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

What is Haute Couture? Is it the same as Couture? Check out Fashion-Era.com and Pauline Weston Thomas will give you a quick little lesson on what makes couture "Haute".

Haute Couture is a French phrase for high fashion. Couture means dressmaking, sewing, or needlework and haute means elegant or high, so the two combined imply excellent artistry with the fashioning of garments. The purchase of a haute couture model garment is at the top level of hand customised fashion design and clothing construction made by a couture design house. A model haute couture garment is made specifically for the wearer's measurements and body stance. The made to measure exclusive clothes are virtually made by hand, carefully interlined, stay taped and fitted to perfection for each client.

Interesting interview with Cathy Horyn of the New York Times. Cathy shares Julie Fredrickson's viewpoint on the need to take bloggers seriosly. Also discussed, Cathy's take on personally blogging and the "imaginary" conflict that some luxury brands feel when it comes to blogging about luxury. I'm sure if Billy Daily was still working at KCD he would have let Julie from Coutorure Media in to see the Mark Jacobs show at the Spring collections fashion week. Other sources for coverage are: New York Magazine, Fashion Week Live website, with coverage by Lauren Ezersky

I fell in love with Mango as a teenager while on my first European trip. I remember the Spain based clothing retailer Mango as the one place where all of the clothes fit my hour glass shape perfectly and had a playful yet sophisticated look that often evaded American designers. While other European based clothing retailers, such as H & M and Zara, expanded to the US, Mango remained a European treasure.

In the beginning of November it was announced that Sophia Kokosalaki would soon be designing shoes for Payless. For this Fall season, it was Laura Poretzky, who designed Abaete for Payless winter collection. Much to the surprise of trend watchers and even Payless, most of the collection has sold out and has been a major hit in the select 400 stores Abaete for Payless was sold in. So what can Payless do, except extend their contract with Laura Poretzky to design another seasonal collection?

I’m sure that this is only the beginning for Payless. As trends are showing the popularity, not to mention the increase in sales, that top designers coming to the department store level have exhibited. There is no where to go but up with increasing designer shoes made available for the general public at a reasonable price.

I haven’t graced a Payless shoe store since the beginning of the summer, but wonder if the same quality is put into these “public” designer shoes as is in the private label designs. Although, I can’t help but be excited that fashion designers are making their brands more affordable and available to the average consumer. As Target’s motto goes, “Design for All.”

Love the fashion on the popular Showtime drama The L Word? Then you are in luck because Showtime and some pretty fabulous designers have teamed up to create a limited edition apparel, jewelry and accessory line inspired by The L Word. There are select stores in major cities that will be showcasing this line, but if you don’t live close to them, you can always shop the “L”ements of Style collection online at Love and Pride; the line premiers on January 3rd and will be available through February 28th.

The designers involved are Laura Dahl, Blue Cult, Honey Labrador, Udi Behr, Cate Adair and Tali Epstein Segal. “L”ements of Style consists of casual tops, denim jeans and a skirt, handbags (I am in love with the messenger handbag) and jewelry. While on the Showtime website you can even select the Virtual Fashion Show icon and watch Honey Labrador model the items you select from the clothing line. Honey Labrador is not only one of the contributing designers, but she is also an international model and considered a top lesbian icon. Her contribution to the “L”ements of Style collection is the premier of her Honey L Designs label.

Showtime will be donating at least 10% of their profits from "L"ements of Style to the Susan G. Komen Foundation and Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation, both purveyors of finding a cure for breast cancer.

If you are feeling creative, Showtime is hosting a contest beginning January 5th in order to find the hottest T-Shirt design for the “L”ements of Style. They will also be holding a sweepstakes beginning January 8th where the winner will receive a $5000 New York City shopping spree (sign me up please!) Be sure to keep your eyes glued to Showtime’s website for more details on these two contests and for more information about "L"ements of Style.

PRIMEDIA Enterprises and TS2 are collaborating to launch a new apparel line dubbed “Busby Ltd.” under the Surfer brand. Surfer, a magazine and brand known for his global reach and connection with passionate surfing enthusiasts, has been around since 1960. With such a connection to loyal surfing die-hard’s, it is only the next logical step to extend its branding into its core market that sees surfing as a lifestyle.

The Busby Ltd. label will create a line of Surfer branded shorts and board shorts, t-shirts, sweatshirts and headwear for boys, as well as men’s t-shirts, sweatshirts, and headwear. Also under this label a lifestyle apparel line will launch called JOB Apparel Collective and a shorts-focused line of authentic plaids called TARTAN. All retail lines will become available at the retail level come Spring 2007.

The focus of this apparel line is to keep true to the authentic surfing culture, which is one that is deep and passionate about their lifestyle. Launching this apparel line only deepens Surfer’s connection with its consumers, whom identify the Surfer brand as the voice and authority on surfing.

Once this apparel line debuts, it will be interesting to see if surfers feel that Busby Ltd. has lived up to the Surfer name. For those who want a sneak peak prior to Spring, you can catch Surfer and its Busby Ltd. line at the Surf Expo this January.

You know him from That 70’s Show and Yo Momma, he co-owns three restaurants (Dolce, The Lodge and Geisha House), but now Wilmer Valderrama is looking to do more. It’s reported that he will launch a men’s fashion line called Calavena this February.

Calavena is said to be a clothing line that is a mix of Latino-inspiration and Diesel. The line will consist of jeans, t-shirts and jackets. Valderrama joins the ranks of many celebrities that are launching their own clothing lines such as Tommy Lee, Justin Timberlake and Gwen Stephani. The trend seems to be progressing with celebrities launching not only their own clothing lines, but fragrances as well, with a positive money making track record to boot.

Will this trend continue to move upward and remain successful or eventually bottom out?

Things just seem to be getting better for the stars of Desperate Housewives. They have a PC game; dolls being made in their likeness and now Eva Longoria has scored a two-year contract as the first ever spokesperson for Bebe Sport. The ads will be launched on billboards and in magazines this March and are the company’s first ad campaign.

Bebe Sport is an extension of the Bebe brand and was launched in 2003. Bebe Sport’s tagline is “Where Fashion Works Out” and certainly by the appearance of it’s line of sportswear, Longoria’s look fits in perfectly. Bebe Sport’s top’s and bottom’s definitely put a sense of style into workout wear, making it entirely possible to even wear some of the outfits out running errands without looking too underdressed.

Now there are no excuses for going to the gym looking frumpy.

When I came across a news headline regarding Ali Spizman, a few things captured my eye. Ali is only 19 years old, but has already published two books and designed handbags for Claire’s to raise funds for Make-A-Wish Foundation, of which she is a National Teen Ambassador for.

While this is not breaking news, Spizman designed Handbag of Hope in 2005, I have to say first and foremost, how refreshing is it to see a teenager doing something positive and giving of themselves to others? Secondly, my very dear friend passed away from terminal cancer at the age of 23 in 2001. She was granted a wish through Make-A-Wish before her death and since her passing I have tried to faithfully make a donation to the charity on the anniversary of her death and birthday each year since. My friend Elke, who also had a good friend pass away from cancer at a young age, is involved in the Make-A-Wish Foundation as well, and as a Celebrity Makeup Artist is able to grant wishes.

If you have not heard of Ali Spizman or have seen her Handbag of Hope, you simply need to do so. Ali was inspired by a 12-year-old terminally ill child by the name of Hope whose wish was for all of the children in her area to be granted their wishes. A radio show interviewed Hope before her death, which resulted in the raising of $1.1 million dollars in 4 weeks for the charity. Spizman was inspired and decided to carry on Hope’s mission by creating her signature handbags. The handbags are sold at Claire’s with a minimum of 10% of the profit going to Make-A-Wish Foundation. To date, Handbag of Hope has raised $300,000.

Thanks to a fabulous post on Fashion Indie, I came across H.O.R.R.S., otherwise known as Habana Outpost Recycled Reject Shop (try saying that ten times fast). Although the name may be a tongue twister, the genius behind this shop will have you tongue-tied.

Lopeti Etu and Sean Meenan are the founders of this eco-friendly fashion shop which began with Meenan encouraging Etu to use the scraps from his friend’s silk screening company to create designs of his own. Etu, who studied design at the Fashion Institute of Technology, went to work and began creating one of a kind pieces mixing old with new.

Recently H.O.R.R.S. opened The Stroll, their retail shop located in Brooklyn to sell their designs. The Stroll is not only a clothing store, but also a community hang out. The Stroll has events such as Game Night, Knitting and Crocheting classes, a Book Club and Movie Night among other things (you can check out their calendar of events here). Etu and Meenan are more than retailers; they offer a sense of community, something that will bring them brand loyalty as a result.

If you are in the Brooklyn area, be sure to check them out!
The Stroll
109 S. Portland Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11217

Just when I thought I heard it all, Godfrey Deeny at FWD reminds me that I haven’t. In an article today about Milan’s newest runway looks, he points out that leggings were the theme at the Marni Men’s show. I was hoping that the skinny jean look for men would fade out, but to have it transfer over to leggings; oh say it isn’t so.

While certainly the model pictured from Marni’s collection looks pretty good in his burgundy colored leggings, how many guys do you know with the perfect legs to wear such attire (and make it look good)? I supposed in a sense it would be like wearing jogging pants, except a little tighter and a lot more stylish. Somehow I just can’t imagine this trend will take off, but then again I am sometimes surprised at what makes it from the runway into my own closet.

What do you think of this new trend for men?

One thing I have found about Indie designers and the places that carry their collections, are how down to earth and personable they are. Girlshop and its online companion sites of Guyshop and Totshop are no different. You get a great place to shop for indie fashion while being made to feel like you are part of a family. You are, in fact, part of the indie family when you take part in purchasing their special collections at places like Girlshop who only showcase and sell indie fashions.

From afar I have window shopped for a long time at Girlshop through their online store. Some of my current favorite pieces are the Secret Top by Marie Marie, LaRok Bubble Skirt and LaRok Carry Top I love the versatility that comes with browsing the collections at Girlshop. Each designer has their own flare that carries through each piece from top to bottom. Guyshop is just as trendy and fashionable, from Altru’s vintage inspired graphic tees to Kara Janx hip and modern style, Guyshop offers something for every taste.

Laura Eisman founded Girlshop eight years ago and its retail store became a reality in 2005. Since then Guyshop and Totshop have come to life online offering the best indie fashions at the best prices. Best of all, Laura and her husband Todd, have made the look and feel of their sites comfortable and fun at the same time. Their sites allow you to sign up for email alerts of the latest trends and sales, and who doesn’t want to be the first in the know?

You can visit Girlshop’s retail store at 819 Washington Street in the Meat Packing District of NYC or you can also visit all of their sites for your fashion addiction on the web 24/7, because who knows what time of day (or night) you will feel the urge to see what the latest trend is?

Lapo Elkann, heir to the Fiat empire and head of its brand promotion, has launched the first carbon fiber sunglasses under the Italia Independent brand. Elkann, who almost died in 2005 from a drug overdose, has come back in full force doing what he does best; designing and promoting accessories for the Fiat brand.

The sunglasses, the first to be made entirely out of carbon fiber, are the first “personal” accessories to be made by the Italia Independent brand. Sever, the name of the sunglasses, are said to be made of over 40 carbon skins and go through a special process ensuring that these sunglasses cannot be replicated as counterfeit. Their look and style also make them completely unisex. Italia Independent’s “Conceived, developed and produced 100% in Italy” is a new theme to promote pride in Italian craftsmanship and reinstate power of Italian luxury. The sunglasses will sell for 1,000 euros, which is $1300 in US dollars.

The theme of Sever and Italia Independent flow with Fiat’s branding promoting style, strength and Italian luxury. Will Fiat labeled fashion help increase loyalty and that must-have quality giving its cars and fashion accessories that “it” factor? What do you think?

When Cynthia couldn’t find anything less than white cotton, she took matters into her own hands. She went to a manufacturer with designs in mind, although she had absolutely no training in design, and had them create what has now become one of the first lingerie lines for nursing mothers. Who says that we need to wear matronly undergarments merely because we gave birth? You can see my rant about this back in our November archives.

Condessa Inc., which is based in Los Angeles, launched its first lingerie nursing line Condessa Cassandra to international acclaim. The line has no underwire, 18% spandex, lace cups, pearl snaps and satin shoulder straps for support. The Condessa Veronica line boasts beautiful colors, underwire support and drop down cups. The bras are made of Milliskin, allowing stretch while maintaining true cup size and support. The newest collection, Condessa Veronica, was shown this week at the Mom 2 Be show in Los Angeles and will launch here on the East Coast at Lingerie America February 7-9th. Each collection also has matching panties that come in a variety of styles.

I cannot help but want to send a personal letter to Cynthia expressing my sincere thanks in taking an interest in the part of fashion that most of the industry pushes aside. Many don’t think there should be anything sexy about motherhood, but beyond being a mother (and nursing mother at that) we are still women who crave to wear something sexy, yet comfortable and functional. More designers should follow her lead and they will soon find that they will be coming upon an untapped market desperately waiting for them.

I grew up in the 80’s and I can say we had some good fashion and we had some really bad fashion. The styles that I loved most seem to be coming back slowly but surely. Belt’s for one, are everywhere again. Whether they were small or large and worn over your clothing; belts have become “the” accessory to have. Scarlett Johansson designed Reebok’s newest fitness line with 80’s flair and now the masterful Stefano Pilati, has infused it into his men’s fashion runway show in Paris this past weekend.

Can you say peg leg trousers, over-sized jackets and roll-ups in pants? I am honestly excited to see trends from my youth make a comeback. We definitely need some fun back in our wardrobes, but this time with a little more fashion sense than before. Yves Saint Laurent’s picture slideshow of the men’s Fall/Winter 2007/08 collection makes me feel confident we are on the right track to re-emerging our youthfulness, but without the over-sprayed hair and fluorescent colors.

When you work for a designer with such creativity as Betsey Johnson, how can you not be inspired to venture out on your own and show the world your own talents? That is just what Jordi Scott is doing. Scott is a former designer for Johnson and decided to launch her own clothing line, which will debut on February 5th at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC.

The clothing line is inspired by modern art and punk rock and Scott says that the collection will be unlike anything else out on the market. You get a sense of that rock and roll feel from the minute you land on the homepage of her website with the Rolling Stones-like logo on the center of the page. The motto for Jordi Scott’s line is, “Trends come and go, but your spirit will always remain.” It will be interesting to see the styles and colors of her line, as her picture on her website reminds me very much of that punk rock look inspired by The Sex Pistols and The Clash back in the early 80’s.

You can keep up to date on Jordi Scott through her MySpace page and website. Her fashion show takes place on February 5th at Arena, located at 135 West 41st Street, at 9pm.

February 2nd:

The Tent: The Heart Truth Red Dress Collection 11:00am, BCBG Max Azria 3:00pm
The Salon: John Bartlett 10:00am, Marc Bouwer 5:00pm
The Promenade: Perry Ellis 1:00pm, Nicole Miller 7:00pm, Akiko Ogawa 6:00pm
W Hotel 594 Lexington Ave.: Yeolee
Roseland Ballroom: Baby Phat 8:00pm
Altman Building: Grey Ant 9:00pm

February 3rd:

The Tent: Lacoste 11:00am, Alexandre Herchcovitch 3:00pm
The Salon: Chris Han 10:00am, Alice Roi 1:00pm, Abaete 6:00pm, Venexiana 9:00pm
The Promenade: Maticevski 12:00pm, Atil Kutoglu 2:00pm, Sass & Bide 7:00pm
Showroom: Buckler 4:00pm, Cabbeen 8:00pm
Altman Building 135 W 18th St: Gustavo Arrango 5:00pm
Bumble & Bumble: Karen Walker 1:00pm
NYC Bar Association: James Coviello 2:00pm
Prince George Ballroom: ThreeAsFour 5:00pm

February 4th:

The Tent: Diane von Furstenberg 4:00pm, Naeem Khan 6:00pm, Matthew Williamson 8:00pm
The Salon: Lela Rose 10:00am, Twinkle by Wenlan 1:00pm, Terexov 9:00pm
The Promenade: Tadashi 11:00am, Tracy Reese 2:00pm, Tuleh 7:00pm
Showroom: Erin Fetherston 3:00pm
711 Greenwich Street: DKNY 12:00pm
Cunard Building 25 Broadway: Z Zegna 5:00pm
Exit Art: United Bamboo 3:00pm
Sony Music Studios: Luella Bartley 5:00pm
Waterfront Building: 3.1 Phillip Lim 6:00pm

It's -20 below zero and I am looking forward to warmer weather and the fashion that goes with it. To help you forget all about this deep freeze, here is a look at Diane von Furstenberg's Spring 2007 Collection that is available at Neiman Marcus.

H&M, who began their relationship with organic cotton in 2003, is ready to promote their new organic clothing collection next month. In the past, H&M’s organic cotton had focused mainly on their baby and children’s clothing line, but now it is being expanded into their women’s, maternity, denim and girl’s lines. Some say this is just a sign of the times.

Fashion and beauty brands continue to go beyond their product image and branch out into aspects that are eco-friendly. As I noted with Lancome and Diesel, H&M becoming more earth-conscious will be just one of the many brands that come forward this year with a greener focus. Whether they’re doing it to exploit a fearful future we all face with Global Warming or because they are truly committed to evolving their brand with a more earth friendly approach, being gentler on the environment benefits us all.

H&M won’t make their organic cotton lines a price point issue for consumers. While the H&M organics will have a special hang tag to clearly identify the clothing from regular H&M lines, the prices will not be much different, which will hopefully encourage more purchases from these lines.

Which brand do you think is next in the environmentally friendly trend? Stay tuned here for more fashion updates!

Stella McCartney well known for her fabulous collections, amazing collaborations and four year partnership with Adidas, will be launching yet another sportswear collection to the Adidas line. McCartney already has designed clothing under her name for Adidas for sportswear in the categories of Swimming, Gym, Running, Tennis, and now Gym Yoga.

As Yoga becomes more popular among mainstream fitness junkies, it’s only natural to add such a line, especially as her Adidas sportswear collections continue to increase in popularity. McCartney’s mission statement for her sportswear collections is: “This collection is for women who take their sport and their style seriously. Why should we have to compromise one for the other?” McCartney brings forward a sentiment that women have been feeling for a while and one that is beginning to materialize interest in designing more fashionable yet practical fitness clothing such as the case with Bebe Sport and also Reebok’s collaboration with Scarlett Johansson.

McCartney’s Gym Yoga Collection, as with all of her fashion house and Adidas collections, offer an innovative style with femininity. Her Spring/Summer Gym Yoga Collection premiers at stores later this month.

If you love Juicy Couture’s lifestyle brand of clothing and you happen to have the pitter patter of little feet ages 0-24 months crawling around your home, then you will be happy to know that Juicy Baby will be launching this Spring according to WWD. Juicy Couture, a Southern California brand, signed a deal with Tawil Associates to make, distribute and market Juicy Couture boys and girls apparel for newborns and infants, as well as layette clothes.

Juicy Couture is known for their pastel velour and terrycloth tracksuits and casual wear, as well as their expansion into handbags, shoes, jewelry, watches, fragrance, sunglasses and soon enough cosmetics and home products however, I wonder what they would call their cosmetics line as there is already a cosmetics company in Canada called Juicy Cosmetics.

Juicy Couture continues to increase in popularity not only here in the states, but globally as well. In April of 2006, they opened their first flagship location in Tokyo with plans to open many more stores throughout Japan. Juicy Baby is an expansion of their current lines that include men, kids, their regular Juicy line and Couture Couture.

You can find Juicy Baby at select Juicy store locations and at many of Juicy Couture’s wholesale accounts such as Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom’s.

Luxury brand Jimmy Choo, who was recently sold to TowerBrook Capital, is looking to move beyond their infamous footwear and leather good lines and expand into eyewear and fragrance. With new ownership, Tamara Mellon alongside her Creative Director Sandra Choi hope to make Jimmy Choo one of the most treasured luxury brands in the world.

According to WWD, Jimmy Choo will launch an eyewear collection by the end of the year and launch it’s first fragrance in 2008. Another brand expansion in the works is a runway collection of shoes that will start with the fall season. Jimmy Choo, a popular brand among fashionistas, it is also one sought after by many major celebrities.

The history of Jimmy Choo is quite interesting and it’s two acquisitions valued in the millions over the last two years show the investment and growth of the brand under Tamara Mellon’s direction. Now that TowerBrook Capital has acquired the brand with 80% share holding and Mellon still involved at 20%, I think Jimmy Choo’s cult following will only gain momentum as Mellon continues to take the brand in an uphill direction.

Maryam, New York City- Today I am in New York working with a client and the media. With New York Fashion Week out of the way what else is a Fashion Public Relations Girl to do but pass along some trend info on what to look for this Spring. All these items are available at Neiman Marcus and other online shopping sites.

Looking for the top 10 next big thing for Spring? Here's a quick guide and some of the Designers who gives us the best this season:

Dresses: Nanette Lepore Print Shift Dress, Stella McCartney Ruffled Trapeze Dress, Cynthia Steffe Tunic Dress

Delicate Blouses: 3.1 Philip Lim Handkerchief Blouse, Jill Stuart Elizabeth Silk Blouse, Jovovich-Hawk Floral Print Blouse

Cropped Jackets: MARC by Marc Jacobs Cropped Jacket, Juicy Couture Cropped Pea Jacket, Valentino Red Lace Cropped Jacket

Flat Shoes: Chloe Candbury Canvas Flats, Marc Jacobs Stampede Leather Mouse Shoes, Jimmy Choo Jola Leather Flats

Something Silver: Gucci Silver Guccissima Leather Belt, Burberry Silver Patent Platform, Yves Saint Laurent Metallic Tote

Wide Belts: Michael Kors Waist Belt, Nicole Miller Ruched Ruffle Waist Belt, Avignon Soft Leather Belt

Patent Leather: Manolo Blahnik Strappy Patent Sandal, Miu Miu Patent Leather Flats, Calvin Klein Patent Leather Belt

Eyelet: Tracy Reese Eyelet Top, Nanette Lepore Ahoy There Eyelet Dress, BCBG Max Azria Eyelet Kimono Top

Above the knee hemlines: Lela Rose Belted Silk Halter Dress, Temperley London Folk Embroidered Dress , Miu Miu Oversized Above the Knee T-shirt Dress

Statement Rings: Roberto Cavalli Stone and Serpent Ring , Stephen Dweck Oval Carnelian Ring, Barse Oversized Turquoise Ring

The designer brand superstore, Scoop, has opened a 10,000sqft megastore on Broadway that consists of a variety of categories to dress the family from head to toe. The store opened today while converting their previous space on Broadway into an outlet store called Scoop it Up.

The new home of Scoop is so large, that owner Stephani Greenfield will be adding categories to their current line up such as Scoop Home and expanding upon their beauty business, which will include skin care, candles and men’s fragrances. Scoop’s fashion brands include high end and low-end top designers such as Marc Jacobs, Lela Rose and Diane von Furstenberg. Price points meet all variations for these luxury lifestyle brands.

Scoop has a silent rivalry with Intermix, another lifestyle fashion store who is said to be upgrading their store to 5,000sqft. Now that Scoop is expanding into more than just clothing, such as handbags, shoes, jewelry and the expansions mentioned above, it will be interesting to see how Intermix will utilize and maximize their new space to compete with this megastore, which now appears to be a mega-competitor.

If you live in New York, Miami, L.A. or Chicago, then you've probably noticed more and more British accents as you go about your daily routine. With the British pound at the astronomical exchange rate of almost 2 to 1 to the US Dollar we've been holding a half off sale every day of the year!

The deals and steals going on in fashion are so tempting that British families are not only taking more vacation in the U.S, they are coming on long weekend shopping trips! Even if you factor in Airfare and Hotels, they are still finding bargains left and right. Remember, this is not like getting a discount at one store or in one category - its EVERYTHING. Restaurants - half price. Hotels - half price. Taxis - half price. I was in the Miami area a few weeks ago to pay a visit to what I think as one of the most luxurious shopping malls in the country. The Bal Harbour shops are an oasis in the middle of causeways, freeways, and no-ways that are so often part of the Florida experience. Once inside you are not in Florida anymore, you are in the state of Luxury!

Every major fashion designer in the world has shop there. The favorite lunchtime spot of the Madison avenue soial set - La Galoue even has an outpost there. There are palm trees surrounding Koi ponds that hold dozens are the most colorful koi you will ever see. On sunny days, you even find turtles sunning themselves on the rocks - all this while you contemplate that perfect shoe from Jimmy Choo or that dress in Magenta from Oscar de la Renta! It was on one of these perfect days that I strolled into one of boutiques that was having a Spring trunk show. The company is French and dominates the trunk show experience. I was in awe at the amount merchandise for sale, the amount of samples to pre-reserve, and just at the amount of people in the store - all excited to be previewing the new collection, all except one. I overheard a very pleasant sales associate being lectured by an unhappy British woman AKA Ms. London. She was telling the associate how she "never" saw anything like this in London. In London she informed the associate, the boutiques are always kept in impeccable order! The associate said she was sorry to hear that the customer was unhappy with the boutique and she explained that it was busier than usual due to the trunk show. Ms. London was not impressed and said she had been a model (must have been in the 50's!) and that things were NEVER This way. She pursed her lips for a bit and looked around and left. So Ms. London "Debbie downer" soured a moment of my perfect day.

I have spent alot of time in London myself and you know Ms. London was right. Boutiques on New Bond or Bruton Street or Brompton road are beautiful and they are luxurious - but they are not crowded! You see British women shop differently than Americans. British women are frugal. They typically go and browse for something once, twice, even three times before purchasing. The other major difference in London is that like it or not, there is still a definite class system in place. People who work in shops are treated as a lower class than the people shopping in such shops. There is distinct attitude towards sales associates and anyone that works in the service industry. The home of Big Ben can also be the place to find Big attitude by the ladies who shop for a living. The best example of the old school class mentality is found right in Harrods - the most famous department store in the U.K. - if not the world is owned by a non British citizen. Mohamed Al Fayed has been fighting to get citizenship for over a decade. Just log on to his website Alfayed.com to find out how he feels about the British establishment!

The uber fabulous Kenneth Cole has signed a deal with Lanier Clothes to launch a men’s tailored clothing line in the US. While Kenneth Cole is famous for their handbags, accessories and most importantly (at least to me) footwear, Lanier Clothes is known for their innovative yet old-world style tailoring.

Lanier Clothes is also owned by parent company Oxford Industries who happens to be one of the largest apparel manufacturers in the world. Haven’t heard of Oxford Industries? You are most likely to have heard of the brands and private labels they craft: Nautica, Dockers, Geoffrey Beene, Oscar de la Renta among others. I happen to love Geoffrey Beene and found them to have the only jeans that understand my hips post-baby. They are the only brand of jeans I have worn since 1999, although their website shows no indication of women’s clothing, they do indeed have a women’s section in store. I can attest to the quality of Oxford Industries Geoffrey Beene brand. I still have those same pair of jeans, now 8 years old that have only slightly faded, but otherwise look brand new.

The deal between the two brands appears to be a match made in fashion heaven. What Kenneth Cole does for shoes, Lanier can deliver upon and extend into clothing. This is a great way for Kenneth Cole to expand upon their brand and keep up with the expectations and quality standards we all have come to know and love.

The new clothing line, which will consist of suits, suit separates, sport coats, trousers and rainwear, will be distributed under Kenneth Cole New York, Kenneth Cole Reaction and Unlisted, a Kenneth Cole Productions label in the fall of this year. You’ll be able to find it nationwide within tailored clothing departments at major retail department stores and select specialty stores.

Everyone has an opinion, you can count on that, and opinions on the designers and their fashion shows at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is no different. Here are videos from various designers from Fashion Week in NYC with reviews from fashion editors and fashion bloggers alike. Be sure to check out Chic.TV coverage of fashion week on You Tube, for all the videos check out Chic.tv website, it's some of the better quality fashion footage I've seen this year.

Oscar de la Renta Watch Video

WWD: De la Renta’s collection was, in a word, dazzling, and not only in its well-controlled embroideries. It shone as well in its security; its grounded, cross-generational appeal and its fabulous expression of sporty luxe.
Fashion Week Daily: Oscar de la Renta's latest collection was designed with dames in mind. It’s all the contradictions real women have been clamoring for since the babydoll dress came back into fashion. We say: vive de la Renta!
Godfrey Deeny, Fashion Wire Daily: Oscar de la Renta is twice the age of most of the 200 odd designers who will stage shows in New York this season, yet when it comes to the attitude of his classy fashion, it's probably fresher than any of them and more in step with the real world.
Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan, WSJ Heard on the Runway: Designers may be collectively heralding a return to more polished dressing and tailored looks, but that’s probably not news to Oscar de la Renta, who has never veered far from his core mission of creating luxurious suits, ballgowns and accessories for the rich and famous.

Diane von Furstenberg Watch Video

WWD: Typically savvy fusion of the sensual and the sensible, but with a notable upgrade to the sophistication level, starting with the palette.
Fashion Week Daily: Though DVF's collection was decidedly dress-centric, that didn't equal a lack of variety. Even the black frocks, of which there were many, had an eye-pleasing uniqueness, and each one she sent one down the runway felt as fresh as the first time.
Nicole Phelps, Style.com: Her collection was singular in its focus on dresses. Many of the dresses came with matching coats, a nod toward the designer's sense of practicality, an asset that should serve her industry well in the coming months.
Godfrey Deeny, Fashion Wire Daily: Von Furstenberg’s fall 2007 collection was a swaggering tour through Iberian culture that inspired prolonged applause in Bryant Park. Though not exactly demure, it was ladylike, poised and entirely fitting for a stroll across St Peter's Square.
Rachel Michaela, Style Bites: The fall collection opened disappointingly with black on black. Sad, since DVF does color so well. At the worst moments (there was the linebacker-like jacket, then the metallic pewter monstrosity of a top and skirt, and at least one graphic dress nightmare) the models looked positively fat.


Doo. Ri Watch Video

WWD: The collection she presented on Tuesday wasn’t groundbreaking, but it showed hints of a step forward. The second half of the show, comprising variations on the jersey dress, often embellished with architectural crystal harnesses, felt a bit one-note and even lackluster.
Fashion Week Daily: Doo-Ri made a tentative foray into color, mixing a mellow, muted turquoise with burgundy and even a pop of lemon yellow. The collection seemed to find her in a transitional phase, gone were the cinched waists of seasons past, replaced by elongated torsos ending just above the hip.
Nicole Phelps, Style.com: The crystal cages and harnesses worn over her signature jersey dresses got a little complicated, and it would've been nice to see her work in colors other than bordeaux, emerald, and navy.
Suzy Menkes, International Herald Tribune: Doo-Ri Chung had a soft and graceful take on silk, draping it into a top over a bib of sequins and scooping up the sides of a jersey dress. The palette of wine, blue and peacock green made for a repetitive show, but its effect was youthful with a touch of romance.
Lauren Dimet, Second City Style: The bubble-hemmed jersey dresses and frocks began looking very repetitious, but the bordeaux and emerald printed Georgette dress with Swarovski crystal blew me away. She will do very well with this line. She is a crowd pleaser and so darn adorable and talented, you can't resist.

Carolina Herrera Watch Video

Fashion Week Daily: The designer seemed to be juggling a widening scope of references: a square, three quarter sleeve fur tunic worn over a straight plaid skirt paired with substantially spangled stockings for an almost grunge-like layered effect, adapted for the Park Avenue set; when the skirt's pattern showed up again in a bustier dress, the effect was nearer to Anglomania.
Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan WSJ Heard on the Runway: A polished collection featuring dresses made with perforated felt, coats with dramatic funnel-necked collars and tailored, slouchy jackets with wide lapels. Color-wise, she said her subdued palette of blue, “grape,” ash and bark was influenced by Edvard Munch’s somber portrait of Norwegian philosopher Hans Jaeger.
Nicole Phelps, Style.com: With dark menswear plaids and jacquards juxtaposed against the artistic detailing that has lately become a Herrera signature, the effect was altogether different from her confectionary-sweet spring outing.
Godfrey Deeny, Fashion Wire Daily: Herrera’s collection for fall 2007 oozed haute sophistication, from the remarkable jacquard coats to the stockings finished with jade.
Girlawhirl: Favorite new look are the pants, high waisted, slim through the hip and thigh and full through the rest of the leg to the ground where they flipped and flickered as the models walked.

Erin Fetherston Watch Video

WWD: Erin Fetherston showed froufrou dresses in fabrics that appeared a bit cheap, but her PYT friends are likely to find at least one star in the collection.
Fashion Week Daily: Erin Fetherston sent a sweet and lowdown little collection down her silver, star-spangled runway. For demurely divine, goddess-like evening gowns that closed the show, we'll be dreaming 'til they hit stores for sure.
Lindsay Sammon, Fashion Wire Daily: A memorable addition to this season’s collection was Fetherston’s use of the cape, shown with constellation and butterfly prints, and affixed to the back of dresses in a way that gave the garments lift and endless fluidity.
Meenal Mistry, Style.com: The collection occasionally ventured toward the less-sophisticated side of girlish with a couple of Lurex pieces, it was a solid effort that will keep the growing Fetherston fan base more than happy.
FabSugar: Erin Fetherston's designs are what little big girls dream about. Super feminine and girly, while remaining modern, here is a collection that wisks you away to a beautiful boudoir floating in space.

Louis Vuitton

Sarah Mower, Style.com The show felt a bit all over the place, but never mind: A lot of the women in the audience declared that, once the elements are merchandised for stores, they'll be going shopping.

Fashion Week Daily The show's cheeky title, "Girl with a Monogram Handbag," summed up all the season's components in one tidy tagline.

WWD The famed Dutchman’s canvases inspired Jacobs’ fall show for Louis Vuitton, making for a lovely though surprisingly low-key collection.

Miu Miu

Nicole Phelps, Style.com Despite all the (matron-meets-) porn-star allusions, this wasn't a sexy collection. And it won't necessarily be easy to wear, either. But in her characteristically thoughtful style, Prada has given everyone plenty to ponder on their long plane ride home.

Godfrey Deeny, Fashion Wire Daily Fashion’s most influential designer Miuccia Prada had her tongue planted firmly in her cheek in a collection that played girlishly with volume and jokingly repeated silhouette’s and outfits in the second half of the show, but in transparent gauze and gazzar.

WWD Still exuding a certain lofty Prada quirkiness, these pieces are bound to have more street legs than those gargantuan molded separates.

Nina Ricci

Sarah Mower, Style.com Theyskens laid on an irresistible finale of trail-y, ragged-edged white and chartreuse fantasy gowns, but still, the question about where he intends to take Ricci was left in the air.

Fashion Week Daily With wavy feather tendrils floating from the clothes and hair down on alien ducklings, what might have registered as sterile futurism in that stark, otherworldly sea of grey and white instead came off as divine newness.

WWD Olivier Theyskens made a gentle return to the runway, one that was as breathtakingly beautiful as it was serene.

Chloe

Sarah Mower, Style.com The show had energy, but it's too early to judge how any newcomer will make his mark based on one collection (it took quite a few seasons for Philo to climb to the ranks of cult leader, after all). For now, the pertinent question is whether Melim Andersson gets the fact that Chloé has to be an easily broken down assemblage of fab pieces that fly out of shops. Reactions were split over that.

Fashion Week Daily Chloe's runway show played out as something of a hardcore curiosity shop. The new girl, under the helm of Paulo Melim Andersson, displayed a taste for the punky alongside the pretty, piling on zippers with equal fervor as mirrored embellishments, enjoying her lollipop-like abstract flower prints as well as her cherry-red platform combat boots.

Godfrey Deeny, Fashion Wire Daily The collection opened slowly - a navy blue open backed dress worn with improbable bright red Doc Martens-style platforms that did not exactly wow. Like the overly bombastic soundtrack – its mood swung from industrial to piano doodling – the footwear was hit and miss, but one third way through, Paulo suddenly found his groove.

Scoop, as you know, just opened their Mega Scoop store on Broadway a few weeks ago. Already bursting at the seams with great fashion designers and brands like Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg and 7 For All Mankind, Scoop has added yet another fashion iconic label to their list of brands: Helmut Lang.

Here in the states, Helmut Lang has been sold mostly in Barney’s stores and specific high-end retail boutiques. While Lang is no longer involved with his brand (it is owned by Link Theory), the designs overseen by creative directors Michael and Nicole Colovos (who previously owned Habitual, which is also sold at Scoop) have been receiving favorable reviews despite their slight dissention from the brand’s identity.

Scoop NYC will be carrying Lang’s sportswear collection for Spring and Summer 07. Make sure to also check out their fabulous Look Book when on their website.

Today was the big day in Australia for Target to launch Stella McCartney’s limited edition collection of clothing. Australian fashionista’s camped outside of Target like Americans on Black Friday eagerly awaiting the doors to open so they could snatch every piece of clothing possible. Many duked it out grabbing clothing from one another while others stripped the mannequins bare. Some kept the clothing for themselves and others quickly posted them to ebay since the collection is not available in any other country.

Stella McCartney’s Target line includes 42 pieces with none going over the $200 mark. This makes for those who love McCartney’s designs, but have to keep budget-minded, the ability to “dress for less.” McCartney’s idea to create this affordable line is to bring her brand to fashion lovers throughout Australia without discriminating monetarily. Once introduced to the brand and the limited edition collection has run its course, McCartney most likely hopes that these fashion enthusiasts will continue to remain loyal to her brand.

Spend a "seamless" saturday with the spring collection of fashion savvy graphic designers and graphically sophisticated fashion designers. Examine the pages of the fashion story from the creator's vision to the public eye, from the swatch to sketch, seam to sale, the fifties to the future. Register Here. See the schedule.

SATURDAY 24 MARCH 2007 Florence Gould Auditorium French Institute 55 East 59th Street

In the increasingly commercial world of fashion, few designers are able to remain true to their art while keeping an eye on the bottom line.  Thierry Mugler is a rare exception to this strict fashion rule.  The French designer rocked the runway during the 80's and 90's in Paris.   His unique vision of the world and his Women demanded the attention of editors, buyers, and celebrities everywhere!

Everything he did pushed buttons.  The proportions of his infamous silhouette gave women an hour glass figure regardless if they had one or not!  To be snapped into one of his suit jackets was the modern equivilence of wearing a corset.  The look was so extreme, he was labeled a misogynist by some!

His color palettes were also as strong as the shapes themselves.  Deep purples, firecracker reds, striking yellows - they were all there.  Through it all there was always this underlying sensuality or in actuality - an overt sexuality.   Thierry was not shy about his personal interest in leather, bondage, and the fetish lifestyle.  It was this sense of sexuality pulsing beneath the surface that fueled his image.  His love of the nightlife was also as famous as his collections.   Mugler was one of the trend setters who put South Beach on the map! 

This sensual appeal of Thierry Mugler was also the key to his hugely successful fragrance - Angel.  It quickly became known as the cotton candy - sexy scent.   The only one of its kind to use patchouli and chocolate together.  Over 15 years later, the scent is still a best seller worldwide.   In fact, there are now about a dozen variations bearing the name Angel for men and women.   While many French designers rely on the U.S. market for the bulk of their business, Mugler had already tapped into the middle eastern market years ago.   In countries like Dubai where money flowith over... they love the pungent, intense scent that is unmistakably Angel.  The bottle itself set it apart from any other scent.  The out of this world stellar appearance of a purple comet perfectly matches this mystical scent.

 I was lucky enough to have participated in many of Mugler's projects in the mid - 90's.   I had just graduated from F.I.T. and through some good fortune  -NYC coincidences I landed a job in the New York Showroom.   I'll never forget the first time I went to the space ship in the sky that would become a second home to me.   From the time the elevator opened on the 9th floor above the Paris movie theater, I was out of this world!  You had the sensation you entered into an outer space mother ship.  One that came from a place where women wore black vinyl leggings under short mini skirts and huge guitar pick shaped hats! Many of which were hand made by milliner Philip Tracy. 

The space was a huge open showroom that had one central hallway down the back with offices in a row.  The walls were off white venetian plaster and the carpeting throughout was sky blue - what many refer to as "Mugler" blue.   Six huge white leather sofas flanked the the perimeter of the room.  Small oval Herman Miller tables accompanied each.  I instantly knew I was home!

My experience was magical from that very first day.  With a very small U.S. office I worked on things that I would have never been given a chance at home base in Paris.   We wardrobed a Lenny Kravitz video from start to finish.  We produced the opening segment of the very first Vogue-VH-1 Fashion Music Awards. Live TV no less!! This entailed 20 models all in six inch stilettos winding down spiral stairs like ants.   That night I was introduced to Madonna by Jean Paul Gaultier.  Yes, Gaultier.  It seems that Thierry and Jean Paul shared the same housekeeper and many times I would be giving messages from one to the other.   Needless to say - my head never stopped spinning.

We dressed Jerry Hall, Iman, and Diana Ross to name a few Diva's.  Although to be fair, Diana was always very polite and well mannered.   I became phone buddies with Patty Hearst!  She called almost daily to chat about everything from her fathers lawyers to her little girl Lydia who has grown into quite the little party hound!   Women never said no to Thierry.   He even convinced camera shy Hearst to not only walk the runway in Paris but to do a mock strip tease!

Then there was the fashion show that featured four go-go boys in studded g-strings.  I was in charge of organizing the "talent" to get from L.A., N.Y. and parts unknown (or avoided) to Paris on time!!! Believe me this was no easy feat as many of these talented Hustlers, I mean dancers weren't exactly used to being on time - before 10pm that is!

The cast of characters reached beyond the grave! Sort of...there was infamous New York chanteuse - Joey Arias calling all the time and announcing himself as "Billie Holiday".  This was his alter ego when performing his cabaret act.   It was lost on me as I was 24 and fresh from a sleepy suburb.   That was just a typical phone call at the house of Mugler.  You never knew who would call or stop by or ring us up screaming!  Joey Arias is now headlining the  Cirque du Soleil show in Vegas aptly title Zoomanity.  It's known as the "adult" Cirque show and the entire look of the show was designed by Mugler himself.

It was a wild time those 90's.   I think about it now that the Fall collections saw all this homage to Thierry's unmistakable look.  Balenciaga and Dolce & Gabbana were just two that had strong Mugler influences for Fall.  To say he was ahead of his time is redundant.  His core creative inspiration was always a mix between Barbarella and Star Trek.   Although I can see the references on the runway for Fall,  I have to say that no one did or does it like Thierry.  

The fact that Mugler never changed his look to fuel retail sales is why I respect him so much.  That was the look - take it or leave it!   There was no back and forth and whipping up commercial looks for department stores so they would have a version to sell in Podunk!   This was high Fashion.  You trusted the designers vision and became part of the fantasy.   His sense of integrity would not waiver, even in choosing to let the house close, rather than be a commercial sell-out.  The best part is that in the end, Thierry has had the last laugh.   When skincare giant Clarins bought controlling interest in Angel, he was set for life.   The millions the house never made (or actually lost) on RTW- were more than made up for by the cosmetic monster Angel has become!   I hope rumors are true and Thierry Mugler collection will find its way back on the runway again soon!

So you think that eco fashion means hemp clothing and designs that are something less than chic? Do you think haute couture is even possible with eco fashion? Linda Loudermilk and her eco fashion line are nothing short of luxurious with polished put-together designs that will have you wondering why you stereotyped eco fashion in the first place.

I came across Loudermilk, an LA-based fashion designer, in an article regarding sustainable chic maternity in Plum Magazine. While the article and photos were a combination of Loudermilk’s clothing (which is non-maternity) and other fashion brands that are non-eco that were maternity (Chaiken, Cynthia Rowley, etc), I was simply amazed by Loudermilk’s designs and moreover, what they were made of.

Loudermilk uses fabrics that are made of sasawashi, bamboo, sea cell, soya and other exotic self-sustaining plants. Presently the only fabric she uses that is not in line with eco fashion is silk. This is simply due to the sheer cost of organic silk, however, there are currently farmers out there developing more humane ways to harvest silk without killing the silkworm, yet still being affordable and considered Vegan-friendly.

Loudermilk’s Couture line proves that eco fashion can be edgy, glamorous and sophisticated. This Spring she has added denim to her collection that is made from Ingeo (a corn-based fiber), sasawashi, bamboo, organic cotton and 1% spandex. For those who wear the new denim collection, you can feel confident wearing sustainable clothing, yet appear that you are wearing denim that could easily be mistaken as any other premium denim line.

Loudermilk’s clothing can be found in boutiques across the country and globally, as well. In New York City you can swing by Kaight and in Malibu be sure to stop by Crush to see her collections in person.

How many of you change up a handbag simply because the one you are currently using only looks appropriate for the season we are currently in? Then of course there are the trends, and I know that for most people like myself, trendy bags only have so much life to them and then they put off to the side when the next big trend arrives. If you are going to invest in a quality handbag, why not chose one that looks good no matter the season, or trend for that matter?

There is this new handbag designer, Bryna Nicole, who designs some fantastic looking handbags that really are timeless designs. We all use a clutch at one time or another, or a tote or even a satchel. It’s all based on our own need to be expressive with our fashion accessories to make a statement about our own individuality. Each one of Bryna Nicole’s handbags does just that, not just through design but through color as well.

For example, the Rossi Wristlet is a handbag that can take you from day to night, and its luxurious too with its Italian leather body and suede interior. The Minna Slouch is one of those “comfortable” handbags that hugs the body of its owner with its calfskin material. It has a few color choices, but my favorite is bronze as it gives it that ultra chic type look to it.

The best part is knowing that Bryna’s collections are based on what women are looking for in a handbag: style, taste, design and color that transcends season after season and trend after trend. Her handbags fit into the gap created by many designers that look to have their handbag simply be the next “it” bag and not one that will have any long lasting style quality to it. Her handbags are one of those unique finds where you don’t mind investing the money to purchase one because you know that you will have it for the long haul.

What qualities do you look for when purchasing your next handbag? An expression of yourself, design, material or something completely different?

Jockey’s latest collection called 3D-Innovations has a new “body” to show off the line. One of the biggest heartthrob’s in New Zealand is Rugby player, Dan Carter. In New Zealand he is basically the equivalent of David Beckham, certainly not just due to his Rugby skills and ability to capitalize on his fame through endorsements, but he has those stunning good looks to match.

While Carter has been promoting Jockey since 2003, it is with the launch of 3D-Innovations that he is becoming their international spokesmodel, and well, you won’t hear me complaining. However, his international campaign seems to be falling short of the US and will only be promoted in Europe and the UK.

The new Jockey 3D line offers cotton spandex underwear that incorporates technology, so as to enable them to mold and reflect the movements of human body. It is said to offer an excellent comfort fit and hugs the body like second skin. While the line was launched in New Zealand today, it is also offered in the US and can be seen on their website, just without the fabulous imagery of Dan Carter wearing them.

If accessories make the outfit, then a handbag should be a priority to make your fashion statement complete. No one understands this better than up and coming handbag designer, Amanda Che. Che, whose collection of handbags makes its official debut on May 17th, has a style to complete every outfit leaving your friends wondering how you became so fashion forward.

Each handbag in the A.Che handbag collection is made of luxurious deerskin leather with a logo plate decorated with genuine Swarovski crystals. A constant among each handbag in the line are A. Che’s signature diamond knots.

Not only did Marilyn Monroe inspire Anna Nicole, but she was the inspiration behind Amanda Che’s Marilyn Collection, as well. The Marilyn Collection comes in three colors, white, black and nude, and represents Marilyn’s timeless presence in Hollywood. The Audrey Collection and Sophia Collection also symbolize the significance of two classic Hollywood beauties. My favorites among her collections are the Sophia Clutch and Marilyn Satchel, although I also think the Marilyn Basket is also very unique.

If you are in Los Angeles, the A.Che handbag collection can be found at Le Trend in the California Market Center. Soon the bags will be available for sale on the A.Che website for the Fall 2007 season. You can get a sneak peak of all of the handbags in each collection by going to www.a-che.com, clicking on “collection” and using the username: signature and the password: collection.

For more information about Amanda Che and the A.Che line please contact:

Fashion PR Division: Maryam at piercemattie dot com

Fashion is beginning to merge itself with social media. Fashion communities are popping up where you can mix and match pieces of clothing with shoes and various accessories and publish your fashion match for others in the network to see. Of course, no fashion site would be complete without telling you who sells the items and enabling you to purchase what you’ve styled (or the styles of others).

In a previous post I mentioned MyShape.com, a place where you can shop for put-together outfits based on your shape; sites like Polyvore and FashMatch have taken the idea of a clothing match site one step further by creating a community of members who are the driving force behind the mix and match ensembles allowing them to create outfits from pre-existing brands in their database and upload fashion items of their own for every fashion members mix and matching pleasure. Each site tells you the brand and store where the items are available, not only making the whole process fun (and addictive), but allowing you the ability to purchase some pretty terrific looking outfits.

Both sites offer top designer names and brands in fashion like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, Baby Phat, Betsey Johnson and Marc Jacobs (among many others), as well as brands that may be more for the budget oriented like Old Navy, Abercrombie & Fitch, Forever21 and Target. Both sites are also free to join, which is always a bonus if you are inclined to purchase clothes you fall in love with.

Honing your styling skills can be fun, especially with an audience filled with like-minded fashion addicts, but I can also see how it can be bad for your wallet when you find wardrobe after wardrobe that can’t seem to live without.

For Boaz David, music and fashion are not two separate entities. Having grown up in Israel with exposure to the British punk rock era, he was inspired by the fashion and imagery of many of his favorite punk groups. He attended the Shenkar School of Fashion in Tel-Aviv and designed wardrobes for both television and theater before moving to New York City in 1996. It was then that Boaz decided to take his love for music and fashion and merge the two together to create his own style of clothing.

The result is a women’s clothing line with a rocker-chic look that has an edgy, yet fashion forward sense of style. The line’s trademark pocket in the shape of a shield, detailed with distressed leather and accents of metal zippers and rivets was inspired by the simple geometric shapes placed on the shields of medieval armor and used to identify individuals and represent their place in society. One could hardly feel ordinary dawning a Boaz blazer or pair of trousers.

Today I had the chance to ask Boaz more about his line and see what he is working on for the future:

Who are some of the fashion designers you have worked for before making the decision to start your own line?

For 10 years I worked in the contemporary market for lines such as Yigal Azrouel when he just started, Nili Lotan when she started and Alice & Trixie (among others).

I love the writing on the trouser legs and the back of the blazers, is this Hebrew and what does it say?

The writings on the pants are indeed in Hebrew. The circle print just says my name in Hebrew, but all the other prints (the one along the right leg, on the back yoke of some of the pants and the jackets) is a sentence from a Jewish morning prayer and it means, "Bless you (God) who dresses the naked." In Hebrew it sounds like, "Baruch Malbish Aroomim."

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