Daniel Vosovic's Blog

Just Because You Can...

July 26, 2006

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“Because you can, doesn’t mean you should” is a personal mantra of mine that I like to live by. Opportunity presents itself in everyone’s life, sometimes, at the most inopportune times, what you do with it is your choice. I can make this superficial and talk about how spandex is a privilege and not a right, or could take the deep, more meaningful route and discuss life-changing predicaments in my life that I’ve chosen, at one time or another, to either address or ignore. For now, I’m going where my heart has, and always will lie, with fashion of course….

Last week I had the pleasure of dining with one of my best friends Anna at a delightful bistro on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, and then having one of those fulfilling two-hour long cappuccinos while sitting on a park bench, watching fellow New Yorkers go about their evening activities. For those of you that know me well, you’re aware of my obsession to people watch: in the park, at the airport, on the street, anywhere! Whether it’s the designer in me simply observing what surrounds me -- or the young kid deep inside that goes towards every bright, shiny object I see -- is completely unknown to me, I just know that I love to do it!

Needless to say, at times I can become a bit distraught by how people are torturing their poor bodies -- and my eyes -- with some of the horrid garments that they choose to cover their beautiful selves with! Which reminds me, I am always receiving compliments like “I would love to wear your clothing, but I don’t look like a model” …blah, blah, blah nonsense! I hate when people think they have to be 6 ft tall and rail thin to look good – c’mon guys, use a little creativity! I’m a big believer in learning what looks good on your body and then sticking to variations of that. Trends are a hard thing to attach oneself to because, 1) They’re gone before you know it and 2) Since when is one style of dress/pant/skirt meant for six different body shapes? That being said, please take what I say next with careful consideration and think, “Is that me?” because I guarantee that these fashion mistakes are still being made even on the streets of one of greatest fashion capitals in the world!

Fashion No-Nos!

1) Sneakers with suits. My heart breaks a little every time I see this horrific act! I understand that heels all day can wear even the strongest woman down, but nothing is more of a turn-off than a polished woman in a nice skirt suit, topped off with some obnoxious white sneakers. There are plenty of alternatives out there, think Audrey Hepburn for example, a simple, comfortable pair of flats can keep you looking chic while giving your arches a much-needed rest. Besides, these pack a lot easier into your bag than a pair of bulky sneakers that would also weigh your back down when carrying them -- efficient and fashionable!
danielv_audrey2_240x320.jpg

2) High-waisted pants. Please, please, please have someone take a photo of you from the back and try to tell me that you look good! Think about it, a pair of trousers or jeans that reaches your belly button is adding about seven inches to your rear-end view, as well as accentuating that little bulge under your belly. Why bring additional focus by tucking in your shirt, it’s like covering it with a big sign that says, “Look at me!” A mid-rise pant is ideal for almost every woman, regardless of age or size, and almost always flatters your figure by visually bisecting the negative area, instead of visually enlarging it.
danielv_highwaisted_240x320.jpg

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Comments

Rachel wrote:

Hey Daniel,
You were really great on the show. Not only are you a great designer, but you were really nice to the other designers, which really stood out. I was just wondering how you got started with fashion. I'm a sophomore in highschool and I live in a small city in western NY. There's not much fashion opportunity here and I don't know if I would be good enough. I was wondering if you could give me any advice about how to get started, if you get a chance. Thanks.
~Rachel

posted at July 26, 2006 02:11 PM

Cat wrote:

Hey Daniel, me again. I know what you mean about people watching. I don't know why, but I love it to. Not in a stalkery way though, which I'm sure is not the way you do it either. THANK YOU FOR HIGHLIGHTING THE EVER GROWING SOCKS AND SANDALS TREND! I have been campaigning for years to rid the earth of "shoebies" but my availing attempt was, sadly, in vain. Sigh. Maybe now that a notably fashionable up and coming icon has discussed the importance of this tragic case, we will see a decrease in undesired shoes and sandals.

posted at July 26, 2006 03:09 PM

miss sarah wrote:

i hate it when i can see bra straps poke out the side of a cami or tank top; those clear plastic straps being the worst. and no worries about my wearing sneakers with a suit. i wear various pairs of stilettos across campus at least three times per week.

posted at July 26, 2006 09:20 PM

chinni wrote:

an excellent entry from a witty man.

posted at July 26, 2006 10:02 PM

Tina wrote:

I can really relate with the sneakers and high-waisted pants and ill-fitted clothing, when i see the people dressed like that on the street my heart bleed for them..=(

Hope you survive well in the heat!

keep making fabulous dresses!

posted at July 26, 2006 10:48 PM

Ana wrote:

First of all: Project Runway just aired here in Brazil, and I MUST say that you are the cutest, sweetest, most talented boy of brazilian cable television. Love your designs, love your ideas, love your hair, love you.

And second: here in Brazil SOMEBODY said women can wear their boot on top of their pants, like horseback riders. It really hurts my eyes, seriouslly...

posted at July 27, 2006 12:20 AM

Ana wrote:

First of all: Project Runway just aired here in Brazil, and I MUST say that you are the cutest, sweetest, most talented boy of brazilian cable television. Love your designs, love your ideas, love your hair, love you.

And second: here in Brazil somebody said women can wear their boot on top of their pants, like horseback riders. It really hurts my eyes, seriouslly...

posted at July 27, 2006 12:22 AM

Kristen wrote:

for the longest time, i only wore what i liked, and never actually thought about what flattered my body type. many women never really think about that at all. i see the high wasted pants far too often. lots of women don't realize it's accentuating belly bulge, not hiding it. i'm just starting to develop an interest in fashion and i have learned so much from you. you are truly inspiring. i know you must hear that a lot, but i just wanted you to know that i absolutely love your blog and i hope you keep writing here. i think you're an amazing designer and i can't wait to see your future work.

posted at July 27, 2006 01:41 AM

Robin wrote:

Hi Daniel:

I'm a stay at home mom in NJ who absolutely adores you! "Project Runway" is the most interesting show on television; where else can you see how people create? Your designs were my favorite, and I was disappointed you didn't win.

What struck me most about you was how caring you were to everyone on the show. In a competitive arena, you were able to compete and be kind at the same time, a rarity. You must have had great confidence in your talent.

I wish you the very best always!

posted at July 27, 2006 06:22 AM

Whitney wrote:

Daniel, Daniel, Daniel! Love you and those fashion tips up top should be published! People NEED to know these things, and use them in everyday life. Where I live fanny packs are still an issue so you can only imagine how I feel! Anyway, I love your sense of fashion and your season of project runwat was really what lit a fire under me to start designing, clothes anyway. I do hair and am always designing new color patterns and cuts. Fashion is in my blood so in the Spring I will be attending FIDM in San Francisco. I just want to THANK you for being fabulous and inspiring to do/be more in life!

posted at July 27, 2006 08:37 AM

Angela wrote:

You were my favorite designer of all the season of project runway. I loved your clothes, your attitude, everything about you! You really understand a woman's body. I just want to thank you for inspiring me in so many ways after watching you on the show. Thanks so much!
-Angela
P.s. My dad does the socks and sandals thing... its awful.

posted at July 27, 2006 10:09 AM

Tee wrote:

I was scheming thru the web to avoid work and I stumbled upon your blog. That's cool, I liked your stuff on PR. I thought your points were on, but I gotta tell u some fashion gurus think that high-waisted pants are back and so are leggings. However, I don't want to see it. I love your work, but sweetie I gotta tell you, I've been to Italy and not every woman there is stylish and polished. Although I agree with the sneakers and suits comment (enuf!), take it from me wearing heels on cobblestone st is a killer. Seek a cool alt like flats/trendy sleek stylish kicks (like i just got from nordstrom). Fashion doesn't always have to be painful, that's what waxing is for. Luv ya!

posted at July 27, 2006 11:58 AM

Elizabeth wrote:

HI DANIEL! Those are some nice fashion tips, god knows people over here need them...
I'm trying to find a certain style for myself but I'm not sure how. Can you help me? It would be much appreciated! (I'm a bit of a rocker chick but I like to wear colors as long as it's not pink or yellow!)
Great job on you designs and I wish you the best of luck!!!!

posted at July 27, 2006 01:00 PM

Brian Santoro wrote:

Hiza, Daniel! I just checked out your blog for the first time, and enjoyed what you had to say! I don't have any real objections to your opinions, because I actually agree with the lot of them; but I just wanted to say that watching you throughout season two has inspired me. I always had an interest in fashion and design, but never really persued it, so thanks for doing what you do! You've helped take my hobby of sketching fashion designs to new heights! Oh, by the way, my co-worker Kenny M. mentioned to me about a month ago that he bumped into you & your "gentleman caller" somewhere and I freaked! I'm your #1 fan! Stay fierce and classy!
- Brian

posted at July 27, 2006 01:23 PM

Yuna wrote:

daniel, u r a FANTASTIC desginer. when i would watch the show, i would always look foward to what you would design. you have a creative edge that some designers dont have. i look up to u cuz you are very inspirational to me and others.

THANK YOU FOR BEING THE BEST

posted at July 27, 2006 02:18 PM

Brooks wrote:

hey daniel, my big problem is that im about 6' and muscle-bound, but the clothes i like are skinny clothes (obviously because I've always wanted to be the skinny guy, but always have been the buff guy)... another tragedy is the fact that I have a 34 waist but my legs have grown so muscular that I can't fit into less than a 38 in pants without the seem of the pants (well jeans) almost bursting... what cut of pants do you recommend... I can't let myself buy relaxed fit because I am not at all thuggish, instead what I like to think as quite fashionable... what do you think?

sidenote: I just bought your season of Proj. Runway... aiieeee

posted at July 27, 2006 07:43 PM

Abby wrote:

Hey Daniel!
i just wanted to say that your my favourite designer! you are really talented, you are so different and unique in your designs, and you are my rolemodel, i truly look up to you and how you can create all these awesome designs, with an edge. im only thirteen and im hoping to be like you when i grow up, that is a designer of course (:
but your the best!
and your opinions on life and fashion, are really meaningful, they make sense. and it gives me good tips and inspiration. Hmm your latest post, i ADORE Audrey Hepburn, she is really a timeless beauty. she is so classy and her fashion sense are the best, i really really look up to her.
haha anyway, i gotta run.
keep it up!
you rock, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING YOU'VE DONE! you really are the best!! and thanks for being such a great rolemodel to me! I LOVE YOU, ill support u in everything you do, hope you stay happy, annnnndd keep those FABULOUS desings coming,

dont ever quit what you're doing, you're the best at it, and really talented, ill support you all the way.

posted at July 28, 2006 02:43 AM

Edarra wrote:

Words of wisdom, words of wisdom! Hopefully now that YOU'RE cracking down on the fashion no-nos more people will listen!

I must admit that I am one of the people skeptical of wearing your designs (or other gorgeous designs) because I felt I didn't fit the bill, but not anymore! There are all kinds of people and bodies, and hell, we all look good in SOMETHING!

I only hope you keep up with this blogging thing, because I really love it! Your commentary is funny, interesting and fashion-forward. Until the next entry, ne?

posted at July 29, 2006 11:21 AM

Jaxx wrote:

Good points as always! I wish I had more time to people watch, I'm glad you're out there on the
J-O-B! I don't like baggy jeans, dickies, and I'm getting tired of the "I wanna be baller" look of rockin'a team jersey set. I like guys to look nice and clean cut, with a touch of class. I miss the days of starched pants with creases and cordinated polo tops and loafers. I'm not feelin' the "I just got out of bed look"...keep the blog goin' and help us all Daniel!!! Save the world! bless us with fashion sense :)

posted at July 30, 2006 03:50 PM

Brooks wrote:

DANIEL! this is urgent....

Okay, so I know I've already commented on this entry, but I'm doing it again...
So I'm going to be in New York from Aug 8-11th on a road trip with my friends before we go off to college (well, not a roadtrip for me, I'm flying) but anywho... So I'm getting there considerably earlier than them and since they're all straight I want to do some shopping before they get there... SO here's the situation...

I would love for you to shed some of your extensive fashion knowledge as to where I might do some not-so-expensive (college budget) shopping that still looks high fashion (keep in mind my last comment where I stated that I'm average height and stocky-muscley)... Anywho, I have some time to kill on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons because all I have scheduled is going to Broadway in Bryant Park on Thursday...

I don't know if you reply to these or not, but you or anyone else who lives in NYC feel free to email me at parislover87@yahoo.com

posted at July 31, 2006 05:29 PM

Sebastian wrote:

That comment about the high-waisted pants just made me fell of my chair. I do agree with you, they are just about the nastiest thing i've ever seen my whole life. Ya know what's worse? Guys that wear their pants 2 sizes too small and have the nerve to ask you to stick your fingers in their pants as if those pants are too big on them. Gross! Yes, i'm a stylist/personal shopper.

BTW, my bf loves you! he was crush that you didn't win.... I was extra happy when Chloe won, just 'cuz i'm Laotian as well.

Keep up the good work!

XX
Seb

posted at August 1, 2006 11:53 AM

Jenny wrote:

Hey Daniel! I really loved your deisngs on the show! I honestly think you should have won! So, I have to ask... are you working for Michael yet? I can't wait to see you make it big in the fashion industry. I'm recently getting into it. I liked it ever since I saw what you could do. I made a promise to myself that once you made it big and I got up the money, I would buy one of your outfits. I can't wait to see what you'll do with yourself!

posted at August 1, 2006 06:12 PM

colette wrote:

hi dan!! your designs are awsome you are the best. please go on my website www.freewebs.com/cocomotive.com it is my brothers and my website for a game that we are makeing. your rock

posted at August 3, 2006 02:00 PM

Jo wrote:

props to you for addressing one of my fashion pet peeves! i can't stand any1 that wears socks with sandals either!

posted at August 4, 2006 02:57 PM

Elizabeth wrote:

Hello,
Ok let me start with "I love your ideas." I tell my mom all the time that flats look fine on her when her heels hurt and that she shouldn't wear the high pants or "granny pannies" as we call them. She listens to me a little more each time we go out shopping or she wears the outfit.
Your designs are amaxing but it's true that society prefers the model-look-a-like girl over the average. It's so annoying and I hate it. People should be themselves.
~Elizabeth........x

posted at August 8, 2006 02:59 PM

Samantha wrote:

I cannot thank you enough for posting this!
My my my, I thought I was the only one who noticed the way that some..okay...MOST people go out into broad daylight looking like their outfits were chosen by a Yeti. That is, a Yeti if they are lucky. Some choose to roll out of bed, proceed to the mirror, whip that hair out of their face and.....waltz straight out the door? iN pajamas? I don't think the house of Dior is coming out with a new trend. I just don't get it.

In other words. Nice blog!

posted at August 17, 2006 04:06 PM

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