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)
Laura Smalls has been on the fashion scene since for some time; bit now she has become a household name since Michelle Obama wore one of her designs for the inauguration of President Barack Obama. A graduate of Parson’s school of Design in 1976, Laura started small selling a handful of designs at Blookingdales and Henri Bendel. Soon after, she was approached by Vogue to show at New York Fashion Week showing her one of a kind pieces and then subsequently showing a collection of evening dresses and cocktail gowns at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in South Africa.
Small’s designs are that of classic elegance, beauty and grace. She chooses fabrics that complement the design and the figure. Her pieces are truly one of a kind and designed with the individual woman in mind.
“Even though designing starts with a dream… it has to work for [a] woman.” – Laura Smalls
Delialicious Picks attended her Fall/Winter 2013 presentation a few weeks ago. Click here to read that article.
MONIF C.
Monif Clarke, CEO & Founder of Monif (Photo credit: http://monifc.com/inside-monif/)
Monif C. is unique in her own right. Not only in her style but who she dresses. This designer works specifically for the curvaceous individual allowing them to look beautiful and be themselves without worry of any fashion faux paus. Monif started her career in fashion after working in the non-profit sector and finding a lack of style and design set for the plus size woman. So, she started out on her own, traveling to London to start her own fashion house. She is now a sought after designer for plus size individuals and has been featured on Fox Business, ABC and Seventeen Magazine.
“Who Says Plus Size Can’t Be Sexy, Luxurious, and Feminine?” – Monif Clarke
B. MICHAEL
Designer B. Michael (Photo Credit: http://www.bmichaelamerica.com/bio/)
B. Michael was born a designer. He grew up in a house of style; many of his style secrets coming from his mother. After designing for Oscar DE La Renta, B. Michale decided to launch his own couture fashion line; he is now sought after for the classic woman. He has dressed Halle Berry, Angela Basset and the famous Lena Horne. He also dressed Whitney Houston in her role in”Sparkle”.
“It is a modern approach to glamour. It is also about achieving a very sophisticated, yet simplistic look. A woman who wears b Michael knows how to wear a basic dress and make it look glamorous.”
Post written by Jolevette
Laura Smalls F/W 2013 Presentation: “Symmetry”
On February 13th, I attended the F/W 2013 Presentation of Laura Smalls, held at Essex House as part of New York Fashion Week. The designer, who was catapulted onto the national scene after Michelle Obama wore two of her dresses, showcased her newest collection, ”Symmetry.” The designs were an amazing display of classic femininity meets sexy sophistication.
Body-flattering silhouettes hugged the contours of the models bodies as they emerged wearing dresses inspired from the graphic works of artist Sonia Delaunay. Teal, jade green, and pewter were amongst the colors characteristic of the beautiful evening gowns, some of which, incorporated silk fabric and shimmer detailing for a dramatic high-shine effect. A few of the garments offered peek-a-book cutouts, expertly tailored for the reserved woman who wants to show some skin without looking too risqué. The other pieces in the collection were designed with eye-catching geometrical shapes and striking color contrasts. Click on each picture below to see some of my favorites from the presentation.
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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
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.
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.
How to Re-Create 2 Hair styles from NYFW
Fashion shows are known for their display of the most fabulous, new trends in clothing; but, in addition to forecasting our stylish wardrobe, the runway also influences the upcoming season’s hottest hair trends. Below are two of my favorite looks from New York Fashion week, and how you can recreate the looks from the runway.
What: Sleek part with textured lengths
Where: Victoria Beckham Spring 2013
Inspiration: “The center part and shine on top creates a strong, even dramatic look on the Victoria Beckham girl today, but the overall style is still very youthful and American,” said Redken Creative Consultant Guido
Create the Look:
1. Create a clean center part on damp hair.
2. Blow dry just the top section of hair to just behind the ear, then spray water on the back to re-dampen & let dry naturally.
3. Spray the hairline with forceful 23 hairspray to smooth & hold.
4. Apply shine flash 02 glistening mist on the top of head.
5. Use lots of powder refresh 01 dry shampoo on the bottom third of hair to get a light fluffy effect.
What: The glossy bun
Where: Ralph Lauren Spring 2013 show
Inspiration:“…picture a very elegant Argentine woman” says Guido.
Create the Look:
1. Apply satinwear 02 prepping blow-dry lotion (currently unavailable on Redken’s website)to damp hair and blow-dry straight.
2. Create a clean center part.
3. Gather hair tightly into a ponytail at the nape and secure with an elastic.
4. Spray style with shine flash 02 glistening mist and twist up into a knot, securing with open fasteners.
5. Spray final style with fashion work 12 versatile working spray to tame frizz and flyaway’s for a sleek finish.
Photos Courtesy of Charles Sykes for Redken
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.
Vote for me in Allure’s Beauty blogger of the Year Contest!
I’m so excited to revel that Delialicious Picks was selected as a finalist for Allure Magazine’s first-ever Beauty Blogger Awards. I entered the contest on their website a couple of months ago, not thinking I even stood a chance against the many bloggers I knew would be applying, especially because my blog focuses on more than just beauty. Nonetheless, I was selected among 15 other finalists to compete for the coveted title of Beauty Blogger of the Year! Check out my bio on their website here»
I won’t be able to win this alone. I need YOU to head over to Allure’s website, and vote once every weekday when all the challenges are live. And just for voting, you’ll be eligible for some cool prizes, including a trip to Miami Beach!
The first challenge will be posted on April 23rd, I’m really hoping for all your support!
Here are the cool prizes at stake:
• Win a trip to New York City, with backstage access to a show at New York Fashion Week, attend Allure’s Best of Beauty party (and take home a suitcase stuffed with winning products worth an estimated $2,500), and go on a behind-the-scenes tour of Revlon’s headquarters to see a preview of new products.
• Be featured in a story in the October issue of Allure.
• Allure 2012 Blogger of the Year logo to be posted on winner’s website for a year.
• Have the opportunity to submit work to Allure and allure.com.
I’ll be posting a reminder on the day of the first challenge. May the best blog win!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
