Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York & Los Angeles

Fashion Public Relations - A flying penis, voluminous robes and a call to release a convicted prisoner -- British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood brought it all to Paris in a shrill show on Tuesday.

In an autumn-winter collection inspired by Greek themes, 64-year-old Westwood paraded models in long, gold shimmering coats and girls showing off colorful tights under bright purple layered dresses with the word "Innocent" printed on them.

"I think it is terribly important to have opinions, and to think. We live in a world of action without thought," said Westwood, who has kept her eccentric edge since her bondage- inspired creations for the Sex Pistols punk band in the 1970s.

Dear Paula,
I noticed that European Union regulations have a warning for sunscreens containing oxybenzone. I read a little about this ingredient on the Internet and I must say I am a bit worried now. Is it safe? Does oxybenzone interfere with your hormones?
Diana, via email

Dear Diana,
From what I can tell, there has been some alarmist and false information floating around on the Internet about many sunscreen ingredients. However, most of these risk-related comments are either not supported by published research or the only research performed was in animal or in vitro studies.

West

The Fairmont Mayakoba, Riveria Maya, Mexico, Opening March 2006, Willow Stream Spa

The Fairmount Mayakoba believes in a philosophy of harmony with nature; nowhere is this more evident than when you enter the Willow Stream Spa. The Willow Stream Spa uses energy-inspired experiences, including an array of massage therapies such as the Deep Tissue Sports Massage which concentrates on sore muscles and aches. Another massage is the Aromatherapy Massage which is gentle massage using specially blended oils ideal for jet lag, revitalising and relaxing.

Facilities incorporate: 20 treatment rooms including two treatment suites with private balconies for outdoor treatments, a fitness facility with a weight training system and cardio equipment, a fitness studio with a daily schedule of classes, men’s & women’s lounge with whirlpool, inhalation room, steam, sauna and shower, meditation and a boutique. For couples there is even a couple’s tree top spa suite, enabling total indulgence in the spa experience.

Mandarin Oriental, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Opening Autumn 2006

This exclusive resort will be a luxurious hideaway set among 36 acres of tropical jungle that meet the white, sandy beaches of the unspoiled Yucatan coastline.

The 20,000 sq ft Spa at Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya will draw on ancient oriental traditions and incorporate Mayan rituals and treatments such as traditional massages and baths. Separated into three distinct areas, high energy for strength training, wet areas for relaxation and finally treatment rooms where holistic therapists and global healing practices can come together in a unique sensory experience.

The high energy area includes a multi-purpose studio for yoga and pilates as well as a state-of-the-art gymnasium. The wet area includes Rhassoul for women and a dry sauna for men, Hamam scrub room and table and vitality pool. The treatment rooms include a special couple’s suite for simultaneous therapies and an exclusively decadent VIP suite. Guests will find a spa pool, watsu pool, a Mayan “Temazcal” and peaceful deck for relaxation. A restaurant offers Spa cuisine; a carefully devised menu offering tempting dishes.

Jessica Alba is demanding that Playboy pull its March issue, saying she didn't agree to be on the cover and that the image may mislead readers into thinking she appears nude or partially nude in the magazine.

The cover shows the 24-year-old actress in a bikini, next to the headline "25 Sexiest Celebrities." Besides demanding that Playboy stop distributing the March issue, Alba is asking for "monetary settlement" for damages to her reputation and career.

In a Feb. 23 letter obtained by The Smoking Gun Web site, Alba's lawyers told Playboy the magazine used a photo of Alba meant to promote the movie "Into the Blue" without her consent. Sony Pictures, which owns the image, sent a separate letter alleging that Playboy initially offered to pay Alba to pose for the cover of the issue. When her publicist refused, Playboy resorted to using "false pretenses" to obtain the promotional shot, according to the letter.

Los Angeles Confidential Magazine will host their 4th Annual Academy Awards Party on Thursday, March 2nd at the world famous SKYBAR at the Mondrian Hotel. Sponsored by The Morgans Hotel Group and Hendrix Electric Vodka, the star-studded event should be one of the best parties of the 2006 awards season.

Los Angeles Confidential Magazine celebrates its Oscar cover of Oscar Nominee Philip Seymour Hoffman this Thursday. The celebration will be attended by a host of A-List personalities from film, television, and music
including "Crash" star and fellow Oscar Nominee Matt Dillon, Babyface, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Naomi Campbell, Ludacris, Dennis Hopper, Paris Hilton, Larry and Shawn King, Famke Janssen, Helena Christensen, John Salley, Darren Starr, Natalie Cole, Finola Hughes, Daisy Fuentes, Bai Ling, Byron Allen, and
more.

"We are about making products that embody the art and love of Jimi himself, while giving back to his family and the community," states Electric Hendrix LLC CEO Craig Dieffenbach. "Everything we produce has the stamp of approval from Jimi's closest blood relatives, band mates, friends, and people who mattered most in his life."
"Morgans Hotel Group is proud to be a sponsor for LA Confidential's party honoring the best in Hollywood," commented Ed Scheetz, CEO of Morgans Hotel Group.

The cocktail reception starts at 6:30 p.m. where guests will enjoy the hospitality of the Morgans Hotel Group as well as cocktails sponsored by Hendrix Electric while being entertained by world renowned DJ Johnny Knight and his special blend of hip hop, top 40, rap, and rock beats.

Today, the Global Gaming League (http://www.GGL.com), experts in online competitive video game tournaments, and Snoop Dogg jointly announced the formation of the Hip Hop Gaming League (www. HHGL.com). Snoop will serve as the league's first commissioner ensuring that all matches played online via Xbox Live for the Xbox 360 TM) are electrifying but fair. The inaugural season player lineup includes stars such as Proof (D12), Paul Wall, Just Blaze, Krazyie Bone of Grammy winners Bone-Thugs-n-Harmony, MLS soccer star Cobi Jones, Murs, Kaine (Ying Yang Twins), NBA Star Jalen Rose, Twista, Fredwreck, BReal of Cypress Hill, Eric V. of the Baka Boyz, and Wutang Clan founder Method Man. Players were selected based on their reputations for top video game skills, as well as for their prominence in the hip hop community.

The City of West Hollywood will host the Celebration of Artistic Freedom Academy Awards "Party With a Purpose" viewing dinner, after party and awards program on Sunday, March 5, 2006. The dinner and Academy Awards viewing party will feature red carpet arrivals and will take place at Pearl Restaurant and Nightclub located at 665 N. Robertson Boulevard, followed by the after party at Factory, upstairs from Pearl and located at 652 N. LaPeer Drive in West Hollywood. This event is hosted by the City, and benefits Amnesty International, Artists for a New South Africa and the ACLU Foundation of Southern California, and focuses on human and civil rights while honoring creative excellence.

Fashion took on a new look this season as it draped the hottest names in entertainment – all for a good cause. General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM) hosted an all-star lineup for its highly-anticipated ten fashion event, which took place in Hollywood on Tuesday, February 28. With 2006 marking the 5th annual, this year’s event was a who’s who in the industry including Eva Longoria, Anna Kournikova, Jeremy Piven, Carmen Electra, Sarah Chalke, and many more. With this year’s “garage chic” theme, ten intersected the worlds of fashion, automotive design and entertainment by pairing the hottest brands with the hippest stars and most coveted fashions all under one roof.

When "Friends" left television, so did Courteney Cox Arquette, who played Monica Geller on the long-running series. But the actress is coming back in "Dirt," a drama pilot for the FX network, in which she will play tabloid editor Lucy Spiller. Production on the pilot is scheduled to begin in March. "We are absolutely thrilled that Courteney has chosen 'Dirt' for her return to series television," Nick Grad, the network's vice president of original programming, said in a statement. Along with the show's director, Matthew Carnahan, Cox and her husband, David Arquette, are credited as executive producers.

Development Would Combine the Distinctiveness of Hard Rock's Four-Star, Luxury Properties with Intrawest's Exclusive Copper Mountain Resort Setting Hard Rock International announced today its intention to develop alifestyle condominium-hotel, in partnership with IntrawestCorporation, at the Copper Mountain Resort in Summit County, Colorado.

Hard Rock's four-star, luxury property - a multi-million dollarproject - would feature the company's unique rock experience, qualityservice and amenities, situated within an exclusive resort setting atthe base of Copper Mountain. The hotel would be the first propertydeveloped under an agreement announced in August 2005 between LifestarHotels LLC - a 50:50 joint venture between Hard Rock International andSol Melia Hotels - and Intrawest, which owns Copper Mountain. Underthe agreement, Lifestar would develop lifestyle Hard Rock Hotels atselect Intrawest properties worldwide.

Nearly three decades after John Travolta raised our temperatures with films like Saturday Night Fever and Grease, the hunky star is trading in his gel for a big bottle of hairspray.

This morning, the WB 11 Morning News confirmed that John Travolta has signed on to play Edna Turnblad in the film re-make of John Water’s cult classic, Hairspray. We know he has the signing voice and acting chops to play the role, but he has two very big dresses to fill…literally. The role was first made famous by Devine back in ‘88, and later by Harvey Fierstein when he starred in the Broadway version, a role which landed him his forth Tony Award, this time for best actor in a musical [in 2003].

This could be a very wise move for Travolta who hasn’t had a big hit in several years, and tends to get more press for his Scientology convictions. But, if we’ve learned anything from the films of 2005, playing gay or dressing in drag goes a long way come award season.

If that’s not enough to draw you to the film, Queen Latifah will also reportedly star as the civil rights activist and dance show host, Motormouth Maybelle. The film will go into production this summer and should be in theatres in time for the 2007 summer season.

As for Grease 3, production plans have been halted, according to Moviehole.com. Don’t fret though, John Travolta has written a romantic comedy that could reunite him with his “summer love,” Olivia Newton-John. According to Travolta, "It's a tear-jerker. Fans will love it…there's a love theme throughout."

A model displays Harry Winston's 20-carat Fancy Yellow Diamond ring valued at $550,000. This diamond is expected to appear at this year's Academy Awards show.

Beverly Hills People was on hand as Harry Winston unveiled the Red Carpet Collection for the 78th annual Academy Awards. These Oscar-night jewels were unveiled Wednesday at the Harry Winston Rodeo Drive flagship store. These jewels will be featured accessories on several A-list stars appearing this Sunday at the Oscar ceremonies at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood.

Harry Winston creative director Susy Korb discussed red carpet trends in Hollywood that included a surprising development this year; many of the younger Hollywood stars will be going retro with an emphasis on classy cluster diamonds and vintage looks that harken back to traditional Hollywood styles.

Jessica Alba is demanding that Playboy pull its March issue, saying she didn't agree to be on the cover and that the image may mislead readers into thinking she appears nude or partially nude in the magazine.

The cover shows the 24-year-old actress in a bikini, next to the headline "25 Sexiest Celebrities." Besides demanding that Playboy stop distributing the March issue, Alba is asking for "monetary settlement" for damages to her reputation and career.

In a Feb. 23 letter obtained by The Smoking Gun Web site, Alba's lawyers told Playboy the magazine used a photo of Alba meant to promote the movie "Into the Blue" without her consent. Sony Pictures, which owns the image, sent a separate letter alleging that Playboy initially offered to pay Alba to pose for the cover of the issue. When her publicist refused, Playboy resorted to using "false pretenses" to obtain the promotional shot, according to the letter.

Faye Dunaway recently pulled a Joan Crawford tirade on producers of a new documentary about her life when the final version of the film didn’t focus enough on the “positive things” in her career. In a two-minute long voicemail, Dunaway makes us remember why we loved her in the first place. She’s a powerful woman, and amazing actress, who is not afraid to tell someone to go f**k themselves or beat them with a wire hanger if she [her character in Mommie Dearest] doesn’t get her way.

In the message Dunaway calls ex-husband Terry O’Neil “a big, big liar” and “a man who, suffice it to say, stopped working when he married me and pretended to be my manager for a very long time. So let’s not even go there. It’s very upsetting to me!”

She went on to say that she wanted every mention of Andrew Lloyd Weber to be removed, stating, “I’d like you to cut him out,” refereeing to her role in Sunset Boulevard.

In a final blow that would shock most gay men who probably get their first inkling of homosexual notions after seeing her cult-classic film, Mommie Dearest, Dunaway said “I’d like you to really trim down everything to do with that Mommie Dearest. I’m not going to talk about it. Maybe one thing I’m going to say about it, and that’s all. It’s just like an obsession. Why can’t you be obsessed with positive things?”

Cheer up Mommie. Fans love you for your body of work, including the flopps you would like to forget. If it’s any consolation, Supergirl is one of my favorite B-movies.

Chloe Dao, an aspiring designer from Houston who came to America as a child from war-torn southeast Asia, won the second season of the Bravo fashion-competition hit "Project Runway" on Wednesday, netting a $100,000 cash prize to start her own clothing line.

"Are you kidding me? No way!" said a genuinely surprised Dao when the Emmy-nominated show's judges named her the winner over the other two finalists, recent fashion school graduate Daniel Vasovic and Santino Rice, an outspoken Californian who emerged as the reality show's star and chief villain.

"We loved what you did," supermodel Heidi Klum, the cable-TV show's host, told Dao.

Sticking to a Mediterranean diet, high in fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fats, lowers levels of inflammation in the elderly, as reflected by lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), research shows. This effect should, in turn, lead to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease that has been associated with this type of diet.

CRP is a marker of inflammation that has been tied to the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Researchers from the Stanford School of Medicine in California studied the effect of diet on CRP levels in blood in 911 healthy individuals -- 326 women and 585 men -- whose average age was 66 years. Subjects were followed from January 2002 through December 2003.

Breast cancer among South Korean women is increasing at a rapid rate due in part to a more Western lifestyle and consumption of more fatty foods, according to a paper made available on Tuesday.

In the paper published in the February issue of the Archives of Surgery, a Journal of the American Medical Association publication, South Korean scientists found that South Korean women have increased risk factors for breast cancer in recent years.

The public has seen a lot of mama-to-be Rachel Weisz lately - first at the Golden Globes in a gold Donna Karan gown and then at the Oscars in a sleek black Narciso Rodriguez gown.

Now Weisz, who is seven months pregnant, is the face of Burberry's ad campaign for the new fragrance London. The ads were shot last fall.

The 35-year-old actress, who won an Oscar on Sunday for her role in "The Constant Gardener," is a fashion-industry favorite.

"I love beautiful things and beautiful fashion," Weisz told The Associated Press in a recent telephone interview. "I like clothes that are beautifully cut that aren't too fussy."

Harvin Greene still loves looking tan, but with a 3-year-old daughter, she doesn't have much time anymore for sitting in the sun or keeping frequent appointments to use a tanning bed.

So every once in a while, the 31-year-old Atlanta homemaker dashes into a local salon and gets a spray-on tan that lasts about a week.

"It's big, I don't have to wait, and I get an immediate tan," Greene said. "Everybody asks, 'Did you just get back from vacation?'"

Greene's Atlanta salon represents a new trend in indoor tanning. It is huge, brightly lit inside, and is owned by one of several companies that are trying to create major national chains in an industry that doesn't have any.

It seems only fitting, say many women, that if a size 14 was the best-selling women's size in 2005, stores should feature more stylish, contemporary clothing for the full-figured customer.

That's not what women have found in the past. While department stores carry a vast range of brands, many plus-size women feel these departments are hard to find and do not offer an extensive selection of merchandise, and they are tired of poor service. Some women have relied on the Internet for a wider range of fashions, but buying without trying on can be a hassle-not to mention trying to return an online purchase.

Fortunately, full-figured women no longer have to search for decent plus-size fashions or deal with the poor service that often accompanies such purchases. A new plus-size boutique concept with a warm and inviting atmosphere has been designed to make the shopping experience more satisfying.

Allyre Jewelry's 18-karat yellow- gold triple medallion necklace set with diamonds.
Fine jewelry is the perfect way to update and accessorize this season's fashions. "Eyelet dresses, Edwardian-inspired blouses and white clothing, all hot trends this season, provide the perfect backdrop for fine jewelry," says Helena Krodel, spokesperson for Jewelry Information Center. Regardless of your style or budget, there is a piece of innovative or soul-proclaiming fine jewelry to perfectly suit you.

Marvelous Medallions

Medallions will be on the top of shoppers' lists. Look for versions with floral motifs, intricate carvings, filigree work or personal engravings. Grand-scale medallions pair well with long thick chain-link necklaces in gold, platinum or sterling silver. More petite medallions look fresh suspended from brightly colored gemstone necklaces, chains set with diamonds, "diamonds by the yard" or a strand of pearls à la Chanel.

Pictured is a pair of long earrings, featuring graduated tones of yellow sapphires, ending in a pearl drop. Designed by Mark Patterson.

The international fashion community has spoken and one trend is clear-women are looking decidedly feminine and attractive for spring 2006. Gone are the costume-like layers, jangling accessories, and over-the-top prints of last year.

This year, colorful gemstones and sparkling diamonds are a winning bet in jewelry, says the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This prestigious nonprofit education and research institution teaches the public and the jewelry industry about diamonds, gemstones and jewelry design. It even grants business degrees in jewelry.

Michele Barouh, Creative Director of Michele, announced the arrival of the first Michele Jewelry Collection in select Neiman Marcus stores nationwide. This 18 karat gold collection mixes precious stones with the fun personality of the Michele brand to create distinctive and unique jewelry. The Michele Jewelry Collection is the first brand extension for the fine watch company, which was acquired by Fossil (Nasdaq: FOSL) in 2004.

INTRODUCTION
WHAT'S IN A SMILE?
Smiling: The art of speaking . . . without saying a word.
"Smile at life, and life will smile at you." -William Shakespeare
There's a reason why the smile is the universal language. The original form of instant messaging, a smile is ageless and it never goes out of style.

In the past few years, the smile has taken center stage as the ultimate symbol of beauty-more than beautiful eyes, more than great hair, even more than a sexy body. A brilliant smile has become the determinant in describing both beauty and personality. Think about it: You never hear someone say, "She's got such a great smile," when they're describing an aloof or rude woman. Rather, such appraisal evokes admiration, even envy. She is someone you'd like to model yourself after.

Jodie Foster came out of hibernation for a rare public appearance last Monday night. The Academy Award Winner, who is often referred to as the “Modern Garbo,” because of her reclusive nature, reports the NY Post’s Page Six, attended Elle Décor’s Dining by Design, an ongoing fund-raiser for AIDS, organized by DIFFA. Eye witnesses said that Foster appeared to have a wonderful time, a great sign that spring is just around the corner.

Foster, who forked over $500 for the event [that took place at Waterfront – formerly Tunnel], sat with old buddy and Yale alumnus, Marco Pasanella, who also created a table for the event. Page Six reports that he was also once rumored to be the father of her 8-year-old son, Charles, though Foster has never revealed how she became pregnant.

Also in attendance were DIFFA chairman David Rockwell, Pierce Mattie client Norma Kamali, Jane Seymour and hostess Margaret Russell.

I’m sure it was a fabulous affair. I’ve attended these soirees in the past for my client and DIFFA patron HOMMAGE, a design company that creates luxury shaving equipment from world-renowned designer, Wolfgang Joensson.

Make sure to check Jodie Foster out in her new film, Inside Man, which opens in theatres nationwide on March 24th.

The people have spoken, and the ruler of the box office is V for Vendetta. Set in the near future, the film, by the same producers of the Matrix trilogy, is a revolutionary tale of love, mystery and rebellion. The film starts with a Guy-Fawkes-masked terrorist/rebellion, played by Hugo Weaving, coming to the rescue of Evey, an innocent-faced girl played by Natalie Portman who soon becomes the apprentice, or maybe hostage, of “V.” The explosive chemistry between Weaving and Portman sends sparks flying as the two battle it out against the totalitarian government.

V for Vendetta is hands-down one of the best films of 2006, if not the 21st century. Portman further establishes herself as one of the best actors of her generation, and proves that she has what it takes to someday join the 25+ million dollar club with fellow leading-ladies, Julia Roberts and Reese Witherspoon. Weaving raises the stakes for leading men, showing that it takes more than just good looks to drive a film. He doesn’t show his face in a single frame, as it’s hidden behind a mask, and yet he delivers a profound performance. It doesn’t matter that you can’t see his facial expressions because he delivers the character in the way he speaks and moves.

For more info on the film, visit http://vforvendetta.warnerbros.com/.

March Madness is in full swing as the words “seed” and “bracket” become a part of everyday conversation. The NCAA tournament is a time of year when fans outside the universities become part of the universities. This is a true competition, not the type between the fans and the players brawling in the seats.

It's the ultimate beauty nightmare when you find out your favorite fragrance has been discontinued. The fragrance that have I worn for six years is no more. (365 days x 6 = 133,225. I have gone through about 70+ bottles in my lifetime)

Naturally I called Rosemarie Sterling the PR manager and she confirmed YES it's gone. I cried. Yves Saint Laurent revamped the fragrance with a new spin launching on March 30, 2000 called Body Kourus. Created by Annick Menardo. Menardo graduated from ISIPCA and then joined Creations Aromatiques where she worked with Michel Almayrac who became her mentor. His short and precise formulae would reflect in Annick Menardo's first creations. In 1991, she joined Firmenich and achieved her first success "Roma Uomo", followed by l'Eau d'Eden, Lolita Lempicka, Hypnotic Poison, Boss Bottled and Bulgari Black.

If you have ever smelt Body Kouros it’s the yummiest divine scent on the planet. A vibrant spicy-woody fragrance. The top is fresh but also "spiritual" with eucalyptus and incense notes. The smoky heart comprises Chinese cedarwood and nutmeg mace. The drydown includes benzoin, camphor and a "skin" accord. Now if my two other favorite scents that she created; Lolita Lempicka Au Masculin and Bulgari Black die also - we are in big trouble!

The Thursday Styles section of the New York Times yesterday featured an interesting look at the male sex symbol, Paul Bunyan? Back during New York Fashion Week, about a half- dozen designers showcased models sporting the full beard, only slightly shorter than Tom Hank’s in Forrest Gump. An “expression of individualism in a tide of metrosexual conformity,” was the way the writer explained the look two years ago, but now it has become commonality in the workplace, where facial hair was once shunned upon.

Move over Trump, there’s a new king of the jungle (a.k.a. Manhattan). Tarzan, the first new musical from Disney in five years, opens on Broadway tonight, Friday, March 24th with new songs from the six-time Grammy® Award winner Phil Collins.

“He has expanded his original songs-including the Oscar® and Grammy® Award winning ‘You'll Be in My Heart’ and ‘Two Worlds’--creating a complete theater score,” reports Broadway.com.

Joining Collins is two-time Tony winner Bob Crowley, as director, and Tony Winner David Henry Hwang, who adapted the story for the stage. Making their Broadway debuts are acclaimed Australian choreographer Meryl Tankard and aerial designer Pichon Baldinu, creator of De La Guarda. The combined artistry will help bring the groundbreaking animation to the stage. Reportedly, actors and crew have spent months rehearsing in a stage in Brooklyn, all while rehearsing Collin’s music, which he was still finishing up through previews of the show.

The stars are Jenn Gambatese as Jane, Shuler Hensley as Kerchak Hensley (won Tony winner for his performance as Jud Fry in the 2002 revival of Oklahoma!), Merle Dandridge as Kala (had a long run as Broadway's Joanne in Rent) and Josh Strickland as Tarzan (a finalist on American Idol).

This is sure to be one show that the crowds will go ape-crazy over.

The World Watch and Jewellery Show BASELWORLD will run from 30 March to 6 April 2006 in Basel. As the world's biggest and most important showcase for the industry, BASELWORLD is the ideal place for conducting business and networking. BASELWORLD is the industry highlight of the year in an environ¬ment of increasing worldwide demand for luxury goods.

Market analysts recommend buying shares in the largest companies in the luxury goods industry, against a background of increasing worldwide demand for luxury goods. The industry is showing a resilience which impresses many experts, with the sector increasing its global sales by over five percent last year. Expectations are even higher this year with BASELWORLD consolidating its position in this highly buoyant environment, as the largest and most important showcase for the industries involved. Over 2,100 exhibitors from the watch and jewellery industries in 45 countries will display their latest collections and product ranges in 160,000 m2 of space. Many exhibiting companies will again have an exclusive presence at BASELWORLD.

The Israel diamond industry will be upgrading its brand identity with an international campaign to be launched at Baselworld 2006. The new brand is the result of an extensive strategic research process led by the Israel Diamond Institute (IDI) over the past year, in association with Parazar Brand Boutique.

Cheers may have greeted the silk and satin dresses at retailer Bebe Stores' (BEBE) first runway collection, but the din could not cover the grumblings of some on Wall Street, who believe the retailer's foray onto the catwalk is misdirected.

The mall-based chain, known for its body-hugging sexy fashions aimed at women in their 20s and 30s, broke with the prevailing convention that says retailers don't do runways.

But, in what Bebe founder Manny Mashouf called a long-time dream, the company presented its Collection Bebe, a high-end line of gowns, short dresses, skinny pants and sheer blouses, all influenced by the elegant design of the tulip, at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios.

Forget satin, silk and cashmere. Denim took center stage at this year's Los Angeles Fashion Week in a reminder to fashion watchers that premium jeans mean big business.

"Why is it we should have runway shows for denim?" asked 30-year jeans veteran Paul Guez rhetorically.

"They do more business than most other brands, than most (apparel) companies in Europe... This is the new generation of runway businesses that are alive and well, profitable -- and very cute."

Guez is chief executive of Blue Holdings Inc., whose brands Antik Denim, Taverniti and Yanuk all took center stage at the shows.

Black denim was prevalent on the runway, with accents including military styling and distressed fabrics.

Jeans that retail for over $100 make up 1.5 percent of the total $12 billion market, according to market researcher NPD.

Guez described his portfolio and other rival premium jeans brands such as 7 For All Mankind and Citizens of Humanity as "high fashion, high-end denim that are not just denim."

Los Angeles-based fashion company and lifestyle brand, Von Dutch Originals, has once again expanded into a new product category by introducing a new line of premium sunglasses. Made in Italy, using the best lens technology and materials, Von Dutch Kustom Eyes is a complete line of Men's, Women's, and Unisex sunglasses. The line is a collaboration between Von Dutch's designers and top Italian manufacturers. The Von Dutch eyewear collection is broken down into two segments, Eyes and Kustom Eyes. Eyes, the more moderately priced of the two lines ($120-$150 retail), features injection-mold plastic frames that include graphic logos along the arms of the glasses. This new style of graphic application is a design concept that Von Dutch is proudly pioneering. Kustom Eyes, the ultra-premium segment of the line ($230-$550), features high-quality acetate frames, as well as nickel-free, hypoallergenic, stainless-steel frames.

When a company has set a goal and constructed a strategy around achieving that goal, if a new marketing effort does not help the company achieve that goal, don’t do it. I have experienced this too often in my public relations experience. Frequently businesses want to put out a release or do a promotion, and I ask, “Why? Will this achieve your goal? Will this sell more products, increase visibility, or achieve brand awareness?” Too often the answer is no and these marketing efforts are superfluous and the “why” is not communicated effectively.

Lange & Sohne’s Grand Lange 1

The in-your-face luxury lifestyle of hip hop stars, celebrities, and CEOs is quite noticeable. The “bling bling” trend slowly trickled down to the upper classes of many communities such as the wealthy suburbs of Great Neck, Long Island and the young socialite scene of Murray Hill, NYC. Let’s call up Cash Money Millionaires, a hip-hop group from New Orleans who coined the dictionary appended term ‘Bling-Bling’, and break the big news: ‘Bling’ is out and class is in. When speaking of watches, we are blinded by the over large glistening watch facades on a man’s wrist. Its time to leave the chunk of metal at home and crack the low key-high cost option in men’s wrist time pieces. A man’s net-worth is no longer displayed by the amount of glitz his watch contains. Simple luxury is the new trend. A simple silver face with a black leather strap will do the trick. The new watch sizes are quite smaller in size, ranging from 35 millimeters to 40millimeters. ‘Jacob The Jeweler’, a luxury celebrity Jeweler, is known for producing some of the largest watches in the industry, ranking in at about 50millimeters in diameter.

Jacob & Co’s Five Time Zone Watch

Jacob is now producing watches with smaller face sizes, about 40millimeters in order to follow the new trends. By no means will these watches save you cash- A. Lange & Soehne has their version up for grabs at a cool $34,300. This new trend comes at the most perfect time; the BASELWORLD luxury watch and jewelry show in Basil, Switzerland from March 30 - April 6. Over 85,000 luxury retailers will come together to show off their Nouveau ‘Bling’ for 2007.

After two years of attempting to become the male version of Lucky magazine, Conde Nast's Cargo magazine has folded. According to inside sources, editorial director Thomas Wallace relayed the unfortunate news to the staff this afternoon. Cargo actually becomes the third related publication to call it quits along with Sync and Vitals. With readership and advertising a consistent struggle, Cargo only sold an average of 73,909 copies per issue on the newsstand. According to a media database, Cargo has a subscriber total of over 1.5 million, higher than Conde Nast powerhouse, GQ. A full story will run in tomorrow’s issue of WWD.

I’m so over the whole Jessica Heartbroken headline. Enough is enough. How many covers can she grace? How many secret leads can we read about? How many bad movies do we have to endure? She capitalized on her marriage and rose to the top and now she called quits on the one thing that made her blossom – Nick! It’s pathetic, we all agree but let’s move on.

Latest news with JS is that she’s transforming herself from pop star to politician for a good cause. For a good cause? For publicity! There’s no fooling us, JS – how long can you play the “I’m a great girl who got hurt” card? In a recent press conference, JS commented “I really hope I can make a difference” in response to inquires about her March 16th trip to the Capital Building for Operation Smile.

Call me skeptical but I just can’t seem to believe that’s she’s genuine. It’s all about success – great marriage (Newlyweds), ok voice (new album), didn’t do well so let’s wear nothing and wash a car (These Boots are Made for Walkin, Dukes of Hazzard), failing marriage (every celebrity weekly cover in the world), innocent divorcee (Employee of the Month, shoe and clothing line, Capital building). Do you see a trend? And JS is playing it oh-so-very-well. “Confessing” to the press on her nervousness at the Capital building she commented “I wish I could’ve just gotten up on stage and sung ‘These Boots are made for Walkin’. To entertain is what I know naturally, but to go in to Congress and talk on behalf of a charity was incredibly humbling.” Aww – did your publicist help you memorize sound bytes? Job well done! Please JS, you’re not fooling me. Her close friends are commenting “She’s in the phase of her life now where she wants to use her celebrity for good.” What they really should be saying is: “She’s in the optimal phase in her life where there is enough buzz around her to get the most press, endorsements, deals, etc so she’s got to take advantage of EVERYTHING.”

Hard to believe JS at the Capital when I turn on MTV and she's wet on the car! I think I agree with PINK --- “stupid girl”!

ENOUGH with the breakup. Enough headlines. Write a good song and sing it well or take acting lessons and really work it on camera and then maybe I’ll be compelled to believe you when the only talent you seem to be showing is being famous. ENOUGH!

Out of the mouth of babes …

Fashion Alert: The Scottish style and fashion culture is permeating through America, only brave men can submit.

Years ago, if you saw a man wearing a kilt in the streets of New York, you would assume that he is some sort of wanna-be fashionista, a freak, or a displaced Scott. Our fashion trends are becoming more liberal and risqué`, especially with the idea of sporting a Scottish kilt. The very masculine plaid pattern, also known as Tartan, is slowly poppin’ up on the scene, especially during this year’s official Kilt Day; Thursday, March 29.

If you’ve got the beans to wear a kilt, go for it. If you are not comfortable pulling in the Scottish culture into your American social sphere, be sure to get acquainted with it at this year’s Tartan Week in New York, April 1-8 where they transform Grand Central Station into a Scottish Village. Experience the vibrant contemporary Scottish culture as you enjoy live performances, food and whisky, and of course men in Kilts.

It is not rare that you will see a burly, over-confident man wearing a modern day kilt at a rock concert, at your local dive bar, or even hiking up a mountain. These men have coined themselves “Bravehearts”. “We are an international band of men who enjoy the freedom, comfort, pleasure, and masculine appearance of kilts or other male unbifurcated (skirt-like) garments, and who reject the absurd notion that males must always be confined to trousers.” They are comfortable, fashionable, and quite sexy. One company, Utilikilts is marketing modern- style kilts to men of all types and ages. “Who are these people? The answer is - they are you. There is no demographic. They come from all walks of life, and a variety of social, and cultural strata. The Utilikilts anthropology team has determined that the only common denominator amongst them, is self-possession and courage. Our customers dare to be comfortable.” Right Said Fred is apparently too sexy for his “21st Century Kilt”.

What do sex tapes have to do with work? Nothing really, unless you work in the adult industry. Just to be sure though, our friends at NBC’s The Office have filmed some new PSA’s including advice on the downfalls of interoffice relationships, suggestions for healthy afternoon snacks and hints on event invites. One announcement even has tips about lipstick, and as beauty publicists, we are always looking for fun, new makeup tricks to help us pitch stories.

To see the PSA’s from the stars of The Office, click here.

Another week has passed and one more contestant has been voted off Fox's smash-hit American Idol. And though everyone is debating over which contestants will make it to the final three, there is a lot of fighting going on over Taylor Hicks' gray hair.

“Just because you sing like you have an old soul doesn’t mean you should look old,” stated an inside source close to Hicks.

Even Life & Style is weighing in on the debate, publishing an artist’s rendering of what Taylor would look if he went for a more sophisticated chocolate brown. Is there room for compromise in an industry that is driven by looks? According to the show’s hairstylist, Dean Banowetz, there is some middle ground when it comes to Hicks' hair.

“I want him to go a little darker and a little richer but still keep some of his gray,” Banowetz told Life & Style. “After All, it’s his trademark.”

http://www.zara.com/v06/index.html
Can fashion be copyrighted? Well, if the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has its way, affordable retailers such as H&M and Zara will be hurting in sales…and designs. Apparently, high fashion designers like Zac Posen are peeved that retailers can “knock off” their designs, according to yesterday’s New York Times Style section. It seems as if the CFDA is trying to get Congress to pass a law against these so-called “knock offs.”

Is there anything you can’t access from your iPod these days? First it was just your favorite music. Then came the books, pictures, and music videos. Eventually, PumpPod came onto the scene, allowing you to take your work-out routine wherever you go. But now you can also gain access to The Tents on your iPod too! Yes, I mean the tents where the world gets the first glimpse of what designers have to offer in the upcoming season! For those who cant go a minute without a fashion fix, this is a godsend. All they have to do is go to the iTunes Music Store and download edited highlights for $1.99 each.