Fashion, Beauty, and the pursuit of everything Fabulous.

Fashion Shows

Laura Smalls F/W 2013 Presentation: “Symmetry”

One sleeve silk charmus drama dress

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.


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.

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.

The final makeup look backstage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week’s Emerson Fall 2013 show

The final makeup look backstage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week’s Emerson Fall 2013 show

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.

ORLY Nail Lacquer in Pure Porcelain and ORLY Nail Lacquer in After Party

ORLY Nail Lacquer in Pure Porcelain and ORLY Nail Lacquer in After Party

The nail art was inspired by the fabrics used in Emerson’s fall 2013 collection

The nail art was inspired by the fabrics used in Emerson’s fall 2013 collection


Backstage Access: Fall 2013 NYFW Alon Livne makeup by Per-fekt Beauty

Makeup artist Suzana Hallili applying the finishing touches on a model

Makeup artist Suzana Hallili applying the finishing touches on a model

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.

Smouldering eyes and defined brows created the solider-like effect requested by the designer

Smouldering eyes and defined brows created the solider-like effect requested by the designer

The final make-up look

The final make-up look

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.”

Picture1

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.


Get the Look : Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012

Miranda Kerr backstage at the 2012 VS fashion show

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

CHEEK

• VS Makeup Illuminating Face Powder in Next to Nude
• VS Makeup Luminous Mineral Blush Duo in Pleasure

EYES

• 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

LIPS

• 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!


The Knot and the Wedding Channel Couture Runway Show – Spring 2013

Couture Runway Show

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.

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Brooklyn Fashion Week(end) – Badass Pretty Clothing

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.

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Nolcha Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2013: M.N ALOUSH

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

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.

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William Okpo S/S 2013 Presentation

William Okpo

On September 11th I attended the S/S 2013 Presentation of William Okpo, a women’s wear collection designed by two sisters, Darlene and Lizzy Okpo. The line, named after the sister’s father, takes its inspiration from their parents, Nigerian immigrants, who would often intertwine their culture’s clothing with American styles.

NYC skyscrapers peeked through the glass windows of the The Ailey Studios, as guests marveled at the clothing that seemed to evoke work wear of historic plantation workers mixed with modern-day sophistication. Earthy tones, playful polka dots, color-blocking, and some abstract silhouettes were noticeable trends in the collection.

Click on each photo to enlarge.


NYFW Spring/Summer 2013 By Misha Fashion Presentation

BYMISHA

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


Caitlin Kelly Designer Swimwear Spring/Summer 2013 Fashion Show

Convertible Monokini w/ Grommet Detail

Convertible Monokini w/ Grommet Detail

On Thursday, June 6, 2012, I attend the Spring/Summer 2013 preview fashion show of emerging fashion designer Caitlin Kelly on the Rooftop Solariam of TF Cornerstone’s 2 Gold Street in Manhattan’s Financial District. Set against the iconic backdrop of NYC skyscrapers, the fashion show featured Kelly’s four high-end mini swimwear collections: Maritime, Saraswati, Morgandy and Naima.

Kelly’s Designer Swimwear line caters to everyone – women have chic convertible bikinis, monokinis, one-pieces, and cover-ups to choose from; and, there are a variety of sophisticated swim trunks for men. Solid colors dominated the runway, but were vivified with intricate designs of lace, grommet detailing and pops of vibrant colors. These stylish creations managed to transform the association of swimwear from simple beach attire to fashion statements. Kelly’s swimwear designs are the kinds of pieces you wear when you attend a fabulous pool party and want to look unbelievably sexy while showing off your high-style sensibility. And why wouldn’t you? Doesn’t everyone own a convertible lace bikini?

Water can’t even wait for the designer’s swimwear to make it to the poolside; raindrops staring falling from the sky immediately after the last look got to the end of the runway.

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*All pictures (c) Delialicious Picks


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.

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Couture Fashion Week New York – Pietra Banchi

Finale gown at the 2012 Pietra Banchi fashion show at Couture Fashion Week held in NYC.

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.

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By Misha A/W 2012 “Crown Jewels” NYFW presentation

backstage

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

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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


Lands’ End Spring/Summer 2012 Preview

Just landed in: California


Yesterday I traveled to Paris, was whisked away to California, then stumbled upon a vineyard wedding, and finally relaxed on the beach. Sound like a dream? Well, not quite. This was the set up at the Lands’ End clothing line Spring/Summer 2012 press preview event that I attended yesterday evening. The clothing retailer took attendees on a journey across the country, with intricate table stagings and the fashions to match each destination. The sailor preppy vibe was predominant in this collection for both men and women, with a majority of the clothing, from shorts to dresses, featuring deep navy blues, pin stripes and ship anchors. Soft, lightweight fabrics in the collection contrasted with the thick knit crewneck sweaters I encountered on my journey through the different settings.

Lands’ End was a brand I used to shy away from, but items from the retailer are slowly starting to make their way into my closet, as lately my fashion sense has desired to develop a more sophisticated aesthetic, so I was excited to have the opportunity to preview the upcoming fashions. All of the pieces are great for layering, and offer a more updated and chic version of the iconic preppy style the retail chain is known for.

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Brooklyn Fashion Weekend Spring/Summer 2012 – Part 2

Publication1

This post is a continuation of Brooklyn Fashion Weekend Spring/Summer 212 – Part I ( October 1st shows).

Das Komitee

German-based designer Nina Athansiou presented the Spring/Summer collection from her fashion label, Das Komitee. Models slowly emerged like porcelain dolls against a soft melody; comparable to the kind of song you hear when you open a music box. Bright colors, short skirts, and free-flowing materials were distinct of the new collection, as well as pattern trimmings.


Ms Chalane

Ms Chalane’s line was introduced to us a plus-sized collection, but her Spring/Summer 2011 collection included pieces for all shapes and sizes. Soft fabrics, vibrant colors, jewel embellishments were major characteristics of this line.


J.Angelique

The J.Angelique Clothing line was the perfect way to end the show. Launched by designer Janelle Forde, the Caribbean -inspired women’s clothing line presented its Spring/Summer 2011, which was full of vibrant, chic and sexy pieces ranging from swimsuits, mini-dresses and jumpsuits. Interesting cuts, lace, and tropical colors filled the room. Models paid homage to the Caribbean by waving various flags from the tropical countries at the conclusion of the show.


Brooklyn Fashion Weekend Spring/Summer 2012 – Part I

dramatick

On Saturday, October 1st, I attended one of the shows of Brooklyn Fashion Week{end} (BKFW), held at Industry City at Bush Terminal. BKFW is presented twice a year by Brooklyn Style Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides emerging, low-income designers with the tools necessary to be successful in the fashion industry. This year’s theme was “Fashion Freedom.” Exciting up-and-coming designers from around the globe were given the opportunity to showcase their Spring/Summer 2011 collections on the runway from Sept 29th – Oct 2nd, 2011, which also benefited the MTV Staying Alive Foundation. Comparable to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, BKFW has become a powerful platform for designers on the verge of stardom to become a visible to media, buyers, and industry insiders.

Dramatik Fanatic

Edgy fashion designer and stylist Dramatik Fanatic (Rashard), presented his Dramatik Fanatic menswear & womenswear Spring/Summer 2012 on October 1st 2011 at BKFW. Known for his glamorous, over-the-top creations, this was one of the night’s heavily anticipated shows, and it delivered. Sequins, feathers, silk and bold colors bedazzled the runway with vivid, sexy, and unapologetic creations. Make no mistake, the pieces in the womenswear collection are not meant for the insecure, but cater to the confident woman, who doesn’t mind being the center of attention and having all eyes on her.

The menswear line did feature some sequin embellishments, but for the most part, was tamed, as it highlighted this season’s leopard print trend, small pops of color on solid shirts, and distinct shoulder padding designs.

I am completely obsessed with this piece! Adorned with sequins and feathers, this dress was definitely a showstopper.

Etxeberria

Designer Roberto Etxeberria reveled his Spring/Summer 2012 menswear collection on October 1st 2011 at BKFW. Deep blues, solid whites, and stripes ruled the runway, and were reminiscent of the sailor vibe meets effortless sophistication. There were many pieces that just screamed vacation, and made me wish I were in overseas watching these sharply dressed men walk the streets of Barcelona, where the designer currently resides.


Harlem’s Fashion Row 2011 NYFW Presentation

The event's honorees pose with HFR's leaders.

On Friday, September 16th, Harlem Fashion Row (HRF) ended New York Fashion Week by giving four aspiring minority designers the opportunity to present their Spring/Summer 2012 clothing lines at Jazz At Lincoln Center during a presentation amply titled, “Beautifully Out of Place.” The designers were selected during a highly publicized competition, in which the public got to vote for their favorite fashion designers. After thousands of votes, the four finalists selected were Bethune Bros. menswear designer Joseph Bethune; Jakia Handy of Ingram Talley; Onyenauchea Nwabuzor of Ana Kata; and Kellia Rogers of Kebero.

Some of the designers have their samples produced in clothing factories in midtown Manhattan, while others, create their designs in their small apartments. In addition to the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their lines during fashion week, the designers will receive mentoring from top professionals in the industry, and have their collections marketed and produced.

Established in 2007 by founder/CEO, Brandice Henderson, the work of HRF is unprecedented, as it gives designers of color the opportunity to be introduced to buyers and editors at the event, offering a platform that was unattainable without the help of the organization.

The organization also works to highlight the success of people of color in the industry, and honored Tyson Beckford, June Ambrose and Donna Williams, all who gave inspiring speeches about their journey during a cocktail reception held before the fashion presentation.

Honoree Tyson Beckford kept his speech short.

Honoree June Ambrose tearfully accepted her award.

Kebero


Bethune Bros.

Ana Kata

Ingram Talley

The 2011 HFR presentation was funded in part by Target. Speciality “Target-Tini” cocktails were provided by Par 7 Premium Vodka.


S/S 2012 N:F:P Collection Runway

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Knitted sweaters in the collection are multi-functional.

On Wednesday, September 14th I attended a fashion show by designer Gail Travis of N:F:P Studio, who unveiled her Spring 2012 collection in creative fashion presentation at Wix Lounge. This was not your ordinary runway show. As models emerged, they first stopped at a clothing rack, and added garments to the ensemble they were already wearing. In the center of the runway, they paused and transitioned the clothes they had on into completely different pieces by layering, folding, and connecting claps and buttons. When the models finally reached the end of the runway, they stopped in front of a mirror to undress and transform their clothing once more, as if we were getting a peep show into their private dressing room.

The collection features knitted sweaters, hand felted dresses, bodysuits, leggings, tops amongst other pieces that the designer considers architectural building blocks. The ability for the garments to be turned upside-down, backwards, and creatively molded to suits one’s style, allows for personal expression and an innovative fashion statement.

A model stops to adjust the clothing.

Guests were given an intimate look into a model's private dressing room as she adjusts herself in front of a mirror.

Free-flowing geometric forms are a signature style of the designer.

Each piece has the ability to be modeled to fit each individual's style.

Subtle, muted colors were heavily prevalent in the collection.


Ray Vincente MS Benefit during NYFW – S/S2012

On Monday, September 12th I attended a private runway presentation of designer Ray Vincente, as part of the Lawrence Blake Couture Series® at the Bryant Park Hotel’s Cellar Bar. Set against the room’s vaulted gray brick ceiling and medieval chandeliers, the designer presented special pieces from his Spring/Summer 2012 menswear collection.

The collection, a high fashion men’s sportswear line, featured crisp white, clean pieces with modest pops of color. Some of the clothing shown were nonchalant of the urban preppy vibe, which contrasted with pieces that featured edgy fabrics and elaborate detailing. The clothing is very stylish, and targeted towards men who have a strong fashion sense, and want to add a sophisticated, high-end aesthetic to their look.

The show’s host Carlos Anaya, known as the Latino Ryan Seacrest, made sure to inform the audience about the important cause behind the fashion presentation – all proceeds from the event benefited the National MS Society.

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Nolcha Fashion Week: Danilo Gabrielli, Guljan Yrys, & KabukiU

On Monday, September 12th, I attended the Nolcha Fashion Runway shows of designers Danilo Gabrielli, Guljan Yrys, KabukiU at the Metropolitan Pavilion. Before the shows began I had a very brief moment to check out the booths of the amazing sponsors of the night including Kiss, VitaBath, and LypSyl (this stuff is amazing! It melts right onto your lips).

The show began with the Spring/Summer 2012 collection by Italian designer Danilo Gabrielli, and featured rich earthy tones, free flowing dresses, sparkling sequin pieces, ruffled skirts, and a breathtaking short dress flanked by a long fur train.

Designer Gulzhan Rysbekova’s line Guljan YRYS followed Gabrielli’s show. Daring little black dresses sauntered down the runway in every type of fabric and design imaginable. Although these dresses were monotone, they were designed so intricately and were so unique, that they were truly nothing short than mesmerizing. Rysbekova didn’t stop there. Immediately after the sea of black, followed white gowns that looked as if they were channeling a chic wedding in the Hamptons with soft fabrics, detailed embellishments and figure-flattering silhouettes.

Models pose after the runway show (Gulzhan Rysbekova line).

Designer Telina Webb’s KabukiU latest collection, Romantique, closed the show. The collection combined the designer’s Euro-Asian heritage with romantic 1950’s evening, lounge and lingerie styling. Vibrant, multi-colored kimonos and dresses filled the room, featuring flowing silk, pastel brocades, and cream embroidered fine chiffon.

Models pose after the KabukiU Spring/Summer 2011 runway show.