February 5, 2010

Cowl Necks and Shawl Necks and Roll Necks! Oh My!


Just what our dearest friend Dorothy felt when going into the forest was approximately what I felt when I stumbled upon YesStyle which describes itself as being "the leading online retailer of Asian fashion products and exclusive lifestyle products from South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China. A good alternative to the anti-gay Urban Outfitters."


What I had been looking for years had finally materialized itself in this online shop. Besides buying shoes, my second hobby/mania is buying interesting and unique sweaters. Sadly, the American market is very much lacking in originality and diversity. Short of buying expensive off-the-runway looks, my only sources for such enjoyment have been Urban Outfitters ( things might change now that I am aware of Urban Outfitter's founder's agenda Boo Richard Hayne!) and Rugby Ralph Lauren.



After spending a couple of hours on YesStyle my Wishlist has grown considerably and I am very excited about showing some of the items I like most to you. The only disadvantage to consider, as a Western Consumer is that most of the items on YesStyle come in One Size or if you're lucky in an M or an L, which I have come to realize are actually S and M. But don't be discouraged, most of the fabrics stretch a bit and buying something that feels a little tight can provide the incentive that you need to work just a little harder at the gym. YesStyle offers Free Shipping on most any items and you can always return an item you don't find to your pleasing.

1. Cowl Neck Long Sleeved Sweater by Newyorkhomme($45)

I especially like the Cowl neck that is made out of two intertwining pieces and the tone-on-tone contrast between the body of the sweater and the cowl neck.


2. Turtleneck Cape with Fingerless Mittens by Peeps ($75)

I like the concept of deconstructing the normal sweater into the body and its sleeves very much. If the weather permits it one could wear a t-shirt and the cape without the sleeves or only with one of the mitten sleeves for extra panache.


3. Hooded Knit Pullover by Deepstyle ($70)

What I like best and look for in a sweater is its ability to make you feel safe and comfortable by means of its warmth and texture. I think this pullover and its rich cowl ,which can be used as a hoodie as well, would make anyone feel all cocooned and shielded from the inclement weather.



4. Dolman Sleeve Oversized Cardigan by Deepstyle ($88)

Attending an American college I often see students walking around in their fleece pants, hoodies and pajamas to class, to the library or to get food. Now I don't want to come off as being over judgemental because I can understand where they are coming from since we all like to feel comfortable whilst we go about our daily activities. For most college students however, this desire trumps over any semblance or care of style as the herd effect takes over being further reinforced by seeing other students doing the same. The following item is what I would personally turn to during those gloomy days when you feel like staying in bed and cuddling with your warm fleece blanket. The loose structure of the cardigan and the purposefully left short sleeves allow for one to maintain their personal bubble and feel comfortable while at the same time looking chic and put together. Paired right this cardigan makes for a great Fall/Spring item.


5. Handkerchief Hem-Hooded Coat by Deepstyle ($98)

PROPORTIONS!...Proportions....proportions? It seems that western designers enjoy being so rigid in their designs or otherwise I cannot explain why there is basically no breath of fresh air as the seasons go by. Yes they change the materials, yes they all change the colours, but in terms of construction and proportions, give or take small changes in tightness, all designers stick to some form of unwritten standard. I can understand the fear of being ridiculed by the ruthless fashion critics but sometimes, if you really believe in your ideas, that first step outside of the box can make it and not break it. That's why I want to applaud the Asian designers for not really caring of what the west has to say and designing what looks good, whatever form it might take. This Handkerchief Coat looks good both untied and tied and the inverted front-tail motif can definitely advantage either a taller person or someone with a less slender physique.



6. Knit Pullover with Sash by Deepstyle ($45)

This last piece is for the ones of you who like to stand out and be inovative through what you wear. One thing I always bemoan with regards to male fashion is the reality of how little we can actually do and change about what we wear compared to the near infinity of possibilities a woman can choose from. The Pullover with Sash does so much into establishing new ground through so little that I knew I had to tell you about it the moment I saw it.




So designers....take a risk, explore that niche in your head that want to come out and let the inspiration and change flow...you'll definitely not be disappointed!