Byron Lars Spring 2016

Designer Byron Lars took a different approach for his spring 2016 fashion presentation. Instead an impersonal runway show, he opted for a very intimate gathering with select bloggers to share his collection. 

Proving his clothes look great on ALL women, his small squad of models included women of different sizes, ethnicities, and ages. The fans who were wearing his work in attendance also represented the above.

Media figure Teri Agins and author of Hijacking the Runway hosted a conversation with Byron Lars to discuss his inspiration behind spring 2016. This season it was a mix of textures that included power mesh, laser cut fringe, lace, ultra suede and brocade. Silhouettes had its roots in classic Haute Couture like Dior's New Look. Unique details included stamped brass insects and birds. Agins pointed out the interior details of Byron Lars pieces that most people don't see, like horsehair lining the hems to create a flared shape, built up collars or surprise linings that are removable. Those details are often my favorite part of his clothing. I swear some of Byron Lars dresses practically stand up on their own.

3D printed details, laser-cut fringe

I helped work on the introduction of his newest details. These were space age inspired silicone appliques (I think he wished I hadn't after the first few rounds). They were a labor of love that ranged from 3D rendering, printing, molds and many other steps. In the end, the result looked fantastic.

There were cheers when he announced he was launching the plus size division of his label. Full figured model Liris Crosse modeled a stunning white sheath with lace and sequin embroidery. She explained that she loved the dress because of all the internal structure to support her curves. She appreciated the design because it was very rare to see dresses for the plus sized fashion range created with so many details and thought (we all know the shapeless tunics other brands produce). Lars had always wanted to extend his size range (it currently goes to size 12) to serve more of his fans. He admitted he took it to heart when he put out a social media post as a fan of Jill Scott and someone responded that if he was a fan, why wouldn't he make clothes that would fit someone like her?

He is committing himself to really perfecting the fit and consulting with women in the size range to put out something worthy of the full figured customer. Byron Lars understands that you can't just size up a smaller size to serve the curves, so he will be developing his pieces specifically for this size range, fit with plus sized models.

If you are looking for truly special fashion pieces for spring 2016 you can collect, I can't think of better work than that of designer Byron Lars. 

Photos by Mariana Leung

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Byron Lars Fall 2015 Look Book

Divine design. The fall 2015 collection of Byron Lars did not have a specific concept at the beginning of the development. Byron had a goal of adding in pieces to his line that were more relaxed, comfortable enough for a woman to throw on quickly for work or home. He started with his wall of trims, textures, and colors and let the collection grow organically. I was on hand assisting in the lookbook photo shoot and snapped a few pics of my own to show you.

Byron Lars is a master of structured stretchy sexy:

The result is one of my favorite collections ever. You have to remember that each Byron Lars garment is a masterpiece in construction, seaming, and internal structure. This means that "simple" in his book is still anything but. There were some very pretty sweater tops with a twisted draped shoulder with tonal contrast trim that could be a very special replacement for a tee. A tunic alternative might be a shaped top with a high-low hem, artisan embroidery and fabrics sourced from three countries. As an option for a legging, there are super soft, stretchy seamed moto pants with trapunto stitching and hip panels to really shape and flatter your back assets.

There was a collection of ultra suede that was softer than any fleece I have ever felt and light enough that it draped like a silk charmeuse. I am so frustrated that I have to wait another six months to get my hands on these. They feel more comfortable than pajamas, but the draped blouses and twist front dress look like the most shapely hourglass pieces imaginable. There was a more rustic group that combined Native American patterns, South American textiles, faux fur and rugged trims but were interpreted into very tailored, elegant silhouettes.

The romantic brocade coat dress up top is a fantastic look for an offbeat bride. PR director Sheila Gray has already claimed that as her wedding dress. With most Byron Lars looks, there is a bit of irony. The flared coat dress has a more industrial gunmetal patent belt to keep it from being too sweet. The glamour makeup was done by Kenecia Lashae of Passport 2 Pretty. The retro chic 1940's hair was by Julie. 

This collection was built for curves. Byron Lars chooses fabrics with a lot of structure, but a little stretch. He designs the seam lines to accentuate or support curves. This is definitely a collection that celebrates bodies that are generally underserved by other designers. He is also looking to develop a sultry full figured line to further serve his fans. I have to say that to see his clothes on a hanger or photos do NOT do them justice. They really need to be tried on and twirled around in to appreciate them (trust me, I do that more than I care to admit).

Here's my behind-the-scenes video at the Byron Lars Fall 2015 Lookbook shoot:

video and photos by Mariana Leung

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Byron Lars Fall 2014 & Giveaway

It is the most stylish summer ever.  Designer Byron Lars presented his fall 2014 collection to editors and fans in an intimate event at the Pratt Institute gallery Tuesday night.  Models Ashley, Minyoung and Sheila J. modeled some of Byron’s favorite looks from the season. 

Most of the stylists and editors who attended were already big supporters of the designer judging by the number of women who wore Byron Lars to the event.  Author Lauren M. Bias wore a metallic pieced sheath and director Sidra Smith wore a twist front laser cut coral dress to the party.

Julep and Bluffa Jo cosmetics provided some rich hues in nail lacquer to complement the colors of the collection, while Mizani hair products helped to glam up the models’  do’s. 

The Byron Lars team truly pampered party guests as they nibbled on Pop Chips and gourmet bits from my new Garment Center favorite, Café Kabila.  The Moroccan influenced fare had mini bastilla pastries, sliders and brie tartlets with cool mint tea.  Make My Cake bakery from Uptown Manhattan provided rich cupcakes and brownies in the gift bag.  There are certainly a lot of cupcake makers in this town, but I watched a model (whom I have never seen eat, let alone touch sugar) inhale two cakes in about 30 seconds.  If that’s not a testament to their tastiness, I don’t know what is.

Are you looking for post-party indulgence? The Upper East Side spa Sphatika offered guests pampering services with a special discount.  If you love Byron’s designer glasses, you can shop for your own with a 3D virtual try-on experience from DITTO who gave out give certificates. 

A personalized gift from Byron Lars was a soft scarf made especially for the fashion party that was printed with his sketches of the collection. 

Now, I wouldn't tease all of you with these goodies if you didn't have a chance to get them for yourself!  Byron Lars is offering up the VIP gift bag from the event in his “Designer for a Day” Challenge.  Style the paper dolls with your version of his looks and submit by noon on June 26, 2014.  Good Luck!

 Photos by Mariana Leung

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#NYFW: Byron Lars Inclusive Sizing Runway

The best trend out of Spring 2017 so far, Byron Lars flaunted most prominently. Several fashion designers have shown models beyond the typical "runway model" shape and proportion to reflect the diversity of their customer better. Lars referred to his new season, both ready-to-buy fall 2016 and spring 2017 as "inclusive" sizing.

His fans demanded his beautiful work to fit a larger range of customers. He took it to heart and researched what the plus sized market was doing wrong that so much full-figured were frustrated. I am happy to say I worked on this collection with Byron. From experience, I knew that most brands that even bother to produce clothing are larger sizes are simply sizing up. Lars spent months casting full-figured models, working with fashion fans, patternmakers and clothing construction to offer customers of ALL sizes the same impeccable fit and finish he is known for.

To be honest, some of the beautifully gathered and shaped dresses looked better on models of larger sizes and curves than models of the smaller size range. That shows what good design can do for a figure. Others flattered the athletic runner's body, as was demonstrated by Olympic medalist Kristi Castlin.

The clothes themselves, his famous sheath dresses are the standout. If you take the time to look closely at each dress, you will find an amazing amount of detail. There might be laser cut chiffon layered on top of print or mesh. There could be jewels, wood or metal embroidery around the neck. Brocade could be pieces with lace in body framing seams. You could be wrapped in impossibly twisted vegan suede so soft you want to sleep in it.

The front row wasn't so much about celebrities as it was a reunion of longtime fashion colleagues. I loved seeing legendary icon Fern Mallis, designer Tracy Reese, and Byron Lars getting silly after hugging it out on the red carpet. 

Congratulations Byron Lars on both Fall 2016 (grab it before it sells out) and the Spring 2017 collection. Inclusive sizing in fashion is what we all need.

All photos by Mariana Leung

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Byron Lars Fall 2014 Lookbook & Interview

Do you need a preview of what I will be wearing this fall?  I am fitting and shopping the Byron Lars Fall 2014 lookbook this week.  The fabulous Byron Lars, is being honored at the Pratt Institute Fashion show + Cocktail Benefit tonight with the Fashion Visionary Award.  He is a designer who is beloved by many celebrities for his fantastic fit and impeccable construction.  His success was not easy. It came with hard work and tough lessons along the way.  The new class of fashion designers can learn a lot from his wisdom:

Ms. FABulous: What are your favorite memories of studying fashion in school?

Byron Lars: I can't believe I'm saying this because, I'm pretty sure I didn't see it this way back then but looking back, my favorite part of studying fashion in school was pulling all-nighters by stowing away in the lab, hiding from campus security by turning out the lights as they made the rounds. 

This was the only truly focused stretch of time that I remember having to really get your hands in the work and keep them there...well till sunrise anyway.

Ms. FAB: What is one piece of advice that you could have used at the start of your career that most people don’t tell you?  

B.L.: What ever that might have been would more than likely have sent me running for the hills because, many of the realities of this and any industry I would imagine need to be revealed at a point when it's too late to turn back.  I guess Winston Churchill said it best, "If you're going through hell, keep going.".

Ms. FAB:  What advantages do this year’s fashion school graduates have that they should take advantage of?  

B.L.:  Every fashion student should take full advantage of as many internships as they possibly can (even if that only ends up being only one) to make their first professional contacts. 

Of course this means that you need to give your absolute all every day while interning.  This might even mean being relegated to running for coffee and little else BUT, if that ends up being the case, make absolutely sure that each and every cup of coffee you deliver is hot...unless of course it's ice coffee. 

Doing a great job without complaining will get you noticed in the best way by somebody which may just lead to your first paying job in the industry.    

Ms. FAB: In a tough industry or job market, what would you tell a frustrated fashion designer as part of your pep talk?

B.L.: We'd never have any sweet delicious lemonade without the sour lemons required to make it, right? 

So often, it's the struggles incurred during the toughest of times that summon and rouse the muse in ways that no other state of being  ever could.  The business of fashion is by nature mercurial but never more so than it is now, so these times are about adjusting ones thinking to become ever more responsive to the many rapid fire changes occurring daily.  

Ms. FAB: Thank you Byron Lars!
photos by Noah Chen, Mariana Leung

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Byron Lars Spring 2015 Look Book Shoot

The Ms. Fabulous team hung out behind the scenes of the Byron Lars Spring 2015 look book shoots to drool over his latest collection.  The designer has had a notable 2014. He presented his spring 2015 collection at Harlem Fashion Row while also receiving the Fashion Designer of the Year award.  Earlier in May, he was also honored with the Pratt Institute’s Fashion Visionary Award.    In chatting with Byron though, he is too humble to let it affect his ego or approach to work (he was even reluctant to let his proud team congratulate him online).

For spring 2015, Byron Lars made a conscientious decision to create a collection with more casual, easy pieces.  He actually cites his recent work with HSN in helping him understand how he could design more every day clothes for all shapes that are still interesting.  That certainly doesn’t mean you should expect shapeless blocks on a hanger from him.  Even more relaxed items, like tunics and shirts have exquisite details and textured fabrics.  He certainly knows how to create a structured diva outfit for a posh luncheon or red carpet.  Now he dresses the diva who can lounge on her couch as well.

The color palette for much of the collection was a season less black, white and neutral pumice.  There were accent colors like cantaloupe and amethyst purple.  There were embellished pieces like the Guatemalan inspired lace blouses embroidered with tiny worry dolls or the intricately textured jacket in native textiles.  I am honored to hear that Byron was inspired by some of my travel photos for those pieces (which were my favorites).   Lace appliques on lace were a pretty combination along with layered laser-cut details on everything from georgette to vegan leather.  A beautiful nature art print and fabrics like multi-colored confetti on black allow those of us who stick to our Gotham wardrobe colors to add some ‘pop’.

I am so excited for spring to come around so I can start working these Byron Lars pieces into my wardrobe.  Yay 2015!  

Photos by Mariana Leung

Byron Lars Spring 2015 - Harlem Fashion Row

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FAB Exclusive: Byron Lars - First Lady Favorite

Byron Lars is one of Ms. FAB’s fashion idols. He is also on the FLOTUS short list of go-to designers. Our most fashionable First Lady, Michelle Obama, wore Byron Lars Beauty Mark to a high profile concert event held at the White House in June. PBS will air Paul McCartney: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song In Performance at the White House" tonight on your local PBS station.

FAB Ritika got lucky and snagged an exclusive interview, a studio tour and a top secret peek at the 'First Sketch’ of the dress.

Mrs. Obama sketch in Byron Lars Beauty Mark

Byron at work in his studio

MsFABulous: What were some of your inspirations as you were designing the Fall 2010 collection?

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Byron Lars Spring 2013

I have made no attempt to hide that Byron Lars is one of my favorite designers of all time.  His New York Fashion Week presentation was small and intimate in his showroom.  They bring everyone who works with them into the family.

For spring 2013, the designer brought his signature sculpted silhouettes.  Supremely tailored pieces with intricate seaming details, mixing materials and fabrication techniques for a luxe bohemian feel, laser cut and crochet.  The Byron Lars is not meant to take herself too seriously, even if the clothes she is wearing are seriously constructed.

The reason I personally buy so many pieces of from Byron is that they are built to support and flatter the curviest of women (no matter where your curves happen to be).  Everyone from Kim Kardashian to First Lady Michelle Obama flaunt his edgy/elegant chic.

Photos by Mariana Leung

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NY FASHION WEEK: Byron Lars Fall 2011

Native Americana was Byron Lars’ theme for Fall 2011.  While many designers looked to patriotic history for inspiration this season, Byron did with drama and a sense of humor.

His signature tailoring and ruched details were present.  This designer most dominates my personal closet. Each garment is impeccably made, cut to flatter a womanly figure (and is forgiving). His fabrics this fall included textured tweed, speckled boucle, cozy faux shearling to more delicate metallic brocade and lace. 

Mizani and L’oreal styled the models hair into tongue-in-cheek renditions of the Mohawk, giving new meaning to the word “fierce”.  The make-up was also a chic take on “war-paint”. 

The designer kept the presentation at Lincoln Center fun.  Champagne was served and a butch drummer kept the tribal beat going.

 No less than four designers that I went to school with interned with him in the 1990’s.  They raved about his work and about the man himself.  He greeted West Coast FAB correspondent, Mdivani Monroe enthusiastically, a man who had spent many hours resizing zippers for Lars.  Besides my fellow Parsons alumni, Byron Lars has recently garnered fame for counting First Lady Michelle Obama as a fan as well.

Check out our exclusive interview with the designer:

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NYFW: In Earnest, Byron Lars Spring 2023

 Welcome back to NYFW! Starting off with In Earnest, Byron Lars Spring 2023. Designer Byron Lars brings things back to being an independent atelier with partner Sheila Gray. His beautifully textured fabrics mixed artfully with floral prints, and corset detailing with comfort make this collection so crave-worthy. 

In a post-pandemic world, we are all still trying to figure out what our personal style is now. There are sporty, leisurely elements in this collection for those who are still clinging to the work-at-home wardrobe. However, the athletic components are there for comfort, but the execution is very glam. Embroideries, sparkling embellishments, lace, but all with some stretch and flare. Each individual garment was a statement garment. Every dress, skirt, short, and top had a romantic element for spring but could be worn with practicality. 

The muse for this season was vintage Harlem glamour. You can see the inspiration in the silhouettes and styling. All you need now is to listen to the jazz as you dress.

For an accessible piece that displays their artistry, I always love the fashion illustrated t-shirts. If you're not ready for that dramatic dress, their tees are a canvas for their style that you can pair with jeans.

Anyone who is a longtime reader already knows how much I love this brand. Byron and Sheila are the best of this industry and I'm so happy to see the collection thriving.

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Fashion Fostering Connectivity Sheila Gray and Byron Lars Fashion Show

Feeling thankful today. The fashion, art, and media communities are huge, so why aren't we networking more? Last Friday, Sheila Gray presented the Fashion Fostering Connectivity Panel  to remedy that. I am so grateful for the empowering event. The evening started with an informal fashion show featuring both Sheila's collection and Byron Lars collection where the models were an inclusive group both in culture, size, shape, backgrounds, but with a common trait of giving back to the community. I was honored to be asked to be a part of this "model" lineup!

Sheila Gray, who is also PR director for Byron Lars in addition to her up-and-coming accessories collection, put this wonderful event together. She brought in author/editor Constance White (personal woman crush as a writer), Dale Noelle of True Model Management, Adrienne Jones, Cheryl McGinnis, Mary Ann Wheaton, Lisa Marie and Hello Beautiful publisher Danielle James. These power women discussed the challenges of working in their media, art, fashion fields, coming up against the establishment as women and as people of color. They stressed the importance of sharing, networking, talking to each other and then stayed to follow through with the guests in attendance.

Models were equally inspiring. Actress Lisa Arrindale introduced herself right in the model lineup before we headed to the runway to share and give thanks for being there to set the tone. Leslie Taub is a dancer and physically challenged model rocking classic Hollywood blonde glam, promoting strength and empowerment by example. Kyria Jaide Hughes, Jerrica Patton, Jasmine Moore, Alex Ferguson, Frankie Tavares, Keely Bembry, Chelsea Henriques, and Nicole Quintero all devote a good portion of their life to great causes and with entrepreneurial projects of their own.

I wore a twist front black Byron Lars dress (one of my favorite styles of his) with some fabulous silver and black statement necklaces by Sheila Gray. Those spiky stud gloves were a DIY one-off from Byron that he made for the look. Those huge glasses were a tribute to legends like Edith Head, Edna Mode, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Carrie Donovan.

I contributed my newly launched Wicked Finch Boozy Jam collection to the gift bags for the event. Other goodies included the newest makeup color trends and lots of sweet treats.

So how do you connect with your fashion peers? What do you think of all the gorgeous Byron Lars Fashion? Reach out and network with your colleagues and introduce them to each other. You never know how the right connection can help someone else!

Photos by Mariana Leung

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Fashion Fights Cancer with Byron Lars

An intimate event took place last week at Midtown Manhattan’s Audi Forum.  Fashion Fights Cancer president, Ty Canty and superstar designer Byron Lars presented a special group of ladies and their creations to the world.

The non-profit organization brings together the fashion community to raise awareness and funds to battle cancer. The project brought together Byron Lars and cancer patients Frances Ricks, Muriel Asnis, Barbara Moskowitz, Peggy Siegel and Carmen Diaz to create hand painted scarves under the mentorship of the designer. 

Some women were seasoned artists; some found a surprising new outlet for creative expression.  Muriel Asnis was already a jewelry designer and donated some of her work to a fundraising auction for the organization.

 The ladies modeled their silk scarves on top of Byron Lars’ blouses.  As gorgeous as the designer’s pieces were, nothing looked as beautiful on these women as their smiles of accomplishment.
Cupcakes and champagne were served.  Guests also went home with gift bags of Godiva chocolates and Mizani hair products.
Future events include designers Tracy Reese and Jason Wu.  To donate or get involved, please visit Fashion Fights Cancer on the web. 

photos by Mariana Leung

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Byron Lars and Tasha Smith at ABFF

Fashion, film, and style go hand in hand. How you dress an actor can contribute as much to the character as the performance itself. Actress Tasha Smith made that point and insisted to her wardrobe staff that her favorite designer Byron Lars be included in her costumes when she worked on the show For Better Or Worse. This was all a part of the panel discussion hosted by Brandice Daniel of Harlem's Fashion Row at the American Black Film Festival over the weekend.

Harlem's Fashion Row has been an advocate for emerging talent in fashion for people of color. The organization also celebrates those who have achieved success as an inspiration for others to follow. The panel discussion asked Tasha Smith (now co-starring on one of my favorite style-centric shows Empire) about overcoming obstacles, using what makes you unique and supporting others to succeed with you.

Fashion designer Byron Lars discussed the hard work and perseverance it took to get the most prestigious retailers to make appointments and carry his collection. In the end, good product and incredible design are what ultimately hooked fans like Michelle Obama, the Smith sisters, the Kardashians, celebrities from Angela Bassett to Elle Fanning to Paris Hilton to love his looks. 

He had a mini presentation of his favorite looks from the current season. I loved the sexy, multi-cultural edge that the models were styled with, using handmade necklaces from Sheila Gray and shoes from Machi Footwear.

Winning in the entertainment and fashion industry is tough enough. Entering these fields as a minority in any form is even tougher. The lesson learned from today is to find good people to support you and great people to mentor you. 

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Sales Alert! Byron Lars, Century 21, Candela, Revolve Clothing

Byron Lars:
Sexy, constructed, true designer creations from Byron Lars are worth every penny at retail.  Lucky for you, they have an amazing sample sale which makes these pieces even more awesome.  This is my number one sale, I purchase more here than any other single designer.  I'm not alone, as Byron counts Michelle Obama, Elle Fanning and Kim Kardashian as recent fans.
When: July 9th - July 11th, 2012.  10 AM - 5 PM
Where:  Byron Lars Beauty Mark Showroom

          250 West 39th Street (Between 7th an 8th Avenue)

                Suite 1605 on the 16th Floor

Candela:

Gabriella Perezutti's collection of pretty, chic sportswear with an equestrian edge is a big hit at Sak's and Neiman Marcus.  You can score them at big discounts off retail at their ready-to-wear and shoe sale next week:

When: July 9th to July 12th.  10 AM - 7 PM

Where: 584 Broadway, Ste.1007, btwn Houston and Prince St., NYC

Century 21:
Lots of very posh labels are hidden in this department store of bargain goodness.  At 75% off retail, how can you say no?

When: Now until the end of July
Where: Multiple Locations.  Check here.


Revolve Clothing:
This online sale is practically giving goodies away.  Up to 95% off edgy, casual, denim brands.

When: NOW
Where: Online here.

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Behind The Scenes: Byron Lars Spring 2014

So here is a sneak peek at one of my favorite designers of all time.  Byron Lars allowed the Ms. Fab team to hang out for their Spring 2014 lookbook photo shoot.  The next few months will be difficult as I saw many pieces that I can't wait to buy and wear.

There was a great group of dresses with a candy colored tweed print by our own Mdivani Monroe. This was paired with a pieced argyle top, corset-like patent belts, metallic basketweave fabrics and lasercut details.  Other dresses mixed brocade and spikes, embroidered tulle, chains and an ironic/pretty moth print.

I love that this designer always makes sexy, but elegant clothes that flatter power women with curves.  (Michelle Obama is a consistent fan!) As intricate as the details can get in each dress, Byron never takes himself too seriously.  Even with a sleek, sheath silhouette, you might find three layers of fabrics in cut-outs, lace and prints to build a layered, textured depth to the design.  This then might be topped with manipulated trims or sequins or ribbon.

The amount of work and consideration that goes into each look is astounding.  I am lucky enough to have started contributing to this collection is a tiny way by organizing some of the production.  I get to drool over each piece as I measure and send fit corrections to the buyers.

For the lookbook shoot itself, the styling stayed simple.  Straight, sleek hair pulled into variations ont on the ponytail.  Makeup colors stayed naturalistic.  Models Anna and Jasmin seemed to really enjoy vamping it up in outfits they loved more and more.

I can't wait to see which celebrity picks this collection up first.  Care to wager a guess?

photos by Mariana Leung

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Sales Alert: Byron Lars, Helmut Lang, Theory, Tory Burch Sample Sales

This is a good (or bad for my wallet) week for shopping as two of my favorite labels are having a big sample sale.  Are they yours too? 

Byron Lars Beauty Mark:

Not for wallflowers, this collection will make a bombshell out of anyone.  Byron Lar's clothing is designed to flatter the sexiest parts of anyone with the best tailoring tricks, smoke, mirrors and intricate details.  Michelle Obama, Kim Kardashian, Dakota Fanning and scores of other celebrities are already in the know about this label.  Try the clothes on just once and you'll be hooked like I was.  Prices will be below wholesale.

When: Tuesday, June 4, 2013, 10 AM to 6 PM

Where: 241 West 37th street, suite 401, New York NY 10018

Helmut Lang Sample Sale:

This edgy, sleek label takes up the other part of my closet after Byron Lars.  Their artful draping, super-light knits and asymmetrical lines make me feel downtown cool and not the dork that I often am.    I won't be missing this sale either...

When: Now until Wednesday, June 5, 2013, 11 AM - 7 PM

Where: 261West 36th Street, 2nd floor, New York NY 10018

Theory Men's Sample Sale:  

My male fashionista fans complain that my sales listings don't cater enough to them, so this one is for YOU.  Clean, fashion forward label Theory is hosting their men's only sample sale  so all of you will never have an excuse again to show up to a chic event without making us drool.

When: Wednesday, June 5 - Saturday, June 8, 10 AM - 7 PM, Sunday, June 9, 2013, 10 AM - 5 PM
Where: Chelsea Market, 75 9th Avenue, New York NY

Tory Burch Sample Sale:
Heading out to the Hamptons? Don't forget the unofficial uniform of blondie Tory Burch tunics, double T flats and over-sized bag.  The sale will have current spring merchandise including clothes, shoes and bags.

When: Tuesday, June 11 - Saturday, June 15, 2013, 11 AM - 7 PM

Where: 261West 36th Street, 2nd floor, New York NY 10018

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Harlem's Fashion Row Collaboration with Byron Lars, Krystal A. Phillips on HSN

Are you ready for "sweater weather"? I bought my warm-weather favorites from Harlem's Fashion Row in collaboration with HSN. I love that the size range goes up to 3X, so my fashion friends of all shapes can indulge in this one. Perrenial Ms. Fabulous favorite Byron Lars and designer Krystal A. Phillips are both featured in HSN's celebration of African-American fashion designers. Extra-enticing means you can grab their pieces at the HSN price point if the designers have previously been out of reach.

My color obsession for Fall 2024 has been deep fushia. The Harlem's Fashion Row HSN collaboration has abundant this color and other hues. I started with the oversized full Melton coat (top) from Kaphill NYC, which I threw on the first chilly day upstate while picking ugly apples off my tree. For a dressier evening-wear-friendly look, I wrapped in the luxurious brocade coat from Byron Lars and Sheila Gray.

I'm in love with the beautiful textures, like lace t-shirts and the rich prints of the sweaters and dresses of both designers. They elevate essential garment items to make them the statement piece for your seasonal wardrobe. I also can't wait to flaunt the faux leather long skirt as a flashy piece to pair with new boots.

While fashion insiders like me have been longtime fans of  Byron Lars, Sheila Gray, and designers promoted by Harlem's Fashion Row, I love that an affordable platform like HSN has invested in these brands to bring them to a much broader audience. It was a great move for everyone as the styles I loved were sold out quickly but, luckily, replenished swiftly. Grab them before they are really gone!

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Byron Lars Fall 2013

 I have made no secret that Byron is one of my all time favorite designers.  This Fall 2013 collection left me drooling and upset that I would not be able to get my hands on it for my closet for another few months.

Byron was inspired by his fabrics this season, many that he developed himself over the past few seasons.  There was a gorgeous leather-like laminated lace fabric that was made into a fitted dress and sexy jacket.  There were fabric fused neoprene outfits in super bright colors as well as faux leather paillette pieces.  Animal lovers, you will be happy to learn that no actual animal skins were used in this collection.

Byron's clothes look fantastic on ladies with curves as they are seamed, pieced and fitted for the shape of the ultra feminine body.  These are not clothes for the wallflower... They make every woman a diva!

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The Path Redefined with Lauren Maillian Bias

Do you dream of being a mogul? Being an entrepreneur and creating a bestselling personal brand? Lauren Maillian Bias knows a bit about that.  Her new book, The Path Redefined: Getting to the Top on Your Own Terms details the tactics and skills she used to make herself a success in three different industries before the age of 30.  The author signed books at the launch party in the Meatpacking District location of the Sephora boutique.

 In this day and age, there are few opportunities for a fast trajectory in the corporate world, especially on a diversity level.  Those with an entrepreneurial spirit can turn the odds in their own favor.  Ms. Bias worked on multiple career paths in addition to being a mother of two.

   Fans of the author sipped on white wine and mini cupcakes between the stacks of beauty goods. It brought out similarly successful entrepreneurs from fashion world like celebrity stylist June Ambrose and designer Byron Lars; who dressed Lauren for the party.

Observing the event for Lauren Maillian Bias, you might have to rely on yourself to get to the top, but having friends that cheer for your success make it that much sweeter.

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