FIDM Student Blog: Michelle Smith

Avatar Inspiration

 

    James Cameron's Avatar is perhaps one of the most magnificent films to completely revolutionize the industry. I have already seen it three times...and I could definitely see it again! Truly it is a visual delight, and I feel that it supported my own values about loving and being one with the universe. The phrase, "I see you" is used by the natives and really means, "I see into you", or a way of connecting to another. It's very similar to the phrase "Namaste" used during yoga practices which translates to, "I bow to you" or the acknowledgment of one soul to another. Beautiful, no? :) Even though the movie's Pandora, with all it's dazzling lights and mystical creatures, doesn't exist, there are ways of bringing some of it's beauty into our own life.

Here are some magical ways to embrace the Na'vi lifestyle:

• Go for a run, or hike, in a nature park. Explore the trails and allow your senses to experience nature at it's fullest.

• Practice the art of meditation. Focus on your breath, which is your body's natural way of detoxifying your system. Clear all negativity from your mind and embrace the goodness that surrounds us all.

• To even better your breathing process, start your own garden! It's okay if you don't have a yard, a miniature potted plant will do just fine. Plants breathe in carbon dioxide, (which we breathe out), and breathe out oxygen, (which we breathe in). What a perfect way to balance and purify a room! Extra points if you plant something edible, like herbs or strawberries, so you can bask in your harvests for your own healthy feast! Fred Flare has some adorable herb growing pots, rainboot gardens, and flowers in a can! :)

• Try going 24 hours with no electronics. Cell phones, Twitter, Facebook, and all the other social networking sites and technology have turned human interaction into distant, cold text on a screen. Reconnect and communicate with friends and acquaintances organically and in person.

• Volunteer at a local animal shelter or pound to help those who cannot speak up for themselves. Check out this article on how to find a shelter near you.

• Set up strings of lights in your room (preferably blue, which is a color known for it's calming effect) to create a sort of surreal atmosphere. 

• Go on an adventure! If you're feeling really daring, try something like sky diving or rock climbing! :)

• Allow Pandora to influence your style for a day. Here is a really sweet makeup tutorial that isn't too over the top, but will still catch attention:
  

I see you,
Michelle

Curiouser and Curiouser!

Is it me, or is it that every where you look nowadays, someone is doing something “Alice” inspired? I have said it before, but the Wonderland Fever must be insanely contagious, as it's certainly spreading!

Exhibit A: SyFy's Alice Mini Series

A modern day version of Lewis Carroll's clasic Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass. There are two mini episodes, each two hours long, and I LOVE it! Sure, it isn't your typical Disney story, but in my opinion, they did a splendid job at creating a suspenseful tale, while still being able to create connections to the original story. It was fun being able to catch all the subtle references and details that those who have not read the books wouldn't notice. Plus, the visuals and set designs are stunningly clever. If you haven't seen it yet, I definitely suggest doing so!

Exhibit B: Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland

A more well known adaptation of the childhood tale is the 3D film coming out March 5^th, 2010. I am anxiously anticipating this movie, not only because it looks positively AMAZING, but I find the plot intriguing (which is 19 year old Alice returning to Wonderland and then trying to end the Queen of Heart's tyranny). Do you think there's a way of possibly getting tickets now?...tehe.

Exhibit C: Bergdorf Goodman's “A Compendium of Curiosities”

The Holiday 2009 window display at New York's Bergdorf Goodman was a captivating tribute to Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland. Many of the intricacies were made entirely out of paper or glass. I wish I could see this with my own eyes!!

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

"Tous pour un, un pour tous."

    To those not yet aware, I am a complete history nerd. On days when I have free time you can either find me listening intently to the latest History Channel documentary or flipping through a stack of books at a store. Dozens of historical figures have inspired me with fashion; from Marie Antoinette to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and now my latest fancy: The Three Musketeers.

    The original three musketeers are Athors, Porthos, and Aramis, who were employed as the King of France's bodyguards during the 17th century. d'Artagnan, (who is the main character in the book written by Alexandre Dumas), leaves for Paris in hopes of joining the musketeers. Depending on the version (there are renditions done by Disney to even Barbie), the adventures they embark on vary. I finally got around to purchasing the book so I'll be sure to let you know my opinion~ :)

    Anyway, here are some looks inspired by the faithful band of swordsmen. I feel like the best elements that can be taken for fashion is large feathers, ruffled collars, bouffant skirts/dresses, knee high boots, and gold jewelry. What do you think?

  
   

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

Alice Is the New Black!

If you're a fellow Wonderland fanatic such as myself, you may be aware that Disney Couture is coming out with a clothing and jewelry collection inspired by Tim Burton's upcoming movie in Spring 2010. If you were not aware, get with the program! The Alice obsession is driving everyone deliciously mad and craving all things kooky and nonsensical. Check out the surprise fashion show Disney staged at the MAGIC marketplace in Las Vegas! Love it!

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

Hello, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart; Move over, Marie Antoinette!

First off, let me clarify that I’m not saying Marie Antoinette is pas chic--getting your head chopped off because you were too busy devouring cakes and throwing lavish parties is pretty hardcore, but I’m just saying that it’s time for a new classical fashion icon!

Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock somewhere in Antarctica, you have heard of the legendary prodigy that is Mozart, but I’m not quite sure if many of you are aware of his story. It was as if he was literally born to create musical masterpieces. By age 5 he was already performing for European royalty on numerous instruments, such as the violin and piano, while composing his own work – over 600 pieces in his lifetime! Unfortunately, he passed away at age 35. Can you imagine being so insanely passionate about your art? To have accomplished so much in such a short period of time, doing exactly what you were born to do? That sounds like a full life to me.

His immense lust for his music revived my own for fashion. It’s easy to lose track of your love when you are constantly drilled to improve on skills. Its original appeal may fade and begin to lose its attraction. But fashion is a disease that has infected my soul, and when you are that far gone, there is no cure. I want to make it so that when I am designing garments; it would better be described as molding art sculptures worthy for Gods, not just another mere article of clothing. When you cannot imagine life any other way, when your physical body actually aches with pent up creativity ready to burst – that’s when you know you are infected, and you aren’t even looking for a cure.

If you haven’t seen the movie Amadeus yet, I strongly suggest doing so. (And no, I haven’t seen Marie Antoinette yet, but I’m getting to it eventually!) It may not be 100% historically accurate, but they do a great job of capturing his eccentric brilliance - and the costumes are utterly drool-worthy! (Um, unicorn hats, pastel suits for men, and wigs fitting every fantasy imaginable? Count me in!)

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

The TV Costume Exhibition Opening Party

Hello fellow fashionistas! Do you know what happened Saturday night? The TV Costume Exhibition Opening ceremony at our very own FIDM Museum! And your favorite pink-haired dreamer was there with full-reporter access to get you the inside scoop. (Alas, all work and no play, but I do it all for you! xox.)

The night started off at 5 p.m., and I arrived just as they were gating off the campus. I walked around slightly puzzled as where to go and then it was all a blur of introductions, name repeating, and “Oh darling! Don’t you look FAB-U-LOUS! *air kiss, air kiss*.” (I kid you not!) Finally I got the chance to explore the inside of the gallery and it was truly stunning! Everything was presented on miniature sets where they had mannequins dressed in characters of Emmy nominated costumes for different television shows. They had actual vintage pieces of Chanel that were used in the Coco Chanel Lifetime “docudrama” and Leanne Marshall’s Project Runway collection.

Sets for Gossip Girl, Castle, Dancing with the Stars, No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, and a dozen others were all displayed marvelously. I walked slowly about, eyes wide, desperately trying to take in every detail. We television viewers normally don't get to witness just how intricate all these designs really are.

I was blessed with the opportunity to meet some of these passionate designers in person and asked them what the process of designing for a television show was like. One constant question was: “Is it ever difficult to express your point of view? Are there ever any conflicts?” and each one responded with a general, “No, directors tend to trust your judgment as the designer. After reading the script, if it’s any good, you get a clear image of what the costumes should look like.”

Salvador Perez, the designer for Castle, expressed that because everyone on the show was so close, there was a family atmosphere, making the experience thrilling and worthwhile. Dorothy Amos of Ghost Whisperer made sure to establish her point that aspiring designers need to learn to take their time and truly learn and improve their skills. (A point well taken. Reminder to all FIDM students, including myself: Take a chance to BREATHE. Remember that this is your passion. You are young, so enjoy every step while you can!)

After observing the museum to my heart’s content, I returned outside where the only remaining activity appeared to be mingling with old friends in the industry. Unfortunately, I could not do this as I am eighteen and have yet to develop my industry connections. Of course, I attempted to use charm and wit, but I began feeling more like a wall flower than a reporter now that my job was done. I know right, how can a cupcake princess be awkwardly standing around at a fashionably chic cocktail party? It was disheartening, but I remained optimistic! After making small talk with various people, usually photographers who wanted a picture of my outfit, or someone wanting to compliment my hair, I jotted some notes to remember in my hello kitty notepad and headed out by around 6:30.

Overall, The Outstanding Art of Television Costume Design exhibition is completely spectacular, and I do suggest everyone to head out and see it before it closes!

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

Introducing 1st Quarter Fashion Design Student Michelle Smith

New FIDM Fashion Design Student Michelle Smith starts classes at FIDM's Los Angeles campus this week, but she's been a fan of FIDM for a long time. Read on to find out what inspires Michelle and get a glimpse into her creative mind. Plus: Watch this space for her weekly blog posts about her FIDM experience!

Who's your favorite Designer?
 *Sigh* Where to begin? Betsey Johnson, Chanel, and Christian Dior are obviously in my top favorites, but I also love Marchesa, Erin Fetherston, Gareth Pugh, Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Luella, and so many others that I'll probably kick myself later for forgetting!

 

What trend are you loving right now?
For me it's all about the dramatic, over the top styles: Huge bows, intense makeup, layers of tulle dresses, etc.

Who is your style icon and why?
Marilyn Monroe, because she represents timeless glamor. Dita Von Teese is a perfect combination of classy and sexy. Lady Gaga, simply because she isn't afraid to just go for it!

 What is your dream fashion purchase? Oh my, once again... where to begin? Luella's Spring 2009 RTW collection (Yes, in its entirety), Christian Louboutin heels, Tarina Tarantino accessories, Betsey Johnson dresses... the list goes on.

What is the most beloved item in your wardrobe? A lingerie-inspired dress found in a vintage store. It's full of sparkles and pink ruffles... and I'm wearing it right now.

You're spending an afternoon shopping in the city of your choice. What's the city and itinerary? Tokyo, Japan. Preferably in the Harajuku and Lolita neighborhoods where I can find all kinds of rainbow goodies to adorn my wardrobe. I'd spend the day going in and out of stores, trying eccentric looking treats, and taking photos of all the wild street styles.

If you could own the wardrobe of any film or TV character whose would it be?
Audrey Hepburn in just about any of her movies, but especially in How To Steal a Million... and of course Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girl!

The ultimate accessory is...
You can pull off anything you want if you're flaunting a gorgeous, genuine smile!

How did you hear about FIDM? My mother went to FIDM, so I grew up knowing it was going to be the school I'd attend as well.

How did you know that FIDM was the right college for you?
Fashion is a life force that flows through my veins. FIDM encourages creative freedom, which is a huge MUST for me. Not to mention, I didn't mind staying in California just a little bit longer :)

Describe how you felt when they told you that you were accepted?
Unbelievably exhilarated! I was running around and screaming inside my head while trying to maintain cool demeanor on the outside. It was definitely a huge relief to be officially accepted into my dream school.

What part of starting FIDM are you most looking forward to?
Getting the chance to be exposed to the real aspects of the industry. Everyone at FIDM is actually part of the fashion world, and they supply so much information and opportunities in getting ahead, so I just know I will be well prepared.

What do you expect to gain from attending FIDM?
I expect to gain the knowledge of both the business and technical aspects of fashion. This is something I have literally wanted ALL my life, therefore I expect this to be my chance to improve on my skills and learn some new ones. Also, it's a marvelous opportunity to create connections with fellow peers and the FIDM faculty.

What is your ultimate career goal after graduating from FIDM?
Designer of my own couture house, creating clothing for women who aren't afraid to stand out! Clothes are a chance to express yourself, your emotions, your visions. Why settle for ho hum and boring when you can surround yourself in luxurious wonder?

What should potential students do in high school to prepare for a future at FIDM? Do your research, don't get lazy, and stay informed about what's going on so you can set up your interviews, tours, etc. right away. The more organized the better!

What advice would you give to students looking to be accepted into FIDM? BE YOU! The beauty of this industry is that it celebrates individuality. You're not going to get far if you're okay with blending in and accepting the status quo. If you want to be accepted into FIDM, let that beautiful you shine and your passion be your biggest motivation to never give up.