Fashion PR division of Pierce Mattie Public Relations, A Fashion Public Relations. Fashion publicity, promotion marketing firm

Please be sure to visit the NEW Pierce Mattie Public Relations blog on its new URL, just add the word "public relations" after Pierce Mattie and omit the word blogs: www.piercemattiepublicrelations.com


Other Pierce Mattie PR Division Blog Locations:
The Beauty Pro Division A professional beauty and cosmetics industry blog.
The Fashion Rag Fashion, design and style blog Co-written by Jason Jobson & Shannon Nelson.
The Jewelry PR Division Jewelry, precious metal and accessory industry blog.
The Fitness PR Division Our sports fitness, health and club industry blog.
The Industry Dirt Blog Media Industry Blog.

See you there!

When you think of knitting and crocheting, does your mind immediately envision a cute little elderly woman sitting in a rocking chair, hair in a bow whipping up a sweater or blanket? Actually that is exactly what I thought when East London twins, Calliste and Carissa Yeboah, approached me about their indie fashion brand, Made With Hands. However, this is yet another one of those times when you shouldn't judge a book by its cover--nor that part about making assumptions.

Made With Hands creates simple, hand-made pieces with 100% natural fibres. There's something about their style that gives me an air of London underground and reminds me of The Clash. While their products are sold in the UK, you can get a look at their Bobble Necklace at the New York Design Center.

I actually think their Bobble Makeup Bag is pretty unique and I'd probably more want to use it as a purse than to simply leave it on my vanity collecting dust. You've got to admit, these twins really took something ordinary and made it extraordinary. Made With Hands really gives a unique spin on traditional and gave me a new way to look at "knitwear."

See for yourself at www.MadeWithHands.co.uk 

Copyright: The Fashion Rag 

I discovered the very talented NYC Fashion Designer Boaz David several months ago. I loved his line of rocker chic style clothing and have anxiously awaited his Spring 2008 collection. Back then, Boaz mentioned to me that he would really love to design a menswear line. So it's no surprise to me to find that his Spring line is menswear-inspired. This Spring the Boaz girl definitely exudes sex appeal while not forgetting her rocker roots.

Shannon: What was the inspiration for your spring line?

Boaz: Menswear with details, such as the welt back pockets that are a classic menswear detail. Pockets and geometric patterns, such as stripes and plaids, are also very menswear related. There are actually 2 groups in the line: one that is more ‘dressy day wear’ with pants that can be paired with tank tops and flats for more of a casual look or with a sexy top or button down shirt and pumps for a dressier look. The second group is just for casual wear.

Shannon: What were the fabrics used?

Boaz: It’s all garment dye and wash, stretch cotton fabrics that are being sewn and then dyed and stone washed for 45 minutes, for a worn and soft look. The fabrics include a lot of stripes, pinstripes and seersuckers as associated with menswear.

Shannon: What is your favorite piece in the collection?

Boaz: Actually the short sleeve shirt with the tie in the same fabric is a shirt that I like, mostly because of the different ways you can wear it. It looks great and very "career woman" with the wide leg pant and high heels, or it can be a cool & fun in more of a downtown look with a black straight leg jeans style pant, as well as, easy and laid back without the tie.

Shannon: Does the small red x have a meaning?

Boaz: The red X is just an extension of the big X I had on the pockets last season and I wanted it to be more of like a branding detail to recognize and distinguish my line from the rest.

Shannon: Who is the Boaz girl this Spring?

Boaz: She is a metropolitan girl who works, lives and has fun in the city. She is looking for sophisticated, chic items that she can wear throughout the day, to work, dinner and drinks; from being a boss at work to an opening at night…

You can find Boaz online at www.boaznyc.com.

Copyright: The Fashion Rag

A photo team based in Los Angeles, Gaelle Morand and Chris Zwirner have been working together since 2003. They combined their mutual love of fashion photography as well as their unique talents, to create visually stunning images. Both have a long history rooted in the Film Industry, which provide them with a unique versatility.

Shannon: How did the two of you cross paths?
Morand & Zwirner: Gaelle and myself are neighbors. I think our paths crossed initially in the laundry room. We both were working in the film business, she doing CGI work as a “Look Development Artist”, me as a “Gaffer.” It led to discussions about lighting and photography. Gaelle was actively doing shoots where I, had taken a long hiatus from picture taking. I began to pitch in on some of her shoots to help with the lighting. Through that, I was inspired to pick the camera back up. We began to organize shoots together in the hope of building individual portfolios. It became clear that we complimented each other well. The deficiency of one was compensated by the other. Instead of trying to do it alone, we decided it made more sense to work as a team. Plus, we like to work together so why not?

Shannon: With backgrounds in the film industry, what inspired you to choose photography over film as your career path?
Morand & Zwirner: Creative control, the desire to nurture your own vision, and see it to completion. Both of our jobs required us to utilize our creativity, just not to its highest potential and in a very limited scope. The final “look” of the projects we were involved in was always at the discretion of others and at times, we had no control over what projects we were working on. It became a “job” and although we were both well paid at what we did, something was missing. Plus, the hours we were both keeping in the film industry began to affect our quality of life.

Shannon: Do you have a mentor or another photographer you admire? What are the qualities about this person that help you learn and grow in your craft?
Morand & Zwirner: We respect the work of many photographers. Each seems to have something particular that resonates with us. Be it Nigel Parry’s portraiture work, Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott’s or Gray Scott’s fashion spreads. I am a big fan of Gregory Crewdson, his lighting is amazing!

Shannon: What is your signature style of photography?
Morand & Zwirner: A cinematic look is what we think would best describe it. Dynamic lighting, bold use of colors, the ability to be versatile. We are drawn to many “looks” or “styles,” I believe the specifics of the shoot will dictate the style. It is up to us to be versatile and able to capitalize on it.

Shannon: Where do you look to for ideas and inspiration for a shoot?
Morand & Zwirner: The ideas seem to come from nowhere, I get some of my best ideas while I am in the shower. Why? Who knows? Otherwise we are always looking at other peoples work, or shoots from the past. Taking bits and pieces and trying to fit all the things we like together.

Shannon: What is the most important part of a successful shoot?
Morand & Zwirner: The most important part is a clear vision of what it is you are there to capture. Surrounding yourself with a talented and enthusiastic crew is very important, as well. Combine that with a positive “can do” energy, and you have a good recipe for success.

Continue reading "Pierce Mattie PR Interviews Fashion Photographers Gaelle Morand & Chris Zwirner" »

Before I headed to Paris earlier this month, I took a small detour and headed south to Miami for what has become one of the most important art shows in the United States.
Art BaselMiami is the sister show of Art Basel - Switzerland which has been the leading art fair worldwide for over 35 years.
The concept of having the show in Miami was really a win/win for everyone involved. It gave the hippest art crowd an excuse to go to the beach in December. Miami is not just any beach - the white sand of the southern shores of Florida are some of the finest beaches in the world.
With over 200 galleries showcasing their latest "find" or showing off their partnerships with established giants - it goes without saying- there was much to see!
The show is easy to navigate as most of the action takes place in the Miami Convention center that is steps away from Ocean Drive and super easy to get to and fro.
The city becomes a zoo and as the show has become more and more commercial - there are people walking around you would never expect to have anything to do with an art show. Like fashion week in New York and the Oscars in L.A. - Art Basel is a reason for being and many people head to Miami to be part of the action. The difference with the art show is you can buy your way in.. unlike Fashion Week or the Oscars - art shows actually have an admission price.

As the crowds are now overwhelming - it makes sense to get yourself settled in a great hotel. My personal favorite while in Miami is The Raleigh. The property is historic and the moment you start up the curved driveway - your taken to another place. There are black and white photos the re-tell the glamour days of Miami's hey day back in the 40's and 50's.
Andre Balazs is the man responsible for this dream of a hotel. He is the chic hotelier that brought you the Mercer in NY and the Chateau Marmont in L.A.
He has an amazing talent for providing the chicest hotels for the coolest crowd without any of the pretentious insanity that has become the norm these days. One of the highlights is the most beautiful pool in all of South Beach.
With all the things to do and see, between South Beach for the Art scene and the Bal Harbour shops for the fashion scene - you have to schedule time to relax!

There were parties and dinners and after parties all over town. I was really pleased to be invited to the premiere dinner of The Supper Club NY in MIami. If you haven't read about it yet, it's the latest members only social group that is bringing together the coolest NY'ers and those in the know over dinner. The NY events have been hosted in some very impressive private homes as well as those restaurants where it is hard to get a reservation this month. I was happy to be seated next to Tasmin Lonsdale, the founder of the Club and one the cutest export's London has had in a very long time! Lonsdale is witty and talkative and just exactly the right type of person to be organizing social events.

The Raleigh was a great host and set up a long table for 30 alongside the pool. The ladies from Miami at the dinner really has great personal style. One gorgeous gal was 5 months pregnant- but I couldn't even notice until she abstained from drinking champagne. She was rocking a black baby doll dress with great jewelry and black Jimmy Choo heels. Who says Pregnant women can't be sexy! Of course, she happened to be the P.R. wiz for Neiman Marcus in Coral Gables- so it should be no surprise she knew how to put a look together! I have to say the only disappointment at the dinner were the other NY'ers there! I never met such a group of desperate name droppers in my life! Bravo Miami - your in crowd know who they are.. and don't have to brag, brag, brag!

Continue reading "ART BASEL - A NEW MIAMI VICE..." »

Runway fashion now has a magazine to call home. Unlike any other magazine I have read, New York Look has me mesmerized. Not to be confused with their Look Book; New York Look has a sense of fashion all its own. It found its way to my mailbox last week and I haven't been able to put it down since. A chronicle of events that occur during Fashion Week, this is a magazine that you will look at every page with wide eyes, and each time, discover something new. New York Look literally gave me goosebumps.

If you've ever attended Fashion Week or are one who goes from blog to blog to hear all about the runway shows and the trends that emerge, this magazine is for you. Covering every angle and even delving into minute detail, New York Look gives you an insider's view backstage, front row and even atop the runway. Emerging trends, tried and true classics and unique fashion pieces are displayed side by side throughout the pages in brilliant colors that capture your attention and leave your heart racing.

Published only twice a year, I already cannot wait to get my next issue. You will be breathless, you will be captivated--you will be mesmerized. If you weren't obsessed with Fashion Week before, you will be now.

Find it on online at NYMag.com, but believe me--you'll want the print version!

*Photo Credit: NyMag.com

The dynamic duo of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana paid a visit to New York City for the first time in two years this past week. No, it wasn't to see the lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center. The reason for their visit was the re-opening of their namesake boutique on Madison Avenue. The boutique has had a full face-lift and is beautiful. Now the two designers are no strangers to the big Apple or to face lifts for that matter! (google pictures of the two to watch the progression) With a larger than life image and Ad campaigns featuring naked male models whenever possible, D&G should be commended for having the nerve to push the envelope year after year. The boutique is clean, sleek and don't forget Gold. They love gold and even opened a restaurant in Milan called Gold!

In other D&G news, Mr. Beach boy himself Matthew McConaughy was spotted shooting new ads for the brand. Shocking to see him fully dressed I know! He even made it to the party and yes - kept his clothes on.

FENDI took the concept of runway to a whole new level last month. The Italian fashion house staged their runway show atop the great wall of china! The show was the first for both the wall and the fashion house who is owned by LVMH. While the event got great press, it is strange timing - considering the backlash building from reports that several "luxury" companies are producing goods sweatshop style in China and sending them back to Italy for a "made it Italy" tag to be sewn in. Author Dana Thomas wrote an excellent report of the state of affairs happening in the luxury sector titled Deluxe - how luxury lost its lustre. Published by Penguin press, the book has started a conversation that is getting louder and louder!

Madonna is hitting the fashion scene once again in early February to help Gucci unveil its new boutique (don't gag) in Trump Tower in NYC.
Never one to miss an opportunity to help out a charity - the party will benefit her charitable foundation Raising Malawi and UNICEF.
Also in the news this week is Madonna's battle with her NY co-op who appear to be trying to prevent her from buying the next door neighbors apartment to expand her Central Park West digs. Who did they think they were dealing with? some shrinking violet??

**the title of this post was an homage to the BEP song "my humps". - not the real version but the parody by Alanis Morisette

ZenTrend.com is a haute online fashion spot that not only sells unique designs from undiscovered talent (which sometimes I find is the best fashion), but ZenTrend has a unique fashion tool called iStyler which lets people vote on designs submitted by unknown designers from around the world. The winners of the poll will then have their designs manufactured by ZenTrend and sold through ZenTrend.com. Amazing, right?

Each design that is sold on ZenTrend.com has a customer review section so you can see what others have said about the pieces showcased. I absolutely love how each product sold on ZenTrend is given multiple pictures so that you can see exactly how the piece fits and the detail to the garment. A great example is of the Chiffon Halter Dress with Shell Belt; in the head to toe shot the detail in the belt and the small sequin design that outlines the neckline of the dress are barely visible. However, with the closeup image provided you get a clearer picture of what the dress looks like, giving you that mental imagdry as if you were right there in the store seeing it first hand.

ZenTrend showcases tops, skirts, dresses and Pashmina shalls all in luxurious fabrics, most with intricate details and embroidery. My favorite is the Chiffon and Brocade Dress, but I also have my eye on the silk Brocade Skirt with that gorgeous red belt...I think Jason mentioned in an earlier post seeing red everywhere while in Rome, this skirt immediately made me think of him.

So whether you are looking for an indie designer to purchase from or you are an aspiring designer looking to get a jump start, ZenTrend.com is the perfect place for fashion.

With all the "reality" shows that run the networks these days, it is so refreshing to discover a novel that you can dive into as a distraction to all the noise around us. Yes, thats right - remember books? I know you can read!! I recently tore through one I could not put down and had to share it.
The Last Day of Paradise is one of those books you pick up because of the interesting cover art and unusual title. It doesn't take long to discover the double entendre of the title and realize the book is not at all what you thought. That is how the best works of fiction usually hook you. What you think is coming doesn't - and what you find you weren't looking for!
The book is the coming of age story of a young girl named Sunday living in Greece. Her and her friends reject their parents repressive ideas of family and culture that shackle them to the past. The kids speak English to each other as a code of cool talk and to liberate themselves from the world of the past that lingers on.
The author, Kiki Denis was herself born and raised in Greece and is a longtime New Yorker. She is able to make us feel that sense of longing that is universal for any young person growing up in a small town. It is that universal ambition for more that we can all remember- the desire to expand your horizons and get out and see the world.
A first time author Ms. Denis uses a wonderful technique of switching into a unique dialect of broken English mixed with contemporary slang - so much fun to read and process!
Denis herself is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College which is one of the most prestigious Universities in America. Actually, it is the founding University of the Seven Sisters - a network of Universities exclusively for Women to be the female alternative to the Ivy League schools for men. For Kiki to write in this broken English style must have been a challenge. In her own way, it is a poignant commentary of the culture that raised her and to remind us just how much things have changed.
The story has twists and turns and takes you on a wonderful journey that is at times hysterical and at times very emotional - never an easy task. There is also a great fashion tie-in woven through the story.

The novel has gotten attention from some major competitions and important book reviews. Denis received an honorable mention in the
2007 Hollywood Book Festival (category: wild card) for her work.

Published by Gival Press, the easiest way to find it is to click on the title link above. The book is a perfect read to take on a weekend trip or better yet to give as a gift this holiday season.
If anyone has already read the story, please let us know your thoughts!

Land on the front page of the fashion boutique Benny & Shaw, and you'll be captivated by the gorgeous ruby colored satin ball gown from Butter by Nadia (I know I certainly was). Benny and Shaw is a start-up internet boutique created by a husband and wife team in New York City--and where else to start a fashion boutique other than in one of the great fashion capitals of the world?

Benny & Shaw started out with only a few local lines and are now expanding to include other lines that will be available come Spring. Currently, their best selling designer collection is Butter by Nadia, creator of the "miracle" signature wrap dress; a comfortable, convertible, one size clothing line--which really looks amazing on women of various sizes (I desperately want the Verena Top in Charcoal!). Butter by Nadia has a celebrity following too..such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Naomi Watts, and Jordin Sparks just to name a few. If you happen to planning your nuptials, Benny & Shaw also offer Butter Bridal as well.

Jewelry is another find on Benny & Shaw's boutique. They currently carry New York fashion jewelry line sensation Andrew Hamilton Crawford. His pieces are inspired by everyday objects, such as a bluebird or a butterfly and with each concept taken it is refined into a chic piece of jewelry. His celebrity clientele include Oprah, Beyonce, Fergie and Paris Hilton.

Popular New York City jewelry designer Keri Starker of Kayla Designs is also found on Benny & Shaw. She creates one of a kind timeless pieces with stunning semi-precious stones and fine metals. Currently Benny & Shaw are the exclusive online retailer of this line.

So start your holiday shopping now or just splurge on yourself and head over to www.bennyandshaw.com.