Reem Acra — Dreams Do Come True!

Posted on February 28, 2015 by SMM

The underlying inspiration here could clearly be all about dreams. It’s as if these pieces belong in a magical fantasy-world of some sort. Each look is imaginative, dreamy, and stunningly eye-catching. But when I speak of dreams coming true, the reference is more personal. I’ve been a huge fan of Reem Acra for quite some time now. Receiving my first ever invite and being at this show was an out of this world, unimaginable experience. It’s quite easy to label this as “A dream come true!” Being exposed to such phenomenal beauty was most certainly an honor to be a part of, but was also a truly enjoyable experience. And so with that, here are some of my favorite pieces from Reem Acra’s F/W 2015 collection at MBFW, Lincoln Center Salon.

But onto the actual inspiration for this beautiful collection. Designer Acra was inspired by Stevie Nicks’ “24-Karat Gold Collection” exhibit last fall of digitally reprinted self-portrait Polaroids from the Seventies. The photos evoked the particular time in that decade when retooling the Victorian aesthetic was rampant. According to Acra, “This put me in a mood, I got inspired, I started to dig in my archives and found pieces of embroidery, feathers that I had collected since I was five years old. I was transported to my own world.”

This world was a decadent fantasy of beads, lace, tulle and, of course, embroideries. The bulk of the lineup was composed of short dresses, mainly with long sleeves or fur topper. There were signs of Nicks in the collection — handkerchief hems and Victorian pouf-sleeve tops and jackets — but the mood veered toward vintage, and even Ottoman at points, given the opulent metallic laces and embroideries. The use of color is also quite entrancing, lavender, golds, metallic, sparkles, bright purple, ice pink, and more!

But the truly captivating aspect of these pieces, a tried and true signature for Reem Acra, is in the intricate details — the embellishments, the lace, the beading. Each look is so intriguing, eye-catching with every twist and turn, from each and every angle.

Speaking of angles, some great shots of these pieces are from the backside. The gorgeous trains are breathtaking, even more lovely details to take in. Reem Acra is a staple for most major red carpets and I’m sure as this year’s award shows continue on, and even into next year’s busy season, we will likely see some of these pieces again!

Hair/Makeup/Beauty — From the hair to the makeup, the beauty look at Reem Acra was inspired by rock legend Stevie Nicks. “The inspiration of Stevie Nicks gives it a lot of fantasy,” said Didier Malige, working with René Furterer. “The idea is that there is a feeling of couture, but it’s very individual.” Using a variety of texturizers, Malige described the final look, which had the hair close to the head with a couple of kinks as, “controlled and uncontrolled.”

Mark Carrasquillo put the focus on the eyes for Reem Acra by dusting a gold shadow on the eyelid, inner corner and under the eyes. “It’s a really luminous eye,” noted Carrasquillo. Finally, he topped the lip with balm, leaving it bare. “Everything that’s done is really blended out,” Carrasquillo said.

Miss Pop for OPI mixed two shades called Cosmo-not Tonight Honey, a metallic peach, and Up Front & Personal, which is a glittery, light gold. “It’s like your fairy godmother waved her magic wand and dusted your nails with gold magic,” said Miss Pop. “The clothes have all these metallic embellishments both silver and gold, and we wanted to make sure that it felt very Stevie Nicks. With this nail, we wanted you to get lost in the glitter the same way you get lost in her music.”

Major celeb in attendance, one of my personal faves, PLL star Ashley Benson!

Timo Weiland’s take on the American Traveler

Posted on February 28, 2015 by SMM

I have attended NYMD at Industria Superstudio for many seasons now. I was ecstatic when I found out that Timo Weiland would be presenting. They are such a dynamic brand, with stunning collections for both men and women. But of course being NYMD and all, this featured post is all about the men!

The design trio behind the label — Alan Eckstein, Timo Weiland, and Donna Kang — was inspired by the art of Robert Frank; specifically the photographer’s work observed in The American’s. It was the idea of Americans traveling the world that provided the design team with fuel for a collection that celebrated heritage pieces, modernized into new forms. The post-war era photography, from the late 1950’s showcased, or rather drew attention to, the lives of the rich and the poor in their respective environments. The designers emulated the resulting contrast in this Fall 2015 collection.

The truncated offering included “denim” jackets in suiting fabrics and woven sweatpants. Other elevated classics included traditional bombers, sweatshirts and work shirts. Time period in mind, the collection features window plane plaids in shades of grey, dark blues, black, and pops of color green, pink, and taupe. Design elements that have become signature for the brand are also present in the collection with color blocked shirts, wools, and zippers.

With my first time covering Timo Weiland, I have to say I was impressed. I’ve been following this brand for some time, so it was great to finally feature them on Fashion Nexus. These are great pieces for any man to incorporate into his wardrobe, some great basic pieces with a fashionable flair, outerwear, and I love the bold use of color. The contrast between the more traditional hues and the more vibrant tones was fascinating!

Show credits —

Casting — Edward Kim
Styling — Haley Loewenthal
Makeup — Oribe

Eyewear — Cutler & Gross
PR — Paul Wilmot Communications
Music — Messkid

Hair — AOFMPro
Footwear — Doc Martens

Hats — Stetson
Photography — Lucas Flores Piran
Additional sponsors & show credits — dermalogica, Maestro Dobel Tequila, Double Cross Vodka, hint Water, Peroni Italy, Johnston & Murphy, and Cadillac

Ready to Fish Presents “Compendium”

Posted on February 27, 2015 by SMM

For F/W 2015, Ready to Fish aspired to create a collection “that summarizes what we feel is the essence of Ready to Fish.” This presentation occurred during MBFW at Lincoln Center, Salon. There are some stunning pieces of RTW in this collection. Pieces that range from wardrobe basics to more upscale, chic looks that would fit perfectly for a burgeoning fashionista!

Un-related to any specific theme or inspiration, the brand started with a blank canvas to present a collection that reads like a sketchbook, and a compendium of the Ready to Fish style. It was important for them to capture the sketch-like quality of the unfinished, leaving room for both the brand’s own and customers’ imagination and interpretation. There is a minimalistic quality about this collection, leaving room for a customer to style and accessorize any given look.

As a metaphor for this collation of ideas, Ready to Fish made use of classic marble prints, adorning sketchbooks, and archive folders that will prove instantly recognizable to everyone. The collection also emphasizes the idea that many archetypes that inspired us belong to the public domain, and that the use of codes, references verses our own interpretations and developments are at constant play throughout the design process.

The designer behind Ready to Fish is Dutch fashion designer Ilja. Following the success of her couture line, Ilja decided to transform the same nature and attributes of ILJA into more wearable, everyday designs. The prêt-a-porter line, Ready to Fish, was introduced in 2006, translating a consistent innovative approach of artistic expressions as ILJA does. In December 2013, Ready to Fish by Ilja was introduced.

A core vision for the brand is to give women all over the world the opportunity to indulge themselves with beautiful fashion and lifestyle products, is applied. This vision is put into practice through the mission of creating true, optimal product engagement and innovation in all operations. This is all combined with the development of a strong brand portfolio that offers a valuable consumer experience and promotes long-term loyalty. To ensure the values of high standard design and quality of both labels, the finest fabrics are selected, all details of production are meticulously monitored, and a close watch is kept on current trends.

Celebs and special guests in attendance were actress Stassi Schroeder, Miss NY Jilian Tapper, Elizabeth Savetsky, Designer Erin Erickson, WWD Fashion Market Editor Kristi Garced, & Designer Erin Dana

Show credits —

Nails — Patty Yankee
PR — Seventh House

NYMD Round-Up

Posted on February 27, 2015 by SMM

Here is a round-up post for a few menswear designers who presented at NYMD during NYFW, held at Industria Superstudio and presented by Cadillac — Cadet, Fingers Crossed, & Garcia Velez.

Cadet

Inspired by the wartime restrictions in the Forties, Cadet presented tailored clothing mixed with workwear staples. Classic pieces included double-breasted suits, chunky shawl cardigans, bombers, and beanies in herringbone twill and wool blended with nylon. The collection was an ode to the gritty soldier, but in a modern way.

Raúl Arévalo and Brad Schmidt launched their brand, Cadet, in 2011. All clothes are produced in their workshop in Bushwick, Brooklyn, pairing subtle military references with an elegant urban take on menswear.

Fingers Crossed

Ryu Hayama dug deep for inspiration for his collection — the deep blue sea that is — with a nautical-themed offering that offered water prints on pajama bottoms and shirts, bright yellow leather bombers and track pants, and a traditional French sailor’s stripe on sweaters.

But Hayama elevated the collection by including sharp tailoring in suits and topcoats as well in rich wool-cashmere blends. The voluminous, multi-pleated pants and belted topcoats were very on trend.

Garcia Velez

A Harvard-educated architect, professor and author, Carlos Garciavelez finally embraced his first love by designing a men’s collection. No surprise then that his inaugural offering integrated many elements of architectural design such as paneling in shirts, ribbing in blazers and concealed pockets and pleats that were reminiscent of the shapes and corners of buildings. These extra details provided a sense of movement that married the athletic essence of the overall collection.

GARCIAVELEZ was created to deliver comfortably tailored clothing for the fast paced modern life. Conceived for today’s cultural nomad – a sophisticated, curious man in constant search of inspiration through life’s travels – the brand examines the global citizen, who returns home to infuse a wanderlust spirit into his daily life in the city.

Carlos Campos Says Texture is the New Black

Posted on February 25, 2015 by SMM

“If I were a chair, I would be a desk. If I were an animal, I would be a cat. If I were a box, it would be open. If I were a place, it would be in the shadow. The ret are textures and degraded colors.” (Rafafans, Spanish Graphic artist and Art Director for Carlos Campos) Carlos Campos presented his artistic Fall 2015 collection for NYMD, held at Industria Superstudio and presented by Cadillac.

The collection was inspired by Rafafans. In his chosen mediums of collage and photomontage, Rafafans creates dreamlike images with a subtle sense of playfulness and humor, informed by his deep understanding of textural and color interplay. Campos says he discovered Rafafans’ work while walking the streets of Lima. He was fascinated by his use of patterns and collage to create new texture over existing images. Campos said “Although the essence of the image was recognizable, what was done to it rendered it completely new and almost surreal.”

So the Rafafans created a series of work based on Campos’ Fall 2014 collection. He was then inspired to emulate Rafafan’s techniques for this new collection, overlaying collage-like graphic treatments and patchwork elements as well as incorporating photo-realistic prints, while maintaining attention to detail, tailoring, and minimalism, which are all Campos signatures. Carlos describes this collection as being about “the transformative powers of art to change perception, change in the eye of the beholder. My designs this season leverage the power of texture and shape to appear different depending on the angle. You could say that this Fall, for me, texture is the new black.”

Designs for the season have been constructed in a streamlined palette of solid blues, with accents of plaids and stripes. The collection features constructed panels of striking designs that invoke wave-like movement, overlaid silk-screened prints, and the use of shapes, contours, and topography to create texture and op-art like effects. The suits are classically constructed, yet cropped, allowing for hints of underlying textures and colors to peek thru. Campos’ new take on outerwear incorporates “texture blocking” while maintaining a sleek, modern silhouette. Sweatshirts featuring Campos’ iconic images and designs round out a collection that deftly blurs the lines between dreams & reality.

Show credits –

PR – Agentry PR
Styling – Julie Ragolia
Casting – Maurilio Carnino for MTC Casting
Makeup – Yin Lee for AOFMPro using Dermalogica

Hair – Oribe
House Photography – Marko Kalfa
Shoes – Johnston & Murphy
Music – James D’Adamo

Models & Agencies – DNA, Aim, Fusion, Major, NYM, Re:Quest, Soul, VNY, Wilhelmina, One.1, Click

Additional Sponsorships & Credits – hint Water, Peroni Italy, Double Cross Vodka, Dobel Tequila

Ad of the Day: Ads Don’t Get Much More Joyfully Hypnotic Than Samsung’s Latest

It’s Casual Sportswear for GENTS

Posted on February 23, 2015 by SMM

Black ‘Knight Rider’ quilted flat brim cap, suede visor, black brushed tricot hooded pullover with metallic gold detail, black brushed tricot color blocked sport pant, and black performance sock

Gents went with a calm, cool, collected vibe for F/W 2015 during the brand’s presentation for NYMD, held at Industria Superstudio and presented by Cadillac. We all need staple, well-made pieces in our wardrobe, so for mens’ sportswear, look no further than Gents!

Cadillac Lounge Look — navy ‘John’ mesh cap with black brim, black/white French terry zip front hoodie, & navy brushed tricot sport pant

It’s clear the concept was to keep the pieces simple, understated, and minimal. These looks were all about great fit, clean lines, with pieces you can easily incorporate into your on-the-go lifestyle. The looks would work great at the gym, casual Saturday afternoon or errands, or even just a low-key night out.

100% black leather metallic gold brim cap, white french terry pullover hoodie, black quilted sport pant, and black performance sock

Very few pops of color were present in this collection, really just some maroon. But it wasn’t the vibe, so Gents stuck with basics in black and white, and more traditional colors for the fall season, namely navy blue. There were lots of separates, the ability to mix and match. There was differing fabrics though, such as comfy quilted pants to pieces incorporate leather. It’s the intricate, minimal details of this collection that make these pieces more than just your basic sweats or workout wear.

100% leather white brim cap, navy/black/white brushed tricot zip front hoodie, black sport pant with white stripe detail, and black performance sock

I was impressed by the brand’s ability to keep it very simple, and stick with this vibe as a cohesive theme. It’s not always about the bells and whistles!

100% black leather cap with white stripe detail, black perforated zip front hoodie, black perforated moto pant, and black performance sock

Show Credits –

Styling – Wendell Brown
Casting – Trew Productions
Makeup – Michelle Webb for AOFM Pro using Dermalogica
Hair – Oribe

Bobby’ bomber in grey with faux fur detail, brushed tricot navy/black chevron zip front hoodie, black/navy brushed tricot moto pant, and black performance sock

PR – Agentry PR
Photography – Jordan James Video/Patrick Phillips
Shoes – Greats
Bracelets – Tuleste

Greg’ gradient twelve panel flat brim cap, black french terry crew neck pullover with perforated detail, maroon sport pant, and black performance sock

Models & Agencies – Adam, Aim, Click, Ford, Fusion, IMG, Major, NY Models, One, Re:quest, DNA, Red, Soul, Q, & Wilhelmina

Black ski beanie with faux shearling lining, white french terry zip front chevron hoodie, black sport pant with zipper detail, and black performance sock

Additional show credits & Sponsors – Johnston & Murphy, hint Water, Double Cross Vodka, Maestro Dobel Tequilla, Peroni Italy

Wendell’ silver mesh performance snap back cap, black french terry zip-front chevron hoodie with maroon detail, black french terry sport pant, and black performance sock

Rubin & Chapelle Presents at the Top of the Standard

Posted on February 23, 2015 by SMM

And yes, I mean that literally – not just high standards, but at the Top of the Standard Hotel! FW2015 is the most recent stop in RUBIN&CHAPELLE’s continued exploration of modern dress codes. Spring introduced prints in soft tops and dresses. This fall brings heavier fare in tweed coats and trousers.

Designers Sonja Rubin and Kip Chapelle worked with designer Johanna Michel to develop prints based on traditional Scottish motifs. The results are rescaled and distorted digital prints of tartan and argyle in earth tones and pinks throughout the season’s collection. The Scottish menswear influence appears in tweeds, kilt skirts, distorted tartans, and abstract argyles. “We wanted to modernize the traditional Scottish menswear look for women.”

Jackets and Tops are mechanically edge fringed. Virtual fringes are on dresses and jackets and achieved through print. The silhouette is generally soft and easy. Bottoms include circle skirts and pencil trousers. Tops include button up blouses and looser shapes. Kilt pleats are softened in silk blends and traditional patterns enlarged. “We’re accustomed with solids, but used a lot of print this season. Layering and mixing prints just felt right”, says Sonja.

Fabrics utilized in this collection were wool tweed, cotton shirting, wool suiting, duchess silk, silk broadcloth, and silk/cotton blends. These eye-catching prints of course provide this collection with some vibrant colors, hot pink, teal, subtle yellow, tomato red, tangerine, and more. But as a great balance, there are some stand-out pieces in basic colors such as black, white, and grey.

This collection is brimming with classic silhouettes, which are brought to life by bold details, the graphic prints, leather shoulder details, color-blocking, and more. Wearing any of these pieces, no matter the place, you would definitely not go unnoticed!

Show credits —

PR – Seventh House
Shoes – Sperry Top Sider
Stylist – Jules Wood

Creative Director – Frank Milliren
Design Direction – Marcus Huemer

Photography – Peter Stanglmayr
Hair/Makeup — Augment

NOTABLE GUESTS in attendance: Morgan Stewart and EJ Johnson

Idan Cohen — A Fashion Week Wedding & Show!

Posted on February 22, 2015 by SMM

For A/W 2015, Idan Cohen presented his stunning collection at MBFW, Lincoln Center, the Pavilion. On February 14th, this talented designer had 2 dreams come to fruition. One, he married his partner Elad Borenstein at the first ever Fashion Week wedding! Now I’ve seen a Fashion Week proposal, but I imagine this would have been great to witness firsthand. I wasn’t there for the 1st dream come true moment for Cohen, but I was able to attend his runway show, which was another dream realized for the designer. He presented for the first time ever in NYC at NYFW! Singing at Idan’s wedding and attending his show were Nashville duo singing sensations Lennon & Maisy!

Cohen is known for bridal and couture pieces. And with eveningwear, it’s all about the sensuality, mixed with elegance. That is exactly what we are seeing here! His inspiration for this particular collection was femininity, specifically the woman’s body. These pieces truly encapsulate this delicate balance of glamor and lasciviousness.

I’m seeing a huge future for Idan Cohen. I could easily see these looks on A list celebs on major red carpets right now! I’m even sure they would not only be eye-catching, but top best-dressed lists.

The colors utilized here are all amazing! It’s of course great to see some traditional, classic black numbers, but the looks in rose pink and ice blue, PERFECTION!

Celebs in attendance were — Miss Jay Alexander, and Maisy and Lennon Stella.

Show credits —

PR, Production, and Show Direction — People’s Revolution
Makeup — Regan Rabanal for MAC Cosmetics

Stylist — Masha Orlov
Hair — Marc Mena for Warren Tricomi

Casting — Cast Inc., Anna Lev
Music — The Misshapes
Nails — Pattie Yankee

Mara Hoffman Takes Flight!

Posted on February 21, 2015 by SMM

Rise embroidered cream linen shift dress with striped bodice and black knit turtleneck

Belted Starbasket chiffon gown with long sleeves

Tufted chiffon landscape long-sleeve gown

Mara Hoffman presented her 38-piece Fall 2015 collection for MBFW/NYFW at Lincoln Center, the Salon. Generally when I think of Mara Hoffman, I think wild, graphic, psychedelic prints. She still threw in some bold prints, but I thought this presentation was a bit more tame, a more reserved Mara Hoffman if I dare say. It still had the Mara Hoffman signatures and touches so I’m still on board! And it was such an honor to be at this runway. My 1st time for Mara Hoffman and I definitely hope to be there for many more shows & seasons to come!

Cream tweed cross front Luke suit

Triad CDC Gown

Riser embroidered cream linen shirtdress with black, peach, blue, teal stripes

Aviation was a bit of an underlying inspiration with this collection. The runway show music was of the same nature, taking flight, gears grinding, sounds of a plane taking off. You could also see it in many of the pieces, whether it was the styling, very reminiscent of this stylized trend, especially the tall tan boots, which I loved BTW, or the knit shawls! But a lot of the prints too had the same vibe.

Triad CDC Gown

Trapunto twill coat with Starbasket Jacquard knit shawl

White Trapunto star vest with black and cream tweed jumpsuit

As I mentioned earlier, this was a tamer Mara Hoffman than I’m used to seeing. There were still some vibrant pops of colors though, mainly in the more wild prints, tangerine, lime green, and red. But a lot of the prints and/or colors, were a bit more subtle, somewhat more muted, deep purple, light teal, soft pink, just to name a few. I really liked these lighter, softer color choices. It showed a different side for me to Mara’s work, and that is always a great aspect to have as a designer. I loved seeing her be forward thinking and innovative for this upcoming fall season!

Blue Connector crepe strapless jumpsuit

There were so many standout pieces in this collection. I loved the blue/purple/grey jumpsuit, the mixed media black sheer dresses, the ivory look below, and the black/ivory/rose pink satin dresses, just to name a few! There is just so much one could do with these looks. You could layer them up, pair them with knee-high boots as we saw here, and make it work for the colder east coast vibe. Or, you could un-layer the looks, so to speak, pair with some flats or sandals, and then BOOM, you are ready to hit up the West coast! These are high fashion RTW looks, daring and oh so very bold. A burgeoning fashionista would no doubt want a few of these pieces to make sure she stood out no matter her destination!

Crepe back satin dress with front and back keyhole in ivory

Blue Connector Ponte cross front dress with an open weave turtleneck

CDC connector buttondown and full skirt

Special guests in attendance were actress Juliette Lewis, Jeannette McCurdy, Teen Vogue’s style editor Andrew Bevin, singer Kate Nash, fashion stylist Madison Guest, Victoria Justice, Nana Meriweather.

Tufted chiffon landscape fitted bodice midi gown

Show credits —

Black brushed cotton apron dress with Tessellate turtleneck

PR & Front of House — Laforce + Stevens
Casting — Zan Casting
Hair — Thomas Osborn & Adriana Papaleo for Catwalk by Tigi

Stylist — Richard Ruiz
Production — Judith Rice
Makeup — Lottie for Maybelline NY

Music — Ben Brunnemer
Nails — Alicia Torello for Zoya

Set — Andrea Huelse
Jewelry — Erin Considine

Additional Credit — Bridgewater Candle Company

Tessellate CDC Maxi Shift Dress with long sleeves

So remember — Keep your feet on the ground, hands in the sky, and allow the force to be with you at all times! 🙂

Welcome to Fatema Fardan’s High Fashion Garden

Posted on February 20, 2015 by SMM

Emirati designer Fatema Fardan recently presented her garden chic, culturally eclectic A/W 2015 collection for NYFW at the trendy Soho spot, Voce Di Gallery. The space was transformed into a fashionable garden. Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, daughter of the renowned fashion editor Carine Roitfeld, hosted the event. DJ Leigh Lezark of The Misshapes provided the music for the presentation, further creating an unforgettable atmosphere and show.

Fardan seamlessly and clearly brought the Middle East to her folklore-inspired pieces. “I was looking at traditional folklore clothing and thinking how I could translate them into clothes that the contemporary woman would like to wear,” says Fardan. “I did a lot of research and took elements from heritage clothing but refined it into a manner that can be versatile,” she says.

Forest green, crimson red, black and grey are artfully blended into dresses, cropped palazzo trousers, chiffon blouses and heavy, crepe culottes. Fardan went with her signature floral backdrops; however, this time in warm colors. “I have a major love affair with nature, so it’s important for me to incorporate aspects of it in my spaces,” she says. “I think about the mix-and-match aspect when I’m designing,” she says. “The way that we live nowadays, as modern consumers, we don’t wear one brand or kind of design from head to toe.”

“To be a designer you have to be open to different ways of thinking and different cultures,” she says. “You see that in most of the important designers; they’re like a culture sponge – they pick up everything from different people and places and translate it to their own design vision.” And all the elements were present to showcase this culturally rich collection: luxe fabrics, flowy silhouettes, fringe embellishments, chunky knits, and furry stoles.

There are a lot of strong pieces in this collection. The colors, how the looks are styled, really make each piece eye-catching and intriguing. I love the leather color-blocked pencil skirt. The moss green jacket below is also a stand-out piece. Show credit — PR — Seventh House.

Special guests for the event included renown fashion designer and stylist Rachel Zoe, fashion blogger Natalie Joos, fashion mogul Mohammed Sultan Al Habtoor, model Cory Kennedy, model Willy Cartier.

“The whole night felt like a beautiful dream,” she says. “The ambiance was perfect – it was everything I wanted it to be.” I agree! This presentation was top notch, even the tiniest of details was thought out. We in the fashion world appreciate this astute dedication and attention to detail.

Fashion Nexus

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

Tag Archives: New York City

Reem Acra — Dreams Do Come True!

Timo Weiland’s take on the American Traveler

Ready to Fish Presents “Compendium”

NYMD Round-Up

Carlos Campos Says Texture is the New Black

It’s Casual Sportswear for GENTS

Rubin & Chapelle Presents at the Top of the Standard

Idan Cohen — A Fashion Week Wedding & Show!

Mara Hoffman Takes Flight!

Welcome to Fatema Fardan’s High Fashion Garden

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

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