Portfolio of a Fashion Student

Sample of Women's Wear Design. Photoshop. Illustrator. CAD. Original concept, details and fashion illustrations by Erika Valosay

Sample of Mens Wear Design. Photoshop. Illustrator. Original concept, details and fashion illustrations.

Summer Whites

Killer Street Style

Looks I can't wait to recreate! Jak&Jil Blog

How NOT to wear your Missoni for Target

stylecaster.com

American Boy

The other day a friend of mine was headed out for drinks with his buddy. He tried on a couple of outfit options, and settled on a Hugo Boss black button down, crisp blue jeans, and grey Chuck Taylors. Minutes later his friend arrived wearing the exact same thing. Have American men become so lazy that dark jeans, black or brown leather loafers, and a moderately patterned button up is as good as it gets? Guys its time to step it up a notch and break out of this monotonous collection of unimaginative ensembles. As a stylist I understand the importance of ease in menswear, but it has gotten to a point where this effortless three-piece wardrobe has become to look like a dull uniform. Draw some inspiration from European men. Trade in boring denim for colorful slacks. Integrate textural accessories and blazers. Break free from black and brown shoes, instead opt for a printed or neon accented oxford. The days of a button up and jeans are so “I’ll have a Redbull vodka.” Guys we’ve moved on, and it’s time you did too.

Trend Report: Red Candy

Its all about the electric red crop pant right now. A surprising yet traditional burst of color is added to spring outfits with a classic cut and slightly rolled cuff. The red trouser is a great mix of I don’t care I just threw this on this morning, but also polished and clean. It is definitely a buy now item. Here are some links to a few I love in particular. DVF. TOPSHOP. DKNY. 

Head to Toe Perfection

Three different styles and totally unique looks, each resulting in what my opinion is perfection. It has been quite awhile since I have been inspired by a day time street look, but finally these three fantastically chic ladies have broken my fashion drought.

The Updated Trouser

My favorite new way to update a neutral spring wardrobe is with a bold printed pant. Trousers fare especially well with the recycled seventies trend of fruitful and graphic prints. The look might seem a little daunting at first but paired with a basic tee, nude wedges and minimal accessories, it’s a chic ensemble sure to fit right into any girl’s fashion comfort zone. 

Mint Ice Cream

(Chanel Jade Polish: Richard Burbridge New York Times Style)

I have been searching for a new color combo inspiration for spring and at last I found it in the pixie-toned hues that made only a subtle appearance on the runways last fall but a major statement on the streets for the season. It’s almost a chalky washed out mint green, and when paired with basic staples like navy and cream the look is pulled together and brilliantly fresh. Chanel's Jade polish or Alexander Wang's mint mesh combo sweater are the perfect purchases to revive any spring wardrobe.  

The Layering Experts

One of the things I find myself admiring the most in a well-dressed woman is flawless layering. Any woman that can layer and accessorize without looking like a bag lady or Eskimo is my hero. I myself do not layer enough and it is a stylistic thing that I am perpetually working on. Also, living in Southern California the seasonal weather allowance for layering fabulous coats, scarves, and accessories is only a fleeting couple of months out of the year. I have always found myself drawn to street shots from Milan, London, and New York when it comes to fall attire, and I think I have discovered the real draw; sophisticated layering that offers a more complex look with multi dimensions of details. 

Cobalt Components

This liquid electric blue works perfectly as a seasonless neutral and adds a sophisticated pop of color to any outfit. Hat, shoe, jacket or clutch, the streets are swarming with the classic oxide derived hue. I am a huge fan of the floppy hat trend, and what better color to buy a trend piece in then cobalt blue!