PR Goes Avant Garde-ish?!?

Posted on November 11, 2015 by SMM

The avant garde challenge is always a fave for PR, so did these designers live up to the hype?!? We shall soon find out, but first, let’s break down the details. This season there was a slight addition in that each designer could make use of 3D printing technology to incorporate into their avant garde looks. The designers met Tim to get their instructions.

Tim was joined by Annie Shaw, Creative Director of 3D Systems. The designers would be taking NYC landmarks to life thru the use of the 3D printing technology. The NYC landmarks serving as the inspirations for this challenge were the various bridges of the East river — the Queensboro, Manhattan, and Brooklyn bridges. Kelly as the winner selected first and the button bag determined the fate for the other designers.

Kelly — Brooklyn
Candice — Queensboro
Merline — Queensboro
Edmond — Manhattan
Ashley — Manhattan

The winning designer this week would take home a Cube 3D printer with accessories. During the designers’ sketch time, they worked with a 3d modeling expert to assist in creating a 3D textile. After that, the designers were off to Mood with a budget of $200 to get them going on this 2-day challenge. Day 1 back in the workroom involved a great deal of planning and some watching of the 3D printer doing its work!

As day 2 commenced, the designers were all eager to finally see their 3D textiles. Ashley was quickly in worry mode, wondering if she did enough with pushing her creative bounds with the 3D technology. Later it was Tim-time. Tim was feeling Candice’s passion with her work, also being quite impressed with Edmond. Tim was very concerned though with Merline, wondering what her plan was. And with Kelly, he made sure to tell her let’s not do a Brooklyn bridge costume.

As the day winded down, Ashley was in more worry-mode, thinking of how best to make use of her 3D textiles. All while Merline and Kelly seemed to be having some interesting, amusing convos.

This week’s guest judge was former Spice Girl Mel B.

Shout-out — Love the dark, smoky beauty look, Mary Kay

Kelly was the much-deserved winner this week as her garment was the closest thing to actually being avant-garde. It definitely takes some getting used to, but the more I look at this, I have grown to like it.

I know Mel B. loved Candice’s gown as she offered to wear it. And I too am a fan. It’s definitely sculptural at the bottom, not really all that avant garde, but it is a superbly made, gorgeous gown. Candice too also used her 3d pieces the most creatively and she put the most thought into it. Other designers’ looks were too not avant garde, but they also then let the 3-d aspect fall to the wayside. So I appreciate Candice making an amazing look, but also being so creative with the 3-d printing.

The judges were correct here in noting a disconnect. But I love the polka dot under portion. I think that is very snazzy & chic. I’m again not sure this is at all avant garde and Ashley really didn’t make great use of the 3-D aspect, but I appreciate the work put forth and she put something down the runway that was still fashion forward and trendy.

Edmond’s look was another that was not avant garde. He was clever with the 3-D aspect, but overall, I was underwhelemd here. There was nothing too special here.

Sorry, but I’ve not been a huge Merline fan and after this look, it was definitely her time to go — a little overdue if you ask me. This look was poorly made and there was nothing innovative about it. And then in terms of her 3-D pieces, she created nothing imaginative and then she just placed them to the side of the bodice. There was no thought put forth here.

Best Dressed — 2015 CMA Awards

Posted on November 9, 2015 by SMM

Nashville didn’t disappoint on the 2015 CMA red carpet — lots of glam and sparkle — what a fashionable night!

Kellie Pickler

Kellie looks full on elegant & glam in this deep-V midnight-blue Rubin Singer gown with Open Hearts by Jane Seymour earrings and a Leibish & Co. sapphire ring.

Danielle Bradbery

Danielle is fiercely rockin’ her Oglia-Loro black dress with a sheer, lace-embellished skirt. Her other look details include —

a Swarovski ring,
Make-up by Tarryn Feldman &
styled by Amber Lehman

Cassadee Pope

Cassadee looked radiant in her sheer and golden lace gown by Jean Fares Couture. Her glam squad consisted of Neil Robison. And her stunning earrings were courtesy of Townsend Style.

Kimberly Perry

Kimberly was polished and chic in this all black Anthony Vaccarello dress with an asymmetrical sleeve and intriguing side details along the other side.

Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea, such a beauty, and so beautiful in this champagne tulle-skirt Paolo Sebastian gown with an embellished bodice. To complete her look —

Treesje clutch;
jewelry by Graziela Gems, Nigaam, Casa Reale, and Melissa Kaye
Hair & makeup by Meegen Pearson
Styled by Krista Roser

Trisha Yearwood

Not sure of the designer details here, but Trisha looks gorgeous in this fully embellished and sparkly fitted gown. Such a stunner!

Kelly Fairchild

Another look I’m going without designer details on, but I can’t help but be instantly intrigued with Kelly’s look in this sheer embellished look — golden magnificence!

Lauren Alaina

Lauren Alaina worked the red carpet in her fully embellished Theia gown — such great details and colors!

Maddie Marlow & Tae Dye

Maddie & Tae were golden perfection, both in similarly colored looks, Maddie in a shimmery golden, deep V-neck gown and Tae in a more muted palette, a shorter length dress with an embellished bodice.

Haley Orrantia

Designer details aside, these are some exquisite numbers this year at the CMAs, inclusive of Haley in this royal purple floral cinched waistline gown, so picturesque.

Carrie Underwood

I wasn’t so much of a fan of Carrie’s red carpet look, but her onstage numbers were by far superior. And huge thanks to Almay Cosmetics for providing her with such a stunning beauty look for the night’s festivities.

So above, we have a fresh off of the runway Leanne Marshall gown.

Here, we have a red & pink Rani Zakhem dress, purple Guiseppe Zanotti heels, Anne Sisteron earrings, and a Le Vian ring.

And here, another superb Leanne Marshall gown — love the color!

Jana Kramer & Mike Caussin

I am vastly impressed by how freaking amazing Jana looks, all while being pregnant of course!! I am just so in love with this navy custom Galia Lahav gown and some lovely jewelry by Sutra, Le Vian, and Brumani.

Luke Bryan & Caroline Boyer

Never a dull red carpet moment with these duo, always such a dynamic pair!!

Brett Eldredge

And what best dressed list is complete without a couple of handsome gents to make mention of. Firstly, Brett, who is looking quite dapper in his navy suit, great addition with the bowtie.

Dierks Bentley

We then have Dierks, so handsome in his black ensemble with a grey plaid undershirt, definitely a standout male look for the evening!

What’s Your Hair-O-Scope?!?

Posted on November 8, 2015 by SMM

It is such a treat, when as a blogger, I’m approached to take part in fun topics. Madison Reed, a hair color company that has re-engineered permanent color to give women everywhere a healthier, high performance option at home, has invited Fashion Nexus to take part in discussing Hair-O-Scopes!!

Whether it’s our careers or our love lives, the twelve astrological signs give insight into our individual paths and personalities. Did you know that you can consult the constellations about your hair, too? Based on the traits of the different zodiac signs, Madison Reed has created a unique Hair-o-Scope. And of course the question on everyone’s mind will be, do I agree or disagree with what my sign says about my hair?!?

So as a Virgo, I am characterized as hard-working & practical. So far, yes, 100% in agreement. I definitely consider myself a very hard worker. I always have so much going on and am rarely content with only 1 actual job. I am a legal recruiter, fashion blogger, online magazine editor, and of course, in between, I am always taking on other projects. And yes, practicality is what my life is all about.

My good hair day is apparently sleek & classic. I would definitely at least say my good hair days are when it is frizz-free, but I wouldn’t disagree with sleek & classic. If my hair is looking sleek, it means I have taken the time to get up, straighten my hair, and really letting my long locks be shown. And in terms of classic hair approaches, yes, I do agree as I often style my hair straight, wavy, or up via ponytail or updo.

My brilliant hair tip is to stay true to myself by sticking with a natural looking hue. I have always been a brunette. This has always been my base. I have made use of highlights before, but ultimately, I do agree that a dark brown color is my best color. I have toyed with the idea of maybe another hint of color, but definitely not sure if I am ready!

More additional notes from my Madison Reed Hair-O-Scope — Even the virtuoso Virgo can use some guidance to gain peace of mind. I can amplify my perfectionist nature by keeping things simple, so my wisdom shines through.

Embrace the concept of perfecting the little details by selecting a hue that’s close to your natural hair color with glints of complementary tones. Let your post-shower waves hang loose, even if just for one day to see how you like it. Discover the joy of unplanned beauty! And these are bits of advice I will certainly take with me on my next salon visit — glints of complementary tones & unplanned beauty!

You can too find out about your Hair-O-Scope, but here are a few details on each sign on what your good hair day looks like —

Sagittarius — fashion forward & pretty
Gemini — fashionable & photo ready
Libra — fun & frizz free
Scorpio — free flowing & soft
Taurus — graceful & chic
Aries — sleek & controlled
Pisces — face framing & flattering
Leo — tousled & untamed
Aquarius — voluminous & flowing free
Cancer — soft & smooth
Capricorn — smooth & under control

So after checking your hair-o-scope, do you agree?!?

Here is another little bit of fun from Madison Reed, a quiz, which aides you in finding your perfect hair color!! With just 8 quick questions, you can see which Madison Reed colors are best for your hair. I definitely checked this out for myself, and I have received a range from warm browns such as Venezia or Messina brown to a Palermo or Positano black.

And here is one very fun aspect to this piece, a GIVEAWAY!! Yes, that is right, Fashion Nexus is getting back on track and doling about some free goodies. And what better goodies are there then hair products galore —

Rusk — Freezing spray, texture spray, & paste
Ecru — Luxe treatment shampoo, protective silk conditioner, sunlight styling spray
Oribe — shampoo, conditioner, & sculpting cream
Tresemme — keratin 7 day smooth treatment
Mirror & comb set

All you have to do to enter is comment on this post and let me know if you agree with your hair-o-scope! Make sure to include in your comment your full name & email so I can contact you if you are the winner!! The giveaway will end Sunday, November 25th.

Hope you’ve enjoyed learning about Hair-O-Scopes and my take on mine!!

PR Designers & PR Crew Combine!

Posted on November 3, 2015 by SMM

PR sneaks in every season the challenge where the designers have to design for real women. And by that, it means there model for the week is not a model, but rather your everyday woman. This season was a bit more special in that the real woman makeover would be for members of the PR crew. This would also be a Sally Beauty challenge as Libby Bisanz and Gregory Patterson of Sally Beauty joined Tim to hand down the challenge details. So each designer would have their woman and was responsible for their own look — no blame games! They were to create a look going from workday to runway extraordinary. And the sky was the limit in terms of the direction of the look.

Gregory was on board this week to work with each designer/woman team for their entire makeover effect — new cut & color. So with the details set forth, everyone began with excitement for this 2-day challenge and a budget of $200. The initial excitement soon faded though with Merline in jacket woes, Ashley in tears, and Swapnil back on the smoke train.

As day 2 began it was soon time for not just Tim-time, but also fittings. Tim was quite invested in this challenge because it is the PR crew. Tim advised Kelly she might need more. With Candice, he was seeing oatmeal. Did Edmond have a camel toe issue? But it was Swapnil who was again the center of attention. Tim was over the BS and then dropped the F bomb. While other designers were having issues with their looks, Swapnil was have issues with his look and really working with his model’s needs. Tim ended up telling everyone that they truly needed to rally and they could have another fitting. But even with the 2nd fitting, Swapnil was still having issues.

The morning of, Swapnil was still having troubles and as always, Merline was running around! Guest judges this week were the starts of Lifetime’s new show Unreal, Shiri Appleby & Constance Zimmer.

So my main issue this week, with this challenge, is that I only feel like 1 designer kind of stepped up to the plate here and that was the winner, Kelly. Last week was a disappointment and I don’t think these looks were much better. It seems as if too many designers as of late are resting on their laurels and not really pushing themselves. I know the heavy focus for this was put on Swapnil the past few weeks. But really, quite a few others have too been dropping the ball and I wouldn’t have put all of the heat on Swapnil.

Shout-out — Love the new Sally Beauty do, great job on a clean, natural makeup look by Mary Kay, also great accessories to the look, JustFab

I’m not sure if I could rock Kelly’s look for Ashleigh, but Ashleigh sure does. Kelly created a look that was great looking, but also what her client wanted. It was also still very much Kelly’s voice in the piece, which many other designers were looking.

Shout-outs — another great makeover look from both Sally Beauty & Mary Kay!

I guess a runner-up look this week was Merline’s 3-piece set for Katie. Although runner-up has a little meaning here since the rest were all very so-so. I think it was great Merline did create a jacket because outside of that she made a tank with a slit skirt, not much there! But really the jacket was ok, nothing to stellar. And ultimately, Katie never wanted a jacket. Merline found fortune in that everyone else kind of blew it this week, but I’m still not that impressed with her output this week.

I guess then in the standards of everyone else not stepping up, this meant too that Edmond was either safe or in the top 3, which is utterly odd with his creation for the week. It was just such a yawn and the raincoat and dress had such a disconnect. With Kelly being the winner this week, I see the standard as give your client what they want, make it be exciting, and it should represent your designer aesthetic. It seems as if Edmond pleased Desiree, but again, the look wasn’t exciting and I didn’t see Edmond in the look at all.

To start off the bottom 3, we can then move to Candice. At first glance I didn’t hate this, but upon closer inspection, the positives do start to fade. I do see what the judges are saying in that this kind of crosses a line. It’s not Candice’s best work, although Monique didn’t seem to mind. I think Candice just had a hard time thinking more RTW, just as the last challenge, but also maintaining her voice.

It was kind of clear that Swapnil was going out this week, but I think if the judges had sent 2 designers home, Ashley should have been in the mix. She has had some great looks this season, but she has also put down the runway some not so great ones. And when she is on the not so great line, it really is not great! The most disappointing aspect was this was Ashley’s challenge, among all of the others. She prides herself on designing for plus-sized, everyday women. But to see that this is what she created, it’s like really?? I believe Ashley tries to rely to much on prints, but what makes it worse is then the use of a print in an unimaginative silhouette, such as here, a fitted dress with peplum, woohoo! Poor Nicole!

So yes, this meant that Swapnil was out. My thinking on him is just that PR is not for him. I’ve seen his work pre-PR and it was super stunning. I’ve caught an eye at his decoy collection for the finale and it was too mesmerizing. This to me would never scream Swapnil. But I will say that Jennifer was quite a difficult client. I think any other designer who could have been paired with her would have run into some issues. I’m not sure she was getting the concept of “makeover”, or even that she wanted one. With a makeover, you should seek something special and really collaborate to fulfill a fantasy. Swapnil did get lost here and out of answers as to what Jennifer wanted. Such a shame, but I would be very intrigued to have seen what this girl would have been pleased with that would have been showstopping on a runway!

PR Designers Design for JustFab

Posted on October 31, 2015 by SMM

This week — the RTW, traditional design for the sponsor of our show challenge! More specifically, the designers were asked to create RTW looks that could be reproduced and sold online for JustFab. Tim was joined by Just Fab Fashion Director Yuchin Mao to provide the challenge details. JustFab has various style personas for their customers — Girl Next Door; Bombshell; Trendsetter; Modern Classic; Femme Nouveau. Each designer would be given a persona to design for in order to create a high fashion look that could be sold at an affordable price. In fact, the winning look would be reproduced and sold online!

Last week’s winner, Candice, received the honor then of not only selecting her persona of choice, but the persona for each of the other designers. All were mostly happy!

Candice — Trendsetter
Ashley — Girl Next Door
Swapnil — Bombshell
Kelly — Trendsetter
Laurie — Modern Classic
Merline — Femme Nouveau
Edmond — Bombshell

Everyone was then off to Mood for this 1-day challenge with a budget of only a $100. Ashley had to make some cuts at the register as she was over. And to top it off, she bought the wrong kind of zipper. But during Tim-time, others were a focus, as well as a little surprise!

Tim and Swapnil were not seeing eye to eye. Laurie was asked if she was really putting something new down the runway. And Edmond was being labeled as “basic.” Tim’s little surprise was another small component of the challenge. Each designer would have to create a label to print and wear on a t-shirt for the runway show. They would use the Brother printer to assist with the label-making process.

Swapnil — Swapnil Shinde
Laurie — Wanda Grace
Merline — Provoke Style
Kelly — Rack Addick
Candice — Ccuoco
Edmond — Edmond Newton

Model fittings actually presented a lot of major fit issues, leaving some designers unsure and others to start all over again. The “morning of” was just as crazy as the end of the night. Laurie had so much to do in starting over. Swapnil too had a wrong zipper and so he sewed his model into the dress. Merline even had her model assisting. This week’s guest judges were singer Ciara & Yuchin of JustFab.

Shout-outs — Sally Beauty, such gorgeous, flowing locks; Natural, clean Mary Kay look; perfect JustFab accessories, black clutch & killer heels!

Heidi announced this would be the last immunity given out for the season. Somehow, amidst all of the craziness with judging, Edmond was declared the winner. I’m not sure what really happened here, with the designers, with the judges. But this was pure craziness and chaos. The fact of the matter here is no designer had a great look. Edmond winning was really like the best of the worst. This is not to say Edmond’s dress was bad. I agreed with Heidi in that it’s a great red dress, super sexy, and I’m sure people would buy it. But I also agreed with Nina & Zac. This was just a basic, red dress. There was nothing special to it. I didn’t see Edmond in it. And if I saw it hanging on a Macy’s rack, it would blend in. We’ve seen this before.

Shout-outs — Such a cute hairdo from Sally Beauty and love the beauty look, Mary Kay

If there was a top 3, I guess Ashley would be there. I mean really I think JustFab would have just sold this jacket and called it a day, but the look here in its entirety was just ok. And really Ashley didn’t do much to hype up her look. The back of the crop top was very cute, but we only saw it during the judges up close critiques. The jacket was great, but with a basic crop top & flare skirt, where a so-so print is doing all of the work, how can you get all that excited.

I wouldn’t know who to put as the final member of the top 3. The judges were really all over the place. I guess the safe crowd was Kelly & Candice. I would likely wear Candice’s look over Kellys’ so I will discuss her next. Candice had a few finishing touch issues, which is unlike her. But I think she got bogged down in RTW. I don’t think this is her design forte and so she showed some struggles. She really needed to edit here.

Moving on to Kelly, her look was not bad, but it just wouldn’t be for everyone. This was like Kelly to the max and I don’t think it would fit the JustFab clientele, or at least the masses. This would be for a very specific customer and I think that was a major issue here. And really the pale blue furry vest was not a fave of mine. Nina was for sure not a fan!

But compared to the bottom 3, Kelly’s look was top notch! I’m not sure what Swapnil was thinking here. Firstly, mass production, online, JustFab — that is not this dress. And I’m not sure what the deal was with the outer portion. Did he not get that Edmond’s odd outer vest the week before had not gone over well??

Merline has had some ideas all season, but her construction has been very questionable all season as well. But here, even some okay ideas really weren’t that great. Even if this look was fully executed, I wasn’t seeing a winner. I’d rather Laurie have not been eliminated. For me, Merline has had far too many passes on poorly crafted looks.

Shout-out — Love the accessories, sexy heels & black clutch, JustFab & this chic updo is spot on, Sally Beauty

The week before, Laurie’s look at least had some direction, whereas Lindsey, who was eliminated, went too basic. That was Laurie’s downfall this week. Merline appeared to have had some promise with her look, some ideas, whereas Laurie’s look was far too basic — a halter and pencil skirt — not very imaginative. The top was also sheer, showing some side-boob, which was also an issue for her the week before. With that, Laurie was out.

PR Designers’ Broadway Inspirations

Posted on October 30, 2015 by SMM

This week was all about the magic and glamour of Broadway. The designers were invited to attend the musical, Finding Neverland. And from that visit, the trip, the show, the atmosphere, it was all to serve as an inspiration for each designer to create a look. The designers were joined at the theater by Tim and star of the musical, Matthew Morrison.

So with a “sky is the limit”, 1-day challenge, and a $250 budget, the designers were off to work and to Mood (which oddly enough this season, I feel as if they haven’t been to Mood that much!). Swapnil opted for a smoke/work balance this challenge. Lindsey began her work in fear as she really did not want to land in the bottom again. Merline began her work in doubt as she was drawing a complete blank. Candice came out of the gates strong however, really wanting to own her darkness, to celebrate it and feel hope.

Tim reminded the designers that at this point in the competition, it was anyone’s game, so to remember no one is safe. He urged Swapnil to aim for the win. While others he made sure to remind them to edit. Clearly, the pressure was on!

The morning of was the usual time crunch. A lot of the designers seemed like they could be in trouble! This week’s guest judge was supermodel Coco Rocha.

The top/bottom 3 breakdown made perfect sense here. And of course, by a landslide, Candice was the clear winner. Candice always impresses me with the sheer amount of pieces she can put together in such a short amount of time. And the thing is, I very rarely see any fit or quality issues with the pieces. And to top it all off, she is not just making basic, plain, boring pieces, but rather a look that is uniquely designed and truly showcasing who she is as a designer.

Kelly put out another great, stunning look. I really feel as if she has been a dark horse this season and the other designers better watch out! I’m not sure if I’m completely in love with this look, or at least the pairing of the intricate outer pieces with the LBD. But I know one thing is that it’s hard to take my eyes off of the look! This emerald, sheer, outer piece is just so exquisite. The judges seemed to be a bit split on this as well, but compared to the actual bottom this week, this was top notch!

Shout-outs — Sally Beauty, such gorgeous, wavy hair & Mary Kay, love that bold red lip!

Shout-outs — Sally Beauty, love the updo, Mary Kay, beautiful cat eye & nude lip!

The way I felt about Kelly’s look is similar to how I feel about Edmonds’. I’m not 100% in love with it, but there is still something intriguing about it. Coco was clearly not a fan, but the judges did have some positives to offer. I think the confusing part here is this outer vest — what is it, why did he make it, what is the purpose? Not sure of the answers, but the black pants and top were well made. And the look did need more than just those pieces, so I guess he thought, blob of color maybe??

Swapnil and Merline were definitely deserving of the middle, but still with okay looks. Swapnil’s look had such a disconnect for me. I didn’t love the pairing of slate grey & baby pink. And with Merline, it was very pretty, but felt more like a costume than a wearable look.

Shout-out — Sally Beauty, love the waves!!

Ashley’s look was just a mess and truly, quite disappointing. My issue with this is more so that Ashley can and has done better. But when she misses, she really misses. It’s like, why so inconsistent??

Shout-out — Lovin’ these Sally Beauty hair looks this week!

Laurie has had some highlights for me earlier on this season, but a very slow decline the past week or so. I’m just not sure what happened here. It seems as if there is no direction and the fabric choice, very mind boggling!

Another gorgeous Sally Beauty updo!

But for the judges, they saw at least some design and ideas with Laurie. On the other hand, for Lindsey, it was just not enough. Her look did have a pretty color, but there was not a lot here in terms of design. It was kind of basic. Lindsey’s aesthetic is very minimalist, which is hard to make work on PR. And if you do go the minimalist route, it has to be done so well. That was the case here. So with a few constant bottom placements, Lindsey was sadly out.

ArtsBeat: With Kelsey Grammer Still Away, ‘Neverland’ Finds a New Hook

PR Designers go Dumpster Diving

Posted on October 27, 2015 by SMM

Ok, well not exactly, but they definitely hit up a rather organized looking junkyard for the challenge and were pulling some items out of the dumpsters! This was the 2nd unconventional materials challenge of the season, and this go round, the designers would be working with recycled electronics. Their goal was to merge the worlds of fashion and technology — take yesterday’s technology and turn it into modern fashion.

The designers were joined by Tim at Editor in Chief of Marie Claire, Anne Fulenwilder, who would also serve as one of the guest judges this week. Each designer had 1 shopping car to fill up with wires, old computers, circuit boards, mouse pads, and the like. So after some fun dumpster diving, the designers were back to the workroom to quickly begin on this 1-day challenge.

Work shots began with a montage of past clips where Joseph had been labeled as “matronly”, clearly would be a heavy focus of the episode. However, it was very clear right from the get go that Swapnil was too a heavy focus of the episode and his taking constant breaks to chat, smoke, or eat. PR might as well have called this the “Swapnil hour.” But of course before all of this, Jake asked to speak to Tim privately. He found out that his family pet was not doing well and that his dog needed to be put to sleep, very sad! Jake decided to leave the competition at this point.

The designers were back to work as Tim-time was soon approaching. Tim applauded some, but not all. Swapnil asked about using muslin for his skirt, which of course Tim quickly answered with a resounding “No!” But overall, Tim seemed pleased. Model fittings were next, which brought lots of fit issues and Ashley was in tears.

The morning of the runway was filled with typical chaos. Swapnil decided he would be using muslin, while Edmond was being even more innovative with the challenge and made his own accessory. This week’s other guest judge was Paula Patton.

My top 3 were right in line with the judges. And I guess since Merline couldn’t have been eliminated due to her win last week, I was okay with the bottom 3 as well. However, Heidi has been quick to tell safe designers in the past that they should feel lucky. I’m not sure how Merline escaped that critique. Her look this week was quite sloppy. In fact, the back was open and coming apart to where you could see the model’s underwear. I’m not sure she would have been sent home this week, but a warning I felt would have been justifiable.

I was happy for either Kelly or Ashley to win. But being that this was Kelly’s first win, it seemed more fitting. This look was detailed, intricate, and super luxe looking.

Shout-outs all around — Sally Beauty for sleek chic hair; gorgeous Mary Kay makeup look & love that JustFab clutch!

Shout-out for Ashley, love the metallic silver JustFab pumps!

Ashley was definitely a close 2nd. This look, made with negatives of film, was really inspired, super nostalgic, but really just downright fashionable, fun, and flirty!

Edmond rounded out the judges top 3 and I was fine on this decision. This look was super polished. The front was so sexy, loved the deep V. But the back was too quite intriguing with an intricate detailing of straps.

Laurie & Candice made up the middle of the pack. Laurie’s look was a little all over the place for me. Had Swapnil not used muslin, I think she could have ended up in the bottom. It just seemed a little floppy & messy. Shoutout for her Mary Kay makeup look, gorgeous smoky eye!

I really liked Candice’s look. There was definitely something sexy about it, just very eye-catching, with lots of intricate detailing all over the dress.

Shout-out — Sally Beauty hair, super sweet & chic ponytail!

Lindsey landed in the bottom 3. I don’t think she deserved to go home over this look, so I am happy she didn’t. But I do think her skirt was kind of a throwaway. I liked the top, but clearly way too much time was spent on it and her skirt suffered.

I think it was clear from the Swapnil-centric episode that he would not only be in some trouble, but be at risk of elimination. Of course the main reason he was in jeopardy was because he used muslin. I don’t think the judges really disliked his look. Had the skirt been made of anything else, I believe he would have found himself safe. The top was very sculptural and architectural. This was not Swapnil’s best, but was more or less not great because he didn’t follow the challenge guidelines.

Shout-out for Joseph — Striking updo, Sally Beauty, killer heels, JustFab

This left poor Joseph on the outs, in the bottom yet again. It was really his time to go. His look was not matronly, but it really wasn’t much of anything. It wasn’t too creative or exciting, just very bland.

Project Runway Live Thread

PR Designers Design for Heidi

Posted on October 25, 2015 by SMM

Fashion Week and a crazy month or so has definitely put me behind in terms of recapping these Project Runway episodes. But as I love the show, I am making the time to catch up! So slowly but surely I will catch up!

So going back, this is the episode where I left off. The challenge was to create lingerie for Heidi’s line. The winning look would be reproduced for Heidi’s brand. The designers had lots of lingerie samples to sift thru, but were not expected to replicate, rather use her previous pieces as guidelines to make their own lingerie set. With that, the designers were off to work on this 1-day challenge.

Lindsey had an unfortunate early mishap as her day began. She cut herself, pretty deeply, and had to go to the hospital to get a tetanus shot. Everyone else was of course hard at work, but were they ready for Tim-time??

Tim was of course joined by Heidi as she was the client for this challenge. She certainly had lots to say! Edmond was quickly dubbed as captain tacky. And while Joseph was again labeled as “matronly”, Jake was on the other end of the spectrum with a look that was more junior. Tim reminded the designers that they had a lot of work to do, but first, a quick surprise as Heidi asked the designers to join her on the runway.

Heidi had good news and bad news. The bad — there was a twist! Everyone had to design another piece, a sexy cover-up. The good — they would have more time to work and were even sleeping at the studio — Project Runway sleepover! With that, everyone was off to get into their PJs and get back to work. This was a crazy challenge, very surprising that everyone was having so much difficulty with the time constraints. At 3am everyone was still hard at work, but it was ultimately time for bed.

The morning of proved no differently in terms of work chaos, right from the moment Tim went to awaken the designers. Joseph found some time to help out Jake. And many, namely Blake, pretty much just thru something random together for the cover-up. Time was running out, but it was time for the runway. This week’s guest judge was actress Bella Thorne. Who knew someone that was barely legal could have so much to say about lingerie!!

Candice would have been my winner this week. I am not so shocked that every judge didn’t agree with my pick, but how she didn’t even make top 3 was beyond mind boggling. Her look had the same sexy spirit as the judges’ winning pick in that of Merline. But, for me, Candice’s look was better constructed and would have worked for a more body types & sizes.

Merline still did good work this week and was certainly deserving of some appreciation though. This was a very sexy and very well-designed lingerie set. But I found her loo, especially the top, to be rather limiting on the type of woman who could pull it off.

Hair shoutout — Sally Beauty, gorgeous waves!

To join Candice and Merline, my top 3 would have included Kelly. I thought her looks so different and very unique. I really thought she put forth her designer POV the best.

Heck, even her cover-up was one of the actually designed ones. She put forth great effort and amazing work on this challenge.

Swapnil was in the official top 3. I didn’t dislike his look, but I definitely had some critiques, as did the judges, which was surprising then in how he landed in the top 3. There was certainly a showstopping quality to his top, it was quite eye-catching. But I felt a disconnect between the top & bottom.

Ashley was the final member of the judges’ top 3. Actually she was in competition for the win, so with that, I am glad Merline won. The top here had an odd shape to me. And I really didn’t see anything unique or interesting about the underwear here.

As far as the middle of the bunch, there was Joseph, Edmond, and Lindsey. Joseph’s top was okay, but the bottoms were either not constructed well or they just didn’t look good. Edmond’s look was quite sexy, also love the color choice of royal purple. He did a good job this week as well. Lindsey’s bottoms were a bit on the higher side, but I thought she had a great color combination.

The judges were right to call out Laurie on her high bottoms, but Joseph’s look had some wonky construction issues. I think he was more deserving of the bottom 3 than Laurie. Laurie’s top received a good deal of compliments and this should have at least made her safe. I too thought she had great color choices. But lucky for Laurie she was only in the bottom 3 and not the bottom 2!

There was no way Jake was going home over Blake’s messy disaster this week. Although Jake clearly stuck to most of what he has been this season, boring or severely lacking in originality.

Shout-out — Luscious red locks, great work from the Sally Beauty team

Blake has done some outstanding work this season. If the judges had sent Jake home instead, I wouldn’t have seen much of an injustice. I believe Blake is far more talented than Jake. But sadly, this was the worst look this week and very little could have been done to save Blake.

Shout-outs — Hair, love the waves, Sally Beauty, and great job on the makeup, courtesy of Mary Kay

Art Hearts Fashion, Part 2

Posted on October 23, 2015 by SMM

Art Hearts Fashion was in full swing during NYFW, dominating it with s second day of shows, which wrapped up at the Refectory at the High Line Hotel. Art Hearts Fashion is one event that continues to showcase the strongest designers of the season. After opening day at Grand Central Station, Art Hearts Fashion showcased 7 designers at the High Line Hotel on Tuesday, September 15th.

Singer/songwriter Kelly Saint Patrick entertained guests throughout the night with acoustic performances.

Official Makeup Sponsor The Organic Face™ and Official Hair Care Sponsor Marrakesh worked behind the scenes, bringing to life the artistic vision of each collection. Make Up Teams lead by Head Key Erik Torppe

As a voice for artistic and cutting edge designers, Art Hearts Fashion is paving the way toward the future of Fashion Week. Art Hearts Fashion’s philanthropic drive stretches from coast to coast, putting the spotlight on how fashion can promote constructive ideals and influence the progressive evolution of the fashion industry. Each season, AHF works with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Make-A-Wish. Participating designers can be seen on every major Hollywood celebrity including: Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Nikki Minaj, Rita Ora, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Miley Cyrus, Carrie Underwood, and countless more. The platform is unequivocally intertwined with the causes and organizations it supports.

Special thanks to Art Hearts Fashion sponsors and supporters including: The High Line Hotel, VOSS Events, Monster Energy, Savvy Traveler and Shibue Couture the official undergarment sponsor of Art Hearts Fashion. Art Hearts Fashion is produced by Erik Rosete and ParkerWhitaker Productions.

One Rose

Art Hearts Fashion Founder Erik Rosete opened the 9PM show with the debut of his “One Rose” collection. A sophisticated take on youthful ready-to-wear, this futuristic black and white collection featured creative color blocking, volume skirts, and sleek men’s shorts.

House of Byfield

House of Byfield brought innovative floral splash patterns to menswear this season. Pops of black and teal accented the tailored menswear, while light flowing dresses came alive with purple floral patterns. Men and women’s leather bags by Carat23 brought trench coat looks to a whole new level.

Furne One

Amato Haute Couture by Furne One closed the show with the darkly romantic “Love is a Battlefield” collection. Magnificent dresses of deep hues emblazoned with intricate embellishment stormed the runway. French laces and tulle paired with stretch & acid washed denims for looks that were volumized and full of the designer’s mark of elegance and drama.

Shoes by EMMETT Shoes and Hades Footwear made special appearances in the “Love is a Battlefield” collection by Amato Haute Couture and in the “One Rose” collection by Mister Triple, decadently accentuating the designer’s looks.

Stars Honoured At Fashion Week Event

All That Is Art Hearts Fashion

Posted on October 16, 2015 by SMM

Opening day for prestigious bi-coastal fashion platform Art Hearts Fashion commenced last night with a 5 designer showcase hosted at Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Station, presented by AIDS Healthcare Foundation.

As a voice for artistic and cutting edge designers, Art Hearts Fashion is paving the way toward the future of Fashion Week. The philanthropic drive stretches from coast to coast, putting the spotlight on how fashion can promote constructive ideals and influence the progressive evolution of the fashion industry. Each season, AHF works with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Make-A-Wish. The platform is unequivocally intertwined with the causes and organizations it supports.

Official Makeup Sponsor The Organic Face and Official Hair Care Sponsor Marrakesh worked with designers bringing their visions to life on the runway.

Mister Triple X

Art Hearts Fashion Founder and Designer Erik Rosete opened the show with his Mister Triple X “Vortex” collection. This season Mister Triple X debuted a flirtatious metallic pallet featuring rich body-con dresses, shorts and the designer’s signature bunny ears.

Zachary/Nathaniel

Zachary/Nathaniel was next to the runway, presenting an inspired collection of dark hues, plunging necklines and leather features. Expert draping made for flattering silhouettes in the designs, expertly paired with sheer and leather.

Tarek Sinno

Tarek’s presentation incorporated rich color scheme of blues, reds and golds, accentuating the feminine form with fanciful ornate detailing and unexpected structured features. Striking lines and intricate jeweling elicited excitement from guests and media.

Gregorio Sanchez

This designer enlivened the runway with bright pops of color and fine hand embroidery. This cohesive collection full of bold patterned skirts and romantic tops expressed a natural vibrant energy and movement.

Cary Santiago

Ms. Santiago closed the evening with a jaw dropping collection full of high drama. The cinematic designs are impeccably crafted demonstrating Santiago’s ingenious artistry.

Special thanks to Art Hearts Fashion sponsors and supporters including: VOSS Events, Savvy Traveler, and Monster Energy.

Photographer: John Nacion

Fashion Nexus

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Art Hearts Fashion, Part 2

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