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

Ladies, what makes a brand a must-have for you? Is it the style? Versatility? Fresh take on fashion? Unique pieces? A designer that understands what you want? One that knows the lines of a woman’s shape? When I came upon Hale Bob, I felt like I had found my perfect fashion match.

Hale Bob, a collection of fabulous pieces of fashion, is the brainchild of Daniel Bohbot. If that last name doesn’t sound familiar, it should. Daniel’s brother, and co-founder of Hale Bob, is Marc Bohbot. Marc is also co-owner of Bisou Bisou, which he and his wife Michele run together. It appears that knowing and understanding what makes great fashion runs in the family.

Hale Bob fashion is one that is stylish and versatile; with many pieces being able to be dressed up or dressed down depending on the occasion. When I look at how well put together the designs are, I feel like I am looking at art. My favorite has to be the Silk and Velvet Burnout Baby Doll dress. Gorgeous design with a flair of elegance. Hale Bob sells mainly tops, jackets, dresses, cami’s and tracksuits. I love how they shout comfort and their shape can spice up different body types.

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.

It seems that each Country (except our own) seems to be trying to outdo each other in how they can energize the fashion world into promoting beauty as a form of being healthy. Spain was the first to mandate that fashion models have at least a BMI of 18.5, then followed Milan and Brazil’s ban on underweight and underage models from walking the runway and required them to present a certificate of good health from a doctor and now Spain is taking the lead once again by standardizing sizes in women’s clothing.

Spain’s government has signed an agreement with top fashion designers to reflect the actual sizes of women in their society. They do this in an effort to promote a healthier image in the hope to reinforce the idea that good health is beautiful. The program also mandates that clothing, no smaller than a size 38 (8 in the US, be shown in fashion store windows. Although a WWD’s article stated store mannequins would be “plumper” due to this regulation, I hardly think of a size 8 as being plump at all.

I have to admit that I love watching each Country basically challenge each other in who can be the most innovative when it comes to promoting good health through the fashion world. Obviously I don’t think this is the only industry that deserves regulation to promote health and educate women about eating disorders, however fashion is a major part of our lives and many times, seems to make the most impact.

What do you think? Will the trend of regulations continue in the fashion industry among each Country?

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.

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

Global warming has been on the minds of all of us for some time, it’s an issue we can’t get away from, although some still continue to debate it. Diesel, the hot Italian fashion brand, has decided to bring the global warming message to the forefront through their new ad campaign, “Global Warming Ready.”

The images are thought provoking, whether it be water half way up the skyscrapers in NYC or the beach vacation on Mount Rushmore, this ad campaign is sure to start a buzz. While Diesel says that the ad campaign is subtle, I think it’s very much in your face…and not in a bad way at all. The Diesel website hosts a global warming video that explains global warming and how it will affect our planet. At the end of the video a slideshow begins to play of the ad campaign, although it is somewhat slow, it is definitely worth it and gives you time to really look at each picture. They also offer you tips on 10 things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint, provide a direct link to StopGlobalWarming.org and encourage Diesel fans to watch Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth.” The ads get you thinking, almost to the point that you forget about the great Diesel fashion in the ads.

This campaign comes at a time when many beauty and fashion companies are either going green or collaborating with green charities and organizations to promote awareness of what we are doing to our planet, such as Lancome collaborating with Carbonfund.org.

What do you think of Diesel’s ad campaign? Is it exploitive or do you think it will get more people talking (and doing something) about global warming?

Runway Fashion Videos: By Coutorture

Diane Von Furstenberg Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Runway Video Montage


Matthew Williamson Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Fashion Week Video Montage


Naeem Khan Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Runway Video Montage

Tuleh Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Fashion Runway Montage Video

Erin Featherston Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Runway Montage Video


Alexander Wang Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Runway Video and Designer Interview


James Coviello Fall/Winter 2007/2008 Runway and Designer Interview


Backstage and Makeup at James Coviello Fall 2007

Lacoste Fall/Winter 2007/ 2008 Runway Video

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!

Kevin Aviance, known for his talents as an entertainer, is also a shoe designer. He currently has a Winter Collection that includes stiletto boots, glamorous pumps and evening sandals. His Spring Collection is one with that is flirty, fun and not without losing the essence of “Kevin.”

The Kevin Aviance Spring Collection, which debuts next month and is available online and at select stores nationwide, has a sense of female-inspired spirit. "Alive" are bright strappy heels meant for a glamorous night out. Kevin describes the woman who would wear Alive as: A confident woman who is able to act and live as she chooses, without being subject to restrictions. Adj: Not forced to rely on another for support. “Christina” is a wedged heel platform shoe meant to “punish the red carpet” and has the look that says it should be your choice of footwear when heading out to the dance club. Kevin describes this part of the collection as “Artistic, Inc. to the max. Adj: The showing of initiative and a willingness to undertake new, often risky projects.” It’s amazing how you can actually feel these words when looking at the new Spring line.

As if promoting his fabulous shoes were not enough, Kevin is also launching his Anti-Violence Tour that kicks off this month in NYC. The tour is as a result of a hate crime that he suffered last June at the hands of four men when they beat him and broke his jawbone, robbed him and accosted him with anti-gay slurs. Unfortunately, passersby did nothing to help Aviance during the attack. The newest shoe collection, musical sound and tour are Aviance’s way to show that he has come out on top and is a beacon of hope to others.

If his shoes are not an inspiration—he sure is!

Everyone knows who Levi Strauss is and their trademark arches that are patented, no less. We also know that the love of denim has increased and birthed many new denim companies because of it. So would you be surprised to know that Levi’s never really took notice of this denim craze until it hit them in their (back stitched arched) pockets with a 40% decrease in sales since 1996? Once they realized they missed the boat and were no longer the King of denim, they took a long hard look at the competitors passing them by. The common thread of success? Levi’s believes it to be their trademark logo making it onto behinds of non-Levi’s wearing consumers across the globe.

Since 2001 Levi’s has sued more than 100 companies, making their lawsuits over trademark the most of any other clothing company in the United States. Surely trademark has specifications as to how not to replicate their logo, yet even companies who made their own unique design and deliberately placed it on an opposing pocket were sued by Levi’s. So was the case with Rock and Republic, who was sued in 2005 and settled out of court despite Rock and Republic’s chief executive Michael Ball never conceding that their brand did anything wrong. Rock and Republic also happens to be one of the country’s most fastest growing denim companies. Could the frivolous lawsuit be to take a competitor down or did Levi’s truly believe there was basis for their lawsuit?

After looking at some of the “arches” stitched onto competitor’s pockets that Levi Strauss sued, there seems to be a fine line between their trademark logo, as some do look very similar, and that of a denim company being a sore loser.

What do you think?

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

Pinko, the young Italian trend-wear fashion brand for women, has announced Mariah Carey as the spokesmodel for their brand. Pinko was established in the late 80’s as a spin-off from CISCONF and has increased in popularity in the last 4 years. Mariah Carey says to have found the fashion brand while working in Italy and fell in love with their clothing. When she was approached by Pinko to be their spokesmodel, she gladly accepted.

Mariah Carey is almost unrecognizable on their website. I’m so used to seeing her in less than flattering clothing and pastel colored makeup that I was taken aback by how stunning and gorgeous she looks. When on the site descriptive words to illustrate the brand flash before your eyes: Glamour, Lifestyle, Irony, Sensuality and Seduction. All of these words can easily be related to Carey, as well.

Pinko has 410 retail stores in Italy, including 60 single brand shops, 100 corner stores, 250 multi-brand stores and 210 overseas sales points. While you can shop Pinko online, unfortunately the US in not included among the Countries that one can shop from. So for now, we can stand in awe of their very cool, very chic collection.

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 Hot Hotness Of The Magazine Show February

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.

If there is anything that the whole zero model debate has done for the fashion industry, it is to slap them in the face with reality. The majority of the female population, at least in the US, is a size 12-14. So would it hurt anyone to start using models that most of us can relate to? One store in Britain has decided to start listening to its customers…make that size 12 customers.

John Lewis, one of the UK’s leading department stores, has hired a 5’8” size 12 model, Lauren Moller (pictured above), to promote their new 2007 swimwear collection in their advertisements. After an in-store polling of their customers, they found that 80% of women size 12+ purchases their swimwear. Since their customers can’t relate to a waif model, they decided to forgo the norm and use a model that was representative of their customer base. Quite honestly, I think this move alone may help them sell more swimwear. Their customers will begin to feel a connectedness with the store once they can relate to the woman wearing the swimwear they came to buy. If it is representative of them, they will be more likely to make a purchase versus a model several sizes smaller wearing a swimsuit that the customer may feel is an unattainable fit for themself.

With yet another model dying from “complications of malnutrition,” which is just a fancy way of beating around the bush to avoid saying she was anorexic, I can’t see how we can continue to ignore the fact that the majority of women are not size zero, yet models in the fashion industry starve themselves to keep up an image that is not at all representative of most of us. Certainly I am not promoting representing an unhealthy lifestyle, but since size and weight are subjective in a sense without knowing a person’s height and bone structure, I guess I am just baffled why size (larger than zero) is made into such an issue in fashion. I hope many retailers follow John Lewis’s lead and I bet they will be laughing all the way to the bank.

The Academy Awards is sometimes considered one of the biggest nights of fashion for the year. It’s a time when a dress can make or break a star’s image and when a sometimes virtually unheard of designer can be launched into the stratosphere. There are Oscar nominees that we know will wow us with their sense of style and who we wait with baited breath to see walk down the Red Carpet, and then there are the ones we know will just crash and burn. Occasionally, there is the celebrity whose notorious history of poor fashion sense surprises us with a winner and then there is that one dress that, guaranteed, will have us talking for years to come.

One such dress that seems to pop up every time you mention the Oscar’s is the black-and-white vintage Valentino dress that Julia Robert’s wore in 2001. When I think of the Academy Awards, this dress always comes to mind. Back in the late 80’s, Cher’s sheer Bob Mackie dress was hailed as gaudy and outrageous, but now it’s being looked upon as fashion forward. Celebrity news shows and websites have already begun to buzz, pondering which designer will get the most mentions on the Red Carpet and who they feel will be the best dressed celebrity.

As we are heading into the warmer months, the biggest complaint about wearing shoes is how uncomfortable they can be to wear when the temperature rises. Now a Chinese company called Guangzhou Tianfu Electronic Company has created several fashionable men's shoes that are meant to look great and feel great at the same time through temperature regulation.

Guangzhou Tianfu Electronic Co. is a professional high-tech enterprise, specializing in developing, manufacturing and marketing electrothermal series products. Their electronic shoe line known as CEO shoes has complementary-symmetry metal-oxide-semiconductor or CMOS chips, which controls temperature at a comfortable level. According to an article on Fibre2Fashion it, "Emits biological energy according to body temperature that helps in normal biological functions, improves endocrine balance, increases metabolism, stimulates cell activity."

While celebrities are honoring their own at the Academy Awards on Sunday, there seems to be a controversial issue brewing and one that appears to be a contradiction when they honor Blood Diamond. As with at the Golden Globes, A-list celebrities walking the red carpet are given gorgeous diamonds to flaunt through the Raise Your Right Hand campaign. Raise Your Right Hand began when the diamond miners in southern Africa felt the pressure from the issues Blood Diamond brought to light. Fearing that the movie will jeopardize their industry, they decided to use some star power to promote their trade. We all know that diamonds play a major role in the fashion of the Oscar’s, but during a time when a movie such as Blood Diamond is the talk of the movie industry, I would think diamonds would be played down being substituted by other gems or even smaller sized diamonds that won’t steal the show, but simply compliment the dress.

Sometimes it does take a rocket scientist…at least it did in the invention of Insolia, shoe inserts that were invented to distribute weight evenly when wearing high heels. With the help of a MIT-trained Rocket Scientist, Dr. Howard Dananberg a podiatrist, invented Insolia to help those of us who love our heels but hate the pain.

Insolia insoles are plastic inserts that are barely noticeable to your feet, until you realize that you are no longer wincing in pain while running around the city in your 3-inch heels. They work by preventing your foot from sliding down to the front of your shoe, which puts all of your weight on the balls of your feet. Insolia’s inserts create a 50/50 weight distribution between the balls of your feet and your heel. The result enables better ankle stability and gives you the feeling of wearing flats. Even DKNY and Ipanema are in love with the idea and have begun creating their shoes with Insolia built into their design.

This is definitely a product I could’ve used while in the city last July wearing my 3-inch espadrilles walking through Manhattan and up and down those subway stairs. By the end of the day I was in so much pain that I was ready to walk barefoot through the city. As I am only days away from being back in Manhattan again, I purchased 1-inch heels as to not make the same mistake of unbelievable pain to my feet. Certainly a product such as Insolia is one that sounds perfect no matter where you live and can open the doors to many who so desperately want to wear those fabulous heels in style and not in pain.

As always there is a best and worst dressed when it comes to the red carpet. Some gowns amazed me, while others I was amazed even came off the hanger in the closet. These are my picks for best and worst dressed with a few undecided’s thrown in for good measure.

Best:

Helen Mirren: Wow, she took my breath away. If she is not the signature for aging gracefully, I’m not sure who is. I absolutely adored her beaded gown by Christian Lacroix. It was elegant and tasteful and just made her look amazing.

Beyonce: Her Armani Prive' gown was exquisite. She certainly didn’t need to wear jewelry around her neck with her jeweled strap. The mint green color was amazing, as well.

Reese Witherspoon: Her Nina Ricci gown made her figure look amazing. It was the right fit, the perfect color and I loved the layering.

Worst:

Nicole Kidman: Nicole always looks gorgeous and while I thought her red gown by Balenciaga did look beautiful, I couldn’t help thinking the big red bow with long sash made her look like a present, like she was on a leash or even the back to one of those wind up dolls.

Cameron Diaz: It may not be the gown itself by Valentino, but the color. I just don’t think white is a color that brings out Diaz’s beauty. It also definitely did not highlight her figure. Also, the fact that she kept standing pigeon-toed on stage and on the Red Carpet took away from the look as well.

Sally Kirkland: Oh my. I was cringing and hoping she wouldn’t make a false move revealing what was underneath her sheer dress. Maybe she could’ve used her parachute to cover herself up better.

Undecided:

Jennifer Hudson: While her Oscar de la Renta gown was gorgeous, the silver bolero jacket should’ve been left on the hanger. I think the jacket completely takes away from the richness of the gown.

Penelope Cruz: The strapless Versace was gorgeous on top and was such a lovely color, although the bottom of her dress makes me think of Goose Down.

Other Reviews Found Here

Remember when I said I was predicting a strong come back for Gap? It definitely appears that a lot is going on company-wide to make this prediction true. Gap Inc. announced today that they were closing their Forth & Towne brand, meanwhile last Friday they hired Michael Cape as head of Old Navy marketing. Gap Inc. has stated that from here on out, their focus is bringing back to life their Gap and Old Navy brands.

Forth & Towne, Gap Inc.’s 18-month old brand is one I had never heard of until today. They have only 19 stores in 10 US cities spread among 6 states and I have never seen any print or commercial advertisements for the brand. Looking through the site today, I am surprised that this line of chic clothing hasn’t taken off in terms of fashion. It is definitely in the ranks of Banana Republic high-end style. However, you can’t make a brand succeed with a good marketing plan in place. Gap Inc. has decided to lose the brand stating that it had no “long term potential.” Without the ability to purchase online and that the brand was a relative unknown in the other 44 states would definitely give any brand an uphill challenge, especially at a time when Gap Inc. was failing in every corner of their business.

We all noticed Leonardo DiCaprio with his mother on his arm at the Oscar’s while many of us miss Gisele by his side (although Tom Brady is not complaining). How much do you know about this gorgeous supermodel that is in the Guinness World Book of Records for being the richest supermodel to date with an estimated value of $150 million? She may be stunning, but there is a lot more to this model than meets the eye.

Gisele began as a model with Elite Model Management, but like Naomi Campbell did recently, she jumped ship and joined the ranks of IMG. Modeling has been good to her bringing her a reported $7000 an hour and covering campaigns such as Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Chloe, Louis Vuitton and obviously the one we all know her best for: Victoria’s Secret. Combined, she has literally hundreds of campaigns, magazine covers, fashion shows and editorials to her resume.

Dipping her toes into acting, just this past year we saw her in Apple’s Mac advertisement, on The O.C. and in The Devil Wears Prada. Prior to The Devil Wears Prada, she was also in the movie Taxi in 2004. Gisele also has a shoe line with Grendene through the Ipanema brand called Ipanema Gisele Bundchen. She also owns a hotel in Brazil called Palladium Executive.

Can this fabulous model do anything more? She is impressive with what she has been able to accomplish (over 400 magazine covers) since she was discovered approximately 13 years ago…in a McDonald’s no less.

Diane von Furstenberg is a multi-talented woman whose career has spanned three decades. Most people know that she is a fashion designer, but she has many other gifts that have kept her well rounded and brought her the name recognition she so rightly deserves.

Ms. von Furstenberg began her career selling knit dresses and soon enough designed the wrap dress, which is on display at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. She has always been about being feminine and feeling like a woman and this theme is reflective in all of her collections, beauty and fragrance line and accessories. Ms. Von Furstenberg has authored several books a few that are coffee table books and one memoir and also established a French-language publishing house. She designed Venus William’s Wimbledon dress with Reebok and it is now featured in the Wimbledon Hall of Fame. She has created her own cosmetic line and a fragrance she calls “D.” She has also designed an exclusive fine jewelry line with H. Stern and even has a Barbie Doll in her likeness.

In 2005 she was awarded the CFDA’s Lifetime Achievement Award and a year later was welcomed as CFDA’s President. She entered this role amidst the model weight controversy and I have mentioned in a previous post my disappointment over how she has handled the issue thus far. However, for all that she has accomplished this far, I have no doubt that she will press forward teaching us all a thing or two about the fashion industry, she is after all, an Icon.

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.

Ever since I can remember, I have had an obsession with shoes. It is the one fashion accessory that I am extremely picky about. I’ll never forget the day that I had saved enough babysitting money as a teenager, to purchase a pair of Kenneth Cole sandals. I wore them every day, but unfortunately they met their demise a year later when I got a puppy that decided my beloved sandals would make for a good chew toy.

To me, my shoes are a way of self-expression. I wear a particular style dependent upon my mood and how I want to express myself each day. Something about shoes makes me feel a certain way. If my shoes look good, it instills a certain amount of confidence in the way I walk. When I am out and about, I always want people to notice my shoes. For me, my shoes are an art form.

Prior to having children, my closet has been known to hold up to 25 (or maybe more) pairs of shoes. My husband has never understood my obsession and many times laughs at my preference of style over functionality. He often says that I do not wear “sensible shoes,” which he realized on our honeymoon as I climbed a snowy hill to go tubing in 3-inch heeled boots (and yes I probably fell about a dozen times wearing them).

Fashionista’s everywhere pay attention to the runway for the upcoming trends each season. Imagine my surprise when those trends are now showing up in Old Navy stores everywhere. It’s no secret to anyone who reads this blog and our main blog; I adore Old Navy and have for a long while. I’m definitely their cheerleader when it comes to reviving their brand (and Gap Inc. overall). From the looks of their latest commercial for their Spring dresses, it looks like that revival is here much sooner than we expected.

A few weeks ago I posted the top ten trends for Spring. The biggest trend obviously being dresses, but also the eyelet and above the knee hemlines, and while not on their list, baby dolls are popping up everywhere. I was sitting in my living room when the newest Old Navy commercial played and I couldn’t contain my excitement over their newest line of dresses. I’m not alone; Carleen Pruess from Beauty and Fashion Tech felt the same way:

“The other night the commercial came on and my boyfriend asked what it was for (he missed the intro), he was surprised when I immediately said 'Old Navy.' I hadn't really thought of Old Navy as a source for dresses in the past, but the ones in the commercial are cute and just the type of summer dress I like. I'm a sucker for sundresses and Old Navy prices sure can't be beat! I particularly like the halter dress in the commercial. It looks like I will be going shopping there soon.”

Other fashion Bloggers feel similar...

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.

Carolina Herrera was born with couture in her blood. While some women have it all, some women have all the talent. Ms. Herrera possesses an elegance that is undefined and that sophistication is streamlined throughout every piece of clothing and product that encompasses her brand.

Ms. Herrera began her fashion business in 1980 with a collection she designed to rave reviews among industry professionals. With the encouragement and support of her family, she moved from Venezuela to New York and formed Carolina Herrera Ltd. at the age of 40; an age that most people would consider too old for beginning a fashion label, but Ms. Herrera has proved them wrong. Her collections projected an elegant simplicity and love for detail. Boutiques and specialty stores began selling her line and it wasn’t too long before Carolina Herrera clothing became in demand by chic fashion enthusiasts who admired her craftsmanship.

In 1988, Ms. Herrera began to expand her brand into beauty when she launched her namesake fragrance. Then in subsequent years she launched Carolina Herrera for Men, Flore, Aqua Flore, 212 Carolina Herrera for Women and 212 for Men. Ms. Herrera also has a bridal line, cosmetics line and accessories line, all of which remain equally as popular as her signature fashion designs.

In 2004 Ms. Herrera received the CFDA’s Women’s Wear Designer of the Year award. One of her 4 daughters, also named Carolina, is also very much involved in the brand and is said to be the inspiration to many of its products. Year after year Ms. Herrera continues to impress us with her glamorous designs and I’m pretty confident that she will take our breath away for years to come.

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.

Heidi Klum’s modeling career began when her friend persuaded her in 1991, then only 18, to enter into a national modeling contest called “Model 92.” A year later she wins the contest, only to pass it up for finishing school. A month later school is finished and she begins studying to be a Fashion Designer. In the summer of that year she decides to give up Fashion Design to pursue her modeling career and lands her first real job. In 1993 she comes to the US for a modeling job and decides to take up residence in Manhattan, she has resided there ever since.

In 1997 she began her career with Victoria’s Secret and makes her first runway appearance. In that same year, she becomes engaged and remains married until 2003. By 1998 she becomes the first German model to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and soon recognized as an international top model. In the next few years that followed she made her acting debut on Spin City as Michael J. Fox’s love interest, her first calendar is published, she makes her movie debut in Blow Dry, sings a tune at MTV’s Fashionably Loud and continues to rock the world with her images splashed on the covers of Vogue, ELLE, Marie Claire among many others.

In 2004 she became the host of the successful Bravo reality show Project Runway and soon after became the host for Germany’s Next Top Model which is co-produced by Tyra Banks. Klum has designed shoes for Birkenstock, produced two fragrances and designed jewelry for Mouawad. She is an accomplished painter and has had some of her work debut in art magazines here within the United States. Within the last few years she has put out a single called “Wonderland” which was intended for a series of commercials for the German retailer, “Douglas.” She has had a stamp in Germany in her honor and a rose named after her.

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!

Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani is often the name you hear whispered across the red carpet at many Hollywood events. Armani’s designs and accessories are always in demand as they represent understated elegance with a distinct luxurious quality. What began as humble beginnings as a window dresser at La Rinascente, has become a fashion empire that few can rival.

From 1961-1970 he joined Nino Cerruti as a designer and then with the encouragement of his close friend Sergio Galeotti, he left Cerruti to venture out on his own into freelance design work. Within four years he established his own men’s wear label and a year later had one for women as well. Now Armani has established nine labels dabbling into more than just fashion, but cosmetics, accessories, home decor, jewelry, eyewear and watches.

While Armani is best known for his men’s line, it is his adaptation of the same lines and cuts that makes his women’s line increasingly sought after. Armani clothing is known for its precision and easy fit comfortable style.

Fashion PR is a curious thing. There are many fashion blogs out there, most from those who adore fashion, but a select few from those who are actually in fashion public relations. Many times Bloggers are tapped by public relations firms and are sent information regarding new products out on the market or about to hit the market. Occasionally this also means being sent a fashion product to review on our blogs. In a sense, this then puts the average fashion blogger into the realm of Fashion PR.

For my personal beauty and fashion blog I am often contacted by various PR firms regarding their client’s fashion brand or accessory. The following PR Firms that have reached out to me that represent fashion brands are:

Pierce Mattie Public Relations
The Winning Pitch
BelleRinger PR
Style House PR
Wilks PR
Rubenstein Communications

The Fashion PR blog that I read the most is PR Couture by Crosby Noricks. She manages her own PR and Creative Consulting Company, Clever Gretel in San Diego, CA, where she specializes in providing clients with expertise in media relations, creative promotions, branding, creative copy, event planning and design. Her interest in Fashion PR stems from undergraduate work in media studies, where she examined the relationship between feminism and fashion, as well as graduate work in mass communication and media studies. Her master’s thesis, “From Style to Strategy: An Exploratory Investigation of Public Relations Practice in the Fashion Industry” took her to Los Angeles and New York City to interview practitioners, and was the first academic study of its kind. Crosby was gracious enough to answer my questions regarding her reason for entering into the Fashion PR world:

Innovative, unique, stylish and bold; all of these characteristics describe the design of a Storm Watch. Their copywritten designs provide its consumer with the assuredness that their watch is unique only to Storm, lending prestige and credibility to the brand. Storm’s quest for individual style is made by challenging consumer expectations with a product that is different than any other watch out there.

While many people wear a watch for their functionality, why not have the best of both worlds? Storm is a statement of who you are while providing precision instrumentation. This isn’t your average timepiece, as each watch is made of stainless steel with scratch resistant mineral glass. Storm Watches aren’t ordinary looking, which is what I think makes them appealing. Their uncommon look is something that will make you stand out in a crowd. Some of the celebrities that stand out for their Storm Watches are David and Victoria Beckham, Nicole from the Pussycat Dolls, Pink, Justin Timberlake, Amerie, Keke Palmer from Akeelah and the Bee, and LeToya Luckett.

The one thing you can count on with a Storm Watch is that its designers are constantly challenging the perception of how a watch should look. Whether it’s the features, gadgets, colors or shapes, the design is ever evolving and always looking to the future of individual taste and style.

It’s amazing to me that a supermodel such as Gemma Ward didn’t willingly enter the modeling industry on her own. Just like Heidi Klum, Gemma was coaxed into entering a modeling contest while still in her early teens. While Gemma didn’t win the competition in 2002, it was then that she was discovered at 14 and signed on as a model at Vivien's Model Management in Australia. Not long after, she was scooped up by IMG in New York, where she currently resides. Gemma is currently listed on Models.com as the number 1 top models to look out for.

While Gemma will be 20 this year, she has already had a few “firsts” in her modeling career and an extensive resume of designer collections, fashion shows and magazines that she has been involved in. At only 16 she was the first teen model to appear on the cover of American Vogue and Teen Vogue. She is also the first model since uber model Kate Moss to be the face of Calvin Klein’s Obsession Night For Men. Gemma’s face can be linked to Louis Vuitton, Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, Prada and Valentino.

Besides modeling, Gemma was also cast in John Mayer’s music video for “Daughters.” Gemma is said to be insanely popular in the fashion and modeling industry due to her angelic features and naivety regarding just how beautiful she is. Two things that are a rarity in the modeling industry.

7 For All Mankind is a must-have brand for the Fashionista and celebrity alike. 7 For All Mankind’s women's premium denim line exploded onto the scene in 2000 with virtually no competition. In the years that followed they developed a men’s denim collection, a children’s line and an outerwear and shirt collection that reached beyond their comfort zone of denim into a variety of other fabrics such as satin, corduroy and twill. This Spring we’ll see a women’s knit collection, as well as, KA7, a collaboration between designer Katayone Adeli and 7 For All Mankind to create a women’s contemporary sportswear collection.

 7 For All Mankind denim is known for it perfect fit and premium denim leaving you feeling luxurious and certainly not ordinary with their couture styling. Even for moms like Jennifer Garner, you certainly don’t have to wear mom jeans anymore when you have 7 For All Mankind’s “A” Pocket design. Other celebrities who love to show off their assets in 7 For All Mankind denim are Scarlett Johannson, Eva Longoria, Cameron Diaz and Rachel Bilson. It is due to their strong celebrity following and product placement that they have been able to bring about brand awareness that has created a frenzy in the denim market.

I took a quick poll from the Pierce Mattie Brand Advocates and found that in addition to 7 For All Mankind, Diesel, True Religion and Levies were the fancy pants of choice in New York and Los Angeles.

To say that Marc Jacobs is a talented fashion designer is a complete understatement. The fact that Marc Jacobs operates more than one fashion brand, a men’s wear and women’s wear collection, as well as, a beauty, footwear, eyewear, fashion accessories and a home collection and does it all equally well only begins to describe the natural talent that is Marc Jacobs.

Marc Jacobs has been on the receiving end of the CFDA’s awards six times. Several times for Women’s Designer of the Year, Men’s Designer of the Year, the Perry Ellis Award for New Fashion Talent and Accessories Designer of the Year. Not only has he received these awards from the CFDA, but he has also received many others while studying at the Parsons School of Design in New York City including the Perry Ellis Gold Thimble Award, the Chester Weinberg Gold Thimble Award and the Design Student of the Year Award.

Mr. Jacobs has had a partnership with Robert Duffy for their company Jacobs Duffy Designs Inc. since 1984 that continues to this day. In the late 80’s Jacobs worked for Perry Ellis as Vice President of Women’s Design and less than 10 years later became artistic director for Louis Vuitton, a position he still holds today. Jacobs also has two successful labels of his own; Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs, he also has a children’s collection called Little Marc. 1995 was the year that Jacobs launched his first Men’s Ready to Wear Collection.

Jacobs has countless stores and boutiques stationed around the world making him a household name. His runway shows are always subject to rave reviews and his designs always leave us breathless. There is not one collection that is better than the other and his talent and commitment to high quality and design shine through in everything he does.

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.

Sometimes I get in this style rut where I start to think the whole fashion thing is pretty lame. When I get this way, nothing in my closet looks good and I start thinking that maybe what would really inspire me would be to live in a beach cave like the chick in Island of the Blue Dolphins, or better yet, Blue Lagoon. These are low points to be sure, but they do happen. Blame it on too much of the So-Cal sun.

Since spear fishing is probably out of the question, it’s supremely lucky for me that there is Nylon Magazine – a rare gift for that rarified, thinking girl fashionista who loves sneaking into the bath with her Lucky magazine stickers, but sometimes needs a bit more substance. Witty, brash, like the cooler hipster girl you wish you were, Nylon comes on strong with art, style, interviews with crush-worthy ladies like Christina Ricci and Maggie Gyllenhaall, and delicious, inspiring fashion editorials that make me weak in the knees, surrounded by the kind of smart writing that truly feeds me.

I’m hoping that Nylon Guys creates the same kind of style-euphoria upon my well-dressed male friends and those complete strangers I see wearing too short suit pants at my local coffee shop. Focusing on sneakers, graffiti, music, with a tad of the sexy lady in her skivvies, Nylon Guys is a stylish pick me up for those XY chromosomes of a slightly more indie persuasion than MR. “I subscribe to GQ and Maxim.” It’s a bit like falling in love with the boyfriend I never had. It’s also free to download.

Tell me what child doesn’t look cute in a pair of overalls? OshKosh B’Gosh is the original creative mind behind the overall obsessed culture for little ones. I openly admit that at one time all three of my boys wore overalls when they were smaller. There is something so cute, yet grown up about them on a child. With only a few weeks to go until baby #4 arrives, I am beginning to stock up on all the adorable baby clothes that I can find that will let my little one offer his own voice of self-expression amidst his three older brothers.

Something I love about OshKosh clothing is its quality and durability. Since I have all boys, hand-me-downs are a way of life. The OshKosh clothes I bought my oldest son as a toddler still look just as good now as they did when he wore them eight years ago despite repeated washings over the years and the wear and tear that three rough and tumble boys can bring on. The new baby will inherit these clothes without anyone suspecting their age or amount of mileage they’ve racked up over the years.

OshKosh clothes are fraught with creativity and imagination and I love their fun and playful designs. My boys always looked like the angelic model baby dressed in their clothing despite the little terror about to toss that chocolate pudding at me erupting underneath. In the next few weeks I am heading down to the OshKosh Outlet at The Crossings and I can’t wait to see their newest arrivals just in time for my newest arrival.

Mathias Lauridsen hails from Denmark and is currently one of the most in demand male models of the moment. This uber gorgeous model with his piercing blue-green eyes has mastered all aspects of modeling in just a short period of time: runway, editorials and campaigns. This makes him the most diverse and most marketable than his male model counterparts.

Lauridsen was discovered in 2003 on the streets of Copenhagen and immediately did some modeling for a few local magazines. It was when he modeled for a Jil Sander campaign that other major brands took notice and within two years his face has been a part of campaigns for Christian Dior, Hermes, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Perry Ellis, DKNY, Lacoste, Kenzo, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, and Gucci.

It’s Lauridsen’s boyish charm and small scar on his cheek that has given him the appearance of rugged naivety. He’s walked the runway for Fashion Week many times and leaves fashion editors swooning in their seats. The rumor that he is shy has created an aura of mysteriousness and intrigue that has commanded the attention of fashion brands and designers across the globe.

David Beckham isn’t just an extremely talented and good looking soccer player. Beckham is a lifestyle brand and with all of that branding comes an extremely well dressed David who is the perfect walking advertisement for his products. In the states, the sports world is in need of a fashion icon and who better than David Beckham to lead the way?

In a time when the sports scene only has a handful of athletes that are exceptionally well dressed, we are desperately in need of someone to infuse good fashion sense back into the sports world. There once was a time when the most endorsement-savvy player, Michael Jordan, dominated with a fashion sense while other athletes attempted to step up their game by dawning designer duds. Over the years this has waned a little with jewelry becoming more of a statement with athletes than clothing; just look at the diamonds Terrell Owens is always showing off in television interviews.

Of course, some athletes have stepped foot into the fashion scene by designing clothing, such as Donovan McNabb’s Super Five apparel under the Reebok brand. However, this is more casual wear than clothing that makes a statement with high end style, so the burden now rests with David Beckham to bring his runway “Dolce & Gabbana look” into the competitive industry of sports here in the US. Athletes are competitive after all and I can’t see our American athletes being up shown by the new kid from across the pond.

My son uses the word “Sports Candy” to describe healthy snacks, with David Beckham’s presence soon to be here, I think I just found a new definition for it.

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?

Everyone’s attention lately has been on trying to fix the fashion industry, which when it comes to the whole modeling/weight/eating disorder issue, is in need of some serious PR. Each country has their take on what should be done, the CFDA doesn’t appear to really want to “weigh in” too much on the issue, but now the very talented Donatella Versace can no longer be apart of the masses that are in denial about the issue, as it has been confirmed that her 20 year old daughter suffers from Anorexia.

Seeing pictures of Allegra Versace with a feeding tube in her nose as she walks down the street is certainly one reason to make you stop and think. I can only imagine the pressure and microscope she lives under being surrounded by the industry and all the good and bad that comes with it. However, the title to this post is two-fold as Anorexia is not only hitting home with the Versace family, but also with mine. Tonight we spoke with family who let us know that my niece is Anorexic.

This gorgeous young girl, only 15 who I have always admired for her height (5’7”) and fabulous figure, was forced out of the closet when her parents found a purse-full of diet pills hidden in the basement this weekend. When they went into her room, they discovered pictures of ultrathin models from the best fashion magazines taped to her walls. This hadn’t previously set off alarms, but it all began to make sense now with the diet pills and also the discovery that she had been visiting “pro-anna” sites on MySpace that were teaching her how to hide her disease from her parents. Her mother had noticed her recent obsession with the model reality shows and how her eating had become substantially less. This week she took my niece to the pediatrician who confirmed her BMI as 17; my niece only weighing in at 110lbs.

We see it every Fall and Spring during Fashion Week, designers dictate what everyone will be wearing the following season by what they display in their runway collections. If they deem a particular trend to be in style, then we are guaranteed to see it in one form or another throughout each collection. While that style trend is prominent, each designer does their own take on it and lends their own spice of creativity to the mix.

While many brands have some designs patented, such as Levi Strauss’s pocket embroidery, which almost serves as a trademark of the brand, the fuel behind Intellectual Property Law is lost on most of the fashion industry as their “creative ideas” are not copyright protected. This is according to an article I read in the International Herald Tribune today which discusses why the fashion industry flourishes on copying each other’s ideas.

According to the article, fashion designers promote the latest trend sending us all running to be the first among our friends to be wearing that trapeze dress or grabbing that silver handbag off the rack. Once we become a sea of silver handbag, wedge shoe wearing, statement ring flashing individuals in baby dolls with leggings, we are immediately bored and begin looking for something new and interesting to wear. Thus begins the cycle of designers churning out the next trend for us to gush over all due to the expansion of creativity that isn’t confined due to copyright of anyone’s design idea.

Put into this perspective it’s almost amusing to look back on my fashion behavior, yet something I would absolutely not want to be without. Season after season I love watching the shows during Fashion Week and watching each trend emerge and how wonderfully creative each designer is with it. I openly admit to being one of “those people” who run to the store to pick up the latest trend-wear of the season. Isn’t that what makes fashion fun after all?

Who knew that being a manager at The Gap, having some fashion savvy and owning an iMac with a built in video camera to shoot a few video blogs on, would one day land William Sledd You Tube celebrity status, as well as possible offers from NBC and Bravo.

William Sledd is the 23 year old vlogger behind the now hugely popular video clips on You Tube, “Ask a Gay Man: Fashion Edition.” With over 45,000 subscribers and millions of viewers, big media is starting to take notice. He has signed a deal with NBC and Bravo (owned by NBC) has discussed with him their ideas on some possible scenarios that he could fit into on their network.

Sledd has a good sense of humor and answers subscriber emails in his video series. He has no fashion background beyond managing The Gap, but its his interest in dressing everyone better and his unique standing as the average gay guy dishing out fashion advice that has captured everyone’s attention and lead him onto celebrity status with the jump from ordinary blogger to someone who may be gracing your television screen sometime soon.

Be sure to check out his fashion video series on You Tube. I’ve posted my favorite above, Ask a Gay Man: Fashion Victim Edition, it is very funny and I laughed out loud during the woman and the salt and pepper shaker scene. William Sledd is definitely one to watch!

This blonde haired blue eyed soon to be 21-year-old Canadian model was discovered at age 16 at a restaurant in Ontario by an agent for International Model Management and later went on to win the Los Angeles Model Look Search. She has quickly become a name you will often hear mentioned by anyone discussing a top ten list of models, which is no surprise when she has had a spectacular start to her modeling career.

Stam, which is also the nickname she is known by, lit up her career when she was placed on the cover of German Vogue. Since then she has appeared in ad campaigns for Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui, Vera Wang, Atsuro Tayama, Cerruti Jeans, Valentino, Miu Miu, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Holt Renfrew, BCBG, and Banila B. Marc Jacobs has even created a handbag and named it the Stam Bag in her honor.

Stam is a beauty whose face and body can convert to any fashion vice without looking out of place. Despite participation in such high profile ad campaigns, she remains well grounded and certainly not full of herself. This down to earth quality makes her all the more attractive considering that most supermodels attain a diva attitude when they are in such demand.

Stam will continue to strut the runway until her gorgeous piercing blue eyes go out of style. The fact that she lives in New York City (one of the Mecca’s of modeling) and is represented by IMG (who represents a majority of the women and men we call supermodels), I have a feeling she has a long modeling career ahead of her.

Rainy days need not be the only day you dawn a trench coat. Designers have begun to include them as pieces to an outfit that look good worn both outside and indoors. Similar to the pantsuit’s jacket, trench coats are now becoming a versatile fashion accessory.

Over the last several weeks I’ve been watching trench coats pop up as the “in” item to be wearing this season. I first witnessed it on one of my favorite shows, What Not To Wear, where a pink trench coat was used as a top. I first balked at the idea, until I saw the fashion victim pair it up with some other great accessories and pieces of clothing. Next came an email from Isaac Mizrahi’s website that he had a Country-City Slicker available on his new online store. Looking at his gorgeous creation, I began to envision pairing it with gray or linen dress pants and some heels, maybe unbuttoning that top button to reveal some pearls. Since I know Mr. Mizrahi’s sense of style is never wrong, I knew a trend was emerging that would soon be seen no matter the city or town…at least when this weather decides to warm up.

One of the great things about trench coats is that it is figure flattering. While the basic layout of the trench coat is all the same, there are varying cuts and designs that can make any girl look good. It also adds a new dimension of style when you chose a trench coat with different patterns, cropped or below the knee, and with different adornments on it. Nevermind simply wearing it with pants, there are quit a few trench coats that are nice enough that they could be worn as a dress or paired with a skirt. Being that it is also an item for outerwear, it’s a great way not to have to add more bulk to your attire when heading outdoors. The fabulous trench coats you see in this post can be found at Bergdorf Goodman.

What do you think of the trench coat trend?

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

One big fashion mistake that many of us make is not choosing the right clothing to accentuate our shape, no matter what size we are. I know that I have fallen prey to this faux pas many times when I try to wear baggy clothes to hide a waistline I am not in love with. Getting my mindset away from “hiding” my figure and into choosing pieces of clothing that will flatter me hasn’t been easy, but if you don’t want to end up a fashion victim on What Not To Wear, it’s best to learn how to dress for your shape.

There’s more to shape than your typical “Apple” and “Pear” and what you chose in terms of cuts and patterns can either minimize the positive (or negative) or put the focus on a part of your body that is less than flattering. The various shapes range from petite, tall, triangle (hip heavy), top heavy (wedge), curvy/hourglass, or rectangular. What can complicate things even more is when you are petite in height or tall in addition to another shape, thus having to take many tips into account when choosing the correct pieces of clothing for you. It can get confusing and frustrating to say the least.

A great site I have come across is MyShape.com, which breaks down shapes into M, Y, S, H, A, P and E. Based on the measurements you enter into their survey, the system will accurately tell you which shape you are. You then set up a profile to also determine the type of style you prefer and MyShape.com can then make style recommendations that will flatter your figure. There is even an area where you can determine your color palette so that you know in addition to various cuts, which colors will also be flattering to your look. Using a site like MyShape simplifies shopping for the right look, fit, style and accessories so that you can emphasize the positive aspects to your shape.

Once my son is born, this is a program I am excited to try out. There is nothing worse than trying to shop for the right clothes, only to come out of the dressing room disappointed that an outfit didn’t fit right. MyShape.com looks to alleviate that anxiety and disappointment and make shopping fun again and looking like you have your own wardrobe stylist to boot!

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.

Fashion designer Oscar de la Renta will be inducted into the Fashion Hall of Fame by Kent State University's School of Fashion Design and Merchandising on Friday April 20th. The induction will coincide with a fashion show featuring the collections of more than 20 of the school's seniors who are majoring in fashion design. The school has been inducting prominent names in the fashion industry into its hall of fame since 1989.

Oscar de la Renta has received many honors over the years both within the US and internationally. He was inducted into the Coty Hall of Fame in 1973 and has won their Coty American Fashion Critic’s Award twice. In February 1990, he was honored with the CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award and received their Womenswear Designer of the Year Award in 2000. Oscar de la Renta has also been awarded the French Legion d’Honneur as a Commandeur.

The fashion school will be holding two shows, of which de la Renta will be present at the 7pm show. Ticket prices for non-students are $65 for the matinee and $200 for the evening show. All profits will benefit Kent State's fashion school. For more information about the shows you can visit their ticket website, however, online tickets are no longer available due to limited seating availability.

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."

A friend of mine who is in the modeling industry forwarded me this great article written in the Daily Mail today. The Daily Mail is a UK news site that I also read at least once a week to gain perspective on how those outside the US view our beauty and fashion industry (plus I cannot resist their celebrity gossip, it’s always entertaining). This particular article speaks of our fashion industry and model standards and how here in the Western World, we have a great love for fashion models with little meat on their bones.

Previously I had raved about John Lewis Department Stores forward thinking by using “average-sized” models in their swimwear campaign. Average being a size 12 and not a size zero. What I found most interesting today was the Daily Mail’s discussion on how those with curves and “average-sized” women are those who are most sought after in the African fashion industry. It’s really quite interesting to hear that high profile and in demand models such as Kate Moss or Jessica Stam, would rarely get a second glance if they hit the runway in Africa. Our idea of beauty is the complete opposite to those in Africa, where a healthy looking body is the sign of wealth and status. In the West, a healthy looking body means maybe you ate 3 meals today instead of 1.

While our ideals of what beauty in fashion means spreads throughout the world, I have to say it is refreshing to find a Country not caught up in it and relishes in their shapely figures. According to the Daily Mail, even Levi Strauss made changes to their red label jeans to accommodate those in Africa wanting to dawn a pair, yet couldn’t fit in the jeans aimed at Western shaped bodies.

I do find the modeling industry fascinating and I surely love the fashion industry, but you can’t help but love how another country is sticking to their ideals despite the pressure of conformity from Western society.

What do you think about seeing more average-sized models on the runway; does it take away from the beauty of idealism or does it represent our society today?

Ford Models can now do more than just strut on the runways or land a designer print ad campaign; they can also star in the new web series by Ford Modeling focusing on beauty, fashion, modeling and fitness tips. In a time when many companies are trying to spread brand recognition through viral marketing with web videos, Ford Models seem to have found the right formula of a high quality video, the right beauty and fashion professionals offering attention-grabbing behind the scenes tips, content to keep the viewer interested and of course, beautiful models to look at.

FordModels.tv has several different web series to choose from: Beauty Tips, Fashion Flash, Model Fitness, Ford Models 360 and Model Lifestyle. All episodes are under 3 minutes, most ranging from 30 to 90 seconds, making load time much faster and offering content that is simple and to the point.

Beauty Tips is just what the name implies; Fashion Flash are quick fashion trend “flashes” of fashion; Model Fitness focuses on fitness tips by Ford fitness model Kim Strother; Ford Models 360 is a blend of episodes about the season’s latest trends, while Model Lifestyle has the entertaining, “Changing Room Confessional” series. If you are a Blogger and your niche is beauty, fashion or fitness, FordModels.tv offers a variety of code to fit into a variety of blog formats including MySpace, RSS feeds and your typical blog. Code for the web series is provided by Revver, an online video service similar to You Tube, however those who produce videos and use the Revver service to upload them earn money each time their video is viewed.

FordModels.tv is a great way to get behind the scenes in the fashion and modeling industry in a pretty down to earth manner. I’m most in love with their Beauty Tips series, but have loved watching many of their fashion webisodes. Since FordModels.tv is a new venture for the modeling agency, it will be interesting to watch how these webisodes evolve.

After years in menswear, fashion designer Emmett McCarthy took an unexpected chance – he completely reinvented his image and parlayed his talents and expert technique into designing womenswear that is as classically chic as it is fashion forward.

Stylistically, Emmett favors clean lines, redefined details, and subtle construction, and finds himself applying this sensibility to the marvelous variety of silhouettes and fabric possibilities for women. Women have so many choices in terms of fashion. Looking beautiful, appropriate and fashionable can pose a challenge. Emmett and his design team strive to make the EMC2 experience a pleasure, whether in person or online. Emmett’s goal is to design pieces that truly make women feel as comfortable as they are confident – that is how Emmett defines luxury.

Emmett’s decision to open a studio boutique immediately rather than seek out other retail outlets, is at the heart of his creative process. He conceived EMC2 as a self-financed retail prototype, wholesale incubator, and creative laboratory where he could innovate the old-fashioned way – one product at a time, face-to-face with his clients.

As a Project Runway (Season Two) alum, Emmett continues to embrace the new roles both reality television and the online communities are forging in fashion. The intersection of mass and new media represents the future of how fashion is discussed and marketed, and is the new model for how brands are born and cultivated.

EMC2
240 Elizabeth Street, NY
www.EmmettMcCarthy.com

Media Contact:
Fashion PR Division: Christina at piercemattie dot com

While eco-fashion can be chic or trendy looking, it can also be practical for the ordinary person, including babies. MyConservationBaby.com designs upscale eco-fashion for the little ones so that they can make a statement with earth friendly clothing that spread the word to save our environment.

When gas prices began to skyrocket in 2006, Ellen and Michael McNeill became interested in conservation. While doing research on what impacts gas prices, they learned about energy, global warming and conservation. Rather than complain, they decided to do something about it and felt it was best to begin with those who would be the future environmental leaders of this world: children. Through their new line of baby and toddler clothing, your little one can declare conservation inspired messages such as, Stop Global Warming, Protect the Environment, Save the Forests, Recycle and Re-Use and Conserve.

Onesies and toddler t-shirts do come in both organic and non-organic cotton. However, for each of their non-organic cotton products the company has pledged to donate 1% of gross annual sales to environmental organizations through membership in 1% For The Planet.

I think these adorable onesies are perfect for families who already wear eco-friendly clothing and want the same for their new arrival.

Whenever we see any behind the scenes photos at fashion events, many times the models are seen with cigarettes in hand. Many even say they smoke to fill a hunger void. However, as we’ve seen with Camel taking on the beauty angle with Camel No.9, Davidoff Cigarettes decided to promote its brand at a pre-fashion week party in Australia last night.

Davidoff Cigarettes, a German cigarette company, collaborated with Belvedere Vodka to promote their cigarettes on the bar and through scantily clad promotional girls handing out free packs of cigarettes. The pre-fashion week party this was held at? A Red Ribbon Foundation party, which is an AIDS charity fundraiser, held by Fashion TV. I suppose you could say Davidoff was simply trying to help fundraise for one health issue while ignoring the fact that cancer is another. The double whammy of course being that cancer caused from smoking and AIDS are preventable deaths.

In Australia, they have a Public Health Act, and promoting a tobacco product by giving away free samples is an offence that could result in a fine anywhere from $5500 to $20,000. I’m not sure I understand why free cigarettes were promoted at an AIDS event, but I can only conclude that Davidoff was capitalizing on the fashion industry and glamour that has been associated with smoking and fashion in the past.

What do you think: Was it in bad taste for Davidoff to promote their cigarettes at an AIDS fundraiser? Do you think that the cigarette company was glamorizing a deadly habit through this fashion event?

Now that it seems like Spring is really here, one of my favorite fashion accessories to wear into the Fall is sunglasses. Sunglasses can totally make or break a look and can really enhance your fashion savvy quotient.

When you are choosing sunglasses, make sure you are buying a pair that will look great on your shape face. I see too many people either swimming in their sunglasses or wearing them too small. Men’s Flair wrote a great post on choosing the right sunglasses for your face shape a few weeks ago. Of course, a complimentary color and lens type should also be a consideration, as well.

Here are a few sunglasses I have a lemming for:

Juicy Couture Logo Rimless Glasses

Gucci Oversize Square Frame Sunglasses with Buckle Detail

Yves Saint Laurent Mask Sunglasses with Safari Rings

Giorgio Armani Pink Frame, Mauve Lenses Sunglasses

ROME-ITALY

This year I traded Thanksgiving turkey and stuffing for mozzarella and pasta. I just spent a week in Rome and how thankful I am!
When you think of Rome, you think of the Spanish Steps, The Colisseum and of course- The Vatican. The city is alive with treasures from the past. Rome has an unprecedented history of wealth and culture. Not only are there public monuments at every turn, the parks and palazzo's of the founding families are everywhere you look.

Rome is also one of the best shopping destinations in Europe. While Milan is home to the corporate end of the fashion business, Rome is definitely the first destination for first class shopping. The luxurious Via Condotti is the Rodeo Drive of Rome. Designer boutiques flank this fashionable address that begins at the mouth of the Spanish Steps - What an entrance! Expect to see all the big Italian names.

Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, and Roberto Cavalli to name a few.
What struck me the most while in Roma was an overwhelming trend I saw everywhere - RED. There were red coats, red hats, red bags, you name it!

Rome is also home to Valentino. He is the maestro of Italian fashion who made deep dark red his own trademark. The sexy rich color is also the name of his younger, hipper collection - Valentino RED.

The designer has been based in Rome for his entire career. Recently stepping down from his namesake company, the designer went out with a bang - holding a 45 year finale fashion show in Paris this past show season. It often confuses fans of the house as the designer has show his runway collections in Paris for 25 years, even though the company is based in Rome.
While the fashion flock might at first think that the love of the blood red hue is all due to the godfather of Italian fashion - however there is a more divine inspiration for the color. The Pope.
Rome is also of course home to the Vatican and the center of the Roman Catholic church. Remember, before the modern day Italian government - the Vatican was the ruling body of the Holy Roman Empire. The Pope was the ultimate ruler and to those who believe - the right hand of God on Earth. How could one argue with that??
The new Pope - Benedict XVI was famously photographed wearing Red Prada Loafers during his first days as Pope.

Who knew that the Pope was a fashion trend maker? There are even several stores near the Vatican where you can buy the same vestments the pope himself wears. I decided to go to the true source - Gamarelli's, just of the Piazza Minerva. They are the official tailor of the Pope. Of the top selling items are the RED socks worn during specific ceremonies. I couldn't resist.
The love of Red is taken to a whole new level by numerous women in Rome with their choice of Hair color! You be the judge - I shot these ladies from the back to.. lets say.. protect the innocent? Ciao Bella!!

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.

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

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

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!

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.

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

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