2015 TCAs — Best Dressed

Posted on August 20, 2015 by SMM

The 2015 Teen Choice Awards were held this past weekend, and naturally, tons and tons of major celebs were in attendance. Many graced the blue carpet, but here are my faves, ENJOY!!

Nina Dobrev

Nina was super chic & sexy in this look. Here are all of the fashionable details —

black and pink beaded minidress by Zuhair Murad
rose gold box clutch by Rodo and
clear-and-black Tamara Mellon sandals.

Chloe Lukasiak

Chloe was sassy and stylish in her palm tree printed Sabo Skirt top and forest green LUBLU Kira Plastinina skirt. Other look details included —

A.V. Max earrings
Shop Prima Donna bracelet
CC Skye cuff
Like Dreams clutch and
ivory Lulus heels
Styling by Audrey Brianne

Katie Stevens

Katie was red hot, fiery, and sexy in this crimson red Lorena Sarbu floral printed minidress. To complete her look —

Kimberly McDonald jewels
nude Christian Louboutin heels, and
Sonia M. Young for styling.

Laura Marano

Laura, stylish and elegant in —

Mixed media, royal purple Balmain fitted dress
Nude YSL heels
La Soula Jewelry (rings)

Lea Michele

Lea is full of smiles, radiantly glowing in this strapless red, white, and blue floral dress by Monique Lhuillier. Completing her look —

earrings by Norman Silverman Diamonds and EF Collection
Other jewelry — Nigaam, Graziela Gems
Brad Goreski for styling
Melanie Inglessis for Makeup (natural, glowing, sunkist)
John D for hair (wavy pulled back look)
Jenna Hipp for nails

Lucy Hale

Lucy is electrifying in this plunging V-neck black and blue embroidered Julien Macdonald minidress. She accessorized & styled her look with

a black Edie Parker clutch
earrings by Djula, and
black Stuart Weitzman sandals
Mark Girl makeup, nude lip with a bold, smoky eye by Kelsey Deenihan
Hair by Kristin Ess, sleek ponytail

Eva Gutowski

Eva looks like a red carpet pro in this stunning turquoise sequined mini from Henri’s Cloud Nine, but a Jovani creation!

Candice Patton

This is a dress I’ve actually featured on another best dressed list, but I can’t help but to dub it that way again for Candice! Full look details —

DSquared nude minidress,
a Kelly Wearstler bag,
Stuart Weitzman nude heels

Haley Ramm

Haley looks chic and sophisticated in this tea-length, rose pink, floral printed Adrianna Papell dress. So sweet! Other look details —

Swarovski hot pink studded clutch & jewelry
Shimmery pink Steve Madden heels
Hair by Melissa Adelaide (chignon updo)

Dove Cameron

Not sure of the designer details on this one, but I nonetheless love this sky blue sequined dress. Dove looks beautiful!

Fifth Harmony

These ladies always know how to rock sexy, fierce looks! Here is the breakdown for each gorgeous lady — (left to right)

Dinah is wearing a Candie’s navy blue mesh top, Alice and Olivia printed pants, and D’Orazio & Assoc accessories.(PR firm)
Ally is wearing a black off the shoulder N Nicholas top, Elizabeth & James white skirt with a high slit, and Candie’s shoes and accessories.
Normani is wearing a Candie’s sheer top and shoes, Ellery navy blue skirt with mid-slit, and D’Orazio & Assoc accessories.
Camila is wearing a black Candie’s crop top and heels, a Christopher Kane black skirt with thigh high slit, and D’Orazio & Assoc accessories.
Lauren is wearing a Karen Millen black jumpsuit and D’Orazio & Assoc and Candie’s accessories.

Greer Grammer

Another stunning look I am missing designer credits for, but you can’t go wrong with a LWD, well at least not like this! Greer looks amazing in this fitted LWD with a mid-riff cutout. Great choice in the bright pops of color with hot pink heels & a salmon clutch.

Gina Rodriguez

Gina look magnificent in this crocheted gunmetal Alberta Ferretti dress. Accessories include —

nude Christian Louboutin heels
silver baubles & rings by Le Vian
Sethi Couture earrings

Gregg Sulkin

Gregg is handsome and sexy as ever, decked out in Emporio Armani!!

PR, Ep. 2, Another Clear Winner!

Posted on August 16, 2015 by SMM

For Project Runway’s 2nd episode, we not only had the traditional unconventional material challenge, but by the runway’s end, another clear winner had been announced. Before all that, let’s hash out the episode details.

The designers met Tim at Hallmark, alongside Amy Merchant, Director of Branding for Hallmark Signature. Amy explained that just as with fashion, cards too can be pieces of art with stories to tell! In that spirit and for this unconventional materials challenge, it was only natural that the Hallmark Signature greeting cards be the materials used for the designers’ looks. The designers ransacked the Hallmark store, very quickly with only 2 minutes to shop, as they looked for inspirations and card embellishments that would potentially assist in embellishing their own creations this week.

It was then time to head back to the workroom for this 1-day challenge. There was some sorting and even designer sharing of the greeting cards. Although Edmond wasn’t quite so keen on sharing his thoughts or vision for the challenge. He even hesitated in sharing his plan during the behind-the-scenes interview! There was no singing this week in the workroom, but there was a little drama with Swapnil and Blake. Okay boys, to your corners!

Next up, Tim-time. Overall, Tim was thrilled with the designers’ ambition, but he cautioned the designers to watch their time. He worried more with time for some, such as Amanda, while others, he was worried about too much muslin or looks being too busy. Model fittings then seemed quite rushed, with focus on tight fits and worry over shortness.

By night’s end, Amanda was still in struggle-mode, while others were over the glue gun burns! The morning of seemed just as chaotic, with Hanmiao not sure what direction her look was supposed to go on, Gabrielle’s dress not opening, and Amanda calling out a manatee penis! It was then time for the runway, and joining Nina, Heidi, and Zac this week as guest judge was actress and producer Ashley Tisdale.

This week the judges named a top 4 and only a bottom 2. However, being that the judges weren’t all in agreement about this top 4, or at least one of the looks, I think they should have and definitely could have named a bottom 3. I’m not sure it would have changed the results, but a couple of designers could have too used stern warnings.

Ashley definitely got a word of warning from Heidi. It seems as if she did the same thing that sent one designer home this week. If Ashley didn’t have immunity, would she have been in the bottom? Yes. Sent home? Who knows?!? But Joseph for sure could have easily landed in the bottom with this oddly shaped, boxy skirt.

Merline too could have been a bottom contender. This look was sloppy, very arts & crafty, and even a bit in shambles. Gabrielle’s look too seemed to have some workmanship issues, definitely a short look! I see the work and vision here though, but I think she got caught up in it. But compared to her grey bland look from last week, I was happy to see more creative vision here, even if the vision wasn’t fully realized. (Great JustFab heels though, shout-out!)

Lindsey had a great start here as well, a vision, but I didn’t totally buy it. This look seemed a bit stiff, but I saw more here than the basic romper from last week so I’m hopeful. Jake’s look was a pretty, sparkly look, but not much more than a LBD. I wanted a little more here. This look just seemed a little safe. But I did love the fabulous JustFab accessories, metallic silver heels & a black clutch.

Candice had a little disco-ball fever with this metal-esque look. I thought it looked well-made for this type of challenge. Hanmiao too had an intriguing look. I thought the shape & fit was off, but the way she utilized the cards and organized them, it made her look very eye-catching.

Laurie was actually in my top. I loved this gold, shimmery frock. The top/bodice was exquisite. I thought it was fun, playful, and flirty! Keep up the good work Laurie!

But onto the judges’ top and to the clear winner of the week, Edmond. This bridal look was divinely elegant. It was as if art was coming down the runway. And way to help with pushing the brand Edmond; I’m sure Hallmark loved this! Heidi was right to point out so many great things about this ls look, such as the volume, proportions, and yes, even sexiness.

Shout-out for the nude heels, courtesy of JustFab. And Nina was 100% right here, this was such a special moment!

Blake may have been blunt earlier on in the episode, but going from last week to this look, it was massively impressive. Yes it was glitter mania. And you will either love it or hate it. But you have to look at this dress for what it is. It’s a fun party dress. You could rock it for a birthday, or even as Nina suggested, New Years. I’m sure you would stand out and sparkle all night!

I can see why Swapnil was in the top. I think both the top and the bottom here were phenomenal. However, I disagreed with the judges’ love of these 2 aspects as a combo deal. I felt such a disconnect. But I am head over heels about this crazy, cool floral embellished skirt.

Kelly rounded out the judges top 4. I still say a bottom 3 would have been better. But Kelly did do some great work here with this detailed crop top. The hoodie on the back, it was all just so stunning! I wasn’t crazed over the fringe skirt, but Kelly was another who took a big leap from the previous week’s look, so Kudos to her!

So in the bottom, only 2, Amanda and David. We all know Amanda was struggling with her skirt, meaning time was not on her side this week. The skirt was a little crazy, but I don’t think this look was as bad as the judges were going on about, especially in light of at least 2 other designers who I mentioned earlier, Merline & Joseph.

This top was pretty special. I’m not sure what was so special in certain other looks that kept them out of the bottom. But Amanda should have kept it more simple with the skirt. I’m glad she didn’t leave this week though!

Shout-out for this lovely side-swept updo, courtesy of Sally Beauty.

This left David going home. For almost any other challenge, I’m not sure the decision would be the same. But he really showed very little creativity with putting text on sparkled muslin. This is the same as when in the past judges have called out designers for using table cloth and shower curtains. The whole point is to use unconventional materials and David failed to do that.

I will give a shout-out though for David on all fronts — love the JustFab heels; Sally Beauty luscious waves; and natural, minimalist Mary Kay make-up look.

This might be one of the best bottom looks ever eliminated, but by not following the challenge guidelines, not thinking outside of the box, the judges could not ignore these facts.

#WCW — All Things Lauren Conrad

Posted on August 12, 2015 by SMM

So for this Wednesday, this #WCW, I am dedicating it, fashionably speaking, to the ever–talented, extremely gorgeous, forever fashionista Lauren Conrad, aka LC. I have been a fan of this lady ever since her reality days on Laguna Beach and The Hills. At first, I was always captivated by her own sense of personal style. Literally any outfit I would spot her in, I would want!

As soon as learned of her design work though, I knew I would be hooked on her own creations as well. So whether it is LC’s higher-end line in that of Paper Crown, or her more RTW pieces thru her exclusive line with Kohls, I have been and forever will be a fan.

Her collection with Paper Crown is for those who want to have fun…and look lovely while doing so. Lauren Conrad’s designs are a modern take on classic style, with an emphasis on fabric fit to create staples for the contemporary women’s closet.

The collection is composed of romantic dresses, feminine blouses, chic day wear, and tailored basics. The result: an understated elegance that is both effortless and sophisticated. There are even bridal pieces now with LC’s bridesmaid dress collection.

It was founded in 2010 by Lauren Conrad & Maura McManus. Now on its impressive 17th collection, the line shows 5 seasons and 6 to 8 deliveries a year, completely designed by Conrad. Her love of fanciful design elements that transcend the boundaries of everyday fashion are beloved by customers & fans alike.The paper crown brand continues to grow, while maintaining an aesthetic that is fresh and forward with a feminine charm.

Scattered throughout this post are images from current pieces by Lauren Conrad, on sale at Kohls. Also, I have images of my own personal items that I own from her various collections!

LC also has a lifestyle blog, encompassing decorating, crafting, fashion, and more! Lauren has added “best selling author” to her resume after signing multiple book deals with Harper Collins. Lauren’s first novel, “L.A. Candy” debuted #1 on the New York Times Best Seller List for over a month. Since releasing this first best seller, Lauren has released “Sweet Little Lies,” “Sugar and Spice,” “Lauren Conrad Style” and “Lauren Conrad Beauty,” all of which have topped best seller lists. Lauren then signed another book deal for series titled “The Fame Game,” penning her final books titled “Starstruck” and “Infamous.”

As if this lady was not already multi-faceted enough, Lauren has also teamed up with BlueAvocado, a sustainable lifestyle products company on a mission to inspire millions to reduce their ecological footprint with “cool products for a hot planet.” Lauren has since designed two eco-collections for BlueAvocado, which include stylish prints and new products that expand the company’s food-on-the-go product portfolio to include home storage, travel and cosmetic accessories.

Clearly I’m a fan and I hope to in the future read more of LC’s books, own more of her pieces, and maybe, just maybe, attend a fashion show or presentation of hers!

Project Runway is Back in Action!!

Posted on August 9, 2015 by SMM

And as always for the 1st episode, there is lots to report! Lots of designers. Lots of looks to grace the 1st runway. And lots of other show details from designer intros to workroom beginnings. So let’s get right to it with the 1st challenge of season 14!

Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn met the group of 16 designers at Madison Square Garden to give them their challenge details. It was nothing out of the ordinary, very typical for a PR 1st challenge. The designers had 1 day to create any garment of their choosing, as long as it represented their designer POV. There were a few tiny catches — limited fabrics (courtesy of Mood) and only 3 minutes to shop, and by shop I mean to run around Madison Square Garden as the fabrics were scattered over the arena, draped over the seats. Each designer could only take 4 textiles. And since the designers were only provided with a limited number of fabrics, these choices could be ones the designers would not typically work with or might not be familiar with using.

The designers got a little crazed running around the arena, lots of snatching and definitely some aggressive behavior. But it was then off to the workroom where everyone got settled into their workstations with some friendly hellos and getting to know each other a little better. The mood of the room came down quite a bit though with some of the designers questioning their fabric choices and a major PR first!

Three designers, David, Swapnil, and Merline, did not bring their designer kits. Needless to say, Tim was shocked as this had never happened before on PR. Those designers were left to the kindness of their fellow castmates. I’m assuming everyone was given a helping hand as nobody seemed to have any further issues. A bit of other drama from this 1st episode, #projectmusical. Merline was singing about the workroom, definitely being dubbed as the season chatterbox. All fellow designers seemed quite annoyed to say the least!

The fun and laughter came to a quick end as Tim Time came around. There was a mixture of nervous designers, questions from Tim, and even some praise. Notably Tim had a disconnect with Edmond and some disagreements with Hanmiao. But overall, Tim left the designers with some firm notes. He was very disappointed and wanted the designers to turn their lumps of coal into diamonds!

As time for the first runway rolled around, it was also time for some of the season’s intros. The entire runway and set for the runway had been re-invented. Accessories this year were provided by JustFab. Mary Kay Cosmetics were back to provide makeup services. And new for this year, Sally Beauty was on board to work as the hair team.

As in previous seasons, the runway was being judged “anonymously” and the Tim Gunn save would return. The 1st guest judge of the season to join Heidi, Nina, and Zac was Hannah Davis, model and soon to be host of PR Junior.

With regard to the massive 1st runway, I was not in total agreement with Heidi’s statement that it was so spectacular. There was definitely some highlights, but I kind of agreed with Tim’s earlier sentiment of disappointment. Many of the safe designers were just that, lucky to be safe. The bottom 3 I couldn’t say I disagreed with, but I believe a few other designers could have easily found themselves to be in the bottom. I will give one honorable mention that was in my top, but forgotten by the judges, and that was Swapnil’s sassy royal blue frock. I love this color choice and the bodice was intricately created and detailed. In the midst of mediocrity, Swapnil certainly stood out for me.

Another quick honorable mention, Amanda. The more and more I look at her design, the more and more I like it. But what I wanted to point out was a shout-out for her work with Mary Kay and Sally Beauty. We see a lot of updos on PR, so to see a fresh, gorgeous hair look that is down, I had to give some props here. But also, I thought the sunkist, bronzed beauty look was a great pairing with her flirty, girly, fun look.

Ashley was the clear winner though this week. This look was so chic, very fashionable. I can’t imagine any young fashionista wouldn’t be over the moon to wear this piece!

Ashley not only created a rave look, but she stood out with hair and makeup as well. This lovely chignon updo by Sally Beauty was spot on. And the bold burgundy lip by Mary Kay was a great touch.

I was 100% in agreement with the judges here, top 3 placement and winning look. I loved that Nina pointed out the texture. This was so impressive for a 1st look and I’m happy Ashley was given immunity for next week. But I would hope she doesn’t need it!

The other 2 designers in the top I was more on the fence about. Edmond’s black tube dress with a train, showcasing a bright neon color, was very much a turnaround from Tim time. But I’m not sure about the neon fabric on the train as Hannah pointed out as well. In fact, several of the designers made use of a yellow under-fabric so I’m guessing it might have been the most prevalent of the fabric choices at Madison Square Garden. Clearly Mood was trying to get rid of this busy color! I believe it was Nina that was quick to remind her fellow judges that this was not overly innovative, a tube dress with a train. I might have responded differently without the neon color, maybe a royal purple or cobalt blue, but I get that Edmond was working with what he had. I appreciate his ability to “make it work”!

Merline rounded out the top 3 this week, but I was not so gaga over this one. I loved the use of color. And there were some nice details, but I just wasn’t over the moon here. Just as with Edmond though, I know Merline did a lot to make this work. I would just hope for the future we see less chat and more work. It will only serve to improve her work.

Nobody wants to be the first to go, but this is PR and each week there is a bottom 3 and one must go. Of the bottom 3, I was so surprised to see Blake become a part of this, so I’m happy he was saved. I loved Blake’s audition pieces, so I certainly didn’t want him axed first. This print could be a lot to take, but I think it was a bold, daring choice, which I applaud him for. However, there was a lot going on here and with such a busy print, too much wasn’t going to work. And again, we see this god awful yellow color as part of an under-fabric, which really didn’t make much sense. So I don’t disagree with the judges on this one, but I’m hopeful we will see better from Blake in the future!

This left Hanmiao and Duncan in the bottom 2. The judges felt Duncan didn’t do enough and when it comes down to designers not doing enough versus doing too much, the one who doesn’t do enough generally goes home. What saved Hanmiao was the judges did get her aesthetic, which was not a vibe they received from Duncan. I actually believe if Hanmiao had ditched the jacket she would have been safe. The dress on it’s own wasn’t altogether terrible, but with the matchy-matchy coat, it was too much. The dress still had some issues, but I’m guessing with sole focus on the dress, it might have been better. I know she demonstrated a stubborn side with Tim, but Duncan firmly stood by his design with the judges. On top of doing too little, it just wasn’t going to clearly work out in saving Duncan.

Duncan selected a stunning bun updo, which I loved for this look. I also liked the back. But other than that, this gown was a hot mess. If you are going to just drape, you have to do so superbly. And this wasn’t it. Duncan accepted his elimination well though; he left with his head held high.

Project Runway Returns!

Posted on August 5, 2015 by SMM

Lifetime’s hit reality series, Project Runway, is back for it’s 14th season this Thursday, August 6th!! As an avid fan, I know I am excited!! How about you?!? I wanted to put together a little intro piece for this exciting event, discuss the designers, the season details, and more! So for all you PR fanatics just like me, ENJOY!!

There are 16 designers coveting and competing for the PR title this season. Not only is the competition for the title, but a host of prizes including:

$100,000 to launch his or her business
a Celebrity Cruises® modern luxury vacation
a year’s worth of products courtesy of Sally Beauty
the opportunity to consult with Sally Beauty to create a limited edition “FingerPaints” nail color collection
a 2015 Lexus RC 350
a complete sewing and crafting studio from Brother Sewing and Embroidery
a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, and
from Mary Kay, an entire year’s worth of beauty products for their fashion shows and professional makeup artist services for their debut show.

In addition to the always impressive and talented judges, Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Zac Posen and mentor Tim Gunn (and his save!), top names in the entertainment industry sitting as guest judges this season include: Bella Thorne, Kiernan Shipka, Tracee Ellis Ross, Paula Patton, Ashley Tisdale, Shiri Appleby, Constance Zimmer, Ciara, Mel B, Coco Rocha, Lisa Perry, and Hannah Davis.

So let’s meet the designers —

Amanda Perna: 28, Delray Beach, FL

Amanda’s studies included The University of Alabama, as well as a first internship with Oscar de la Renta. Her strengths, putting together cohesive collections, mixing colors and prints, as well as thinking outside the box.

More on Amanda & her brand The House of Perna —

Gabrielle Arruda: 27, New York, NY

Gabrielle hails from NYC and studied at the infamous Parsons, The New School for Design. Her strengths include time management and designing pieces that reﬂect her style and accomplish the task at hand. She has a modern and feminine sensibility infused into her designs.

Maxi Dresses Galore!!

Posted on July 30, 2015 by SMM

We are in the midst of summer, and there is nothing I love more than a stunningly gorgeous maxi dress. I would fabulously wear them all year long, were it not for the brutally cold winters here in NYC!

Check out some great finds of mine though from some of my fave designers and brands!!

MODCLOTH

Cabo Colada Dress

TRINA TURK

Nikka Dress

YUMI KIM

Dance to Dawn Maxi

Hot Summer Night Maxi

URBAN OUTFITTERS

Kimichi Blue Stormy Deluxe Maxi Dress

DVF

Orchid Silk Jersey Wrap Maxi Dress

FREE PEOPLE

Cutout Printed Maxi Dress

FRANCESCA’S

Marakech Printed Maxi Dress

NASTY GAL

Nasty Gal x For Love & Lemons Tropicana Embroidered Maxi

NICOLE MILLER

Tarnished Textile Maxi Dress

ALICE + OLIVIA

Shona Trapeze Maxi Dress

DESIGUAL

Dress Frambuesa

CLOVER CANYON

Warrior Weave Contrast Maxi Dress

NYFW: Men — Inspirations Come to Life

Posted on July 23, 2015 by SMM

Once again, the inaugural NYFW: Men was last week. With all of the shows going on, I was quite impressed with the passionate inspirations of 2 designers — Loris Diran & Malan Breton.

So first up, Loris Diran, with Am I Blue?

The S/S 16 collection for Loris Diran reinterprets summer navy as a softer alternative to black, all while maintaining its strength & sensual mystique. The palette consists of deep navy, teal, turquoise, espresso, and chamois. The unlikely use of rustic texture works itself into the urban aesthetic, which underscores the entire season.

There is such a refinement with these pieces, truly showcasing that the designer knows high quality and knows how to dress a man for both upscale and more casual looks. I appreciate with this collection the attention to detail and versatility. There is a great ability here then to mix and match many of these pieces, and overall wear in various fashions.

Diran continues with this collection to march on with his “New Look”: uber soft, washed sulting sans padding and stiff interfacing, yet maintaining a slim, defined silhouette. With a nod to the 80s and a distinct juxtaposition of sportswear to sartorial traditionalism, the collection pairs pieces atypically to create a new masculine sensibility.

Show credits —

Footwear — Fiorentino & Baker
Hair & Grooming — Christo 5th Ave
Styling — Shay Dixon
Music — Reed McGowan

And now, Malan Breton, showcasing his inspirational tale of his journey home to Taiwan thru the art of design.

Malan Breton HOMME presented a collection for S/S 16 of sportswear, swimwear, suiting, and underwear. The collection is modern, sleek, and made in comfort fibers like silk cotton and bamboo, all lending to the modern lifestyle of the man on the go, with exploration of the techniques of wetsuit design. Breton incorporates fusing elements and finds inspiration in the batik techniques and tradition of the Hakka Blue shirts of his homeland — Taiwan.

I was such a fan of Malans’ on during his time on Project Runway. I’ve been so eager to attend one of his shows and I was quite pleased and impressed for my first time in attendance. You could clearly see Malan’s inspiration here, relating back to his journey to his home homeland, Taiwan. The prints were vivid, the color palette was consistently logical, and the silhouettes/shapes were quite innovative. Great work Malan! I can’t wait to see more!

The brand will introduce its first collection of eyewear, cufflinks, and skateboards this season as well. All is made of the highest quality elements — brushed metals, Swarovski crystals, and enamels. These materials accentuate Malan’s philosophy of high style, but continue in the path of total comfort giving every man’s Summer 2016 wardrobe comfort & control.

Show credits —

Presented by — Taiwan, The Heart of Asia
Hair — ECRU NY
Beauty — Bella
Shoes — Giorgio Brutini
Press — La Presse PR

Modern, Trendy Menswear for S/S 2016

Posted on July 19, 2015 by SMM

This past week marked the inaugural fashion week for menswear — NYFW: Mens. And 2 brands certainly caught my eye with a very high-fashion, modern and trendy take for menswear in S/S 2016 — Grungy Gentleman & Timo Weiland.

First up, Grungy Gentleman with “Defense Wins Championship”, Designer Jace Lipstein.

The show took place at The Super Market, featuring an art installation by visual artist Gazoo to the Moon, as well as a special musical performance from renowned piano player, ELEW. The runway show featured other highlights as well with the brand’s latest collaborations. There were Mitchell and Ness hats, UGG for Men partnership with shoewear, and eyewear from Maui Jim with sunglasses.

Grungy Gentleman is known for its thoughtful, subtle details, paired with masculine simplicity. But this season, the brand highlighted its sartorial side with this vast collection, sprinkling in some luxurious, athletic tailoring. The label introduced a new logo and subtle recreations of their signature six-stripe pattern. I enjoyed seeing a great mix of classic styles and colors with tan, black, and white pieces. But it was great seeing such bold and bright pops of color in that of teal and cobalt blue..

A little background on this NY-Based men’s lifestyle brand — it combines design, digital media, and commerce with the services of a creative agency. The company is driven to create an innovative culture where fashion, sports, and entertainment converge, promoting the expression of individuality to both high fashion and urban cultures thru the brand’s product lines, website, and e-store. So who is the Grungy Gentleman? He is a collector, a gentleman, a rebel spirit, and a man who stands apart. He is building a style collection with thoughtful details and masculine simplicity He is bold, brilliant, has fierce taste, pours life into his passion, and is one who takes risks.

Right before the show, the brand offered to its guests a little something different by showcasing their new website. The new Grungy Gentleman site features a clean, new aesthetic that seamlessly mixes content & commerce. The site was conceptualized and built by web developer Benjamins Dev.

Show credits —

Hair — Jon Reyman for Spoke & Weal, using AVEDA & Olivia Garden
Grooming — Nivea
Refreshments — Tanqueray, Peroni, Red Bull, & KIND
Show PR & Production — Factory PR

Moving on from the dynamic Grungy Gentleman showcase, let’s now check out Timo Weiland.

The lyric, “I love you more than being seventeen” by Julian Casablancas ,the lead vocalist of The Strokes, was translated in this Timo Weiland SS’16 presentation.

Timo Weiland’s take on menswear for S/S 2016 was certainly encapsulating of a modern, hip, super trendy vibe. The bold, vivaciously dynamic prints, mixed with a playfulness of cuts & styles, definitely made this presentation a stand-out.

Show credits —

Design Director — Alan Eckstein
Stylist — Haley Loewenthal
PR — Paul Wilmot
Music — Mia Moretti
Makeup — Janessa Pare for Aveda
Hair — Joseph DiMaggio for Davines
Casting — Edward Kim of The Edit Desk
Shoes — Dr. Martens
Eyewear — Cutler & Gross
Production — Navia Vision

Marie Odile for Soltek — Happy Bastille Day!!

Posted on July 12, 2015 by SMM

So for those who do not know, Bastille Day (July 14th), is a French national holiday, which celebrates the commencement of the French Revolution with the “Storming of the Bastille.” It should then come as no surprise that French native handbag designer Marie Odile has created a collection to help in celebrating this holiday! Marie Odile for Soltek handbags are always colorful, stylish, and timeless. And with this recent celebratory collection, the brand’s vision has not been lost!

Marie Odile for Soltek blends French glamour with a minimal NYC aesthetic. The founder, Marie Odile Sharkey-Berard, was born in France and received her education in fashion in Paris before emigrating to New York in 1970. Her first stints in NY included Charles Jourdan, Roger Vivier and Arche. In 2010, she began Soltek Inc. The first bags were made in Naples, Italy, but production was later moved to Manhattan, NY. The collections are made entirely by wonderful craftsmen in the heart of the Fashion District!

Marie Odile designs bags ranging from totes and clutches to crossbodys and satchels, also bucket bags, shoulder bags, and other leather goods. She uses an incredibly diverse portfolio of materials including cow leather (plain or printed/embossed); canvas; cork; hemp and vegan leather substitute. The versatility and variety are just 2 of the aspects from this designer, and her collection, that I enjoy. I also like the intricacy, the close attention to detail, and the eclectic, unique spirit each handbag has to offer.

I am positive we will continue to hear great things from this talented designer, on top of a good amount of press already out on her and her brand — Accessories Magazine, Pulse, Obscurae Magazine, Travel Host, Lucky, and more! I hope all of my Fashion Nexus readers have enjoyed the pieces once again for Marie Odile’s Bastille Day collection, but here are a few other pieces from her brand, a few of my personal faves!

What’s Hot for Swim in 2015!!

Posted on July 8, 2015 by SMM

There is still a great deal of time left for swimsuit season so let’s take a look at what I consider to be HOT for Swimwear in 2015!! I’m pulling some great finds from some all-time fave brands, but also, some new treasures I’ve uncovered! ENJOY!

SAUVAGE SWIMWEAR