Francesca Liberatore’s Modern Super Hero

463791578.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

463791794.jpg_537_0_2743.56716418_4928

Francesca Liberatore’s F/W 2015 presentation was mixed media magic. She presented at MBFW, Lincoln Center, the Salon.

463791598.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

463791706.jpg_366_0_1873.1641791_3366

The collection was inspired by superheroes. And this was quite apparent from the fighting trojan to the samurai to the shield-like accessories.

463790722.jpg_363_0_1858.52238806_3340

463791108.jpg_401_0_2050.10447761_3683

There was a lot of base black, but for vibrant pops of color there was bright red, royal blue, metallic silver, and sunshine yellow.

463791148.jpg_363_0_1853.14925373_3328

463791180.jpg_327_0_1670.28358209_3000

I appreciated the great use of various types of fabric, from fur to leather to silk. The pieces looked well made, and incorporated intricate, eye-catching details.

463791202.jpg_327_0_1670.28358209_3000

463791432.jpg_537_0_2743.56716418_4928

Celebs & special guests in attendance — DJ Helena & Nervo Music

463791620.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

463793800.jpg_537_0_2743.56716418_4928

Show credits —

463791716.jpg_391_0_1997.56716418_3588

463791504.jpg_327_0_1670.28358209_3000

463791514.jpg_361_0_1844.88059701_3314

“There’s no mascara because we want a kind of toughness.”

Fatima Thomas, Senior Artist for MAC, led the team to create the only look we witnessed this season without mascara (!!). Thomas told us that in terms of products and colors, the look was relatively minimalist – really only using colors for shaping and contouring purposes (enter: MAC Creme Colour Base, used to match and accentuate models’ natural skin tones), particularly around the eyes, which Thomas described as resulting in an “aerodynamic” feel. Not only did lashes go without mascara, but they were left untouched – aka no curling. Thomas emphasized that they didn’t want the lashes to make any noise – the look was all about the strength and shape of the eye.

  • Hair — Jorge Luis for Cutler, Redken products — superhero braids they created that swept across the crown and draped down at the back. The look was at once collected and powerful but still flirty, with the braids adding an element of femininity.

463793176.jpg_0_0_4901_3267.33333333

463791538.jpg_373_0_1906.13432836_3424

463791534.jpg_537_0_2743.56716418_4928

  • Nails — Patricia Yankee — The team started by applying Pattie’s Support Base Coat, followed by creating a rounded, silver edged French manicure with Patricia Yankee Nail Lacquer Polish in Divinity. Pattie dished to us that in the theme of superheros, she decided to hole punch small stars out of Dashing Diva Color Effects Appliques. Stars were placed in the middle of the index fingernail and varied in color from blue or red depending on the model. The look was finished off with Patricia Yankee’s “Protect” Top Coat.
  • Shoes — Repetto & Yin
  • Additional thanks — sagafurs & puntoseta

463793026.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

463791596.jpg_537_0_2743.56716418_4928

463791708.jpg_380_0_1947.1641791_3500

463791172.jpg_3_0_3450_2298

 

Epson Presents Digital Couture for Fall 2015

My 1st day of NYFW was all about Epson’s fashion extravaganza – 33 looks, 11 designers, fusing technology with fashion. The presentation featured new cutting edge fabric printing and design technology donated by the global leader in image printing technology, Epson. Fashion designer and Project Runway season 9 alum Kimberly Goldson hosted the event alongside Epson.

DSC00880

ESOSA

DSC00891

Maggie Barry

The two-hour presentation was held at Industria Superstudios, displaying interactive design interface monitors, a special art projection installation, and a LiquiFusionIV vitamin drip bar, alongside new digital techniques for fabric printing and pattern making from Epson’s SureColor F-Series printers (the latest in a line of digital dye-sublimation printers for textiles).

DSC00881

ESOSA

DSC00892

Pineda Covalin

Designers hailed from both the US and Latin America — Pilar Briceño of Colombia, Dual of Costa Rica, Ay Not Dead of Argentina, Moah Saldaña of Peru, Marco Antonio Farías of Chile, Elisa Guillén of Ecuador, Pineda Covalin of Mexico, ESOSA of the US East Coast, Mariana Morrell of Brazil, Leonor Silva of the Caribbean (Venezuela/Miami), and Maggie Barry of California.

Screen-Shot-2015-02-18-at-12.22.07-PM

DSC00882

ESOSA

Epson used this event to show the world just some of the possibilities of its new Epson SureColor F-Series printer. According to its press release, the “F” stands for Fashion Forward. Now more than ever fashion designers are using computer technology to assist with the creation of their garments. Each designer contributed three outfits of mostly womenswear with some menswear, using the Epson printer to print the colors and patterns right onto the fabrics.

DSC00885

Ay Not Dead

DSC00893

Marc Antonio Farias

According to Alejandro Ordonez, Epson regional marketing and communications manager of Latin America, this product reinvents the dye-sublimation by introducing digital printing of images which dry instantly for quick transfer directly onto fabric. That allows designers to do test runs and produce samples in-house with the click of a mouse.

DSC00894

Moah Saldana

Special celeb guests in attendance included The Misshapes, Analeigh Tipton (Mississippi Grind), Jessica Stroup (The Following), Lilla Crawford (Into the Woods), Julie Henderson (Sports Illustrated), Kira Dikhtyar (ANTM), and Cory Kennedy.

Screen-Shot-2015-02-18-at-12.21.37-PM   Screen-Shot-2015-02-18-at-12.22.00-PM    Screen-Shot-2015-02-18-at-12.22.17-PM

DSC00889

Leonor Silva

DSC00890

Dual

 

 

 

Leanne Marshall — Modern, Breathtaking Beauty

463797392.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

DSC01103

Forest green silk wool tank gown with hand painted ivory silk organza skirt

In Leanne’s own words — “This was a dream come true!” There is likely no better way to describe the debut presentation for Leanne Marshall at MBFW, Lincoln Center than her own words. Presenting for her first time at Lincoln Center, The Pavilion, I’m sure was nothing short of a dream come true, an unimaginable experience! Leanne’s show was my 1st ever, and I’m happy I was able to be at her 1st showing at Lincoln Center, a very momentous and memorable occasion.

1898100_10205657773025206_8846555794783717537_n

Ruby silk chiffon gown, plunging neckline, hand painted silk ivory organza detail

10990814_10205652801460920_5160612602667952752_n

463796560.jpg_482_0_2451.70149254_4399

Forest green silk wool empire waist gown with silk chiffon draping

463796568.jpg_498_0_2536.65671642_4553

Tea length white double crepe wool skirt with sheer black chiffon blouse

For her A/W 2015 collection, Leanne was inspired by director Francois Truffaut’s 1975 tragic film story, The Story of Adele H. The film was based on memoirs of Adele Hugo, daughter of Victor Hugo. It follows a young woman across the globe as she pursues the love of a man who doesn’t return her affections. As this man continuously rejects her, love turns into obsession, which slowly drives her insane.

463796572.jpg_488_0_2485.01492537_4460

Sheer black organza silk arapea short dress

463796578.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

463797210.jpg_493_0_2507.92537313_4500

Hand painted ivory silk organza gown with forest green asymmetrical velvet detail

463797216.jpg_459_0_2335.11940299_4190

Hand painted sheer silk ivory organza dress with draped details

Staying true to the film, this collection is segmented into 4 sections.

Le Voyage — The Voyage

The woman is making her passage, journeying for love. She is full of dreams, that the love she awaits for will to be waiting in return for her. The color palette here is black, with pops of olive green and gold. I can see a free-flowing vibe here with the silhouettes though, suggesting hope, openness. A woman here is carefree, unbeknownst of any negativity or trouble around her.

10172828_10205694596665774_2779124527311710700_n

La Chasse de l’amour — Love’s Chase

Next, the woman is actively pursuing her love. She will stop at nothing to win the affection of her dream lover, even if he says no. The color palette her is deep, emerald greens mixed with taupe and ivory. We also get to first experience some lovely dye treatment from Leanne. The theme here is pursuit and what I’m seeing is a mix of purity, lots of white, representing this woman’s pure, clear vision of her love. But some of the pieces, the ones working with dye, show that this vision, upon closer inspection, is clearly a bit muddled. The woman’s vision is blurred.

11043084_10205709447717041_1567854674836233269_n

La Obsession — The Obsession

Love turns to obsession. She can think of nothing but one man and her determination to have him. As she is haunted, day in and day out, her grip on reality loosens. There is a lot of red and deep burgundy in these pieces, clearly representing a lustful, passionate love. The silhouettes are very loose, not as pulled together, showing a woman who is in shambles.

463797412.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

DSC01139

DSC01140

463797356.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

Handpainted burlywood and wine silk chiffon gown with spaghetti straps & asymmetrical draping

463799772.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

Rust silk chiffon gown with spaghetti straps & draping

463799768.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

Sheer rust silk chiffon tank gown

La Demence — Madness

For this woman, all logic and reason is now gone, leaving her a total mess and in tears. Thus, her descent to madness begins. There is still such a beauty to these pieces, but structure and form are not by the book. Colors are void, very deep and dark.

463797252.jpg_504_0_2569.07462687_4612

Sheer navy long sleeve silk organza gown with textured skirt

463797276.jpg_517_0_2631.32835821_4722

Navy silk wool strapless gown with hand-painted textured silk organza skirt

463797278.jpg_469_0_2387.20895522_4284

White & navy silk organza gown with asymmetrical hand painted bodice detail

463797280.jpg_485_0_2470.37313433_4434

Navy blue long sleeve silk sheer chiffon gown

463797358.jpg_537_0_2732.37313433_4903

Strapless navy blue gown with silk chiffon organza skirt

I am in love with this collection. Her work with hand-painting and dye treatments have created pure magic in these pieces. You can see this crazed woman represented in these pieces, yet there is still elegance and glamor. The pieces here are truly stunning, very eye-catching, and I love that there is such a focused story here. Leanne presented 2 collections this season, a RTW, and more upscale as seen here. With so much work on her plate, she clearly could have let some pieces slip, but she has not done that. She has stuck to her high quality, ethereal signature, but has still evolved and created some very modern pieces. CONGRATS LEANNE!

463797234.jpg_475_0_2415.59701493_4334

463797248.jpg_511_0_2601.14925373_4668

Silk ivory chiffon gown

463797260.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

463797266.jpg_561_0_2704.88059701_4788

Taupe, ivory, rust silk chiffon organza gown

Celebs & special guests in attendance — Nervo music/Nervo sisters, Kira Dikhtyar, Andrew Werner, Jason Christopher Peters, DJ Helena, Lily Lane

463796080.jpg_585_0_2978.73134328_5346   463796116.jpg_512_0_2607.07462687_4679  463796244.jpg_544_0_2768.92537313_4969

463796396.jpg_537_0_2734.6119403_4908  463796586.jpg_539_0_2742.88059701_4922

Show credits —

463797270.jpg_462_0_2355.13432836_4228

Ivory silk chiffon organza gown with asymmetrical hand painted bodice

1010135_10205644827381573_6144023715940932710_n

10982486_10205688545514499_1554438387442129366_n

463796720.jpg_0_0_5191_3460.66666667    463796732.jpg_0_0_5257_3504.66666667

10987621_10205647267842583_9100561096549669636_n

463797226.jpg_0_0_5521.5_3681    463797804.jpg_605_0_3080.67164179_5529 

463796966.jpg_0_126_4332_3014

463796138.jpg_630_0_3209.10447761_5760         463796158.jpg_608_0_3094.86567164_5554

463797452.jpg_0_0_5520_3680

463797342.jpg_1_0_5590_3726

463799756.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

Rust silk chiffon gown with spaghetti straps

463799336.jpg_629_0_2622.43283582_4452

Ivory silk chiffon gown

463798654.jpg_535_0_2681.56716418_4794

463798644.jpg_593_0_2863.14925373_5070

463797432.jpg_0_0_3000_2000

 

 

Check out “New Horizons” from Skingraft

463711970.jpg_3_0_2997_1996

463711962.jpg_2_0_2997.5_1997

Skingraft recently showcased its A/W 2015 collection for NYFW at MBFW, Lincoln Center, the Pavilion. It was such a pleasure attending a bold, energetic runway show. Skingraft never disappoints! The looks were daring, designed for a tenacious fashionista, a rugged man. It seems so simplistic, but all in all, this collection can be honestly described as bad-ass!

463710052.jpg_413_0_2110.01492537_3790

463710082.jpg_383_0_1726.28358209_3000

463710192.jpg_421_0_2154.73134328_3872

463710200.jpg_468_0_2393.37313433_4300

The collection is inspired by young nomads trekking thru the Peruvian mountains in search for new horizons. It is also inspired by the legends of alien activity around Peru. You can see both of these inspirations quite clear in the dark, multi-layered looks. The voluminous amounts of layering easily suggest a nomad’s travel.

463710094.jpg_478_0_2443.2238806_4389

463710560.jpg_456_0_2333.01492537_4192

463710740.jpg_386_0_1971.97014925_3542

463710744.jpg_490_0_2504.47761194_4499

The new collection explores ideas of ancient and complex geometric patterns and brutal statue-like silhouettes. Shearling, leather, silk, wool jersey, cashmere, and hand-woven tapestries equip the A/W 15 Skingraft nomad with a survivalist silhouette that remains soft and refined. There is a sea of staple colors in black and white, but also much needed pops of understated colors, navy blue and deep burgundy.

463710714.jpg_461_0_2355.02985075_4230

463710746.jpg_327_0_1670.28358209_3000

463710890.jpg_327_0_1670.28358209_3000

463710894.jpg_468_0_2392.92537313_4299

Skingraft always showcases some impressive looks. The brand’s signatures are ever-present. There are some great leather pieces here. The outerwear for both men and women are truly must-haves! Each ensemble was clearly well thought out, stylized, no detail left unnoticed. I will most definitely be keeping my eyes out for these pieces come this fall!

463710904.jpg_327_0_1670.28358209_3000

463710926.jpg_449_0_2295.11940299_4123

463710942.jpg_440_0_2251.19402985_4045

463711170.jpg_423_0_2161.20895522_3882

Celebs and special guests in attendance — Kofi Richmond, Che’Nelle, Kate Nash, Lizzy Plapinger, Whoopi, Shaun Ross, Fabolous, Jerzey Martin, J. Alexander, Sita Abellan, Bishop Nehru, Nick Simmons, Nini Fabi, DJ Helena, Nervo Sisters, Ivy Levan.

463713394.jpg_709_0_3600.64179104_6458   463715252.jpg_750_0_3807.76119403_6829   463715288.jpg_733_0_3723.14925373_6678

463715460.jpg_902_0_3746.62686567_6353      463716630.jpg_700_0_3551.79104478_6369      463716546.jpg_863_0_3353.44776119_5562

463716462.jpg_0_3_7360_4909.66666667

463716196.jpg_668_0_3390.8358209_6081   463716104.jpg_697_0_3539.8358209_6349   463715438.jpg_725_0_3681.11940299_6602

463715816.jpg_725_0_3681.11940299_6602   463715910.jpg_752_0_3817.37313433_6846

Show credits —

463711942.jpg_444_0_2268.17910448_4074

463709618.jpg_0_2_6199_4134.66666667    463709708.jpg_0_2_6442_4296.66666667

463711178.jpg_395_0_2018.13432836_3625

463709624.jpg_539_0_2738.40298507_4912  463709650.jpg_0_3_7117_4747.66666667

463709946.jpg_0_2_5419_3614.66666667

463711974.jpg_2_0_2997.5_1997

 

 

         

Reem Acra — Dreams Do Come True!

463614876.jpg_5_0_2996_1994

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

463614018.jpg_357_0_1832.37313433_3295

463614878.jpg_364_0_1870.26865672_3364

463614136.jpg_377_0_1935.20895522_3480

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

463611642.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

463613962.jpg_368_0_1890.3880597_3400

463614028.jpg_338_0_1734.56716418_3119

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

463611388.jpg_328_0_1671.28358209_3000

463614098.jpg_378_0_1938.44776119_3485

463614378.jpg_352_0_1808.56716418_3253

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

463612582.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000   463614038.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000  463614056.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463615548.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000    463615530.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000    463615508.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000      

463614376.jpg_5_0_2996_1994 

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

463614130.jpg_315_0_1658.28358209_3000

463614350.jpg_315_0_1658.28358209_3000

463615490.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463615522.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

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

463611040.jpg_4_0_4924_3280

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

463610982.jpg_0_18_4536_3042

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

463611024.jpg_537_0_2743.56716418_4928

463612524.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463613988.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463614102.jpg_357_0_1830.58208955_3291

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

463614508.jpg_308_0_1580.08955224_2841

463614358.jpg_5_0_2996_1994

Timo Weiland’s take on the American Traveler

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-menswear-nyfw-sakspov-saks-at-the-shows-saks-men

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

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-001

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

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-002

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

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-003

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

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-004

Show credits —

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-008

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-010

Timo-Weiland-Fall-Winter-2015-menswear-saks-at-the-shows-saks-sakspov-b

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

Timo-Weiland-NYFW-Fall-Winter-2015-menswear-sakspov-saks-at-the-shows

Ready to Fish Presents “Compendium”

463599308.jpg_7_0_3586_2386

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

463597662.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463597896.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463597910.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

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

463597914.jpg_344_0_1766.08955224_3176

463597924.jpg_349_0_1788.55223881_3215

463597926.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

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

463597938.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463598318.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463598364.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

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

463598414.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463598894.jpg_371_0_1902.34328358_3420

463598910.jpg_388_0_1990.98507463_3580

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

463598956.jpg_401_0_2055.92537313_3696

463599266.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

463599278.jpg_325_0_1668.28358209_3000

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

463601852.jpg_576_0_2932.11940299_5262                   463602622.jpg_627_0_2668.79104478_4560

463602626.jpg_528_0_2688_4824           463602730.jpg_551_0_2801.89552239_5027

463603076.jpg_0_0_5613_3742Show credits —

463595420.jpg_630_0_3209.10447761_5760

463599438.jpg_380_0_1953.43283582_3514

463599332.jpg_6_0_3249_2162

NYMD Round-Up

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

Cadet

Beck_Lauren_Cadet12Inspired by the wartime restrictions in the Forties, Cadet presented tailored clothing mixed with workwear staples. Classic pieces included double-breasted suits, chunky shawl cardigans, bombers, and beanies in herringbone twill and wool blended with nylon. The collection was an ode to the gritty soldier, but in a modern way.

cadet-fall-2015-1

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

cadet-fall-2015-6

Fingers Crossed

unnamed-2

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

unnamed-4

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

unnamed-6

unnamed-5Garcia Velez

garcia-velez-fall-2015-1

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

garcia-velez-fall-2015-2

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

garcia-velez-fall-2015-3

Oscars After-Parties — Best Dressed!

Lots of red carpet looks make their way post-Oscars, some you might have missed, but really shouldn’t! So from all of the Oscars After-Parties, namely 2, here are the looks encapsulating the best of the best!

  • Elton John Aids Association Foundation — partners, Audi, Euro, Fiore Group, Wells Fargo, Starkey, Chopard, Viva Glam, American Airlines, Aquilini, and PinkNeuro.
  • Vanity Fair

Christina Aguilera

970c1eb7ed490905890fabf182867942b3391a29

So happy for Christina’s return to NBC’s The Voice, and really in a sense, a welcome back to the red carpet. I feel as if it’s been forever since I’ve seen her on a major red carpet. And WOW, does she not look mighty impressive! This long-sleeved, high-collared, crackle print creation by Marc Bouwer is stunning to say the least!And paired perfectly with her look, a metallic Judith Leiber clutch.

ef65b5941eeb2af1bf629fc658b78bb0a393c3f7

So Aguilera, who works with Miley Cyrus’s stylist Simone Harouche, made her gorgeous beauty look work with minimal makeup (for her) and a handful of Lorraine Schwartz baubles. Harouche posted a close-up of the gown on Instagram, which showed off the number’s sequin detailing over a layer of white mesh.

21730b2b37d64f512c99137e9f87c742ea34084f

Jane Fonda

xEngOUtIBvwl

Is there anything as of late that Jane doesn’t look simply amazing in?? I mean when it comes to red carpets, she can clearly do no wrong. I think it’s safe to say Zuhair Murad was the designer for the Oscars. So many of the brand’s looks were all over the place. And Jane rocked her choice with this sheer silver embellished number. Simply mesmerizing! Paired with her look, some lovely diamond Niwaka jewelry pieces.

Odette Annable

odette-annable-2015-elton-john-aids-foundation-s-oscar-viewing-party-in-hollywood_5

I knew there was something captivating and intriguing about this look right when I saw it. Duh! It’s Monique Lhuillier, a designer who epitomizes red carpet glam and elegance. Odette picked 100% correctly here with this strapless floral appliqued gown.

odette-annable-2015-elton-john-aids-foundation-s-oscar-viewing-party-in-hollywood_6

Kudos to her glam squad — styling by @taratballz, with makeup/hair by Christine Symonds, chic updo & bold burgundy lip.

odette-annable-2015-elton-john-aids-foundation-s-oscar-viewing-party-in-hollywood_1

10994243_10205674101353404_2833777342432729450_n

Andie MacDowell

I can personally attest to just how fabulous this Leanne Marshall plunging V-neck gown is. I just saw it about a week ago, up close and personal, at her NYFW show. This dye treatment, courtesy of Rit Dyes, is so eye-catching and stunning. Leanne has such a delicate hand and I’m happy Andie quickly recognized that and scooped this look up so quick, fresh off the runway!

Her beauty look is courtesy of L’Oreal Paris, such a bright, shining look, a glow you can’t overlook!

Nina Dobrev

1424712542_nina-dobrev-560

Nina is another gorgeous gal who can do no wrong on the red carpet in my eyes. She looks phenomenal in this dark red Reem Acra gown with lace applique and side cutouts.

She also knows how to accessorize her looks well, picking perfectly her, a bronze Lee Savage clutch and studded Christian Louboutin heels.

11021233_728162427296720_4148046587880918449_n

Eve Hewson

2015 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Graydon Carter - Arrivals

Love, love this strapless gold Vivienne Westwood gown with feather embellishments adorned all over the bottom portion of the dress — such a beautiful look. To complete Eve’s look, she is also wearing a few Sylva & Cie rings.

eve-hewson-2015-vanity-fair-oscar-party-in-hollywood_4

Jessica Szohr

23rd Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party - Arrivals

Jessica looks super glamorous in this all over lace Patricia Bonaldi dress with sheer side cutouts. It has such a vintage, antique feel about it, completely entrancing. And with a few understated accessories, she has paired with her look XIV Karats jewelry.

Angie Harmon

angie-harmon-2015-vanity-fair-oscar-party-02

I feel as if I’m all about some floral #s on this best dressed list, but I just can’t help it, each and every floral piece is so unique, and so intricately detailed. I’m hooked! Angie’s strapless black Vivienne Westwood is so regal, such a luxe look for her.

Angie-Harmon_-2015-Vanity-Fair-Oscar-Party--02-300x420

Huge props to her stylist, Cristina Ehrlich. This is such a great look, no matter the angle!

angie-harmon-2015-vanity-fair-oscar-party-01

And even though you can’t see them, yes, Angie is rockin’ some killer, studded Louboutins.

11022555_716445128454810_8555072483960490771_n

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Rosie-Huntington-Whiteley-600x900

What a super sexy look! Rosie is slaying it in this deep green Alexandre Vauthier Couture gown. It’s like liquid silk, and really, the back, intricately divine.

rosie-h-w-1-290

rosie-h-w-3-290

ZOE SALDANA

1424712635_zoe-saldana-560

Black and white has been a huge red carpet trend this award season, and Zoe clearly says why not put my own take on the trend! She looks smashing in this two-toned dress by Prabal Gurung, cinched at her already tiny waistline. She’s accessorized with statement-making Neil Lane diamonds.

Zoe-Saldana

Felicity Jones

1424712171_felicity-jones-560

Much more of a fan of this Oscars look, a black Saint Laurent gown with an embellished collar. She completed the ensemble with a white square clutch by Roger Vivier.

Jenna Dewan Tatum

1424712243_jenna-dewan-tatum-560

Jenna gets 2 nods here, pre-Oscars bash and post-Oscars afterparty. So for the afterparty, she is donning another Zuhair Murad Couture dress, showing off some sexiness with her super high slit!, Her look is accessorized with Lorraine Schwartz jewels and Stuart Weitzman shoes.

10994238_679413982169585_7688984909215303463_n

Not sure of the designer details for this rose pink dress, but she has paired with it a Salvatore Ferragamo clutch, truly just such a chic look!

Jenna’s glam squad team did a wonderful job here, all looks Oscars-related, Derek Peter Williams for hair; Patrick Ta for makeup, and Brad Goreski for styling.

1424704077_channing-tatum-jenna-dewan-lg

channing-tatum-60

Sofia-Vergara-600x900

Sofia Vergara

I tell you, it’s the night of Zuhair Murad, another stunning number, for Sofia, she went with this strapless ice blue embellished gown, phenomenal. Paired with her look, 1.5 million worth of Neil Lane diamonds.

And for Sofia’s beauty/makeup look, all thanks to Kayleen McAdams, cat eye and plum lip!

Sofia-Vergara

Adam Levine & Behato Prinsloo

adam-levine-behati-prinsloo-vanity-fair-party-01

Adam & Behati again, making for a dynamic duo, this time both in Calvin Klein, so cute with matching designers all night!. Paired with Behati’s silky nude CK dress are a few understated pieces of Norman Silverman diamonds.

 behati-prinsloo-at-vanity-fair-oscar-party-in-hollywood_4

Carlos Campos Says Texture is the New Black

Carlos-Campos-FW15-Group-Shot“If I were a chair, I would be a desk. If I were an animal, I would be a cat. If I were a box, it would be open. If I were a place, it would be in the shadow. The ret are textures and degraded colors.” (Rafafans, Spanish Graphic artist and Art Director for Carlos Campos) Carlos Campos presented his artistic Fall 2015 collection for NYMD, held at Industria Superstudio and presented by Cadillac.

a_4x-vertical

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

Carlos-Campos-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-012

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

Carlos-Campos-Fall-Winter-2015-Menswear-Collection-013

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

Carlos-Campos-FW15-Look-5

 Show credits –

Carlos-Campos-FW15-Look-15

Carlos-Campos-FW15-Look-17

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

Carlos-Campos-FW15-Look-19

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

Carlos-Campos-FW15-Look-11