Kia Von Vega — Latest Collection

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT — Eugene DeVillamil

When I first started Fashion Nexus, back in 2014, I had the greatest pleasure of being introduced to bombshell designer Kia Von Vega. So amazing to now see more work from this unique designer voice, and what a great way for her to ride out 2017, and ring in 2018 with a bang — debuting her latest collection!

Kia Von Vega showcased her Clear Boutique Pre-Fall collection at the False Alarm Warehouse in Williamsburg on December 10, 2017. On top of signature Kia sexiness with her looks, we saw a lot of bold color and graphic prints.

“The collection inspiration was glamour and style for the intellectual woman” says Kia Von Vega. “The pieces have raw strength. The collection is for confident women who are not afraid to be”.

I enjoyed that Kia stayed true to her voice with this collection, but still offered such a variety and something new for her clients with this presentation.

Beautiful styling for the looks was created by Chloe Lynn, Deanna Wilklow, Monty Bee, Taylor Vincenti, Babette Douglas, Jen Elyse Feldman, Haley Conroy & Lauren Moscato.

International Celebration Fashion Show

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Photography by David Drese & Carlos Rodriguez for Isadora B. Photography

As always, I love attending shows put on by the dynamic duo, Tawni Huber of Dramatizon Makeup & Fallon Fitzpatrick (for hair). Last year, I put on a belated birthday fashion show. So this year, I went with an early one! I of course immediately reached out to these 2 talented ladies, and this international themed show was certainly a success!!

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Tawni is the mastermind creator of the various makeup designs you see throughout this post. The theme for this show was a celebration of other countries and cultures, an international celebration!! As always, her work was so detailed, so imaginative, and it really suited each international style or culture that she was wishing to portray.

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Fallon is the stunning visionary who creates the vast array of hair designs to further foster the international, exotic concepts. Her work is always intricately crafted and really the greatness of her work is in the details!

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The focus of the show is certainly on the hair & makeup designs. But it is always important for the team to bring in clothing designers that will best suit the overall theme. For the ladies, Harem Swimwear was that perfect fit. The bikinis certainly had that exotic, international quality. And for our gents, creating an even more perfect canvas for the show, they wore Alberto Pants.

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The show was held at Skyroom, the best venue for these shows as it has a rooftop lounge with an amazing view of the city! I must also give a shoutout to the stunning models we had for this show. I couldn’t have asked for a better group and I know Tawni & Fallon would agree! I was very excited to see once again, the lovely GinaMarie Zimmerman, who was a former contestant, 2nd place finisher, on one of my own personal fave summer shows, CBS’s Big Brother!!

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I am super excited that Tawni & Fallon will be creating their own show during NYFW, next week in fact!! It will a great opportunity for them to show their talent to a much larger audience. And of course, I am hopeful that their annual Halloween show will be back in October to get us all in the spooky mood!

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Photography by David Drese & Carlos Rodriguez for Isadora B. Photography

NYLON guys — Events Galore!

NYLON guys has been hard at work in recent weeks, with lots of in-store events and collaborations for fashion bloggers and industry insiders to attend. I’ve had the pleasure of attending 2 such events, one at SAKS, and the other at Lord & Taylor. Here are some details from those events, and information on some dynamic menswear brands that you must get to know!

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The first event I attended was back in March, a Night of French Contemporary Clothing held at SAKS. The event featured bold European menswear brands — AMI, Kenzo, Maison Kitsune, MelindaGloss, and The Kooples.

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DJ’g at the event was Body Language, and while chatting or listening to the tunes, you could sip on the courteous open bar setup, such choices as Svedka Vodka or Black Velvet Whiskey.

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Other brands too set up for some courteous treats, such as Sisley Paris, offering pampering with their skincare beauty products.

But the highlight of the evening was seeing top menswear bloggers donning the brands’ looks!!

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Next up, NYLON guys co-hosting with Lord & Taylor, for a denim shopping event, but also the chance to meet top menswear blogger Adam Gallagher of i am galla. Again, this was an event with a great DJ, yummy treats, and open bar!

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creating your own t-shirt

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Sydney Evan — Back at Bergdorfs — Custom Charm Bar!!

The stunning and unique jewelry brand — Sydney Evan — is back at Bergdorf Goodman this week for its annual Custom Charm Bar event. I’ve had the distinct pleasure of attending this event last year, meeting the kind and talented founder of the brand, Rosanne Karmes, and later fully featuring Sydney Evan on Fashion Nexus! I encourage all of my readers, if you are in NYC, to check out this event; there is still time to head over tomorrow to check out all of the brand’s wonderful charms!

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Bergdorfs is located at 754 5th Ave. The event will begin at 12 pm and will end at 6 pm. The purpose behind the event is so that —  jewelry enthusiasts and Sydney Evan fans will have the opportunity to work alongside designer Rosanne Karmes to create their very own personalized Sydney Evan beaded bracelet and/or necklace. When I attended last year, Rosanne worked so patiently and attentively to each of her guests. It was truly a fun occasion! Here are some pics I took last year —

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The custom bead bar will offer a variety of 14k gold and pave diamond charms to choose from, including the brand’s signature spiritual styles like hamsas and evil eyes, lucky symbols, new zodiac charms, and Sydney Evan’s celebrity coveted “Love” word charms; paired with a rainbow of beaded bracelets or beaded lariats made from semiprecious beads or varying length chain necklaces.  Karmes will be on site to help customers create their very own custom creation that represents their personal style, which will be available for pick up within 24 hours of ordering. 

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And remember, even if you can’t make the event, Sydney Evan can still be purchased online or in various retailers across the U.S., or even international retailers. Sydney Evan is a true trend-setting luxurious jewelry brand. And you can rest assure that when purchasing any Sydney Evan pieces you are purchasing only the highest of quality. You can even check out the great deal of press the brand has rightfully received since its inception, from major editorial spreads in Nylon, Harrods, Cosmo, Bazaar, People, and more, to  a major celeb following and fan base — J. Lo., Mila Kunis, Emma Stone, Lea Michele, Bar Rafaeli, Hilary Duff, Kate Hudson, Lauren Conrad, & more!

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Sydney Evan really seeks to satisfy each and every customer. If you have any questions there are a myriad of ways to communicate, including on social media-Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. So enjoy the event if you attend or just browsing the Sydney Evan website!

 

 

 

 

Check Out M.M. Lafleur’s NYC Pop-up While You Can!

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I was first introduced to M.M. Lafleur earlier this year at Baublebar’s pop-up during a collaboration event. M.M. Lafleur is both a luxury fashion brand, but also, very much a high fashion label. You can always shop online, but until Nov. 3rd, you can also check out their pop-up in Soho, 91 Grand Street. Look below for their remaining upcoming events!

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There is a wide variety both at the popup and online, lots of cuts, fits, silhouettes, and colors. You can check out the full selection here and see just how amazing the styles are, from the Mae to Michaella to Yoko to Sophia. Also available at the popup are great selections of belts, blazers, cardigans, and scarves. With M.M. Lafleur you are getting amazing quality, but at a more affordable price, as compared to the high-end luxury designers.

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The design team is packed full of experience. You have a former head designer for Zac Posen, who also worked with major brands such as Jason Wu and Theory. The fabric is nothing but the best as it’s shipped from top mills in both Italy & Japan. The belts are high quality leather. M.M. Lafleur’s ethos, as they say, is simple: to make the purposeful woman look and feel beautiful. Learn more about the brand here!

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There is a lot rave about with this brand. There is so much versatility. The colors are very much on trend for the upcoming fall season, with options of lilac grey, peacock blue, oatmeal, aubergine, mayan red, charcoal, black, cinnamon and more. But what is great is that the colors are not just geared for the upcoming seasons, it will also work throughout the year. You can wear with or without tights/hosiery, dress up in heels or down with flats, and you could even pair with a light jacket or sweater if need be.

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There are a few specific upcoming events for the pop-up’s final days:

  • Friday, Nov. 1st, 6-8 pm: Shopping Event for Women in Law
  • Sat., Nov. 2nd, 1-3 pm: Keep Calm & Carry on with Hitha on the Go
  • Sun., Nov. 3rd, 2-4 pm: Building your Personal Brand

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So while it’s sad the pop-up vanishes after Nov. 3rd, it doesn’t mean there are not amazing opportunities to shop online. This team knows a woman doesn’t just try on one dress and tada!, that it’s the winner. When you shop online, you can select up to 4 dresses to have shipped. You then have 7 days to make your decision. Shipping is on Lafleur, both ways, how awesome is that?!? You only pay for what you keep! M.M. Lafleur is working diligently to find tailors to partner with across the nation. For now, in NYC, there is Beyond Bespoke. So if you need to make any tweaks, you can receive a discount from their tailor partners.

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If you have questions, you can easily contact the team or check out the FAQs page.

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BaubleBar Pop-Up in Soho is THE Jewelry Glamspot this Summer!

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Here is the basic rundown on what you need to know about BaubleBar:

  • You can always shop for some amazing and glamorous pieces online!
  • However, to get the best firsthand shopping experience, you have to stop by the Baublebar Pop-Up
  • The Pop-up is located in Soho, 131 Greene Street
  • It will close up shop August 13th so get there now and go often!

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Those are the basics, but the gist is, this summer, at the Pop-up, there is always something going on besides shopping for jewelry! This is the Calendar for the specific events ongoing. Generally, you can be sipping on a Godiva Chocolatini, sampling some yummy goodies, mingling, trying on pieces, taking pictures in their photobooth or checking out some vendors who are set up in the Pop-up, such as Hint Bottled Water.

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I recently attended a very fun event where Stacy London was in attendance. She is most known for her co-hosting role on What Not to Wear. However, she is also a stylist/fashion consultant, author and magazine editor. It was such a great time networking and mingling with fellow attendees, enjoying Chocolatini’s and of course shopping!! I was excited to pick up this pink and gold jeweled elephant bangle. It is so cute!

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If you don’t go just for shopping, here is a quick rundown on what else you can attend this week!:

  • 7/30-Intern Mixer, there is a cost of $10, but you get a $15 giftcard. There will also be wine, champagne and appetizers! Click for Ticket Information!
  • 7/31-Dagne Dover & MM Lafleur Party-a fun collaboration with Dagne and handbags, MM dresses, Milk & Honey Shoes and of course BaubleBar jewelry! There will also be complimentary champagne and manicures by Mia Dolcea. RSVP here!!
  • 8/1-LadyDrinks + Fatigues to Fabulous-This is a celebration of women vets returning from war. TV anchor Joya Dass will be there, Tix are $25 w/ proceeds going to Fatigues to Fabulous to help support women veterans, RSVP here.
  • 8/2-Shop the World: Shoptiques & BaubleBar-evening of fashion, champagne & shopping; Delicious macaroons will also be served! RSVP here! $10 BaubleBar giftcard with every purchase!
  • 8/9-Style Line Relaunch-live performance by NOOSA, RSVP here!

And more so always keep your eyes to the Calendar!

Meeting Designers & Trunk Shows at Bergdorfs & Bendels, & More!!

I was planning on going to the X-Factor auditions today, however I chose to explore the city for my weekly event write-up instead. I had another full day of exploration as I went to meet designers and view trunk shows at both Bergdorf Goodman and Henri Bendel. I also made it by 1 sample sale, nOir Jewelry. I was sad that the J.Crew sample sale line was way too long and that Rachel Zoes’ had just closed. Remember to check my Events page for full details on the many sample sales that are still ongoing or starting next week.

Before getting to all of the amazing events and fun I had today, I did make one pitstop. It was way too tempting to not stop by Abercrombie & Fitch as I was running around. I know their press has not been great, but the shirtless greeter was just way too pretty! And you can take pictures or get a free picture taken and printed right there, on the spot!

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Going back to my other just as thrilling events for today, I first went to Bergdorfs. I was able to meet Rosanne Karmes, who founded Sydney Evan jewelry. She was there helping customers as they were browsing, shopping or wanting to create a custom-made pieces with unique beads. She was so pleasant and her daughter, Sydney was there as well, who is just as sweet. There were a lot exquisite pieces that range from bold colors to more classic pieces in white gold and gold. If you can’t make it by Bergdorfs, you can check out her collection and shop online.

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My 2nd stop within Bergdorfs was to meet eyewear/sunglass designer Patty Perreira for Barton Perreira. She was doing a trunk show and the sunglasses were very trendy and cool. There are a lot of options to choose from so certainly get to Bergdorfs if you can or visit her site online to check out the various collections.

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Next, I headed over to H. Bendels, where I met hair-wear accessory designer Yuya Takahashi for Pluie. This brand and collection have hit it big in Japan and I can see a market for the pieces here in the U.S. The inspiration was nature, a little more specific to the coast or water/nautical. The designs were of coral, starfish and the like. The pieces would certainly perfect any hair-do style. All in all, just very gorgeous. Check out more pieces online if you can!

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Finally, I made my way to just the one sample sale, nOir Jewelry. I wish I had gone sooner so I could have gotten the word out about what amazing pieces they have. Unfortunately, today was the last day, but you can shop online and I am positive there are still some great deals.

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I had a busy day and dropped off just as many cards as I accumulated today. For me, this equates to being a productive day and definitely a great substitute to attending the live X-Factor auditions!

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No 1 Set Event-Sample Sale Journeys & More!!

Two days this week I have walked the streets of NYC as I was hopping from sample sale to sample sale. Thus, I did not attend any one set event this week to write about, but I did want to tell of my sample sale journeys as I saw some great deals and I did make a purchase or 2 myself!

First though, I must tell of a special find as I was out today. I had just left the sample sale for Mara Hoffman and I noticed the sign for EMc2. I knew immediately that this was the boutique for Emmett McCarthy, who was on  Project Runway a few seasons back. I loved him on that show and I thought, well I at least can stop by and drop off my card and maybe he would contact me. I was so surprised that he was there and we chatted for quite some time. It is always great making new friends while running around NYC!! I was also happy for some great goodies I found at his shop, Tim Gunn memorabilia, yay!!

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So while most of the sample sales I am writing about will be over soon, I can make mention that Emmett is having a major sale himself running throughout the rest of June!! You should definitely make a point to stop by 240 Elizabeth Street if you are in that area!! He has pieces going for $50 and up. This would be a great time to find some truly unique pieces from a great talent.

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As far as sample sales, I probably went to 10 on Wednesday and then about 4 today, Friday. A few have ended, but many are ending after this weekend. Of course there are several starting next week so do not fear! Please check out my Events page for all of those details! My point here is that if you like a brand, get to these sales because I guarantee you will find some great deals. I have not really experienced any long waits or lines. I did try a few things on today at Alice & Olivia’s sale and the dressing room area was a bit crowded. However, all of the fellow shoppers were very friendly and I tell you, when girls see sample sales and want to try stuff on, they really become open and not shy at all!! The staff at the events have also been great so that has been a plus as well.

My best find was of course on my 2nd go to for the Alice and Olivia sale. It has always been a dream of mine to own a dress from them and today I made that purchase! To get such a smoking hot leather dress, originally priced at $1000 for like a 1/10 of that price is CRAZY!! There were 2 locations, but now its down to just 1. The Soho spot will be open until Sunday and is located at 72 Greene Street. I say get there ASAP as prices have already been slashed once, but they have such a huge selection still so I can easily see another big slash happening! Nothing is over $200 from what I saw today.

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Another great purchase I found was at Nanette Lepore. It was just a simple pair of black rainboots, but $30, wow! I also got a great Nanette Lepore tote with the purchase so that was an added plus. This sale unfortunately is over, but again there are so many coming up that there is still time!!

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So its the sale and discount season and I urge NYC shoppers to get out there and find some great deals. The big ones for next week-J.Crew, nOir, Rachel Zoe, Cynthia Rowley, & more so again, visit my Events page.

Event Highlight from the City that Never Sleeps-#1

There was a lot going in, event-wise, in NYC this week, as there generally is. There are a lot of sample sales, store closings and even new store openings such as with Baulebar at 131 Greene Street. The event I chose to attend and write about this week was at CB2 located at 451 Broadway. In conjunction with USA Network’s Characters Unite Program and the GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) an event was being put on to address the social injustices and cultural divides still prevalent in our society. The groups involved want to spread awareness and do so with various events around the hashtag #IWontStandFor.

The event started at 5 and went until about 7:30. I was only able to stay for just a short bit, but it was already fairly crowded. I imagine it stayed that way. It was a great event for people to network and of course for the groups involved to spread their powerful message. There was a lot to take part in such as creating your own T-shirt with your slogan of I Won’t Stand For ______ or taking a picture for your chosen slogan as well. The T-shirts were provided generously by American Apparel as all of the promotional materials were available free of charge.

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Miniature postcards were being handed out to show what chosen word one would want to fill in their blank for the slogan “I Won’t Stand for _____. Terms included were intolerance, discrimination, homophobia, prejudice, bullying, injustice and more. All in all, this was just one of the many great events in NYC, but with such a powerful message I had to attend and post about on my blog. I encourage everyone to learn more about the Characters Unite Organization.

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