It’s road-trip time. From Boston to Phoenix, behold: a collection of inspiration for your next weekend getaway. Pack the car, turn on some tunes (“Hot town, summer in the city…”), and make way for the highway.

1. Chicago is the place to be when temps soar. Catch a game at Wrigley Field, then cool down in Lake Michigan.

2. Walk The Highline, shop Brooklyn Flea, and go on a pizza tour? Please, take us to New York. Today.

3. Nothing says summer quite like palm trees set against the sunset in Miami’s South Beach.

4. Had enough humidity? Head to the dry heat of Phoenix. Canyons, cacti, and local flavors, like green chili sauce and jerk chicken.

5. And finally, visit Boston – our hometown – for North End cannoli, Newbury Street, and the breezy Public Garden (along with its tulips and swan boats).

Can’t get enough Pinterest inspiration? Check out past boards that caught our eye.

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BY LAUREN DAVID PEDEN/THE FASHION INFORMER

If I had any doubts that New York City is the fashion capital of America, they were laid to rest when I attended the HSFI (High School of Fashion Industries) senior show in Chelsea. The show also honored Ruben and Isabel Toledo, the dynamic duo known for their incredible fashion illustration (him) and fashion design (her).

Founded in 1926, HSFI is the only high school dedicated to fashion studies in the country (and perhaps, the world). The school’s Advisory Board reads like a Who’s Who of industry heavyweights, with folks from Lancôme, Allegri, ICP (International Center of Photography), Mandee, Geneva Watch Group, Saks Fifth Avenue, and The Fragrance Foundation supporting the students and school with materials, mentoring, and money.

Wednesday’s fashion show was a culmination of four years of hard work and study.

“I hope it’s because we’re sincere and we’re independent designers that do our best to uphold the amazing legend that is New York City creativity,” replied Ruben Toledo when I asked why he thought he and Isabel were being honored. “Because New York City is what made us: the streets, the people, the combination of things. So we hope that the kids are infused by that same idea and go forth and conquer!”

“We are a different voice in New York,” added Isabel. “I think it’s important that they see that we’ve been able to succeed in our own way. Fashion is about different voices and the individual, and I think it’s important that we recognize that. You don’t have to come into the business with the same structure as everybody else; you really have to have your own personal voice. And I hope they pick that up.”

It was clear from the runway show, which followed CNN’s Alina Cho presenting the Toledo tribute, that the students had received the message loud and clear.

The show was titled “Continental Couture,” and the students presented their looks in 10 different groupings, beginning with Caribbean Dance Hall Queen sportswear and ending with International Bridal gowns. In between, we were treated to Euro Military denim looks, Middle Eastern Harem lingerie, Latin Flair cocktail frocks, African Career wear, British-inspired street style, Asian eveningwear, and a paean to USA, Hawaii, and Alaskan swimwear, all of which were modeled by HSFI students. Then the music kicked up — “Rah, Rah, ah-ah-ah” — and the kids let loose with a really fun and creative Lady Gaga tribute (or GaGa International, as they called it).

All I can say is: There was a whole lotta talent on display here, and it’s a good thing that Parsons and FIT are just around the corner, because these college-bound fashionistas clearly have a very bright future.

Lauren David Peden writes for Rue La La as a Contributing Editor. ]]> http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2011/06/03/hsfi-honors-ruben-and-isabel-toledo/feed/ 0 http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2010/11/10/designer-inspiration-elaine-turner-on-the-jackie-o-and-more/ http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2010/11/10/designer-inspiration-elaine-turner-on-the-jackie-o-and-more/#comments Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:16:20 +0000 ruelalablog http://www.ruelala.com/blog/?p=2928 BY ELAINE TURNER

We’re all about destination glamour and transporting our customer to a location. And every season, I design collections based on two inspirations: a muse and a place. For Fall 2010, I was inspired by Jackie O. and her years in New York City.

Like New York itself, Jackie O. was multi-dimensional and complex. She expressed her style yet always remained classic, elegant, and timeless. I am fascinated by the legacy of her culture, compassion, and charm.

My personal favorites from the collection:

1. Alexandra Black Croc: A classic vintage clutch for the Jackie O. in us all.
2. Sand Snake Slim Frame Clutch: The perfect travel companion – a wallet by day and sleek clutch by night.
3. Paige Plum Studded Flat: The plum hue of this flat evokes a feeling of royalty, while the studs add some edge.
4. Mel Leopard Velvet: A festive holiday flat with rich enamel hardware.

Jackie O. is and always will be a great American style icon. Grab your dark sunglasses, string of pearls, and white gloves and join us on our Fall 2010 journey!

XO, Elaine

What is my favorite street? Stops along memory lane pop into my head like strobe lights. The coastline along Cinque Terre, its trail through the five towns with the sound of water crushing against the coast. The image of Delhi Polo grounds still fresh with its smell of morning dew. But after my thoughts traveled around the world, they brought me back home, back to New York City.

We were so excited (and incredibly proud) to sponsor the City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Award Luncheon and Yummie Tummie fashion show in NYC. Not only does City of Hope help a great cause, but the event involved a runway show of one of our favorite woman-friendly fashion essentials. Our reporter, Dani Incropera, went behind the scenes to chat with Yummie Tummie designer and founder Heather Thomson and other high-profile stars. Watch our exclusive footage now: