S. Whittaker’s “Time Signature” Exhibit
On Friday, May 10th I attended the launch of 3D Art by S. Whittaker at her exhibit, Time Signature, held at Top of The Garden in midtown Manhattan. The event, presented by Reign Entertainment Co., featured the artist’s oil and acrylic based portraits on wooden canvases. As attendees viewed portraits of infamous entertainers from the past, present and future, 3-D glasses were provided for an innovative and interactive visual experience. Some famous portraits on display included Lauren Hill, Michael Jackson and Amy Winehouse. Check out some of the photos below (note: JavaScript is required to view the images).
Mad For The Manbag?
The manbag: once a most unfairly maligned accessory that was reserved for the more, let’s say, sartorially serious gent. ‘Real men’, of the kind of butch masculinity heralded by Yorkie chocolate bars and McCoy crisps, would never be seen with anything so fey and useful , instead preferring to stock their pockets or maybe condescend to use a natty skate backpack, at a push.
But that would be me showing my age, for in recent years, the manbag has undergone a reputation overhaul and now is the accepted accessory of nary a man, regardless of personal style or degrees of butch, with everything from satchels to duffle bags thrown over shoulders.
Personally, I’m all for a good man bag: why should men be so heartlessly deprived of life’s greatest pastime (namely, bag shopping) while simultaneously forced to ruin the line of their trousers with overstuffed pockets? Tsk, this is an age of equality we live in and it is only right and proper that men should be able to enjoy the finer aspects of life just as we women do. But just as the most unyielding have come round to this way of thinking and begrudgingly accept that it’s possible for something other than the briefcase to be carried, Burberry have challenged us anew with the latest update to the manbag: the man clutch. I see those questioning looks on your faces; this isn’t a return of the murse, but rather streamlined bags to be carried much in the way you might your iPad, which can no doubt be handily stored inside. Burberry’s offerings included those in brightly coloured metallics (which could work with this season’s skater boy trend, in theory) but the early adopters of the trend on the street often tend to favour oversized, slouchy leather versions in simple black or brown leather, which are more ideal for those wishing to ease themselves in. There are even some to be found that come with a slim chain, so, when you tire of carrying it, you may causally adorn your shoulder. But I see I’m losing you again.
Now, this isn’t going to be for everyone, I grant you, and it may take a few more seasons for the majority to come round, but if you can pull this one off with aplomb, why you’ll look the height of sartorial elegance.
And if anyone questions your choice of accessory, simply throw them a withering look of pity, deprived as they are of the wonder of the manbag. Or failing that, pretend like it’s your girlfriend’s…
Amy Lavelle is a journalist from UK fashion comparison site Style in View. She’s contributed to a number of publications including Spindle magazine.
Get Eco Friendly Eyewear from ICU for Earth Day
Today, April 22nd, marks Earth Day. Last week, I told you how you can get great skin while supporting a green initiative, and today, I’m featuring a way you can complement your great skin and eco-friendly lifestyle with ICU Eyewear. Specs from ICU are a fashionable way you can protect your eyes, while protecting the environment. Since the launch of its first “Eco Reader” in 2006, ICU has used the most sustainable materials including bamboo, recycled metals, and other plant based materials, to manufacture many of its reading glasses, sun readers and sunglass styles.
Product Recycling Program
ICU encourages consumers to recycle their readers so materials can be repurposed. Through the company’s product return and recycling program, customers can return used eyewear to the company’s warehouse to be recycled. Glasses that are in good condition are donated to organizations that distribute eyewear to those in need. To date, ICU has donated over a 100,000 pairs of glasses through various programs worldwide. Learn more here»
Steal Disney Princesses’ Fashion
Let’s be honest, what little girl doesn’t wish that she were a princess at some point in time? Heck, I’m a big girl and I still harbor princess fantasies. So, I figured what better way to live out the princess dream, than to dress like one.
For a Hot Summer Night Out – Snow White (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)
This modern take on the princess’ royal clothing is sure to make keep you feeling cool, while looking hot.

1. Dark Blue Floral Tapestry Corset Bustier, $44
2. Mason by Michelle Mason bright-yellow maxi skirt, $216
For a Walk in the Park – Princess Jasmine (Aladdin)
Look effortless on a sunny morning with this casual-chic ensemble.
1. Seamless Fitness Fit Spaghetti Strap Bandeau, $9.80
2. Drawstring Harem Pants, $14.50
Be the Belle of the Ball – Belle (Beauty & the Beast)
Prom season is coming up. Stand out when you walk into the room with a bright yellow ballgown.

Custom Made sweetheart Lace Up Beaded Yellow Ball Gown, US $141.12 – 158.59
Transitioning into Spring
Bold Strips
One trend seen on the runway for spring 2013 was bold stripes. Whether you are looking for a striped dress, top or skirt – it can be certain that every store will be carrying spring’s newest trend. Worried that stripes won’t work for your body type? Throw those fears out the window. Stripes work for most body types. Dare to be bold!
Leather
In an interesting twist, leather debuted on the runways for spring 2013. Spice up your traditionally light and springy wardrobe with a faux leather jacket or black pants with a leather trim. It’s the perfect way to take a daytime outfit to the night. Not sure if the leather look is for you? Try adding leather to your outfit with a clutch or over-the-shoulder bag.
Oversized Ruffles
Out of all the predicted trends for spring 2013 fashion, oversized ruffles add the perfect feminine touch. Adding a ruffle top to your wardrobe is the perfect way to take a daytime outfit from casual to chic. Wanting to dress up a little more? A bold-colored peplum dress adds a subtle ruffle while accentuating your feminine figure.
These style tips are from Caché. Caché is a specialty retailer of fashionable women’s clothing for the style-conscious woman. Visit http://www.cache.com/ for these looks and more today.
Kensie Summer/Fall 2013 Jewelry Colelction
Last week I attended the Summer/Fall 2013 jewelry preview event of Kensie, held at the company’s beautiful showroom in New York City. I believe a woman’s outfit is never complete with at least one accessory, so I was excited to see the new pieces, which will be available at Macy’s later this year. Whether your style is boho chic, low-key or elegant, there is something for everyone in this collection. The Summer/Fall line is an eclectic mix of colorful statement pieces and metallic jewelry, some of which feature fun geometric shapes.
I am in love with the bangle sets in the “Shine Like Stars” collection, which are engraved with inspirational words (seen below) and will make great gifts for upcoming graduations, birthdays, and other special occasions.
Click on photos to enlarge.

Shine Like Stars: Inspire Me, Live for the Moment, Tell Me Something and Shine Like Stars Bangle Sets ($28 each)

From top to bottom: Baguette stud, Multi Stick Drop, Long Stick Drop and Linear Triple Drop – all $18
My favorite accessories in the whole room were from the Rooftop Party Gasoline collection. The see-through, lace-like architectural design of the necklaces, earrings and braceltes creates a unique effect and is absoutely stunning.
Which pieces from the Summer/Fall 2013 collection are you coveting?
Spotlight on African American Designers in honor of Black History Month
LAURA SMALLS
Laura Smalls has been on the fashion scene since for some time; bit now she has become a household name since Michelle Obama wore one of her designs for the inauguration of President Barack Obama. A graduate of Parson’s school of Design in 1976, Laura started small selling a handful of designs at Blookingdales and Henri Bendel. Soon after, she was approached by Vogue to show at New York Fashion Week showing her one of a kind pieces and then subsequently showing a collection of evening dresses and cocktail gowns at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in South Africa.
Small’s designs are that of classic elegance, beauty and grace. She chooses fabrics that complement the design and the figure. Her pieces are truly one of a kind and designed with the individual woman in mind.
“Even though designing starts with a dream… it has to work for [a] woman.” – Laura Smalls
Delialicious Picks attended her Fall/Winter 2013 presentation a few weeks ago. Click here to read that article.
MONIF C.

Monif Clarke, CEO & Founder of Monif (Photo credit: http://monifc.com/inside-monif/)
Monif C. is unique in her own right. Not only in her style but who she dresses. This designer works specifically for the curvaceous individual allowing them to look beautiful and be themselves without worry of any fashion faux paus. Monif started her career in fashion after working in the non-profit sector and finding a lack of style and design set for the plus size woman. So, she started out on her own, traveling to London to start her own fashion house. She is now a sought after designer for plus size individuals and has been featured on Fox Business, ABC and Seventeen Magazine.
“Who Says Plus Size Can’t Be Sexy, Luxurious, and Feminine?” – Monif Clarke
B. MICHAEL

Designer B. Michael (Photo Credit: http://www.bmichaelamerica.com/bio/)
B. Michael was born a designer. He grew up in a house of style; many of his style secrets coming from his mother. After designing for Oscar DE La Renta, B. Michale decided to launch his own couture fashion line; he is now sought after for the classic woman. He has dressed Halle Berry, Angela Basset and the famous Lena Horne. He also dressed Whitney Houston in her role in”Sparkle”.
“It is a modern approach to glamour. It is also about achieving a very sophisticated, yet simplistic look. A woman who wears b Michael knows how to wear a basic dress and make it look glamorous.”
Post written by Jolevette
Laura Smalls F/W 2013 Presentation: “Symmetry”
On February 13th, I attended the F/W 2013 Presentation of Laura Smalls, held at Essex House as part of New York Fashion Week. The designer, who was catapulted onto the national scene after Michelle Obama wore two of her dresses, showcased her newest collection, ”Symmetry.” The designs were an amazing display of classic femininity meets sexy sophistication.
Body-flattering silhouettes hugged the contours of the models bodies as they emerged wearing dresses inspired from the graphic works of artist Sonia Delaunay. Teal, jade green, and pewter were amongst the colors characteristic of the beautiful evening gowns, some of which, incorporated silk fabric and shimmer detailing for a dramatic high-shine effect. A few of the garments offered peek-a-book cutouts, expertly tailored for the reserved woman who wants to show some skin without looking too risqué. The other pieces in the collection were designed with eye-catching geometrical shapes and striking color contrasts. Click on each picture below to see some of my favorites from the presentation.
- Tri-colored dress
- Black pinwheel dress
- Symmetry jacquard dress
- Orgami strapless evening dress
- Metallic top with pewter skirt
- One sleeve silk charmus drama dress
- Jade Green peplum jacket & dress
- Black dress with shoulder cut-out
- Wine cut-out dress
- Designer Laura Smalls
Backstage Beauty: Emerson by Jackie Fraser-Swan Fall 2013
On February 10th, I went backstage at Emerson’s Fall 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Studio at Lincoln Center. The team of Red Door Spa, led by National Creative Director and Master Stylist Zahir Ziani, was responsible for the teased up-do seen on the runway. The hair, as described by Ziani, was created to look effortless and natural, “as if the model put her hair up in the pony-tail herself.” Tousled curls were created first to add volume, and hair was wrapped around the base of the pony-tail and secured with bobby pins. Only one product was used, a dry spray by Kérastase, which allowed Ziani to apply the spray repeatedly while avoiding a greasy-weighed down look.
HAIR

Stylist Zahir Ziani didn’t use any rubber bands to hold the base of the hair in place. Instead, he used the model’s own hair, which was secured with bobby pins.
MAKEUP
All of the make-up used for the show was by Bobbi Brown. Dark, rocker-chic cat eyes were created using Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in black. And, the top of brows here highlighted using Bobbi’s limited edition Sparkle Eye Shadow, a combination of shimmering pearls and fine glitter. Similar to the hair, the makeup was done to look as if the model did it herself.
NAILS
The nails were just as edgy as the makeup. Inspired by the black lace used in Emerson’s collection, ORLY Nail Lacquer in Pure Porcelain and ORLY Nail Lacquer in After Party was used to create the fabulous nail detail seen below.
Backstage Access: Fall 2013 NYFW Alon Livne makeup by Per-fekt Beauty
On February 9th, I had the amazing opportunity to go backstage at Alon Livne’s show held at Lincoln Center as part of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Lead makeup artist Suzana Hallili explained that Livne wanted the models to look solider-like, an effect she created by emphasizing strong brows and grey, smoldering eyes. Gun Metal eye shadow, custom-made by Mob Wives’s star Love Majewski in collaboration with Hallili and Richard Anderson, was used on the upper and lower eye lids. Strong brows were defined with per-fekt brow perfection gel ($22), while nude lips made sure the model’s eyes remained the focus of attention. For luminous skin, skin perfection gel ($57.50) was used as a base all over the face, and cheek perfection gel in bronzed ($28) accentuated cheekbones.
Beauty Tip 1: According to Hallili, the skin perfecting gel can also be used to clean up excess eyeshadow that may fall under the eye, without having to worry about ruining the rest of your makeup.
Beauty tip 2: Hallili used eye perfection gel ($45) under eyes to neutralize redness, and make the models look more awake since they are usually tired from back-to-back shows. It’s a great product to use when you haven’t gotten a full night’s rest.
Backstage, I had the chance to chat with Love Majewski. “I love all of Per-fekt Beauty’s products,” she raved. “I especially love their body perfection gel.”
In addition to joining the cast of VH1′s Mob Wives, Majewski is a licensed cosmetologist and celebrity make-up artist. She also has a line of color cosmetics called Veritas Cosmetics.
Maya Brenner Zodiac Collection Sale
In the past I’ve written about Maya Brenner Designs, a high-end jewelry collection favorited by some of the most hottest celebrities. This week the jewelry company is kicking off 2013 by having a celestial sale – 40% off all zodiac necklaces and birthstone rings through Jan. 14. Since the year has just begun, you can buy a special zodiac accessory for someone you know and hold onto it until their birthday. Or, just grab one for yourself – at 40% off why not?
Rocks and Stones may break my bones, but they will always look fashionable on me

1. Druzy Necklaces, $40.00
2. Jay King Blue Lace Drusy Sterling Silver Drop Earrings, $89.90
3. Peter Ciesla Necklace, $690.00
4. Liz Larios Black Garnet Nugget Ring, $170.00
5. Raw peridot stud earrings, $14.00
6. Crystal Cave Rock Ring, $20.00
Ring in the New Year with Flirty Dresses
In just a few short days, the clock will strike midnight on January 1st, 2013. What will you be wearing when it does? I’ve pulled together some of the hottest dresses I could find on the web, that will make you stand out in a crowd of glitter and overdone hair.
Add a little color: If you want to stand out in a crowd, sometimes the only thing you need to do is wear a unique color.
Accentuate your figure: Body-hugging bandage dresses show off your silhouette.
Jazz it up: If you must wear sequins, opt for a style that doesn’t make you compete with the New Year’s crystal ball. Subtle hints of shimmer in unexpected areas of your dress will make heads turn.
Have fun: You don’t always need to bring out the bling at a New Years Eve party. Dresses with fun patters and embellishments show off your personality.
Steeping Out – Bizzarre Shoes
As a fashion blogger, I like to surf around the web and visit different sites to see whats out there, and let me tell you, what’s out there is a lot. During my hunting trips through the forest of fashion content available online, nothing has perplexed and intrigued me more than odd shoes. Remember this piece I did called “Artistic Footwear” when the blog first started? I realized that I haven’t focused on shoes in a while so behold, dear reader, my end of year round-up of the most breathtaking, jaw dropping, and craziest shoes I could find around the web.
Iris Schieferstein’s stuffed dove shoes
German artist Iris Schieferstein has managed to horrify and mesmerize audiences with these sandals made out of real doves. The artist has used animals as raw materials in her art work for years, and gives a whole new meaning to taxidermy.

Aphrodite Project GPS Alert Platform Shoes
The slogan of these platforms is “Helping sex workers protect themselves.” The shoes have an alarm clock that will ring to ward off potential attackers, built-in GPS, and an area to store away keys, money, and other items.

Finn Stone’s LEG-GO Stilettos
Designed for last year’s Affordable Art Fair in London, these completely wearable pumps will run you about $2,600 in debt. Currently the stilettos aren’t available for commercial purposes, but rumor has it that if you contact the artist directly, he is willing to create a custom one for you.

14DS Clowny Boots

Land’s End 2012 Holiday Collection
Over the summer I had the opportunity to preview Land’s End Holiday 2012 collection. On a hot summer day, the company transformed a building space into a wintery wonderland filled with snowmen, outwear, and holiday décor for the home. Take a look below at some of the offerings for their 2012 Holiday Collection and click here to start shopping.
Get the Look : Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012
Every winter, I look forward to the annual Victoria’s Secret fashion show. I eagerly await the dazzling display of gorgeous models donning the most amazing lingerie costumes and the big on-stage reveal of the Million-Dollar Fantasy bra. But, other than the oversized wings and sexy undergarments, I mainly watch to look at the fabulous makeup of the models who walk the runway in the hopes of becoming inspired to re-create the looks. This year, makeup artist To Pecheux used products from the VS beauty collection to give the Angels sultry eyes, flawless skin, and sexy lips. Below is a list of products used:

Miranda Kerr backstage at the 2012 VS fashion show
FACE
• VS PRO Camouflage FX Universal Concealer Palette
• VS Makeup Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15
• VS PRO Flawless FX Translucent Finishing Powder
• VS Makeup Illuminating Face Powder in Next to Nude
• VS Makeup Luminous Mineral Blush Duo in Pleasure
• VS Makeup Eye Shadow Quad in Eye Contact
• VS Beauty Rush Ultimate Look Shadow Trio
in Most Wanted
• VS Beauty Rush Precision Line Eye Pencil in Pitch Black & Foxy
• VS Makeup Extra-lengthening Mascara
• VS Makeup Illuminating Face Powder in Next to Nude
• VS Beauty Rush Glossy Tint Lip Sheen in Better than Bare
Don’t forget to watch the Angels strut their stuff in Sexiest Show on Earth on Tuesday, December 4 at 10/9c on CBS!
Reversible Socks by Bizcaz

The great thing about being a fashion blogger is having the opportunity to learn about new projects before they become available to the masses. I was recently introduced to a socks line called Bizcaz. The developer of the line decided to create the socks after being frustrated with the lack of variety of colors and designs currently on the market. The socks not only have trendy designs and color combinations, but are also reversible, so you get two socks for the price of one. I guess my only problem with this concept is that the socks would be dirty on the side that was exposed, so it may be best to not wear two days in a row, simply because you want to take advantage of the reversible feature.
The socks are also made with silver infused in the fabric. Silver eliminates odor causing bacteria, making the socks virtually smell-proof, and great work anyone with an active lifestyle.
The launch of the project is heavily dependent on funding, so the company currently has a campaign on Kickstarter, a website that enables entrepreneurs the ability to ask for money from supporters interested in funding their project. Each person who pledges will receive a free pair of socks. To learn more about the socks and the campaign, please visit this link.
5 Cold Weather Fashion Essential Trends
Animal Prints
A quick and easy way to add flare to your outfit is to add a hint of animal print. However, even easier is going from stylish to tacky when wearing animal print. To avoid overdoing any print, try it out on one piece of your outfit. If you are feeling bold, try a printed dress. Make sure that the print is not too busy, and keep your accessories simple.
The Knot and the Wedding Channel Couture Runway Show – Spring 2013
On Saturday, October 13th, I attended a bridal couture runway show presented by The Knot and the Wedding Channel at the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan. The show took place as part of Couture Bridal Fashion week, New York’s premier bridal-industry trade show. This was the first time the event featured a grand runway presentation, which showcased more than 100 dresses from top designers. Gorgeous gowns of each designer billowed down the runway with intricate detailing in an amazing display of the latest fashion trends in the couture bridal world.
The designers featured included: Cymbeline, Emmaline Bridal, Ian Stuart, Jesus Peiro, Jorge Manuel, Katerina Bocci, La Femme, Maggie Sottero, Max Chaoul Couture, Melanie Harris, Mikaella Bridal, Nilah and Company, Paloma Blanca, Ruben Perlotti, Simone Carvalli, Siri, and Victoria Nicole.
In addition to fashion shows, Couture Bridal Fashion week offers retailers and designers the opportunity to showcase their latest collections throughout the week. Here are a few that caught my eye on my way to the runway presentation:


Cat Footwear Autumn/Winter 2012 collection

A picture of me checking out my new pair of CAT Footwear Corrine boots.
On Thursday, October 11th, I attended launch of Cat Footwear’s Autumn/Winter 2012 collection at their showroom in New York City. The collection features footwear that is just as fashionable as they are comfortable. Bloggers in attendance were given the amazing opportunity to take home a complimentary pair of shoes or boots. Featured styles for women included: the Corinne ($230), the Marin ($210), and the Rita ($170), and featured styles for men included: the Isaac ($150), the Dougald ($140), and the Haverhill ($140).
I chose the Corrine boot, made from full grain leather and canvas material. It reaches a few inches below the knee and will look great over skinny jeans or with a short casual dress. It easily slipped on over my work pants, and was unbelievable comfortable. The boots run a little big; I had to select a pair that were about 1/2 smaller than what I would normally wear, so keep this in mind when ordering. But, once you find your perfect size, you are well on your way to a fashionable rugged style that will amplify any winter outfit.

Alli’s Everlasting Arrangements & Accessories Blogger Contest
A few weeks ago I was approached by a representative of Alli’s Everlasting Arrangements & Accessories asking me to take part in a fun contest to style one of the company’s floral pins in friendly competition with other bloggers. After hearing the story behind the company, I couldn’t say no. Alli’s Everlasting Arrangements & Accessories, is a floral arrangements and accessories line designed by Renee Heyden, in memory of her daughter Allison (Alli) Emilie Heyden, who passed away at the age of 24 last summer. Alli was an up-and-coming fashion designer, had her own clothing line, and won numerous awards. Renee makes everything in the collection from fabrics she found in Alli’s room, and a portion of the proceeds from sales go towards the Alli Heyden Passion for Fashion Scholarship Fund at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD), Alli’s alma mater.
I received a pink suede floral pin embellished with sparkling rhinestones. It’s the perfect accessory to that can be used to jazz up any outfit. In the pictures below, you can see just how versatile the pins can be. I used it as a hair accessory, two different ways; attached it to a crystal belt; and, adored a solid shirt with the pin for a pop of color. Which one do you like best? The contest is bein hosted on Alli’s Everlasting’s Facebook Page.
Here is the direct link to vote: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.433878246649964.87455.327042910666832&type=1

Special thanks to Ramola Poonai nd Erin Angarola for thier help with this project. xoxo





































































