More From NYFW:Men

Posted on February 12, 2016 by SMM

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

SAG Awards 2016 — Best Dressed

Posted on February 6, 2016 by SMM

The 2016 award season marches on with the SAG-AFTRA Awards. There were so many gorgeous dresses, it was definitely hard to narrow down my faves. I picked looks that had that extra something special, a visually stunning quality. So with that, here are my top picks!

Rachel McAdams

Rachel looked mesmerizing in this deeply romantic Elie Saab gown with a Swiss dot base embroidered over sparkling black lace tulips. She paired with her look Harry Kotlar earrings and a Le Vian ring, over $1 million worth of beautiful jewelry!

Priyanka Chopra

What an eye-catching look for Priyanka! She is wearing a lacy Monique Lhuillier gown with bursts of hot pink and tons of nude tulle for the skirt portion. Completing her look, lavish Kimberly McDonald jewelry.

Alicia Vikander

A dress in full on sequin mode can go wrong if not done exquisitely. This sleek sequin patchwork-print Louis Vuitton gown that Alicia is donning was spot-on perfection! She was actually head to toe in LV, both with her heels & jewelry.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah in this dazzling black Michael Costello gown really does look like a QUEEN! She completed her look with the following accessories —

Fred Leighton jewelry
Bavna earrings, and
a Rauwolf clutch

Kiernan Shipka

Kiernan looks radiant in this plum purple floral-printed Erdem own. For jewelry, she went with both Dana Rebecca Designs earrings and a Irene Neuwirth ring.

Giuliana Rancic

Giuliana’s teacup length Gauri & Nainika black, floral-printed dress looked like a work of art. Her other look details included —

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse looks quite elegant in this pale pink embroidered Michael Kors Collection gown. To top off her look, luxe Forevermark diamond earrings.

Maisie Williams

I’m not getting black swan from Maisie, but I am getting a blue swan vibe! She is wearing a cobalt blue, midi Ermanno Scervino dress. Other look details were inclusive of —

Nicholas Kirkwood metallic heels
Jimmy Choo clutch
Makeup by Kindra Mann
Hair by Bryce Scarlett

Lily Rabe

Lily looks visionary in her Lela Rose gown with a yellow floral print over a textured lavender-gray skirt. She completed her look with —

Lorraine Schwartz gems and
a Lee Savage clutch.

Sarah Hyland

Sarah looks glorious in this royal blue J. Mendel gown with a lace overlay at the bodice. She paired with her look —

Giuseppe Zanotti Design heels
Lorraine Schwartz and Ofira jewelry

Nicole Kidman

I will admit, this multicolored Gucci dress that Nicole is rockin’ definitely gives off a bit of a cartoonish vibe. But there is something about the look that is so captivating! She paired with her look, Fred Leighton jewelry.

Kate Winslet

Kate is superb and top-notch in this custom Giorgio Armani forest-green gown with black detailing on the notched neckline. And adding the extra sparkle & shine to her look, Neil Lane drop jewels.

Annie Parisse

Not sure of any of the details for Annie’s look, but she looks magnificent in this printed fitted gown.

Claire Danes

Claire went in the right direction with this 2-toned, midnight-and-sky Stella McCartney gown with Tiffany & Co. jewels.

Christian Bale

Christian is lookin’ mighty fine in all black, a Dolce & Gabbana suit.

Critics Choice & UNICEF — Best Dressed

Posted on January 18, 2016 by SMM

So early in 2016, but already so many major red carpets. And with that, this of course means the red carpet fashion is already at high level and high impact! The Golden Globes was such a high note, but I was very impressed with both the 2016 Critics’ Choice Awards and the UNICEF ball. Here is my Best Dressed list stemming from those 2 events!

Kate Beckinsale

Kate is always an A++ on the red carpet, and certainly not failing in this icy silver Monique Lhullier gown. Paired with her look are statement making Butani chandelier earrings.

Cara Santana

Cara looks like a winter ice goddess or snow queen — something to that effect! This is just such a mesmerizing and breathtaking look! Look details are —

January Jones

There is something about this ice blue, printed Altuzarra dress that I could not take my eyes off of it — so stunning! Such a great look for January! Her other look details were inclusive of —

ivory Bionda Castana heels
Makeup by Lauren Andersen
Hair by Bridget Brager

Helen Mirren

Helen never fails to look like royalty on the red carpet. She looks luxurious in this floral printed, black & white, Dolce & Gabbana dress, complimented with Kwiat jewelry.

Portia Doubleday

This is just such an eye-catching and intriguing dress for Portia, it’s quite captivating — sheer print overlay Novis dress with a blue Farbod Barsum clutch.

Leslie Mann

Leslie just looks super girly and fresh in this Monique Lhuillier dress — love the tutu skirt! Complimenting her look —

black Christian Louboutin heels
matching Amanda Pearl clutch
Borgioni jewelry

Angie Harmon

Not sure of the designer details for Angie and this boldly red frock, but regardless, she looks breathtaking, very remarkable gown!

Hayden Panettiere

Hayden looks refreshed and super amazing in this nude Maria Lucia Hohan dress. Paired with her look —

a Monica Rich Kosann clutch
Neil Lane jewelry

Yael Grobglas

Very minimalist, but a supremely gorgeous look for Yael. She is wearing a creme Black Halo Eve gown. Her other look details are as follows —

Krysten Ritter

Krysten looks ravishing in this couture marsala gown by Zuhair Murad. Paired with her look are —

a Jimmy Choo clutch
H. Stern earrings

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

All black, all great for Rosie in this very sexy, yet elegant choice — YSL. Other look details include —

Anita Ko earrings
Hair by Christian Wood
Makeup by Kate Lee
nails by Ashlie Johnson

Saoirse Ronan

Ice blue is a fave color of mine and Saoirse looks radiant in this choice — Antonio Berardi. She paired with her look a lovely pair of Stephen Webster earrings.

Amy Schumer

Amy looked so beautiful in this all white, minimalist look by Calvin Klein. Her other looks details were inclusive of —

Barneys clutch
Stylist — Leesa Evans
Hair by Kimberly Gueldner
Makeup by Andrea Tiller
Nails by Deborah Lippman

Emmy Rossum

Emmy looks classy and elegant, magically understated in this Dior black dress with a sequin panel inset. Coordinating with her look —

metallic Lee Savage clutch
matching Jimmy Choo heels

2016 Golden Globes AfterParties — Best Dressed

Posted on January 14, 2016 by SMM

After such a stunning initial red carpet review for the 2016 Golden Globes, it’s hard to imagine there were even more gorgeous looks that evening! But alas, at the various afterparties of the evening, namely the InStyle and Warner Bros. event, there were indeed plenty more looks deserving of a Best Dressed nod!

Nikki Reed & Ian Somerhalder

Nikki looked like a golden goddess in this intricately detailed Naeem Khan gown. Her other marvelous look details included —

Monique Lhuillier clutch
Bavna earrings
Graziela Gems ring

Ian kept it classy and debonair in a classic black Dior tuxe. His other look details included —

John Varvatos shoes
John Hardy cufflinks

Victoria Justice

Red hot! Wow, love, love this stunning fiery red Bao Tranchi gown that Victoria is wearing. Great choice! She also rocked —

Swarovski jewels
Stylist — Madison Guest
Hair & Makeup by Lusine Galadjian

Vanessa Hudgens

There is nothing negative I can say about this mesmerizing CD Greene gown that Vanessa is wearing. It has so many interesting facets and she looks so beautiful. Her other look details were inclusive of —

a silver Oroton clutch
jewelry from Eva Fehren, Graziela Gems, Nigaam, Effy & Djula
Styled by Natalie Saidi
Makeup by Karan Mitchell

Halston Sage

Halston looked radiant in this fully embellished, golden Michael Kors gown. Her other style details are —

Beauty by Thuy Pham
Styled by Jill & Jordan
Hair by Craig Gangi

Lea Michele

Lea always looks beautiful, but especially so in this lovely minimalist, all-white Michael Kors gown. Full look details are as follows —

Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
Makeup by Lauren Andersen
Nails by Pilar Noire
Hair by John D.
Styled by Brad Goreski

Amanda Crew

I am a huge fan of Yanina Couture, so of course I had to include Amanda as she is donning one of there glorious creations! To complete her look —

Norman Silverman & Graziela Gems jewelry
nude Amanda Pearl clutch
Makeup by Bleu
Hair by Sarah Potempa
Styled by Jessica Paster

Alexandra Daddario

Gold & shimmery are definitely a trend on my Best Dressed list. And Alexandra is right there in this amazing Reem Acra gown. Complimenting here look are some lovely pieces of Buccellati jewelry.

Alyssa Milano

Alyssa looks remarkable in this fitted marsala Zac Posen dress. Complimenting her look are —

Earrings from James Robinson Inc.
Hair & Makeup by Rad Stella

Jamie Chung

Hard to go wrong in black & white! Jamie looks great in this gorgeous number. To top off her look —

Styling by Judy Style XO
Makeup by Daniel Marrone & Kira Nasrat with Make Up Forever

Olivia Holt

Olivia looks like a living doll in this bold fuscia Marchesa gown, with lovely details around the neckline. She paired with her look some stunning pieces of Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.

Rumer Willis

Rumer went super sexy in this immaculate white gown by Michael Costello — what a knockout! Paired with her look, beautiful Parade earrings.

Sarah Hyland

Sarah went the minimalist route, but looks effortless and elegant in this black Amanda Wakeley gown. And no other to better add some needed sparkled to this all black look than Lorraine Schwartz.

Becca Tobin

Not sure of the designer details for Becca, but this is a great look for her. She looks ravishing and is really working this bronzed look!

Katharine McPhee

What an enticing detail this dress offers! Katharine picked it right with this Badgley Mischka dress — intriguing design and perfection with the cutouts. Other look details —

Lorraine Schwartz earrings
Ofira rings

Cara Santana & Jesse Metcalfe

This is a very dynamic red carpet pair. They are knocking it out of the park with this pale palette. Jesse is looking good as ever in his Maison Martin Margiela suit. And Cara too looks very foxy in this Thai Nguyen look. Her look was styled by Annabelle Harron.

Paul Wesley

Paul is looking very handsome in this all black Theory suit.

Jussie Smollett

Jussie opted for a traditional black tuxe by Calvin Klein. Grooming was by Nil Muir Beauty.

Trai Byers

Golden Globes 2016 — Best Dressed

Posted on January 11, 2016 by SMM

So many stunning dresses to choose from! I was vastly impressed by this red carpet lineup for the 2016 Golden Globes. Check out my Best Dressed contenders below!!

Amber Heard

Amber looks flawless in this rose hue Gucci gown with a floral neckline. Her other radiant look details include —

makeup artist Melanie Inglessis using Kevyn Aucoin, The Creamy Glow in Pravella just on the apples of the cheeks

Jaimie Alexander

Instantly eye-catching is Jaimie in this deep emerald green Genny gown. Her other look details color-coordinated nicely —

Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
Makeup artist Jeffrey Paul also tight-lined her eyes for extra impact using a special brush for that purpose: the IT Cosmetics Tightliner Dual-Ended Brush. But also made use of a few other cosmetic brands to complete her beauty look — Hourglass cosmetics, Kat von D, Marc Jacobs beauty, Laura Mercier & Nars
Hair by Andrew Fitzsimons

Jennifer Lawrence

J. Law was red hot in this Dior number, complete with side cutouts. Other look details were inclusive of —

a Chopard choker
clean, fresh makeup (by Jillian Dempsey) and
a side-parted updo (by Jenny Cho)

Amy Adams

Amy was too in the crimson wavelength, her choice though, a striking Atelier Versace fitted gown. Other look details included —

Neil Lane jewelry
Hairstylist Laini Reeves made sure her waves would last by prepping her locks with Pai-Shau’s Royal Abundance Mousse.

Felicity Huffman

Felicity was full on glam & elegance in this shimmering marsala Lorena Sarbu dress. She paired with her look, stunning Martin Katz diamons.

Sarah Hay

Sarah looked ethereal in this mesmerizing Marchesa gown. The details on this dress were so beautiful! And to add just a tad more sparkle, Chopard diamonds.

Jane Wu

Jane was evoking such strength and confidence in this full on metallic look by Theia.

Carly Chaikin

There is just something about this gown that I can’t take my eyes off of — the color scheme, the fabric — it’s just all so captivating. Carly is donning a Juan Carlos Obando look. And her other look details are —

Coomi jewelry and
a black Rodo clutch

Jenna Dewan Tatum

Jenna looks amazing in fully embellished, midnight blue Zuhair Murad gown. Her other coordinating details included —

Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
makeup artist Patrick Ta working for Burt’s Bees
Hairstylist Jen Atkin
Brad Goreski — styling

Rooney Mara

Rooney went with a softer side of Alexander McQueen and I love it! To top off this fabulous look —

Fred Leighton jewelry

The hairstyle Adir Abergel gave Rooney Mara made us back into braids all over again,
and oh those dramatic lashes and brows (credit goes to makeup artist Kate Lee).

Olivia Wilde

Olivia went with last year’s hue for Pantone Color of the Year, a shimmering Michael Kors Marsala. Complimenting her look —

Bulgari accessories
To get the Revlon ambassador’s look (makeup artist Jo Baker ), use the ColorStay 16 Hour Eye Shadow Quad in Decadent.
And we have to give a shout-out to stylist Mara Roszak for nailing the half-wavy blowout we all want now.

Ana de la Reguera

I am not sure who Ana is, but this is A+ red carpet styling. She is wearing a deep purple, fully embellished, Carolina Herrera gown. Additional look details —

Jonathan Lule for hair & makeup
Styling by Aldo Rendon
Daniela Villegas Jewelry

Barbara Meier

Every red carpet needs a princess feel, a bit of fantasy, and that is what I get from Barbara’s Cinderella blue Georges Hobeika ballgown. It’s extremely magical and I’m sure she felt like a princess all night!

Heidi Klum

Heidi went fringe-tastic in this metallic Marchesa look. Other look details were as follows —

Lorraine Schwartz jewels
matching Stuart Weitzman heels
Makeup by Linda Hay
Hair by Danilo
Nails by Tom Bachik

Kate Hudson

Kate was ab-tastic and super sexy in this shimmery molten, 2-piece, Michael Kors look. To add additional sparkle to her look —

Eva Green

Eva too rocked a molten, golden look, but her choice was a little more on the lacy side, a gorgeous Elie Saab Haute Couture creation — high neck embroidered tulle and lace gown with an open back and gold chain detail paired with a matching belt. Her makeup artist for the evening was the official and talented Charlotte Tilbury.

Kate Bosworth

Kate was sparkling from head to toe in this faded crimson Dolce & Gabbana gown — very rich & luxurious! Her other look details included —

Norman Silverman Diamonds

makeup artist Pati Dubroff thought of “fireworks, disco balls and icy landscapes”, so she gave her metallic, icy-white eyes offset by soft-pink cheeks and lips. Two colors were used: Laura Mercier Velour Lovers Lip Colour in Coquette as a base, with Laura Mercier Lip Parfait Colourbalm in Raspberry Ripple on top.
Hair by Bridget Brager
Skincare regime by Touch of Faith Aesthetics by Faith Tatro

Sophia Bush

Sophia went with a black dress, but it was simplistic minimalism at it’s best — a stunning Narcisco Rodriguez gown. And to complete her look —

Martin Katz necklace;
Rauwolf clutch
Nars lip color

Lily James

Lily was another ethereal look for the evening, her choice, a multi & lightly hued Marchesa gown — soft mint, dusty blue, and light purple Grecian hand-draped tulle gown with over-the-shoulder cape detail. Her other radiant look details included —

Harry Winston jewelry
Hairstylist Ashley Streicher and her sister makeup artist Jenn Streicher — use of St. Tropez Tan; Charlotte Tilbury makeup; Show hairspray

Helen Mirren

Not sure of Helen’s designer look details, but I do know she wore a few lovely pieces of Harry Winston jewelry!

Maria Menounos

Maria is always a stunner, this time in a slate, fitted Roland Mouret dress. To finish her look —

Laverne Cox

Laverne was dressed all in white, and she looked fantabulous! She is wearing Elizabeth Kennedy. Her other look details are as follows —

Bryce Dallas Howard

Amazed that Bryce actually picked up her beautiful navy blue Jenny Packham gown at Neiman Marcus. With shopping skills like this, who needs the one on one designer bookings! Other look details —

stick-straight, low-maintenance cut by Jenny Cho for Suave
coordinating Kotur clutch
Irene Neuwirth jewels

Terrence Howard & Mira Pak

Not sure of all the designer details for this stunning duo, but Terrence is rockin’ some Louis Leeman shoes!

Leonardo DiCaprio

Leo is decked out in a full Giorgio Armani traditional black tuxe, with black Jimmy Choo shoes.

Michael B. Jordan

And to complete my list, the handsome Michael B., in head to toe Dior Homme with a Piaget watch.

2016 PCAs — Best Dressed

Posted on January 8, 2016 by SMM

2016 is here and we already have the first major red carpet of the season, the 2016 People’s Choice Awards! The Golden Globes are too quickly approaching, but here is my first Best Dressed list for 2016, ENJOY!

Shay Mitchell

Shay slays! Look details —

black halter Haney gown with a sky-high slit and sexy hip detailing
accessorized with metallic Giuseppe Zanotti sandals & a Kotur clutch
bold makeup look my Mary Phillips
chic sleek do by Chris Appleton
Overall styling by Bartoli Style

Priyanka Chopra

A shining star is Priyanka, wearing —

a sparkling Vera Wang midi
metallic Jimmy Choo shoes
jewelry by Anita Ko and H. Stern
NARS beauty for makeup

Ming-Na Wen

Ming-na looks effortlessly gorgeous in this chic look. Here are the details —

KISS nails by Impress Manicure
Erica Courtney Jewels
Mark Zunino crimson floral dress
Le Silla black heels from Brooklyn PR (LA)
Swarovski clutch from Film Fashion PR
Makeup & Hair by Terria Beauty & Chaz Dean, assistance by Austin Kunau

Rene Olstead

Rene is killing it in this Stello mini! Here are the rest of her look details —

Styling by Ali Levine
Lipstick — Gerard Cosmetics, Peachy Keen
Earrings — Kristen Baird
Black Ring — Halo & Co

Lucy Hale

Lucy looks radiant and sassy in this Self Portrait dress! Other look details include —

her lipstick is mark. Lipclick matte formula in Vixen
Brian Atwood black heels
black Lee Savage clutch
Rachel Zoe styling team

Troian Bellisario

I am in love with this Caterina Gatta dress for Troian — definitely something refreshing & different to see on the red carpet! Her other look details are inclusive of —

a metallic Benedetta Bruzziches clutch
Vita Fede jewels

Kat Graham

Kat looks super chic & sexy in this black & nude David Koma look. Accessory details include —

AS29 jewels and
a black Lee Savage clutch

Katherine McNamara

Katherine looks heavenly & angelic in this white lace Olcay Gulsen Collection dress. For jewelry, she went with Rock and Gems.

Maddie Ziegler

Maddie looks like pure perfection in this sleeveless cutout Michael Costello dress. To compliment her look —

pale pink Dior heels
Jennifer Meyer baubles and
a purple geometric clutch by Benedetta Bruzziches

Maggie Lawson

Maggie definitely rocked this all white look! To complete the effect, she donned —

a matching white Jeffrey Levinson clutch
Randall Scott jewelry
black Alexandre Birman heels

Shelley Hennig

Shelley popped on the red carpet in this striking blue Gomez-Gracia jumpsuit with a crisscross neckline. To further escalate the look, she donned —

Phillips House earrings
Rene Caovilla shoes
styled by Hayley Atkin
hair by Christian Wood
makeup by Kirin Bhatty

Sarah Drew

This is just such a different look. It definitely caught my attention and I’m a fan. Great job by Sarah and her team for going with this stunning Self Portrait mixed media dress! Other look details —

Hair & Makeup by Doriteg Nizzani
Styling by Camilla Luddington

Abigail Spencer

Abigail went a little more formal, but this is nonetheless a beautiful look — a crimson Alexia Maria minidress and convertible skirt with a peekaboo hem. To top off her look —

black Stuart Weitzman heels
matching crimson Edie Parker clutch

Adam Devine & Chloe Bridges

What a dynamic duo! Chloe looked super fierce, chic hair look by Darbie Wierczorek of Matrix. And for her look, complimentary Forevermark diamonds. Adam’s dapper all-black suit was styled by Mercedes Natalia.

Shawn Mendes

And not sure of Shawn’s casual, yet sophisticated look, but all in all, definitely Best Dressed gent of the evening!

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!

Fashion Nexus

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

Tag Archives: Fashion Nexus

More From NYFW:Men

NYFW:Men — A Few of My Faves!!

NYMD — Part 2

NYMD — Part 1

SAG Awards 2016 — Best Dressed

Critics Choice & UNICEF — Best Dressed

2016 Golden Globes AfterParties — Best Dressed

Golden Globes 2016 — Best Dressed

2016 PCAs — Best Dressed

My Fave Fashion Nexus Posts of 2015

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

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And to complete my list, Trai is looking mighty fine in this bold maroon tuxe. Hard to rock such a boldly colored suit, but he does!

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