Backstage Beauty: Emerson by Jackie Fraser-Swan Fall 2013
On February 10th, I went backstage at Emerson’s Fall 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Studio at Lincoln Center. The team of Red Door Spa, led by National Creative Director and Master Stylist Zahir Ziani, was responsible for the teased up-do seen on the runway. The hair, as described by Ziani, was created to look effortless and natural, “as if the model put her hair up in the pony-tail herself.” Tousled curls were created first to add volume, and hair was wrapped around the base of the pony-tail and secured with bobby pins. Only one product was used, a dry spray by Kérastase, which allowed Ziani to apply the spray repeatedly while avoiding a greasy-weighed down look.
HAIR
Stylist Zahir Ziani didn’t use any rubber bands to hold the base of the hair in place. Instead, he used the model’s own hair, which was secured with bobby pins.
MAKEUP
All of the make-up used for the show was by Bobbi Brown. Dark, rocker-chic cat eyes were created using Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in black. And, the top of brows here highlighted using Bobbi’s limited edition Sparkle Eye Shadow, a combination of shimmering pearls and fine glitter. Similar to the hair, the makeup was done to look as if the model did it herself.
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
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
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
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.”
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.
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.
William Okpo S/S 2013 Presentation
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
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
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.
Brooklyn Fashion Weekend Spring/Summer 2012 – Part 2
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
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.
The Blonds – Spring 2012 Runway Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week
On September 14, 2011, designer duo Phillipe and David Blond presented their Spring 2012 collection Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. They are the designers behind some of the most eccentric outfits worn by Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, Ke$ha and Lady Gaga. The collection featured various recreations of the looks of Playboy bunnies and featured wild pops of color, multi-colored shimmering corsets, and furry balls.
What I found interesting is that there are pieces in the collection that I would actually wear and love to own….well, maybe not the metallic Playboy bunny bodysuit. But, for once, Lady Gaga and I have a fashion label we love in common.
The Barely there makeup face at Fashion Weeks around the world
One common makeup theme during fashion week from London to New York is the lack of emphasis of the lips and cheeks. In numerous fashion shows models showed off dramatic eye looks and hair, contrasted against natural or muted lips and cheeks. Makeup during fashion week is just as important as the fashion itself, reports CNBC.com. The decisions makeup artists make during fashion week “influence what women will buy in the months to come,” but it usually takes a while for the trends to trickle down to the average consumer. Here’s how you can get the look and stay ahead of the trend:
1. Apply a tinted moisturizer. Because tinted moisturizers are sheer, your natural skin will shine through while evening out your skin complexion.
2. Use concealer sparingly on imperfections only where you really need it, such as blemishes and under eye circles.
Models at Cibeles Fashion Week A/W 2011 (From L to R: Devota & Lomba Fashion Show; Jesus del Pozo Fashion Show; Roberto Verino Fashion Show).
3. Set your makeup with translucent powder.
4. Create a natural look with warm cheek colors similar to your natural flush. You can figure out your natural skin’s blush color by pinching your cheeks. Smile and blend the color in circular motions. Try bareMinerals All-Over Face Colors, which were designed to mimic the natural dewy color of a baby’s cheeks.
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in NYC (2011 Spring Fashion Shows from L tor R: Elene Cassis; Son Jung Wan; Naeem Khan).
5. While the facial makeup was toned down during fashion week, eyes were emphasized. Use eyeliner and eyes shadow to accentuate your eyes. Coat eyelashes with mascara.
6. Use a tinted lip balm or gloss that closely matches your natural lip color. Try Smashbox O-GLOSS Intuitive Lip Gloss With Goji Berry-C Complex™. This lip gloss reacts with your skin chemistry to intuitively create your perfect subtle shade of pink.
London Fashion Week Shows from L to R: Betty Jackson Show; Central Saint Martins MA Show; Osman show.
7. Strike a pose. Hey, you don’t have to be a model at fashion week to admire just how gorgeous you are!
Seeing Red at New York Fashion Week
As I look back on the fashions that flowed down the runway at New York Fashion week, I couldn’t help but notice that scarlet red made a powerful statement in numerous shows this season. The crimson color may be Spring 2011’s new black. Perhaps the bright hue was meant to add a burst of color to contrast the white slush still lurking on the corners on NYC sidewalks. Here are my favorites:
Elie Tahari's Fall 2011 collection included rich furs and delicate chiffons.
Naeem Khan's Fall 2011 collection featured red patent embroidery and ornate prints.
The Chinese-inspired show of The Blonds' highlighted sparkly headgear, kimono-like gowns, and lots of sequins and beading.
Marchesa Fall 2011 Collection was inspired by inspired by Great Expectations' Miss Havisham.
Jimmy Choo launching shoe collection for men
“I’ve lost my Choo!” This famous line was uttered by a frantic Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) in a scene in Sex & the City when she loses one side of her beloved Jimmy Choo shoes while trying to catch the Staten Island ferry. This winter/autumn 2011, you may hear a man repeat these same exact words, because Jimmy Choo, the women’s luxury designer company, has recently unveiled collection of footwear for men. The collection, which debuted this week at Milan’s Fashion Week, includes Oxfords, biker boots, sneakers, loafers and a wide range of evening slippers with prices ranging from $595 and $1,095, in addition to a $9,000 boot made of real crocodile skin. The line has been described as reminiscent of ‘70s Mayfair playboy, and features an assortment of footwear designs from classically understated to colorful animal prints. The line is expected to be available online for purchase by the summer, and may also be offered at select department stores.
