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Friday, August 30, 2013

Christian Louboutin - 20 Years of Design, Artistry and Magic

louboutin design
louboutin fur boot
louboutin snakeskin
Do you ever dream of being in a gorgeous art deco building surrounded by Christian Louboutin shoes?  The Design Exchange in Toronto has an epic exhibit celebrating 20 Years of Design, Artistry and Magic from legendary shoe designer Christian Louboutin.

The show is divided into sections highlighting his atelier and design studio, travel, shoe construction, boots, fetish and the central showpiece, a stage featuring his most flamboyant designs, hologram of Dita Von Teese performing striptease in honor of his shoes and velvet lounge all in the shape of his signature red sole.
louboutin exhibit
This was one of the sexiest exhibits I have ever seen.  The lighting was low with a red glow.  The plush couch in front of the stage had an intimate illicit vibe.  The shoe silhouettes themselves were provocative.  The fetish themed room was encased in black velvet curtains with large, black and white erotica images to accompany the not-for-every day wear themed shoes.

Besides the spectacle, I was thrilled to learn more about the man and his inspiration.  The first spark of his shoe obsession came when he viewed a warning sign in front of the Museum of Oceanic and African Art that was of a stiletto heel with a bright red mark crossing it out.  It was to caution against high heels leaving scuff marks on a parquet floor, but it was the first hint of the forbidden nature of a sexy shoe.

The designer grew up watching classic Hollywood icons like Marlene Dietrich and Marilyn Monroe.  His love of theatricality really blossomed after watching showgirls perform in towering heels from the wings of the Folies Bergere.  

Louboutin's sense of humor definitely shows through in many of his designs, like an animal paw styled shoe or whimsical materials and motifs.  There was a wall of amazing one-of-a-kind shoes from materials like fish skin or beer cans.  Architecture played a great deal in inspiring the construction of other shoes.

Key moments were noted like his collaboration with Yves Saint-Laurent, which was the first time the couturier offered a collection that named a co-designer.  His most popular shoe, the Pigalle is already an icon and Louboutin offers thoughts on why he thinks it succeeded.  He realizes that it's simplicity makes it possible for any woman to adopt the style into her own to elevate whatever outfit she is wearing.  In another part of the exhibit, he had notes on what he learned from women about the low shape of the throat of his shoes.  Women had complained it exposed too much of the foot, which he didn't understand, as women wore sandals and thongs.  He came to realize that the shape made wearers feel like they were exposing cleavage in the same vein as their behind or decollete in a psychological sense.

You could examine his creative process in seeing his swatch books, catalogs, sketches and a room dedicated to the different stages of how a shoe is put together.  The design included the initial sketch, patterns, shoe last and stitching.

Which Louboutin design is your favorite? What does your fantasy shoe style look like?

The exhibit runs until September 15, 2013.  If you can't make the show, check out more images here.
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Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Nanette Lepore Resort and Swim 2014

We're hitting the last of summer! Locavore designer Nanette Lepore put on two great presentations in the past few months. First, she presented her resort collection of bodies that paired a traditional porcelain print and a contemporary, digitally printed floral into chic rash guard tops and bottoms.

Nanette Lepore's Miami Fashion Week swim show brought us more great prints.  The suits were great, but the long, flowing dress cover-ups and tunics were perfect for beach to soiree dressing.  Unusual color combinations like the apricot tunic and ice blue embroidery was a great way to update basic silhouettes.

When asked if the beach was now the new runway, Nanette replied"Absolutely! Everyone wants to be able to express themselves and look fabulous no matter what they're doing."

Back in the NYC showroom, I enjoyed browsing through all of the coordinating accessories.  Nanette carries through her patterns and colors into fun, wearable shoes.  The handbags are built with a tech-savvy customer in mind.  The brightest colors of her palette are well represented.

Much of Nanette Lepore's collection is made in New York.  She was one of the most visible advocates for Save the Garment Center in NYC.  Her advice to new designers on deciding to produce locally: "Do it! The costs are about the same and you'll be able to have more control over everything. It's so worth it!"

What do you think of designers who produce locally?  Would that be more appealing to you as a shopper?

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Monday, August 26, 2013

Judith Leiber - Artisan to Fashion Icon

judith leiber handbags
judith leiber museum
The patron saint of luxury handbags, the Judith Leiber Museum in East Hampton celebrates her designs in an exhibit that spans the 1960's to 2004.  She was a Holocaust survivor who learned her artisan handbag making skills in Hungary.

With a very supportive husband, Judith Leiber brought her passion and skills to America, also with a goal of employing women in the trade.  Many of her iconic bags were made in New York.  The classic minaudieres, clutches and accessories have been seen on almost every First Lady in the past few decades as well as countless celebrities.

The museum of a real gem in the woods in East Hampton, Long Island.  The location is part of their residence and also houses husband Gerson's artwork.  There is a modest case on the first floor that houses some of her many fashion awards.  The second floor contains a petite silver and crystal encrusted handbag that I was told was her absolute favorite among the many thousands of her career.  It was the first bag she ever made in metal and crystals.

Back when I was designing for an embroidery house full-time, the Judith Leiber studio used several of my
designs in the collection, but this was already after the company had already been sold.

In addition to the handbags and artwork on display, there is a huge collection of Chinese artwork that the Leibers are fond of collecting.  You can see this influence clearly in the shapes and motifs that were in Ms. Leiber's work from the 1980's onward.

If you catch a last weekend out in the Hamptons, definitely check this fashion exhibit out!  For more information, take a look at their website here.
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Saturday, August 24, 2013

Project Runway Casting Season 13

Are you in or are you out? If you are a fashion design talent with a flair for on-air drama, it's time to get your scissors out.  The producers of Project Runway are now casting for season 13 of the hit fashion design competition.

Get your couture look cobbled together from spare parts of some wreckage to be judged by the likes of Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Zac Posen after it was deciphered by mentor Tim Gunn.  You already know the rewards... $100K for your collection, pimped out design studio, fame, etc.  Even if you don't win, you get free room and board in a posh apartment in Midtown Manhattan and lots of exposure for your work.

To start, get your application in before September 9, 2013.  More information and forms can be found here.
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Friday, August 23, 2013

Noon By Noor Fall 2013

I love all sorts of designer families.  Noon by Noor designers Sheikha Noor Al Khalifa and Sheikha Haya Al Khalifa are cousins.  Their second outing at NY Fashion week was inspired by the transient culture of their home country of Bahrain.

The knitted wool caps, long caps and scholastic looks reminiscent of the British boarding school days of my father's time.  He, like many foreign students had parents who wanted their child to receive an International education and exposed themselves to culture.  Winter weather was a new thing, etiquette, language...  The cool color palette of the sportswear was grey, oxblood, blue, black with hints of gold.   The evening wear warmed up with rich red in silk.  

I"m not sure how many stores actually carry this line yet, but you can buy it on their own website. It is a good looking collection for only a second season, though I don't see a consistent aesthetic yet.  I'm looking forward to some great things from these designing cousins.

Who are your favorite designing families?

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Thursday, August 22, 2013

NYC's Bright Side of Summer


We are in the last stretch of summer.  Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of outdoor activities in New York City.  I was able to indulge in that warm weather treat of a cruise down the East River and a thorough sampling of Malibu Island Spiced cocktails with my fellow bloggers.

An August afternoon with Glam bloggers always warrants a cute outfit.  My fellow fashionistas were rocking gorgeous print dresses and brightly colored necklaces.  I had on a silk abstract print All Saints dress with a Weng Meng fascinator and Sigerson Morrison sandals.  I must admit, after a few delicious Malibu Ginger drinks, the wooden heels felt rather silly on a swaying boat.  I was also reminded that every once in awhile, you need to be a tourist in your own city and admire the grandeur that is the Statue of Liberty. 

Cranberry and Malibu Island Spiced was the favorite among the ladies.  The very few men on the boat were partial to the Malibu Island Spiced Rum and Coke.  There was a healthier coconut water beverage which complemented the coconut flavors and spices that Malibu Island Spiced already had, but let’s face it, we were there to indulge.

The Glam Bloggers and I got off the boat to dig our designer heeled toes in the sand further downtown at the Beekman Beer Garden and Beach Club.  There’s always a temptation in a beach environment to gorge yourself on sugary festival cocktails.  What I liked about Malibu Island Spiced is that it uses a more natural Truvia as sweetener to lessen the guilt.   

How are you enjoying the last few weeks of the season? Do you have a favorite summer drink recipe?

Spiced Rum’s Finally Seen the Light. Malibu Island Spiced combines Malibu’s signature blend of Caribbean rum and coconut liqueur with light spices, smoked vanilla, cinnamon and a touch of sweetness with Truvia®, zero-calorie sweetener. The result is a lo-cal, big-flavored spiced rum alternative. Find out more at https://www.facebook.com/Maliburum/app_501945323176523

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Pernod Ricard via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Pernod Ricard
.


SIP EASY. ENJOY MALIBU RESPONSIBLY.
MALIBU ® Caribbean Rum with Coconut Liqueur & Natural Spices, with Truvia® Sweetener. 30% Alc./Vol. (60 Proof) ©2013 Imported by Pernod Ricard USA, Truvia® and the Truvia®  logo are registered trademarks of the Truvia Company PER 1.5 FL. OZ. SERVING. AVERAGE ANALYSIS: CALORIES 70; CARBOHYDRATES less than 1 gram; PROTEIN 0 grams; FAT 0 grams.
*when mixed with your favorite zero calorie mixer. Limes and other garnishes may add calories
Purchase, NY LLC.
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Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Richard Chai Fall 2013

Parsons alumni shout-out! Fellow classmate Richard Chai's Fall 2013 collection from NY Fashion week looked like a chic utilitarian uniform for the future utopia.  Too wordy?  The runway reminded me of the zen wardrobe of the 1997 movie Gattaca .  The color palette was full of greys, black and an accent of violet.  The silhouettes were tailored but not severely tailored.  

The guy we nicknamed "Richie Rich" in class always manages to nail that pretty/preppy, understated privileged look dead-on.  I'm not saying that was his own lifestyle, but he knows how to project our fantasy version of that look very well.   Maybe the bored look of the models helps.  

Does anyone else remember the movie Gattaca? Or was I the only one who watched it?

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Tuesday, August 20, 2013

DIY: Crystallized French Riviera Floral

mariana leung embroidery
Welcome to the first project in my runway DIY series. This crystallized French Riviera floral brooch/clip was inspired by Zang Toi's Spring Summer 2013 runway collection. You can read our exclusive interview with the designer about his creative process in designing his sparkling embroideries right here.

For this project you will need:
-3 or 4 Swarovski 4739 200x160 MM crystals
-About 50 Swarovski Crystallized Sew-on crystal 4mm 3128 stones
-1 yard of silk organza in the color of your choice.
-Beading needle and matching thread
-Dual brooch clip (I order mine from Trimweaver)
-Flower template (Download the one I created here).  
swarovski design
Fold the organza as many times as you can and pin the flower template to the top. You can print the flower template in different sizes if you like.

Cut around the flower template for lots of layers of flowers.You don't have to spend too much time getting the ridges exactly right.  It looks more natural to have some irregularity.

flower cutout

This is totally optional, but you can shape your cut organza flower petals for more depth.  I have antique French flower irons, but you can also just shape them with a ball iron (available at craft stores) or the tip of your regular iron. If you do you a regular iron, you can try pressing the petals down the middle, or stretching and pressing around the top edges for shape and dimension.

antique fabric flower

Layer all of your flower petals on top of each other, but rotate them slightly with each layer for more depth and coverage. Use a few tacking stitches (cut and stitch to a circle in stiff fabric if your organza is too flimsy). 

Embroider 3 or 4 of the Swarovski 200x160 stones in the center. Then embroider the small 4mm sew-on stones in an irregular manner in between and around the larger stones. Over lap and sew some stones on top of the first layer of 4mm stones for a clustered, rich look.

After all of the Swarovski crystals are embroidered, stitch the flower to the brooch clip through the center.

You're done!
Product was provided by Swarovski Elements for use of this project.
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How Zang Toi Creates Embellished Luxury

Fashion Designer Zang Toi always has one of the most stunning runway collections at NY Fashion Week.  For his spring 2013 collection, I was dazzled by the sparkling embellishments on the pastel gowns.  As an embroidery designer, I wanted to get to know his creative process.  He was generous enough to let us into his journey:

Ms. Fabulous: What is your creative process when developing embroideries for your collection?

Zang Toi: I get my inspiration from almost everything; it can be from a molding, or lace, or drawings or simply a unique pattern.

Ms. F: What materials did you choose in spring 2013 and why?

Z.T.: I used a lot of sequins and beads, as well as Swarovski crystals. It is a Spring collection; I wanted it to be light and airy, yet elegant and beautiful at the same time. The Swarovski crystals for the evening, in order to capture the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera.

Ms. F:  Do you have favorite materials you like to use again and again in your embellishments?

Z.T.: Over the years, I have used a lot of beads, sequins, and crystals.

Ms. F: How did the color palette for spring 2013 collection reflect the inspiration of your French Riviera trip?

Z.T.: French Riviera is so romantic and breathtaking. I used Ice Lilac, Ice Yellow & Ice Pink to express the beauty of Cote D’Azur.

Ms. F: I loved the placement of the crystal embroidery in arches at the waist or like an encrusted collar around the neck and flower motifs at the hem. When you create the overall look do you design the embroideries to flatter the body or highlight certain areas of the customer?

Z.T.: That’s definitely one factor that I take into consideration when working with a customers. But very often, I have a vision in my mind of how I would like the embroidery to look. Sometimes it would work and sometimes it doesn't. We would do fittings and make changes accordingly.

Ms. F  Thank you Zang!


Now are you feeling inspired? Why don't you try your hand at the DIY project I created for you that was inspired by this collection. 
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Monday, August 19, 2013

Jill Stuart Fall 2013


jill stuart fall 2013
jill stuart dress
Wednesday Addams is all grown-up (and I mean that in a good way).  Jill Stuart's Fall 2013 collection started with look after look of coordinated black outfits.  Some sparkled, some had sheer, there was a lot of texture.  The lengths were cute and short.  A fur collar on one, tied on another, almost like an evolved version of the Gothic style icon.

Being a New Yorker, lots of black is perfect for my city lifestyle and the sexy/cute factor keeps it from being too dreary along with the gold and white accents.  That's not to say there wasn't color at all.  When I do wear color, it tends to be red, oxlood, purple and they had a grouping of pretty dresses that manipulated stripes and featured ruffles and fabric blooms.

I'm excited about the footwear here.  I love the T-strap shoe and hoping its appearance on this runway signals the return of this flattering style.  Clearly across many fashion shows, the bootie is here as a staple for another season.  No complaints there.  The hair for this fashion show is perfectly doable.  It looks blown and brushed out (about the limit of my morning routine abilities).

What do you think of the modern Wednesday look?

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Friday, August 16, 2013

Harlem Week - Fashion Flava

Are you in NYC and looking for some soul style? Check out the Fashion Flava fashion show tomorrow afternoon as one of Harlem Week's many events.

All summer long, the Upper Manhattan neighborhood has been host to arts and entertainment events, sporting events, fashion shows for all ages and genders, culinary events and culture for the whole family.  Harlem as a single neighborhood in one city has probably contributed more to America's cultural identity (think food, music...) than any other single neighborhood that I can think of.  The festival celebrates its past as well as its future.

Tomorrow's fashion show will showcase 34 different designers and feature looks that celebrate fashion fans of all shapes and sizes.

For more information and schedule, check out their site here. 
photo from Harlemweek.com 2012 fashion show
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Thursday, August 15, 2013

How to Brighten Your Summer Staples


mariana leung style
We are in the last weeks of summer and you have two weeks to get in all those travel and fashion plans you promised yourself back at Memorial Day.  My two summer resolutions were to figure out how to wear more color and head to the beach.  

New Yorkers, especially those in the fashion industry tend to favor an abundance of black in their wardrobes.  The summer season is the time to break out every bright color to meet the sun.  Don’t worry, you can take baby steps.  Also FYI, every store is mega-sale mode right now for summer goodies, even though you still have 2 months of warm weather and long days to go…

Start with your manicure.  If that’s still too much commitment, try a “neon-French” manicure.  Replace the white with your favorite shades of bright colors on your nail tips.  It’s also the easiest “nail art” look for women on-the-go.  You can just add more color and more patterns as you get comfortable.

If you can’t do head to toe color, your handbag or jewelry is an easy option.  That amazing shade of bright you always thought you couldn’t do?  That belongs on your purse.  Your statement bag should be an exclamation, not a whisper!  My little Rebecca Minkoff mini-mac is my favorite go-to piece.

Shoes are another great way to add accent color.  If you can’t get away from having your shoes match your outfit, you can opt for shoes that have some pop color.  These rockstar sandals from Alexander McQueen’s McQ line were the perfect choice.  If you do “pop” color, do it with a bang.

My second resolution of hitting the beach?  I am happy to say I got out to my haunt of Montauk, NY a few times and will also be headed there tomorrow.  I squeezed in some time (briefly) in South Beach too between my coverage of Miami Fashion week shows. 

The clock is ticking. What do YOU want to accomplish before Labor day? 

Spiced Rum’s Finally Seen the Light. Malibu Island Spiced combines Malibu’s signature blend of Caribbean rum and coconut liqueur with light spices, smoked vanilla, cinnamon and a touch of sweetness with Truvia®, zero-calorie sweetener. The result is a lo-cal, big-flavored spiced rum alternative. Find out more at https://www.facebook.com/Maliburum/app_501945323176523

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Pernod Ricard via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Pernod Ricard.



SIP EASY. ENJOY MALIBU RESPONSIBLY.
MALIBU ® Caribbean Rum with Coconut Liqueur & Natural Spices, with Truvia® Sweetener. 30% Alc./Vol. (60 Proof) ©2013 Imported by Pernod Ricard USA, Truvia® and the Truvia®  logo are registered trademarks of the Truvia Company PER 1.5 FL. OZ. SERVING. AVERAGE ANALYSIS: CALORIES 70; CARBOHYDRATES less than 1 gram; PROTEIN 0 grams; FAT 0 grams.
*when mixed with your favorite zero calorie mixer. Limes and other garnishes may add calories
Purchase, NY LLC.


Read more >>

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

J. Mendel Fall 2013

j mendel fall 2013
If you're going to do fur for fall, do it well.  The most fashionable of these is multi-generation label J. Mendel. The designer created highly modern pieces for Fall 2013 at NY Fashion Week for today's customer.  Long vests, collars, cuffs and gorgeous handbags are some ways to wear fur today. If you have a moral objection to fur however, there were plenty of luxurious looks that did not involve any animals.
j mendel dress
Metallic brocade separates, long flowing gowns with sequins and elaborate embroidery, bias seamed satin were all elegant details that allowed the J. Mendel client to wrap themselves in the same amount of luxury with or without fur.  
j mendel embroidery
As an embroidery designer, I drooled over these beautiful art deco inspired beading patterns.  Feeling like a contemporary Daisy Buchanan flirting with Gatsby? The embroidery looks so fantastic because of the delicate lines are all running down the curves of the body which is incredibly flattering.

I can's say every look was a success.  There was this one jacket with a fur peplum...What kind of woman wants a thick furry piece wrapped around her waist?  
j mendel purse
The handbags were in traditional silhouettes, but the materials were ultra-luxe, with crocodile, mink, fox and treated leathers.  My personal favorite was that trimmed mink clutch with the jeweled handle.  Love. Want. Christmas is coming...

Will you be incorporating the fur trend into your fall wardrobe?
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Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Top 5 Fashionable Cartoons

wonder woman comic
In the past year, Minnie Mouse has been landing beauty collaborations and a bunch of tributes from London fashion designers.  I wanted to compile a list of my favorite fashionable cartoon characters from my youth:

Wonder Woman
She had a killer bod and was the last person you would ever call a damsel in distress.  In my childhood, there were not a lot of female superheroes in cartoons, so she was it.  Her jewelry deflected bullets and her belt contained a lasso that made you tell the truth.  If that wasn't a ploy to get a girl love accessories, I don’t know what is…
jem cartoon

Jem
She was a music industry executive and a secret rockstar.  Her earrings  were able to project holograms of an entirely new wardrobe to fit her alter-ego.  This cartoon was the ultimate example of fashionable, wearable tech (ahead of its time!).  The teased pink hairstyles, prints and body-conscious silhouettes were the height of 80’s glam.

cinderella dress

Cinderella
She was the poster girl for rags to riches makeover.  Not only did she have a team of mice and birds to act as her personal couturiers, she had a fairy Godmother as the world’s most awesome stylist.  When she misses her curfew, it is her one-of-a-kind shoes that ultimately reunite her with her prince and the key to a serious upgrade in real estate.  Rent-the-Runway may have structured their business model on this one.

incredibles fashion designer
Edna Mode

The minute she arrived on screen in Pixar’s The Incredibles, she had my heart.  She was the eccentric compilation of all the costume and fashion design icons in history.  She was a bit of Edith Head, Carrie Donovan, Rei Kawakubo… She dressed like us fashion types do, all in black, but with lots of texture.  Her design prowess not only looked fantastic, but they addressed superhero problems.  I dressed as Edna for Halloween that year.  It was my most popular costume ever.

101 dalmations

Cruella De Vil
While 101 Dalmatians was a big, effective anti-fur fashion statement, (wearing fur kills puppies!) You have to admit that a flamboyant character who employs a gang of thugs and  has a singular obsession with making a spotted coat made for a fabulous villain.

Who was the most fashionable cartoon of your youth?
Images from Walt Disney Col,Pixar,Warner Bros.,DC Comics
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Monday, August 12, 2013

Vote For The Winner of Hpnotiq's Bling It On Contest

You showed them yourself at your most Glam.  You snapped photos of the most fabulous handbag and you announced your battle cry of “Bling it on!” with the most amazing heels in footwear history.  Your makeup look was so fierce that it is imitated by celebs while your manicure can rule the world. You know to Glam Louder or go home.

Now it’s time to be rewarded for such amazing style.  Get your vote on!  Bring your friends, your family and your fans in to vote for the finalists in the last round of Hpnotiq’s Bling It on Contest.  Support your favorite fashionistas (maybe one of them is you?)  Every vote counts towards the grand prize of a luxury trip to Los Angeles that includes a makeover, a photo shoot and a shopping spree with Khloe Kardashian.

You can check out some of the Glammest entries including Hpnotiq's personal favorites at the contest page Maybe one image will inspire your fall fashion wardrobe. Perhaps there is a photo that was your best summer outfit... Maybe you can show your love to the most outrageous look just so you can ignore the most overplayed ideas on the internet.  Yes, you can influence it all.

hpnotiq glam louderVoting starts TODAY and is open until August 21st, 2013.  To vote for the best (or ignore the rest) visit the voting page here.  Alternatively, you can visit Hpnotiq’s Facebook page.

Thank you for all of your fantastic style!

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Hpnotiq via Single Edition Media.The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Hpnotiq.

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