Aza, a leading fashion house will be the presenting sponsor for the “GenNext Show”, a unique initiative by Lakme Fashion Week where ten promising designers will showcase their collections at the Autumn Winter Lakme Fashion Week 2007, which will be held at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai from March 27th to March 31st, 2007.Designers Anuj Sharma, Aneeth Arora, Debarun Mukherjee, Digvijay Singh, Kunal Rawal, Nachiket Barve, Nimita Rathod, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Vivek Karunakaran & Vivek Kumar are the gifted young talent who will display their creations at the Aza GenNext Show for the first time before a targeted group of international and domestic buyers and media.By signing on as the Associate sponsor for LFW and Presenting Sponsor for Gen Next show, Aza has reiterated their commitment to and belief in both IMG and Lakme, the two pillars of the fashion industry in India.Dr Alka Nishar of Aza, said, “As a leading fashion brand it is always been our endeavor to promote aspiring designers and be a footprint of the newest trends in the world of fashion and style. And we are confident that this association with the GenNext Show will take us further down this road.”Speaking on their association with Lakme Fashion Week, Mr. Anil Chopra, VP Lakme Lever said, “We are delighted with Aza’s support and commitment to Lakme Fashion Week. This reflects how the design conscious Fashion houses are becoming more creative by backing indigenous fashion design talent."
Saturday, March 31, 2007
‘GenNext’ designers Aza at Lakme Fashion Week 2007
Aza, a leading fashion house will be the presenting sponsor for the “GenNext Show”, a unique initiative by Lakme Fashion Week where ten promising designers will showcase their collections at the Autumn Winter Lakme Fashion Week 2007, which will be held at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai from March 27th to March 31st, 2007.Designers Anuj Sharma, Aneeth Arora, Debarun Mukherjee, Digvijay Singh, Kunal Rawal, Nachiket Barve, Nimita Rathod, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Vivek Karunakaran & Vivek Kumar are the gifted young talent who will display their creations at the Aza GenNext Show for the first time before a targeted group of international and domestic buyers and media.By signing on as the Associate sponsor for LFW and Presenting Sponsor for Gen Next show, Aza has reiterated their commitment to and belief in both IMG and Lakme, the two pillars of the fashion industry in India.Dr Alka Nishar of Aza, said, “As a leading fashion brand it is always been our endeavor to promote aspiring designers and be a footprint of the newest trends in the world of fashion and style. And we are confident that this association with the GenNext Show will take us further down this road.”Speaking on their association with Lakme Fashion Week, Mr. Anil Chopra, VP Lakme Lever said, “We are delighted with Aza’s support and commitment to Lakme Fashion Week. This reflects how the design conscious Fashion houses are becoming more creative by backing indigenous fashion design talent."
For Leona, Fashion Week's just not in vogue
Glynis Traill-Nash
SYDNEY'S loss is New York's gain. Leona Edmiston has joined other leading designers in announcing she will skip Australian Fashion Week in favour of an event in New York.
Edmiston, who has shown her trademark jersey dresses and long-line silk gowns in Sydney for the past five years, is concentrating on the overseas market.
She joins a number of designers who will show at New York Fashion Week at the expense of the Sydney event, which starts on April 30. High-profile labels Maticevski and Aurelio Costarella are also focusing solely on New York, as Willow and sass & bide have done for the past few seasons.
"Our aim was to lay all our foundations solidly before we did too much anywhere else," Edmiston said. "But we've always had our feelers out. Now I think we can grow there.
"I think all Australian designers need an export market because our market is a small one. We need it to sustain a good healthy business - we need domestic and export."
Edmiston said she was looking forward to the American show. "They love our product, so you go where they like you."Source: The Sun-Herald
Slaves to fashion
If you absolutely must have those oversized sunnies, if you've gone and got your Victoria Beckham bob or if you're considering naming your baby Supernova Strawberry Lala - take heart.Your behaviour may be shallow, slavish and unoriginal but it's perfectly normal, according to a university study. And it may even have an evolutionary basis.
Researchers at the University of Durham in the north of England studied the popularity of baby names, music and even dog breeds in an attempt to gain an insight into what drives fashions and trends in popular culture. Not surprisingly, they found that trends are driven by a small number of "innovators", usually celebrities, and followed by the majority.
"Innovators are the cool ones who 'pump' new fashions into our world,'" says researcher Dr Alex Bentley, a lecturer in anthropology. The research, published in the latest journal Evolution and Human Behaviour, also found that trends change at a steady and predictable rate. But the copying is random, which means it's impossible to predict exactly which trend will become flavour of the day. The research is good news for viral marketers, Bentley says, but the trick is identifying the innovators amongst the copy cats. Bill von Hippel, a professor of psychology at the University of Queensland, says the study backs previous research on "lead users", a term coined in the 1980s by his father, Professor Eric von Hippel. "A lead user in fashion would be a celebrity of some sort and a lead user in skiing would be the world's best," he says.
"New jeans may come out of Calvin Klein but they're just as likely to come out of movie stars and people that we like to emulate.
"Once they do something, we see them a lot and because we really like them, we're much more predisposed to think that's cool than if we see a hobo wearing the same thing.
"Celebrities are natural leaders in (the fashion) domain, scientists and politicians are the leaders in (the ideas) domain. Every domain has its own lead users.''
Von Hippel says our innate tendency to copy and imitate is probably rooted in the way we learn. "I'm not sure why it's evolved but in all probability imitation is how we learn. We do this as children and we do it as adults," he says.
But as much as we like to follow trends set by our idols, they don't always catch on immediately, von Hippel says. "When you first hear a new song or see a new fashion you typically don't like it at first ... although we're interested in new things we don't like them nearly as much as once we get to know them a little bit.
``There are evolutionary reasons for that, because if something becomes familiar it means it didn't kill you the first time.'' And while we're busy running around copying the celebrities, the celebrities themselves aren't immune from imitation. "Celebrities also jump on the bandwagon," he says - and even then there are the innovators and the imitators.
Hollywood star Angelina Jolie can apparently do no wrong by building her "rainbow family" of assorted international orphans. But when Madonna imitated Jolie by adopting her own African orphan, the public was much less tolerant.
Celebrities also show themselves to be herd animals when it comes to causes, whether it's HIV/AIDS, climate change or ending Third World poverty.
Often, the explanation doesn't need a university study.
"You just look like you're clueless and left out if you aren't at some level aware of and doing similar to what the rest of them are doing," von Hippel says.
Fashion tips for bookish types
By Sophie HexterQ: I work in a library, but I don't want to look like a librarian. I'm on my feet all day and bending over a lot, so low-cut is out of the question and flat shoes are essential. Can the bookish look stylish?
Sweet, clever, book-adoring reader, where ever did you get the impression that bookish was not stylish?
Yes, you - of the demure neckline, rectangular black glasses and discerning intellect - are the apotheosis of stylish, not to mention sexy.
Subtly subverted and quietly brimming with scholarly appeal, you're the kind of girl who gets the guy after he's finished with your (mutt rhymes with . . .) friend. You're the cherry on top, but not the one to . . .
Moving right along, I'm thinking schoolgirl geek meets chic. Pinafore or tunic dresses and high-waisted skirts or pants decked with sweet blouses or knits. Prim and proper, but certainly not prissy.
Take the Sylvester wool dress. It reminds me of something Sylvia Plath might have worn. Of a subdued mustard hue, the black trim suggests formality and the three-quarter sleeve is suitable for long, cool nights under those green-shaded library lights.
Also appropriate is Zimmerman's grey-wool pinafore dress. Worn with a puff-sleeve knit, it's chic with just a hint of geek.
Alternatively, Willow has a wonderful button-down cotton dress, which, when belted at the waist, is perfect for a day sorting books in the library aisles.
Clearly a schoolyard spin-off, the studious girl sent designers back to their drawing boards this season. The result? An "A" for "austere" in design. Slightly strict and definitely smart with just a hint of nonchalance, it's a revolt against flash-your-flesh fashion, and about time, too.
For high-waisted skirts check out Cue and Sass & Bide. The latter has designed a brilliant black version with gladiator gold-rimmed panelling on the waistband. Work it back with a blouse or little knit.
Structure (in design) equals security (for the wearer), is the cornerstone of this dressing-room discussion. You need pieces that have form without being form-fitting. Take Wayne Cooper's high-waisted black pants. Worn with flats and a pussy-bow blouse, it's the kind of outfit you'd like the heroine of your favourite book to be wearing.
Now, who ever said you shouldn't judge a book (or a bookworm) by its cover?
Sweet, clever, book-adoring reader, where ever did you get the impression that bookish was not stylish?
Yes, you - of the demure neckline, rectangular black glasses and discerning intellect - are the apotheosis of stylish, not to mention sexy.
Subtly subverted and quietly brimming with scholarly appeal, you're the kind of girl who gets the guy after he's finished with your (mutt rhymes with . . .) friend. You're the cherry on top, but not the one to . . .
Moving right along, I'm thinking schoolgirl geek meets chic. Pinafore or tunic dresses and high-waisted skirts or pants decked with sweet blouses or knits. Prim and proper, but certainly not prissy.
Take the Sylvester wool dress. It reminds me of something Sylvia Plath might have worn. Of a subdued mustard hue, the black trim suggests formality and the three-quarter sleeve is suitable for long, cool nights under those green-shaded library lights.
Also appropriate is Zimmerman's grey-wool pinafore dress. Worn with a puff-sleeve knit, it's chic with just a hint of geek.
Alternatively, Willow has a wonderful button-down cotton dress, which, when belted at the waist, is perfect for a day sorting books in the library aisles.
Clearly a schoolyard spin-off, the studious girl sent designers back to their drawing boards this season. The result? An "A" for "austere" in design. Slightly strict and definitely smart with just a hint of nonchalance, it's a revolt against flash-your-flesh fashion, and about time, too.
For high-waisted skirts check out Cue and Sass & Bide. The latter has designed a brilliant black version with gladiator gold-rimmed panelling on the waistband. Work it back with a blouse or little knit.
Structure (in design) equals security (for the wearer), is the cornerstone of this dressing-room discussion. You need pieces that have form without being form-fitting. Take Wayne Cooper's high-waisted black pants. Worn with flats and a pussy-bow blouse, it's the kind of outfit you'd like the heroine of your favourite book to be wearing.
Now, who ever said you shouldn't judge a book (or a bookworm) by its cover?
Material girl's clothes snapped up
A new clothing line designed by pop star Madonna for Swedish cheap-chic retailer H&M sold out in minutes after going on sale in Stockholm today.The collection flew off the racks in a flash, after hundreds of shoppers lined up around the block to be among the first to add the M by Madonna collection to their wardrobes.
However, the launch did not spark the stampede scenes seen in recent years when designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney and Viktor&Rolf launched lines bearing their names for H&M.
Madonna's collection included Kimono dresses, skintight pants, pencil skirts, tight-fitting blouses, as well as accessories including wide belts, purses and high-heeled shoes.
The one-time Material Girl chose neutral tones - black, white and beige - and luxury materials like silk, fine wool and cashmere.
"The collection is magnificent. Fantastic. Very trendy. It's very Madonna," Rosy Doad, a 23-year-old makeup artist who was among the first inside the H&M store on Hamngatan in central Stockholm, told Agence France-Presse.
"The line is very sophisticated, a kind of business casual, for a very powerful woman, like Madonna. It's very feminine and a little extravagant," 19-year-old musician Aky Eisenstein said.
H&M, or Hennes & Mauritz, has frequently called on celebrities to help sell its clothes in the past.
In 2004, legendary designer Lagerfeld, of Chanel, was the first to put his name to a collection for the Swedish chain.
H&M has 1,345 stores in 24 countries, and the Madonna collection was launched around the world today.
In London, about 50 shoppers poured into the chain's Oxford Street store when it opened to the sound of La Isla Bonita, one of Madonna's hits from the late 1980s.
Hong Kong shoppers got a sneak preview of Madonna's collection on March 10, when a selection of items went on sale at the opening of the H&M's first store in China.
Agencies
Posh and Becks: America's Latest Fashion Duo?
Will style-savvy Brits David and Victoria Beckham start fashion trends in the States?The British are coming! The British are coming! That's DAVID and VICTORIA BECKHAM (aka "Posh Spice"), to be exact.
to the States, after David signed with the Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team (for which he is being paid a cool $250 million) -- but the infamous Brits are also bringing their equally infamous fashion sense across the pond as well.
The duo have long made headlines on their native shores for their star style -- David's "faux-hawk" made waves in the UK, long before the celeb hairstyles of ANGELINA JOLIE's son, MADDOX, and even current "American Idol" contender SANJAYA MALAKAR.
And Mr. Beckham's keen sartorial sense has frequently been chronicled in the Brit rags. As a fashion icon, he has graced the pages of such mags as GQ, where he seems to epitomize and embrace the "metrosexual" aesthetic -- that of the masculine celeb taking part in what have classically been deemed as "feminine" concerns with style and fashion.
Of course, Victoria is no stranger to fashion herself. The former SPICE GIRL has her own fashion line, and she was frequently spotted with pal KATIE HOLMES while in France for Fashion Week. She made waves with her fashion sense at TOM and Katie's lavish wedding festivities in Italy last November, donning fab and funky couture outfits that caused a media frenzy with the paparazzi.
"Posh" has also published a book in the UK which details her love of all things fashion, titled, That Extra Half an Inch: Hair, Heels and Everything In Between.But will the fabulously fashionable duo stir up fashion trends in the American celeb scene? That remains to be seen.
Victoria Beckham's Breasts Labelled Unfashionable
Victoria Beckham has been told to cover up her braless chest by one celebrity magazine.Victoria Beckham has been criticized for her penchant for letting her breasts "hang free".US magazine told Victoria Beckham, 32, in an open letter: "You're a woman with perky breasts that apparently like to breathe. But keep shunning that bra and in five years you'll end up with pendulums.
"It added that there was "nothing posh" about Victoria Beckham's lack of a bra.
Meanwhile, Victoria Beckham appeared alongside husband David yesterday in London, with the former England captain sporting a hairstyle similar to his wife's new choppy bob, with a short back and sides.
The pair compounded their double act by wearing matching black outfits at the Sports Industry Awards in London last night, where David Beckham was handed the Outstanding Contribution to British Sport award. [CONTACTMUSIC.COM]
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Indian Fashion Week
A model presents a creation by Indian designer Satya Paul at a fashion show on the fourth day of the India fashion week Autumn/Winter 2007 in New Delhi March 24, 2007.
A model presents a creation by Indian designer Krishna Mehta at a fashion show on the third day of the India fashion week Autumn/Winter 2007 in New Delhi March 23, 2007.
Bollywood actress Esha Deol presents a creation by Indian designer Vikram Phadnis at a fashion show on the fourth day of India fashion week's Autumn/Winter 2007 collection in New Delhi March 24, 2007.
A model presents a creation by Indian designer Manish Arora during India fashion week in New Delhi March 24, 2007.
A model presents a creation by Indian designer Valaya at a fashion show on the third day of the India fashion week Autumn/Winter 2007 in New Delhi March 23, 2007.
Fashion students visit top design studios in New York
UB students got a taste of the global nature of the fashion business and clothing manufacturing when Professor Janet Albert’s Fashion Fundamentals and Advanced Textiles classes went on field trips to the New York City fashion market.
The Fashion Fundamentals class observed in operations three distinctly different clothing manufacturers. The first stop was at Liz Claiborne Inc., a $4 billion dollar major women’s and men’s clothing manufacturer.
The Fashion Fundamentals class observed in operations three distinctly different clothing manufacturers. The first stop was at Liz Claiborne Inc., a $4 billion dollar major women’s and men’s clothing manufacturer.
The students toured the design facilities, and executives in the textile and design resource library discussed design from inception to manufacturing to retailing. The executives stressed the importance of working with fashion forecasting operations, and how vital such information is to the industry.
The second stop was to Nicole Miller Inc., a trendy women’s dress manufacturer. At this stop, public relations executives discussed the relationship of fashion and public relations, and their successful licensing operation. The students toured the facility including the showroom and sample cutting room. The third stop was a visit to the executive offices of Eileen Fisher, women’s clothing manufacturer and retailer. Jenine Zeccardi, merchandising executive there and a former UB student, coordinated the visit. The students had the opportunity to have the sales and advertising director, and merchandising director discuss their roles in developing fashion products from design to production and visual merchandising at the retail level.
Our new MBA students who have a concentration in retailing were also on the market trip.
The Advanced Textiles class visited the Textile Design Group, a textile library with over 38,000 samples of various prints, yarns dyes, and weaves. This company works with designer to achieve new styling direction for the upcoming season.
This class also visited Macra Lace Co. Clelia Parisi, vice president of product development, discussed the development of new fabrics and how she works with her customers and sources new fabrics.
All of the executives discussed the global nature of the fashion business. By visiting the fashion markets, the students are able to see first hand, the operations and the global nature of a clothing manufacturer and to observe the different types of careers available in the fashion business.
The second stop was to Nicole Miller Inc., a trendy women’s dress manufacturer. At this stop, public relations executives discussed the relationship of fashion and public relations, and their successful licensing operation. The students toured the facility including the showroom and sample cutting room. The third stop was a visit to the executive offices of Eileen Fisher, women’s clothing manufacturer and retailer. Jenine Zeccardi, merchandising executive there and a former UB student, coordinated the visit. The students had the opportunity to have the sales and advertising director, and merchandising director discuss their roles in developing fashion products from design to production and visual merchandising at the retail level.
Our new MBA students who have a concentration in retailing were also on the market trip.
The Advanced Textiles class visited the Textile Design Group, a textile library with over 38,000 samples of various prints, yarns dyes, and weaves. This company works with designer to achieve new styling direction for the upcoming season.
This class also visited Macra Lace Co. Clelia Parisi, vice president of product development, discussed the development of new fabrics and how she works with her customers and sources new fabrics.
All of the executives discussed the global nature of the fashion business. By visiting the fashion markets, the students are able to see first hand, the operations and the global nature of a clothing manufacturer and to observe the different types of careers available in the fashion business.
Fashion Week LA 2007: Gen Art’s New Garde
Written by The Commodore: Shane
Past my initial disappointment that there were no new tie designs for fall 2007, Fashion Week LA has been interesting to say the least. In the fashion world, LA has been relegated to be the bastard red-headed step child.; despite our tantrums we only get bemused scoffs and patronizing pats on the heads.
Kicking off fashion week was Gen Art’s New Garde show at Ivar Studios in Hollywood. Gen Art has been the vanguard of emerging fashion talent, and this time around was no exception. Showing their wares were three up and coming talents Alms, Mintee and Hazel Brown. Giving a synopsis of the fashion front will be Ensign Lisa. Ensign Lisa is a new recruit in my fleet, as her skills to take a burlap sack and wear it like a Galliano gown are know the Empire over.
Enter Ensign Lisa:
Saturday march 17th was the Fashion week kick-off at GenArts : New Garde , a traveling showcase dedicated to emerging talent in the fashion industry. More installation than runway, the event attracted many Los Angeleno fashiontas/ fashionistos alike to survey the fresh talents.
Mintee. Feminine and boudoir-esque collection. Strong influences from Balenciaga’s bubble silhouette with touches of Lavin elegance. Overall collection was a tad too trendy and haughty for my taste.
Alms. High street contemporary casual. The pieces were very wearable yet edgy. They were versatile enough for work, day/night play, or casual outings. Excellent attention to subtle details and materials awareness. Minimal complexity. It was not about the theatrics with this collection, but rather a play on volume, form and how it drapes on the body.
Hazel Brown. Laura Ingals gone goth. The craft meets Little Women. Overall collection was very organic and tactile. The concept I got was “mousy hard working woman whose handiwork and craftsmanship has paid off”. It felt like I was in a NIN music video and Christina would burst through the doors showing these girls how to work the über macabre ingénue angle.
End Report.
Thank you Ensign Lisa, your report is to be commended in the next review.A highlight of the evening was when a random drunk girl thought it would be funny to walk on one of the installation catwalks and take a picture as if she were a model. Like a slumbering ED-209, the adjacent model wakes from sentry mode and, with efficiency and elegance, bats the girl of the stage, turning to her victim only to give a menacing hiss.
The girl got off easy; I’m surprised the model didn’t do more damage.
After Gen Arts, Losanjealous was invited to a few other “after parties” through out the week. Most were generic Hollywood fare, though my exciting moment being possibly meeting Brad Dourif. His fur vest was amazing. Oh, and being constantly asked, “Don’t you know who I am?” Note to fledging celebrities: this is possibly the worst way to get your picture taken.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Paris Fashion Week - Next stop for Manish Arora
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announced that its designer member, Manish Arora, will be the first Indian designer to showcase at the Paris Fashion Week.The Paris Fashion Week (Spring-Summer 2008) is going to be held from September 30 to October 7, 2007. After a very successful showing at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (Autumn/Winter Showcase) on March 24, Manish will show his collection in Paris. This move is in line with the FDCI’s aim, which is not just to organize fashion weeks in India, but also to promote talent and encourage and endorse exchange of talent with counterpart councils internationally.
The FDCI is exploring and leveraging its association with international fashion councils. Six of its member designers were selected to be a part of the prestigious Festival International des Arts de la Mode et de la Photographie (international fashion and photography festival), at Hyeres in the south of France from April 28 – 30, 2006.
These designers were selected by Didier Grumbach (President - Federation Francaise de la Couture Du Pret-a-Porter des Couturiers et des Createurs de Mode) and Maria Luisa (owner & buyer of one of the most reputed stores in Paris - Maria Luisa chain), who have become regulars at WIFW.Announcing the selection, Rathi Vinay Jha, Director General, FDCI said, “This is a great honour for India and a great achievement for Manish."
"Supporting designers like Manish is part of FDCI’s ongoing commitment to taking Indian fashion to the international marketplace and providing our member designers with opportunities like Paris Fashion Week. We wish him the very best.”Manish Arora said, “This is a moment of great pride for me as the first Indian designer to show at the Paris Fashion Week.
Showing there has been a dream and now that I have achieved it, I hope to keep the momentum going.”Mr Grumbach, who selected Manish for participation, said, “Manish Arora is perfection and provocation. This is what fashion must be in Paris. His collection is not folkloric but at the same time, could only have been designed by an Indian fashion designer.”
Wills Lifestyle
Wills Lifestyle
Fashion week ushers in good news for designers
The Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week started on an encouraging note for the fashion fraternity with the announcement of a fashion district in Dwarka, and concluded with some more good news as textile company orient craft announced Rs 2,000 crore investment to set up a fashion village near Manesar. Orient craft is in talks with the Fashion Design Council of India to work on a blueprint for the fashion village, that would be spread across 600 acres. "We want to set up a fashion village that would serve as an enclave, encompassing a design school, textile museum, residences, manufacturing units and showrooms, to enable the fashion and textile sectors to work at a single platform," Orient Craft Chairman and Managing Director Sudhir Dhingra told a news agency today. The first phase would see construction of about 300 acres, for which formal notification is awaited. The company envisages an initial investment of about Rs 500 crore. However, once the project is complete the total investment, including that by promoters and co-promoters, would be about Rs 2,000 crore, Dhingra said. Initially, Orient Craft Infrastructure Ltd, a standalone company, would be the strategic investor and promoter, but Dhingra said the company is inviting interested co-promoters for the project. Dhingra said he expects the entire project to be operational within a period of two years. Urban infrastructure would be in place in the next 60 days, while spaces at the complex would be offered in the next six months. "We would then be able to demarcate where would facilities like design studios and manufacturing units come up," he added. The company is talking to the FDCI and chalking out plans for the project in detail. Bureau Report
Country's biggest fashion fête comes to an end
After much razzmatazz and rapture, the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) finally comes to an end here Monday.Actors Rahul Bose and Tabu walked the glass ramp for designer Rajesh Pratap Singh, who showcased his collection - 'Deeper Love' - as farewell to the country's biggest fashion jamboree at the Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale late Sunday.
Though the ramp shows ended Sunday, the fashion week formally ends Monday
The evening kicked off with a romantic poem recited by actor Naseeruddin Shah, with the sound of heartbeats for a background score.
Singh drew inspiration from none other than the most sublime human emotion - love. An emotion that brings to mind the hues of selflessness and sacrifice, whether for one's belief or beloved.
The collection used 1940s construction with emphasis on the shoulders and 1920s' low-waist shapes. Influences from 1920s lingerie construction were also spotted in the line.
'To be a part of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Grand Finale is extremely prestigious and I am glad to be associated with a brand like Wills Lifestyle. Our association goes beyond the ramp and now my collection will be available at their stores across the country,' Singh told reporters here.
Silk, satin, leather, chiffon, georgettes and wool were treated, pleated, layered and embellished with patchwork and stitch patterns to come up with a whole range of men's and women's wear.
Colours ranging from black, grey, pink and shades of red were a part of the palette. The line offers straight-fit pants, tooth-short jackets, long coats, short dresses, shirtdresses, flared and straight skirts of varied lengths, tunics and cocktail dresses.
The menswear range went from coats, jackets and shirts to flared and straight-fit trousers. The collection was accessorised with stockings and elbow length leather gloves.
(c) Indo-Asian News Service
The evening kicked off with a romantic poem recited by actor Naseeruddin Shah, with the sound of heartbeats for a background score.
Singh drew inspiration from none other than the most sublime human emotion - love. An emotion that brings to mind the hues of selflessness and sacrifice, whether for one's belief or beloved.
The collection used 1940s construction with emphasis on the shoulders and 1920s' low-waist shapes. Influences from 1920s lingerie construction were also spotted in the line.
'To be a part of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Grand Finale is extremely prestigious and I am glad to be associated with a brand like Wills Lifestyle. Our association goes beyond the ramp and now my collection will be available at their stores across the country,' Singh told reporters here.
Silk, satin, leather, chiffon, georgettes and wool were treated, pleated, layered and embellished with patchwork and stitch patterns to come up with a whole range of men's and women's wear.
Colours ranging from black, grey, pink and shades of red were a part of the palette. The line offers straight-fit pants, tooth-short jackets, long coats, short dresses, shirtdresses, flared and straight skirts of varied lengths, tunics and cocktail dresses.
The menswear range went from coats, jackets and shirts to flared and straight-fit trousers. The collection was accessorised with stockings and elbow length leather gloves.
(c) Indo-Asian News Service
Kevan Hall Shows Edgy, Elegant Designs
Tailored wool suits with a hint of sparkle. A floor-grazing chiffon gown with surprising chinchilla sleeves. A mink hoodie. Kevan Hall's fall line was all about elegance with an edge. The designer, a favorite among Hollywood's red-carpet crowd, cl osed L.A. Fashion Week Thursday with a cosmopolitan collection of smart suits, pretty party dresses and attention-getting formal gowns made for "the urban jet-setter.""This is for the woman who is all over the world," Hall said backstage before the show. "She skips the security checkpoint. She flies private. She's our new Angelina, Victoria Beckham or Mary J. Blige." Hall sees her in brushed titanium wool trousers, a ruby herringbone skirt suit or a slim, pinstripe pantsuit in unexpected bronze. Her cocktail attire features a beaded camisole and mink hoodie ensemble and a one-shoulder, belted, pleated purple dress that looks retro and modern at the same time. Hall is known for his graceful gowns _ "We do black tie. That's our mark," he said _ and his fall collection did not disappoint. Highlights included a forest-green silk column with a taffeta sash, an empire-waist chiffon dress in iridescent amber and a black satin mermaid gown with a jeweled velvet belt. Hall showed several fur coats and capes _ a rarity on the L.A. fashion scene. Keeping with his jet-set theme, the catwalk was striped down the middle and lined with blue lights, like an airplane runway. "This is an entertainment town," he said. "The shows are about great fashion mixed with a bit of theater." Ed Hardy designer Christian Audigier embraced theatrics when he debuted his eponymous line Wednesday. Nick Cannon worked the turntables while his ex-girlfriend Kim Kardashian (and Paris Hilton pal) walked the runway. Dennis Rodman and his former teammate John Salley had seats in the front row. A 15-member choir opened the show. Audigier's "Sexpensive" collection of shirts, dresses, jackets and bags dripped with glitz: gold and rhinestones, crown and tiger designs and bold initial logos. Men's leather jackets were metallic, studded and jeweled. Guys also wore velour shorts with sleeveless hoodies and carried luggage branded with Audigier's initials. Slim jeans and sleek denim blazers were more subdued. For women, everything came in gold: jackets, blazers, leggings and a long leather duster with studs and stones. But there was also a chic black satin pantsuit and an array of silky scarf dresses in pink, orange and blue. Satin jackets for men and women were embroidered with tigers, hearts and flowers. The show was Audigier's second during Fashion Week. His tattoo-inspired Ed Hardy line took the stage on Monday. Other designers showing collections during the five-day event at Smashbox Studios included Sue Wong, Dina Bar-El, Collection bebe, Anthony Franco and Imitation of Christ.
Dubai International Fashion Week To Be Held Under The Patronage Of Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI)
Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) Plays A Crucial Role In Improving The Business Climate Of Dubai
Dubai International Fashion Week, a pioneering trade event for the regional fashion industry, will be held under the aegis of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. With a vision to be the recognised indispensable source of competitive advantage for the business community in Dubai, the DCCI plays a crucial role in helping improve the business climate of Dubai. "Dubai Chambers’ continuous support to its business community is clearly reflected by the establishment of various business groups that serves many sectors of interest. The Textile Traders Business Group is one of the most active groups which operate under the DCCIDCCI umbrella. Holding Dubai International Fashion Week in this emirate does not only reflect Dubai’s position as a regional land international business hub, but also as a main venue and destination for tourism, entertainment and fashion industries," said Engineer Hamad Mubarak Buamim, Director General of DCCI.Scheduled to be held from April 1 - 4 at the One&Only Royal Mirage Hotel, the four day trade event will see a mix of established and emerging talent present their collections to an audience of local, regional and international buyers and media. Some notable names who will mark their presence are Saks Fifth Avenue, Sauce, Baco Design, Liberty, Zerga, Touch of Class, Desert Rose and Nicole Farhi.In addition to the shows DIFW will also have an exhibition and seminars which will be open to the public. Seminars such as fashion photography and photo styling are designed to enhance skills and understanding of the business."The introduction of the Dubai International Fashion Week and the emergence of institutions such as French Fashion University Esmod highlight the city’s buoyant fashion industry. The UAE is perfectly positioned to emerge as the ’Paris of the Middle East’ as consumers here have the money, the style, the class and the culture to support a thriving fashion industry," said Advisory Board member, Tamara Hostal Director, FFUE in Dubai.Dubai is fast gaining recognition as the regional fashion hub and an event of this scale amply demonstrates the growing importance of the sector to the regional economy; DCCI’s support underscores the catalytic role DIFW is expected to have in promoting the regional fashion trade.
Dubai International Fashion Week, a pioneering trade event for the regional fashion industry, will be held under the aegis of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. With a vision to be the recognised indispensable source of competitive advantage for the business community in Dubai, the DCCI plays a crucial role in helping improve the business climate of Dubai. "Dubai Chambers’ continuous support to its business community is clearly reflected by the establishment of various business groups that serves many sectors of interest. The Textile Traders Business Group is one of the most active groups which operate under the DCCIDCCI umbrella. Holding Dubai International Fashion Week in this emirate does not only reflect Dubai’s position as a regional land international business hub, but also as a main venue and destination for tourism, entertainment and fashion industries," said Engineer Hamad Mubarak Buamim, Director General of DCCI.Scheduled to be held from April 1 - 4 at the One&Only Royal Mirage Hotel, the four day trade event will see a mix of established and emerging talent present their collections to an audience of local, regional and international buyers and media. Some notable names who will mark their presence are Saks Fifth Avenue, Sauce, Baco Design, Liberty, Zerga, Touch of Class, Desert Rose and Nicole Farhi.In addition to the shows DIFW will also have an exhibition and seminars which will be open to the public. Seminars such as fashion photography and photo styling are designed to enhance skills and understanding of the business."The introduction of the Dubai International Fashion Week and the emergence of institutions such as French Fashion University Esmod highlight the city’s buoyant fashion industry. The UAE is perfectly positioned to emerge as the ’Paris of the Middle East’ as consumers here have the money, the style, the class and the culture to support a thriving fashion industry," said Advisory Board member, Tamara Hostal Director, FFUE in Dubai.Dubai is fast gaining recognition as the regional fashion hub and an event of this scale amply demonstrates the growing importance of the sector to the regional economy; DCCI’s support underscores the catalytic role DIFW is expected to have in promoting the regional fashion trade.
Janice Dickinson Barred from Fashion Week
America’s Next Top Model former judge, Janice Dickinson, has been told to stay away from all the events of IMG, an international modeling agency with offices in New York, Paris, London, Milan and Singapore. Last week, she caused a commotion during the Los Angeles Fashion Week, which resulted to her embargo.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, she refused to accept her designated seat at the ED Hardy fashion show at Smashbox Studios. Instead, she took a seat along the edge of the runway, which supposedly belonged to Fashion week organizer Fern Mallis. Following this, Davis Factor, co-creator of Smashbox personally confronted her which prompted Dickinson to vacate her seat.
Unfortunately, all the drama increased as she reportedly claimed she'd broken her toe. Later, Dickinson was caught backstage inserting her foot into a large tub of ice reserved for sponsored beverages.
Janice Dickinson, a 52-year old self-proclaimed first supermodel, is also known as an actress, fashion photographer, author and agent. As a writer, she launched several books like No Lifeguard On Duty, Everything About Me is Fake... And I'm Perfect, and Check Please!: Dating, Mating, and Extricating. As a model, she appeared on the cover of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Cosmopolitan and Playboy among others. Her popularity escalated with her stint on America’s Next Top Model. As a notorious judge on America’s Next Top Model, she straightforwardly expressed her judgment and bold remarks, which made her a distinct feature of the show.
Prior to the fifth season of America’s Next Top Model, it was made public that Dickinson was not coming back due to her pursuit of other ventures. After her stint on America’s Next Top Model, Dickinson became busy with her own modeling agency and she also launched her own reality series with the same title, The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency.
-Kris De Leon, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: RealityTV World
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Paris fashion week rich with romance
Oliver Theyskens For Nina Ricci
At Nina Ricci`s fashion show, evening gowns of pleated fabrics and flounces were singled out most
“I did not care to choose an entire collection of colours for my first collection”, said Olivier for Reuters, after presenting his first collection, full of gray details and long evening gowns. One of such creations was seen presented to the public before by actress Reese Witherspoon at the Oscar ceremony.
Theyskens worked for Rochas before, and is now the head designer for Nina Ricci.
Mario Grauso, fashion groupation Puig president, where Nina Ricci belongs to, said the entire collection was magnificent and grand.
“Never in my entire career have I seen so many meetings connected with the collection distribution”, said Grauso.
Theyskens will design furniture for Nina Ricci as well. You san view the collection presented on the fashion show in the PHOTOGALLERY.
Theyskens worked for Rochas before, and is now the head designer for Nina Ricci.
Mario Grauso, fashion groupation Puig president, where Nina Ricci belongs to, said the entire collection was magnificent and grand.
“Never in my entire career have I seen so many meetings connected with the collection distribution”, said Grauso.
Theyskens will design furniture for Nina Ricci as well. You san view the collection presented on the fashion show in the PHOTOGALLERY.
It's Pet Fashion Week in Portland. What's your dog wearing?
Posted by ncrombieForget Paris. The fashion shows lighting up the runway in the City of Lights have nothing on the City of Roses. This week is Pet Fashion Week in Portland. (No, we are not making that up.)
The latest canine fashions will be on display at a show Thursday night at the Acadian Ballroom in Northeast Portland. Proceeds will benefit Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital's pet-loss support program.
The latest canine fashions will be on display at a show Thursday night at the Acadian Ballroom in Northeast Portland. Proceeds will benefit Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital's pet-loss support program.
Does your pooch need a little inspiration? This clip should help. Check this out if your mutt needs a little help getting hip.
L’Oréal Fashion Week Online Auction Launches Exclusive VIP Auction Packages Presented by the Fashion Design Council of Canada
An exclusive line up of fashion’s hottest items and experiences have hit the eBay auction block in support of The Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC).
An exclusive line up of fashion’s hottest items and experiences have hit the eBay auction block in support of The Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC), a non-profit organization that works to promote a sustainable fashion industry in Canada. In conjunction with L’Oréal Fashion Week, the FDCC is offering exclusive L’Oréal Fashion Week experience packages and one-of-a-kind items for auction on eBay including ...• A chance to be a roving reporter for the Fashion Television Channel • VIP passes to L’Oréal Fashion Week events• Limited edition Canadian Cool maple leaf necklaces• A makeover and fashion shoot with award-winning make-up artist Narges Ehsani and photographer David Hou• Lunch with Robin Kay (president of the FDCC) • Swag bags with over $1,000 worth of products
For more information go to: www.fdcconlineauction.com
An exclusive line up of fashion’s hottest items and experiences have hit the eBay auction block in support of The Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC), a non-profit organization that works to promote a sustainable fashion industry in Canada. In conjunction with L’Oréal Fashion Week, the FDCC is offering exclusive L’Oréal Fashion Week experience packages and one-of-a-kind items for auction on eBay including ...• A chance to be a roving reporter for the Fashion Television Channel • VIP passes to L’Oréal Fashion Week events• Limited edition Canadian Cool maple leaf necklaces• A makeover and fashion shoot with award-winning make-up artist Narges Ehsani and photographer David Hou• Lunch with Robin Kay (president of the FDCC) • Swag bags with over $1,000 worth of products
For more information go to: www.fdcconlineauction.com
Washington, DC's Most Dazzling Hit the "Dogwalk" in Fashion Show to Benefit the Washington Humane Society
Fashion for Paws, the Washington Humane Society's first annual fashion fandecirc te, will be held Saturday April 14, 2007 at the Embassy of France from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., 4101 Reservoir Road, NW. Tickets are $55 per person and all proceeds will benefit the Washington Humane Society. Fashion for Paws will be followed by an after party at 11:00 p.m. at Blue Gin in Georgetown.
Fashion for Paws will feature forty of Washington, DC's most celebrated and well-known personalities as the models. Designer doggie couture will be ready-to-wag spring 2007 and women's and men's ready-to-wear apparel spring 2007.
Models will include: Earth Echo International co-founder's Philippe Cousteau, Alexandra Cousteau, Jan Cousteau, MTV's Paul Wharton, NBC4's Lindsay Czarniak, the Apprentice LA's Aaron Altscher, Fox5's Steve Chenevey, HGTV's Kelley Hundahl, AOL's Andrew Weinstein, ABC7's Pamela Brown, Todd and Ellen Gray of Equinox, Katherine Kennedy, Marco Minuto, Tony Hudgins, Ashley Taylor, Pamela Sorenson, Jennifer Cheadle, Joe Robert III, Andrea Rodgers, Wendy Adeler, Linda Roth, Antonio Cecchi, and Hadley Gamble.
In the weeks leading up to the fashion show, many of the model participants will partake in a friendly fundraising competition. The male and female winner will be chosen based on who has raised the most money for the Washington Humane Society and will be honored during Fashion for Paws with the title "Model Washingtonian of the Year." All of the money raised will go directly to the Washington Humane Society's Good Home Guarantee, a five-year plan that promises to find a home for every adoptable dog and cat that enters the shelter by 2010. To browse all of the Fashion for Paws models please visit www.washhumane.org and click on the Fashion for Paws button on the home page. In addition, the event will feature barking beauty boutiques and luxury gift items for the posh pooch and ultra chic owner. Toka Salon and Day Spa will on board as the official salon sponsor of Fashion for Paws.
For more information please call the media contact above. To purchase tickets please contact Stacey Kranitz 202-723-5730 x204, Skrantiz@washhumane.org or visit: www.washhumane.org
The Washington Humane Society is the oldest animal protection agency in Washington, D.C. Since 1870, WHS's open door policy has served homeless, lost, and abused animals in DC providing protection from cruelty, shelter from the elements, and a second chance at a loving home. No call for help goes unanswered, and no animal is ever turned away.
Contact Info: Tara deNicolas
Tel : 240-304-9824
E-mail: TdeNicolas@washhumane.org Website : the Washington Humane Society
Fashion for Paws will feature forty of Washington, DC's most celebrated and well-known personalities as the models. Designer doggie couture will be ready-to-wag spring 2007 and women's and men's ready-to-wear apparel spring 2007.
Models will include: Earth Echo International co-founder's Philippe Cousteau, Alexandra Cousteau, Jan Cousteau, MTV's Paul Wharton, NBC4's Lindsay Czarniak, the Apprentice LA's Aaron Altscher, Fox5's Steve Chenevey, HGTV's Kelley Hundahl, AOL's Andrew Weinstein, ABC7's Pamela Brown, Todd and Ellen Gray of Equinox, Katherine Kennedy, Marco Minuto, Tony Hudgins, Ashley Taylor, Pamela Sorenson, Jennifer Cheadle, Joe Robert III, Andrea Rodgers, Wendy Adeler, Linda Roth, Antonio Cecchi, and Hadley Gamble.
In the weeks leading up to the fashion show, many of the model participants will partake in a friendly fundraising competition. The male and female winner will be chosen based on who has raised the most money for the Washington Humane Society and will be honored during Fashion for Paws with the title "Model Washingtonian of the Year." All of the money raised will go directly to the Washington Humane Society's Good Home Guarantee, a five-year plan that promises to find a home for every adoptable dog and cat that enters the shelter by 2010. To browse all of the Fashion for Paws models please visit www.washhumane.org and click on the Fashion for Paws button on the home page. In addition, the event will feature barking beauty boutiques and luxury gift items for the posh pooch and ultra chic owner. Toka Salon and Day Spa will on board as the official salon sponsor of Fashion for Paws.
For more information please call the media contact above. To purchase tickets please contact Stacey Kranitz 202-723-5730 x204, Skrantiz@washhumane.org or visit: www.washhumane.org
The Washington Humane Society is the oldest animal protection agency in Washington, D.C. Since 1870, WHS's open door policy has served homeless, lost, and abused animals in DC providing protection from cruelty, shelter from the elements, and a second chance at a loving home. No call for help goes unanswered, and no animal is ever turned away.
Contact Info: Tara deNicolas
Tel : 240-304-9824
E-mail: TdeNicolas@washhumane.org Website : the Washington Humane Society
Fashion festival's hair apparent
A HAIR tie or two would have made the perfect accessory at the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival Pop Up parade yesterday at QV.
Unfortunately, the models spent the whole parade struggling with masses of hair flinging them in the eyes as the outdoor catwalk was whipped by strong winds.
The gals indoors in the Metalicus showing at 101 Collins St had more luck with their cute, streamlined bobs.
Monday, March 5, 2007
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Skinny models ban for Fashion Week
ORGANISERS of Australian Fashion Week are moving to introduce healthy weight guidelines for models, as doctors say the waif-thin young women promote eating disorders.
Fashion week boss Simon Lock said the industry had approached the issue responsibly.
“We don't want to see young girls hurting themselves in any way,” he told ABC TV.
The guidelines, similar to those existing in Spain and Italy, should be in place in time for next month's Australian Fashion Week, from April 30 to May 4.
The move coincides with Australian Medical Association (AMA) calls on the Federal Government to introduce healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) guidelines for fashion models to address eating disorders among young people.
BMI is a measure of the weight of a person scaled according to height.
The debate over waif-thin models, and body image, intensified last year when the organisers of the Madrid fashion week banned models with a BMI of less than 18.
According to the scale, people are considered underweight if they have a BMI below 18.5.
Fashion week boss Simon Lock said the industry had approached the issue responsibly.
“We don't want to see young girls hurting themselves in any way,” he told ABC TV.
The guidelines, similar to those existing in Spain and Italy, should be in place in time for next month's Australian Fashion Week, from April 30 to May 4.
The move coincides with Australian Medical Association (AMA) calls on the Federal Government to introduce healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) guidelines for fashion models to address eating disorders among young people.
BMI is a measure of the weight of a person scaled according to height.
The debate over waif-thin models, and body image, intensified last year when the organisers of the Madrid fashion week banned models with a BMI of less than 18.
According to the scale, people are considered underweight if they have a BMI below 18.5.
Fashion-fest won't be heavied on models
Georgina Safe, Fashion editor
THE debate over too-skinny models has overshadowed the launch of the Melbourne Fashion Festival.
While young models at the opening of the week-long festival last night appeared much healthier than their overseas counterparts, the Australian Medical Association demanded the federal Government introduce a minimum body mass index for models.
"Body image and self-esteem among teenagers and young women in particular are heavily influenced by models," said AMA president Mukesh Haikerwal. "We need to do something soon to prevent young people, especially girls, harming themselves in the pursuit of a false idea."
While the Australian fashion industry has so far refused to introduce a minimum BMI for models, MFF organisers had a nutritionist on hand at its castings to advise on any issues relating to models' weight and height.
"The (festival) takes a positive stance on fashion, and supports aspiring models who are healthy," said MFF director Karen Webster.
Organisers from the rival Australian Fashion Week denied the need for government regulation.
"We don't believe that legislation is required at this time," said AFW founder Simon Lock.
Mr Lock said AFW would release its own policies relating to underweight models later this month.
The MFF, which presents runway shows from today until Saturday, is Australia's largest retail fashion festival. Tina Kalivas, Life with Bird, Alice McCall and Marnie Skillings are among the labels taking part this week.
While Sydney's Australian Fashion Week targets critics and buyers, the MFF sells tickets to the public.
Kathy Ward, the director of Chic modelling agency, said she supported the AMA's call to action.
"It's good to investigate getting some people together and working out what the best plan of action is," Ms Ward said. "I don't believe (poor body image) is totally fashion industry-driven, but we are happy to accommodate some discussions on it."
She would be "happy to entertain a minimum BMI", but said "what really has to change is the standard sample size that the fashion industry uses".
THE debate over too-skinny models has overshadowed the launch of the Melbourne Fashion Festival.
While young models at the opening of the week-long festival last night appeared much healthier than their overseas counterparts, the Australian Medical Association demanded the federal Government introduce a minimum body mass index for models.
"Body image and self-esteem among teenagers and young women in particular are heavily influenced by models," said AMA president Mukesh Haikerwal. "We need to do something soon to prevent young people, especially girls, harming themselves in the pursuit of a false idea."
While the Australian fashion industry has so far refused to introduce a minimum BMI for models, MFF organisers had a nutritionist on hand at its castings to advise on any issues relating to models' weight and height.
"The (festival) takes a positive stance on fashion, and supports aspiring models who are healthy," said MFF director Karen Webster.
Organisers from the rival Australian Fashion Week denied the need for government regulation.
"We don't believe that legislation is required at this time," said AFW founder Simon Lock.
Mr Lock said AFW would release its own policies relating to underweight models later this month.
The MFF, which presents runway shows from today until Saturday, is Australia's largest retail fashion festival. Tina Kalivas, Life with Bird, Alice McCall and Marnie Skillings are among the labels taking part this week.
While Sydney's Australian Fashion Week targets critics and buyers, the MFF sells tickets to the public.
Kathy Ward, the director of Chic modelling agency, said she supported the AMA's call to action.
"It's good to investigate getting some people together and working out what the best plan of action is," Ms Ward said. "I don't believe (poor body image) is totally fashion industry-driven, but we are happy to accommodate some discussions on it."
She would be "happy to entertain a minimum BMI", but said "what really has to change is the standard sample size that the fashion industry uses".
Madonna: I Ignore British Women's Fashion
She sticks with her jogging outfit...
Madonna has insulted the women of her adopted country by revealing she ignores their fashion sense.
The trend-setting American singer, who has lived in London for much of her married life with British movie director Guy Ritchie, says she is so unconcerned with UK fashion she spends most of the time in her jogging outfit.
She tells Elle magazine, “I don't pay much attention to British women's style. I just run around in my tracksuit with my sunglasses on."
Charming!
Madonna has insulted the women of her adopted country by revealing she ignores their fashion sense.
The trend-setting American singer, who has lived in London for much of her married life with British movie director Guy Ritchie, says she is so unconcerned with UK fashion she spends most of the time in her jogging outfit.
She tells Elle magazine, “I don't pay much attention to British women's style. I just run around in my tracksuit with my sunglasses on."
Charming!
Men's Fashion Blazer with brown buttons is stylish break with tradition
By Lois Fenton
A navy blue blazer is an essential garment for every man. It's a versatile item that can take him to many occasions and help him feel at ease. Because the style is so versatile, many men own more than one. Each can have a different purpose and attitude.
The most conservative choice is the basic navy blazer with brass buttons. It goes with gray flannel trousers or khaki (and occasionally white) cotton pants. Historically, it is a rather casual outgrowth of the original design worn by yachtsmen.
In recent years, the navy blazer has become even more of a mainstay in a man's wardrobe, but it also has picked up some variations. Today's well-dressed guy might wear one for semi-dressy occasions, for business casual, for blue-jean casual, even for club-dressing. It is a staple that can go in many directions, depending on several factors. Beside the jacket's buttons, the fabric, the cut, and the shirt it covers all influence the overall look.
The buttons can provide a note of dash and style. Brass, though shiny, is the most standard (ordinary). Genuine horn and not-so-genuine plastic buttons come in black, navy or the brown buttons you purchased. Dark buttons offer a note of elegance; black or navy is the most dressy; brown is a bit less so and a bit more stylish.
Blazer fabrics range from fine worsted wool, to nubby hopsacking, to cotton poplin.
The cut can be single- or double-breasted with a single back vent, double English vents, or no vents. Lapels can be notched or peaked. The closing is most often two-button or three-button (and occasionally the super-current one-button).
The shirt worn with the blazer offers unlimited possibilities: cotton knit polos, Oxford cloth solid-color button-downs, dressier broadcloths, bold stripes, splashy plaids, fashion-forward silk knits, even turtlenecks.
A navy blazer with brown buttons works especially well with dress pants in khaki or taupe. For a natty Palm Beach or Newport look, I often suggest having your tailor substitute white pearl buttons -- after Memorial Day and until Labor Day. Of course, not every guy would love this look or care to be bothered taking them back to the tailor when summer ends.
The best way to assure that you won't look as if your navy blazer is the jacket from a blue suit is to wear it with any color pants other than navy: gray, khaki, olive, off-white wool, white cotton "duck," and jeans in white or blue. At Fashion Week in New York recently, I saw navy jackets with black pants, and the combination worked.
Send questions to Lois Fenton, Men's Fashion, c/o The Commercial Appeal, 495 Union, Memphis, 38103, or e-mail Lois.Fenton@prodigy.net.
A navy blue blazer is an essential garment for every man. It's a versatile item that can take him to many occasions and help him feel at ease. Because the style is so versatile, many men own more than one. Each can have a different purpose and attitude.
The most conservative choice is the basic navy blazer with brass buttons. It goes with gray flannel trousers or khaki (and occasionally white) cotton pants. Historically, it is a rather casual outgrowth of the original design worn by yachtsmen.
In recent years, the navy blazer has become even more of a mainstay in a man's wardrobe, but it also has picked up some variations. Today's well-dressed guy might wear one for semi-dressy occasions, for business casual, for blue-jean casual, even for club-dressing. It is a staple that can go in many directions, depending on several factors. Beside the jacket's buttons, the fabric, the cut, and the shirt it covers all influence the overall look.
The buttons can provide a note of dash and style. Brass, though shiny, is the most standard (ordinary). Genuine horn and not-so-genuine plastic buttons come in black, navy or the brown buttons you purchased. Dark buttons offer a note of elegance; black or navy is the most dressy; brown is a bit less so and a bit more stylish.
Blazer fabrics range from fine worsted wool, to nubby hopsacking, to cotton poplin.
The cut can be single- or double-breasted with a single back vent, double English vents, or no vents. Lapels can be notched or peaked. The closing is most often two-button or three-button (and occasionally the super-current one-button).
The shirt worn with the blazer offers unlimited possibilities: cotton knit polos, Oxford cloth solid-color button-downs, dressier broadcloths, bold stripes, splashy plaids, fashion-forward silk knits, even turtlenecks.
A navy blazer with brown buttons works especially well with dress pants in khaki or taupe. For a natty Palm Beach or Newport look, I often suggest having your tailor substitute white pearl buttons -- after Memorial Day and until Labor Day. Of course, not every guy would love this look or care to be bothered taking them back to the tailor when summer ends.
The best way to assure that you won't look as if your navy blazer is the jacket from a blue suit is to wear it with any color pants other than navy: gray, khaki, olive, off-white wool, white cotton "duck," and jeans in white or blue. At Fashion Week in New York recently, I saw navy jackets with black pants, and the combination worked.
Send questions to Lois Fenton, Men's Fashion, c/o The Commercial Appeal, 495 Union, Memphis, 38103, or e-mail Lois.Fenton@prodigy.net.
Paris Shows Turn Fashion Into Theater
By JOELLE DIDERICH
In the theater of fashion, every catwalk show is a ten-minute play.
British designer John Galliano staged an electrifying performance on Saturday, turning the inside of an old market hall into a faded mansion where an aristocratic older woman and her toy-boy husband greeted strange and extraordinary guests.
To the strains of accordion music, characters like a sailor and a bearded groundskeeper with two Labrador dogs mingled with celebrities including pop diva Kylie Minogue, amid banquet tables and Persian carpets littered with playing cards and straw.
"It's quite decadent. We are very open-minded," joked Marc de Lacharriere, a high-powered French executive who was playing host for the evening.
Galliano, who is famed for his over-the-top catwalk displays, drew criticism from fashion editors last season when he attempted a more straightforward presentation. With this extravagant show, he appeared to send his bosses a clear message: "Don't fence me in."
But he also made sure the theatrical setting did not overshadow the clothes, which ranged from his trademark bias-cut satin gowns to Empire-line cropped coats with leg-o'-mutton sleeves and bustle backs.
Models with wet-look bobs and smudged makeup flashed saucy garter belts under transparent black negliges. Model-of-the-moment Agyness Deyn vamped it up in a wine-colored bustier dress whose layers were worked into oversized whorls.
Galliano took his bow in a silk dressing gown to rapturous applause.
Jean Paul Gaultier chose a real-life theater for his show for Hermes on Saturday, sending out elegant biker chicks in jackets made from crocodile leather lined with shaved mink and trimmed with sable fur.
"I think it's perfectly appropriate for Hermes, because women last century were on horses and now they are riding motorbikes," the French designer said, referring to the company's saddlemaker roots.
Slim riding pants were tucked into knee-length boots and topped with floor-sweeping coats that gave the models a swaggering allure.
Hermes offered plenty of new variations on its coveted Kelly handbags, including a fur-lined version that did double duty as a muff. The wealth of luxurious details made some guests wish they had brought binoculars to appreciate them up close.
British designer Alexander McQueen went one step further, using a rock concert venue to show a collection inspired by his ancestor Elizabeth How, who was hanged at the Salem with trials in 1692.
Models walked the length of a red pentagram traced in black sand under an inverted pyramid that served as a screen for macabre video images including swarming bees, naked women and a Satan-like figure whose face melted in flames.
The sinister staging, coupled with the distance of the models, all but overshadowed outfits including pod-shaped coats with leather leggings, a gold sequin catsuit with a solid gold breastplate and a floorlength green velvet dress embroidered with gold flames.
The mood was altogether more joyous at Kenzo, where 14 dancers from the Paris Opera took to the floor with life-sized rag dolls to strut a spirited tango.
Rippling skirts with giant rose prints and poncho-style capes in tartan prints punctuated the Argentine-flavored display. Sardinian designer Antonio Marras said the elaborate staging was designed for maximum visual impact.
"It's very important, because these ten minutes are the culmination of six months' work," he told reporters. "I have the duty of communicating a very precise message."
Anticipation was high at Chloe, where Swedish designer Paulo Melim Andersson was making his debut, but the only spectacle was the arrival of Australian pop diva Kylie Minogue, the first major celebrity sighted since the start of Paris fashion week.
Andersson succeeds Phoebe Philo, who cemented the French label's reputation for subtle femininity. His freshman effort suggested no dramatic shift.
"I'm inspired by a woman who is the opposite of drama, a woman who is effortless and uncontrived," he said in a statement.
Models paraded in breezy sack dresses with loose pleats or diagonal zips, mostly in black and a tangy shade that was amusingly dubbed "BBC Regency drama lipstick orange." Bold abstract prints owed a clear debt to Italian label Marni, his previous employer.
But a white tunic embroidered with silver and white sequined circles was vintage Chloe, and the oversized Elvire bag in lacquered ostrich leather should quickly generate a waiting list.
© 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.
In the theater of fashion, every catwalk show is a ten-minute play.
British designer John Galliano staged an electrifying performance on Saturday, turning the inside of an old market hall into a faded mansion where an aristocratic older woman and her toy-boy husband greeted strange and extraordinary guests.
To the strains of accordion music, characters like a sailor and a bearded groundskeeper with two Labrador dogs mingled with celebrities including pop diva Kylie Minogue, amid banquet tables and Persian carpets littered with playing cards and straw.
"It's quite decadent. We are very open-minded," joked Marc de Lacharriere, a high-powered French executive who was playing host for the evening.
Galliano, who is famed for his over-the-top catwalk displays, drew criticism from fashion editors last season when he attempted a more straightforward presentation. With this extravagant show, he appeared to send his bosses a clear message: "Don't fence me in."
But he also made sure the theatrical setting did not overshadow the clothes, which ranged from his trademark bias-cut satin gowns to Empire-line cropped coats with leg-o'-mutton sleeves and bustle backs.
Models with wet-look bobs and smudged makeup flashed saucy garter belts under transparent black negliges. Model-of-the-moment Agyness Deyn vamped it up in a wine-colored bustier dress whose layers were worked into oversized whorls.
Galliano took his bow in a silk dressing gown to rapturous applause.
Jean Paul Gaultier chose a real-life theater for his show for Hermes on Saturday, sending out elegant biker chicks in jackets made from crocodile leather lined with shaved mink and trimmed with sable fur.
"I think it's perfectly appropriate for Hermes, because women last century were on horses and now they are riding motorbikes," the French designer said, referring to the company's saddlemaker roots.
Slim riding pants were tucked into knee-length boots and topped with floor-sweeping coats that gave the models a swaggering allure.
Hermes offered plenty of new variations on its coveted Kelly handbags, including a fur-lined version that did double duty as a muff. The wealth of luxurious details made some guests wish they had brought binoculars to appreciate them up close.
British designer Alexander McQueen went one step further, using a rock concert venue to show a collection inspired by his ancestor Elizabeth How, who was hanged at the Salem with trials in 1692.
Models walked the length of a red pentagram traced in black sand under an inverted pyramid that served as a screen for macabre video images including swarming bees, naked women and a Satan-like figure whose face melted in flames.
The sinister staging, coupled with the distance of the models, all but overshadowed outfits including pod-shaped coats with leather leggings, a gold sequin catsuit with a solid gold breastplate and a floorlength green velvet dress embroidered with gold flames.
The mood was altogether more joyous at Kenzo, where 14 dancers from the Paris Opera took to the floor with life-sized rag dolls to strut a spirited tango.
Rippling skirts with giant rose prints and poncho-style capes in tartan prints punctuated the Argentine-flavored display. Sardinian designer Antonio Marras said the elaborate staging was designed for maximum visual impact.
"It's very important, because these ten minutes are the culmination of six months' work," he told reporters. "I have the duty of communicating a very precise message."
Anticipation was high at Chloe, where Swedish designer Paulo Melim Andersson was making his debut, but the only spectacle was the arrival of Australian pop diva Kylie Minogue, the first major celebrity sighted since the start of Paris fashion week.
Andersson succeeds Phoebe Philo, who cemented the French label's reputation for subtle femininity. His freshman effort suggested no dramatic shift.
"I'm inspired by a woman who is the opposite of drama, a woman who is effortless and uncontrived," he said in a statement.
Models paraded in breezy sack dresses with loose pleats or diagonal zips, mostly in black and a tangy shade that was amusingly dubbed "BBC Regency drama lipstick orange." Bold abstract prints owed a clear debt to Italian label Marni, his previous employer.
But a white tunic embroidered with silver and white sequined circles was vintage Chloe, and the oversized Elvire bag in lacquered ostrich leather should quickly generate a waiting list.
© 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.
DC Fashion Week Highlights the Betsey Johnson Spring 2007 Collection
By Adenike Olanrewaju
There was a palpable energy in the air as leggy models strutted the latest creations of Betsey Johnson's Spring 2007 line at Club Avenue yesterday; hundreds of people waited in the cold rain for a glimpse of sunny, un-rainy-like fashion. 
Adorned in a mêlée of floral designs, prints and stripes, the ladies of the catwalk showcased the designer's latest threads of mini-dresses and tunics with springy pastels as anticipatory items for the upcoming fashion cycle. This showcase marked the second day of the District's perpetually popular D.C. Fashion Week, which runs from March to March 5.
With approximately 200 screaming patrons -- mostly hipsters, fashion enthusiasts and socialite-wannabes -- rocking it out to the self-described "alternative post-punk" band The Opposite Sex, the women of the night donned apparel that could only be described in two words: funky and fun. A crowd favorite that emerged numerous times during the show, the ultra short textured ruffle dress was an item many women —- and even some men -— hoped to have in their closets this season.
In addition to her signature prints, Betsey Johnson's funky fan base should expect the baby-doll trend and the reemergence of last fall's parachute skirt to hit retail locations. And as with practically every previous spring collection in the past decade, fashionistas should also expect a demure color palette of nudes and soft earthy tones from this popular designer. Not surprisingly, the red lip will be a popular companion with these colors this spring, for its propensity to "pop" when paired with neutral color.
To round off her lineup, also expect from the Johnson line chunky mules and slides encrusted in rhinestones, a welcomed change from the classic pump often found during the spring ensemble.
As the fashion world's aging wild child, Johnson has remained a style staple, with a career spanning four decades. Edgy, funky and sexy, Betsey, with her Raggedy-Ann-inspired hair and eclectic personal fashion choices, herself describes her creations on her website, www.betseyjohnson.com: "Like red lipstick on the mouth, my products wake up and brighten and bring the wearer to life…drawing attention to her beauty and specialness…her moods and movements…her dreams and fantasies."Last night was no exception, as her line was flattering, fashion-forward, and as always, fun.
Loyal B.J. fans will be pleased with what spring holds
Adorned in a mêlée of floral designs, prints and stripes, the ladies of the catwalk showcased the designer's latest threads of mini-dresses and tunics with springy pastels as anticipatory items for the upcoming fashion cycle. This showcase marked the second day of the District's perpetually popular D.C. Fashion Week, which runs from March to March 5.
With approximately 200 screaming patrons -- mostly hipsters, fashion enthusiasts and socialite-wannabes -- rocking it out to the self-described "alternative post-punk" band The Opposite Sex, the women of the night donned apparel that could only be described in two words: funky and fun. A crowd favorite that emerged numerous times during the show, the ultra short textured ruffle dress was an item many women —- and even some men -— hoped to have in their closets this season.
In addition to her signature prints, Betsey Johnson's funky fan base should expect the baby-doll trend and the reemergence of last fall's parachute skirt to hit retail locations. And as with practically every previous spring collection in the past decade, fashionistas should also expect a demure color palette of nudes and soft earthy tones from this popular designer. Not surprisingly, the red lip will be a popular companion with these colors this spring, for its propensity to "pop" when paired with neutral color.
To round off her lineup, also expect from the Johnson line chunky mules and slides encrusted in rhinestones, a welcomed change from the classic pump often found during the spring ensemble.
As the fashion world's aging wild child, Johnson has remained a style staple, with a career spanning four decades. Edgy, funky and sexy, Betsey, with her Raggedy-Ann-inspired hair and eclectic personal fashion choices, herself describes her creations on her website, www.betseyjohnson.com: "Like red lipstick on the mouth, my products wake up and brighten and bring the wearer to life…drawing attention to her beauty and specialness…her moods and movements…her dreams and fantasies."Last night was no exception, as her line was flattering, fashion-forward, and as always, fun.
Loyal B.J. fans will be pleased with what spring holds
Prom fashion show planned for March 11
The Yellow Brick Road is having their Red Carpet Event Prom Fashion Show from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 11, in the Don Morris Room at Marshall University.
The show will reflect the latest styles and colors for Prom 2007. Sponsors and business participating in the event will be Mike Winland Studios, Garrison Florist, Zontanevo Spa, Sculptures Nails and Tanning, Classy Limo, YTB Travel Agency and Independent Beauty Consultants.
Door prizes will be given by Boston Beanery, Show of Hands, Outback Steak House, Macks & Erma’s, Tips and Toes Spa, Headz or Nailz Salon, Mirror Mirror, Beauty Solutions and others. A portion of the $3 donation will go to local schools for their prom committees.
The show will reflect the latest styles and colors for Prom 2007. Sponsors and business participating in the event will be Mike Winland Studios, Garrison Florist, Zontanevo Spa, Sculptures Nails and Tanning, Classy Limo, YTB Travel Agency and Independent Beauty Consultants.
Door prizes will be given by Boston Beanery, Show of Hands, Outback Steak House, Macks & Erma’s, Tips and Toes Spa, Headz or Nailz Salon, Mirror Mirror, Beauty Solutions and others. A portion of the $3 donation will go to local schools for their prom committees.
Fashion, films for Rachael
By SOPHIE FOWLER
GRACING the pages of fashion magazines and appearing in Hollywood movies might be the fantasy of every young woman but for former Riverside High School student Rachael Taylor, it's a reality. The 22-year-old Sydney-based actor recently finished filming her first major role in Transformers: The Movie, which is due to hit screens next month, and she has appeared in an eight-page fashion shoot in the March issue of InStyle magazine on sale now.She can also be seen modelling jewellery in the latest Jan Logan catalogue.Taylor's big break follows smaller roles in a number of US productions including a telemovie about Natalie Wood and the making of Dynasty (where she played Catherine Oxenburg) and the horror movies Man-Thing and See No Evil.She also played Sasha Forbes on the short-lived Australian drama series headLand and was nominated for a 2006 Logie Award for her role (most popular new talent) despite the show having been removed from television two months earlier.Taylor moved from Launceston to Sydney to further her acting career at 16.She studied politics and history at the University of Sydney before deferring her arts/law degree to appear on headLand - the show she credited for having given her the impetus to try her luck in the US.The Launceston-born screen siren told InStyle that the ensuing whirlwind adventure - a dinner party with Hugh Jackman, US Vogue editor Anna Wintor and Rupert Murdoch; a meeting with Titanic titan James Cameron; on- set visits from Transformers executive producer Steven Spielberg; and a subsequent role in the thriller Shatter - hadn't gone to her head."I thought I'd be making coffee for a couple of months and then maybe make a little indie film," she said."I just spent six months of my life running away from aliens and shooting machine guns."It's hard to take yourself too seriously when you're doing something so fun and outrageous.
"Have something to say on this story? E-mail the Editor, phone (03) 6336 7355 or fax (03) 6334 7328. Have a comment on this site? Give us your feedback.
GRACING the pages of fashion magazines and appearing in Hollywood movies might be the fantasy of every young woman but for former Riverside High School student Rachael Taylor, it's a reality. The 22-year-old Sydney-based actor recently finished filming her first major role in Transformers: The Movie, which is due to hit screens next month, and she has appeared in an eight-page fashion shoot in the March issue of InStyle magazine on sale now.She can also be seen modelling jewellery in the latest Jan Logan catalogue.Taylor's big break follows smaller roles in a number of US productions including a telemovie about Natalie Wood and the making of Dynasty (where she played Catherine Oxenburg) and the horror movies Man-Thing and See No Evil.She also played Sasha Forbes on the short-lived Australian drama series headLand and was nominated for a 2006 Logie Award for her role (most popular new talent) despite the show having been removed from television two months earlier.Taylor moved from Launceston to Sydney to further her acting career at 16.She studied politics and history at the University of Sydney before deferring her arts/law degree to appear on headLand - the show she credited for having given her the impetus to try her luck in the US.The Launceston-born screen siren told InStyle that the ensuing whirlwind adventure - a dinner party with Hugh Jackman, US Vogue editor Anna Wintor and Rupert Murdoch; a meeting with Titanic titan James Cameron; on- set visits from Transformers executive producer Steven Spielberg; and a subsequent role in the thriller Shatter - hadn't gone to her head."I thought I'd be making coffee for a couple of months and then maybe make a little indie film," she said."I just spent six months of my life running away from aliens and shooting machine guns."It's hard to take yourself too seriously when you're doing something so fun and outrageous.
"Have something to say on this story? E-mail the Editor, phone (03) 6336 7355 or fax (03) 6334 7328. Have a comment on this site? Give us your feedback.
Stella McCartney's Fashion Show
The famous British designer and daughter of Beatle Paul presented her fall/winter collection.
Her models look simply fantastic. McCartney combines the impossible – wide woollen shirt tunics and knitted skirts, cardigans, and cashmere tops.
By using bright, striking colours, and both heavy and light materials, she has created the impression of chaos and simplicity.
You can see some of this in the PHOTO GALLERY.
It is important to note that Stella was the first British designer who implemented the decision that no skinny models should be on catwalks.
All the models on her catwalk wear the size 38.
Her models look simply fantastic. McCartney combines the impossible – wide woollen shirt tunics and knitted skirts, cardigans, and cashmere tops.
By using bright, striking colours, and both heavy and light materials, she has created the impression of chaos and simplicity.
You can see some of this in the PHOTO GALLERY.
It is important to note that Stella was the first British designer who implemented the decision that no skinny models should be on catwalks.
All the models on her catwalk wear the size 38.
Pop in for a fashion leg-up
Holly Lloyd-McDonald, fashion reporter
SEXY legs will pop up in the city from Monday in the first of many runway parades to kick off the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival.
The Herald Sun can today reveal that the City Square, on the corner of Collins and Swanston streets, will host the first of four Herald Sun/City of Melbourne Pop Up, Pop In, Pop Out parades featuring sexy stockinged legs from Jonathan Aston and Levante.
Making her debut will be Wangaratta schoolgirl Cassandra Greskie, who won the Herald Sun's Pop Girl Model Search in January.
Cassandra has made several trips to Melbourne to meet hairdressers and make-up artists and for lessons in posing and walking.
The secret Pop Up parades are a highlight of the festival, which will be launched tomorrow night on the lawns of Government House.
The idea for the pop-up parades was sparked by several international designers, including Comme des Garcons, who set up temporary shops in raw spaces in the German capital, Berlin.
Monday's first Pop Up hosiery parade will show the latest looks for winter, including tights, over-the-knee socks and stockings in rib, lace and tartans.
Herald Sun showbags will be handed out to the first 250 people at the 8.15am parade.
Net link: www.lmff.com.au
SEXY legs will pop up in the city from Monday in the first of many runway parades to kick off the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival.
The Herald Sun can today reveal that the City Square, on the corner of Collins and Swanston streets, will host the first of four Herald Sun/City of Melbourne Pop Up, Pop In, Pop Out parades featuring sexy stockinged legs from Jonathan Aston and Levante.
Making her debut will be Wangaratta schoolgirl Cassandra Greskie, who won the Herald Sun's Pop Girl Model Search in January.
Cassandra has made several trips to Melbourne to meet hairdressers and make-up artists and for lessons in posing and walking.
The secret Pop Up parades are a highlight of the festival, which will be launched tomorrow night on the lawns of Government House.
The idea for the pop-up parades was sparked by several international designers, including Comme des Garcons, who set up temporary shops in raw spaces in the German capital, Berlin.
Monday's first Pop Up hosiery parade will show the latest looks for winter, including tights, over-the-knee socks and stockings in rib, lace and tartans.
Herald Sun showbags will be handed out to the first 250 people at the 8.15am parade.
Net link: www.lmff.com.au
Fashion shows
If you're looking for an excuse to get dressed up tonight, two fashion fundraisers will spotlight local designers.
The 15th annual Diva event, this year themed "The Adventures of SuperDivas," will feature original fashion from 30 local designers including Joy Teiken, whose glamorous dress line Joynoelle is known beyond the Twin Cities; Katherine Gerdes of "Project Runway" fame; and Jason Hammerberg, formerly of Kuhlman, who is now producing his own custom-tailored line as well as baby clothes. The show, at International Market Square, also will include emerging designers and promising students from the Minneapolis Community and Technical College.
But more than the runway show, Diva is always a rocking party, with cocktails, dinner, live auction, DJ and dancing into the wee hours. Perhaps because it's the most irreverent of the annual fundraisers, the crowd is sure to include a bevy of local trendsetters, stylists and fashion insiders. In other words: A formal ball gown is not required, but looking fabulous is expected.
Even if you don't have a ticket for the dinner ($100-$150), you can still get into the fashion show and after-party. Tickets at the door are $50, and proceeds support local AIDS service organizations. The show starts at 8 p.m. For more, visit www.divamn.org.
Across town at the Weisman Art Museum, the University of Minnesota's Lions Children's Hearing Center is hosting an evening of wine and cheese tasting with a fashion show featuring 10 local designers including Annalyse Clothing and the big-band sounds of the Andy Artz Society Orchestra. Tickets are $30, and proceeds will fund research on childhood deafness. The event runs from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. — Allison Kaplan
The 15th annual Diva event, this year themed "The Adventures of SuperDivas," will feature original fashion from 30 local designers including Joy Teiken, whose glamorous dress line Joynoelle is known beyond the Twin Cities; Katherine Gerdes of "Project Runway" fame; and Jason Hammerberg, formerly of Kuhlman, who is now producing his own custom-tailored line as well as baby clothes. The show, at International Market Square, also will include emerging designers and promising students from the Minneapolis Community and Technical College.
But more than the runway show, Diva is always a rocking party, with cocktails, dinner, live auction, DJ and dancing into the wee hours. Perhaps because it's the most irreverent of the annual fundraisers, the crowd is sure to include a bevy of local trendsetters, stylists and fashion insiders. In other words: A formal ball gown is not required, but looking fabulous is expected.
Even if you don't have a ticket for the dinner ($100-$150), you can still get into the fashion show and after-party. Tickets at the door are $50, and proceeds support local AIDS service organizations. The show starts at 8 p.m. For more, visit www.divamn.org.
Across town at the Weisman Art Museum, the University of Minnesota's Lions Children's Hearing Center is hosting an evening of wine and cheese tasting with a fashion show featuring 10 local designers including Annalyse Clothing and the big-band sounds of the Andy Artz Society Orchestra. Tickets are $30, and proceeds will fund research on childhood deafness. The event runs from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. — Allison Kaplan
Bahrain : A Tale of Two Seas Fashion show
Filipino designer Juni Capulong is on a lookout for new faces that will get a rare opportunity to model at the A Tale of Two Seas fashion show at Diplomat Radisson SAS Hotel, Bahrain.Juni is expected to select the 20 male and 20 female models for this event. All the contestants need to have prior modeling experience and must be atleast 16.Minimum required height for men and women is 5ft 8in and 5ft 6in, respectively.This will be a great opportunity as more than 580 people are expected to attend the Two Seas show that will feature around 80 creations.
The Faces of Fashion: Fall 2007
By Victoria Chin and Ana La O'
Derek Lam with model Freja Beha Erichsen wearing the first look in the collection. Photo courtesy of Style.com .
APA takes a closer look at six collections from the top Asian designers at New York and London Fashion Week.
It's Fashion Week again -- or it was a few weeks ago -- and the retail and design sectors were abuzz for the new season. Though we agree that the women's ready-to-wear collections for Fall 2007 were not as exciting and inspiring as we had hoped, there were still a handful from New York and London that caught our eyes. For collections like Vera Wang and 3.1 Phillip Lim, fall marks the arrival of a dark, somber palette and luxurious knits. However, others like Manish Arora defy the norms of cold-weather dress; the collection features a number of sleeveless tops and dresses with candy-colored coats. For the fall, expect to see a continuation of spring's above-the-knee hemlines, belted waists, high necks, metallics (yet again), and lots of black. Below are some of New York and London Fashion Week's most notable collections from designers of Asian descent.
Doo.Ri
NEW YORK: Doo-Ri Chung has experienced enormous success in the past year. Her Spring 2007 collection allowed her to take home the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund Award for young designers and the Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for emerging talent. And aside from a collaboration in the works with jewelry giant Piaget, 2006 also marked Chung's wedding to Jeff Green, for which she designed her own dress.
For Fall 2007, Chung opened with a cropped trench with satin lapels over a knee-length skirt of flowing silk, all in jet black. The dramatic silhouette was complimented by long leather gloves, which were a sultry touch throughout the collection. Later, Chung sent out a number of short jersey cocktail dresses in burgundy and teal, cropped three-quarter-sleeved jackets, and sexy skintight trousers. A fox fur vest and crystal embellishments added an air of glamour to the show. Chung's masterful hand at draping was evident in the high-neck cap-sleeved minidress, which featured handfuls of chiffon cascading from bunched rosettes at the top to create a flouncy bubble hem. Though the Doo.Ri Spring 2007 collection put the line on the map, Fall 2007 reminds us of why Chung deserves to be there. --Victoria J. Chin
Vera Wang
NEW YORK: Proving that stylistic inspiration can come from the unlikeliest of places, Vera Wang channeled the Bolshevik Revolution for her Fall 2007 collection. Pale-faced, full-browed models marched down her runway in black leather knee-high boots, structured skirts, and stiff coats in gray, black, and military khaki. Jackets and tops were then cinched at the waist with black belts or layered with knit sweaters. Of course, the Babushka look would not be complete without the accent headscarf, which Wang presented in heavy knits as well as emerald green and gold satin. While drawing on Russia's wartime drab garb might seem like a design gamble to some, Wang proved that even the utilitarian can be beautiful: amidst the bridal queen's dark fall palette peeped signs of her signature opulent elegance in shiny satins, sequins, brooches, and beaded evening gowns. --Ana La O'
Manish Arora
LONDON: Sometimes the chill of fall calls for a fashion pick-me-up. For Manish Arora, this means color, sparkle, and most importantly, a very vivid imagination. The Indian designer dressed his models in futuristic dresses layered over ultra shiny black tights for Fall 2007. Showing that more is, well, more, many of his dresses boasted glittering sequins, intricate cutouts, and Pucci-meets-intergalactic fantasy-inspired prints. Arora pumped the volume of his avant-garde designs even higher with matching fluorescent orange and platinum blonde blunt cut bob wigs and theatrical makeup. With white face paint, flashes of lime green eye shadow, and intricate drawn-on eye and head patterns, Arora's looks evoked punk rock, 60s mod, and Queen Amidala, all at the same time. In the sea of fall's black and gray, Arora's loud new line emerges as a much needed relief -- or should I say release? -- from the monotony. --Ana La O'
3.1 Phillip Lim
NEW YORK: Phillip Lim's fall collection featured a variety of classic, loosely tailored options for women and men. Lim for the most part stuck to his usual palette of grey, black, beige, and ivory, but this time also sent out a few pieces in bright cerulean and vibrant red. Sportswear for women included layered silk blouses and cashmere sweaters, voluminous silk dresses and skirts over tights, and oversized trousers. Standout pieces include a loose metallic minidress with a collar of black folds and elbow-length sleeves and a white scoopneck tank dress with chiffon delicately draped from the chest to the hip. Lim's options for men consisted of coats, blazers, and sweaters over flat front slacks, and were generally uninspiring. This collection marked Lim's first venture into denim, with a high-waisted denim skirt for women and jeans for men. Overall, the fall 2007 line was not as unified as it has been in the past, but it was nicely summed up by the final piece -- a strapless ivory silk dress with top folds held in by a black sash at the waist, worn by none other than Du Juan. --Victoria J. Chin
Derek Lam
NEW YORK: Derek Lam built his reputation on his ability for reinterpreting classic American sportswear. He makes this clear once again in his fall collection, delivering straightforward, tailored pieces with sophisticated and unique details. The first look was a white double-breasted wool coat with exaggerated lapels over tight leather and suede pants. Present throughout most of the collection were high belted waists, skinny pants, a-line skirts, and plaids in black, white, grey, and navy. What may have thrown some people off were oddly-placed zippers going down the front of some of the skirts and dresses. But what the collection lacked in daywear it more than compensated with its options for evening. The light brown chiffon minidress with asymmetrical shoulders was nothing short of angelic. The navy floor-length gown with a deep shawl neck and hood blew away the audience, which included Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour, stylist extraordinaire Rachel Zoe, and makeup maven turned socialite Olivia Chantecaille. --Victoria J. Chin
Eley Kishimoto
LONDON: Fashion and textile duo Wakako Kishimoto and Mark Eley first caught the fancy of the fashion world by creating striking patterns for heavyweights like Marc Jacobs and Alexander McQueen. But this spring, the pair impressed audiences with their own funky, but understated, Eley Kishimoto fall line. On the Eley Kishimoto runway, simple dresses (in sleeveless, quarter-length and puff sleeve styles) and kimono sleeve jackets were brightened with floral and geometric patterns in bold red, gold, and navy blue. Showing an eye for playful contrasts, Eley Kishimoto often layered sold satin coats over printed pieces. Even more bravely, the pair layered large red and gold floral print coats over neutral colored plaid skirts, successfully mixing prints without overwhelming the viewer. While Eley Kishimoto's fall line offered standout graphics, it also had its share of flowing, draped pieces in solid yellow, navy, and white. After all, Eley Kishimoto is about balance this fall season. --Ana La O'
Derek Lam with model Freja Beha Erichsen wearing the first look in the collection. Photo courtesy of Style.com .
APA takes a closer look at six collections from the top Asian designers at New York and London Fashion Week.
It's Fashion Week again -- or it was a few weeks ago -- and the retail and design sectors were abuzz for the new season. Though we agree that the women's ready-to-wear collections for Fall 2007 were not as exciting and inspiring as we had hoped, there were still a handful from New York and London that caught our eyes. For collections like Vera Wang and 3.1 Phillip Lim, fall marks the arrival of a dark, somber palette and luxurious knits. However, others like Manish Arora defy the norms of cold-weather dress; the collection features a number of sleeveless tops and dresses with candy-colored coats. For the fall, expect to see a continuation of spring's above-the-knee hemlines, belted waists, high necks, metallics (yet again), and lots of black. Below are some of New York and London Fashion Week's most notable collections from designers of Asian descent.
Doo.Ri
NEW YORK: Doo-Ri Chung has experienced enormous success in the past year. Her Spring 2007 collection allowed her to take home the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund Award for young designers and the Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for emerging talent. And aside from a collaboration in the works with jewelry giant Piaget, 2006 also marked Chung's wedding to Jeff Green, for which she designed her own dress.
For Fall 2007, Chung opened with a cropped trench with satin lapels over a knee-length skirt of flowing silk, all in jet black. The dramatic silhouette was complimented by long leather gloves, which were a sultry touch throughout the collection. Later, Chung sent out a number of short jersey cocktail dresses in burgundy and teal, cropped three-quarter-sleeved jackets, and sexy skintight trousers. A fox fur vest and crystal embellishments added an air of glamour to the show. Chung's masterful hand at draping was evident in the high-neck cap-sleeved minidress, which featured handfuls of chiffon cascading from bunched rosettes at the top to create a flouncy bubble hem. Though the Doo.Ri Spring 2007 collection put the line on the map, Fall 2007 reminds us of why Chung deserves to be there. --Victoria J. Chin
Vera Wang
NEW YORK: Proving that stylistic inspiration can come from the unlikeliest of places, Vera Wang channeled the Bolshevik Revolution for her Fall 2007 collection. Pale-faced, full-browed models marched down her runway in black leather knee-high boots, structured skirts, and stiff coats in gray, black, and military khaki. Jackets and tops were then cinched at the waist with black belts or layered with knit sweaters. Of course, the Babushka look would not be complete without the accent headscarf, which Wang presented in heavy knits as well as emerald green and gold satin. While drawing on Russia's wartime drab garb might seem like a design gamble to some, Wang proved that even the utilitarian can be beautiful: amidst the bridal queen's dark fall palette peeped signs of her signature opulent elegance in shiny satins, sequins, brooches, and beaded evening gowns. --Ana La O'
Manish Arora
LONDON: Sometimes the chill of fall calls for a fashion pick-me-up. For Manish Arora, this means color, sparkle, and most importantly, a very vivid imagination. The Indian designer dressed his models in futuristic dresses layered over ultra shiny black tights for Fall 2007. Showing that more is, well, more, many of his dresses boasted glittering sequins, intricate cutouts, and Pucci-meets-intergalactic fantasy-inspired prints. Arora pumped the volume of his avant-garde designs even higher with matching fluorescent orange and platinum blonde blunt cut bob wigs and theatrical makeup. With white face paint, flashes of lime green eye shadow, and intricate drawn-on eye and head patterns, Arora's looks evoked punk rock, 60s mod, and Queen Amidala, all at the same time. In the sea of fall's black and gray, Arora's loud new line emerges as a much needed relief -- or should I say release? -- from the monotony. --Ana La O'
3.1 Phillip Lim
NEW YORK: Phillip Lim's fall collection featured a variety of classic, loosely tailored options for women and men. Lim for the most part stuck to his usual palette of grey, black, beige, and ivory, but this time also sent out a few pieces in bright cerulean and vibrant red. Sportswear for women included layered silk blouses and cashmere sweaters, voluminous silk dresses and skirts over tights, and oversized trousers. Standout pieces include a loose metallic minidress with a collar of black folds and elbow-length sleeves and a white scoopneck tank dress with chiffon delicately draped from the chest to the hip. Lim's options for men consisted of coats, blazers, and sweaters over flat front slacks, and were generally uninspiring. This collection marked Lim's first venture into denim, with a high-waisted denim skirt for women and jeans for men. Overall, the fall 2007 line was not as unified as it has been in the past, but it was nicely summed up by the final piece -- a strapless ivory silk dress with top folds held in by a black sash at the waist, worn by none other than Du Juan. --Victoria J. Chin
Derek Lam
NEW YORK: Derek Lam built his reputation on his ability for reinterpreting classic American sportswear. He makes this clear once again in his fall collection, delivering straightforward, tailored pieces with sophisticated and unique details. The first look was a white double-breasted wool coat with exaggerated lapels over tight leather and suede pants. Present throughout most of the collection were high belted waists, skinny pants, a-line skirts, and plaids in black, white, grey, and navy. What may have thrown some people off were oddly-placed zippers going down the front of some of the skirts and dresses. But what the collection lacked in daywear it more than compensated with its options for evening. The light brown chiffon minidress with asymmetrical shoulders was nothing short of angelic. The navy floor-length gown with a deep shawl neck and hood blew away the audience, which included Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour, stylist extraordinaire Rachel Zoe, and makeup maven turned socialite Olivia Chantecaille. --Victoria J. Chin
Eley Kishimoto
LONDON: Fashion and textile duo Wakako Kishimoto and Mark Eley first caught the fancy of the fashion world by creating striking patterns for heavyweights like Marc Jacobs and Alexander McQueen. But this spring, the pair impressed audiences with their own funky, but understated, Eley Kishimoto fall line. On the Eley Kishimoto runway, simple dresses (in sleeveless, quarter-length and puff sleeve styles) and kimono sleeve jackets were brightened with floral and geometric patterns in bold red, gold, and navy blue. Showing an eye for playful contrasts, Eley Kishimoto often layered sold satin coats over printed pieces. Even more bravely, the pair layered large red and gold floral print coats over neutral colored plaid skirts, successfully mixing prints without overwhelming the viewer. While Eley Kishimoto's fall line offered standout graphics, it also had its share of flowing, draped pieces in solid yellow, navy, and white. After all, Eley Kishimoto is about balance this fall season. --Ana La O'
Global : Fashion shows, a preview of season trends
Paris ready-to-wear fashion week is currently on and many major designers have presented their ideas regarding the trends for the Autumn/Winter 2007-8 season.
The designs that are displayed on the runways, however, never make it to the stores.
These creations are offered by certain websites, and fashion experts believe that this fact generates immense confusion.
The fashion shows are a preview of the trend for the particular season.
These clothes are not meant for sale and hence do not enter the market.
The major designers present their styles, that eventually the trend for the season is decided.
The designs that are displayed on the runways, however, never make it to the stores.
These creations are offered by certain websites, and fashion experts believe that this fact generates immense confusion.
The fashion shows are a preview of the trend for the particular season.
These clothes are not meant for sale and hence do not enter the market.
The major designers present their styles, that eventually the trend for the season is decided.
Winter trends are in the bag
By Joelle Diderich
PARIS— At the Chanel ready-to-wear show yesterday, you couldn’t toss a snowball without hitting one of the oversized patent leather handbags made popular by Kate Moss. In a blatant manifestation of the handbag-mania that has gripped the fashion industry, editors normally averse to sharing the same shade of lipstick stood in clusters around a blinding white fake snow set, clutching identical Chanel totes. Ask any fashion follower which handbag she covets, and she will reel off names like Lariat, Paddington, Birkin, Spy and Stam. To the uninitiated, these are the star products from Balenciaga, Chloe, Hermes, Fendi and Marc Jacobs, respectively.
“A woman doesn’t have just one handbag anymore, she has a wardrobe of handbags according to her various needs,” said Ken Downing, senior vice president and fashion director at Neiman Marcus. German designer Karl Lagerfeld offered plenty of new options with his autumn-winter collection of windowpane check tweeds in bright Lego-like shades. Standouts included a tiny silver coin purse dripping with chains, a cream crocodile clutch that opened like a book and a navy fabric tote dotted with enamel pins. Unlike expensive designer outfits, handbags are a quick and relatively affordable way for women to update their ward-robes each season. The fact that one size fits all doesn’t hurt, either. Those from Chanel are among the most coveted, from the classic quilted purse with gold chain straps to the sporty Ligne Cambon. “Chanel continues just to be a very sought-after handbag for women of all ages and of all styles. The Chanel handbag is the perfect accessory with everything,” Downing said. And where the ultimate accessory is concerned, price is no object. A Chanel handbag in exotic crocodile or lizard skin will set you back up to $26,000, but that pales in comparison with the diamond-encrusted Birkin at Hermes, which goes for $105,000 to $211,000 depending on the client’s specifications. Though that top tier is reserved for Hollywood stars like Helen Mirren, who carried a $250,000 diamond-bedecked Lana Marks clutch to collect her best actress Oscar on Sunday, the average price of a designer bag has also jumped in the last three years to reflect booming demand. “We are probably at the origin of this rise,” Chanel’s president of fashion, Bruno Pavlovsky said. The company is ramping up the luxury level partly as a bid to foil the counterfeiters who produce millions of second-rate copies of its goods. It churns out six collections per year, making sure new products hit stores every two months.
PARIS— At the Chanel ready-to-wear show yesterday, you couldn’t toss a snowball without hitting one of the oversized patent leather handbags made popular by Kate Moss. In a blatant manifestation of the handbag-mania that has gripped the fashion industry, editors normally averse to sharing the same shade of lipstick stood in clusters around a blinding white fake snow set, clutching identical Chanel totes. Ask any fashion follower which handbag she covets, and she will reel off names like Lariat, Paddington, Birkin, Spy and Stam. To the uninitiated, these are the star products from Balenciaga, Chloe, Hermes, Fendi and Marc Jacobs, respectively.“A woman doesn’t have just one handbag anymore, she has a wardrobe of handbags according to her various needs,” said Ken Downing, senior vice president and fashion director at Neiman Marcus. German designer Karl Lagerfeld offered plenty of new options with his autumn-winter collection of windowpane check tweeds in bright Lego-like shades. Standouts included a tiny silver coin purse dripping with chains, a cream crocodile clutch that opened like a book and a navy fabric tote dotted with enamel pins. Unlike expensive designer outfits, handbags are a quick and relatively affordable way for women to update their ward-robes each season. The fact that one size fits all doesn’t hurt, either. Those from Chanel are among the most coveted, from the classic quilted purse with gold chain straps to the sporty Ligne Cambon. “Chanel continues just to be a very sought-after handbag for women of all ages and of all styles. The Chanel handbag is the perfect accessory with everything,” Downing said. And where the ultimate accessory is concerned, price is no object. A Chanel handbag in exotic crocodile or lizard skin will set you back up to $26,000, but that pales in comparison with the diamond-encrusted Birkin at Hermes, which goes for $105,000 to $211,000 depending on the client’s specifications. Though that top tier is reserved for Hollywood stars like Helen Mirren, who carried a $250,000 diamond-bedecked Lana Marks clutch to collect her best actress Oscar on Sunday, the average price of a designer bag has also jumped in the last three years to reflect booming demand. “We are probably at the origin of this rise,” Chanel’s president of fashion, Bruno Pavlovsky said. The company is ramping up the luxury level partly as a bid to foil the counterfeiters who produce millions of second-rate copies of its goods. It churns out six collections per year, making sure new products hit stores every two months.
France : Lagerfeld splashes bright colors on Paris fashion
Karl Lagerfeld showcased his autumn/winter 2007/2008 collection at the Grand Palais, Paris, on Friday.The range offered all-in-one ski-suits, paired with gold leather skating boots. Skating skirts were matched with leggings and sweaters.Accessories like striped pom-pom hats, scarves and hippie bags went with almost every outfit.Rainbow-patterned coats, tweeds and wool checks were some of the consistent themes.Eye-catching ornament, however, was the pearl head-dresses that were adorned the long wavy hair-styles.Color palette included shades of vibrant purples, oranges and turquoise.
High fashion mixes with high stakes as glamour takes over the racetrack
By Martha McKenzie-Minifie
Fashion is getting a bigger run at Auckland Cup Week, as organisers position the gala as the nation's "glamour" sporting event.
Auckland Racing Club chief executive Chris Weaver said racing's reputation here as "traditionally a bit more of an old man's sport" was being reinvigorated.
Mr Weaver, who had two new suits made for the week, said attracting well-dressed young people was part of the image overhaul.
He said the carnival was now giving international glamour events a run for their money with the $100,000 worth of prizes up for grabs for those who tread the catwalk in today's Mercedes Prix de Fashion being the biggest haul in Australasia.
Ten finalists selected at fashion events around the country, including in Matamata, Christchurch and Hawkes Bay, would be joined by five chosen after registering on theday.
Mr Weaver said the races were one of the few places where people dressed in finery.
"It's getting to the stage where ladies aren't wearing hats to weddings any more...We can say, 'Look, this is the excuse you've got when you want to come along to Ellerslie, this is your chance to get really dressed up."
Fashion designer Yvonne Bennetti, TV3's Carol Hirschfeld, socialite Gilda Kirkpatrick and stylist Robert Niwa will be the judges.
Fashion is getting a bigger run at Auckland Cup Week, as organisers position the gala as the nation's "glamour" sporting event.
Auckland Racing Club chief executive Chris Weaver said racing's reputation here as "traditionally a bit more of an old man's sport" was being reinvigorated.
Mr Weaver, who had two new suits made for the week, said attracting well-dressed young people was part of the image overhaul.
He said the carnival was now giving international glamour events a run for their money with the $100,000 worth of prizes up for grabs for those who tread the catwalk in today's Mercedes Prix de Fashion being the biggest haul in Australasia.
Ten finalists selected at fashion events around the country, including in Matamata, Christchurch and Hawkes Bay, would be joined by five chosen after registering on theday.
Mr Weaver said the races were one of the few places where people dressed in finery.
"It's getting to the stage where ladies aren't wearing hats to weddings any more...We can say, 'Look, this is the excuse you've got when you want to come along to Ellerslie, this is your chance to get really dressed up."
Fashion designer Yvonne Bennetti, TV3's Carol Hirschfeld, socialite Gilda Kirkpatrick and stylist Robert Niwa will be the judges.
Fashion Wars: Hostilities break out between America's top fashion designers
ZOOZOOM, The Original Online Glossy, launches a new season of Fashion Wars, an interactive addition to their award-winning online fashion magazine, where designers go head-to-head with viewers voting for their favorite outfits.
Last season Michael Kors was victorious but there were plenty of surprises. As The New York Times noted, Patrik Rzepski, a relative newcomer to the New York fashion scene, came in third overall. ZOOZOOM Publisher David McIntyre declared that Fashion Wars is bringing a new democracy to fashion, joking that it's the American dream all dressed up, where any designer, young or old, established or freshman, can be crowned Queen for a season.
Sadly not everyone wants to play.
There are a number of designers Fashion Wars would like to feature but who don't want to play. Designers have nothing to fear: Last season Michael Kors proved that the big brands have more than just name-recognition. He stood strong and won with good design in a fair fight. Today's consumers want to interact with their brands and Fashion Wars provides a protected environment for this to take place. Guy Trebay of The New York Times asked recently, "Whatever Happened To Now?" It's here; it's called interaction between brand and consumer.
Fashion Wars is fun and educational, innovative and disruptive, with enormous potential to affect the world of fashion. It's what the editors and buyers see each season but this time YOU choose. For instance, store buyers looking to see what outfits are getting traction may make more considered purchases; designers checking out the hits and misses from their collection can make changes. It's democracy in accordance with ZOOZOOM's philosophy of "tools not rules." Of course for us as a fashion magazine it helps us plan our editorial features for fall.
Highly addictive, the more you play the more you learn.
How it works:
A battle is two images that are presented side by side. The images presented are either from the same designer's collection or represent a given look or trend across designers, such as "grey" "shift dresses" or "sleeve details." The images are picked at random and the winners and losers from each battle are recorded with the rolling statistics showing what's "in" and what's "out."
Last season Michael Kors was victorious but there were plenty of surprises. As The New York Times noted, Patrik Rzepski, a relative newcomer to the New York fashion scene, came in third overall. ZOOZOOM Publisher David McIntyre declared that Fashion Wars is bringing a new democracy to fashion, joking that it's the American dream all dressed up, where any designer, young or old, established or freshman, can be crowned Queen for a season.
Sadly not everyone wants to play.
There are a number of designers Fashion Wars would like to feature but who don't want to play. Designers have nothing to fear: Last season Michael Kors proved that the big brands have more than just name-recognition. He stood strong and won with good design in a fair fight. Today's consumers want to interact with their brands and Fashion Wars provides a protected environment for this to take place. Guy Trebay of The New York Times asked recently, "Whatever Happened To Now?" It's here; it's called interaction between brand and consumer.
Fashion Wars is fun and educational, innovative and disruptive, with enormous potential to affect the world of fashion. It's what the editors and buyers see each season but this time YOU choose. For instance, store buyers looking to see what outfits are getting traction may make more considered purchases; designers checking out the hits and misses from their collection can make changes. It's democracy in accordance with ZOOZOOM's philosophy of "tools not rules." Of course for us as a fashion magazine it helps us plan our editorial features for fall.
Highly addictive, the more you play the more you learn.
How it works:
A battle is two images that are presented side by side. The images presented are either from the same designer's collection or represent a given look or trend across designers, such as "grey" "shift dresses" or "sleeve details." The images are picked at random and the winners and losers from each battle are recorded with the rolling statistics showing what's "in" and what's "out."
Why Green Glamour Matters
2006 was a hot year for the environment. And when I say hot, I mean hot like “Nicole Ritchie Poses on ‘Green Carpet’ With Prius,” not hot like “Warmest Year in Recorded
History” (although, with ’06 average temperatures 2.2 degrees above the 20th century mean, that’s also technically true). Ever since Al Gore first inconvenienced a roomful of slide-show-goers, the masses have been red hot and bothered for all things green. And nowhere is environmentalism’s newfound cachet more evident than in the meteoric rise of eco fashion. “People are more conscious today of what they’re wearing, why they’re wearing it and how it affects the environment,” trumpeted The New York Times. “To ignore such issues is just not sexy today.”Hear that, climate change nay-sayers (and other nefarious conventional-synthetics-wearing-folk)? Just in case sparing innocent farmers and little birdies from pesticide exposure wasn’t enough to convince you, The New York Times says you are not sexy! Now let that heady combination of guilt and fear of ridicule settle in for a moment… Okay, excellent! Ready to do some worldchanging? Even if you think fashion is capitalism at its most superficial, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate its eco-incarnate. The outcome of the environmental movement might not rest on what brand of denim you’re wearing — but that doesn’t mean it can’t help. Like Mark Twain said, “clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.” Or consider the words of WLT writer Lou Bendrick, who delivered a Carson Kressley-style bitch slap to fashion-averse greenies in her piece “Queer Eye For the Green Guy,” all the way back in April of ’05. “I know it’s repugnant to suggest that we focus on sartorial matters while trying to save our steamy, doomed planet, but the other team is running up the score. Image consultants are working around the clock to ensure that next-generation oil barons keep their pudgy bottoms in the seat of power. These consultants know that even the simplest tactics can produce enormous results. If you don’t believe me, slap a cowboy hat on your head and pepper your speech with folksy malapropisms, and see if you can sell a war.”Simran Sethi — the face of Treehugger TV, Oprah and Martha’s chosen green guru, and the host of The Green, a new eco lifestyle show debuting next month on the Sundance Channel — ranks eco fashion at the top of her list of the most exciting green ideas out there. As she tells us in this issue, it’s a key point of entry to bring newbies into the fold. “Eco fashion is a strong indication of the way environmentalism is changing and evolving,” says Simran. “Before, people felt like they had to make a compromise; if you want to be green, you’re going to have to suffer. Eco fashion and architecture are helping people understand: things can still be stylish and have a modern aesthetic — and be sustainable.”If you’re wondering where to find the most cutting edge green design in LA, check out our shopping guide on page 62, or join us on the eve of Saturday, March 3rd, at the WLT -sponsored launch of a new eco lifestyle store in Venice. Owner Deborah Guyer Greene aims to turn the corner of Abbot Kinney and Venice Blvd. into a green lifestyle hub — first with her enviro-inspired epOxybOx art gallery, and now with the new epOxyGreen, featuring the latest in organic décor and apparel, alt-powered transport, and people and planet-friendly furniture and building materials. If you miss the party, head down to the epOxy campus on Sunday, March 4th for the Sustainable Marketplace, a showcase of local green vendors and community sustainability workshops every first and third Sunday of the month. (For more info, visit epoxybox.com or call 310.862.4242).And if you go, be sure to stop by the WLT booth and say hi. I’ll be the one in the ten-gallon hat, spouting folksy malapropisms, trying to sell a new way of living. —Eliza Thomas, Editor in Chief
History” (although, with ’06 average temperatures 2.2 degrees above the 20th century mean, that’s also technically true). Ever since Al Gore first inconvenienced a roomful of slide-show-goers, the masses have been red hot and bothered for all things green. And nowhere is environmentalism’s newfound cachet more evident than in the meteoric rise of eco fashion. “People are more conscious today of what they’re wearing, why they’re wearing it and how it affects the environment,” trumpeted The New York Times. “To ignore such issues is just not sexy today.”Hear that, climate change nay-sayers (and other nefarious conventional-synthetics-wearing-folk)? Just in case sparing innocent farmers and little birdies from pesticide exposure wasn’t enough to convince you, The New York Times says you are not sexy! Now let that heady combination of guilt and fear of ridicule settle in for a moment… Okay, excellent! Ready to do some worldchanging? Even if you think fashion is capitalism at its most superficial, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate its eco-incarnate. The outcome of the environmental movement might not rest on what brand of denim you’re wearing — but that doesn’t mean it can’t help. Like Mark Twain said, “clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.” Or consider the words of WLT writer Lou Bendrick, who delivered a Carson Kressley-style bitch slap to fashion-averse greenies in her piece “Queer Eye For the Green Guy,” all the way back in April of ’05. “I know it’s repugnant to suggest that we focus on sartorial matters while trying to save our steamy, doomed planet, but the other team is running up the score. Image consultants are working around the clock to ensure that next-generation oil barons keep their pudgy bottoms in the seat of power. These consultants know that even the simplest tactics can produce enormous results. If you don’t believe me, slap a cowboy hat on your head and pepper your speech with folksy malapropisms, and see if you can sell a war.”Simran Sethi — the face of Treehugger TV, Oprah and Martha’s chosen green guru, and the host of The Green, a new eco lifestyle show debuting next month on the Sundance Channel — ranks eco fashion at the top of her list of the most exciting green ideas out there. As she tells us in this issue, it’s a key point of entry to bring newbies into the fold. “Eco fashion is a strong indication of the way environmentalism is changing and evolving,” says Simran. “Before, people felt like they had to make a compromise; if you want to be green, you’re going to have to suffer. Eco fashion and architecture are helping people understand: things can still be stylish and have a modern aesthetic — and be sustainable.”If you’re wondering where to find the most cutting edge green design in LA, check out our shopping guide on page 62, or join us on the eve of Saturday, March 3rd, at the WLT -sponsored launch of a new eco lifestyle store in Venice. Owner Deborah Guyer Greene aims to turn the corner of Abbot Kinney and Venice Blvd. into a green lifestyle hub — first with her enviro-inspired epOxybOx art gallery, and now with the new epOxyGreen, featuring the latest in organic décor and apparel, alt-powered transport, and people and planet-friendly furniture and building materials. If you miss the party, head down to the epOxy campus on Sunday, March 4th for the Sustainable Marketplace, a showcase of local green vendors and community sustainability workshops every first and third Sunday of the month. (For more info, visit epoxybox.com or call 310.862.4242).And if you go, be sure to stop by the WLT booth and say hi. I’ll be the one in the ten-gallon hat, spouting folksy malapropisms, trying to sell a new way of living. —Eliza Thomas, Editor in Chief
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