KrislloydFashion

Fashion Week 2012: Fashionable Flocks (PHOTOS)

2013-02-14T08:30:00.001-08:00

Fashion Week 2012: Fashionable Flocks (PHOTOS)

Bling Makes a Big Splash During Fashion Week - DNAinfo.com New York

2013-02-14T07:59:00.001-08:00

Bling Makes a Big Splash During Fashion Week - DNAinfo.com New York

Kick-off NYFW F/W 2013: Prelude

2013-02-12T13:02:00.001-08:00

A quick preview of what's been happening during New York Fashion Week thus far, the F/W2013 season is almost wrapping up, but there are so many more talented designers to see and preview! I will begin posting write-ups about each designer I covered right after everything closes.. but for now enjoy the people and faces of fashion!!

Monique Lhuillier S/S 2013: Life of the Sea

2013-01-15T03:52:00.001-08:00

Phenomenal best describes Monique Lhuillier’s Spring /Summer 2013 collection. Inspired by the beauty of water and the “life of the sea” the collection was a burst of life in an array of colors just as magnificent and intricate as the world’s oceans. Monique created a collection so surreal that it almost transports the audience into an underwater world, as if one was living in the lost city of Atlantis.

“Evening is all about fluidity and movement, almost mermaid-like. Shimmering gold, sea glass beading in silhouettes close to the body showing lots of skin to create a very sensual woman for spring.”

Sensuality definitely prevails as an endless parade of body flattering evening wear debut into the runway in peplum and mermaid silhouettes in a plethora of colors such as aqua, coral, sea-foam, blues, purple, and lace embroidered in black. Spring/Summer 2013 is ushered in by cool colors alluding to the sea. Also notable in this collection are the amazing prints used, such as ‘bold-crane, fish, and abstract koi’ bringing to life the garment with picturesque life of the seas.

What I truly appreciate about a Monique Lhuillier show is that it always presents an amazing variety, from chic pant ensembles, shorts, jackets, and into her signature glamour stamped evening dresses from cocktail to floor sweeping lengths everything is beautifully cohesive and visually stunning!

On a side note, this season I had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Amparito Lhuillier (Monique’s mom), and was instantly enamored by her vibrant personality and beauty. Having grown up in Cebu, Philippines where the Lhuillier family has risen to prominence, it was such an honor to meet someone who has uplifted our community. Mrs. Amparito Lhuillier was a true delight and such a wonderful supporter to her daughter and her beautiful work.

VLOV by Qing Qing Wu S/S 2013: Design Serenity

2013-01-14T02:51:00.000-08:00

Ever since his New York Fashion Week debut a few seasons ago, Chinese designer Qing Qing Wu has caught the attention of New York’s fashion elites and fashionistas alike with his fluid menswear silhouettes and light weight fabrics and construction for VLOV. Often, one is accustomed to the structured designs of menswear, but VLOV is an unexpected balance of lightweight silks, linens, and cottons that surprisingly holds impeccable tailoring.

Influenced by “tranquility and a serene sense of calmness” Qing Qing Wu reflects this in VLOV by constructing fluid designs in colors of light blue, light greys, beige, taupe, and other colors of pure nature. It’s often surprising for one to see such amazing designs with such delicate fabrics when applied to menswear, in fact most menswear designers avoid designing unstructured pieces because it’s too difficult to execute- and for Qing Qing Wu to execute such an amazing collection it shows his mastery of design.

Whenever a show commands some of the most recognizable names in the modeling industry such as Sean Opry, Sebastian Suave, Simone Nobili, River Viiperi, and David Agbodji, it sets the tone to one spectacular show- VLOV was sure to please even the most jaded fashion connoisseurs. Having covered VLOV since its debut, I do have an affinity to the brand, but it’s great design that keeps me engaged and looking forward to another show!

Mathieu Mirano S/S 2013: Edgy Details

2013-01-11T19:19:00.001-08:00

Relatively young, designer Mathieu Mirano has been showing so much promise season after season with his unique, modern, and sensational take on evening and ready to wear. Using combinations of traditional textiles blended and complimented with new materials into a body flattering silhouette he produces one of the most jaw dropping presentations of New York Fashion Week.

I always enjoy a well-executed juxtaposition of edgy and feminine when it comes to evening wear; especially in long floor sweeping gowns. I feel that time and again we see the beauty in evening wear, but it often loses its unique voice amongst the millions of eveningwear in the market- this is where Mathieu Mirano’s designs stand out!

I love that at every opportunity Mathieu takes a bold chance to create a modern look, giving his creation that unique voice, but all the while still maintaining that beauty and elegance that mainstream consumers look for; for the sake of marketability- I guess I am describing one of my favorite pieces of the collection. The Green Chiffon Beetle Gown is one of my personal favorite from Mathieu Mirano’s S/S 2013 collection. The gown speaks volume in creativity but still exudes elegance.

Finally, how can one ignore the delicious floor length White Sequined Cape gown with the multi rainbow yoke? Minimal, but with a Mathieu Mirano twist it is phenomenal!!! One truly appreciates the chicness of a cape and also well on trend for the season, but a sequined cape is just one of this things that fashion will either love or shun with disgust, and in this case fashion LOVES it!

Nina Skarra S/S 2013: Refined Glamour

2013-01-10T03:45:00.004-08:00

Nina Skarra draws inspiration from childhood memories of her mother and grandmother as her personal style icons, their rebellious youthfulness and their wardrobe of their time. She develops her designs using her personal inspirations along with Scandinavian design and craftsmanship to create a collection of “refined glamour” for Spring/Summer 2013.

Using hues of blush pinks, ivory, silver, and sky blue with punches of natural earth tones, the collection was a reflection of pure serenity. An important component in Nina Skarra’s design is using quality fabrics and a sustainable production process, which I find commendable whenever a designer chooses eco-friendly designs.

I appreciate the simplicity of minimalism but with a touch of glamour, not through glitz and frills but through amazing design and body flattering silhouettes and indeed Nina Skarra accomplishes such a delicate feat to balance clean lines with a touch of glamour.

Reem Acra S/S 2013: Defining Sexy+Elegance

2013-01-09T21:59:00.000-08:00

The fashion world has come to expect the exquisite and meticulous details from every Reem Acra piece, and those familiar with her bridal line know all too well how amazing and stunning each masterpiece she creates, but for several seasons after her return to center stage at New York Fashion Week and into the limelight of the “tents” Reem Acra has consistently re-defined sexy, sultry, elegant ready to wear pieces.

From one stunning piece to the next the audience is left in awe as curve extenuating dresses debut on the runway, some looking as if they were painted on the models. I am always left breathless when I see the metallic pieces, almost as if gold was melted and just poured on a model and left to cover all her curves beautifully- this is a testament of perfect design meeting skillful execution.

This season Reem Acra added a sexy twist into an already alluring dress. I’m loving this sheer peak-a-boo full length cut on the side of the dress that gives the audience a side-view treat, but leaving the rest to each one’s imagination. There is a fine line between sexy and trashy, but Reem Acra is first and foremost defined by ELEGANCE, sexy silhouettes are just the icing on an already delicious cake!

Each season I often pray to the fashion gods that my invite from Reem Acra’s PR people come into my inbox because a runway show such as hers is not to be missed!!!!

Joanna Mastroianni S/S 2013: Color Me Paradise!

2013-01-09T18:30:00.002-08:00

Colors, Cage, and Capes highlighted Joanna Mastroianni’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Inspired by her own garden and personal sanctuary, the designer created a collection bursting in colors of paradise, from hues of yellow green, violets, reds, magenta, and natural vines all woven into her design; taking fashion into a surreal “secret garden” fantasy.

I am always taken back season after season watching Joanna Mastroianni’s runway shows, I love the use of bold unexpected colors and the variety of figure flattering silhouettes that range from cocktail, to floor sweeping, to an exquisite tailored pant suit, and all the while still incorporating her signature ‘cage’ design that juxtapose feminine with strong masculinity very well. A colorful daytime wear look can easily transition into a subdued but elegant nighttime ensemble just with the addition of a cage cape.

Every season I expect this level of regal elegance from Joanna Mastroianni, and I am NEVER disappointed! Classic+Trendy+Chic for women of all ages and stages in life, and that’s what makes a designer into an ICON, and I do look forward to another season of beautiful designs.

Noon by Noor S/S 2013: Minimalist Luxe

2013-01-09T00:33:00.000-08:00

A long awaited anticipation was met and exceeded by a stunningly executed show. Noon by Noor was a combination of sultry, sexy, and refinement all skillfully blended into one collection. From gold, to tangerines, to salmon, and iridescence, each piece had a sense of personality that was a breath of fresh fashion air!

Designers Shaikha Noor Rashid Al Khalifa and Shaikha Haya Mohammed Al Khalifa created an amazing collection that meticulously balanced evening wear with a strong daytime tailoring that exudes modern silhouettes while maintaining that ever crucial femininity that often tailored pieces lose in translation. The designers executed luxuriously a balance of structure and fluidity!

I for one enjoyed such pieces as the brocade biker jackets, the bronze metallic shorts, and metallic jacquard suits that shimmer in different shades as light hits it from different angles- a twist on a classic tailored suit that keeps it surprisingly feminine but powerful.

Minimalism seem to be the theme for several designers this season, but I appreciate that Noon by Noor used unexpected colors, textiles, and tailoring that set the collection far apart from the rest, and that’s what keeps a design memorable and marketable.

Fotini S/S 2013: Perfect Pastels

2013-01-03T13:30:00.000-08:00

Rafael Cennamo S/S 2013: Beauty in Fantasy

2012-10-01T20:10:00.001-07:00

Incredible attention to detail as Rafael Cennamo uses an icy inspiration for his Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Rafael Cennamo’s creation seemed to have come out of a winter fantasy of ice blues and crystals; with pleating and draping details enhanced with gorgeous beadings and trims to captivate one’s attention.

One’s personal favorite would have to be the floor length dress with stunning beading and one shoulder detail in a light brown and crème color. A wonderful combination of glamour, sultry, and body flattering silhouettes in sheers, satin, and silk create this gown flawlessly.

Mara Hoffman S/S 2013: ALOHA Paradise!

2012-09-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Mara Hoffman’s Spring/Summer 2013 runway was a sea of vibrant colors, prints, and Island culture. Inspired by the Hawaiian expression “Aloha”, meaning PEACE, Mara Hoffman debut a collection as beautiful as the Hawaiian Islands themselves; stating, “Each season, my goal is to take the audience on a journey and express the transcendent feeling of love and positivity. This is what we wish to be known for and want to capture in our shows; always celebrating beauty and having a little fun with it.”

With a celebrity studded front row, hosting Bryan Boy, Rumi Neely, Jessica White, Irina Pantaeva, Lil Kim, Julie Henderson, Kenza Fourati, Charlotte Ross, and India De Beaufort to name a few the venue was buzzing in anticipation.

Key looks from the collection featured prints including Aloha (abstract geometrics), Medicine Wheel (herbs and flowers), and Desert (Mara’s interpretation of quilting print); all this balanced out by more subdued pieces of earthy color palettes. Also injected into the collection are the more novelty pieces that amusingly allude to the tourist life of the Hawaiian Islands. My definite favorites are the dresses featuring the peak-a-boo cut-outs and the blazers bursting with prints and color.

One note- worthy thing that invoked such a strong feeling of home for me was that throughout front row they placed jasmine blooms in each seat. I grew up in the Philippines with a front yard covered in jasmine (locally called sampaguita), and the venue was filled with the aroma so it automatically triggered a sense of peace as I recalled childhood memories. Another beautiful collection by Mara Hoffman only made better as one recalls fond memories; this was truly one memorable runway show.

Farah Angsana S/S 2013: From Brazil with LOVE

2012-09-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Exquisite and stunning can only begin to describe Farah Angsana’s namesake label. No one can capture the attention of a restless fashion crowd quite like Farah; and silence the entire venue in awe, except for the shutter sounds of countless cameras and the often heard gasps of “ooh’s and ahh’s” by a stunned audience as one beautiful design after another make its way into the runway.

This season Farah Angsana drew inspiration from her international travel to Brazil and the LOVE she surrounds herself; thus creating a Spring/Summer 2013 collection full of vibrant colors, sultry and sexy silhouettes, and a regal refinement of royalty that only Farah can translate and execute in her designs. It is often said that a beautiful soul mirrors its substance into its work; if that’s true, Farah Angsana’s soul must be truly be gorgeous- because her work is simply magnificent.

Farah Angsana’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection is a delightful explosion of colors and flawlessly constructed ready-to-wear evening and cocktail dresses. From the regal sophistication of Brazil’s elite; to the vivacious energy of ‘Carnivale’, Farah Angsana covers the gambit of a full Brazilian experience- while adding her unique and upscale touches to each design. One of my favorite designs from the Spring/Summer 2013 collection were the belted caftans, done in the most delicious colors and exquisite trims and embellishments; a wonderful combination of sexy and fluid silhouette. In particular, the “tangerine silk chiffon belted caftan with beaded neckline” was my personal favorite; the combination of tangerine and turquoise left me wanting more!

Each season I always look forward to covering Farah Angsana’s runway show, and each season I am left speechless and left with anticipation for the upcoming season. I am honored to know such a talent like Farah Angsana, and can’t wait until the unveiling of her next collection.

Zang Toi S/S 2013: French Romanticism

2012-09-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

Zang Toi’s romantic aesthetics was beautifully carried through his runway collection with soft pastel colors and delicate fabrics as his Spring/Summer 2013 collection was inspired by the romantic French Riviera. One can close his eyes and be transported to an epic novel set within the blooming gardens of a chateau; sweet pink roses and lilacs enveloping you- this is the feeling invoked.

Without a question Zang Toi has some of the most loyal followings, from celebrities to the career New York woman; all clamor to take a seat at Zang’s runway show to see first-hand what new and exciting creations he has to unveil. Each season notable names like Kristie Alley, New York’s Real Housewives Ramona Singer, Sonja Morgan, and Alex Van Kempen; NBA star Matt Barnes along with his wife Gloria Govan and her sister Laura Govan both from the hit show Basketball Wives LA on VH1, are among the many taking front row seats next to some of fashion’s most powerful editors and elites. Even famed photographer Bill Cunningham swoops in at the last minute with his trademark camera to sit in Zang Toi’s show.

Each season I look for several components that truly make a Zang Toi collection special. First, I have come to expect his romantic aesthetic with impeccably constructed ready to wear ensembles and dresses that extenuate any woman’s body while giving her a regal stature. The next thing I look for is the bold accessories usually a neckwear piece to die for that’s made with oversized gems, stones, or crystals; quintessential Zang Toi. Lastly, I look forward to a well-choreographed show that leaves the audience and me looking for more and restless in anticipation for the next look to debut on the runway. It may be unrealistic to expect perfection, but Zang Toi always delivers, and I am never disappointed. I look forward to another spectacular season and what surprise Zang Toi will deliver.

Venexiana S/S 2013: Evening Gown Glamour!

2012-09-23T00:48:00.000-07:00

“No other show can pack a fashion crowd into Mercedes Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center at 9pm like Venexiana can!” This sentiment was shared by many fashion enthusiasts, from magazine editors, bloggers, videographers, and aspiring student designers waiting for Kati Stern to send out another magnificent collection of jaw-dropping evening wear.

For many who haven’t had the pleasure of seeing a Venexiana show live on the runway, one will walk you through. Definitely expect glamour, and a sea of colors that catches your eyes from one ensemble to the next. Expect a collection that injects amazing details in the construction, trims, and overall look- pieces that will leave you speechless, but just long enough for you to catch your breath to take in the next look coming down the runway. After 4 seasons of experiencing Venexiana on the runway, I have set my expectations high, and Kati Stern seems to raise it as she did for Spring/Summer 2013.

71 fresh new looks with a myriad of colors from Blush, Champagne, Salmon, Light Peach, Orange, Dusty Rose, and Cherry Red make their way down the Studio runway towards a crowd of gasping people and never ending camera clicks and flashes. As each piece come down, one can see the smiles and adoration of each person in front-row.

S/S 2013 for Venexiana meant evening gowns with embellished laces; crystal trims, floral appliques, floral prints, feather trains, and metallic all come together as ingredients to an amazing fashion mosaic.

Angel Sanchez S/S 2013: Color Bold Geometrics

2012-09-21T03:00:00.001-07:00

Bold color blocking and geometric precision; all done in lightweight fabrics such as georgette and organza defines the gorgeous Spring/Summer 2013 collection by Angel Sanchez.

Crème and black highlighted with royal blue, deep-ocean blue, and mustard yellows were the theme colors for the collection, but it was all about precision details that set Angel Sanchez apart from the plethora of ready to wear evening and cocktail dress designers. The softness and gentility of the collection was given edge by this amazing geometric cut-outs technique. A simple evening floor length gown was given life as it showed off laser precise trims, and also done on a pencil skirt taking both pieces to a whole new level in fashion. Most of the pieces in the collection were in fluid silhouettes, and yet it still gave a sexy definition to a woman’s figure; achieving this is testament only to the designer’s understanding of women’s bodies, and beautifully executing his vision.

One must admit that it’s refreshing to see something different, modern, and innovative; designers such as Angel Sanchez thinking outside the box and taking a calculated risk. For example, color blocking has been done by numerous designers, and using geometric shapes as the collection’s inspiration have been noted as far back as the 1960’s, but it is undeniable that Angel Sanchez did a spectacular job modernizing both techniques for his Spring/Summer 2013 collection giving us a romantic and subtle edginess in every ensemble.

W118 by Walter Baker S/S 2013: Casual Elegance

2012-09-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

“Confidence and Style are common threads connecting women all around the world- and that forever inspires me.”- Walter Baker

Inspired by ‘modern jet-setters’ , W118 by Walter Baker highlights minimalist silhouettes with tropical prints and bold colors, Spring/Summer 2013 focuses on the quality of fabrics and the simplicity of design for which the combination of contrasting colors create a wonderful collection of “Casual Elegance.”

Many of W118 designs focuses on fluid silhouettes that boast amazing prints that can be worn casually or paired with an amazing tailored suit to create a perfect ensemble.

Whitney Eve S/S 2013: Elements Magnified

2012-09-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

As celebrities and fashion connoisseurs alike pour into the Studio at Lincoln Center the scene would have been utter chaos if it weren’t for the efficiency of the PR staff from People’s Revolution. Everyone from magazine editors, bloggers, and photographers were eagerly anticipating what designer Whitney Port had in store for her Whitney Eve Spring/Summer 2013 collection. At one point the house was at such capacity that venue security closed down the lines with people waiting to get inside; I knew this show was sure to leave everyone in awe.

Whitney Eve ‘s S/S 2013 collection explores the ideas of geological elements, and uses it as inspiration for her signature prints, “the elements of precious stones and crystals magnified, shattered, and blurred to create this season’s prints.” Whitney Eve is synonymous to eclectic feminine aesthetic, while embracing a youthful elegance. Printed denim, fringed evening gowns and blouses, and luxurious knit-wears all combine under a banner of menswear inspired tailoring to create this strong edgy definition of femininity.

Personally, I enjoy when designers combine different aspects of design such as structured and fluid silhouettes, casual and tailored, soft and edgy to create an ensemble that‘s complimentary to each piece and exudes confident ‘CHIC’ , and Whitney Eve is a prime example of how mixing and matching different fashion ingredients can come together as a perfect mosaic in fashion.

Many in the industry had deep doubts about Whitney Port making her mark as a respected designer often remarks like “She’s another celebrity using her fame to try to be a designer,” has been expressed, but as she proves her talent; and season after season bring to one of fashion’s biggest stage an amazing collection, Whitney Port has cemented her name as a respected American Designer, and proves all doubts WRONG! I continue to look forward to Whitney Port’s growth as a designer and what direction she will take Whitney Eve in the future.

Naeem Khan F/W 2012: "The Body as a Canvas"

2012-08-07T09:28:00.004-07:00

Experiencing a Naeem Khan show to say the least is magical; after 3 seasons of press covering Naeem Khan one must say that the magic is still alive along with opulence, glamour, and jaw-dropping intricate beadings and embroideries that keeps one’s eyes glued to the runway. From fashion’s elites such as Fern Mallis, Robert Verdi, and Phillip Bloch, to celebrities such as Padma Lakshmi, Matt Damon, and Holly Robinson-Peete were all in attendance for Naeem Khan’s Fall/Winter 2012 runway show.

F/W 2012 is inspired by “the decadence and dust of India,” and the notion that the ‘body’ is a medium of art and religious expression. Naeem Khan drew inspirations from India’s culture to reflect in the collection in the forms of metallic embroidery details, swirl metal beadings, with precious jewel trims set in silver and gold threading. Khan modernized ancient artistry to create body flattering, luxurious dresses and ready to wear pieces for today’s woman.

Each season I always look, and sometimes expect a beautifully executed caftan that only Naeem Khan can produce; this season was certainly no different from the once past. F/W 2012 “black and white striped georgette caftan with beaded lace edging,” exceeded all my expectations! Along with the caftan several other pieces were exceptional, such as the “black heart swirl jet beaded l/s cocktail dress with fringed hem,” and the pieces with trimmed in ostrich feathers were simply captivating.

As stunning as Naeem Khan’s Fall/Winter 2012 collection is and his success in previous collections, it was long overdue that Mercedes Benz and IMG honored such a fashion genius. As fashion recognizes Naeem Khan’s beautiful artistry and invaluable contribution to the fashion industry, one marvels at the thought of what’s next for Naeem Khan and what amazing work will he unveil for Spring/Summer 2013.

Michael Bastian F/W 2012: "The Extra Man"

2012-08-04T12:56:00.000-07:00

Michael Bastian’s Fall/Winter 2012 runway show was a scene of who’s who in fashion and celebrities alike. Outside, one sees familiar faces in fashion like Robert Verdi, CFDA’s -Steven Kolb, Paper Magazine’s -Mickey Boardman, Scene Magazine’s – Peter Davis, and every Men’s Magazine Editor from Details, GQ, and Nylon to name a few. But my moment of exaltation was when Bergdorf Goodman’s Linda Fargo (the very definition of fashion refinement) steps out of her service car only 2 feet away from me. This made waiting in the freezing cold without a jacket, (only because I was rushing from Lincoln Center, and the coat check line was horribly long), well worth it!

Themed “The Extra Man,” the collection was more like “The Leading Man!” Set against a changing season backdrop where a group in the collection reflects a different season, it was a spectacular show of American fashion exuding first class tailoring. Michael Bastian takes one through a variety of environments where man is at any given moment. From the wild outdoors, as reflected by a layered turtleneck with a plaid button down, and a heavier wool button. Next, we find the ‘businessman’, perfectly tailored 3 piece wool suits, and one button pin stripe suits can get any business done! Then, there is that casual sporty but oh’ so cool guy, reflected in the collection by colorful wool knit sweaters, a preppy combination of colored corduroys with a three button blazer. And finally, we find the style conscious man, the one that loves to push the edge of fashion and doesn’t apologize for causing a stir. From the fur collar to regal purple pants, and layered leather jackets, every stylish man can definitely enhance his style with Michael Bastian’s F/W collection.

If the collection wasn’t enough, one couldn’t help notice the amazing roster Michael Bastian’s F/W 2012 collection had, from all the top male models in the industry to an iconic male supermodel Tyson Beckford who graced the runway while on retirement! I got an opportunity to ask one of the ladies working for Michael Bastian, who happens to be next to me during the show, “How did you guys manage to get Tyson Beckford to walk this show, I thought he retired?” to which she responds, “It’s Michael Bastian, we can make anything happen!”

Reem Acra F/W 2012: Feminine Power

2012-08-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

Reem Acra’s Fall/Winter 2012 focused on “Feminine Power” the idea that all women should be confident in their own skin and whatever they wear. Reem Acra’s namesake brand certainly resonate that effortless confidence that all women possess and empowers all women to show off their personal style. Reem Acra’s F/W 2012 collection was a juxtaposition of strength and femininity, creating that modern woman who’s not afraid to show her style.

Throughout the collection metallic was an overall theme apparent in each piece that came down the runway, but done so skillfully that it never became redundant; in fact whether applied as the entire look or applied as a trim metallic enhanced the fluidity of each ensemble giving the illusion that some pieces could have been painted on just by the way it hugged the model’s figure so well. One particular dress that illustrates the skillful construction of Reem Acra’s design was this “multi-sequin starburst V-neck gown”, reflecting an art deco design it was so effortless but such an eye-catching gown as the light hit it from different angles. Another breath-taking gown was the “Ebony Diamond embroidered silk chiffon gown”, it was figure flattering and an undeniable show stopper; the construction was impeccable.

Reem Acra’s return to the center stage of New York Fashion Week after a short hiatus could not have been more successful with a Fall/Winter 2012 collection so stunning that all of fashion is buzzing with anticipation to see what the designer will bring for the next season. I for one am giddy with excitement to see how Reem Acra will follow up such an impressive season.

Venexiana F/W 2012: Evening Wear Perfected!

2012-08-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Kati Stern’s brand, Venexiana, has been a coveted show for many fashionistas during Mercedes Benz Fashion week. For the past 3 seasons of press covering Venexiana’s runway show I have always been left breathless by the stunning evening wears that grace the runway. Each season Venexiana always has a more lengthy presentation than any other designer; boasting 70 looks for Fall/Winter 2012, but well worth every second- no other show can ever fill Lincoln Center at 9pm like Venexiana has done and so well.

Asking one which gown, dress, or ensemble is one’s favorite is like asking which arm one can’t live without. Exuding luxury and un-rivaled glamour, each piece from Venexiana’s F/W 2012 collection were stunning and absolutely gorgeous, but certain pieces stood out amongst the rest. For example, the laser cut black velvet gown with sheer details left the room flooded with camera flashes and that unanimous ‘oooh’ from the crowd, a stunning statement to close the show. Another notable piece was the turquoise draped over one shoulder floor length gown with black print details, and the gold metallic one shoulder detail dress- constructed perfectly to give the illusion that liquid gold was poured on the model’s body.

I often look forward to New York Fashion Week, but in particular another chance to see a Venexiana show.

Prete&Bruno F/W 2012: "Unstoppable Glamour"

2012-08-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

Italian glamour comes to New York by way of Salvatore Prete and Filippo Bruno and their namesake brand Prete & Bruno. Using Hollywood icons stars like Marlene Dietrich and Grace Kelly as inspiration; their elegance and timeless beauty, Prete & Bruno pays homage to that era of glamour and opulence in their Fall/Winter 2012 collection.

Feminine silhouettes in hues of gold and emerald green set in classic black create a collection of modern and sophisticated ready-to-wear ensembles that reflect touches of couture construction. From the velvet black dress with emerald green silk lining and high front slit and low back scoop, to the shimmering sequined gold dress and the tweed suits, Prete & Bruno shows how Italian elegance is done.

Exuding Italian luxury at its finest, Prete & Bruno introduced one stunning piece after another to the surprise of the audience and it would be an understatement to say that one was amazed by the collection. Though the colors were a bit lacking, I still felt it added to the consistency of the collection; it gave it a great continuity where each look fit into the collection rather than looking misplaced as some pieces of other collection tend to have.

I also have to note that though the collection is for Fall/Winter 2012, every piece was so light weight and airy that it can easily transition into spring, from its bright emerald green color to sheer fabrics all contribute to this transitional fashion quite well.

Vantan Tokyo F/W 2012: Platform for Design!

2012-08-02T14:50:00.003-07:00

Cheryl Chee

As part of Vantan Design Institute’s incubation project, Vantan Tokyo was formed to invite its most promising graduating students and give them a platform to showcase their designs on an international stage, most prominently during Paris Fashion Week. This season 4 rising designers, Cheryl Chee, Masato Miyata, Yuya Kubohara, and Cheung Siu Yan took part in this runway showcase during New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2012 season. Each of the four participating designers showcased a variety of aesthetics and their brand theme to New York’s fashion enthusiasts.

Cheryl Chee with her namesake brand focused on knit sweaters, dresses with a mix of leather trims. Her technique in combining heavy knits to still create a flattering silhouette is commendable considering how relatively new she is in the design world.

Masato Miyata with his brand mi___s shows pieces with bold prints in pastel colors which gives his designs its femininity. His overall theme of “to hide = to show” combines youth and conservative to create a vibrant office appropriate attire but with personality.

Yuya Kubohara with his namesake brand uses the theme “Graphic Girl” befitting his collection of stunning graphic prints and bold eye catching colors from head to toe. Whether tone on tone combination or using different graphics layered against each other, Yuya creates an explosion of graphics with amazing knits.

The final designer Cheung Siu Yan and her brand Swanzi invoke the theme of “Nature in her eyes”. Fluid silhouettes are prominent throughout the design almost mimicking both ocean and earth coming together and creating a beautiful design.

Overall, a bright future is in stored for these designers as they grow over time, and I look forward to seeing each one of them transition into the US market and combine both their own aesthetic and American fashion.