Move over Carrie Bradshaw, one of Manolo Blahnik's biggest admirers turns out to be Queen Elizabeth II. In the name of Her Royal Majesty, British Culture Secretary James Purnell, bestowed the title of Commander of the British Empire on the man who continues to keep the shoe fetish alive.
"Manolo Blahnik is one of only a handful of designers whose name is synonymous with their product," Purnell said of the 65-year-old footwear king.
I can't imagine the Queen in stilettos but then again maybe style has no age.
OK! Magazine was the first to announce the latest celebrity baby-bumb news, is Posh having her fourth child?
The magazine claims that Posh, a.k.a Victoria Beckham, was spotted buying girl stuff at a store (didn't Mel B have a little girl not long ago?) and also quotes an unnamed (which tends to mean non-existent) source that claims she's been secretly meeting with interior designers to create a new nursery.
To be honest this news caught my attention because I really wanted to see pictures of the bone-thin celeb looking more normal, which usually sparks baby gossip in Hollywood. Nothing yet...
Just when we thought fashion was for the super-young twiggy-likes, Karl Lagerfeld proves us half wrong with his decision to use 37 year-old Claudia Schiffer once again. The supermodel spent 5 years as the face of the famous fashion house 20 years ago.
Schiffer originally left because the Uber-Designer began to find her too wholesome as his tastes turned to heroin chic. If only she had gained 80 pounds, now that would be something...
Southwest Airlines, once known for under-dressing its flight attendants, is being sued for booting an 'under-dressed' passenger. The passenger, Kyla Ebbert was asked to leave by a flight attendant. She refused.
Kyla was just an innocent Hooters waitress trying to get from San Diego to Tuscon who was dressed in (as shown in the video) a tight white shirt and short denim skirt.
ABC says, "Kyla Ebbert, a blond, shapely 23-year-old San Diego coed who also works shifts at a Hooters restaurant, boarded the flight to Tucson, Ariz., on a one-day round-trip visit to an Arizona doctor's appointment. She had settled into her seat when a flight attendant confronted her about what was later described by the airline as 'revealing attire.'"
Maybe they were really just trying to protect her from the airplane seat germs...
Venice Film Festival winner Jia Zhang-Ke is back with a a documentary on China's burgeoning fashion industry, documenting everything from the destitute sweatshop factories to the glamorous runways in Paris. The film, "Useless", documents the effect that the fashion industry has left on China, such as small-time tailors having to close shop to earn wages by working in the mines because clothing factories have put them out of business. Informative, and about the fashion industry? My only complaint is that I don't live in one of the 10 Chinese cities it is being shown in.
CBS is bringing sexy back, as the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show will be back on prime time. Though Gisele Bündchen will be gone, the show will definitely bring the heat back into television.
It will show December 4th at 10pm, hopefully late enough for the little kids to go to bed.
You Don't Need to Sing to Look Like an American Idol
"American Idol", the hit singing reality show, will be producing a line of clothing directed at girls and tweens. The design of the denim-focused brand will be 'rock n roll", and will be marketed towards all of those prepubescent girls who stand outside in the pouring rain, holding up fan signs for their favorite 'Idol'.
It's a smart move on the company's part, taking advantage of commercial trends. On the other hand, since when did "American Idol" lyrics branded on a pant leg become "rock n roll"?
While on a tour of Peru this Friday, Cameron Diaz, star of "Shrek" has accidentally offended the locals who had experienced decades of abuse and violence from Maoist guerilla insurgents.
Diaz carried a messenger bag with the slogan, "Serve the People" printed in Chinese on the flap, which was a popular political slogan of the Communist Leader Mao. While in some countries these bags are regarded as stylish and harmless, Peruvians were highly offended by her choice of accessories.
In addition to being offensive (though we know she didn't mean it), why carry an olive green messenger bag in the first place?
Victoria Beckham, former Spice Girl and a celebrity so well-known that even my high school chemistry professor despises her, debuted her designer denim line in New York.
The label, dVb, sells for around $250 a pair, and obviously caters to only those who can afford Beckham's expensive taste. The jeans have a large star stitched on the back, and she was well-received by her fans and the media.
One 18 year old fan says, "During Middle School I became the ugly duckling and I didn't have many friends and then I started following Victoria and her fashion tips and people starting telling me I was beautiful. I have her to thank for that."
Okay, so maybe Beckham won't be the next Vera Wang, but with Spice Girls fans like this, sales might do fine!
In an age where the Olsen twins are fashion designers, Forever 21 creates knock-offs of European designers, and Target sells designs from the top fashion designers, fashion has become more of a business than it ever has been.
However, designers aren't too concerned about the mass production of fashion and the deterioration of the designer label. For celebrities clients, having an expensive one-of-a-kind dress is still the ideal. For the rest of us however, the Target collections are much more affordable.
Open up the latest editions of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, or Glamour, and amidst the clothing spreads and flashy advertisements from cosmetic companies, you might just find a colorful cigarette advertisement. While in the United States, cigarette advertising is banned from television, radio, and billboards, they're still allowed to be in print.
Recently, over 8000 readers protested against the cigarette ads in Vogue magazine, for issues such as influencing teenage girls to smoke. After all, what is a better proponent for smoking other than the top fashion magazine in the country?
The new media frenzy of YouTube and other online video sites has allowed the fashion industry to tap into the resource of free advertising. Not only does this help wtih budget cuts but also serves the purpose of reaching the younger masses.
"Brands ranging from Gap to Victoria's Secret, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Nike and Adidas are increasingly finding a home on YouTube, MySpace and similar sites, where their videos, commercials, behind-the-scenes footage and fashion shows are posted for free. These sites have the potential to transform the way fashion brands reach their current and future customers since hundreds of thousands of people can view a single spot — with humorous ones scoring the most hits.
TV, magazines, radio dominate the existing advertising world, but online advertisements on sites like YouTube are the way of the future. Source: [Link]
As Dior cruises the seas, Chanel is strutting it in the skies. "Two Challenger 601 jets pulled up to Hangar 8 at Santa Monica Airport on Friday night, the doors popped open, and the models stepped out in a tour de force show that only Chanel could have pulled off."
The stage was like an arrival lounge, with an arrival monitor announcing Karl Lagerfield's landing in Los Angeles. The designs were based on a 'private travel theme' which according to Lagerfield should be divine.
Demi Moore, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Claudia Schiffer, Victoria Beckham, Jessica Alba and Lindsay Lohan were some of the 500 guests at the air-travel inspired show. Source: [Link]
The show began to the sounds of Crosby, Stills and Nash's Marrakesh Express, continued with flowing pink champagne and even had a couple of models trip due to the 'towering steel toothpicks'. But this latest collection for the Parisian fashion house is a testament to the history and visual culture of John Galliano.
Like last year, the occassion was staged in New York with a sunset backdrop of the Twin Towers site and the pink glow of New Jersey. Galliano acclaimed for his 10 years at the luxury fashion house celebrates this collection with a 60s theme full of rosettes, pouted lips, jeweled ankle strap stilettos.
"A lime green satin trapeze coat embroidered with paisley paired with matching Capri pants, over sized shocking pink sunbonnet and jeweled pearl choker and jeweled sandals set the tone for a collection that consisted of sumptuous fabrics in acid trip colors, gauzy dashiki-like gowns, animal prints, maxi coats, '50s and '60s-inspired plastic sunglasses and ostrich plumes. Swinging circle skirts, from mid-calf to mini added an Elizabeth Taylor element to the offerings."
Few of the celebrities that graced the momentous event were spokeswoman for Dior Perfume Charlize Theron along with Penelope Cruz, Dita Von Teese, Kylie Minogue and Anna Wintour who all offered praise and admiration for the collection.
Dior has forever been a leader in fashion and symbol of luxury ever since 1947, so it is no surprise that Galliano continues the tradition 60 years later!
Twenty8twelve is the newest celebrity clothing line from the two famous Brit Miller Sisters. Sienna Miller, who has long been known for setting the trends with her bohemian inspired chic looks, when paired with sister Savannah, who is a trained graduate of Central Saint Martins, seem to make the ideal pair for a brand new fashion line.
The collection is set to debut in August and "includes pieces such as sharply tailored wool jackets and trousers, Empire line silk smock dresses, skinny jeans and silk and jersey tops. It will retail from about $75 for a silk jersey tank to $650 for a leather jacket."
Beyonce Knowles has been chosen to be the new face for Giorgio Armani's new perfume 'Emporio Armani Diamonds'. The new fragrance is due to release this fall and besides being part of the print and television advertisements, Knowles will lend her voice to the perfume's marketing scheme.
Knowles and Armani have long been acquainted, "in addition to having attended his fashion shows and wearing his gowns on a multitude of red carpets, the multitalented personality lent her support to the Emporio Armani RED launch initiative to fight the global AIDS epidemic". Source:[Link]
For more on Isabella Blow, read the entire article at The New York Times.
Isabella Blow, a British fashion editor, aristocrat and aesthete whose gift for identifying and promoting new talent was occasionally overshadowed by her own Surrealist plumage, died yesterday in Gloucestershire, England. She was 48.
Her death, at a hospital, was reported by Geordie Greig, the editor in chief of Tatler, the British magazine where Ms. Blow was fashion director. No cause was given.
Among Ms. Blow’s many discoveries were the designers Alexander McQueen (she purchased his entire first collection), the Dior designer John Galliano and Jun Takahashi, the eccentric creator behind the label Undercover.
She was credited with discovering the models Stella Tennant and Sophie Dahl, whom she once characterized as a “blowup doll with brains.” And though “muse” may be a hackneyed term, it well served Ms. Blow’s lifelong relationship to the global guild of hatters, whom she challenged constantly to design something too mad for her to wear.
Both the couture milliners Stephen Jones and Philip Treacy, a baker’s son whose fashion confections are favored by the British royals, were also Ms. Blow’s finds.
“Isabella was this amazing bright light in a world of increasingly corporate culture,” said Anna Wintour, the Vogue editor, who hired Ms. Blow in the early 1980s to work as her assistant at British Vogue.
Ms. Blow became renowned for her sartorial daring. On a given day at the office, Ms. Wintour said, Ms. Blow might turn up dressed as a Greek goddess, Joan of Arc or an Indian maharani. During the ready-to-wear shows in New York, Milan and Paris, she might change clothes as often as seven times a day. She delighted in flouting convention and personal comfort, appearing in one-legged trouser suits, outfits of chain mail or a Japanese designer’s version of a burqa.
“She was aristocratic, in the old bohemian sense of anything is possible, yet she could talk about fashion with complete rigor in terms of silhouette, shape and historical context,” said Mr. Greig, the editor of Tatler. “She was an academic with a punk rocker’s anarchic sense.”
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York was where all the celebrities were Monday night. This year was a tribute to Paul Poiret and his designs as the "King of Fashion. While Lindsay Lohan rocked her black revealing dress, which left little to the imagination, other celebrities like Kristen Dunst and Naomi Campbell werent looking so hot. The gala is one of the most glamorous events that has celebs dressing to compete.
From vivid pinks, cobalt blues and deep purples to virginal whites the event was an array of colors in honour of Poiret. Jessica Simpson, John Mayer, Christina Ricci, Mischa Barton, Cameron Diaz, Lucy Lui, Jennifer Garner were some of the many stars that made the event a success. But this is just the beginning of this summer's red carpet events, so stay tuned for the hits and misses to come!
The first thing I think about when I pass by the Escada store in my area is reading through a Spanish catalog and having my mid-aged Spanish teacher remark, "Oh, is that an Escada catalog? I love Escada!"
Thus, I began to identify the brand with the refined and older group of women. Yet, the newly revamped Beverley Hills store opened with plenty of Hollywood's young starlets attending. With Sophia Bush and Gabrielle Union selecting dresses in this brightly colored store, Escada is no longer holding onto tradition.
As if up-and-coming Hollywood starlets aren't taking over everything already.
Forget about those aviator sunglasses...the newest trend is glasses! At first I thought all the models were losing their eyesight but there's something really sexy about being smart, isn't there?
Lacoste and Tommy Hilfiger have already picked up on this trend, and must I say...I almost want to pick up a classic novel and read it, as long as I have my glasses on.
Guilty about buying that seventh Gucci purse when you already have six sitting in your closet? Well, now you can buy environmentally-friendly designer clothes and stay stylish!
Designers such as Stella McCartney, Diesel, and Versace are using fabrics created from sustainable materials such as bamboo and corn. These textiles have the strength of traditional materials, but are much more versatile.
Forget about those hemp necklaces and organic sweatpants... you don't need to sacrifice high fashion!
Supermodel and style icon Kate Moss has released a collection of her own for the British chain store, Topshop. Now, stylish fans can wear styles inspired by Moss's own vintage and eclectic pieces.
For us North Americans though... we can only dream.
Gisele Bundchen, 26, has left Victoria's Secret. As one of Victoria's Secret's most famous supermodels to grace the angel wings, it will be extremely devastating to both men and women across the globe.
Her long legs and amazing abs are a legend among the Victoria's Secret Angels; who can measure up?
During the 1970s, the German Red Army considered kidnapping the fashion designer, Karl Lagerfeld. Lagerfeld, who came from a wealthy family and was also a formidable figure in the fashion world, would have been a great candidate for ransom (don't get ideas there!).
Thankfully they didn't, for who knows what the fashion world would be like now without Karl Lagerfeld?
After seasons of modesty and long Edwardian-style flowing dresses, showing off your gams is back in style!
Great for some of you lucky femme fatales with gorgeous legs, but not so great for those of us who'd rather cover in up in layers of tulle and pretend we've got great thighs and calves underneath.
After all, I'm just too modest to show off my great legs in these short shorts and miniskirts. Of course, that's why.
Jewelry house Mikimoto has teamed up with fashion designer Yojhi Yamamoto to design a 20-piece collection based around Mikimoto's well known specialty, the pearl.
This is the first time that Mikimoto has collaborated with another fashion designer, but many other designers such as Vera Wang have already worked with Mikimoto to design their own pearl jewelry.
Nowadays, working together seems to be the norm. With designers working with mass retailers such as Target and Nine West to create clothing that are accessible to the public, it only seems logical that the same designers are creating their own jewelry too.
As a complete Disney Princess fanatic and romantic, I am completely obsessed with Disney's new couture line of wedding gowns, based off of each of the Disney Princesses.
Now along with Mickey Mouse as my best man and a pumpkin carriage to take me to the castle, my childhood (and current...) fantasy will be complete.
Few men seem to be fantasying about having sex with Kate Moss. For the first time in a decade Moss will not make the FHM annual list of the top 100 sexiest women in the world. Last year she managed to rank only 87th. FHM spokesman Dan Cooper was quoted as saying: "She hasn't looked great as of late .... I think the average guy on the street prefers someone that's a little more womanly." Although the final vote has not been tallied glamour model Keeley Hazell is expected to top the list - and yet somehow I can't see her becoming a Karl Lagerfeld favorite as his "curvy" alternative.
Unlike Brazil or Italy, France will not ban too skinny models from the catwalk. Instead, a voluntary charter will be introduced to raise awareness of the health risks of being too thin. France claims that its restrictions are tough enough, and will not introduce new measures.
However, there are still concerns left in the Paris fashion industry. For example, many Parisian fashion designers prefer their models to be as skinny as possible, and thus these girls are forced to maintain the lowest weight that they can.
'Can' and 'should' are two very different things. While these models can maintain an emaciated figure...should they for the sake of their health?
Allegra Beck, Donatella Versace's 20-year-old daughter is currently in treatment for anorexia.
As a long-time fan of Versace's collections, I've always loved the emphasis on voluptuous curves and sensuality. It is saddening that even the heir of a great fashion empire feels pressure to remain stick-thin.
Amano Accessories by Carmen Gamarra at Funkshion '07
A trip to Funkshion '07 (Fashion Week Miami) left this accessories' lover disappointed and longing for more. Amano Accessories by Carmen Gamarra was the one and only strictly accessories designer featured during Funkshion. Expectations were high, but the goods were less than stellar.
The collection was brimming over with enormous and impractical envelope-style clutches and monotonous totes, and the matching belts were no improvement. Giving the public one bag in ten different colors or skins does not make for a well-rounded collection. It just makes it terribly boring. That is the best word to describe this decidedly uninspired accessories collection - BORING!
Always considered the less sophisticated version of New York Fashion Week, L.A. Fashion Week is nonetheless exciting and extremely worthwhile to watch.
Designers such as Imitation of Christ, long-time favorites of Hollywood celebrities, debuted collections inspired by the vintage and eclectic. Plenty of stars attended these shows, and proves that L.A. Fashion Week stands strong on its own.
As a Californian, I can instinctly say that there's no better representation of California style than that of L.A. Fashion Week. Source: [Link]
A Japanese construction worker has been arrested for stealing over 4,000 pairs of women's underwear, everything from pantyhose to panties. Mmm, if only I had an underwear collection like that.
A picture is worth 1,000 words, as well as 4,000 pairs of underwear.
And if you thought Fashion Week didn't get enough coverage in the media, you obviously were mistaken. The food diaries of various industry professionals were recorded in New York Magazine; including those of models and a show producer.
Not only am I getting hungry just thinking about the salmon with sweet mashed potatoes that Denise Mullin (female model) ate, but it also provides insight into the busy lives of industry professionals.
Everyone seems to drink a lot of tea, water, and wine though. Substituting liquids for solids? Eh. No thanks.
The eclectic collections at Japan Fashion Week included those of Everlasting Sprout, Doho, and Ato. Always a leader in promoting artistic clothing with avant-garde and pop culture influences, Japan Fashion Week has not disappointed fans again.
For example, Everlasting Sprout's use of delicate fabrics to create a naturalistic theme is typical of what one can find at Japan Fashion Week.
Without the glitz and theatrics of Paris Fashion Week, Japan Fashion Week still captures the audience with innovative ideas.
Monday night, Council of Fashion Designers of America nominees were announced.
This prestigious award, the Oscar of the fashion industry, is up for grabs among such designers including: Oscar de la Renta, Phillip Lim, and Ralph Lauren.
The best thing about CFDA is that the designers behind the label are emphasized. Really, how many people don't realize that Marc Jacobs is behind the Louis Vuitton collections?
Paris Fashion Week wasn't just about the gorgeous fashions; the theatrical displays enthroning the runways were just as dazzling.
From Alexander McQueen's locust decorations to Chanel's dainty snowflakes, the dramatic was the trend for everyone.
For example, Kenzo models strutted down the runway to spicy tango music and tango dancers even appeared at the end of the show.
No more stark runways, unless the designer is going for a minimalist look. Very exciting and interesting, but doesn't this detract from the fashion? Is this just to attract audience and press?
Human Coat Hangers: Viktor & Rolf Fall 2007 Ready-to-Wear
Fashion's really surprising sometimes. Such as the Victor & Rolf Fall 2007 collection, with models walking down the runway with huge metal clips attached to their clothes. The clothes are extremely wearable, but the styling motif is fascinating and odd.
Everything looks good, I must admit, but strangely uncomfortable. The atmosphere is tense and discomforting, and highly unpractical.
That said, the drapes and folds of each piece is artistically designed and styled, and I do enjoy the doll-like allusions each piece makes.
Definitely check out the whole collection by yourself in the link below; whether the metal rigs look like torture devices or doll stands is up to you to decide.
While Paris Fashion Week is known for its household names such as Chanel and Christian Dior, designers such as Christophe Decarnin for Balmain prove that big-name designer labels aren't the only ones receiving press this week.
Once again, a lot of black and white is used in the pieces, with shimmers of silver here and there. I absolutely loved the mini-dresses for their simple cut, but still far from simplified with their detailed feathering and designs. The swooshing gowns however, were far from practical with their high and open slits. We're not all built with model-type bodies, but it's a good thing Decarnin had models who could work it.
I never knew about Balmain before today, but something about it really appeals to me. Perhaps it's the sense of movement in the clothing, perhaps it's the classic elegance made for femininity.
Versace, known for its glamorous and expensive looks, has chosen to display a more minimalist side of fashion. Yet, it was still very Versace in the sense that luxury and opulence were still intact.
While there were many uses of subdued tones such as black, beige, and white, vibrant shades of red and blue were the standouts of the collection. Donatella Versace calls this blue, "litmus-paper blue". Like Donatella herself, the collection was made to impress.
The gorgeous famous Versace gowns were still as stunning as ever, with flowing light fabrics and long slits meant to accentuate the shapely legs of the person wearing it. Interestingly, Donatella opted not for the androgynous minimalist look but fashioned a bell-shaped curve of her own, meant to represent femininity.
Possibly one of my most favorite collections of Milan Fashion Week, Versace has once again proved it can be sexy and lavish without being tacky.
Sex Appeal: Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2007 Ready-to-Wear
Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, the designers of Dolce & Gabbana, presented a Fall 2007 collection based upon sex appeal, charm, and opulence.
The edgy styles included sizzling leopard print, metallic stilleto heels, and fantastic uses of leather in corsets and luxurious coats. Feathers were in frequent use, as well as pretty tulles and gauzes that while may be more commonly seen on ballerinas, became the emblem of 'fetish' style. Known for its grandiose and sexy designs, Dolce & Gabbana is the opposite of the popular minimalist look. For them, more is better, as long as you look good in it.
Britney Spears entered rehab for the third time today in what continues to be a bizarre series of events surrounding the one-time pop princess since she shaved her own head a few days ago in a Tarzana, California salon.
After two one-day rehab stays, Britney has checked into an undisclosed facility for what will supposedly be a 35 to 40 day visit.
Sources have speculated that Britney rushed to check into rehab today after soon-to-be-ex husband Kevin Federline filed for an emergency family law court hearing to take custody of their two small children. The hearing has since been cancelled.
There are various theories as to why lucious-locked Britney shaved off her hair. Some say it was to prevent Federline's threat to drug test her hair; others say it was to remove lice; while some believe it was simply a preamble the singer's impending nervous breakdown.
Regardless of the reason, Britney's, shall we say 'haircut', has caused a media uproar, as has her subsequent wig-wearing and unstable behaviour.
Let's hope this time her stay in rehab lasts longer than 24 hours. Britney should get clean not only for herself, but most important, for the well-being of her two little boys.
One of the top fashion trends for this year will be futuristic themed clothing, and Prada is leading the way in celebrating this trend.
The Fall 2007 collection consists of pieces made from man-made materials similar to foam, sponge cloth, and plastic. Gorgeous coats, skirts, and dresses were made with these materials, including swing-back coats and sheath dresses.
Those of you who are interested in animal protection rights may be pleased to acknowledge the lack of animal products in Prada's show, although plastic is generally not a safe product for animals or babies. Hopefully, this won't be a problem as long as no one decides to throw out their Fall 2007 black Prada coat...
Potato Crisps on the Runway: Antoni and Alison Fall 2007 Ready-To-Wear
While London Fashion Week has yet to rival Paris or New York for its household name designers, it definitely strays from the usual.
The British designers, Antoni and Alison, presented their runway collections in a 19th century pub with models sipping on wine and snacking on potato crisps, perhaps in response to the "skinny" debate and deaths of two models that propelled Madrid to ban size zero models.
A 19th century pub is a stark contrast to traditional runway settings, but perhaps it represents casual fun and "seeing double", which was a theme in Antoni and Alison's collection.
With the opening of London Fashion Week, designers such as Peter Ingwersen of Noir created a big impact, proving that London Fashion Week holds its own weight against its Parisian and American counterparts. The prime focus was on up-and-coming designers, but most likely they won't be merely up-and-coming for long!
The Noir collection is a concoctions of subtle and understated colors, including white, beige, and black. The designs weren't entirely original, but still contained a whispy touch of elegance and a laidback attitude.
Unfortunately, many of the pieces were forgettable, as the tones faded into each other. Sometimes, even the accessories blended with the models' skin tones too much. Nonetheless, the collection was elegant, stylish, and pleasing to the eye. I would hope though, that Noir will continue to develop under Peter Ingwersen and the use of delicate fabrics and subtle fabrics will leave a stronger impact in future collections.
Under the control of Vivienne Westwood and John Galliano, the new social networking site, IQONS (www.iqons.com) is directed towards those of the fashion industry. From fashionistas seeking to discover the newest 'it bag' to emerging fashion designers all around the globe, IQONS is becoming an extremely popular site.
Finally, the fashion industry fully realizes the power and potential of the internet. Hurry now, and reserve the Portrait Name (username) you'd like for the network if you like fashion, before it's taken!
The L.A. based label, Heatherette, has long been known to cater to the eclectic clubbers of California. The designs defy the trends, and instead set boundaries of their own.
As always, there is a whimsical touch to the collection, and something is always off-balance. The designers, Richie Rich and Traver Rains, have led Heatherette to worldwide success and proves that you don't have try to be glamorous to be fashionable. Heatherette is about childhood, exploration, and reconstruction.
Indeed, many of the pieces are both reconstructed and deconstructed, seeking to find something new in the old. It's colorful, eye-catching, and controversial to many people. For long-time fans of Heatherette however, it's about defying expectations and coming up with something quirky and wearable from the oddest designs.
Perhaps it's just me, but I'm not a big fan of designer logos. I will gladly purchase a chic leather bag from a generic company instead of a Louis Vuitton Speedy 30. Once again, perhaps that's just me.
As much as I love Chanel, I can't stand this Chanel football. Who would actually buy this oval-shaped rubber hunk of mass for $195?
A very fashion-conscious football player, I must say.
As the Fall 2007 Ready-to-Wear collections are being revealed to the public one-by-one, I must admit that I have a soft spot for the up-and-coming designer, Alexander Wang. He attended my school, and I'm awed at how a little boy from the high-tech surroundings of Silicon Valley is now presenting his works at New York City Fashion Week.
Alexander Wang became known first for his extremely luxurious 100% cashmere knits, but it's obvious that his talents extend beyond that. In this collection, he incorporates his zeal for casual and comfortable street style with a twinge of Parisian elegance and usage of luxurious fabrics. His collection for men and women is both edgy and yet subtle, by the detailing in the folds and prints and the simple lines of each piece.
Extremely wearable and versatile, Alexander Wang has the potential to become a household name not only among fashionistas.
Tyra Banks the "America's Next Top Model" host and Victoria's Secret model has always been admired for her perfect body.
So it came as a bit of shock when the National Enquirer published photos of the supermodel, looking a little chubby with the title "America's Next Top Waddle" - this coming from the same tabloid that publishes skeleton-like images of Nicole Richie.
Tyra fired back by wearing the same swimsuit on her talk show displaying her lean and curvy new figure, which was a far cry from the distorted image in the tabloid. She also appeared on the latest issue of PEOPLE magazine, saying she's proud of her post-modeling curves.
During an intense skinny-model controversy in the fashion world, and while all eyes are on top models and celebrities that are literally starving, its just mind-boggling that a 161 lbs. 5'10" fit celebrity would receive this kind of scrutiny, frankly Tyra looks better than ever.
New York's Page Six is reporting yet another encounter with a terrified Anna Wintour staffer. It sounds like Meryl might have actually played her down.
A staffer at The Post received a frantic call from Wintour's office the other morning. The young woman was near hysteria, asking how she could print out the Post's entire online edition. After walking the Wintour underling through the steps, she was asked, "Is she really that difficult?" "I can't talk now. I'm too busy," she replied and hung up.
Poor thing, and to think she'll never get an Oscar nod for her real-life role, unlike her counterpart in the the film based on Wintour, the Devil Wear's Prada. I wonder if she really prefers Prada? I'd ask but I, like her workers, am too afraid.
Most tech savvy women are equally fashion savvy so LG's new Prada phone seems like the perfect new product. Complete with a touch-screen driven interface, South Korea's LG is looking to bask a bit in the anticipatory halo surrounding Apple's forthcoming IPhone.
According to digitaltrends.com, The LG Prada phone is unlikely to ever see U.S. markets—it's a tri-band GSM unit with EDGE data service—although it should hit retailers in the U.K., France, Germany, and Italy in February, and reach Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore by March, with a Korean release following in the second quarter of 2007.
The phone sports a 2 megapixel camera (with a Schneider-Kreuznach lens), a built-in media player capable of handling music (MP3, AAC, AC+, WMA, and RealAudio) and video (MPEG4, H.263, H.264), along with a document viewing which can display PowerPoint, Word, Excel, PDF, and text documents.
The fashion-phone sports a 400 by 240 LCD touch screen, and the phone is operated on-screen via a touch screen interface built using Macromedia Flash. The phone also offers Bluetooth 2.0, USB 2.0, microSD storage, and Internet connectivity via mobile data services, rather than Wi-Fi.
And keeping in mind that all good things come in small packages, the whole unit measures just 98.8mm by 54mm by 12mm (3.9 by 2.1 by .47 inches).
The drawbacks: although many are comparing the device to the forthcoming Apple iPhone—and noting that it's a bit smaller—consider that the Prada phone offers a skimpy 8 MB storage (opting instead for microSD cards), doesn't support Wi-Fi connectivity—and the iPhone's will pack a larger display (480 by 320 pixels).
But with a name like Prada, the €600 price tag (about USD $770) seems like a well-justified splurge.
Finally the U.S. is catching up to its European counterparts on the fashion weight debate. New York, led by the Council of Fashion Designers of America, has issued these guidelines regarding the underweight model issue, according to About.com:
Models under 16 are banned from the runway and models under 18 shouldn't work past midnight.
Models identified with an eating disorder must get professional help; these models can only return to work with that professional's OK.
Provide healthy food for the models during fashion shows and prohibit smoking and alcohol.
The debate began when two models died last year of suspected weight-related ailments: one collapsing on a Uruguay runway, the other in Brazil from anorexia-related complications. Madrid initiated the campaign against underweight models with guidelines banning models under a body mass index of 18. Milan became the first major fashion capital to issue guidelines regulating underweight models, and now finally, the U.S.
Will the fashion industry really take notice, or will Kate Moss continue to reign supreme? For now at least the industry is making some changes, let's hope it continues.
The Hollywood Foreign Press may have started the awards show over half a century ago to honor the best of the best in film and television, but let's be honest, the top awards go to the best dressed. The award may have less impact on your reputation than a fashion mistake, and a stunning gown can make you a star whether you win or lose.
So here is the breakdown of the winners and losers - in fashion of course - do you really care who won for best screen play?
According to ABC.com:
Angelina Jolie — Her charcoal-gray, strapless gown was only the beginning. Add the delicate diamond necklace, the sleek updo, the soft smoky eyes, pale lips and a one-of-a-kind accessory, Brad Pitt, and you've got yourself the ultimate Hollywood legend.
Hilary Swank — Her navy blue, spaghetti strap dress fit her perfectly (style note: Fit is crucial!), and the bow detail at the waist added a feminine touch. Natural makeup, 1940s-style finger waves and the diamond flower hair clip made her look, well, super-swanky!
Penelope Cruz — Her fitted, black Chanel Couture gown was anything but basic. The fluttery ruffle detailing on the straps brought attention to her face, as did her Brigitte Bardot-esque hair. Instead of noticing Penelope's dress or makeup or hair, you simply noticed Penelope.
Drew Barrymore — Drew's Hollywood royalty roots were evident last night. When she breezed down the red carpet in her pale pink strapless John Galliano for Christian Dior gown, all eyes were suddenly on her, despite the fact that several other A-listers were in the immediate vicinity.
Cate Blanchett — A modern style icon, Blanchett never fails to impress. Her black lace, off-the-shoulder Alexander McQueen gown with the asymmetrical hem looked even more sophisticated with her barely-there makeup and soft, tousled hair.
Cameron Diaz — Her dark hair and red lips looked particularly striking when paired with a one-shoulder white gown. The ruffle detail on the shoulder and the jeweled black bow belt were especially intriguing.
Meryl Streep — Streep would have made any fashion editor proud with her blush chiffon Carolina Herrera gown.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus — First, the mustard hue. Mustard? Next, the length. While hemlines may be on the rise, it seemed inappropriate for a best actress nominee to opt out of a full-length gown in favor of a knee-length cocktail dress. Plus, the dress didn't fit. Every time we saw Julia, her bustline seemed to be in a different place.
Patricia Arquette — Her unnatural coif and stiff strapless dress made this former Globe winner look like a…well, you know.
Sienna Miller — Love it or hate it, only Sienna could pull off this look. I'm still not sure exactly where I stand on it, but her white and gold patterned gown had a gladiator-meets-goddess vibe that was substantially softened by her Heidi-like braided hairdo.
Jennifer Love Hewitt — Her copper lace George Chakra gown was garish at best, and her overdone hair made matters worse. No love for Jennifer.
Once again, Mr. Blackwell gives us the much anticipated "Worst Dressed Women List".
Britney Spears and Paris Hilton tied for No. 1 on Mr. Blackwell's 47th annual "Worst Dressed Women List".
Calling them "two peas in an over-exposed pod" and "style-free and fashion deprived," Blackwell dubbed Spears and Hilton the "Screamgirls."
Blackwell didn't limit his nitpicking to young stars such as 20-year-old Lindsay Lohan (No. 3), who went, he claims "from adorable to deplorable" - also targeted, in No. 10 spot, was 57-year-old Meryl Streep, even though she played a fashionista in The Devil Wears Prada.
I'd like to make my own "Worst Waste of Time" list where celebrities that wasted my time in terrible movies or scandals could get some backlash, maybe next year!
We knew it wouldn't be long before the British public found a new muse and the Paparazzi a new victim.
Kate Middleton, the much publicized girlfriend of Prince William, had to be rescued by a small army of security people after she was surrounded by Paparazzi at a night club when she was spotted with her prince, as reported by FashionWatch.
Kate, who is about to celebrate her 25th birthday, seems prepared to assume a higher profile as his future consort. From this point on comparisons to Princess Di can only be evitable. The media have started to scrutinize her every move. Although she is not yet considered a fashion icon her classic and somewhat demure style is being noticed and imitated. The young Diana was not considered a trend setter at first but slowly grew into the role. Kate is expected to do the same.
Hopefully this fairy tale romance will have a much happier ending.
Last September, Trend Hunter posted an article about Madrid's skinny model ban from their catwalk - sparked by the death of a runway model. That ban started a wave of other similar bans and for the first time ever brought some attention to the ultra-skinny models in high fashion.
Yet the controversy seems to have floated right by Brazil. The style conscious upper class are still starving themselves in the name of so-called beauty. The nation is transfixed on a thin ideal and anorexia among the successful and well off is growing. The deaths of four young women in recent weeks from anorexia — a disorder characterized by an abnormal fear of becoming obese, an aversion to food and severe weight loss — have been splashed across the front pages of newspapers nationwide.
How odd that in a country where millions of impoverished Brazilians are starving, the elite are dying (literally) for their own starvation. For those who say fashion is just fun and has no social impact, they might want to take a second look at the warped ideals that are causing this Brazilian phenomenon.
Looking for something unique? (if by unique we mean gaudy)
What better to snap oodles of pictures at your Thanksgiving feast than with a gravy-proof (and gold-plated) SLR? Taking a note from the bevy of other Midas-touched gizmos out there, the Asahi Pentax LX Gold sports a thoroughly blinding paint job with faux-alligator accents to add an extra layer of tacky to an already gaudy device. Apparently aiming to bring back a taste of 1981 (when the 10 millionth Pentax SLR rolled off the production line; pictured after the jump), the company is seemingly reintroducing the vivid shooter to celebrate 60 years of staying afloat. Of course, we aren't sure how many of these splendiferous units will be offered up (or wanted at all), but we're sure it'll rock quite a premium for those somehow interested.
This holiday season, Gucci announces the continuation of an international project to benefit UNICEF programs for children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa, the second installment of the most extensive philanthropic campaign in Gucci’s history. Gucci and UNICEF are honored to present Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Connelly as the global representative of the 2006 initiative, one to which she has deep personal ties given the considerable time she has spent in Mozambique and her commitment to the well-being of the children of this and other regions.
TODAY - Gucci's holiday collection hits stores. Twenty percent of the sales will benefit UNICEF, so you can shop guilt-free.
