Style Fashion Week at #NYFW

Posted on September 30, 2015 by SMM

This post is dedicated to many of the talented designers who showcased at Style Fashion Week!

Such stunningly gorgeous couture creations!

A truly exciting show, from start to finish — high energy, there were models on pointe down the runway, extreme to the max! Lance Bass, Carson Kressley, Ryan Burke, and a few other celeb names were in attendance.

NANCY VUU

Luxury, high quality childrenswear — fanciful young ladies, all ready for a spring tea in the garden!

UWI TWINS FASHION

Bold, sexy looks for modern, confident women, so daring! Escaping out of the Rwandan genocide to be in NYC, presenting such a wonderful collection, it was all truly moving.

GLAUDI

Clean, chic, very minimalist, but overall, some great RTW pieces for the ladies!

CLUBWEAR

A spunky take and with added effect, the models strutted down the runway with golf clubs, genius! This was the brand’s debut and they are all about high-end athletic wear — go from the golf course to the Ritz!

They hit a hole in one!

NIKKI LUND

Trendy, hip looks for not just the ladies, but a little menswear in the mix!

Show credits —

Hair — Keratin Complex
Makeup — Voodoo
Lawless Accessories
Step & Repeat & other floral art — FlowerBox Wall Gardens
SquareUp & zkipster — check in process
Ricky’s NYC
Little Miracles
CORE Water

Truly Inspired Womenswear at NYFW

Posted on September 28, 2015 by SMM

This next set of designers definitely had a clear vision for S/S 2016, very inspired and imaginative pieces. Enjoy!

NICHOLAS K & GBK/PILOT PEN GIFTING LOUNGE

I’m doing these posts together, because Pilot Pen actually helped in creating a look for Nicholas K this season. Incorporated into the look were Pilot Pens!

As for the rest of the Nicholas K collection, siblings Christopher and Nicholas Kunz channeled BASE jumpers for spring. “We call it ‘Terminal Velocity’ because it’s really high-energy, really adrenaline-packed,” Nicholas said of the lineup. The brand’s signature draped, hooded and layered silhouettes had even more fluidity this season when executed in parachute and ripstop nylon as well as silk, conveying a feeling of weightlessness.

Denim made a strong showing in black and periwinkle washes that had been given the dip-dye treatment, a recurrent theme throughout the looks, done mostly in a monochromatic palette of black, white and gray with a few pops of orange and red. Flight suits and outerwear in suede and leather looked effortlessly luxe over a series of highly covetable short-sleeved, button-down wrap blouses. Pounding the runway to thumping electronic music, the Nicholas K girl looked fierce — and apocalypse-ready.

I’ve been doing fashion week now for several seasons. I like seeing the progression and growth for a designer. That is what I see with Nicholas K and I was vastly impressed with this S/S 16 collection!

BABYGHOST

Qiaoran Huang and Joshua Hupper, the design duo behind Babyghost, presented a hauntingly romantic spring collection. They were inspired by a Halston documentary, a poem about death from the 1940s and classic American retail chains such as Gap and J. Crew.

So how did they weave together these disparate elements? For starters, the ode to Halston was immediately apparent in the fabrics, which included jersey burnout and touches of gold on dresses and skirts. The classic American retail chains translated to oversize tees, a cropped trench and chunky cardigans.

And the death poem? Lines from it were printed throughout the collection on everything from T-shirts to a maxiskirt. This was definitely a collection on the darker side, but there was an understated beauty about, something very alluring and intriguing.

A MOI

Spring 2016 marked Alejandra Alonso Rojas’ fourth À Moi collection. “I feel like I’ve [determined] the silhouettes and I’ve kind of rounded up who my woman is — girlish and whimsical but relaxed,” said the designer backstage at her presentation. The season’s looks ranged from crafty and artisanal — such as three-dimensional floral embroidered canvas skirts and jackets, a yellow jacquard peplum top and matching culottes and a bomber embellished in floral motifs with sheer sleeves — to more successful simplistic approaches where one could see the perfect balance between artistry and wearability.

Case in point: her black silk T-shirt with embellished sleeve detail and fluid wide-leg pants. The approach was best summed up by Rojas’ show notes: “The idea of applying the elevated sartorial traditions of the past to the necessary versatility of now is paramount when creating garments.”

This was such a delicate, very feminine, soft & easy collection. There was clever design, but also a minimalist undertone that I appreciated.

NYFW –Let’s Hear it for the Ladies!

Posted on September 25, 2015 by SMM

Photography by Shanise Gibson

Great, talented female designers, showcasing looks that are all about the celebration of women, her journeys, her confidence, and more!

Son Jung Wan

It was definitely hard to pick a few faves from Son Jung Wan’s SS 2016 presentation. As always, her work was super impressive and innovative. There is just such an ease with her pieces that make me as a woman both want to wear them and know I would be able to wear them well.

Her color palette this go-round was soft, while her silhouette and vibe stuck to true Son Jung Wan style, simplistic minimalism. Her work is so high quality and regal that the looks really speak for themselves as to how amazing each one is.

Show Credits —

Production — Freesmeier Projects

Stylist — Deborah Watson at Walter Schupfer Management

Director — Lynne O’Neill at Hula Inc

Casting — Chad Thompson at Communa-K

PR — Deborah Hughes Inc.

Backstage Photography — Kevin Tachman

Runway Photography — Radin Banica

Music Director — Laurent Vacher

Makeup — Miyaka Okamata for Shiseido

Hair — Jorge Luis and Laurent D for Prive Products

Lighting — Florian Schreiter

Nails — Shiseido

Dressers — Alyson Friedman at Quick Change Artistry

Set — Bernhard-Link Theatrical

Francesca Liberatore

Francesca Liberatore’s spring collection, entitled “The Heart is the Center,” explored the human heart and all of its facets. If that meant simply having heart-and-valve artwork indiscreetly printed and bedazzled on practically every look, then she succeeded. Her range of silk chiffon, tulle, lace and knit daywear, done in a palette of primarily orange and black, to me was quite captivating. It’s hard to pull of orange and black and not thing campy Halloween. I didn’t see spookiness here at all, but rather a golden sunrise, with looks stunning all the way to sunset!

Francesca is known for creating dynamic, bold looks for the modern day, strong, confident woman. Her looks are empowering and each season, I’m always eager to see her collection. This was another great one! It was all about heart and you can see Francesca’s heart in this collection, such passion and vivacity.

Isa Arfen

For S/S 2016, Isa Arfen Creative Director Serafina Sama travels on an imagined journey thru warmer climates creating an interchangeable capsule collection rooted in a desire for an adventure. The journey begins with a palette of elegant monochrome. Loosely worn boxy shirts in a silk cotton poplin hint at the effortlessness of the Isa Arfen woman, while asymmetrical ruffles in peachy cotton provide a feminine flourish.

Hues of true orange, sangria, bold pink, and persimmon were balanced with traditional black and whites. The collection was clearly a presentation of juxtaposition; silk chiffon capris and a-line lace dresses were met by suiting-inspired jackets and waistlines. These strong silhouettes were alternated throughout the show, proving Liberatore’s versatility.

The relaxed eastern influence is seen repeatedly in this collection, from the light loose kimono overcoats to the sharp tailoring. For evening, glamour is introduced thru flashes of ciciaomino, clashed with khaki, whilst tropical florals are screenprinted thru silk cattan adorned on evening coats.

Show Credits —

Styling — Valentine Fillol-Cordier

Production — Brett Windham

Communications — Holly Corrigan, Starworks Group

Shoes — Charlotte Olympia for Isa Arfen

Sunglasses — General Eyewear

Casting — Henry Thomas

Hair — Claudia Lazo at Wella

Makeup — Louise Zizzo at MAC

Nails — Jessica Tong for Smith & Cult

Photography — Sophia Aerts

Graphic Design — PLAKAT

#NYFW — Some of My Faves!

Posted on September 24, 2015 by SMM

Oh, you know, just a couple of my fave #NYFW designers……

Desigual

DESIGUAL’s Spring 2016 collection explored the modern day women who is free-spirited, bold and fun, celebrating the ever-changing face of women! Women, like the many cities we travel to and live in, are ever-changing and endlessly alluring; gleaming in the morning and glowing in the evening. Inspired by the city of Barcelona, BCN, La Ciudad Condal, the charming Mediterranean port town that’s always been home for DESIGUAL, this collection encapsulates the many styles of women.

The brand collaborated with stylist Misha Janette, who used her eclectic style to showcase the daring, fearless, and irreverent woman according to DESIGUAL. Lauro Samblas’, an artist from Barcelona, used colorful pop-inspired collages tapping into his boundless creative freedom to create the backdrop for the collection.

Cosmopolitan and cool, the collection featured layered looks, unusual combinations and left an urban, sophisticated and bold mark: Shirts worn as skirts, hand painted brush stroke prints on oversize blouses, jumpers worn as turbans, A-line midi-skirts with patchwork embroidery, jackets that combine denim, military fabric and embroidery, palazzo pants and ankle grazers, embellished jeans with delicate embroidery and long shirts worn as evening dresses.

Desigual is designed for many types of women with their lust for life, eye for beauty, and passion for self-expression. I am such a fan of not only the looks, but the show itself. Desigual is always a super fun, empowered show to witness firsthand. The energy in the room is undeniable. But the looks too are marvelous and I loved this collection! It’s Desigual thru & thru!

Guests included actresses Laverne Cox; supermodel Karolina Kurkova; 94 year old fashion icon Iris Apfel; fashion photographer and TV personality Nigel Barker and Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe with fiancé Shawn Booth.

PR — Deborah Hughes Inc.

Leanne Marshall

Black silk organza dress with silk mesh draping; Black silk twill dress with layered cutouts; Black silk organza dress

Navy gown with layered silk twill cutout bodice and printed chiffon skirt; Navy silk organza dress with frayed denim and printed chiffon details; Navy short sleeved silk organza dress with frayed denim and printed chiffon details

Sheer light blue silk organza dress with silk chiffon overlay details; Light blue silk chiffon and silk charmeuse spaghetti strap gown with belt detail; & Light blue to ivory ombre silk organza gown with paneled skirt

Ivory textured silk organza gown with silk organza and thread details; Ivory silk gazaar gown with hand painted organza embellishment and foliage belt; Ivory silk gazaar gown with slits and foliage

Kelly green silk twill gown with cutouts & textured silk organza detail & Two-piece gown with silk twill bodice tiered silk organza skirt with silk organza and floral embellishments

So just as Leanne did last season, she took her audience on a narrative fashion journey, this year, underlying themes being Mother Nature. The inspiration for her collection: ‘A dark disconnected world, plagued by excess is wiped out when another Nature takes back what is hers. There is a slow, gradual return to the ease and magic of being alive.” 4 different beauty looks to bring her concept to life.

Section 1, Darkworld

Section 2: Water/Air

Section 3: Earth

Section 4, Nature ReClaims

Such a gorgeous collection. There are not enough words to describe how much I adore these pieces and I am just in awe!

Show credits —

Makeup lead — Janell Geason, Aveda

Hair lead — Jon Reyman for Spoke & Weal

Ivory silk gazaar gown with seafoam bodice details and silk organza draping; Ivory silk gazaar draped bustier with seafoam silk organza skirt; Seafoam silk organza gown with green lace and thread detailing; & Kelly green silk organza gown with flutter sleeve and hand embroidered detail

Nail Design — Patricia Yankee

Shoes — Faryl Robin & Joe South

Royal silk organza gown with full skirt and pleated silk mesh and organza details; Royal silk organza dress with silk organza draping; Royal silk gown with deep V bodice; & Royal blue gown with silk charmeuse Deep V bodice and silk mesh skirt

Floral work — Sachi Rose

Gift Bag Sponsors — BRYK Brand, Castefy, Chapstick, Chloe Wine, Keshima Beauty, Pixie Mood, & Sinful Colors

Music — Dino Moran Dino Moran

Light blue silk organza gown with deep V an draped bodice with spaghetti strap; Multicolored ombre silk organza draped tank dress; Multicolored ombre silk organza dress with of shoulder sleeve detail; & Multicolored ombre silk organza short-sleeved dress with asymmetrical drape

Production — LDJ Productions

PR — Riviere Agency

Black silk organza dress with pleated silk organza detailing; black, white, gray silk organza dress; black short sleevve silk twill dress with black, gray, and white silk organza printed drapes; & black silk twill beaded crop tank with navy and black silk organza and satin faced silk organza skirt

Launch — Design Whisperer

The Designer Whisperer strives to create a platform where artists can receive the recognition they
deserve by bringing more awareness to the creative individuals who are building the future of fashion at no cost. The hope is to bridge the gap between mainstream luxury fashion and independent brands by providing insight into the industry with trade coverage, designer profiles and industry news.

Sponsors: Bruce Cost Ginger Ale, H2-Melon and The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen

Photography — Garvin of Revenge Fashion Magazine

NYFW — Modern, Bold RTW

Posted on September 23, 2015 by SMM

Eveningwear is always a must-see for the runway, but I too adore seeing some great, modern, trendy RTW looks!

Georgine

Purple & Green spandex dress

For Spring/Summer 2016, GEORGINE wanted to break traditional dressing protocols and defy the conventional approach of how people normally dress. For instance, leathers are treated in pastels in lieu of the mainstream rugged dark treatment, French laces are cut into sweatshirts and active wear, and spandex is celebrated in eveningwear. The results are subtle and surprising and inline with the Internet age where nothing is ever as it seems. All of this was mesmerizing for me, quite captivating with the color palette and mixed media work.

Embroidered dress with tan trench

Celebrity Guests: Laverne Cox, actress, “Grandma”, “Orange is the New Black”; Kristen Taekman, The Real Housewives of New York City; Tamaryn, singer “Cranekiss”; Stassi Schroeder, fashion blogger, star of “Vanderpump Rules”; Nigel Barker

Wanessa green lace dress

Show credits —

Hair: Ric Pipino for Melville Pipino Salon

Make-Up: Gordon Espinet with the MAC Pro Team

Shoes: Go Melissa

Music: Laurent Vacher

Fur: Jonevon Furs

Embroidered print blouse tip with keyhole tied collar

Jewelry: Patricia von Musulin

Sunglasses: Moscot

PR, Production, & Casting: Mao PR

Hair supplied by Janet Collections

Embroidered dress with blue half spandex sleeves

Jay Godfrey

(photo credits to Dan Lecca Photography)

Jay Godfrey’s Spring 2016 is inspired by the work of the late interior designer and architect David Collins. Godfrey’s collection specifically pays tribute to London-based Collins’ use of simplicity, architectural lines, and text to create sensual environments that are simultaneously Contemporary and established. A collection in all white is hard to pull off, hard to be that intriguing. But Jay has done that here with a great mix of looks, separates and dresses. It was clear he had a vision and executed it well.

While Godfrey, who also works in the interiors milieu, was working on designing a hotel project in Seoul, Korea, he often looked to Collins’ recently released coffee table book, ABCDCS that memorialized the late designer’s work in hotels, restaurants, bars, and private residences. Godfrey was struck by Collins’ use of different shades of white, ivory, alabaster and cream and has created a Spring 2016 show as homage to his work.

New York-based designer Jay Godfrey is the founder and creative director behind his eponymous collection of sleek, sexy and sophisticated designs. Perpetually inspired by the chic New York woman, Godfrey’s goal as a designer is to meld the classic tailoring techniques of Savile Row with modern silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. The result is his distinctive contemporary collection of dresses and separates that accentuate the female figure. Godfrey describes himself as a minimalist who embraces color in an unmistakably sensual way.

House of Perna

Amanda Perna of House of Perna, pictured above, was on this current season of Project Runway. I was a fan!! I saw her work before the show and loved it. I am now seeing her work after the show and I’m still a huge supporter!!

This collection speaks to femininity and is quite impressive. I was amazed at the clever prints and choices of silhouettes. There are great pops of color and vibrant prints, which make the pieces really stand out.

Vivienne Tam

The collection was inspired by the increasingly androgynous nature of fashion in the 20’s and today’s “street” culture. It reflects a contemporary contextualization of art deco design elements, characterized by linear forms, dropped waists, stripes, and angularities translated into relaxed shapes that are reminiscent of the teen surfer/skater culture of the 70’s and nods to modern comfort and ease.

The collection finds expression in relaxed silhouettes, ribbed knits, crisp cottons, synthesized crepes and techno-mesh layered with hand-crafted embroideries and laser-cut appliqués, combining masculine shapes with feminine embellishments. Graphic black and white, red, sea green, and accents of fluorescent pink and mint green add a modern twist. This was a great collection to witness in person. There was a lot of energy in the room and it was people feeding off of the modern vibe these great pieces were giving off. Another great collection by Tam, congrats!

NOTABLES GUESTS: Ally Brooke (Musician, Fifth Harmony), Sonia Nassery Cole (Oscar nominated The Black Tulip) Elle Dee (DJ/Model), Thatiana Diaz (Miss New York 2014), Pierson Fode (Actor), Olivia Jordan (Miss USA 2015), Niki Koss (Actress, Girl on the Edge), Ai Li (Actress, The Tenth Floor), Floriana Lima (Actress, The Mob Doctor), Natalie Alyn Lind (Actress, Gotham, The Goldbergs), Vanessa Marano (Actress, Switched at Birth), Mozhan Marno (Actress, House of Cards, The Blacklist), Mercedes Mason (Actress, Fear the Walking Dead), Ryan Newman (Actress), Teyonah Parris (Actress, Survivor’s Remorse, Mad Men), Shu Pei Qin (Supermodel), Vanessa Ray (Actress, Pretty Little Liars, Blue Bloods), Angela Simmons (TV Personality), Serinda Swan (Actress, Graceland), Hairong Tian (Actress, Silent Tears), Paulina Vega (Miss Universe 2014), Carlson Young (Actress, Scream (MTV)), Tashiana Washington (Actress/Singer, Gimme Shelter). Also in attendance: Kelly Bensimon (TV personality), Kimberly Guilfoyle (Fox News, Co-host The Five), Di Mondo, Andrea Tantaros (Fox News, Outnumbered), and more.

NYFW — All the Shimmer & Shine!

Posted on September 22, 2015 by SMM

Fashion Week is definitely at times about the glitz and the glam. You will see a great deal of RTW, but the shows with that WOW factor, the extra shimmer & shine, are definitely worth being in attendance at!

Rootstein Launch of the Phillipe Blond Mannequin

Rootstein, the iconic mannequin company who has been the leader in groundbreaking mannequin manufacturing and changed the standards of the retail display industry for almost 60 years, is proud to announce the release of a visionary new collection of male and female mannequins based on the visage of internationally famous fashion designer Phillipe Blond. This was a super exhilarating presentation. I was totally mesmerized!

Rootstein representatives elaborate, “In partnering with The Blonds, Rootstein continues its legacy of embracing individuality that captures, reflects and communicates the brilliant transience of fashion at its most beautiful and thrilling.” Throughout the decades, Rootstein has sought out celebrities who have embodied the spirit of their times and sculpted mannequins based on Twiggy, Pat Cleveland, Joan Collins, Susanne Barstch, Erin O¹Connor and Jade Parfit to name a few.

The event featured an exhibition of the mannequins wearing an archive of The Blonds most memorable runway pieces. Phillipe is beaming with excitement and adds, “The whole process is surreal and magical, like a dream. It is such an honor to join the ranks of so many inspiring icons that have been sculpted for mannequins by Rootstein.”

Pamella Roland

Dream come true, that is what I would call attending this show. I was honored to receive an invite. In awe, that is what I felt after seeing these stunning looks grace the runway. This collection was inspired by what was dubbed in the 50s as Post-painterly abstraction by Frank Stella, but not just the visually striking paintings, it was the cultural context in which they were created.

There was a ton of unorthodox materials used here, plexiglass, PVC Nebula lace, reflective taffeta, and LED fibers, all as a nod to the wave of futurism prevalent in Stella’s early works. The unusual elements are paired with a foundation of gorgeous couture fabrics in streamlined silhouettes, creating a contemporary balance.

Show credits —

Stylist — Danielle Nachmani
Makeup — Rick DiCecca of Artistry by Amway
Hair — Ted Gibson
Nails — Patricia Yankee
Jewelry — Chopard
Production Design — The Gathery
Lighting — Prospect Lighting
Music — Javier Peral
Casting — Edward Kim of The Edit Desk
Front of House — LaForce & Stevens
Location — The Whitney Museum of Art
Photography — Nigel Barker
Production — B Productions

Once again, this was just such an amazing show to be in attendance at. The magnificence of these various formal and evening wear looks were beyond my expectations. I could see so many as future red carpet contenders and I’m sure we will see a few in the coming latter 2015 award season, as well as the award season for 2016.

Zimmermann

Titled “Master and Mischief,” the show mixed the conservative — high, ruffled necklines, corset-like bodices and Victorian bib collars — with the disobedient, in the form of impossibly short, flouncy hemlines. Nicky Zimmermann derived inspiration from Ethel Turner’s 1894 novel “Seven Little Australians” about a group of mischievous siblings.

The lineup was very youthful, with lace-up backs and sheer embroidery, showing plenty of skin. It was a strong vision executed boldly. I thought this collection had a modern vibe, but still with a vintage appeal. I had a lot of faves that came down the runway!

NYFW — All Kinds, All Means

Posted on September 21, 2015 by SMM

Commentary also by Guest Blogger Kendra Saunders

The great thing about #NYFW is not just seeing so much, but it’s seeing so much thru a variety of a means. In my 1st Fashion Week recap, I’m showcasing a film premiere party, presentations, afterparties, and showroom visits. During New York Fashion Week, you really do it all! This season was an impressive one for Fashion Nexus and Bellus Magazine, for which I am the NYC Editor. I was invited to 80 shows — the highest # ever. There was no way I would be able to attend all of these events, runways, and presentations. But thanks to a great effort from some amazing individuals who joined my team as guest bloggers and writers, Fashion Nexus & Bellus Magazine attended 68 of these 80 events. WOW!

So in addition to my coverage for this 1st NYFW recap, Kendra Saunders is on board with some commentary and imagery! First up, the NYC premiere of the fashion documentary “Inside Amato”.

Inside Amato by Furne One

This fashion documentary, directed by Rocco Lee Gaglioti, takes its audience on a fashionable journey with Furne One, going from concept to a collection as presented on a dramatic runway. This film presents the pressures and struggles presenting a high fashion runway collection. It is a very accurate portrayal of the face of the fashion. Rocco Leo Gaglioti brings the admiration of Furne One, while uncovering intimate moments and creative genius.

photo with Director Rocco Lee Gaglioti

Furne One launched in 2002 and was immediately a hit with the elite. This fashion has been seen on the red carpet from the Golden Globes, Oscars, and more. His fashion has dressed Beyonce, Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, Shakira, Nicole Scherzinger, and Amber Rose to name a few.

The documentary was very insightful and it was a true joy for anyone with a passion for fashion. The event was a smashing success, a huge crowd at The Liberty Theater in Times Square. I was very thankful to grab a few minutes with the director, Rocco Lee Gaglioti, on the red carpet. For such a momentous occasion he was truly excited for this opportunity and was near speechless, truly overjoyed!

O2nd Showroom

O2nd showroom takes its clientele on a journey of contradiction, an engagement of a dreamer and a pragmatist. All elements of design are created and driven by a mood, an experience, a purpose. It’s a collage of purposeful clothing with a talent to re-invent classics thru a modern lens.

For Spring 2016, the collection infuses light, pastel color palettes into silhouettes defined by creative lines and simplicity.

Kendra, was on board reporting here!

“Despite the miserable heat in Manhattan on Tuesday, things inside the O2 Showroom were super cool (and not just because they had AC!) The clothes being presented to us are the epitome of minimalist, laid-back style. The pieces felt timeless and ageless as well, incorporating a few little details (like a standout piece with a Peter pan collar) that added just a tad bit of retro flair. All in all, it was a really fun, upbeat little event, and I loved the set up of the room!”

Brand Assembly

It was a pleasure stopping by the new showroom for BA. Brand Assembly’s core business is to nurture and elevate emerging design talent by providing the infrastructure and guidance needed to launch and grow successful brands.

Brands currently showing — Beckley, Elle Sasson, Harare, Karie Laks, Laveer, Mestiza, Phyllis + Rosie, Sass & Bide, ThePerfext, Vive La Femme, Cosette, Flannel, Helena Quinn, Kempner, Libsa, Mill + Row, Roi, Strom, Vincetta, Custommade, Frank & Eileen, Karen Zambos, Korovilas, Mart, MKT, Sarah Curtis, Tarryn Simone, Virginia Wolf, and Woodrow.

Sound Affects & Malan Breton

Malan’s NYFW wrap party, a gathering to benefit a cancer organization, was a huge success!! The event was held at the Hudson Hotel. Sound Affects was the charitable organization being benefited on this evening and to do so, Malan auctioned off 2 dresses, one being a recent finale gown from his recent NYFW showing, to support the cause. More than $10,000.00 in donations were received.

The event was a total blast and a smashing success as you can see from the few images above and below!

Plain Tee Blue Jean

Designer Teneice B.

Kendra attended this designer presentation. In interviewing Teneice, the designer said she was inspired to share her message thru graphic tees. She is all about the empowerment of young girls.

Plain Tee Blue Jean is the tangible extension of a complete lifestyle brand. The brand is not only the designer’s go-to fashion choices but the phrases you see are her version of highlightable book passages that she never got to write.

These two tees above are faves of the designers’ from this recent collection!

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

Must Have Fashion Week Accessories

Posted on March 27, 2015 by SMM

NYFW has come and gone. It was such a great time, so many amazingly talented designers presented. From RTW to stunning gowns, I saw it all! Some time yes has passed, but after some reflection and time, being able to peruse thru all of the various shows, I did want to put out this fun piece! I always enjoy seeing the many chic and fashionable accessories which complimented the various looks that graced the runways – handbags, jewelry, shoes, and more!

Upon my complete and full inspection, I’ve compiled my list of my “Must Have Fashion Week Accessories”! Enjoy!!

ANNA SUI

Anna Sui had it all, killer boots, fun outerwear hats, trendy jewelry, fun tights, and more — now these are ACCESSORIES!

DESIGUAL

Desigual is always a super fun show, high energy with graphic, bold looks. And the accessories aren’t too shabby either – fun headpieces, statement-making jewelry, and handbags galore!

BADGLEY MISCHKA

Badgley Mischka coordinated well with a floral inspiration, making use of some amazing floral accessories – tights and hair accessories, as well as some stunning clutches.

CUSTO BARCELONA

Custo Barcelona made use of some edgy accessories, super cool & hip – tote handbags, boots, and eyewear!

LEANNE MARSHALL

The F/W collection for Leanne Marshall brought to life a tragic love story. The looks were breathtaking, accessorized very well. The hair pins, the shoes, the jewelry, made this show all the more intriguing.

LIBERTINE

The Libertine show is always a ball. The pieces, the accessories, are just so full of life, meaning the runway show is spirited & energetic.

MALAN BRETON

So in love with every jewelry piece in Malan Breton’s show, women & menswear alike!

REBECCA MINKOFF

Rebecca Minkoff is of course known for making great accessories alongside her apparel pieces. She further demonstrated this point by styling her F/W presentation quite well.

J. Crew

J.Crew had it all – clutches, heels, jewelry, eyewear. So yes, had it all and everything was amazing!

HERVE LEGER BY MAX AZRIA

Herve Leger was bringin’ out a super sexy side for this runway. The gladiator heels wee phenomenal. But so too are the fabulous clutches and handbags!

DIESEL BLACK GOLD

Very practical, yet fashionably chic handbags for the Diesel Black Gold runway presentation!

Fashion Nexus

A fashion blog for anything & everything fashion, including fashion law topics

Category Archives: Fashion Week

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NYFW: Men — Inspirations Come to Life

Modern, Trendy Menswear for S/S 2016

Must Have Fashion Week Accessories

A fashion blog for anything & everything fashion, including fashion law topics

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