Party (S)hopping: ELLE's Joe Zee, Heaven-Sent to Cusp

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Last night, we died and went to style heaven hanging at Cusp with Joe Zee, fashion genius and Creative Director of ELLE magazine. Not only does Zee hold one of the most coveted titles in fashion, but he has a resume that any glossy magazine toting fashionista would trade their pre-season YSL booties for. In addition to his editorial career, he is one of the industry’s top stylists whose vision has most likely impacted your very own closet.

As soon as we stepped foot into the Century City store, we were immediately greeted with martinis and “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga. ELLE magazines were strategically placed in between displays of Manolos, and chicly-clad guests were shopping, nibbling spicy tuna rolls and anticipating Zee's arrival. Moments later, we spotted him and his perfectly tailored black Marc Jacobs suit, and casually made our way over to say hello. In the midst of our interview, we asked him to take us on an impromptu shopping spree. The thought of Joe Zee styling us one on one seemed too good to be true, but to our surprise and delight he jumped at the challenge.

Arm in arm, we combed through Cusp’s racks chatting about fashion and trends. We bonded over our (somewhat controversial) view that shoulder pads are coming back and shared our love for the Rag & Bone boyfriend blazer, which Zee suggests looks great with high waisted jeans and a white tee. Check, check and check. We discussed the two “B’s”: blog and bags. Long chain 70's bags and clutches are what he and ELLE are into these days, and as far as online reading, he confessed that he spends a lot of time consuming NY media blogs so we kindly suggested some LA reads.

Soon the music was cut and it was time for Zee to present his four top trends, complete with live models to bring each look to life. His picks:

1) Influence of menswear: Tailored blazers, strong shoulders, feminine while androgynous.
2) Boho Chic: Pile it on, patterns, textures, colors, knits, fringe.
3) Berry Colored Trend: Berry tones in all textures.
4) Holiday Dressing: Embellished dresses, feathers, sequins, colored tights.

While his styling tips were perfection, first and foremost, we were impressed with Zee’s gracious manner. It’s no wonder his inspiration shines through the pages of the top mags. [RackedWire]

—by Geri Hirsch