How to take the best photos with iPhone »

We’ve taught you how to take the best Instagrams and we’ve given you tips on how to take the perfect profile picture. But what happens when pressure, bad lighting and moving runway models get thrown at you all at once? For amateur photographers like us, that just spells disaster. Who hasn’t taken photos at fashion shows, only to realize after the fact that none of the snapshots are Instagram-worthy? We’ve all been there. But before you lose all hope, we’re here to answer your photo-taking prayers. And with New York Fashion Week kicking off next week, we could not have timed this more perfectly.

The art of taking photos may take months or even years to master, especially with all the different shooting techniques and editing features. But with Twitter and Instagram playing such a big part in our lives, specifically during Fashion Week, everyone is dying to know the secret of composing the perfect photo, stat. We tapped the top iPhone photographers and videographers in the industry and asked for their tips and tricks on how to take the best photos and videos with our smartphones. Now we can have our cake and Instagram it too.

From working the exposure like a pro in lowly lit runways to taking stunning time-lapse videos for backstage content, we present you 8 easy-to-shoot techniques you need to know to take the best photos and videos for this season’s Fashion Week. You’d be surprised what a difference it makes with just a swipe and a few extra taps.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner (in case you haven’t noticed that drugstores suddenly look like Cupid’s dungeon) and no matter what your plans may be, we’ve got eight outfits from our Style Panel that are sure to set your heart aflutter. From casual leather pants to romantic sheer tops and printed skirts, we’re sure you’ll find something you like, whether your feelings about Valentine’s Day involve eye rolls or heart-eye emojis.

Blake Lively wears a dress, $3,200, Gucci. Hair, Rod Ortega and makeup, Elaine Offers.

Blake Lively has spent nearly a decade in an industry she initially had no interest in pursuing, but from the moment she appeared on TV screens in Gossip Girl, there’s been no denying her allure—just ask Leonardo DiCaprio, who was so under her spell, he engaged in several PDAs during their brief dalliance (we still want to know how she pulled that off). Today she’s married to Canada’s own Ryan Reynolds, has worked with Oscar winning directors such as Oliver Stone and Ben Affleck and this past summer launched Preserve, her own lifestyle website.

Amid the frenzy of the Cannes Film Festival and her duties as an official spokesperson for L’Oreal Paris back in May, Lively sat down with FASHION’s beauty director Lesa Hannah to discuss Hollywood, cakes and that time she visited babies in Sudbury with Reynolds.

On avoiding Hollywood at first:
“It was never that I didn’t want to be an actor because I thought it was a bad industry. It was just that my whole family did it and I wanted to do something different. I was the youngest of five kids and I wanted to create my own path and my own sort of legacy.”

On her announced visit to the pediatric unit of a Sudbury hospital last year: 
“I have six nieces and nephews, so for me, children are really what gets my heart going. I’ve spent time at St. Jude’s in the States and so any chance I get to go to a children’s hospital, I do. I try to do that in a way that’s it’s on a more personal level, but that one became sort of a public thing that we didn’t intend, but it’s great to do that.”

On how her mom’s cakes made her see the power of baking:
“She just created a whole life, a personality out of this thing. It was very much art and a celebration, and it made every holiday so special. I would be so proud when she would bring them into my class, and all of the kids in school would just freak out. She would let other kids help decorate too. And I suffer from the opposite, I’m very precious about it, it has to be perfect.”

On Age of Adaline, her first movie post-Gossip Girl. 
“I really wanted some time to myself and to focus on other things that I loved, so that when I did it again I would be really re-invigorated. And it took a movie that I really couldn’t say ‘no’ to, you know, because there’s plenty that I would have done, but it was really important to have that time. So when I read that one, I said, ‘I can’t not be in this movie, I have to do this movie.’”

To read our cover story, pick up the FASHION Magazine October 2014 issue starring Blake Lively, available on newsstands September 15, 2014.

Despite couture’s robust showing a few weeks back, all signs (dollar signs—to be exact) have been pointing towards the increasing popularity of casual wear. While the intricate designs trotted out on those runways are breathtaking, they are also inaccessible and increasingly irrelevant to society at large. But does that distance imply a watering-down of fashion as we know it? Well, it’s not that simple!

The reality is that people still love well-made clothing, but, ideally, clothing they can actually live in. A recent article on Business of Fashionreflects on this phenomenon, citing an increasing fondness for so-called “streetwear” brands as evidence. But in finding the term “streetwear” demeaning and inadequate for labels like Public Schooland Hood by Air, the fashion editor of Complex, Matthew Henson, hails it as “luxury sportswear.” These brands are both sleek and sporty, with many details pulled directly from actual athletic wear. Alexander Wang is the obvious poster child, receiving serious recognition for his take on the trend.

This shift has been seen throughout the industry, in brand collaborations such as Raf Simons for Adidas, as well as company shake-ups like the recent hire at Lands' End of an executive who formerly worked for Dolce & Gabbana. In short, the lines between high and low are blurring more and more, but the relationships fostered as a result appear to be mutually beneficial: The lower-priced brands are getting a high fashion leg-up that appeals to a world much more in tune with style itself, while luxury brands receive important feedback and, often, a more contemporary vibe from consulting young designers who are privy to the latest trends.

It sounds like perfect harmony to me—an ideal state for fashion today. But not everyone’s in agreement, and some major designers have made recent moves that go entirely against this model. Viktor & Rolfrecently followed in Jean Paul Gaultier’s footsteps by announcing their decision to put the brakes on their ready-to-wear business altogether in order to focus all their energy on couture. The designers explained their decision to WWD, noting that, “[Ready-to-wear] started to feel creatively restricting. By letting go of it, we gain more time and freedom.”

It’s a striking statement, one that paints the widespread move towards luxury sportswear in a darker light. So is there really not enough room for creativity within that sphere? Or do the inherent limits actually benefit designers, challenging them to think in different ways—ways that resonate much further than those of a closed-off couture collection? 

Below, a peek at some of our favorite fashionable sportswear pieces.

• 1 of 11
  

  
  
  T by Alexander Wang Scuba Neoprene Sweatshirt ($325) 
• 2 of 11
  

  
  
  ASOS Crop Top in Rib with Turtle Neck ($19) 
• 3 of 11
  

  
  
  3.1 Phillip Lim Cloque & Diamond-Quilted Bomber Jacket ($750) 
• 4 of 11
  

  
  
  Helmut Lang Colorblock Jumpsuit ($540) 
• 5 of 11
  

  
  
  Topshop Copenhagen Lace-Up Trainers ($35) 
• 6 of 11
  

  
  
  Alexander Wang Dumbo Backpack ($1,050) 
• 7 of 11
  

  
  
  Topshop Knitted Stripe Maxi Dress ($90) 
• 8 of 11
  

  
  
  Vince Berlin 6 Slip-on Suede Sneaker ($225) in Flint
• 9 of 11
  

  
  
  Acne Studios Minerva T-Shirt ($280) 
• 10 of 11
  

  
  
  Topshop Edge to Edge Blanket Coat ($150) 
• 11 of 11
  

  
  
  T by Alexander Wang Striped Stretch-Cotton Bra Top ($150)

  We’d love to hear your thoughts on this issue! Please share in the comments, and let us know what sportswear brands you’re currently loving.

IMAGE: YANA DAVYDOVA FOR FASHIONBEANS

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Taking Stock Of Street Style

Kick the brogues off, unknot the neck tie, and hang your overcoat up to dry – the European men’s fashion weeks are over. We’ve seen hulking models in bright pink knits and a shedload of 1970s references; we’ve seen new designers, old brands, as well as new things from old brands. And we’ve even seen (can’t unsee) some entirely unexpected peen, courtesy of Rick Owens.

As always, the menswear shows offered an insight into what we’ll all be clamouring after come autumn/winter 2015. But, just as important as dissecting what went down the runway is taking a look at what the menswear elite chose to wear off of it.

Here’s our edit of eight key street style trends we spotted across London, Pitti, Milan and Paris, which you can try out now:

1. Checked Tailoring

Particularly prominent at London Collections: Men and Pitti Uomo, checked tailoring is a trend that is still going strong. And with everything from classic Prince of Wales and tartan motifs to subtle gingham patterns and statement-making windowpane checks on display, versatility is clearly the driving force behind its continued popularity.

While many attendees opted for just one check piece (a well-cut overcoat or suit jacket) as the focal point of their outfit, our prime props are reserved for those men who nailed head-to-toe looks, or layered different types of checks for an effect that may sound over the top, but in reality looked superb.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• ASOS SLIM FIT SUIT TROUSERS IN CHECK
• TED BAKER ENDURANCE LUBOC LARGE SCALE CHECK COAT
• SUITSUPPLY LAZIO BLUE CHECK
• AUSTIN REED BLACK WATCH TARTAN WOOL JACKET
• AUSTIN REED OVERCHECK WOOL JACKET
• M&S COLLECTION LUXURY NEW WOOL BLEND TAILORED FIT CHECK JACKET WITH LINEN
• REISS SHOTEL THREE PIECE CHECK SUIT GREY
• SUITSUPPLY HAVANA BURGUNDY CHECK
• ETRO TAPERED CHECKED WOOL AND COTTON-BLEND TROUSERS

2. Contrast Sleeves & Gilets

Ever since the varsity jacket made its comeback a few years ago, contrast sleeves have worked their way into many modern gents’ wardrobes.

We’ve moved on from a simple black leather sleeve though – this season the menswear tastemakers kicked the trend up a notch, opting for jackets with sharply contrasting sleeves, whether in terms of colour (canary yellow against a body of light olive) or fabric (leather sleeves against a body of tweed).

Though not technically a contrast sleeve, plenty of menswear’s major players achieved a similar effect by layering gilets or tailored vests over suiting or smart separates – a trick that not only adds essential warmth to a winter look, but creates an attention-grabbing contrast to boot.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• HE BY MANGO CONTRAST SLEEVE BOMBER JACKET
• RIVER ISLAND BOMBER JACKET
• SUITSUPPLY LIGHT BROWN BODYWARMER
• ALLSAINTS GUNNER COAT
• ALLSAINTS GLADE PEA COAT
• HE BY MANGO CABLE-KNIT PANEL REVERSIBLE GILET
• CLUB MONACO LEATHER AND WOOL-BLEND BOMBER JACKET
• THE BROOKLYN CIRCUS LEATHER SLEEVE MOTO VARSITY JACKET
• UNIQLO MEN ULTRA LIGHT DOWN VEST

3. Statement Overcoats

A given, really, considering it’s the autumn/winter 2015 show circuit we’re talking about here, and yet, this season really consolidated the importance of the overcoat in contemporary menswear.

Pity the fool whose outerwear game isn’t on point – it’s no longer acceptable to throw on whatever’s warm and hanging around the house. From classic camel styles to more adventurous designs, show venues were teeming with nattily tailored overcoats this season.

If you haven’t already secured one, a statement overcoat – whether it’s a timeless single-breasted classic in jet black or ash grey, or something louder in bright blue or red – should be top of your sartorial wish list.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• HE BY MANGO FAUX-FUR LINED COAT
• RIVER ISLAND LONG CAMEL COAT
• ALLSAINTS YUTO COAT
• SISLEY OVERCOAT WITH GRADIENT BODY
• SUITSUPPLY BROWN DOUBLE BREASTED COAT
• RECLAIMED VINTAGE HERRINGBONE OVERCOAT
• HARDY AMIES WOOL OVERCOAT
• RICHARD JAMES MAYFAIR CHECKED CONTEMPORARY OVERCOAT
• TED BAKER HAMZTED SHEARLING COLLAR COAT

4. Blue

We’re not sure what got into the water in Florence, but blue was big at Pitti. Though neutrals and pops of colours like burgundy, pine green and orange dominated the main European fashion weeks, Pitti was awash with blue, from cobalt to cerulean.

Along with a playful use of checks, Pitti attendees either used bright shades to accent their tailored looks – a petrol blue fedora here, a baby blue neck tie there – or they really went for it with tonal tailored looks that epitomised the humour of Pitti, in contrast to the sometimes stone-faced aloofness of other major menswear events.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• HE BY MANGO CABLE-KNIT COTTON SWEATER
• TOPMAN COBALT BLUE TRILBY HAT
• HE BY MANGO GARMENT-DYED BLAZER
• GAP MAC JACKET
• HE BY MANGO SLIM-FIT 5 POCKET COTTON TROUSERS
• HE BY MANGO COTTON SILK-BLEND CARDIGAN
• DRAKES PRINTED COTTON AND SILK-BLEND POCKET SQUARE
• REISS CHISWICK CHUNKY WEAVE JUMPER BRIGHT BLUE
• RIVER ISLAND BLUE DOUBLE BREASTED SLIM BLAZER

5. Voluminous Scarves

The ‘manket’ may not have taken off to the same extent that the industry expected it to, but what the past few weeks have proved is that scarves certainly aren’t getting any smaller.

From relatively slender styles that snake almost to the ground to hulking woven scarves coiled carefully around the neck, scarves mean serious business this season.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• NEW LOOK BLACK BLANKET SCARF
• ESPRIT CHUNKY SCARF
• SAINT LAURENT OVERSIZED PATTERNED WOOL AND COTTON-BLEND SCARF
• AMI ALEXANDRE MATTIUSSI CHUNKY SCARF
• TOPMAN DYED CHECKED BLANKET SCARF.
• COLOUR BLOCK CHECK BLANKET SCARF

6. Trainers With Tailoring

Though there are still plenty of us that wince slightly on seeing something as casual as a pair of trainers worn with tailoring (whether a full suit or trouser separates), the trend has gone from burgeoning to big-time over the last year.

At the recent shows, there was a move away from panelled, neon New Balance styles to smarter, minimalist trainers, most of them in white (with the go-to model being the Stan Smith). Comfortable and classic, this look is perfect for striking the balance between form and function when you’re traipsing through the streets all day.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• ALLSAINTS CRESCENT LOW TOP
• HE BY MANGO LEATHER SNEAKERS
• NIKE TENNIS CLASSIC AC – SIZE? EXCLUSIVE
• PUMA MENS COURT STAR CLEAN PACK SNEAKERS
• ASOS TRAINERS
• RALPH LAUREN JERMAIN LEATHER TRAINERS
• CONVERSE JACK PURCELL LEATHER SNEAKERS
• ADIDAS ORIGINALS STAN SMITH LEATHER SNEAKERS
• COMMON PROJECTS ORIGINAL ACHILLES LEATHER SNEAKERS

7. Denim

Already capitalising on one of spring/summer 2015’s biggest trends, several men’s style aficionados chose denim either for the bulk of their outfit or as a contrast layer.

Doubling up on the fabric with a pair of jeans and a denim shirt underneath a sharp overcoat was a favoured combination, while swapping the traditional Oxford button-down for a denim version was another go-to move we applauded.

Photo: GQ.com

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• ASOS DENIM JACKET
• CHEAP MONDAY DENIM BOMBER JACKET
• WRANGLER CHAMBRAY DENIM SHIRT IN LIGHT INDIGO
• REISS ROYCE WASHED DENIM SHIRT INDIGO
• REISS REDFORD SLIM-FIT STRETCH JEANS BLUE
• TOPMAN BLUE BLEACH DENIM LONG SLEEVE SHIRT
• MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA WASHED-DENIM OVERSHIRT
• INCOTEX SLIM-FIT WASHED-DENIM JEANS
• OFFICINE GENERALE SLIM-FIT SELVEDGE DENIM SUIT JACKET

8. Folios

Given that most of the men we’re featuring were likely lugging around an average of ten show invitations on any given day, it’s not surprising that many of them carried a folio to store them.

That said, where totes and holdalls were previously the first choice of menswear’s most formidable, now folios are the invitation holder du jour.

From compact to capacious, classic black to all-over camo, a folio is the perfectly sleek accompaniment to a well-appointed outfit.

Photos: Yu Yang & Yana Davydova For FashionBeans

Key Pieces

• REISS PARIS ZIP DOCUMENT HOLDER BLACK
• ASOS LEATHER DOCUMENT CASE
• TED BAKER GLOBAL CLARIZ METALLIC GRADIENT SUEDE SLIM DOCUMENT BAG
• TED BAKER PHANFA PRINTED LEATHER DOCUMENT BAG
• JIL SANDER MENS GREY DOCUMENT WALLET
• WANT LES ESSENTIELS DE LA VIE BLACK BARAJAS LEATHER FOLIO POUCH
• TARNSJO GARVERI ICON MACBOOK LEATHER PORTFOLIO
• VALEXTRA GRAINED-LEATHER POUCH 1012087
• RICHARD JAMES OMBRE LEATHER ZIP POUCH

Final Word

If you’re on the lookout for some sure-fire ways to bring your current wardrobe bang up to date, then incorporating one, or more, of these trends is a great place to start before delving into spring/summer 2015.

Will you be trying your hand at any of these? Were there other trends you spotted on the streets?