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!
Nautical Striped Turtleneck Sweater, $78
Striped Off The Shoulder Sweater Dress, $158
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.
Asymmetrical Leather Jacket, $328
Contour and Faux Leather Legging, $49
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.
Multi-stripe Ruffle Top
Contour Belted Peplum Dress, $168
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.
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.
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- Tri-colored dress
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- Black pinwheel dress
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- Symmetry jacquard dress
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- Orgami strapless evening dress
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- Metallic top with pewter skirt
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- One sleeve silk charmus drama dress
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- Jade Green peplum jacket & dress
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- Black dress with shoulder cut-out
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- Wine cut-out dress
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- Designer Laura Smalls
Feb 1st is National Wear Red Day®,
February 1st will mark National Wear Red Day®, a campaign that encourages everyone to wear red to bring awareness to women’s heart health. Heart disease is the #1 leading cause of death among women, and since the red dress has now become synonymous with heart health, I thought I’d look all over the web to find some of my favorite dresses and hopefully, inspire you to wear red on Friday. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, so you can recycle your red ensemble for a special date night or anti-Valentine’s Day night out with the girls. Note: Men can participate too by wearing a red tie or shirt.
Ruby Tuesday Red Sequin DressLove it!, $62.00
Sequin and Chiffon Blouson Dress, $39.00
American Living Harper Cap-Sleeve Side Ruffle Dress, $50.00
Tahari Short-Sleeve Lace Dress, $83.40
Cap-sleeve Ponte Dress, $88.00
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.
Deco Sequin 2-Fer Dress, $36.99
Accentuate your figure: Body-hugging bandage dresses show off your silhouette.
BCBGMAXAZRIA Petite Beret Cocktail Dress, $156.99
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.
Blondie Nites One-Shoulder Dress, $199
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.
Silver (SL) Fringe Hem Dress $42
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.
Animal Print Blazer, $128.00
Belted Animal Print Dress, $158.00
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.
Pictures from the October 13th fashion show – Click to enlarge
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:
Brooklyn Fashion Week[end} – 2013 Spring/Summer John Guarnes
On September 30th I attended the Spring/Summer 2013 ready-to-wear, avant-garde and couture collection presentation of Philippine designer, John Guarnes as part of the 14th season of Brooklyn Fashion Week[end} in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Set against the pulsating rhythms of African beats, freely flowing fabrics in dark earth tones danced across the stage, before bright colors of chiffon and tulle exploded onto the runway. A majority of the designs were classic, and every inch of the clothing, from the embellishments to the cut of the fabrics, was meticulously constructed to fit the contours of a woman’s body perfectly. The presentation ended with a show-stopping white ensemble that would be a perfect choice for a unique, summer bride.
Brooklyn Fashion Week(end) – Badass Pretty Clothing
On the evening of Saturday, September 29th, I attended the 2013 Spring/Summer shows at Brooklyn Fashion Week{end} (BKFW) at Industry City at Bush Terminal in Sunset Park. Over the course of four days, BKFW gives emerging international and local designers a platform to showcase their work, while supporting charities. Proceeds from this year’s event benefit The Paul Robeson Theater, The SCIP program and Soles4Souls®.
At Saturday’s show, one presentation that absolutely blew mind was Melissa Squire’s line, Badass Pretty Clothing. Models donned outfits that looked like 1950s pin-ups got together with rocker chicks from the 1980s and decided to start a clothing line. This, as it turned out, was a very good thing. There was nothing bland or ordinary in this show. Vivid colors, fun prints and peek-a-boo lace detailing made for an exciting parade of fashions on the runway. Dresses that looked very sexy, all of a sudden became sweet, as models turned around to reveal cute, unexpected bow detailing on backside of the clothing. The fashions in this line are over-the-top and playful, but still very wearable. All of the items can be dressed up with accessories and heels, or made casual with funky jewelry and layers. I should also point out that a lot of the dresses are actually reversible, so you get two outfits for the price of one. The collection is, as the name of the line says, pretty badass.
Nolcha Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2013: M.N ALOUSH
When the first model of a show emerges wearing a Catwoman mask, you immediately know you are about to witness something amazing. Bold, edgy and chic are words I would use to describe the fashions of Middle-Eastern duo Mesho and Nouf Abothnain, who presented their latest collection at Nolcha Fashion Week on Wednesday, September 12th at Pier 59 Studios in New York City.
Daring, sexy creations surfaced onto the runway with surprises of unconventional combinations of colors and materials. I literally sat in my chair eagerly awaiting the appearance of each model, and was never left feeling disappointed. Black, lace overlays transformed cheerful fabrics into sultry statement pieces, and the gold detailing on some of the clothing were absolutely regal. A special highlight of the show was a plain black short suit flanked by a cape, which revealed an unexpected vivid floral pattern on its underside as the model walked. Click here to learn more about the designer’s label, M.N ALOUSH.
For more photos from the show visit Nolcha’s website»
Nolcha Fashion Week: Angelys Balek
On Wednesday, September 12th, I attended the fashion show of Thailand-based designer Angelys Balek, as part of Nolcha Fashion Week at Pier 59 in New York City. The show opened with playful patterns, and slowly transitioned to a more subdued style. The incorporation of cut-out leather in bold colors amplified what would otherwise be monotone, black clothing. Though a little rebellious, the leather somehow managed to be sweetly feminine, elegant, and absolutely chic.
NYFW Spring/Summer 2013 By Misha Fashion Presentation
On Friday, September 7th, I attended the Spring/Summer 2013 fashion presentation of By Misha. I love the whimsical themes of By Misha’s collections. The Autumn/Winter 2012 line, Crown Jewels, was fairytale-inspired (read my review of that collection here). The theme of this year’s collection is Wishing Well, and features charmeuse and chiffon fabrics in shades of honeysuckle, mint, forest, marmalade and crème brulee. Beautiful organza pearl flowers stood out as a strong characteristic of this collection, as they adorned romantic dresses, skirts and tops. Modest sequin detailing is also prominent in some of the clothing in Wishing Well. Hey, a girl’s got to have a little sparkle.
White-Rose: cream full-length fitted strapless gown
(L-R) Meadowsweet: mint chiffon cocktail dress and Lemon-Mint: grey pleated, wide-legged chiffon trousers with half-sleeve mustard brocade jacket, with pearl flowers
Foxglove: fuchsia cocktail dress with transparent top adorned with organza pearl flowers
Tiarella: shoulder cream blouse with organza pearl flowers paired with a high-waisted, puffed brocade skirt.
(L-R) Daffodil, Dandelion and Elderberry
Trend Alert: Floral Pants
Flowers can be found everywhere in the summer, and I’m not just referring to the garden variety. Floral pants are just as in as Greek yogurt this year, and offer a chic, but casual summertime look. I will admit that this may be the one trend I will probably shy away from, because I can see this trend disappearing as soon as fall’s crunchy brown leaves send summer’s cheery vibe into obscurity . In all honesty, it is the perfect choice if you are trying to attract a lot of attention, but I’m having a very hard time pinning down when this fashion statement is acceptable to wear outside one’s home. But, if you must, below are some options that caught my eye.
Cropped Conversational Print Pants, $24.80 at Forever 21
Floral Sateen Slims, $118 at Anthropologie
J Brand Floral-Print Jeans, $141.40
AG Adriano Goldschmied The Legging Ankle Graphic Floral Twill, $178.00
4th of July Fashion
So, the 4th of July is coming up and what better way to show off your patriotism than with fashionable pieces of red, white and blue. Whether you plan on laying poolside or attending a nighttime outing this holiday, here are some chic ways to show off your American pride.
If you will be frolicking on the beach or at a pool party, make heads turn with this bikini that pays tribute to Uncle Sam.
4th of july (JLY) twist bandeau & tie side moderate, $15 each
This Red White Blue Tiered Dress with banded elastic waist and scooped neckline is perfect for looking trendy without being overstated.
Red White Blue Tiered Dress, $23.99
Adorn your feet with these nautical inspired Two Lips Anti Wedge Sandal looks, which mimic the red and white stripes of the American flag.
Two Lips Anti Wedge Sandal, $49.94
Wearing full-on Americana regalia may not be your thing, but you can still sneak in a little patriotism by wearing fashionable jewels such as this necklace.
Falling Stars Necklace, $2.80
ICU Eyewear offers sleek frames in bright colors and fun styles, perfect for the beach or outdoor barbecue.
Classic Bifocal Sun Reader in Red, $25.95
Also, check out the 4th of July nail art we did last year for another great idea on how to celebrate the holiday in a chic way.
Interview with the Founder of Couture Luv
Ashley Nicole Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Couture Luv
Ashley Williams, the brainchild behind online fashion boutique, Couture Luv, didn’t always want to work in the fashion industry. After receiving a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, she was on a career path of becoming a lawyer, until she realized she had a strong desire to combine her love of styling with her desire to be an entrepreneur. Williams now exercises her instinctual knowledge of what women are looking for in terms of fashionable clothing and affordable price points with her online clothing boutique, Couture Luv.
From trendy tops to colorful leggings, the online store, which launched in March of 2012, offers pieces that super chic and trendy, and feature unique clothing and accessories that you are going to “luv.”
How did you decide on the name?
Because of the love I have for couture and vintage fashion, I decided upon the name couture. Luv is because of my personality and how I present myself. I am a very ‘luving’ and caring person. I have a deep yearn in my heart to help others, and the best way to help is to spread the luv.
What motivated you to start your business?
My love for fashion and design lead me to starting my own business. I loved to style others based on the things that make them unique. I always feel that how a woman feels inside should be reflected through her clothes, so I wanted to start a store that carried things that could be beneficial to all women in their own unique ways.
How did you come up with the concept for Couture Luv? Any specific reason behind why you choose to use “luv” vs “love”?
Yellow Geometric Bodysuit, $30.00
I chose ‘Luv’ instead of ‘Love’ because I thrive to be unique.
Is this your full-time job?
Yes this is my full-time job.
Do you have any employees?
No, I do not currently have employees. I only have interns who are working towards a career in the fashion industry. I do look to expand in the future.
How do you find the models for your website? What do you look for when selecting someone to model the clothes?
I have not held any model searches, I hand-pick my models randomly. I see someone walking in the mall and find the perfect model. When selecting models I look for everyday body types. I don’t typically cast models who are a size two, because the majority of women aren’t that size. I try to find models people can identify with. I love all nationality and races. I thrive for diversity when choosing models. I am currently searching for plus-size models. Finding plus-size models is my biggest challenge when searching for models for the site.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of launching the site so far?
The most rewarding aspect from Couture Luv has been the positive feedback I’ve gotten from my happy customers. Just knowing I made someone’s day, is very rewarding for me.
Geometric Dress, $20.95
What has been the most challenging aspect?
The most challenging aspect has been marketing the brand.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from within. The artist that lives within me paints the pictures that I bring to light.
What is the company’s best-selling item(s)?
All of our unique tights/leggings are most popular right now.
What do you look for when selecting items for the website?
Sometimes I look for creativity and sometimes I look for simplicity; it depends. My fashion intuition has many different sides and angles. I look for everything from bright neon colors, strips, and patterns; to old English button ups, and pearls. I like to be out-of-the-box.
Do you have any advice for young women looking to start their own business?
For young people wanting to start a business, my advice would be to be determined and unafraid. You have to market yourself well, sell yourself and your brand. I am very open to others emailing me with questions about my success in such a small time frame.
Are there any special promotions going on now that you would like to highlight?
In July 2012, I am giving a percentage of my sales to the Barack Obama campaign 2012. I would love for everyone to come on-board in knowing we’re supporting a good cause. We also do hour deals which there are promotion code discounts from 10% to 50% that is available to those who are following us on twitter. ‘Fam28′ is the permanent code that will give you 10% of on every purchase. This code can be obtained once you register with the site. The code can be re-used.
A percentage of Couture Luv’s sales to the Barack Obama campaign 2012
Is there any additional info you would like to provide me with?
Our slogan is ‘Pretty Girls Rock’. We are a vendor at many events in the South Florida region, so if anyone is in area, they can find out where we will be selling from our Facebook page. We update regularly.
Follow us on twitter: @Coutureluv1
Instagram: Couture_Luv
Facebook: CoutureLuv
Scotland Re:Designed New York Showcase
On April 10th, I attended the Scotland Re:Designed showroom launch party as part of Scotland Week 2012 in New York City. The event, held in association with the Scottish Government and Creative Scotland, featured the collections of twelve of Scotland’s hottest fashion designers and textile companies. This new initiative provided the designers a platform to promote, share and expand their work with NYC media and buyers.
The creative work show visibly drew on historic Scottish heritage as seen with some of the pieces by award-winning designer Judy R Clark that were made with tartan cloth; yet, everything managed to be fresh and was far from antiquated (the tartan cloth pieces incorporated lace).
The exhibit of Belinda Robertson immediately drew my attention. Ms. Robertson already has a large fan base in Scotland, especially among celebrities and fashion editors, and after viewing with pieces it’s not hard to see why. The beautiful clothing is made from 100% Pure Scottish Cashmere and some of the pieces incorporated intricate embellished crystals, which provided just the right amount of sparkle.
Belinda Robertson Cashmere
Do YOU “Live in Fashion?”
Liveinfashion.com Owner Michelle Akers
Starting your own business is no easy task, especially in the fashion world, where competition is fiercer than an episode of Ru Paul’s Drag Race. So how does a young boutique owner stay on top of their game in a dog-eat-dog industry? We sat down with Michelle Akers, Owner/Buyer of the New York based online boutique Liveinfashion.com to find out.
Launched in December 2009, Liveinfashion.com, caterers to “the woman who is daring to be different.” The online store successfully sells out unique fashionable pieces, reflecting Akers’ eye for quality, and innate ability to sense what women covet when it comes to style.
Where are you from?
Wow…I was born in Houston, Texas then moved to Brooklyn, NY for a little while, then to Jamaica, Queens. Now, I live in Elmont, Long Island.
What inspired you to start you online boutique?
I remember coming home one night and just saying to my mom that I wanted to start an online store. I’m a very daring person, so when I dress people would always ask where I got certain pieces from. I decided that I wanted to be the source of “getting.”
How did you decide on the name?
It came down to either “love in fashion” or “live in fashion.” The slogan “Do you live in fashion?” just stuck and that’s how I chose the name. (more…)
Spotlight: African American Designers
With Black History month coming to an end, it’s only fitting that we should profile top African-American designers….
Post submitted by Jolevette
AMSALE ABERRA
Amsale Aberra is known for her modern version of the classic fairytale bridal gown. Her gowns have adorned brides such as Bethany Frankel and has starred in many films including “When in Rome” and “The Hangover”. Born in Ethiopia, Amsale came to the United States to follow her love of fashion design. Her quest to follow her passion started with her own wedding dress. After designing her own simple, yet elegant gown, Amsale took her vision of the modern bride worldwide. Simple, yet elegant and sophisticated, Amsale’s bridal line is truly one for the understated yet fabulous bride. And she has only expanded her empire. Her works of art now include Christos, Kenneth Pool her couture Amsale Blue Label and the Little White Dress. You can find her collections in Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Kleinfeld’s to name a few. Whether you’re looking for something simple or extravagant, Amsale’s “forever modern” designs are sure to satisfy any bride.
To learn more about Amsale and her collections, visit her website here»
Amsale bridal gowns
STEPHEN BURROWS
Stephen Burrows is one of the first African-American designers to become very well-known. A graduate of FIT, Stephen started as a visual director at Henri Bendel’s and after gaining recognition for his works of art. His clientele has included Cher, Diana Ross and Liza Minelli. Stephen Burrow’s designs are known for their artistic value. He is inspired by many muses: music, dance and colors. His styles are revolutionary and impeccable and are masterpieces in their own right. A true artist and innovator in the black community of designers, Stephen Burrows is a true fashion revolutionary.
To learn more about Stephen Burrows, visit his website here»
Designer Stephen Burrows pose with models at his fall 2012 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in NYC. (February 15, 2012 - Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images North America)
EDWING D’ANGELO
Bold, daring, chic, young, sassy are all words that describe this designer. Edwing D’Angelo demands attention…and so does his designs. He has been featured In the New York Times, MTV, The Today Show and he has been recognized in the acclaimed fashion film “The Devil Wears Prada”.
To see more of D’Angelo’s works, visit his website here»
Couture Fashion Week – Isabel Zapardiez – Couture Bridal Designs
On Friday, February 16th, I attended the fashion presentation of Spanish designer Isabel Zapardiez, who unveiled a selection of stunning couture bridal designs inside the iconic Grand Ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
Every model emerged as poised goddesses draped in silk satin, muslin, organza, tulle and brocade. Embellishments of Chantilly lace, crystals, mother-of-pearl and silver added to the drama and ethereal feel of the gowns they adorned. These creations had movement and body, instead of the usual stiffness of traditional wedding gowns. And, even though the fabrics were dancing in the air as the models walked, the silhouettes of the designs still consciously hugged and accentuated the feminine figures of the women.
Couture Fashion Week New York – Pietra Banchi
On Friday, February 17th, I attended the Fall 2012 fashion show of Pietra Pizarro called, “Future Feminine,” at Couture Fashion Week New York, held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. Pietra-Pizarro is a division of Banchi Design, headed by Peruvian designer Pietra Banchi and Puerto Rican photographer Susan Pizarro-Eckert.
The clothing in the collection was soft and flowy, yet some edgy pieces managed to sneak their way in, and eventually the two juxtapositions combined. For example, a smooth, silk black evening dress was followed by a futuristic metallic dress. A gorgeous green, flowing gown that incorporated a black corset with metallic accents then emerged, combining the elements of the two dresses that preceded it.
After a number of daring pieces, a show-stopping white, billowing gown ended the presentation, returning to the femininity that the show began with.
By Misha A/W 2012 “Crown Jewels” NYFW presentation
Models pose backstage at the By Misha “Crown Jewels” A/W 2012 Presentation.
On February 10th I attended the A/W 2012 Presentation of emerging London fashion designer Misha Vaidya, who presented her fairytale-inspired collection, Crown Jewels, for her line By Misha. Guest were swept away into an enchanted land as statuesque models emerged in bedazzling pieces, complemented by loose, flowing waves and whimsical makeup.
Hair & Makeup
Makeup by Nina Arce (Nina’s Makeup), Hair by Privé Salon and Nails by Martier Spa.
Smoldering, dark, smoky eyes created a dramatic, sensual look.
The hair on all the models were big, loose, and flowing, adding to the fantasy feel of the “Crown Jewels” collection.
Gold headbands were placed low on the forehead, and gold face glitter illuminated the skin of the models.
The Collection
The collection drew inspiration from storybook fairytales, and featured romantic ruffles, dreamy free-flowing chiffon and adventurous embellishments. Even when the models weren’t moving the clothing looked like they were delicately floating in the air, as they softly clung onto the contours of the figures they were draping. The base colors of most of the garments were black and gold, and featured rich jewel tones, emerald, fuchsia, purple, mustard, turquoise and royal blue.
Danilo Gabrielli Fall/Winter 2012 Runway
On February 9, 2012, I attended the Fall/Winter runway show of Italian-born designer Danilo Gabrielli, during Nolcha Fashion Week: New York at the Alvin Ailey Studios in New York City. The designer has certainly come a long way since I covered his Spring/Summer 2012 show last season at Nolcha, where he had to share the runway with two other independent designers. This season, the spotlight was on Gabrielli alone, whose show attracted the cast of The Real Housewives of New York City, who were in attendance, along with a plethora of other Gabrielli supporters.
The F/W 2012 collection drew on references from the 1940s, by using wool and silk fabrics and modernizing popular trends from that era including demure pencil and a-line skirts, modified shoulder pads, pussy bow blouses and fur stoles. The looks were complementary opponents by somehow managing to be powerful, yet feminine at the same time. Unexpectedly, glamorous sparkling creations managed to surface and intertwine perfectly in between the sophisticated subdued hues of a majority of the fashion, making the collection effortlessly chic and stylish.
A model poses after the show holding YouTonics collagen health drink
You can view more photos from the show here
Let’s Play a Game: Superbowl Outfit Touchdown
So Eli Manning and Tom Brady are at it again. This age-old rivalry will take place this Superbowl XVLI this Sunday as the Giants take on the Patriots in Indianapolis. And while your man will probably be sporting his favorite player’s jersey, you can make sure you look like his own championship ring at the Superbowl party.
Find your style to be the ultimate trophy by following the chart pictured below. Here are the steps to follow to make sure your outfit is a touchdown:
Step 1: Pick your team
Step 2: Pick your favorite guy
Step 3: Select what top best suits your style
Step 4: Stand out in sexy shoes
Step 5: Don’t forget your bottoms!
Step 6: Have fun at the party!
Where to buy the items pictured
New York Giants
Tops
Sequined Racerback Tank, $14.50
Easy Flow Tiered Tank, $10
Shoes
Waleo shoe from Jessica Simpson in Blue Violet, $89
Promise Goodness Wine Red Mary Jane Power Platform Pumps, $37
Pants
Dittos Dawn High Rise Royal Blue Skinny Jeans, $79
White Women’s Denim Retro-Flare Sailor Pants, $25
New England Patriots
Tops
Dark blue (DKBL) one shoulder tunic, $24
One Shoulder Embellished Dolman Top, $50.99
Shoes
Promise Manchi Silver Spike Peep Toe Party Pumps, $49
Nine West Dasher Peep-Toe Pump, $89
Pants
New Semester Red Pants, $35
Women’s Front-Seam Skinny Jeans, $29
Written by Jolevette; Chart created by Delialicious
