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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Jazz Age Lawn Party Style 2018

It's the Bees Knees baby! I danced the day away at the Jazz Age Lawn Party this weekend at Governor's Island. It was a celebration of all things of the 1920s in the spirit of a Great Gatsby party, flapper style, and jazz. I love that New York comes out in full for an event like this. The full lawn was covered in elaborate picnic set-ups of fans fully dressed for the period. I love that I saw lots of children to lots of seniors from every ethnic group embracing the music and culture of this era. 

There were lots of beautiful beaded and fringe flapper dresses as you would expect. Due to the warm weather, vintage 1920s style swimwear was a big hit for both men and women as well. I saw more gender fluidity where there were women who embraced the male collegiate looks with other men or more casual suspenders and men's tailoring for a dapper look. Daywear fashion and nautical looks also made the cut.

Charleston lessons were taught at the beginning, leading to a Charleston competition later in the day. Vintage cars were on display as well as vintage fashion vendors. There was a booth from the Penumbra foundation, making old-style tintype portraits using original techniques involving varnish, silver and bunsen burners.
Music was the driving force behind the event produced by Michael Arenella and his Dreamland Orchestra. The awesome vocals of Queen Esther kept everyone dancing. I really love that there was a Gramophone DJ spinning on original machines in between live music.
How lovely is spending a summer day on an island dressed up in some glamor? The bright sun brought out lots of handheld fans and beautifully crocheted parasols, pagoda umbrellas and paper parasols as well.
I missed the Coney Island Mermaid Parade also happening on the same day. My subway car was full of fish people and flappers! How amazing is New York City that there are enough fans of both eclectic events to populate them with crowds on the same day? How great is it that I actually have to choose which one to go to?
I call this a summer crowd-sourced vintage show. You can indulge in retro-themed cocktails while you dance the day away. They do this again in August! Come and show me your best moves at the next Jazz Age Lawn Party baby!

Photos by Mariana Leung

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Dances of Vice Venetian Valentine Grande Masquerade

Happy Valentine's Day! Yours truly celebrated this romantic day with Dances of Vice's Venetian Valentine Masquerade Ball. The venue was the dramatic former bank in Manhattan's Lower East Side. The soaring columns were lit with artistic lighting and draped velvets and silks.
The dress code was Venetian opulence (or naughtiness) with masks being a required element. Alternatively, guests could choose a black tie, but thankfully, most complied with the theme. The main floor was packed with glamorous costumes and a floor show of burlesque, opera, aerialists, and contortionists to give the air of an elegant circus. These performers came courtesy of Company XIV, known for their erotic Nutcracker Rouge production during the holiday season in NYC.
The upper floors were reserved for VIP ticket holders. They included a lounge of the martini glass and vintage bathtub burlesque dancers to tickle your fancy. A mesmerizing juggler looked like he was just casting a spell to make glass balls levitate. A more risque lounge was dedicated to BDSM demonstrations for curious guests. I would call it "bondage light" for newbies who wanted to explore the equipment in a comfortable, supportive crowd.
Shien Lee, the founder of Dances of Vice, produced this extravagant party. For years, she has been the maven who got New Yorkers to dress up and party in theme for the most stylish soirees. Her events have grown more and more popular, taking over massive venues each season.
I dressed up in an outfit inspired by Shakespeare's Titania of a Midsummer's Night's Dream. Hubby was my Oberon in tails. This is an event where you go all out and wear that crazy extravagant outfit that you could never imagine wearing. I can't imagine a more stylish, sexy way to spend Valentine's week with a  (lusted after) loved one.

Photos by Mariana Leung and Adam Weinstein

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Jack Daniels House No. 7 - Brooklyn Navy Yard

Summer in NYC means epic parties. Jack Daniels Tennesee Whiskey throws a house party like no other. Jack Daniels House No. 7 imagines the lifestyle of a Rock n' Roller on the road right in Brooklyn's Navy Yard.

You check into the venue, the most stylish chambermaids and hostesses give you a key. A team of attractive bellboys gives you a ride in their cart straight.tp the bar. A bar filled with Jack Daniels concoctions of course. My favorites being Jack and ginger beer and lemonade. 

Southern specialties like loaded fries, fried chicken, and mashed potatoes in waffle cones, sweet and tangy Miss Bobo's meatballs keep you fueled up for the festivities.

Up for a physical challenge? Roller derby girls and basketball tricksters will prompt you to up your game. I was never that ambitious, so I opted for the hair makeover at the salon. You could spin the wheel to help you decide on any number of rocker styles. I didn't think I could pull off a Mohawk or mullet so stylist Siobhan Quinlan (with awesomely pink hair) have me a Rockabilly bouffant. I wore a long sheer plaid shirt and leather skirt.

If you wanted some Jack Daniels culture, you could have the barrel master laser etch a piece of Whiskey aged oak for you. For high-tech pursuits, try the virtual reality tour of their headquarters. 

You could get down and dirty in the house rooms that included floor to ceiling pillows, bouncy beds, and karaoke. Access to secret VIP areas could come by impressing the severe team of Dominatrix-like chambermaids by succeeding at challenges they have forth. 

Thank you, Jack Daniels, for rocking my world with a visit to House No. 7!

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Coney Island Mermaid Parade 2017 Boardwalk Style

Summer is here in Brooklyn when the Coney Island Mermaid Parade hits the boardwalk. The creative mermaid costumes, sexy sea outfits, and marine creatures parade in this grass roots 35-year tradition. It originated within the artist and circus folk community.

The costumes range from simple bikinis, seashells, and netting to elaborately constructed wearable floats. There is a lot of skin, but the parade is family friendly. While colors and sparkle are the norms, there are a few Gothic fashion lovers in the mix. Mystical creatures of all sorts are mixed in, like unicorns and satyrs. There are a lot of pop culture hybrids, like "Clamilton The Musical", Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland mermaid group costumes.

This year, I saw a lot more protest outfits. There were the "Handmermaids of Gilead" in tribute to The Handmaid's Tale to raise awareness of feminist issues. There were several environmental protest looks, ranging from saving the oceans, the EPA and other organizations. A Trump impersonator getting caught in a net was a visual punchline. Performance groups sang and danced protest messages along the parade that were supportive of the Women's March.

My look incorporated a Diane Von Furstenberg blue wave wrap dress mixed with tentacles and paired with a mermaid crown I made. I walked and photographed the parade. What I love most about walking along the Surf Avenue route and boardwalk is the ecstatic expressions on everyone's face. Everyone is so happy to dress up as a fantasy creature or see others dressed as one. The crowd is incredibly diverse. People of all genders, ethnic, shape, orientation, and physical abilities are well represented and supported. I was pleasantly surprised to see minimal corporate sponsorship, so the parade really felt it was put on by creatives for creatives.

The Coney Island Mermaid Parade is an event you need to experience at least once in your lifetime. I highly recommend you dress the part to fully experience the fun. If you do, get ready for me to catch you in my lens!
Photos by Mariana Leung

Also on Ms. Fabulous:

Steampunk Style at the World Faire

Cosplay Trends of NY Comic-Con

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Wanderlust & Relationship Goals at the Steampunk World's Fair 2017

Heading off to the Steampunk World's Fair is an escape from reality. Sure you're wandering the halls of two hotels, but it is the attitude of the Steampunk genre that provides the getaway. The overarching theme of this year's Steampunk fashion looks was wanderlust following all modes of travel. 

Air travel, dirigibles, hot air balloons and dashing pilots have been a mainstay of Steampunk style. I also saw lots of sea travel, octopus motifs, pirates and captains with a huge range of accessories to match. Then I saw lots of couples that evoked the safari-exploring folk of 1800's. Many others who didn't follow the clockwork gears and test tube sci-fi look leaned more toward the "steam" aspect of the style and dressed in cruise or train traveling attire from earlier eras. 

Unlike some alternative fashion trends like Lolitas and mermaids, Steampunk is one adopted by entire families and couples. I saw many couples with coordinating outfits strolling the runway (parking lot) of the World Faire. Unfortunately, I didn't get to coordinate my look with my partner. He decided to put the "Punk" in Steampunk while I went for a fashion look.
I love how inclusive Steampunk style is. The Faire clearly drew and encouraged all shapes, ethnicities, ages to flaunt their style. It was very accommodating to guests of all physical abilities (one badass guest pimped out her wheelchair front into a Steampunk motorcycle).

Steampunk style has reached most of the mainstream. Many recent television shows and movies
have incorporated the aesthetic into their set design. Steampunk jewelry has worked its way into everyday fashion. Who doesn't like a little romance, history, and fantasy in your closet and your life?
Photos by Mariana Leung

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NYWIFT Muse Awards

The New York Women in Film and Television (NYWIFT) Muse awards were the inspiring event I needed to see in today's current hostile climate. Women in the media are being attacked left and right for expressing any type of thought, for their work, for simply being visible at all.

The Muse Awards honorees are all women who have been brave both personally and in their work. I was fortunate to speak to many of them at last week's luncheon. Bloomberg Media's Jacki Kelly noted that the first NYWIFT gathering was born from the infamous 1977 blackout in New York City. Probably from the collective energy of the amazing women who founded it.

The Woman Who Inspired Debi Mazar, Mary Louise Parker and Martha Plimpton:

Debi Mazar, a lifelong New Yorker has played some sassy and sexy characters. I am an even bigger fan of her Cooking Channel show with husband Gabriele Corcos, Extra Virgin. It is the ultimate lifestyle fantasy of a couple living a fabulous life of Tuscan beauty, Italian food and passion for each other. Him, the European chef, her the New York wit. She wore a striking outfit from Italian designer Francesco Scognamiglio. When asked which women in the industry was her muse, Mazar proudly stated "my first manager Peg Donegan of 28 years, we're still together!"

Martha Plimpton, completely elegant in an Escada suit, kept me in stitches the entire day. She has been a favorite to me since her role in Goonies. I was a big fan of her Patti Nyholm character in The Good Wife and Raising Hope. She is now in The Real O'Neals. Her acceptance speech began with "I have no prepared remarks, you're in for a treat." She then launched into her tribute to Dean Martin's lush speeches (but was much funnier). She did make a poignant statement about art. She expressed, "All art is a form of activism, even if it is neutral." To create and make your mark in the world, even for yourself, is to stand for something. I asked Plimpton who the most inspiring woman was in the industry for her. She replied "Meryl Streep. She is at the pinnacle of where grace meets talent". When asked about work, she seeks to be around people who are kind, a word I kept hearing over and over again throughout the day.

Mary Louise Parker has played some of my favorite complex female characters in dramas and comedies like RED and Weeds. I asked how she found balance as a working mother. I'm always doing a bunch of things at once. "Walking the dog and learning my lines. When you're able to absolutely nothing, it's incredible. When you have children, it's good to know you have support."  The woman who inspired her? "Susan Sarandon was incredibly good and supportive friend to me. She always puts children first. Her heart is always in the right place. She has always been kind to me, and I have seen her be kind to other people".

Honoree Marcia Smith founded Firelight Media, a non-profit that supports the projects of indie filmmakers and producers of color, a group vastly underrepresented in mainstream media. Her organization has won every award in television. Unfortunately, I was not able to speak to her on the red carpet, but her speech challenged women to "dare to be powerful."

Amy Goodman, producer, and the host of Democracy Now! was honored with the Loreen Arbus Changemaker award. She stressed how critical free speech was, especially in this time where media and journalists were being attacked. Her story on the Dakota Access Pipeline was also shown, which was a catalyst for mass coverage and support for the protest. Goodman was arrested and threatened like many great journalists before her. In this toxic election year, the media has been targeted in a way that it hasn't been in many years.

It was a treat to be surrounded by a full ballroom of accomplished creative women. NYWIFT events are inspirational with their mission of supporting each other. The clear theme of the day was KINDNESS. This concept was important as 2016 seemed to project a lack of it. Valuing humanity and kindness in others are now viewed as progressive. Here's hoping 2017 proves us wrong.

Photo by Mariana Leung

Also on Ms. Fabulous:
NYWIFT Gala Honoring Costume Design, Hair and Makeup
Secrets of The Good Wife's Costume Department

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Shop Your Holiday Dress With B. Michael at Macy's

Haven't found your perfect party dress yet? Holiday shopping at Macy's is an event unto itself. There are fashion shows with designers, Santaland, fireworks, tree lighting, parades or Believe Day in cities all over the country. In New York, I will be joining fashion designer B. Michael on Wednesday, December 7, 2016, from 6 PM - 8 PM.

B. Michael has brought the glamor to past New York Fashion Week runways and will be at the Macy's Herald Square location to help party gals like you and me find that special dress. He's the ultimate NYC designer, starting on Wall Street before working his way through the ateliers of Oscar de la Renta and Louis Feraud. He is proud to make manufacturing his collection New York a priority. Writing as someone who has worked the industry, that is a challenging commitment to make.

Some of the looks I plan on trying on Wednesday evening include a few shimmering sheath dresses and jackets in elegant abstract patterns. I particularly love the outfit with the red printed evening topper. 

You can consider Wednesday evening's Macy's event with B. Michael a party in itself. There will be live music and treats in addition to the fashion presentation. Just call it holiday soiree #1 (of many?) It's free! Care to join me?

Just show up and play #MacysBelieve

This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency on behalf of Macy's; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. 
Photos courtesy of  B. Michael America

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Stylish Event Tip: Olives From Spain

I love the fall and all of the parties that come with it. Taking a break from Bridal Fashion Week, I got to indulge in Spain's tastiest exports at the Spain's Great Match event in Manhattan. I was able to explore the various wine regions of Spain and the rich wines, sherry, and Cava they produce. The big star of the event? Olives From Spain. I never knew they were so versatile.

Rushing between photo shoots, I was ecstatic to try the delicious offerings at the Spain's Great Match event. I am currently planning a huge party at the end of the month and searching for great nibbles that are appropriate for Halloween. I needed food that looked good, tasted better and easy to prepare. The most surprising bite of the event was the combination of black olives, oranges, and fresh mint. Not only did these have seasonal colors, but the flavors were also terrific and paired perfectly with Spanish wine.

Olives are an ancient food whose domain spans Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is not a surprise then that a significant range of global cuisines use olives. They encompass a full range of tastes in salty, sweet, bitter and sour for the perfect umami element in your dish. I learned that olives are generally classified by when they are harvested and how they are processed. There are many varieties of olives, but only a few types are actually eaten as a table olive instead of being pressed for olive oil.

I loved all the Spanish cheeses of the event, starting from Manchego to Iberico. Another tasty combination that paired well with Rioja wines were the big green olives tossed with marinated red peppers and stuffed with Cabrales cheese. Stuffed olives are one of the easiest hors d'oeuvres you can put together for your event. You can stuff them with cheese, pimientos, anchovies or really get creative with them. The Olives From Spain site has an extensive list of recipes from top chefs, most of them are easier than they look.

If you need a bit of escapism this week, grab a bottle of wine and a lovely board of cheeses, Jamon Iberico, and delectable olives from Spain to make a night of it. If you are coming to my next party, you know what will be in store!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Olives from Spain.

To learn more about Olives from Spain please visit their website at http://olivesfromspain.us/

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Cirque Du Soleil - Luzia in Toronto

Enjoying some time in Toronto and I was treated to the beautiful treat that is Cirque Du Soleil's newest production LUZIA. This production was inspired by Mexican Culture. The name Luzia is a combination of the Spanish words for light and rain.

This show opened with the central clown suspended from the top like he had a parachute mishap. He was surrounded by a field of traditional marigold flowers. When he landed, it transformed into a scene with a butterfly dancer with wings that spread out past the width of the stage. She runs while the stage rotates around with a metallic horse puppeteered by several performers behind her. The giant round disk is a constant symbol for many things like the Aztec calendar, sunset, moon or film reel.

Both set designer Eugenio Caballero and costume designer Giovanna Buzzi were careful not to appropriate the culture directly and settle for stereotypes. They changed up the color palettes, from monochrome to super bright. They brought in animal motifs. There was a giant Papel Picado cylinder acting as a patterned veil, playing with the scale of what is usually a delicate paper party decoration. My favorite costume was the diva's dress of white and red flowers. The designers used innovative tech, the almost 100 flowers open and close as she sings, attached to individual little motors. 
The show is the most beautiful performance art of intricate choreography and design. It is merely a bonus that the cast performs feats of physical wonders. There was one contortionist that was so flexible that he left the audience white-knuckled in their seats.
The other major theme and design element was the use of rain and water. The downpour was used for dramatic effect in several acts both for humor and stunning visual effect. With tricks of lighting, it looks like the tent was raining all sorts of symbols and narratives into the stage. There was a tiny pool in the middle in some acts to represent Mexican cenotes. The pool was used to very sexy effect with the long-haired, shirtless aerialist who swung his hair through the water as he dipped and soared through the air.

I have been a fan of Cirque du Soleil for over 20 years. I have attended a different production almost every year as a cherished family outing. Every year I think that yes, it will be gorgeous, but they can't possibly surprise me. Every single year I am wrong. The set design, production, and costumes of LUZIA blew me away and had left me with tons of inspiration.

More from Ms. Fabulous:

The Looks from Lady Gaga's Art Rave Ball

Exclusive Interview With Costume Designer Colleen Atwood

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NYC's Museum of Ice Cream

This is reason 5629 that New York City rocks during the summer. The Museum of Ice Cream in the Meatpacking District is a pop-up event. Creative strategist couple Maryellis Bunn and Manish Vora brainstormed their childhood fantasy of swimming in a pool of ice cream sprinkles and the event was born.

I wore my pastels to coordinate with the colors I assumed would be all over this "museum." The dress is from Byron Lars. The comfy retro sandals are from Cobb Hill Shoes. The event/retail space has plenty of selfie opportunities in the frozen treat theme. Every "exhibit" was interactive and mostly tasteable.

The entrance hosts a few art pieces like a deer trophy in sprinkles and mirrored scoop sculpture. You get your first taste of ice cream at the counter. The creation on my day was organic vanilla from Blue Hill topped with Fruit Loops cereal and marshmallows. (Different ice cream brand sponsors are featured at various times). Once you acclimate your palette to sugar, you enter the next sweet experiment.

Helium filled balloons of blown sugar are made in the next room. You can regress to childhood birthday parties and suck the helium through the balloon and yell out your favorite ice cream flavor in a squeaky voice. You must do this promptly though, as I attempted to whip out my phone with one hand, only to have the balloon burst in a sticky mess wrapped around my fingers, with no wet naps to be found.

After you pass a wall of ice cream cones and hanging light bulbs, you arrive at the "educational" portion of the tour. Random ice cream related facts are printed on the back wall where you are meant to choose a scoop to pick up simulated ice cream and drop it on a giant chalice to crowdsource the world's biggest sundae. There is no syrup or toppings, though, just a big gold cup with waxy scoops piled in. A game host who is there to stem the flow of guests leads an ice cream trivia round. You learn that while the ice cream was invented by the Chinese in 3000 BC, the ice cream scoop itself was not invented until 1897. This was because the frozen treat was originally made with milk and sugar, and did not create a texture that required scooping. It wasn't until the recipe changed to cream that a scoop was needed.

On the wall are small monitors that ran movie or television clips that featured ice cream. Next, you enter the chocolate room, the one disappointing exhibit. It consisted of brown curtains and projected screens of flowing chocolate. There is a sink with a weak spray of brown liquid that was supposed to be chocolate, but most suburban weddings have more impressive chocolate fountains. The one saving grace is the ample buckets of chocolate samples from Dove Chocolate.

The next room is the famous ice cream sprinkle pool. After removing your shoes, you can throw yourself into the basin filled with tiny plastic pieces that resemble ice cream sprinkles. There are inflatable toys and a hostess on hand to help take your picture. Chances are you will be clearing out sprinkles from your clothes and body for the rest of the night. I noticed the multi-colored sprinkles embellished all of Gansevoort Street on my way out.

The next room is a gallery of ice cream themed work. There is a taste experiment where an engineered "berry" of different chemicals is formed to trick your taste buds into perceiving other flavors. You chew on lemon slices that taste positively like candy and receive a full-size ice cream cone.

The last room is a playground. There is a phallic ice cream scoop see-saw there just to bait guys into watching women ride on it. There is a big swing made to look like an ice cream sandwich. More bait for women to strike sexy poses for Instagram. Yes, I took the bait.

How much fun is it to act like a big kid and live out your childhood fantasies? The Museum of Ice Cream may only be in town for a month, but the social memories will last a lifetime.

More from Ms. Fabulous:

Cointreau Shows You the Art of the Soiree

Chocolate & Cocktail Tasting in NYC

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Salvatore Ferragamo - Lo Splendore dei Mestieri

Now for a bit of Italian chic in my Paris fashion week trip. The Salvatore Ferragamo crew threw an intimate little soiree to celebrate the opening of their Avenue Montaigne boutique. They featured artisans for both handbags and shoes working on the current collection that was available in the store right now. The fashion included chic graphic prints in geometric patterns. A running motif throughout the shoes and handbags was an embellished bullseye in contrasting colors.

You could see the level of detail and meticulous craftsmanship of both the shoemaker and the handbag artisans. The carefully measured and cut their leather pieces and molded them to form. They were clearly proud of their work and were happy to show your their process.

They had a butcher carefully hand-shaving the tastiest prosciutto while servers doled out other Italian nibbles. Negronis, Prosecco, and Italian wine were served to the guests. There were a watercolor artist hand-painting famous landmarks of Italy for guests while another artist hand-cut profile portraits out of paper.

The scene outside was a crisscrossed red carpet area doubled as an outdoor lounge for guests or fans who wanted to bask in the beauty of the Paris Ferragamo boutique. I met some new French friends at the party who confirmed this was the best party of the night for Paris Fashion Week, and they had already attended many. Unlike American events, there were not too many selfie takers. An attendant at the photo booth had to convince guests to use it, where American parties, there would be a long line. Perhaps the French are so jaded from the constant beauty around them? Lucky people.

Thank you, Salvatore Ferragamo, for making this New Yorker feel welcome at your Avenue Montaigne boutique. I celebrated my time there by buying myself and my sister some new shoes as our souvenirs. (They will get much more use than an Eiffel Tower t-shirt). Felicitations on a wonderful store opening!

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Haute Couture: Guo Pei Fall Winter 2016/2017

Being in Paris for Haute Couture is the life goal of any fashion fan. I attended Chinese designer Guo Pei's stunning Haute Couture Fall 2016/2017 show at the Bourse de Commerce near The Louvre. Like NYFW, I embedded myself into the photographer's pit to shoot these works of art.

The inspiration for this season was the theme of "Encounter", dreams and karma. The central motif was her signature dragon. You could see this running through in the serpentine silhouettes. There were long, slinky embroidered gowns that were tailored tightly to the body and ended in an exaggerated train. The massive train is one detail that fashion fans Stateside recognize from this designer. Rihanna wore one of the biggest trains in red carpet history at the 2015 Met Gala in Guo Pei's yellow dress. 

The other silhouettes were equally dramatic. From the sharply built up shoulders to the innovative pleating details that emulate the folds of a Chinese paper lantern. There were ballgowns to elaborate; it would make Cinderella drool with envy. If you were a Disney princess, the glittering headpieces would make you proud. These pieces were sculptures unto themselves. These looked like crystals and feathers that grew up and out organically to frame the face. The intricate embroidery deserves close-up examination. It is incredibly detailed. Each sequin and jewel were hand-sewn. The gold dress at the top along took over 20 000 hours of manual labor to complete by artisans. There were a few dark, almost Gothic dresses with a bit of 1930's film noir looks contrasted with the sparkling gold dresses and white gowns. 

This was a historical show as Guo Pei is the first Chinese designer recognized by the Chambre Syndicale in Haute Couture. She was also named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people. Her gowns in the Met Gala exhibit, China Through the Looking Glass (one of the few by an actual Chinese designer) revolutionized how people viewed Chinese fashion as a whole, rather than a manufacturing hub.

As fantastical as many of the looks were, there were cocktail dresses and evening wear that was quite wearable for a special evening. Many of Guo Pei' fans were attired in her work in the audience. I absolutely expect more celebrities to wow in these looks at next year's red carpet. Bravo on a stunning show!

all photos by Mariana Leung

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Best Handbags from the Independent Handbag Designer Awards 2016

Congratulations to all of the talent who won an Independent Handbag Designer Awards last week. Competitors entered their work from countries all over the world. There has been a decade of indie designer labels and handbag designers that have built great brands or careers.

This Awards show may be less famous than the CFDA Awards a few weeks before, but of all of the fashion industry's events, I feel like this one is the most emotionally and creatively engaging for both the viewer and actual designers. More often than not, it's about what celebrity wore the designer. At the IHDA, designers are rewarded for their talent in craftsmanship, working with socially responsible initiatives or creating sustainable handbags.

Another moving aspect of this competition is how the designer have made the judges and audience a part of their personal journey in designer their collections. Creator Emily Blumenthal has personally been involved in reaching out to the designers across the world and learned from their stories. She often brings designers back in later years so fans like me can catch up on what the designers are doing in the years since then. I remember seeing a pregnant Blumenthal in the early years, and in 2016, her daughter is now in charge of handing out the trophies. It was an apt image representing how both her personal family and the handbag designer family has grown.

We at Ms. Fabulous asked Emily Blumenthal a few questions about her experience with the awards over the years:

Ms. Fabulous: After a decade of being Godmother to handbag designers around the world, what was your proudest moment from the past ten years?

Emily Blumenthal: There have been so many. We are just thrilled to have helped so many and discover talent that would have never been found.

Ms. F: How has the handbag industry changed since the first awards, for the better or worse?
E.B.: The market always works in cycles. It's definitely making a comeback now.

Ms. F: I love that you update us on what past winners are doing. Do you keep up relationships with designers over the years? Are people collaborating?

E.B.:  We always maintain relationships with our past finalists and winners. Their successes we celebrate with them.

Ms. F How has mentoring independent designers affected your work?
E.B.: We work with designers to ensure they make good decisions and keep their line on trend and not price themselves out of
the market.

Ms. F:  Do you have an all-time favorite handbag design?
E.B.: Can't pick favorites…

I ran into former winner Lorna Nixon (winner in multiple years). A Brit, who moved to New York now working for a larger brand, but also working on a collaboration with this year's Bernina Best Made Handbag, Stevan Saville. Other winners include Carolina Kuhnen Ecco as the Best Student Made Handbag, Jacqueline Suriano for the Most Socially Responsible Bag, Zeh Liu for the Mary Kay cosmetics bag, Cathleen Nicol for the Trina Turk Resort Bag, Adrian Furstenburg for the Guess Logo Handbag, Stacy Chan won Pantone's Wild Color Card Award, Yanique Moore won Audience Fan Favorite and finally, Tiffany and Lynn Lu for the Best Handbag in Overall Style and Design.

To all of the finalists and winners of the Independent Handbag Designer Awards 2016, bravo!

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Cointreau x Dannijo: The Art of the Soiree

Cedar Lake Events was home to a fantasy indoor garden Wednesday. Cointreau showcased a range of exotic cocktails to start the summer paired with scrumptious bites. The visual senses were seduced by the glittering jewelry from Dannijo, the brand founded by designers Danielle and Jodie Snyder.

Cointreau has been a staple in my bar for years as a key ingredient for my cosmopolitans and margaritas. I tasted several new cocktails that night that I will be adding to my repertoire.

Dannijo jewelry came out of the gate with spectacular statement pieces in 2008. The sisters self-taught themselves to make jewelry using their father's tools. Their label launched from a project to benefit Danielle's non-profit organization to create economic opportunities for women in Africa. Now their jewelry and handbags are sought after by top celebrities and "It" girls around the world.

Tin Can Studios in Brooklyn created the most beautiful decor for the party. There was a gigantic orange tree as the central point of the event space that seemed to bloom Cointreau and glittering jewelry from its branches. Other topiaries were dripping in jewels. The beautiful banquet table was set with wild-looking florals of intense color, stretching out from partial terrariums. The overall effect looked like an organic amethyst.

Platters of vegetables offered innovative flavors along the table. A rich smoked duck appetizer followed. The bar offered up salmon rilettes, pate, and cheese. Servers enticed with desserts like a chocolate tart that looked like tiny flower boxes of dirt and creamsicles that hung off bamboo spirals like tendrils of a vine. Here is a recipe for one of the most refreshing cocktails I sampled:

Cointreau French Lemonade:
2 oz. Cointreau
1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
1 oz. Cold-pressed Watermelon Juice
3 oz. Club Soda

Build all ingredients over ice in a highball glass. Stir gently. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and lemon wheel.

Thank you Cointreau and Dannijo for a decadent evening! A mix of opulent style, food and drink is a treat indeed.
(photos by Mariana Leung)

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NYWIFT Gala: Celebrating Designing Women in Film and Television

I was fortunate to attend the NYWIFT gala celebrating the achievements of women in film and television Monday. Costume designer Sarah Edwards, hair stylist Rose Chatterton and makeup artist Anita Gibson were honored for their work. Gender disparity is rampant throughout the entertainment industry. It was an empowering night to watch successful women encouraging others to support and mentor other creative women.

Sarah Edwards is the costume designer behind the recent Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows. Star Will Arnett was hilarious in character as "himself" in his speech about Edward's talent as he took an interest in anyone who makes him look. Her favorite look for the movie was the armor-like costume for Shredder (far right). She is also behind the costumes of Michael Clayton, Last Days of Disco, The Devil's Advocate among others. She also oversaw the looks for The Secret Life of Walter Mitty with Ben Stiller. She remarked the subtle difference in dressing Stiller in frumpier versions of the same outfit in his real life scenes versus the sharply tailored versions of his fantasy sequences to define the character.

Legendary actor Ray Liotta remarked on the talent of hairstylist honoree Rose Chatterton in his presentation. He noted that in the initial reviews of his show Shades of Blue, the press actually complimented his hair in their articles. That's memorable hair. In my chat with Chatterton, she noted the most challenging days are the long ones, chasing down talent in humidity and wind. She actually looks to her clients for discovering the best in hair products. They are often gifted new beauty items and then share their favorites with her. In addition to the show Shades of Blue, she created the retro looks for Factory Girl and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.

Anita Gibson was a powerhouse of energy at this event. Her favorite beauty products are to work with nails. She initially succeeded in film by excelling in films like Inside Man and Tyler Perry movies as an expert in working with diverse casts. That became more poignant when she worked on Kerry Washington playing Anita Hill in HBO's Confirmation. In the 1990s, cosmetics options for women of color were limited. Gibson reflected that in creating her look for Washington during the testimony scenes. She illustrated the stress Anita Hill's character endured in using waning lipstick and a lack of facial makeup as Hill's testimony wore on.

The entire creative team in costume, hair, and makeup for the tv program The Affair was honored at the NYWIFT awards. Star Maura Tierney presented the award to the enthusiastic ensemble. What is subtle, but fascinating about this show is that the same storylines are told from multiple characters perspectives. This requires major diligence and precise creative choices to style onscreen.

Costume, hair, and makeup are always admired when the project is a fantasy or time period. However, helping to build the characters for realistic situations and real life is more intricate with less appreciation. I noticed that all the women honored this night had that in common. The characters they styled had to be believable in all scenes, even if they were the same scenes shot differently.
NYWIFT, the New York Women in Film and Television is proof that there are many hard-working, successful creatives in the field. Entertainment may be a cutthroat industry, but talented people are happy to prop each other up.

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