Fashion Law Symposium — The Final Segment

Posted on June 25, 2015 by SMM

So I have already written 2 previous posts on Fordham Law School’s annual Fashion Law Symposium, thru the Fashion Law Institute. Time has passed since the symposium, but the topical discussions were still worthy of a Fashion Nexus write-up! In addition, I have yet to share the major fun, non-topical portion of the event, a special fashion show by technological fashion brand CuteCircuit. So throughout this post are various images from this exciting runway presentation!!

But back to the panels, there was Power Dressing: Politics, Dress Codes, and the Public Eye.

Panelists were —

Jeffrey Banks — Designer & author
Vanessa Friedman — The NY Times
Carol Hochman — RHH Capital & Consulting
Rachel Larris — Women’s Media Center
Lyn Paolo — Costume Designer
Moderator: Professor Susan Scafidi, Fashion Law Institute at Fordham

I was not present at this discussion, but it was all about looking at public figures, and one’s appearance being scrutinized and criticized. Fashion is a means of communication, so many who are in the public eye, politicians, celebs, executives, and the like use their clothing to establish an image and/or convey a message. Media coverage has also been ever-increasing in this area, and has become quite controversial, inspiring campaigns such as #AskHerMore and backlash over gender-specific dress codes. So how does commentary about clothing affect the wearer, and should this type of commentary be off limits? What constitutes power dressing in an era when hemlines no longer rise and fall by fiat? And when organizations contemplate dress codes, how can they stay on the right side of both public opinion and the law?

Next up, The Power of 2: Licensing and Wearable Technology. The panelist were —

Adam Clark Estes — Gizmodo
Monica B. Richman — Dentons
Francesca Rosella & Ryan Genz — CuteCircuit
Natasha Sardesai-Grant — Ralph Lauren
Moderator — Rob Sanchez, Manufacture NY

In light of the wearable technology fashion show we would all later experience, this topic of discussion was spot on. Fashion and technology is on the rise. It’s a fast growing sector, from luxury consumer shopping at Ralph Lauren with the Lauren Ricky Bag with light or to Apple’s rose gold watch. But wearable tech is not the product of one industry, it’s two.

A previous panel discussion from another year discussed patents and data privacy in the context of wearable. So with this discussion, the focus was shifted to how best to bring together these two industries, the different legal cultures, especially in the area of IP protection. Plans were discussed on how brands could source out for this tech work, such as with license agreements. There was also talks then again to budgets and how to allocate for IP protection. This area is still emerging so I am sure it will be a topic at fashion law panels to come.

All in all, I had a great time covering the Fashion Law Symposium and it was amazing now share these fashion law areas with all of my readers. In light of Fordham Law’s recent news with now having fashion law be an academic degree, thanks in part to the CFDA, these continued discussions on Fashion Law, and the many aspects it entails is highly important in the fashion industry. I look forward to continuing my research and discussion in this growing field!

2015 Independent Handbag Designer Awards

Posted on June 13, 2015 by SMM

The 2015 Independent Handbag Designer Awards are next week, June 17th, 2015, and will be held at the School of the Visual Arts Theatre in NYC (333 W 23rd Street) at 8 pm. I am ecstatic that I will have the privilege to attend this prestigious ceremony. If anyone would actually like to attend, you can too as well! Click here to purchase tickets!

Founded in 2007 by Handbag Designer 101, the IHDAs were created to celebrate handbag design and creativity from around the world. The IHDA is the only international design competition of its kind, receiving lots of great press over the years, and and is a platform for putting new designer talent on the map. Now in its ninth year, it is an industry staple responsible for high profile collaborations and hundreds of success stories.

This year, Rebecca Minkoff will be honored with the 2015 ICONOCLAST Award. 40 finalists in 8 categories will be present. Huge prizes are at stake, such as a feature in the September issue of InStyle (Event Sponsor), potential partnerships with Guess, MaryKay Cosmetics, and Trina Turk. Also, the “Best Overall” will receive a feature on the digital e-commerce platform EVINE Live.

Here are the 2015 finalists across the 8 categories — (all pictures in order of listing for each category)

The EVINE Live Best Handbag in Overall Style & Design —
Best executed handbag overall in style and design

The EVINE Live Best Handbag in Overall Style and Design – These bags represent the best-executed handbag in overall style and design. Winner will receive a booth at WWDMAGIC, a mentorship with Hilldun and a brand consultancy with the Accessory Think Thank. The winner will also garner the opportunity to have their line sold on EVINE Live, a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and a feature in the September issue of InStyle.

The Trina Turk Best Studentmade Handbag

Laura Sabolich
Danielle Gumina – GRIP Handbags
Nathalia Jacques
Kyungmi Bae – Angie.Bae
Blake Felty – Timson Rad

Students who started a line while in school. Winner will receive a coveted apprenticeship with famed designer, Trina Turk and Signal Brands. Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and also be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.

Bernina Best Hand-Made Handbag —
Made with any material where the designer is making their bag by sewing machine or by hand

Boris Matveev – Kabo Leather
Gina DeWolfe – deWolfe
Christina Banjo – Christina Chi
Kamon Satayaphanitkul Sataya
WILLaCY by Kamilah Willacy

Winner will receive the BERNINA 560 sewing machine. In addition, winners will have the prestigious opportunity to be an Ambassador for BERNINA in creating blogs and projects for BERNINA social media and We All Sew Blog. Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and also be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.

Klean Kanteen Best Green Handbag —
Bags that are made out of sustainable, recycled or organic materials

Sugandh Agrawal – GUNAS
Jennifer Silbert & Lisa Siedlecki – Rewilder
Janis Lee New York
Ian James
Deneau – Hanna Varner

Winner will have the opportunity to work with Klean Kanteen, a year-long membership to the Accessories Council and will be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.

Fashion 4 Development Most Socially Responsible Handbag — Bags that are made in a country where the proceeds are given back to the country of manufacturing or people that are employed to manufacture handbags to better their lives and/or conditions

Dora Izquierdo – DOIZPE
Lea Forteza – Forteza
Ana Maria Plata – Leonor
Gbemisola Johnson – O’Eclat Designs
Eileen Garcia

Winner will receive a feature with Fashion 4 Development. Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and also be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.

Distinctly Denim by Guess Handbags — Sketch Based Category
The most trend driven use of denim, in a playful and imaginative way by embracing the personality of the brand

Winner will garner an amazing opportunity to have their bag sold on Guess.com, work alongside our handbag designer based in Florence, Italy, receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and receive a feature in the September issue of InStyle. We are partnering with the Guess Foundation to donate a portion of the proceeds of the winning bag to the social service agency Peace Over Violence. Its mantra: Make a social statement with your fashion statement. And wear denim for a purpose.

The Standout & Look Great Work Bag by MOO — Sketch Based Category
Creating the unisex bag for professionals on the go. Business does not have to be boring.

Jennifer Hamley, England
Minjung Kim – Bona M. Kim
Susanne Breul – BREUL Lefties’ Finest
Erica Harel
April Rose LaFave – Hebe Rose

The category winner will receive MOOlah with which to create business stationery, promotional materials, and merchandising assets. The Designer and bag will be showcased on moo.com materials, and merchandising assets. The Designer and bag will be showcased on moo.com and the category promoted on moo.com, owned social channels, and Handbag Designer 101. The Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and also be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.

The MARYKAY Most Irresistible Makeup Bag — Sketch Based Category
The most versatile and stylish makeup bag that every woman will want.

Amy Steele & Janine Cooper
Tika Kuchukhidze – TIKA
Emilia Arzua & Carla Lopez
Alyssa Fisherden – ACF
Monica Frisbie – Mondrina

Winner will have an amazing opportunity to work on Mary Kay projects and have their bag featured on global MaryKay.com’s and social media platforms. Winner will receive a yearlong membership to the Accessories Council and also be part of the IHDA feature in the September issue of InStyle.

The 2015 preliminary judges panel is made up of the top industry influencers and bloggers —

Colin McDonald — NYC PR firm owner
Nancy Forman — owner & operator of The Accessory Think Tank
Lolita Alford — Social media marketing whiz
Emma Grady — personal stylist and award winning fashion writer
Lois Sakany — Founder & editor of TheSnobette
Samia Grand Pierre — Editor of TheSnobette
Celia San Miguel — Bilingual style & beauty expert
Dawn Del Russo — stylist, on-air fashion expert and tv personality, recently seen on Glamour Magazine show “Dressed to Kill”
Pamela Pekerman — fashion and lifestyle expert
Grace Gold — multimedia beauty journalist
Lidia Z. — founder of StylingOn
Adriana Marie Quaranto — started a new company called AMCONYC which is the go-to platform for emerging designers, millennials and entrepreneurs
Carey Reilly — Comedian, TV Host, and Actress

So make sure to tweet or message to any brands you know a congrats for making it as a finalist and send them encouraging words to wish them luck for next week! In the meantime, check out pictures from last year’s ceremony and who the finalists and winners were last year. From Fashion Nexus, GOOD LUCK to all of the designer finalists this year as I am a huge supporter of independent and/or emerging fashion designers!

Remember, click here to purchase tickets!

This year’s sponsors are — InStyle, Guess, Rebecca Minkoff, Trina Turk, Signal Brands, Bernia, EVINE Live, Moo, Mary Kay, Klean Kanteen, Fashion 4 Development, Basic Adhesives Leather, Affinia, Garment District NYC, Pantone, WWD Magic, Hilldun, Leather Suede Skins, Bottomless Closet, Tassen Museum, The Fashion Class, Save the Garment Center, Accessory Think Tank, & Accessories Council.

JUNGWON — Breathable Outerwear

Posted on June 10, 2015 by SMM

It was such an immense pleasure that the dynamic outerwear brand, JUNGWON, invited me recently to their new boutique. Located in the heart of Tribeca, the breathable outerwear brand is further expanding as now you can not only shop online, but in their new, fun-filled shop. The brand is all about designing contemporary, yet timeless jackets that offer a chic twist on classic outerwear.

JUNGWON has always been about high performance, and again, breathable outerwear. The jackets and coats are meant entirely to be practical and functional, but also fashionable. All in all, they are very high quality. They are also waterproof, windproof and wrinkle-free.

What I enjoy a great deal about this brand is that it offers lots of options for customers. You have more neutral, everyday color options say in a black or nude, but then you too can spice it up a bit with more vibrant colors such as bright blue, tomato red, and sunshine yellow. There are options also with that of raincoats, trenches, or capes, and this is for both men and women!! Check out the sales page!!

With a continued focus on sustainability and fair trade practice, JUNGWON integrates recyclable materials and is locally made in New York City collections. You can check out the brand’s previous and current collections by clicking here.

JUNGWON is a compliment to any fashion commuter, stylish parent, or coat lovers’ wardrobe. Check out the sales page!

Make sure to check out the brand on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. I’m sure you will enjoy seeing their latest updates and pieces just as much as me!

Best Dressed Combo — Flower Power

Posted on June 9, 2015 by SMM

A couple of major red carpets occurred over the past week, thus deserving of some best dressed nods. There was the 2015 Tony Awards and then the 2015 Critics Choice Awards (TV). So here are my fave picks!

Vanessa Hudgens

I am all about some florals for this best dressed list, especially Vanessa in this vibrant printed floral Naeem Khan gown. Paired with her look, a glittery gold Rodo clutch and Norman Silverman jewelry.

Her glam squad — Laura Polko creating this elegant updo, and Natalie Saidi for styling the look.

Jennifer Grey

Jennifer looked stunning in this stark white, lace Zac Posen fitted gown with feathers adorned on the hem. Her Glam squad details are as follows — Vanessa Heshima for both hair & makeup and Danielle Levy for styling.

Anna Chlumsky

There were a couple of maroon gowns gracing my best dressed list. First one being Anna in this full length, silk Sophie Theallet dress. She accessorized with Solange Azagury Partridge jewelry.

Patricia Clarkson

Not sure who Patricia is wearing, but with another bold floral look, I couldn’t resist in adding her to my list. I love the contrast of this shortened black dress with the lively, crimson red rose print.

Elisabeth Moss

Elisabeth too donned some florals, her choice, a fitted white Oscar de la Renta gown with multi-colored flowers embellishing the bodice.

NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 07: Elisabeth Moss attends the 2015 Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall on June 7, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

She also had an amazing glam team, Kemal Harris & Tommy Buckett for styling, and Daniel Martin for beauty.

Kristin Chenoweth

Kristin was shimmery and shiny all over in this metallic silver Zac Posen gown, fitted to a tee and with a slight train. Deb Watson was her stylist for this look.

Leanne Cope

More flower action from Leanne with this dark grey, mixed media, Randi Rahm dress. I am usually not a fan of florals and polka dots mixed, but here, it works! She paired with her look. Oscar Heyman earrings. And for her overall look details, we have Dessange for the gorgeous updo and makeup from L’Oreal Paris.

Debra Messing

Debra was my other maroon pick, her dress being a shortened Zac Posen halter strapped look. Beautiful accessories for her look include matching Jimmy Choo heels, a Judith Leiber clutch, and lavender DeGrisogono jewelry.

Kelli O’Hara

Not sure of the designer details for Kelli, but it’s another floral look, so of course I’m on board. But really it has such a vintage, antique quality to the dress that I am just such a fan!

Josh Groban & Kat Dennings

I am not sure who Kat is wearing, but I do know who helped in putting the overall look together — stylist Lawren Sample, makeup by Carolina Dali with use of Chanel products, and hair by Gareth Bromell.

Nick Jonas

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

Dule Hill

Dule is another stylish looking gent, his suit though in navy blue and by Ralph Lauren, with black Salvatore Ferragamo shoes and accessories by Scott Kay.

Constance Zimmer

The UnREAL actress floated down the carpet in a floral crop top and a matching full skirt by Leanne Marshall. It must be the summer in the air, but I am really just loving all of the bright, colorful floral looks!

Jaimie Alexander

Jaimie went ultra-understated, but also ultra-chic with this ombre slate Halston Heritage strapless dress. Her accessories were all perfection, a Pasquale Bruni diamond bracelet, a metallic Halston clutch, Doves ring, and black Kurt Geiger heels.

Cat Deeley

And to complete my list, a final vibrant look from Cat, a tangerine Azzaro Couture, chiffon halter dress, embellished with feathery, navy embroidery.

Irina Shabayeva — Breathtaking Couture Designs

Posted on May 28, 2015 by SMM

As a fashion fanatic I am of course a Project Runway enthusiast as well. As such, I was a huge fan of Project Runway Season 6 winner and Project Runway All-Stars Season 3 designer, Irina Shabayeva.

Her work has always been stunningly breathtaking and quite mesmerizing. So having the chance to not only see her work in person, but to also meet this multi-faceted talent, there was no way I could turn this opportunity down!

So firstly, I was able to attend a special, sneak-peak preview for Irina’s work at Space Sixteen. This preview was for her 2015 Bridal Couture fashion show. Space Sixteen is a classy, unique boutique in the heart of Soho, a space for artists and innovative designers to showcase their work.

The preview was definitely enough to peak my interest, but Irina’s runway show was immaculately conceived and utterly divine.

The show was hosted by The Set NYC and Freedom Ladder, with the goal to help in achieving Freedom Ladder’s mission to end human trafficking.

The show was held at the Holy Apostles Ballroom in Chelsea. Catering for the event was provided by Noels Catering Kitchen.

Irina will be showcasing her talents again, on June 4th, also at the Holy Apostles Ballroom, for Fashion Night Out, another event to end Child Trafficking. The Set NYC is too putting on this series of runway presentations, also including shows by Alex Vinash and Reverie. You can purchase tickets for this thru Eventbrite.

So enjoy a few other looks from this fabulous runway show, once again for the lovely and creative Irina Shabayeva.

Photo credits —

Fashion Law Symposium — Part 2

Posted on May 11, 2015 by SMM

So I did an intro post on Fordham Law School’s annual Fashion Law Symposium, thru the Fashion Law Institute. There were a great deal of captivating panel discussion, thus, my posts on this symposium are being done in multiple individual posts. So here is part 2, ENJOY!

Topic — Pulling the Plug: Fashion Companies, Dissolution, and Bankruptcy

Panelists —

Laura McCabe of Brandt and Brandt Law PLLC
James Michael Peck of Morrison & Foerster
Jay Silverberg of Silverberg Law Firm
Gary A. Wassner of Hilldun Corporation and Interluxe Holdings LLC
Moderator — Professor Caroline Gentile of Fordham Law School

I am sure this was an interesting discussion. I missed this one sadly, but I’m positive many found it valuable. It’s not the most fun part of fashion, but with some brands, some companies, it’s inevitable. So it’s good to know about areas such as dissolution and bankruptcy to best equip yourself for how best to wind down your company. It’s like they say in fashion, “one day you’re in, and the next day you’re out.”

Fashion is a seasonal industry, continuously changing. Even if one season you have the best editorial press, it’s no guarantee for financial success. Examples — C. Wonder closing its green doors; Gap closing down its Piperlime division; Kate Spade getting rid of Kate Spade Saturday; and Reed Krakoff suspending operations. So questions that were discussed here — What are the strategic decisions involved when a fashion company considers bankruptcy? How can a fashion house or retailer keep the lights on during reorganization? And does outside investors’ growing involvement with the fashion industry increase the likelihood that an unsuccessful season or 2 will lead to pulling the plug?

Topic — Connectivity: Modeling and the Power of Social Media

Panelists —

Richard Cleland for the Federal Trade Commission
James Conran — Artist and Business Manager
Melissa Wilhelmina Cooper of Wilhelmina Models
Chris Gray for Elite World Group
Coco Rocha — Supermodel & Social Media Pioneer
Wayne Sterling of The Image Management
Moderator — Doreen Small of Marquart and Small

I was vastly impressed with this panel discussion. I mean first of all, Coco Rocha, top supermodel was present! I was in awe to say the least. She is gorgeous and very well-spoken. But all in all, everyone did a great job here, and that’s important since this was such a huge topic. Basically, models are now more than just runway or editorial for magazines. They are individuals who now have put themselves out there, mainly being very active on social media. With that in mind, how have modeling agencies adapted their contracts and altered their lineups? How will FTC regulations affect models who advertise products thru their social media accounts? And how can models, agents, and attorneys work together to balance the competing challenges of legal compliance and furtherance of models’ careers thru the ever-evolving world of social media?

Models are now being looked at with a balance, audience connectivity versus commercial appeal. Then there comes the issues of endorsements, how this impacts a model’s identification, their branding. And with endorsements comes the major issue of FTC compliance. We all recently heard about Lord & Taylor, 50 bloggers donning the same look, a major social media campaign. Everyone of course failed to mention the bloggers were not being paid, and this too can happen if models are promoting products. One has to make sure when promoting a brand or a product that this is made clear, a conspicuous disclosure.

Event Sponsors

Kenyon and Kenyon
Wilhelmina Models
Denton

Special thanks to CFDA, Diane von Furstenberg, Fordham Law School, Gemma Redux, The Judy & Dennis Kenny Foundation, Levi Strauss and Co., Louis Vuitton Malletier, MarkMonitor, Michael O’Malley, and Pentagram

2015 Met Gala — Best Dressed

Posted on May 5, 2015 by SMM

Some went literal. Others went understated. And some just went their own merry route! That is the Met Gala, “aka Met Ball” for you though! This year’s theme was all about Chinese fashion and inspirations. The exhibit was entitled “China: Through the Looking Glass”. So who went thematic and nailed it, and who just looked too amazing I couldn’t help but include them on my Best Dressed list? Find out below!

Kate Hudson

Gold was a hot color of the night, clearly color being not only a trend of the evening, but attempts to tie in with the overall theme. I believe when bold and antique looking as this custom, suntan-hued, stretch tulle Michael Kors dress with an open back and hand-embroidered paillettes, the theme was understated, but it was present. Simply put, Kate looked radiant! She carried an Edie Parker ivory and gold clutch and donned a Lorraine Schwartz headpiece.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Another in gold, but Rosie went sensual, daring, and sexy in this molten Atelier Versace dress with an up-to-there slit and various cutouts.

Coordinating perfectly were her Christian Louboutin Benedetta nude sandal heels.

And she continued to accessorize well with Anita Ko earrings and rings.

Keri Russell

Not enough words to explain how PHENOMENAL this plunging, high-slitted Altuzarra dress is. It’s covered in emerald feathers. And I love all of the colors and textures, very captivating. With her bold look, she coordinated with black strappy Altuzarra sandals, Ana Khouri earrings and a Solange Azagury-Partridge ring.

Jennifer Lopez

This is a gown that looks great from any angle! It’s scaly creature on a flame-licked Versace dress, teamed with a Swarovski clutch and baubles by Sutra, Ivy, Harry Kotlar, and Jack Vartanian.

The whole look is highly intriguing and completely eye-catching!

Bee Shaffer

I’m head over heels for this fully eccentric and eclectic Alexander McQueen custom burgundy embroidered gown. The details are just all so stunning, the floral embroidery, the gorgeous train — I’m in love!

Amal Alamuddin

Amal I don’t think is a die-hard red carpet fan, but she certainly did well for herself here. This red-hot, ruffled, multi-media John Galliano dress for Maison Margiela was a great choice for her. The bodice has an exquisite fit and the overall look is daring, but not over-the-top.

Katie Holmes

Ahhh, isn’t this gown so dreamy! It’s a vision, this navy blue speckled Zac Posen dress with dreamy cloud-shaped embellishments along the hemline.

Katie is too a vision, especially with elegant accessories in that of diamond Chopard jewelry and a luxe Roger Vivier clutch.

And no worries on the new hair alert, as this is just a wig styled by DJ Quintero, using products from Alterna, the haircare company Holmes co-owns.

Selena Gomez

Selena looks stunning in this custom, silk crepe, Vera Wang creation, complete with a V-neck bra top, a plunging open back, and Chinese tassel accents.

And no way can you overlook this mesmerizing floral updo, created by Jake Bailey and Renato Campora for Moroccanoil.

Joan Smalls

My one, totally sexy, daring piece, has to be Joan in this semi-sheer purple lace dress with cutouts and a sheer skirt, which further complimented with Chopard diamonds. This color is so eye-catching, a great choice, and really what a dress — Peter Dundas for Roberto Cavalli.

Her beauty look is just as great, a mix of Pure Color Gelée Powder Eyeshadow in Cyber Magenta and Pure Color Envy Eyeshadow Palette in Currant Desire, from Estee Lauder.

Wendi Murdoch

Co-chair to the event, Wendi is right in the A+ game/lane, with this navy blue Oscar de la Renta fitted gown with gold embellishments adorned throughout the look. For her accessories, she went with a tassled Kotur clutch and Cindy Chao jewelry.

Dianna Agron

This is such a wearable work of art, this ethereal white Tory Burch, one-shoulder, silk chiffon dress that boasted three cranes embroidered on its skirt. Dianna accessorized with a white Tory Burch clutch and emerald Fred Leighton baubles.

Adriana Lima

Lots of special touches are in this deep burgundy Marc Jacobs dress, with a falling starburst design as just one of the highlights. I too love sheer bodice/neckline.

There are some fantastic accessories to compliment this look, ruby red Chopard jewelry and a black Judith Leiber clutch. This bold hair, blunt bangs and luscious waves, is courtesy of Anthony Cristiano Salon, And her sulty makeup is all thanks to Maybelline NY, Morgane Martini, cat eye and ruby red lip.

Lizzy Caplan

This is probably one of my more obviously thematic looks, but nonetheless a must have on my Best Dressed list. This adoring blush-hued, asymmetrical Donna Karan Atelier dress, embellished with gold beading and embroidery is perfection.

She complimented this look well with gold tassel-style earrings by Jack Vartanian, a ruby Carla Amorim ring, and a pearlescent Edie Parker clutch.

Helen Mirren

Helen is a red carpet pro, always such a standout and she doesn’t disappoint in this red lace Dolce & Gabbana dress. She is workin’ this look!

Miranda Kerr

Miranda is proving you don’t have to go all out, full on gowns, to rock the red carpet. I love that she went short, simple, and sweet with this printed Louis Vuitton sheath dress. Dig her accessory choices as well, LV clutch, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and black Giuseppe Zanotti heels.

And for her lovely beauty look, Lisa Storey for makeup & David Keough for hair.

Caroline Trentini

This is a smashing look, sculpted and sensational — a sheer black Versace number.

Kudos to this phenomenal glam squad — Lisa Houghton for makeup, David Colvin for hair, as well as Esther Langham.

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Eddie Redmayne & Hannah Bagshawe

And my one dynamic duo pair, both in Valentino, such a lovely couple, but the looks here, well worthy of best dressed nods. Hannah looks so sophisticated, very classy.

NYLON guys — Events Galore!

Posted on April 7, 2015 by SMM

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

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

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

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

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

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

creating your own t-shirt

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!

Nolcha Fashion Week — Last of the Shows

Posted on March 17, 2015 by SMM

So for the last few shows with Nolcha Fashion Week, there was Prieston, Ann Himsel, and Danny Nguyen Couture. These were some truly captivating and mesmerizing pieces. Check it out! First up, Danny Nguyen Couture.

Danny Nguyen Couture

There are not enough good things I could say about this collection. Each and every piece was stunningly breathtaking. I was mesmerized and enchanted as look after look graced the runway!

As seen above, the colors used in this collection are bold and entrancing, whether whimsical in a mix of blue and purple, or dramatic with fiery red.

This nude floral embellished number above is one of my faves. It captures the essence of this collection — how unique any given look is, stunning floral embellishments, and the like.

You can see in each piece, every detail, all of the time, love, and handiwork that went into each look.

Danny’s vision is that fashion and style are based on the culture and heritage of people in action with each other. And his signature work is with that of couture eveningwear.

Lurid fluorescent light spills over a shadowy figure working deep into the night. Exacting needles, spools of fine thread, and luxuriant fabrics find their way in and around the dexterous hands of this diligent artist. Reckless passion is cast aside and replaced by the brutal will of a true fashion designer. To describe Danny Nguyen’s talents with words would be as futile as identifying infinity with a number.

Prieston

What drama and flare were a part of this Prieston F/W 2015 presentation. The shapes, the structure, this collection was very much wearable works of art. And speaking of hart, several of the pieces made use of a very unique hand-painted bird print — quite captivating!

The Prieston woman is confident, strong, and she likes to show her personality through fashion. Prieston is a brand for urban women in their early 30s, with developing carrier, but they still like to show their feminine side. The brand’s signature is all about experimental and conceptual designs that surprise the audience each season with new styles and unexpected color choices.

The fall-winter 2015 collection was inspired by the strong blondes of Alfred Hitchock. The Birds played an essential role in the design process of the visual elements. Prieston offers high quality clothing for modern women who consciously live in the present.

Ann Himsel

Ann Himsel works with menswear that is made for women, in fact, high end tailored menswear clothing, but it is made to fit women. The show featured men’s boots by Cat Footwear.

These looks embody simplistic minimalism, the focus being on high quality and craftsmanship. The mixed media work is very intriguing, especially the pieces incorporating leather.

Hair for all of the shows was courtesy of Indie Hair, while the bold makeup looks were provided by AOFMPro.

Celebs & special guests in attendance — J.W. Cortes of Gotham; singer Jena Rose; Crezdon Butler of the Detroit Lions; Evette Holyfield; Karreuche Tran.

Show sponsors — Indie Hair, Fogo de Chao, J.R. Ewing Private Reserve, LightSpeed, Don Q rum, Vegan Therapy, & SOLO (one step gel nails).

Show location — Pier 59 Studios, Chelsea Piers
PR — Amp3PR

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