Real Style Network has been following all of the action from Paris Fashion Week and we have waited to bring you the highlights and reviews from the top shows. Paris Fashion Week is THE event of the season with the biggest names in fashion presenting their Fall/Winter 2010 collections on the runway. For our first wrap up we have chosen the following designers: Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Jean Paul Gaultier.

CHANEL

In one of the most talked about shows of the week, Karl Lagerfeld imported a 265-ton iceberg from Sweden into the middle of Paris’ Grand Palais for the Chanel Fall 2010 show. The –4 temperatures needed to allow the iceberg to be the centerpiece of the set accentuated the cozy Chanel collection shown. Unlike other designers this season, Karl Lagerfeld chose to use faux fur in the Chanel collection. There was a lot of it. Full body fur coats, pants and boots were all a part of the collection. Leather jackets, miniskirts and shirts were trimmed with more faux fur. Are you going to be wearing a fur skirt on the street? Perhaps not, but the message for next season from top designers is definitely soft and furry, would look great in a vest, boots, hats and even bags.

LOUIS VUITTON

For Fall 2010, Marc Jacobs was inspired by old cinema when he created the Louis Vuitton collection. He cast curvy supermodels like Elle Macpherson, Bar Refaeli and Adriana Lima to model the clothes. Tweed suits and wool and chiffon dresses with nipped in waists appeared in the collection. Jacobs accentuated the models’ curves with tight corsets and hip hugging skirts. Skirts were ¾ length made of heavy materials. It was a ladylike collection following trends we have seen in Christian Dior and Marc Jacobs’ own collection. Of course, as it is Louis Vuitton, the handbags were exquisite. Marc Jacobs reinvented the classic Louis Vuitton Speedy bag with sequins, lace and fur. Watch the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2010 fashion show here:

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

Jean Paul Gaultier took his inspiration for this season from cultures around the world. Hints of styles from Morocco, Russia, Greece, China and more could be seen in his designs for fall. Gaultier told the Telegraph, “It’s all about a journey around the world, and sometimes it includes several countries in one outfit, even Europe.” The styles included African headdresses, Chinese silks, European embroidery, Mongolian furs and Spanish dresses. He combined these things with modern street wear like sweatpants, knitted sweaters, pea coats and leather jackets.

[photos via Marie Claire Au, Kari Estrada, and Jimshe809]

In lighter fashion news today, there has been a huge buzz on the Internet about the new Instant Uplift Bra that hit the shelves at  Tesco in Britain today.

The new Instant Uplift Bra has no cups or under wire and promises to increase the bust by a full size without surgery.  The product comes in a a wide range of sizes and can be worn with a traditional bra underneath. The Instant Uplift Bra claims to enhance the appearance of your bust size naturally by giving the chest a dramatic lift and creating cleavage.  You can see the photos and read more on the story in this Telegraph  article. In addition to a fuller bust ,apparently the miraculous invention even encourages you to stand up straighter therefore promoting good posture. What’s not to like?

There is no immediate news as to when and where the product will be sold in North America ,but you can always buy it online and have it shipped.  (Or just wait for Victoria’s Secret to come out with their own version).

You really have to love the Brits to come up with this new ‘invention’. Our writers have a lot of fun finding out about  new and zany beauty and fashion news coming from Britain. We already told you about how many British ladies adore their makeup and beauty products . And why not? Many have great skin to show for it. If  it’s product claims are even half true, the Instant Uplift Bra will surely be a big success as well and a lot of British ladies are about to become very ‘curvy’ indeed.

For over 25 years, John Galliano has battled tough times to become what some consider to be one of the most influential fashion designers of our day, literally changing the clothes we wear.

Born in 1960, Galliano knew he had found his place when he arrived in the fashion world. The young daring designer didn’t waste any time getting attention. He graduated from St Martin’s College of Art and Design in 1984 and his first collection, Les Incroyables, inspired by the French Revolution, was bought by the London boutique Brown’s and completely sold out.

He continued and showed his first line at Paris Fashion Week in 1989. His vision often combining historical costume with a contemporary edge. The rave reviews he got were not without hardship. His label, Galliano, almost went bankrupt numerous times. Supermodels waived their fees to work with the designer. Yet it wasn’t until Anna Wintour took the fashion designer under her wing and introduced him to financial backers that the line became stable.

Eventually the Galliano fashion line was taken in by LVMH (one of the world’s largest luxury goods companies), a move that would forever change John Galliano’s life. In 1995, LVMH named Galliano the designer for Givenchy. This was the first time a British fashion designer would head up a French couture house. One year later, John Galliano would step up into one of the most prestigious roles in the fashion world. He was named designer for Christian Dior, a post he still holds.

He is known for his superb fashion shows that transport the audience to wherever he wants them to go. John Galliano changed the way we see clothes today, by insisting that the designs be cut closer to the body. While his clothes off the rack may be extravagant, his designs have influenced the styles today.

John Galliano has been awarded for his vision and skill on numerous occasions and he keeps striving for more. Through this decade, Galliano has expanded his fashion line to include bags, shoes, lingerie, fragrances and menswear. Between Dior and his own lines, Galliano currently creates six couture and ready-to-wear fashion lines and one mid-season collection each year.

John Galliano showed a luxurious collection for Fall 2010 at Paris Fashion Week, inspired by nomadic, warrior women. Voluminous, chiffon gowns, silk trousers and tulle gowns appeared on the runway. Fur was very prevalent in the collection, as we have seen before. Models wore huge headpieces of fur and feathers. Colours began in earthy tones, but opened up to include jewel tones and pastels. Trends of layering, draping and oversized clothing continued in Galliano’s fashion show.

John Galliano’s wildly romantic and often outrageous imagination is all his own. And it’s that untethered sense of fantasy and drama that has made him the most influential fashion designer of his generation. – Time

[photo of John Galliano courtesy of pr photos, Galliano Spring/Summer 2010 photos courtesy of Galliano]

The final collection by late fashion designer Alexander McQueen was shown to a small exclusive group at Paris Fashion Week yesterday.

The final 16 Alexander McQueen looks were shown at the Hôtel de Clermont-Tonnerre, the headquarters of Francois Pinault, who owns majority shares in the McQueen brand.

The final uncompleted collection was hand draped by the designer. The pieces were luxurious in rich gold, red and black colours. The garments were beautifully embroidered and accessorized with feathers and stained glass jewelry. According to this article the fashion looks were reminiscent of pre-1800’s art. Works of arts were captured on the fabric used in the collection. There was a strong religious iconography within the clothes.

The mood in the room was said to be somber and spooky. Models walked slowly to the same opera music Alexander McQueen listened to while he created the pieces. The Telegraph reports once the last look passed through the room an aide whispered, “There is no more.”

We wait now to find out what will happen to the Alexander McQueen brand. The company has said that it will continue on. Rumour was designer Gareth Pugh would step in at Alexander McQueen but Pugh released a statement saying he is not in talks to become the Creative Director for Alexander McQueen at this time.

The death of Alexander McQueen has shaken up the fashion world. His death came as New York Fashion Week began putting a dark cloud over the event. Since that time many have paid tribute to the designer. See Real Style Network’s coverage of Alexander McQueen fashion and news here.

[photo via tu_ly]

Joe Zee, creative director of Elle magazine, has inspired this post with his Twitter fashion advice on the hottest upcoming summer trends.

Joe Zee on summer trends:  I’m loving pleated shorts, rolled up, gladiator sandals, loose tanks and t’s. And anything sporty!

Joe Zee on the boyfriend jacket:  I love it with something sexy & feminine: a mini, skinny or wide-leg jeans, vintage t.

Check out Real Style Network sporty summer trend picks, inspired by Elle’s creative director :

1. Embrace your sporty side with our Polo Ralph Lauren Skinny Fit Polo Shirt ($182.00). A Ralph Lauren polo is a classic and a staple in every wardrobe. In this fun resort orange everyone will know you have arrived.

2. Get these Spoon Jean Pleated Shorts ($24.50) for the warmer weather. These stretch jean shorts will be comfortable for any day outing this summer. They come in black, olive and camel to give your wardrobe a little variety.

3. This Heart Clear Oversized Tank ($99.00) is perfect for any hot day. The big comfortable style will look great on the beach over your swimsuit. It also comes in white and has a variety of different prints.

4. Dazzle with the Mariella Heel ($77.39). Gladiator sandals are going to be everywhere this summer so find a unique pair. These four-inch heels have a faint snake print on them for interest. You will love going out every night in these.

5. You can’t go wrong with this Sharagano Studio Boyfriend Jacket ($14.99). For under $20, you can have a jacket for any cool summer night. This jacket is even lined with a cute leopard print to show off your style.

6. Spoil yourself with this Vanessa Bruno Athé Marine Shortsleeve Knit-Top ($169.00). Oversized t-shirts don’t have to be boring. This knit-top has a flattering v-neck, button detailing on the side and an asymmetric hemline so it stands out from those other regular shirts.

7. If you need casual sneakers, find something with some style like these Ed Hardy Lowrise Glitter Shoes ($85.00). Their design is beautiful and funky. They have a laceless style and a satin top.

8. Add these J. Brand Pencil Skinny Jeans ($158.00) to your closet. A skinny jean has become a wardrobe staple. These jeans are a pick of celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe, so we know they will look great all summer.

9. For a sporty look right off of the runway, get this Alexander Wang Striped Cropped Cotton T-shirt ($395.00). This perforated shirt shows off your skin and your style. Pair it with your low-rise pleated shorts and you are ready to go.

10. Add a new mini to your closet with our B. Stylish Mini Skirt ($75.00). This stretch jersey mini will be comfortable on those hot sticky summer days. The draped front ruffle is a stylish update to the mini.

11. For a day of walking try our Tells Sandal ($45.00). These sandals are bright, colourful and comfortable. The leather straps are all adjustable for your comfort on a day around town.

Fashion house Ungaro showed at Paris Fashion Week yesterday without the input of their “artistic advisor” Lindsay Lohan sparking rumours she has been fired.

After just one season it appears that Lindsay Lohan has not been asked to return to her role at Ungaro. Asim Abdullah, the owner of Ungaro, told WWD she wasn’t involved in the fall/winter 2010 collection shown in Paris.

Lindsay Lohan is in Paris for fashion week, but she didn’t even attend the Ungaro show as a spectator. Some speculated that Lindsay Lohan wasn’t invited. Chief designer Estrella Archs took her bow at the end of the show alone.

Lindsay Lohan’s fashion debut for Ungaro back in October was a disaster for the company. Many buyers didn’t purchase the collection. The company continued to stand by Lindsay even when Emanuel Ungaro himself spoke out against the collaboration. The man who hired Lindsay, CEO Mounir Moufarrige left Ungaro in December amidst rumours that he couldn’t work with her.

There has been no official word on whether Lindsay Lohan has been let go.

Khloe Kardashian is wearing the rocker chic look that is so popular for right now.

Khloe Kardashian’s tucked jeans into the over the knee boot, is a great way to wear that style of boot. The Furry vest ( faux fur)has been popularized by Rachel Zoe and gives instant cool factor to even the plainest outfit. Accessorize with a studded hobo bag and an interesting ring and voila, you are sporting rocker chic! Here is how to get Khloe Kardashian’s look for less:

1. Channel Rachel Zoe with this Faux Fur Vest ($29.99). It is fully lined and will keep you warm through the spring.

2. Stock up on the basics with this Crew-Neck Raglan Tee ($14.50). This three-quarter-length sleeve shirt is slightly sheer and very comfortable. Basic black tees are a staple in any wardrobe.

3. Not all of us are as lucky as Khloe Kardashian to have a basketball player husband giving us big diamond engagement rings. That doesn’t mean you can’t have diamonds of your own. Buy yourself a White Enamel & Diamond Floral Ring ($95.00).

4. Copy Khloe Kardashian with a pair of Legend Zoe Skinny Jeans ($119.00). The dark wash, straight leg and slim fit of these jeans will make you look taller and feel beautiful.

5. Get a Steve Madden Bstarlet Hobo Handbag ($98.00) for toting your things around town in style. The pink studded design adds to the rocker chic style Khloe Kardashian has.

6. Our Report Signature Harper Boot ($134.99) is a fashion must-have. They are not only stylish fashion, but they also have a low heel so they are comfortable to wear on a day around town.

Wow, the Oscars have become as much about the fashion as they are about the movies.  After ending up on many of the ‘worst dressed’ for the Oscars fashion lists ,actress Charlize Theron felt that she had to defend her choice of the much criticized Christian Dior Oscar gown .

When asked about the dress by US Magazine Charlize Theron had only one thing to say: “I just loved this dress!”

Despite her love for the strapless purple Dior gown fashion critics and bloggers didn’t offer her any sympathy. E Online said: Yep, those are her lady lumps wrapped in lilac rosettes, courtesy of Dior Haute Couture. This one’s going down in the history books… The Vancouver Sun said: There will lots of giggling in the week to come at Charlize Theron, whose Dior gown had rosettes on the breasts bordering on the burlesque.

While Charlize Theron’s red carpet Dior gown wasn’t on our best dressed list, it is not the worst gown we have seen. The critics should lighten up.

Do you like Charlize Theron’s Oscars gown?

[photo via Dawn del Russo]

At Real Style Network we loved the following Red Carpet Gowns at last night’s Academy Awards.

Here are our winners for the fashion Oscars:

Sandra Bullock in a stunning silver form fitting Marchesa gown. We also loved her with darker hair and red lipstick, her skin was flawless as well. The Best Actress also wins the best dressed.

Jennifer Lopez took a chance on this pale pink/mauve Armani Prive dress. We loved it, but it definitely had its fashion critics.

Kate Winslet looks elegant and fit in a gray corseted Yves Saint Laurent and finally we loved what Helen Mirren wore, the light gray crystal adorned dress suited her perfectly and was very elegant. Finally a very slim, Demi Moore looked stunning in her Atelier Versace nude colored strapless fitted bodice dress with ruffled bottom.

Huffington Post added Charlize Theron in a purple strapless Christian Dior gown and Diane Kruger in a nude and black ruffle Chanel dress to their best dress list. Elle Magazine loved Avatar star Zoe Saldaga’s sparkling purple Givenchy Couture gown. People Magazine included Cameron Diaz’s gold Oscar de la Renta and Rachel McAdams’ pastel Elie Saab haute couture gown on their best dressed list.

[photos via Dawn DelRusso and Prestige Mag]

Diane Von Furstenberg is making a move to interior design. The fashion designer is decorating 20 rooms and suites for Claridge’s in London. WWD reports Diane Von Furstenberg has a long history of staying at the hotel. She calls it “the most glamorous hotel in the world.” No details have been released on how her style will translate into room decor. The Diane Von Furstenberg rooms at Claridge’s are expected to be revealed in June.

Project Runway winner Christian Siriano is returning to television with his own special. ‘Christian Siriano: Having a Moment’ will air on Bravo on Monday, April 5th. He is one of the few Project Runway designers who has made a big name for himself in the fashion world. He has dressed celebrities like Rihanna and Christina Hendricks. Christian Siriano’s special will give fans a backstage look at his line from start to finish including him balancing his personal life with work.

The Lady Dior Saga starring Marion Cotillard continues with a new video released this week. Marion shows off her singing talents in a video where she plays Lady Rouge. Marion Cotillard sings Franz Ferdinand’s “Eyes of Mars” in a romantic hotel room and a large empty theatre. The Dior video was directed by Jonas Akerlund, who has made music videos for Madonna and U2. The video was supposed to debut along with the new Dior collection on March 5th, but was leaked online early. Watch the video here: