NYFW — Classic Faves

Posted on February 17, 2016 by SMM

Every season there is a designated list of runway shows and/or presentations that I know I will attend. And here are just a few of my faves — Jay Godfrey, Nicholas K, and Mathieu Mirano. But first up, DESIGUAL!!

DESIGUAL

DESIGUAL Fall 2016 Pays Homage to the Ever-Evolving and Inspiring Urban Metropolis

DESIGUAL’s Fall 2016 collection reflected on the international metropolises where personal expression can be created and demonstrated through many diverse styles. Throughout history, cities have been a meeting place for people of different cultures to come to share and experience their own stories.

And just as I always expect, Desigual put on a show — true to fashion, to its inspiration. I’m always mesmerized at how put together each look is. No detail is left unnoticed. Desigual is a master at prints and color and continued to showcase those attributes.

The brand looks to the vibrancy of city life and all of its creative lifeblood for its Autumn/Winter 2016 collection. The collection’s aesthetic is a metaphor for the 21st century, visualized as a textured collage, where technology, trends and a global culture now are one. The essence of DESIGUAL imparts that every day is an opportunity to express yourself and wear your attitude to face the world.

Fashion has become an ambassador, the visual clue to our collective conscious. And with this season’s collection DESIGUAL celebrates the women whose style makes the city streets so vibrant.

JAY GODFREY

I look at this collection as a whole and immediately think — IT HAS IT ALL. You have the perfect colors for fall, burgundy, forest green, royal blue, and nude. You have varied silhouettes. You have RTW to evening. Godfrey always conveys impeccable taste and a stunning quality with his work. This collection is no different!

Styling & Casting by Lisa Nguyen, Hair by Jorge Luis / PRIVE, Makeup by Michelle Webb with AOFM Pro Team, Nails by Pattie Yankee, Music by Michael T, Set Design by Reclaim Design NYC, Production & PR by EB Consults. PHOTOS BY NEIL FRANCIS DAWSON

MATHIEU MIRANO

Mathieu Mirano’s poetic description of his inspiration was instantly visible in his shimmering, sensual evening collection for fall, shown on models sitting and standing on sand among, for a bit of humor, live tortoises. The designer’s travels to Egypt — specifically, the rainbow-hued sunsets and swirling desert winds — influenced his sculptural shapes as well as his palette: ombré stretch lame and an abundance of car wash-esque strips cut as skirts and even floor-skimming sleeves.

“I want my clothes to have a recognizable language,” said Mirano, whose signature elements include embroidered fringes and panels, mermaid silhouettes, liquid silks and stretch lame. What I enjoyed most about Mirano’s collection was its elevation. From previous seasons, I could tell that design, materials, just everything overall was on a whole new level for the designer.

Pretty much every piece had a regal, luxe quality to it. I really enjoyed the use of color!

NICHOLAS K — “ARCOSANTI”

“ARCOLOGY RECOGNIZES THE NECESSITY FOR RADICAL REORGANIZATION OF SPRAWLING URBAN LANDSCAPE INTO DENSE, INTEGRATED, THREE-DIMENSIONAL CITIES IN ORDER TO SUPPORT THE COMPLEX ACTIVITIES THAT SUSTAIN HUMAN CULTURE.” – PAOLO SOLERI / ARCHITECT /VISIONARY FOUNDER ARCOSANTI

These quotes, these inspirations, daily guide and navigate the thought process behind Nicholas K and the ongoing traveler.

“ARCOSANTI’S MESSAGE IS THAT “LIFE IS IN THE THICK OF THINGS”. WE ARE NOT FUTURISTS. WE ARE NOT TRYING TO PREDICT THE FUTURE WITH THIS PROJECT; WE ARE TRYING TO DESIGN IT OUT OF WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE PRESENT. LET ME JUST CONFIDE WHAT WE DO KNOW: THE CURRENT GLOBAL TSUNAMI OF CONSUMPTION – OF OBJECTS, MATERIALS, ENERGY AND LAND – IS LEADING TO DISASTER, BOTH ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL. FOR THE WHOLE WORLD’S POPULATION – 7 BILLION PEOPLE – TO LIVE THE WAY 314 MILLION AMERICANS LIVE NOW, WOULD TAKE 5 EARTHS TO SUPPORT. THIS IS NO JOKE.” – JEFF STEIN / PRESIDENT COSANTI FOUNDATION

HAIR — Giannandrea Marongiu for Macadamia Professional; WOODEN HAIR STICKS — Rick McCoy; MAKEUP — Sarah Lucero for Stila Cosmetics; NAILS — Elle Gerstein for Dermelect; PR — Agentry PR

how to pack female hair in 2016

And So It Begins….NYFW

Posted on February 16, 2016 by SMM

RUBIN SINGER

Rubin Singer’s fall / winter 2016 collection began with an exploration of his intentions as a designer. Staying true to his core image of architectural femininity, Singer delves into new categories, new shapes, and new fabrics for the new season. Unique in his approach to designing, Singer starts with an inspiration, such as the mathematical formulation “Homomorphism” (that any given formula ends up in the same place no matter how many times you change it), which is the hallmark for the fall / winter 2016 season, and then moves to fabrics – textures & colors – and from there the shape and pattern of his creations are revealed.

I have a hard time peeling my eyes away from these stunningly superb looks. There is variety, whether from the silhouette to the fabric. Many of these looks are very much red carpet worthy and I hope to see some of these again soon.

PR — Agentry PR; HAIR — Jon Reyman for Aveda; MAKEUP — Janell Geason for Aveda; CASTING — Julius Poole; JEWELRY — Jacob & Co.

JILL HABER

A breath of fresh air from the sea of apparel was being able to the Jill Haber presentation — handbags & clutches galore!

SACHIN & BABI

It’s not easy separating oneself from the pack in the contemporary market, but Babi and Sachin Ahluwalia, creators of the label Sachin & Babi Noir, have been able to hit full stride with their strong focus on evening and special occasion dresses and separates. For fall, the duo presented a charming lineup with plenty of Spanish flare — all done in a romantic yet modern way.

After a recent visit to the Getty house in Los Angeles, Sachin Ahluwalia was so inspired by the colors and textures in the archives that he wanted to reinterpret it all for the label’s young customer. These looks are insta-faves for not only myself, but any other young, modern fashionista.

These looks were just so imaginative. I loved the use of color, as well as the many floral prints. There was such a regal, luxe quality about these looks and I feel as if I want to own every single piece.

CLAUDIA LI

FOR FALL/WINTER 2016, CLAUDIA WANTED TO EXPRESS SELF-PRESERVATION: THE IDEA OF PRESERVING ONESELF AFTER AN EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL DESTRUCTION. THE COLLECTION EMBRACES THE PERIOD RIGHT AFTER. THE PROCESS OF RECOVERING AND THE PAST SEEMINGLY BECOMING AN ILLUSION IS SHOWN THROUGH WRAPPED SILHOUETTES, ORIGAMI KNOTS, PANELS AND LAYERS OF FABRICS.

NOVELTY YARNS, CASHMERE WOOLS AND LAYERED SHEER FABRICS ENHANCE THE COLLECTION. DENIM CONTINUES TO PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN KNOTTING DETAILS, YARN SLEEVED JACKETS AND BANDEAU TOPS.

CASTING — Andrew Weir, PRODUCTION — Shades of Grey; MAKEUP — Miyako Okamoto for Shiseido; HAIR — Linh Nguyen for Cutler/Redken; NAILS — Lisa Logan for Red Carpet Manicure; VIDEO — Andrew Swartz; MUSIC — Javier Peral; PHOTOGRAPHY — Monica Feudi; SPECIAL THANKS TO — Launch Collective, Commando, Artbeam

VIVI ACADEMY — VIVI MOYER

This is a great collection, very amazing presentation. The attention to detail, namely the beauty look, was spot on!

Digital Couture Project — Epson Presentation

Posted on February 15, 2016 by SMM

A pure treat for me last NYFW season was attending the Epson Digital Couture Presentation, and so of course this season, I was looking forward to seeing even more stunning, unique, highly creative vibrant prints!

LENERD BY FELIPPE — Colombia

Great use of color here, so rich and it stands out!!

OSSIRA BY AGOSTINE ORLANDI & LUDMILA OSIKOVSKY — from Argentina

There is such a relaxed, stylish vibe here and I love the color palette.

CRISTINA RUALES — Brooklyn, NY

The prints here are gorgeous. I love this slate dress. It was a fave of mine from this presentation.

TIGRESSE — from Brasil

Tigresse knows how to work with colors and prints, and does it well!

SANTIKA BY DANNY SANTIAGO — from Miami, FL

This is some stunning RTW — got such a jet-setting, vacay vibe.

CHLOE TRUJILLO — from Los Angeles

This printed purple dress on the right is definitely a work of art, but very much a fashionable work of art.

MATIAS HERNAN — from Chile

Those boots!!! Werk!!

FABRIZZIO — from Costa Rica

Menswear fashion week was last week, so it was great to see a few designs for the gents here.

KALEIDOSCOPIC — from Mexico

It’s definitely cold here in NYC, not swimsuit season, but there is no harm in thinking ahead, right!!

PIONEER — from Peru

Love seeing RTW, but also some great light-weight outerwear.

GUSTAVO BY GM

Even more great menswear — love it!!

Upscale NYC Hair Stylist Helps City’s Homeless In Unique Way

Final Recap from NYFW:Men

Posted on February 14, 2016 by SMM

SUIT SUPPLY

Suit Supply was one of my most fave presentations for NYFW:Men. It was a great showcase of the F/W 2016 collection, lots of great suit options for the modern man. It would take him from straight off the rack to a well-dressed, modernly fashionable man.

CONCEPT KOREA — DBYD (by Dong-jun Kang)

Concept Korea is a global project that publicizes Korea’s fashion culture throughout the world and supports domestic designer brands make in-roads into overseas markets. This year’s 2 showcases were presented by Korea Creative Content Agency & the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, & Tourism.

This F/W16 collection — I’m Yours and I’m not yours. The concept behind the collection was from the film “Her” by Spike Jonze. Whenever the main actor’s emotion changed, the color of the cinematography would change as well, depending on the mood. The two key words of this film contrast with the colors are “owning” and “being”. It makes one think psychologically, owning the assurance of being, or being as its complete measure of his existence.

The color palette is sand beige, melange gray, cool gray, burgundy, red, black, and white.

CONCEPT KOREA — ORDINARY PEOPLE (by Hyeong-cheol Jang)

Entitled “Hotel People”, there are always rest points/commas in musics and writings, and with this brand, they also believe that we need rest points in our lives to make it more valuable and bounce back to reality, which one usually calls it a holiday. In the background of a perfect holiday, one spots that there are people who are off for a holiday and people who chase for a holiday.

Ordinary People brings the story of a hotel where people stay for holiday. With the theme of Ordinary People’s hotel, we not only go thru the bright sides, the shoppers, and the limousines, but also every little element that makes people’s holiday perfect. With this collection, Ordinary People are proud to show every moment happening in the hotel with their own Ordinary style.

Sponsors of the overall Concept Korea show are Soko Glam! and AVEDA.

GENERAL IDEA

Designer Bumsuk Choi presented a lineup that managed to remain playful while still maintaining the minimal tone that is a hallmark of the brand. The collection included modern elements such as oversize coats with exaggerated patch pockets in monochromatic tones, color-blocking on outerwear in bomber and leather moto jacket styles and various zipper treatments on sleeves.

The outerwear pieces here were truly phenomenal, so mind-blowing!

More From NYFW:Men

Posted on February 12, 2016 by SMM

RICARDO SECO

Ricardo Seco’s collection focused on contemporary Mexico, highlighting the country’s bold and unique culture. For his 9th collection, he featured 22 pieces at the presentation. I felt the inspiration with this collection, but I also felt joy and just a refreshing spirit. There were some staples in black, which is always great, but the pops of color were also great to see!

Ricardo stated, “We live in a timeless world filled with color. We know who we are, we are our past, and we are our present. We create our future based on traditions and heritage, which makes our time here beautiful. Now is the time to enjoy sarape and other street styles of the world.”

Venue Sponsor — Dockers; Front of House — Paula Rosado PR; Hair — John Ruidant for Axe; Skincare — Shahzada at See Management; Lighting Designer — Jan Kroeze; Set Production — Kadan

KENNETH NING

Photography by Shanise Gibson

Kenneth Ning pulled from a varied set of influences for spring. Moroccan spices informed the bright palette, sand storm references came through in cotton face masks, and floral tapestries were used to disrupt pinstripe suits.

The prints in this collection really caught my attention; they were visionary and unique. I thought the designs were really fashion forward.

FEIT — AUDIOVISUAL INSTALLATION — MAN VS MACHINE

FEIT’s first ever film commission contrasts the iconic mass production imagery of the 1982 cult film Koyaanisqutsi (Life out of Balance), with the unique artistry that defines FEIT’s commitment to handmade. The number of shoes created globally is very much on the rise. With footwear being such a booming industry, FEIT believes that creating high-quality, handmade shoes from natural materials will reduce production of harmful pollutants and our dependence on petroleum and landfills.

The installation was and will continue to be at The New Museum.

Director — Jack Riccobono; Composer/Producer — Nicholas Britell; Producer — Benjamin Millepied; Editor — Jiye Kim; Stock Footage — Macgillivray Freeman Films; Installation Technical Director — Michael Brown Designs; Installation & Lighting Design — Jordana Maisie; Installation Fabrication — Arc Fabrication; Installation Video Tech — Aion Entertainment; Live Artist — Rock

DEXTERDEXTERDEXTER

Photography by Shanise Gibson

Following his debut private client presentation last summer, Dexter Cheston showed his
DEXTERDEXTERDEXTER FW16 men’s collection for the first time during NYFWM. The F/W 16 collection is defined by the theme of “simply integrity” and “being able to see past the
immediate,” says Cheston.

Cheston was inspired by the Coco Chanel quote “a trendy dress is easy, yet a black dress is difficult.” It is clear to see how this idea shows up in Cheston’s work, which is full of modern takes on classics. Cheston built upon his classic cuts from last season, reinvented for inspired eye wear, and outerwear. He continues to showcase quality craftsmanship with the line, which he proudly states, “is all handcrafted in New York.”

NYFW:Men — A Few of My Faves!!

Posted on February 10, 2016 by SMM

NICK GRAHAM

You can’t deny that this was a true show! No detail was left unnoticed and with a theme in mind, Graham went for it! I loved the suits, but I must also give props to Nick for doing a great job with model casting for this presentation. Good looking guys in some even better looking suits, I feel as if Nick knew what he was doing here!

Nick Graham transformed the show space into his interpretation of a national park, complete with several fully uniformed rangers milling around. The National Park Service is celebrating its centennial this year. Models were perched on platforms surrounded by live pine trees wearing outfits that were each named for a different national park.

CARLOS CAMPOS

Sin Agua no Hay Cafe — From Fields to Fashion

The Carlos Campos Fall 2016 Collection is inspired by the quiet elegance of “El Capataz” (The Foreman), the native son of the coffee-growing highlands who returns home from the city every October as an overseer to take the crop to the urban marketplace. A man born in these lands, he inspires camaraderie and respect with the workers in the fields, but keeps to himself.

In line with Campos’ inspiration, the collection is presented in a controlled palette of classic camels reminiscent of the color of lightly roasted coffee beans, alongside Campos’ signature navy, with accents of winter white and burgundy. Texture plays a significant role in the plush but lightweight zibeline brushed wools and cotton velveteens, which convey the practicality of natural fibers while maintaining a luxurious, sophisticated feel.

With a nod to the importance that ecology plays in coffee production and the fluidity of Campos’ design aesthetic, a sweatshirt playfully proclaims “Sin Agua No Hay Café,” which translates as “Without Water There Is No Coffee.” Carlos never disappoints in delivering a well-made, high quality, truly inspired collection!

OVADIA & SONS

Ariel and Shimon Ovadia, the twin brothers behind Ovadia & Sons, spent two days in Israel’s One Hundred Gates neighborhood studying what Hasidic Jews wear. “It looks simple, but it’s very calculated,” said Shimon. The brothers brought that same level of meticulousness to their fall collection, which merged streetwear tropes with the Hasidic uniform.

They presented the collection to a room full of retailers including Kevin Harter and David Fisher from Bloomingdale’s; Ken Downing from Neiman Marcus; Tom Kalenderian of Barneys New York, and Eric Jennings from Saks Fifth Avenue. The brothers have previously said they want to dress America in a way that’s “not too safe, but not too fashiony.”

Front of House — Maguire Steele; Grooming — LAB Series for Men; Music — Mike Nouveau; Special thanks to — The Juice Shop, Fiji Water, & CFDA

PERRY ELLIS

Michael Maccari continued to put his own modern twist on the venerable Perry Ellis brand. His fall show offered “a new definition of sportswear” with updated proportions and silhouettes.

There are great, refreshing pops of color throughout this entire collection. That and the prints really caught my eye here and for my first time attending Perry Ellis, I was vastly impressed!

NYMD — Part 2

Posted on February 9, 2016 by SMM

Here is my follow-up pieces for the remainder of the presentations for NYMD, hosted by Cadillac!

ROBERT JAMES

MAKEUP — Mario Badescu; HAIR — Oribe; PR — Agentry; HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY — Ben Kuto, Keith Carlson Video; SHOES — Johnston & Murphy; MODELS — One 1 Management, Tom Winslow Bella Agency; MUSIC — Love & Rockets, Matt Pickles Caveman DJ; HATS — Stetson; GLOVES — Icon

Robert James has done quite well here with this collection. The suits are very modern and well-made. I appreciate the minimalist quality of the collection, but there are some fresh pops of flare here and there, showing great attention to detail.

HVRMINN

Hvrminn designer Minn Hur’s appreciation for World War II was prevalent throughout his fall collection. The lineup, which emphasized soft traditional tailoring, offered pieces inspired by the era’s military garb and interpreted in sartorial clothing.

“My specialty is about finding the perfect balance between tailored clothes and military uniforms,” Hur said. I appreciate the clear vision and inspiration found in this collection. I see growth from it in some more literal elements to translated facets.

CWST

Orcas Island — 70 miles NW of Seattle lies the San Juan Islands, a secluded archipelago, barley tucked into the Puget Sound pocket. It’s a cellular dead zone. The type of slow paced offshore counter culture the CWST wanderer prefers. Inspired by grey washed rain shadows, cordovan tide lines, sandstone outcroppings and weathered Douglas fir, CWST veils the sun for A/W 2016.

CASTING — Drew Linehan for Trew Productions; MAKEUP — Suzana Hallili using Perfekt Beauty and Mario Badescu skin care; HAIR — Dan T. Nguyen at Oribe; MUSIC — The Eyes; JEWELRY — Fay Andrada; ADDITIONAL SPONSORS — American Woolen Co, Johnston & Murphy; SPECIAL THANKS TO — Agentry PR, Alon Entertainment

LUCIO CASTRO

The Stonehenge Collection — THIS COLLECTION IS INPIRED BY PHOTOGRAPHS FROM TRAVELLING COMMUNITIES IN THE UK FROM THE LATE 80’S TO THE EARLY 90’S, WHO HAD SPIRITUAL AND MUSICAL GATHERINGS AT STONEHENGE.

These communities lived and moved around in old buses that they had transformed into their homes and their creative spaces. From this starting point, Lucio created clashing patterns, oversized silhouettes, and a sense of lazy-comfort, always picturing the wearer at a midnight concert in Stonehenge.

STYLING — Benjamin Sturgill; PR — Agentry PR; CASTING — Trew Productions; SET PRODUCTION — Cooper Vasquez; MUSIC — Stephen Kisko

CHAPTER

Entitled Admission, Chapter’s F/W 2016 collectioni is inspired by Los Angeles and its inclusive nature, reveling in confidence, intention and the experience of finding yourself on a path lined with distractions that can be all consuming. The city has many nocturnal faces, each unearthing a subculture sought after by the individuals who seek to not only fulfill their personal ambitions, but to encounter new experiences along the way.

This collection brings those elements of transformation and distraction to life with a new approach to familiar Chapter silhouettes. In a nod to the styling of the city’s mid to late 90s swing revival, The brand’s signature color palette is highlighted by a rich dark emerald green, clay, and mud.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER — Frank Delegadillo; CREATIVE DIRECTOR/DESIGNER — Devin Carlson; SHOW PRODUCER — Julie Shumaker; IN-HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY — Shawn Punch; ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY — Jayson Payne; PR — Raluca State; SET BUILD — Cush Design Studio; STYLING — Richie Davis/Chloe & Chenelle Delgadillo; CASTING — StyledbyPhil; MAKEUP — Suzana Hallili using Perfekt & Mario Badescu; HAIR — Oribe; MUSIC PROGRAMMING — Bladerunner Trio; LIVE PERFORMANCE — Brooklyn Circle; MODELS — Ford, Americana, Re:Quest, DNA, MSA, Fusion, Major, Red, D1, Q; SPECIAL THANKS TO — Townes, Agentry, PBLC TRDE NY, Dr. Martens

MATIERE

For Autumn/Winter 2016, Matiere explores a sense of modern migration, updating the traditional traveler with the functionalities to explore today’s world. Mixed fabrications reflect the blend of cultural inspirations, from the edgelands of England to the cityscapes of New York. This duality between the natural and the urban is expressed through the use of materials on modern silhouettes.

Many of the fabrics and textures conjure natural landscapes, while design details provide the ease to navigate them. Subtle tech elements include sealed zippers, protective funnel necks, covered plackets and adjustable cuff straps. The brand’s beloved apron front pant returns with seasonal updates, in addition to a selection of updated jogger pants and modern trousers. Outerwear remains a focus with collarless bombers, modern Harrington jackets and contemporary topcoats. Knitwear is also a stand-out category with cashmere cowl neck sweaters as well as light Japanese double knit and linen-cotton blend tops.

CASTING — communa-K; MAKEUP — Perfekt; HAIR — Oribe; PR — Agentry; HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY — Driely S.; FOOTWEAR — Dr. Martens; BAGS — Graf & Lantz; ACCESSORIES — Lucky Selectism

NYMD — Part 1

Posted on February 9, 2016 by SMM

No better way to kick off NYFW:Men then New York Menswear Day, presented by Cadillac at Industria Studios. Here are the first set of designers!

DAVID HART

The AW’16 collection is inspired by Blue Note Jazz and the effortlessly cool musicians like Jimmy Smith, Art Blakey, and Max Roach. Photographs by Francis Wolff and graphic design by Reid Miles were the inspiration for the color palette and textiles this season.

David Hart always puts out a superb showing and this collection is right in line with what I’ve come to know and love about the brand. The pieces are high quality and really perfection for the modern, trendy man. His plaid pieces this season really caught my eye!

STYLING, CASTING, PRODUCTION — Consortium; HAIR — Kien Hoang for Oribe; MAKEUP — Suzana Hallili using Perfekt Beauty & Mario Badescu skin care; PR — Agentry PR; SHOES — Johnston & Murphy; MODELS — Red, Wilhelmina, DNA, NYM; MUSIC — Xavier Aimes; GLASSES — Moscot; ADDITIONAL SPONSORS — William Grant & Sons, Glenfiddich, Aqua Brands, American Woolen Company

GARCIAVELEZ

This season aims to shift away from New York’s fast-paced environment to seek renewal and reflection in the healing environs of thermal baths tucked away deep in the Alps. With that, we get pieces that are wearable, comfortable and the perfect blend of luxury meets function.

The outerwear pieces for Garciavelez’s collection are eye-catching, I love the loose fits, with mixed media and multi-toned color palettes.

MAX N’ CHESTER

For Max N’ Chester, designed by Peter Trainor, this collection puts together a 54-piece line including tailored shirts, suits and contemporary outwear for men. Trainor also included expanded womenswear matching its male counterpart. He introduced two exclusive fabrics to the collection.

“I am excited to bring forward a collection that offers the signature Max ‘n Chester look and also incorporates modernity and newness,” said Trainor. “Maintaining our four pillars of brand philosophy: fabric, design, silhouettes, and comfort, the fall winter 2016 line is impeccably curated for anyone that seeks ultimate luxury.”

EDMUND OOI

Edmund Ooi aimed to blend collegiate prep with club kids. Inspired by the class of 2525, the designer offered up a futuristic take on the schoolboy uniform, complete with turtlenecks, leather perfecto jackets and duffel coats, all styled with cuffed denim jeans.

“I’m thinking about the student of the future and played on the idea of the uniform,” said Ooi. I really like this take myself. There is a futuristic vibe and I feel as if I’m seeing something quite different here.

KRAMER STOUDT

Mike Rubin, a Southern California native who launched his line in 2012, consistently draws from the surf, skate and punk culture of the Seventies and Eighties. But for his fall 2016 collection, he also pulled from German artist Markus Lüpertz, who regularly depicted a male dandy in his paintings.

With this collection, Kramer Stoudt not only captivated his audience with an intriguing presentation set-up, but also well-made, impeccable pieces, varying form suits to basics to outerwear.

PLAC

Titled “Retro Spectrum”, PLAC’s fall/winter 2016 collection is filled with textures that evoke 1990’s grunge between the Britpop and Madchester subculture music scene. Nostalgic sports aesthetics from the late 80’s and early 90’s are apparent throughout with pops of colors, prints and patterns.

Using familiar materials in an unfamiliar way is a core statement throughout the collection with pressed wool coats, knits infused with rayon, jackets with raccoon fur lining, and fabric blocking. Pops of cyber blue stand against a neutral color palette of black, white and olive.

STYLING — Tom Van Dorpe; CASTING — Maurilio Carnino for MTC Casting; MAKEUP — Perfekt; HAIR — Oribe; SHOES — Dr. Martens; PR — Agentry PR; HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY — Eric White; VIDEO — Alexey Yurenev; MUSIC — Yun B; STAGE & LIGHTING DESIGN — Max Relax; ADDITIONAL SPONSORS — American Woolens, Johnston & Murphy, Mario Bedescu, Aqua Brands

My Fave Fashion Nexus Posts of 2015

Posted on December 29, 2015 by SMM

Wow, what a year 2015 has been for Fashion Nexus. I wrote almost 140 individual posts. Updates and creations of various site pages and features. I attended 2 seasons for NYFW, probably with invites to well over 150 shows, attendance at near half. And what I love is knowing that there is still more to come. I can’t wait to see what 2016 has in store for my fashion blog!

It was so hard to pick a few faves of the year, but I selected 12 fave features of mine throughout 2015. But, right here are the top 4 posts of 2015 — What’s Hot for Prom, 2015; Best Dressed at the 2015 Golden Globes; various Project Runway postings; and Best Looks 2015 Golden Globes AfterParty.

Onto the top 12, ENJOY!

DRAMATIZON MAKEUP’S ICE KING & QUEEN SHOW

I love attending fashion shows, specifically thru Dramatizon Makeup, which I was introduced to about 2 years ago. This show is all about creative makeup looks and fierce inventive hair stylings. And on a side personal note, this show really helped to make 2015 all the more better for me. 2015 would have been very different had I never attended this show, not meeting some very special people, one in particular, that night.

PRODUCING MY OWN FASHION SHOW

Actually producing my show and then writing about it, very much a highlight of my year!

FORDHAM’S ANNUAL FASHION LAW SYMPOSIUM

I wrote a few posts on the Fashion Law Symposium, but I selected this particular one because of the riveting sessions I featured and it was so great being able to meet top model Coco Rocha!

THE RED CARPET TRENDS OF THE 2015 AWARD SEASON

Inspired from collaborative work with Mac Duggal, I went back thru all of the recent red carpets, highlighted trends, and then identified looks from the Mac Duggal catalogue of dresses.

Take for example a gorgeous go-to for any red carpet, a sizzling, bold red look —

And then, here is a stunning Mac Duggal look to match —

2015 INDEPENDENT HANDBAG DESIGNER AWARDS

Such a pleasure being able to attend the IHDAs, being in the presence of such great talent — definitely looking forward to more award shows to come!

ALL THINGS LAUREN CONRAD

Huge fan of LC, so being able to dedicate this #WCW feature on this fashionable icon was so much fun, such a pleasure!

MAXI DRESSES GALORE

I am a huge fan of maxi dresses. I had such fun looking thru maxi dresses for my fave designers and brands, and then being able to highlight some very unique finds for the season!

NYFW — REEM ACRA

Reem Acra is a designer brand I often feature on my own best dressed lists. It’s worn by such gorgeous ladies of Hollywood. So to be in attendance amongst some of the elite in the fashion industry — this is a true pleasure!

NYFW — TADASHI SHOJI

Tadashi Shoji is an amazing designer, with looks always on the red carpet, and it was such a thrill, a true honor, to attend this show again!

NYFW — DESIGUAL

This show is always a fave of mine during NYFW; it’s lively, vibrant, and exciting!

NYFW — LEANNE MARSHALL

Leanne Marshall was the first NYFW show I went to ever, way back when I first moved to NYC. Now that I am so in with my blog, it’s been great to witness Leanne’s journey thru several fashion weeks. I will always be happy to be in attendance.

NYFW — IDAN COHEN

This was my first time being introduced to this talented designer — wow, so many gorgeous, red carpet worthy looks — a new and instant fave!

Top Red Carpet Looks of 2015

Posted on December 28, 2015 by SMM

So many highlights in 2015 on the red carpet for various events, whether it was awards shows or premieres. Here are my top 25 ladies’ fashionable red carpet moments of 2015, plus top 4 mens’ moments to dapper up the list just a tad! ENJOY!!

Eva Longoria — Cannes Film Festival

gray lace sheer-paneled Gabriela Cadena gown, which features a plunging neckline and mini train
accessorized with Lorraine Schwartz jewels and
gorgeous make-up look was courteous of L’Oreal Paris.
Eva was attending the Inside Out premiere.

J.Lo — Oscars

beaded Elie Saab gown
accessorized with a crème Salvatore Ferragamo clutch and 20 carats, $2.5 million worth of Neil Lane diamond and platinum jewelry.
Stylist Lorenzo Martin was on deck for hair, this chic ponytail, with makeup by Mary Phillips, both of whom used L’Oreal products. Phillips provided some great pops of pink, both on the eyes and the lips!

Kate Hudson — Golden Globes

severely sexy white Versace gown,
Makeup artist Christian McCulloch calls Hudson the “ultimate golden California goddess” and opted for varying shades of tan, bronze, and gold from Dolce & Gabbana’s makeup line
She added some sparkle to her look with some beautiful diamond pieces from Forevermark.
Colorist Cassondra Keeding added babylights to Hudson’s blond strands to further emphasize the sun-goddess effect, while ghd Brand Ambassador, David Babaii, created a modern day chignon using the ghd Eclipse Flat Iron.
The details at the side are embellished with Swarovski crystals, and
a white Jimmy Choo clutch.

Greer Grammer — Miss Golden Globe

blush Lorena Sarbu gown with gold floral embellishments
statement-making Neil Lane jewelry, including her bold dangling earrings
a shimmery gold Jimmy Choo clutch.
Her stunning beauty look, created by Kip Zachary, encompassed a light blush on the cheek & pretty rose lip, compliments of L’Oreal Paris.
styled by Kelly Johnson.

Jamie Chung — Oscars

gown by Yanina Couture
a beautiful pair of Leticia Linton earrings.
overall styling by Sammy and Judy;
gorgeous wavy locks by Kira Nasrat;
fresh, natural beauty look from Daniel Marrone,
nails by Jay De La Cruz, with the help of Caption Polish.

Naomi Watts — Cannes Film Festival

the Sea of Trees party hosted by Grey Goose
intriguing tiered Armani Prive look
wearing Bulgari jewelry.

Giuliana Rancic — Oscars

daring red Mireille Dagher dress.
understated diamond pieces from Forevermark jewelry.
stylist, Monica Rose,
hair by Melissa Brown (lovely retro waves), and
makeup by Daniel Deleno, the perfectly coordinating bold red lip!

Danielle Bradbery — CMTs

molten, embellished Patricia Bonaldi mini

Eleanor Tomlinson — BAFTAs

exquisitely feather adorned, dove grey Ralph Lauren gown

Blake Lively — Age of Adaline Press Tour

For the film’s N.Y.C. premiere
bright red Monique Lhuillier dress,
Judith Leiber silver Koi Fish clutch and
beautiful diamond Lorraine Schwartz jewels.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley — Met Gala

molten Atelier Versace dress with an up-to-there slit and various cutouts
Christian Louboutin Benedetta nude sandal heels
Anita Ko earrings and rings.

Jana Kramer — CMAs

navy custom Galia Lahav gown
lovely jewelry by Sutra, Le Vian, and Brumani.

Katie Stevens — VMAs

navy blue Yousef Aljasmi gown
Pre-night prep with Caudalie face mask
Styling was by Sonia Michelle
Dramatic, bold makeup courtesy of Agostina Makeup
Kimberly McDonald jewelry

Danica McKellar — AMAs

pink-a-licious look by Shalik USA.

Nina Dobrev — TCAs

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

Sophia Bush

attending the PEOPLE and Entertainment Weekly‘s upfront party in N.Y.C.
deep purple Monique Lhuillier lace dress
black Stuart Weitzman sandal heels
a color coordinating Edie Parker clutch
a few diamond pieces from Karma El Khalil Jewelry.

Cassadee Pope — CMAs

sheer and golden lace gown by Jean Fares Couture
Her glam squad consisted of Neil Robison
stunning earrings were courtesy of Townsend Style.

Katie Cassidy — Oscars

breathtaking metallic silver Julien MacDonald gown
Stuart Weitzman heels,
a Salvatore Ferragamo clutch,
Jacob & Co diamond ring, and
Harry Kotler diamond earrings.

Nina Dobrev — Women in Television Celebration

black Zuhair Murad jumpsuit, complete with a beautiful sheer detailed bodice
lavender Stuart Weitzman pumps
black Jimmy Choo clutch.
diamond H. Stern earrings.

Julie Bowen — SAG Awards

embellished floral Georges Hobeika gown
caramel Rauwolf clutch
perfect jewelry accessories from EFFY, specifically these pink ice earrings.
Jill Crosby/hair stylist (chic sideswept bob-do, with help from Neutrogena styling products) &
Heather Currie/make-up artist (great copper smoky eye & soft pink lip), also Neutrogena beauty products. All products came from the ever-convenient Walgreens.

Jhene Aiko — Grammys

nude Alberta Ferretti dress
lovely diamond Lorraine Schwartz earrings and
Ofira rings.

Maria Menounos — Grammy’s AfterParty

black Emilio Pucci mini with lace details
Karla Otto worked wonders in finding this perfect look for her
Giannetos Dimitris too did a fabulous job with Maria’s hair — in love with this chic braid
terrific this nail art is, kudos to Nail Job Love.

Odette Annable — Oscars AfterParty

Monique Lhuillier — strapless floral appliqued gown
styling by @taratballz,
makeup/hair by Christine Symonds, chic updo & bold burgundy lip.

AnnaLynne McCord — Golden Globes AfterParty

all black Gemy Maalouf number with sheer lace detailing at the neckline and on the sides

Ellen Pompeo — People’s Choice Awards

blush pink Elie Saab jumpsuit with lace detailing
Christian Louboutin shoes,
a burgundy Salvatore Ferragamo clutch,
Graziela Gems diamond stud earrings, and
a Dana Rebecca Designs ring.

Nick Jonas — Tony Awards

Nick is looking quite handsome in his all black tuxe, courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

Hunter Hayes — ACM Awards

Common — Grammys

all black suit, Givenchy.

James Maslow — Golden Globes AfterParty

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