Spring Trends with Max Studio's $1000 Online Shopping Spree!

Are you ready for some spring fashion and spring shopping? Leon Max is helping you out with a $1000 gift card giveaway to nab the latest spring trends for your closet. I have been a longtime fan of Max Studio’s Euro-chic style and fashion forward fabrications.

Inspired by 2015’s Color of the Year Marsala, I have already picked out some of the spring and summer Max Studio pieces I will be buying if I win this contest. I love all the spice colors of the cotton rayon cap sleeve sweater dress. The leather moto jacket has a feminine update and great for layering on top of dresses in cooler weather. I love a bohemian hat and paparazzi-repelling sunglasses. Those slashed leather stilettos? How HOT are those?

Of course, I am not the only shopper of Leon Max’s fashion collection. Zooey Deschanel and Olivia Wilde also count themselves as fans. I particularly love the body hugging knits and beaded details on the evening pieces. The Hollywood set I’m sure is lounging around in their floating maxi dresses.

The jet-setting look of the Max Studio fashion collection is so comprehensive because their design team spans Los Angeles, New York, and London. If you look closely at the styles, you can almost pick out exactly where each look was designed.

I also like their collections because I find that the styles are really well priced for the quality and construction of each style. I don’t always splurge, but I have Max Studio dresses from fifteen years ago that I still love.

Whether you are shopping on your own or letting Leon Max treat you, stay up to date on the latest new on the brand from the Max Studio Facebook page. Don’t forget to enter their $1000 gift card giveaway right on their site! You just need to enter your e-mail before Friday, March 27^th, 2015.

Presented by Leon Max and Max Studio.

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Stephan Caras Spring 2015

It was another runway for fans of mermaids or ice queens. The Stephan Caras fashion show at World Mastercard Fashion Week in Toronto was all about the shimmer. The dominant colors were clearly metallic silver, gold and cool white.

The Caras family, with Kyriako Caras now also designing, loves texture and opulent shine in their fabrics. The men also love to show a lot of leg, shoulders and cleavage (though rarely at the same time). Many of the silhouettes had a retro sexiness to them, like the flared leg jumpsuit, plunging neck disco dresses, portrait back collars or short short suits.

photos by David TW Leung

Stephan Caras Luminous Collection Spring 2015

Luminous is the right name for this runway. The models looked like they were ready to soar to the moon in some of the space-agey looks. Some looked like femme-bots ready to tell Austin Powers to behave. Maybe this is because Stephan Caras has lived around the world, from being born in Greece then making his way to fashion success via Australia. Now this family dresses the most stylish muses in Canada. Maybe when you conquer this planet you’re ready to head to the next…

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Haute Couture: Elsa Schiaparelli Spring 2015

Not-so-shocking pink was the backdrop to the Elsa Schiaparelli Haute Couture collection for spring 2015. The runway color was a reminder that the famous Italian's spirit was in the house, but the label is moving forward.

There was a distinct Middle Eastern aesthetic in the styling of the fashion show with the jeweled Fez has and draped shawls. Other than that, each ensemble had its own look. Signature Schiaparelli touches were handmade, three dimensional embellishments like the top of overlapping organza stars, large jeweled embroidery that looked like it was executed in a random pattern (but probably the artisan's personal constellation). In fact, each look seemed to have a personal story from the makers or designers with outfit names like "Seamstress in Love" "Battle of Pins" or "Atelier Games". I would love to watch the behind-the-scenes video on the events that inspired that.

There were gorgeous examples of sculptured millinery which I'm sure will be a hit with the Brits. The atelier's own padlock hardware marked the handbags. Jewelry had a similar collaged look with fused metal and jewels. Tailoring was a prominent feature of this collection, but the label took great care to make it look ultra feminine.

It's lovely to see this label back on the Haute Couture runways. I would like to think Elsa Schiaparelli is looking down from her atelier in the sky and smiling.
photos provided by Schiaparelli

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Haute Couture: Armani Prive Spring Summer 2015

I’m calling the spring 2015 Armani Prive collection of Haute Couture the Straw and Hay show. I know I can clearly see that the big poles on the runway are a hyper modern representation of bamboo. I can see that bamboo is a running motif along with Asian details like wide obi belts.

The super chill palettes of deep navy, grey and herbal green are elegant in that expected Armani way. It is the shiny fabrics, loopy fringe, stiff reedy fringe that I didn’t expect. As sophisticated an image as Giorgio Armani has cultivated, the man does have a sense of humor. I like that he mixed some contemporary, almost nutty novelty pieces with his uber sleek socialite bait. This is a man who played an Italian Prime Minister on Saturday Night Live and then told the host “nice suit” after all. He is a man who was not offended when a snarky reporter asked “Why always beige?”.

Giorgio Armani often likes to include botanical patterns of some sort, so an exotic bamboo leaf was this season’s winner. Instead of literal kimono sleeves or wraps that many other designers have done, the evening gowns had interesting pleats or asymmetrical hems. In fact, the fuller silhouettes on the catwalk took its muse more from a Korean Jaegori than what most people think is a kimono.

With all the wide obi belts on the runway this year, I’m wondering how many buckle makers have filed for bankruptcy. The models hair was slicked, and parted down the middle in a severe style. Some models wore huge statement earrings or none at all.

The Armani Prive Haute Couture collection was the gorgeous Giorgio Armani show you wanted it to be with some fun surprises!

Photos from FirstView/FashionWeekDaily

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BCBG Max Azria Spring 2015

Spring on the BCBG runway had an Eastern, Boho vibe. There were variations of kimono silhouettes. The color palette was pale, pastel, with lots of white, more white, pink and seafoam.

Lantern sleeves and wide obi belts with trapunto stitching were prominent details. The few prints were truly pretty. They had a layered look that at first looked like an abstract Japanese floral, but were actually inspired by a color reform over-dying technique Lubov Azria observed at a home décor boutique. There were also delicate embroidered details using two different sized pearlized sequins or intricate threadwork. I can see these styles being adapted into a casual beach wedding.

The easy garment silhouettes are very West Coast. Either that, or their fitting team just wanted to make sure that every style could fit everyone (or they don’t know how to fit a garment and playing it safe). The shapeless garments were a trick BCBG as used in past season, so it must be working for them. The exception to that was the quilted renditions of the current moto jacket trend but executed in a super feminine way.

photos by Mariana Leung

BCBG finally moved past the envelope clutch handbag shape they were sending down the runway for several seasons in a row. Instead, they have a cute round handbag similar to a minaudiere with a long over shoulder strap or a large retro styled hobo bag.

The models hair was long, flowing and natural. The makeup was natural with a bit of sun-kissed bronzer. 

If you are looking forward to a California by way of Asia look for spring, the BCBG Max Azria collection for spring 2015 is it.

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Michael Costello Art Hearts Spring 2015

Aliens on the runway! That was my first impression of former Project Runway contestant Michael Costello’s fashion show. His collection at the Art Hearts Spring 2015 presentation at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week sent mixed signals.

The fabulous costumed aliens (I think) that flanked the runway for the models made me think that this would be an avant-garde, artistic show. The looks that came down the catwalk though, were sexy, dark, evening wear pieces that were daring, but not particularly forward. The deep browns, black, blue along with lots of sheer lace and metallic have a sultry look to match the models. Many of the body hugging silhouettes with revealed leg, fishtail hem or cut-outs are just screaming out for a Kardashian sister to wear them. Costello’s West Coast base also makes him primed to serve many a red carpet in the upcoming awards season.

Less successful were the few pieces of lace bottoms. Very sheer lace bottoms with a triangle patch at the crotch? These are the cringe-worthy items that women shake their head at and only a male would design.

Other spacey touches included spiked and studded masks that many of the models wore. I was unclear if this was part of the collection, a separate accessories brand or meant to convey a character? Also, those aliens were distracting because they were so cool, they took focus away from what otherwise was a great ‘diva’ collection.

Aside from these minor rookie mistakes, I am looking forward to what else Michael Costello Couture has in store for on this planet or the next.

photos by Mariana Leung

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#NYFW: Naeem Khan Spring 2015

Casual royals? Naeem Khan ' s spring 2015 collection was beautiful,  ornate as usual. However, he also seemed to be tapping into the sporty chic direction many other designers are going for in his own way.

The show started off with shorter dresses, tops that resembled a tshirt and tunic. This is Naeem Khan though, so the deceptively simple pieces were elaborately embellished with gorgeous embroidery. Lots of beads and lots of jewels encrusted 'casual' garments. I guess this is meant for the celebrity or socialite who walks red carpets in daytime?

Then there were the show stopping spring ballgowns. Long, sweeping silk gowns that looked like they were masterfully painted with blooming flowers. Funny how these formal silhouettes did not have embellishments beyond the print.

The color palette was graphic back and white, bold tropical colors or monochromatic metallic when it came to the embroidery.  The closer you look at the beadwork or threadwork, the more intricate it seems. 

The models were styled very simply. Loose, natural hair and makeup so the clothing is the star. The Naeem Khan spring 2015 collection is definitely one of art that needs to be appreciated in person!

Photos by Mariana Leung

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#NYFW Georgine Ratelband Spring 2015

It's getting cold  here in New York. I am dreaming of a luxurious resort to spend the frigid months and Georgine Ratelband just returned from one. Her Spring 2015 collection for New York Fashion week was inspired by her trip to Thailand’s posh island of Koh Samui.

Retro jetsetters like Loulou de la Falaise and Bianca Jagger also served as muses for the 1970s global glam. The collection is definitely not for the office. There are a lot of luxe lounge wear with shimmering fabrics that take socialites from beach to the ultra-exclusive nightspot. Think elegant flowing pants and caftans, cropped tops and metallic swimwear.

 Big floppy wide brimmed hats and silk turbans evoked the glamorous movie stars of decades past. My favorite accessory was the surfboard shaped handbags attached with a chic bracelet cuff like a cheeky nod to surfer’s ankle straps. These looks may have been meant for the beach, but don’t look for flip flops on this runway. Every model wore slim, strappy heels.

Georgine is a very young brand. The designer only graduated from Milan’s Istituto Europeo di Design in 2011. Her label was launched when a luxury retailer in Antwerp purchased her thesis collection. The collection quickly gained a following promoting a luxury aesthetic that we would all love to partake…
photos by Mariana Leung

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Aritizia Spring 2015

The day after Christmas in Canada is for Boxing Day Sales. I was at a mall today before the start of a movie and watched one of Canada’s best clothing chain exports being pillaged for its discounts. Thankfully, my position as a blogger of fashion allowed me to preview the upcoming Artizia spring 2015 collection in a civilized manner in their Soho New York location.

The reasonably priced, chic sportswear chain offered up classic trench coat variations in their outerwear. A classic tan, cream and navy color palette dominated their office-friendly fashion looks. While I love popping into this store to grab some basics with a twist, the most exciting thing about this presentation was the handbag collections.

There were the sophisticated leather pieces in over-sized clutch shapes or huge carryall leather totes. The more contemporary collection had brighter colors with styling details that reminded me of emojis.

Like many big clothing brands, Aritzia has launched a fashion forward lounge/athletic wear collection to accompany their main line. This group also mixed in some denim in easy, sporty silhouettes that set them apart from the other brands. The looks also had more of a 1950s vibe to them with short, flirty skirts and pastel colors mixed in with the traditional palette.

Like Club Monaco and Joe Fresh before it, I have watched many Canadian chains cross the border and make a big splash. Aritzia so far has dipped their toes into the water and now waiting for other fashion fans to make the plunge.

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Old Navy Takes Us On A RoadTrip: Spring 2015

Is there a better way to show that your brand is a favorite all across American than taking it on a road trip?  That was the theme of Old Navy’s Spring 2015 event last night.  The spring collections were grouped into destinations by climate with travel-friendly ensembles.

Food stands were set up along the path like a roadside snack stop, serving up spiked lemonade, pies, gourmet burgers and hot dogs along with rum drizzled milkshakes.  You could snap a photo in front of iconic American landscapes and a team was on hand to dish out road trip itineraries. 

The first delivery had primary, nautical colors like red, yellow, khaki, navy and white.  As “spring” is still pretty chilly when it hits the stores, there were cotton peacoats and boots.  For the second delivery, the color palette was denim-focused. The collection had a lot of blue shades with printed florals and stripes.  It was a dressed up denim, with dresses and statement necklaces to upgrade the look.

Things warmed up in the third delivery.  Brighter colors like coral popped into tropical florals and t-shirt dresses.  Sandals and sneakers were paired with fun, light rompers.

It was a treat to make my own trail mix, I think I have to try that at my next brunch.  I remember doing a lot of road trips as a child.  They were never this stylish or this tasty.  My family might have actually made it to Disney World if they had!

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#WMCFW: Christopher Bates Spring 2015 Menswear

I love the Christopher Bates Menswear show at Toronto Fashion Week.  His runway is always a treat to the ladies (or men) with a debonair line up of gorgeous gentlemen in fantasy characters (ok I am projecting). 

Christopher Bates always produces a sophisticated menswear collection with roots in Italian tailoring, but approachable to the most basic of fashion-shy males.  For spring 2015, his World Mastercard Fashion Week collection was inspired by the movie The English Patient.  You see the influence in the posh safari styling, tailored shorts, with some retro formal wear looks.   Even though the theme is recognized, each ensemble is wearable by most men.  There aren’t any gimmicky catwalk pieces, just stylish clothes to suit a projected lifestyle.

The savviness of Christopher Bates is that every model is styled to appeal to an archetype to tickle your fancy.  The rugged explorer, the adventurer with trendy beard, urban moto-riding vagabond and the posh gent are all there to accommodate your fantasy.  It’s a perfect marketing move where the designer understands that men ultimately dress to attract and please a mate, therefore he presents his collection as such.

I don’t wish to disrespect the designer’s success or talent, but it doesn't hurt that the handsome Bates is the embodiment of his brand.  How hot would it be to live in this world?

photos by David TW Leung

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Pamella Roland Spring 2015

Designer Pamella Roland drew inspiration for her Spring/Summer 2015 collection from her travels to Japan. The designer captured the spirit of Zen Gardens of Kyoto and the beauty of Cherry Blossom trees in bloom.

The sleek and clean silhouettes in Roland's spring 2015 collection were the perfect canvas to showcase the exquisite fabrics and intricate details. Models were styled with simple ponytails and hints of red and pink make-up that embodied the allure and mystique of the Geisha.  

The collection opened with neutral separates for day in cream, ivory, and taupe. Special occasion cocktail dresses and evening gowns in luxurious fabrics like organza, silk georgette, and lace dominated the runway.  Printed fabrics and beaded accents with Cherry Blossoms and Bonsai were recurring motifs throughout the collection.  

photos by Mariana Leung

My favorite looks of this show were the blue lace dress with lacquered feather waist detail.  There was the ivory and Lilac floral organza gown with corded bands across the bodice.  There was beautiful blush lace long sleeve gown and then ivory brushstroke chiffon bridal gown.

The verdict? Pamella Roland delivered a stunning & elegant collection designed for women of all ages...especially for those of us with a busy social calendar!

xo,

Elaine Fioravanti of Best Dressed Ginger

Guest Blogging for MsFabulous.com

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Nicole Miller Spring 2015

Is it time for a vacation? Nicole Miller’s spring 2015 collection at NY Fashion Week gave us all an escape to a tropical fantasy.  The backdrop was full of palm trees.  The runway itself was a black and white geometric print that echoed the graphic patterns of the collection.

Mixed prints were clearly the main theme of the collection.  Pineapples, bananas, botanical motifs brought out an island atmosphere with colors of bright yellow, red, orange, blue and green.  Meanwhile, black and white was presented in bold stripes of different scales, waves and palm trees.  The striking patterns were often paired with a sheer insert on dresses or tops.

There were short shorts and slim cigarette pants.  However, the most popular silhouettes were knee length skirts that were fitted, flirty or full, as a separate or a dress.   There were a few cotton blazers in either white solid cotton or one of the floral prints.

Intricate embellishments of the same tropical motifs were embroidered onto more elegant pieces.  Large-scale pineapples were knit into a complex intarsia placement on the body. 

Handbags were in the form of old-school travel suitcases, complete with destination stickers.  Fruity charm jewelry mirrored the prints and gave a whimsical vibe.  Shoes were custom matched to the clothing with the same tropical or black and white prints.  They were chunky heeled sandals with wide straps.  The shoes that happened to be solid leather were actually embossed with the running pineapple motif. 

My guess is that Nicole Miller’s message for spring 2015 is to welcome them to paradise…

photos by Mariana Leung

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Cynthia Rowley's Sporty Spring 2015

Designer, Cynthia Rowley, presented her Spring/Summer 2015 Collection at NY Fashion Week to a packed house. A who's who of guests were in attendance to see the new collection including second-generation fashion royalty China Chow, and ex-reality TV star turned designer, Whitney Port.

Drawing inspiration from a variety of fashion eras, spanning from the sixties to the eighties, Rowley put her signature on every piece. Chic and sporty tanks, leggings, and shorts were perfect for casual days in the city or at the beach. Modern crop tops, ankle length pants, A-line dresses, and chic swimwear offered something for everyone.

Rowley's collection included feminine & flirty looks, in lace and applique fabrics, for the daytime. Vintage inspired tunic & pant sets resembled sets worn by wealthy women on summer holiday in the sixties and seventies. But, the stars of the show were the large-scale "Pucci-esque" print dresses and gowns perfect for cocktails in the city or warm weather gala's in the Hamptons. The collection started with a color palette of black, cream, gold, and red that to quickly moved into a pastel palette of baby pink and blue, which complimented the oversized prints and eyelet fabrics.

My favorite looks were the bright red floral lace sleeveless shift dress,  the long print A-line maxi dress and the tunic and matching pant suit in cream, black, and gold print.

Cynthia Rowley's show was by far one of my personal favorites during #NYFW.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the entire collection.  Bravo Cynthia!!

xo, Elaine Fioravanti of Best Dressed Ginger, Guest Blogging and photos for MsFabulous.com

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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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Badgley Mischka's Silver Anniversary - Spring 2015

A quarter century together!  Designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka may have tied the knot last year but their life and label have been official for 25 years.   My former draping teacher at Parsons had fond memories of watching the two of them work together at a corner table in the classroom in the years before I attended the school myself.

The spring 2015 collection of Badgley Mischka was a parade of elegant day looks and dream gowns.  Fluid silk pants and flirty skirts were paired with tweed jackets with motorcycle styling or luxe cardigans for daytime.  Evening wear had a gorgeous palette of light purple, pale blue, different shades of grey and caramel. 

Many of the bodices or skirts were lavishly embellished with jewels, moonstones and satin flowers.  The embroidery was layered on top of lace and tulle.  Rich beading was also used to accent the key print of an elaborate cherry blossom pattern.

Accessories were almost as impressive.  There was a very sophisticated backpack that upgrades the entire category.  There was a giant jeweled bow on a shoulder.  Big clear Lucite cuff bracelets were made luxurious with shining stones.  Small box clutch handbags had a subtle, holographic finish and decorated with rhinestone motifs.  Shoes had delicate straps, often two-toned with python finish leather and embellished with jewels or shiny hardware. 

The show’s finale included a shower of balloons and a surprise appearance of Naomi Campbell who walked in Badgley Mischka’s first runway show.  Now I can’t wait to see their golden anniversary show!

photos by Mariana Leung

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Angel Sanchez Spring 2015

Angel Sanchez is best known for his knock- out evening dresses and beautiful bridal gown collections.  His collection was light and colorful, filled with stylish dresses and separates perfect for day to evening social occasions and balmy summer nights. 

The inspiration and color palette of the collection was light and the colors in the sky. Light blue, pink, yellow, and white were the dominant colors in the collection, along with exotic floral prints. Sanchez chose a gorgeous double-faced canvas in pink that resembled Radiant Orchid, the 2014 color of the year from Pantone. Bright yellow piping on seams and unusual closures accentuated solid color garments. Unexpected cutouts, piping, and embroidery added texture and versatility to the garments and the collection.

With so many standouts in this collection, I found it challenging to choose my favorites. There was the three piece outfit of pink Faille coat, bandeau top, and double faced canvas shorts. I loved the crepe gown, in a bright citron color, with cutouts and high front slits. One of Sanchez's signature evening gowns; an embroidered organza gown with piping in citron yellow was stunning.

photos by Mariana Leung

There was a lot of wearable tech at NY Fashion Week this season, with technology disguised in accessories.  At this show, the fashion accessories looked like tech components.  The bright neon citron color was seen in sculptured necklaces and bracelet cuffs.  The tech fabric of neoprene was also integrated into more classically tailored evening wear.

Angel Sanchez does it again and delivers a wearable collection of feminine & elegant clothes...perfect for the modern woman.

Gracias por la increíble colección de Sr. Sanchez!

xo,

Elaine Fioravanti of Best Dressed Ginger

Reporting for Ms. FABulous.

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#NYFW: Vivienne Tam Spring 2015 & the Forbidden City

Vivienne Tam is a master in merging traditional Chinese themes with contemporary techniques.  For spring 2015, the designer took her inspiration from China’s Forbidden City. 

Landscapes and nature patterns like waves and clouds were printed onto blouses or handbags.  Birds, flowers and trees were embroidered onto athletic fabrics like power mesh.  Printed neoprene was cut and appliqued onto other fabrics in a sports meets high fashion mix.  These motifs are found in historical artwork and handicrafts in China and treasures from inside the Forbidden City.  Her color palette was similar to her collections of the past. She used her signature red, black and ivory.  There was a pretty ceramic blue and bits of citrus yellow and purple in prints.

The big trend in many collections this season is wearable tech.  Vivienne Tam offered handbags that charged your phone when you put it inside.  Unlike many of the clunky pieces that many tech companies produced, the accessories on this runway were so stylish, I would be happy to buy them on design alone with the functionality being a big bonus.

The most popular jewelry was a variation on the knotted beaded friendship bracelet.  Unfortunately, my least favorite part of the catwalk was the footwear.  Normally, I would be enthusiastic about seeing a designer promote practical, comfortable footwear, but the socks and flat sandals the models wore looked like a bad tourist cliché.  Paired with the sleek, beautifully rendered pieces on the body above, it just did not make sense.  Was this a nod to the casual attire of Silicon Valley?  Sure, wearing comfy shoes should be a goal in real life, but on the New York Fashion Week runway, I realized I would prefer to see some nice heels on the models that are only spending 90 seconds in them.  Even the most professional of models, wearing socks and flat, duck-like sandals affects how they walk and the overall impression on the runway. 

With Vivienne Tam’s tongue-in-cheek design process, I think the models were lucky their feet were not bound instead.

photos by Mariana Leung

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