Fashion, Beauty, and the pursuit of everything Fabulous.

Posts tagged “Clothing

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

Nautical Striped Turtleneck Sweater, $78

Striped Off The Shoulder Sweater Dress

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

Asymmetrical Leather Jacket, $328

Contour and Faux Leather Legging

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.

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Multi-stripe Ruffle Top

Contour Belted Peplum Dress

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.


Spotlight on African American Designers in honor of Black History Month

LAURA SMALLS

Designer Laura Smalls (September 10, 2012 - Source: Chelsea Lauren/Getty Images North America)

Designer Laura Smalls (September 10, 2012 – Source: Chelsea Lauren/Getty Images North America)

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 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/)

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


Ring in the New Year with Flirty Dresses

Deco Sequin 2-Fer Dress, $36.99

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

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

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

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

Silver (SL) Fringe Hem Dress $42


5 Cold Weather Fashion Essential Trends

Animal Print Blazer, $128.00

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

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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: 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


Interview with the Founder of Couture Luv

Yellow Geometric Bodysuit, $30.00

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


Kardashian Spring/Summer 2012 Accessories

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Last week when I previewed the Kardashian’s new home collection, I also had the opportunity to preview the upcoming swimwear, bag, and accessories that will be launched later on this year. This expansion of their current Kardashian Kollection line shows that there is nothing off-limits for the trio. Take a look below. Which piece can’t you wait to see in stores?

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Let’s go summer hat shopping together!

Luxury Lane Luxury Lane Women's Beige Floppy Paper Straw Sun Hat with Removable Orange Scarf, $48.00

I recently booked an early summer vacation. That’s right, in just a few short weeks, I will be basking in the warmth of the sun, listening to the soothing sound of the ocean, and enjoying being kissed by the kind of soft, cool breeze that only exists on tropical islands. Although I am tremendously excited about my trip, once concern I have is the amount of time I will be spending outside – no one goes to a beautiful tropical island to just sit in their hotel room. And, being the busy body I am, I foresee shopping trips, laying on beach, and daytime outdoor dining. So, in addition to my spf, I’ve begun the search for a fabulous hat that will not only make me look chic, but protect my skin from the hash rays of the sun. Check out the hats I’m considering below. Which one do you think I should get?

Luxury Lane Luxury Lane Women's Beige Floppy Paper Straw Sun Hat with Removable Orange Scarf, $48.00

Betsey Johnson Felt Floppy Hat, $49.99

Jaclyn Smith Women's Wide Brim Straw Hat, $18.74


Do YOU “Live in Fashion?”

ChelleFinalPic2

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…)


Rock your Red Pumps on March 10th!

RSVP Alison

“Every 35 minutes, a woman tests positive for HIV in the United States.”

On March 10th, the US will commemorate National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD), a yearly project of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health that seeks raises awareness of the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls. In observance of this day, the 4th Annual Rock the Red Pump™ Campaign is back and encouraging women to rock their favorite pair of red pumps. Here are some fierce red pumps you may consider slipping your feet into this Saturday: (more…)


Let’s Play a Game: Superbowl Outfit Touchdown

superbowl

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


Dress Like it’s your Birthday…Everyday

white-strapless-confetti-prom-dress

When I think of birthdays, I envision multi-colored confetti sprinkled all over a room, so why not feature that kind of inspiration in your wardrobe. There should always be at least one item in your closet that screams, “Party over here!”. Add at least one glittery, muti-cored staple piece to your collection, and Happy Birthday!

punk.com

Iron Fist Twinkle Toes Platform Shoes - Multi-Colored Sequin, $50

asos.com

Rare Multi Sequin Mini Skirt, $70.08Iron Fist Twinkle Toes Platform Shoes - Multi-Colored Sequin, $50

Sterling Silver Multi Color Necklace/Earring Set, $22.99

White Strapless Confetti Dress, $110


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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A Glam Girl Event in Brooklyn

On Saturday, October 22, 2011, an event was held at Dumbo Loft, located in Brooklyn, NY, to increase awareness of breast cancer and domestic violence. Event host Luxury Style Events, LLC, founded by Suzette Taylor, provided attendees the opportunity to raise funds for the two worthy causes, as well as indulge in style and their sweet tooth.

Many vendors were on hand at the event including, Di’s Jewels & Accessories, which offered a full line of exquisite earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings in a variety of colors and styles for purchase. Autographed in Pink Ink gave guests the opportunity to explore their creative styles by spray painting t-shirts individually for every personality. And, Shelley’s Quality Lingerie made you feel sexy with featured lingerie styles from Rampage, Victoria’s Secret, Dollhouse and Badgley Misckha, which were all available for purchase at affordable prices.

The event’s headline sponsor Anu: Health and Beauty, a company which offers in-home spa services, provided manicures, pedicures and massages to get you relaxed for the rest of the evening.

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Post submitted by Jolevette.


Brooklyn Fashion Weekend Spring/Summer 2012 – Part 2

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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.


Shop for Success Event

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On Saturday, September 17th I attended an exclusive shopping event benefitting Dress for Success Worldwide.

Founded in 1997, Dress for Success is a nonprofit organization that helps low-income women find jobs and provides them with professional attire, career development tools, and a network of support in over 75 cities worldwide. Women are given a suit to wear when they land their first big interview, and may return for a second suit when they receive a job offer, so they don’t have to worry about what to wear on their first day of work.

Over the course of 2 days, September 16th & 17th, the first-of-its-kind pop-up shopping experience, was hosted by Y.E.S! New York, an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women. During the event attendees were able to snag designer and vintage merchandise at exclusive prices, while enjoying refreshments from Perrier, and snacks from The Simply Bar and Skinny Cow ice cream.

There were 3 shoe racks filled back and front with designer footwear.

Designer bags included Betsy Johnson, Donna Karen & Dooney & Bourke.

Clothing racks filled with vintage and designer apparel.

On the day I attended, it was so late in the day, that they slashed the prices even more. Keep scrolling to check out the designer duds I got for ridiculously low prices.

In addition to enjoying the low prices, guests also received mini-makeovers from Bobbi Brown make-up artists and manicures from Ginger & Liz.

Stuff I bought

XOXO tops, $10 each.

Armani Exchange watch, $25

100% of the proceeds from the sales went towards supporting Dress for Success Worldwide’s vital employment retention programs and services.


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.


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.


Do Graphic T-shit slogans go to far?

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This t-shirt was removed from J.C. Penney's website after complaints.

I found it really interesting to learn this week that JC Penny yanked a graphic t-shirt off its website after public outrage that it sent out the wrong message. The shirt reads, “I’m too pretty to do my homework so my brother has to do it for me,” and caused uproar by consumers who claimed that it sent out the wrong message to girls. They believe the phrase on the t-shirt perpetuates the idea that a girl can’t be both smart and beautiful.  When I first viewed the shirt, which is marketed to girls between the ages of 7-16, I honestly didn’t think twice about it or feel offended. I don’t believe a girl wearing that shirt will start believing the phrase to the point that she will stop doing her homework, or feel that she is too pretty to focus on school. And, I really don’t believe that this one t-shirt, amongst the hundreds of graphic shirts out there on the market, should be especially targeted for its phrase. Some shirts say things that are much worse (check out some of the ones below). At the end of the day, it comes down to freedom of speech, and if you don’t like a phrase on a t-shirt, just don’t buy it.

I Heart Rich Boys Crop Tee ($13.80)

"Hating Me Won’t Make You Pretty" Crew Tee (8.00)

"I'm not a bitch, I'm the bitch and it's ms bitch to you!" Graphic Tee ($12.70)

Hybrid Junior's Stupid Print Tee ($9.99)


End of Summer Hottest Trend – Leopard Print

Miranda Kerr poses at the David Jones Spring/Summer fashion preview on Burke Street on August 10, 2011 in Melbourne, Australia. (August 9, 2011 - Photo by Lucas Dawson/Getty Images AsiaPac)

Miranda Kerr poses at the David Jones Spring/Summer fashion preview on Burke Street on August 10, 2011 in Melbourne, Australia. (August 9, 2011 - Photo by Lucas Dawson/Getty Images AsiaPac)

I absolutely adore this season’s latest trend fixation – leopard print. It’s become the new black, or neutral, that you can wear just about anything with. It’s hard to walk into any fashion store and not find pieces with solid black spots peppered against a golden hue, mimicking the look of a leopard’s coat. Leopard print does have a sexy allure to it, and you can unleash your inner wild side with small pieces, or adorn yourself with a full-printed jumpsuit. Here are some of my faves:

Wear sexy leopard pumps to dress-up a netural-colored outfit. - Leopard Print Satin Pumps ($59.00-$66.00)

If you choose to wear a full leopard print outfit, wear solid shoes. The key to this trend is to not go too overboard. - Kardashian Kollection Women's Jersey Wrap Top Jumper

A short leopard mini is the perfect choice for a night out on the town with your girls, or with that special someone. - Alfani Dress, Short Sleeve Animal Print Front Zip Orig. ($49.99)

You can even add leopard print into your professional attire. - Leopard print blazer (26.50).

Smaill leopard-print accessories are a good way to quietly rock this trend. - Betsy Johnson Skinny Leopard Strap Square Face Watch ($125.00)


New Obsession: The Kardashian Kollection

image taken from sears.com

image taken from sears.com

So I have to admit it, I have been eagerly awaiting the launch of the Kardashian sisters new clothing line for Sears. Honestly, with the success of running their own clothing store, I was surprised that they would design a line to be featured in the stores of a major retailer, but I’m happy they did. The fashion line is exactly what I would except from the trio: figure-hugging clothes, sexy platforms, and glamorous jewelry. The line called, Kardashian Kollection, includes all of the above, in addition to sunglasses, belts, lingerie and handbags.

It was definitely no surprise that during the online 30% off 72-hour pre-sale, which launched August 8th, a majority of the items sold out quickly. Missed the pre-sale? The Kardashian Kollection is available for purchase at sears.com now, and if you use the special coupon code “Kardashian,” you can still take advantage of the 30% off deal.

The Kardashian Kollection will hit Sears stores nationwide on August 26th.

print screen from sears.com

Sampling of the Kardashian Kollection shoe line.

print screen from sears.com

Sampling of the Kardashian Kollection jewerly.