All over the runways this season you have noticed-perhaps reluctantly-the resurrection of our baby-boomer parents’ favorite fashion trend: the infamous tie-dye. Only to be rivaled by hypercolor (which I am sure we are all happy has not made a resurgence), the new tie dye is youthful, witty, and delightful. While it appears the skill of any 7-year-old hillbilly boy could have created these garments, truth be told, couture designers around the globe are re-releasing this piece of cultural Americana. From gradient dresses to ombre (French for “shaded”) tunics, the color contrast and washing effect of dyed garments are a visual delight. Louis Vuitton, Nina Ricci, Matthew Williamson and Behnaz Sarafpour, are each infusing their traditional version of red carpet glamour with dip dye treatments. Far out.

These days ’tis just as impressive for a designer to be simplistic as to be overly-designed. Abaete’s Laura Poretzky’s strength lies in her ability to create beautiful garments that read SIMPLE, STYLISH, CONFIDENT. Known for circle skirts, straight-fit pencil skirts, and minimilist-chic, this is a refreshing departure from the busy-ness of her contemporaries.

Rarely ever have muted tones of grey, navy, pewter and creams looked so alluring. Looking for a basic style-staple? We recommend you try something from the affordable Abaete’s collection.

Hint hint: if you are looking for the sexy shoe counterpart, Payless now sells an exclusive Abaete footwear line.

Happy Hunting!

Credited for being the man who brought us the modern-day women’s suit, Yves Saint Laurent is truly a genius who was far ahead of his time. Annie Hall can take a cue from this innovator-the designer who made androgyny chic and who brought a heated rivalry to Coco Chanel’s love of the dinner jacket with his famed Smoking Suit. In his debut 1966 collection, YSL turned the fashion world upside down with his provocative exploration of gender roles, and his probing eye towards redefining what is sexy in a new era. Helmut Newton then immortalized this legendary female tuxedo suit in his famous photographs (pictured below). Ashley Olsen and Kate Moss are a few contemporary celebs that have attempted to pull of this avante-garde look, but I think its safe to say Catherine Deneuve was the original femme fatale. Hats off to Mr. Laurent–a man who had the good sense to know that women always wear the pants.

In 2003, Vincent introduced her line Twelfth Street named after the urban LA jungle she calls home. From Europe to NYC to Hollywood Cynthia’s designs are about as sought after as non fat frozen yogurt on a hot afternoon in sororitiesville. Staples such as the silk crepe de chine slips, velvet boudoir jackets and luxurious cashmere sweaters and perfect-fit trousers are always right on the mark. Staying current and fresh is not easy for any competitive designer– LA darling Cynthia has got staying power.

Diane Von Furstenberg. The name is synonymous with the emblematic wrap dress of the 1970’s. Launched in 1972, and only 4 years later DVF had sold millions of the signature wrap dress. With her motto, “feel like a woman, wear a dress,” Miss Diane had revolutionized not only the dress, but the apparel retail industry itself. With 22 free-standing DVF boutiques around the globe, Diane has turned her dress empire into a global fashion phenomenon. Buying and owning a DVF dress-wrap, column, mini, empire, or any other insists you are an informed, stylish, savvy, and classic female of any age or style. Notoriously for being “gone in 60 seconds,” once you find that fits-so-perfect summer diddy DVF dress, DO NOT - I repeat - DO NOT let it go. Trust me.

I choose Venus. Unequivocally. Although a pocket rocket might bring immediate gratification,Pocket Venus has longevity, and coolness for miles.

London designer Jane Troughton officially launched this Brit-chic line at London Fashion Week in February 2003. With their “bespoke prints, intriguing embellishments, and luxurious linings” we think you’ll agree this is no average design collection. Walking the tightrope between indy cult favorite and widespread fandom, you can spot a Pocket Venus miles away.

Ladies Ladies Ladies! White is once again making huge waves on the runway this season. In fact, if it was up to me I would be white-clad 24/7. I’m sure you have heard the age-old adage that you should never wear white after Labor Day. Well, I strongly disagree. Who came up with that senseless rule anyway? As any man will tell you, and any mirror will confirm, white is the sexiest, coolest color you could ever choose to shroud yourself in. An understated pair of crisp and clean tailored white pants, or an off-white colored camisole adds the slightest touch of confidence and class to any outfit.

Don’t get me wrong here, black has its time and place in the wardrobe, but ah, nothings better than a White Hot fashionista in classic jet-set style any time of day or year. If you are white-averse or afraid to jump into a head-to-toe white astronaut ensemble, start off your collection simply with these fresh and AFFORDABLE Lavish Threads store favorites.