shopbop's new designers!

The rapid rise of the digital age in the context of fashion doesn't stop at simply promoting accessibility, breaking down barriers of exclusivity and giving online influencers a place among the stars in the front-row of fashion; one of the most striking facets of our technology-powered industry is the fact that one no longer needs to doll-up and head into town in order to snap up some sale pieces from their favorite designer. For someone who likes doing absolutely nothing at home, the idea of shopping from the comfort of my bed is EXTREMELY appealing - and what better place to shop online than Shopbop?

The cream of the crop in the world of e-retail, Shopbop was launched in 2000 and has since been successfully in sustaining their vision of catering to the "chic, modern woman" of today. Shopbop provides a personalized shopping experience to its customers and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as having "the best customer service." A champion of emerging design talent (they feature limited edition pieces from top designers exclusively available on their site) and the first "magazine-meets-boutique" approach to e-commerce, Shopbop is arguably the best store of its kind - it's certainly made its way to my list of "Top Hits" lately! For a self-confessed newbie to the world of online shopping, Shopbop is definitely my top destination for future "e-splurges" on pieces from my favorite designers!

Here are my 5 picks from some of Shopbop's newest designers - let me know what you think of them!

1. One Teaspoon: Pretty Daggers Top
This homegrown Sydney label specializes in edgy yet wearable designs that bridge the gap between sexy rock-n-roll and laid-back surf culture, and is a great place to snap up deconstructed/reinvented wardrobe essentials in bold colors that transcend fast-fashion trends. I especially love this gorgeous caged top, it's basically the definition of Aussie Tumblr-style and can be worn in so many daring ways.

2. Vera Wang: Sleeveless Corseted Dress
Designed by the ever-reigning queen of the most important dress you'll ever wear (your wedding dress!), Vera Wang's aesthetic of elegance at every age is translated perfectly into this flattering white number. It's sophisticated but not dull and conservative but not granny-esque; while other designers struggle to walk the fine line between appropriateness and boredom, Vera Wang seems to skip along it and breeze right by. With simple pleating and an origami feel to the nipped in waist and medium-bodied skirt, this dress flatters the female form from every angle and promises to exude understated glamour.

3. Monika Chiang: Domina Chain Cuff Sandal
I've recently fallen very much in love with ankle-strap shoes; even though they provide the illusion of shorter, stumpier legs, I just love that they're a nice change from the generic pump-design of most heels. This head-turning design by Monika Chiang is a boundary-pushing, inspired take on classic athletic silhouettes - what I love is the range of textures, materials and color combined tastefully into one shoe that makes it the perfect focal point of a basic outfit. Monika Chiang's other designs feature the likes of mesh platforms and spiked wedge sneakers, making her name synonymous with all things sexy, grungy and athletic.

4. Liebeskind: Lioba Stainy Studs Bag
If there's one color that everyone needs to own more of, it's stone grey. Or rather, every single shade/tone (I forget which is the accurate artistic term!) between the extremes of black and white. Grey is such a beautifully understated addition to any outfit, it has a unique, offbeat appeal and is versatile beyond belief. This studded grey bag from Berlin-based brand Liebeskind (translation: "love child") is so wonderfully carefree, with a distinct charm that reflects the urban vibe of Berlin. Be it leather shorts, skinny jeans, a maxi dress or denim cutoffs, this bag might just be able to accompany every single outfit of yours out the door and onto the street.

5. ace&jig: Rolled Tee Blouse
If there's something I literally cannot ever have enough of, it's slouchy tees. This particular one comes with a great history as well as interesting details - the yarn-dyed striped fabric is made in collaboration with specialists in India on ancient hand looms. It adds the perfect touch of color, texture and a wonderful snippet of historical context to anything from a ripped pair of boyfriend jeans to a flowy maxi skirt.

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