Fashion Designers World blog for Fashion Designers | Industries

CHANEL BAGS ARE GAINING VALUE FASTER THAN THE STOCK MARKET

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 10:49:00 +0000

CHANEL BAGS ARE GAINING VALUE FASTER THAN THE STOCK MARKET

Need some justification for buying another Chanel bag? Turns out, it's not just a statement accessory to tote around—it's an investment. That's the result of a new study, which found that Chanel handbags have increased in value by more than 70 percent in the past five years. That's a bigger jump than the stock market and the housing market.

The research comes from Baghunter, a website that resells luxury handbags, so naturally it's probably going to be a bit biased. After all, earlier this year, Baghunter also found thata Birkin bag was a less risky investment than gold or the stock market. So don't necessarily take this as solid financial advice, but rather a fun look at how high-end goods gain value over time. (As long as you don't actually use them and wear out the material, of course.)

Baghunter focused the study on the Chanel Medium Classic Flap Bag, which has been around since 1955. When the bag first hit shelves, it went for just $220, and by 1990, it sold for $1,150. Now, in 2016, it costs a whopping $4,900. Overall, it increased in value by 71.92 percent between 2010 and 2015, which outperforms housing prices and the S&P 500. The researchers found similar, if slightly smaller, price increases for the Chanel Reissue 2.55 in sizes 226 and 227 and the Chanel Boy Bag in small and medium.

Source: harpersbazaar.com

STELLA MCCARTNEY TO DESIGN MENSWEAR

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 10:47:00 +0000

STELLA MCCARTNEY TO DESIGN MENSWEAR

Stella McCartney has confirmed rumors that she is branching out into menswear.

The British designer announced her plans at Pitti Uomo, the menswear trade shows currently taking place in Florence. Her first collection will be for autumn/winter 2017. As with her womenswear line, everything will be fur- and leather-free.

McCartney's wish to move into menswear has been brewing for a while, with the designer telling The New York Times: "The desire to marry the Stella woman to a man has been inside me since the very beginning."

The move is a smart one. After all, McCartney's strengths lie in tailoring, knitwear and separates – menswear staples – and she was trained by the Savile Row trainer Edward Sexton. She has previously designed bespoke menswear pieces for her father, Paul McCartney, David Bowie and, of course, the Olympic team.

Source: harpersbazaar.com

EXCLUSIVE: GET A LOOK AT THE NEW MONDAY SWIMWEAR COLLECTION

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 10:42:00 +0000

EXCLUSIVE: GET A LOOK AT THE NEW MONDAY SWIMWEAR COLLECTION

Plus, the bikini babes behind A Bikini A Day share their summer beauty essentials and their upcoming travel schedule.

What have the Bikini A Day girls been up to? Aside from walking around Manhattan in their swimsuits for Bazaar, launching an activewear brand, the bikini enthusiasts have also been busy working on their third collection for their line, Monday Swimwear, just in time for the first official day of summer.

Inspired by Miami, their new collection which will drop on Monday, June 20th, features bright colors—from fuschia to turquoise in the cuts their followers have come to know and love—as well as new two-piece styles, including bandeau and wrap tops.

Source: harpersbazaar.com

CINDY CRAWFORD AND DAUGHTER KAIA GERBER LOOK IDENTICAL IN THIS MAGAZINE COVER

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 08:21:00 +0000

Supermodel Cindy Crawford and her daughter Kaia Gerber take both the front and back covers of the newest issue of Chrome Hearts, a bi-annual publication by the L.A. rocker accessories boutique of the same name. A throwback image of Crawford in a strappy leotard takes the front cover while on the back, 14-year-old Gerber makes the same pose while wearing that Reformation "Cindy Crawford" sweatshirt and standing in the literal shadow of her mom's photo.

Gerber seems to be following closely in her mother's footsteps, as she continues to pursue her fledgling modeling career, plus a few acting gigs too. It's also helpful that she has her very experienced mother around for advice, whether it's on career or self-confidence.

"Yes, you can make a career out of doing what you love," Crawford told the bi-annual magazine. "But there's some days where it still sucks. It's still work, and that you do it anyway. That's like a life internship for them–watching us."

If you have been watching Gerber closely the past year, you'll realize this isn't her first time working with Chrome Hearts. In February, she made her fashion campaign debut when she posed for their eyewear ads.

Laurie Lynn/Courtesy Chrome Hearts

Source: harpersbazaar.com

SEE ALL THE LOOKS FROM DIOR'S 2017 CRUISE COLLECTION

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 08:10:00 +0000

The storied house took resort wear to London with interesting color combinations, layered slip dresses, classic suiting and tropical prints.

Dior 2017 collection

http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/designers/g7343/dior-2017-cruise-collection/

Source:harpersbazaar.com

AURORA JAMES HAS FEMININE SUMMER STYLE DOWN

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 08:05:00 +0000

Aurora James puts as much emphasis on creating beautiful pieces for her brandBrother Vellies as she does creating those pieces with integrity. "I think these days if you're not socially conscious you're a big part of the problem. The world is such a beautiful, magical place and as people we have the power to create and cause so much good. Why not harness each of our ideas and potential into something positive?," the designer asks. "I'm not asking every single person to drop their jobs and volunteer in Haiti. I just think as entrepreneurs we must motivate ourselves and challenge each other in a way that benefits the greater good and not just the bottom line." Each Brother Vellies piece is sustainably handmade in South Africa, Kenya and Morocco—which creates artisanal jobs within Africa. That beautiful inside-and-out vibe extends to the girl herself. See how James approaches style for daily life—Brother Vellies included, of course.

Look 1: Summer Brunch

"I'm a sucker for a white dress and I fell in love with this one pretty quickly. It's great for a summer day outside or for brunch."

3 spots you love in Brooklyn?

Olea on Lafayette in Fort Greene for dinner or brunch
Oroboro Store for their incredible edit of all of my favorite brands.
AP Cafe in Bushwick for the ultimate weekend indulgence—chicken & wafflesPictured:
Black Crane Dress; Brother Vellies shoes and bag...

Describe your style in 3 words

Whimsical, feminine, nostalgic

How would you describe the aesthetic of Brother Vellies?

"Valley of the Dolls" meets Marrakech

"The color of this dress is dreamy. It's a more playful way to stand out from the LBD crowd."
What's your vintage shopping philosophy/approach?

I love vintage to death. I try to look at quality, construction and cut. Always remember you can get things tailored.

Piece you wear the most from your own collection?

Brother Vellies Tufted Dhara Sandalsfor sure, I basically don't take those off

Pictured: Self Portrait dress; Brother Vellies shoes and bag

Look 2: A Night Out

What inspires you most as a designer?

The people we work with—everyone from those designing the shoes to the women wearing them in the end

Are you an online shopper or brick and mortar?

Both. But I've been very busy lately and Matches ships pretty quickly, so....

Wardrobe MVP (the piece that gets the most love in your wardrobe)

My Gucci kimono.

Look 3: A Day in the Park

"I have some go to jeans that are staples for me. They're great paired with a vintage blouse, vibrant sandals and a fun bag. Day-in-the-park perfect!"

First fashion memory?

My mom's snakeskin dress. I would hide in her closet and touch it.

Most exciting thing that's happened since launching your brand?

It's crazy and totally an eye roll moment for me to say this but it's true—every day is more exciting than the last. The three years since I launched this company have been such an incredible journey. I know the best is still yet to come, too.

Pictured: Vintage top; AMO jeans; Brother Vellies bag and sandals.

Style icons, one past, one present?

Cher in her Sonny and Cher days. Caroline De Maigret for present day.

If you weren't a designer what would you be?

A lawyer, or a gardener. Possibly/probably both.

Hair and makeup philosophy?

Keep it simple and just try to feel like your best self-every day. Never do anything during the daytime that would make you look totally insane if you suddenly found yourself hiking.

Are you a closet editor or builder?

Builder. Always building. Make a strong foundation and build up from there.

Special Thanks: AP Cafe.

Source: harpersbazaar.com

Karn Malhotra at Lakmé Fashion Week summer/resort 2016

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 06:36:00 +0000

Karn Malhotra at Lakmé Fashion Week summer/resort 2016.

Originally based out of Toronto, Canada the designer founded the label Karn Malhotra in the year 2010 catering to a small but significant clientele for bespoke garments as well as select styling assignments. In 2012, in order to further the label’s growth, while simultaneously targeting a new audience, the move to designer’s hometown, Mumbai, was initiated.

In its early stages, the label positioned itself as an exclusive luxury apparel design studio for women specializing in couture gowns and evening wear. However, the label has also entered the Pret market after the successful launch of its day/evening wear collection at the India Beach Fashion Week (IBFW) held in February 2015 in Goa, India.

The Label’s design philosophy is simple: ‘wear your attitude’. In the designer’s own words, “each of our creation is a lifestyle statement, a choice of self-expression and not just an outfit, it’s the way you choose to be seen and perceived it’s for this reason we are in the business of creating complete looks not just outfits. In my opinion there is not an ideal age group or body type that can wear my clothes I have something for everyone but most importantly you have to trust my vision and be ready to quit the safe zone for something more fun, edgy and yet chic.”

The Label presently houses its 2 floored workshop in Goregaon West, Mumbai and is in the process of launching an online store shortly this year for an exclusive retail presence

Source: vogue.in, lakmefashionweek.co.in

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s trick to looking great on the red carpet takes 1 minute

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 06:26:00 +0000

She’s been called ‘the most beautiful woman in the world’ more times than she can count, but of all her monikers—from Miss World to mom—it is the latter that makes her feel most beautiful. How does she manage to look stunning all the time? Her rule is to keep it simple. Read on to find out more:

Beauty philosophyI have always been understated yet elegant—it’s important to not lose your personality in the name of fashion or beauty and it’s very important for me to be comfortable. Fashion and make-up is like art—I have fun with it. There’s also a whole team of professionals involved, like the stylists, hairdressers, make-up artists and designers. But the bottom line for me is that I don’t lose my personality and I stay comfortable.

Mom’s the wordThe beauty advice I would pass on to my daughter is simple—always drink a lot of water, nourish your skin and hair with vitamin-rich food and keep it simple. I think the biggest learning I can give her is to be at peace with herself and be happy—that will make her a naturally beautiful human being, inside and out.

Get-glamorous tipRed lips have the power to attract everyone’s attention and make you feel red-carpet-ready instantly. Also, walk with confidence and flash a 1,000-watt smile—it will always make you feel glamorous.

Signature lookFor the day, I am partial to lip colours in shades of nude, pink, peach, beige and earthy brown with mascara to highlight the eyes. For a night out, I normally opt for light shimmery shades for the lips and smoky eyes. I don’t have a signature look for the red carpet either. My team and I look to do something different each time, although my favourite is winged eyes matched with bold red lips—my signature red from the L’Oréal Paris Pure Reds Collection, Lincoln Rose, looks great with most of my red carpet looks.

Mane intentionHow I wear my hair de pends on my mood, the occasion and what I am wearing. I’m not fussy about wearing it a certain way—I  like experimenting. I do feel  it’s extremely important to nourish and oil your hair regularly, and essential oils are  my biggest indulgence. It’s also really important to eat healthy, as what you eat has a direct impact on your skin and hair.

Body beautifulI believe that every woman should be comfortable in her own skin—I wouldn’t want to change anything about my body.

Vanity caseI always carry my signature lipstick from the L’Oréal Paris La Vie En Rose Collection—Aishwarya’s Delicate Pink. It’s a lovely creamy matte lipstick that’s perfect for the day or an evening out. To play up my eyes I use a volumising mascara and, thanks to my genes, I am blessed with great skin. But on days that I feel I need to even it out, I use the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Liquid Foundation.

Heaven scentMy all-time favourite fragrance is Clinique Happy.

Beauty iconsI’ve always admired Jane Fonda for her grace and warmth and I love how Eva Longoria keeps experimenting with her looks and manages to dazzle everyone. Both these women are complete stunners. I learn something new from them every time we meet and I love them both to the moon and back.

Source: vogue.in

Fall 2016 Jewelry Trend: The Right Angle

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 06:18:00 +0000

Ron Hami's multiband 14-karat gold ring with diamonds; pasquale bruni's 18-karat gold ring with diamonds; Cadar's 18-karat gold ring with diamonds; Efva Attling's 18-karat gold earrings with diamonds.

Antonini's 18-karat gold and diamond cuff and Stephen Webster's 18-karat white gold and pavé diamond collar with detachable feather.

FROM LEFT: Paige Novick's Three Row Cuff in 18k yellow gold with white diamonds; Mania Zamani's 18-karat yellow gold ring with diamonds; Dana Rebecca Designs' 14-karat rose gold ring with diamonds; Mimi so's diamond rings in 18-karat yellow, white and rose gold; Tejen's 18-karat gold earrings with diamonds; Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry's 18-karat rose gold earrings with black and white diamonds.

FROM LEFT: Deborah Pagani's 18-karat white gold pendant with diamonds and sapphires and hearts on Fire's 18-karat white gold and diamond ring.

Messika Paris' diamond earrings in 18-karat pink gold; John Hardy's sterling silver necklace and Roberto Coin's diamond bangle in 18-karat rose and white gold.

Roule & Co.'s bangle in blackened 18-karat white gold with sapphires; Lynn Ban's black rhodium and gilver earrings with colored sapphires and 14-karat white gold clip; Yossi Harari's rings in oxided gilver with rubies and black diamonds (top) and white and black diamonds (below).

Eva Fehren's 18 karat rose gold necklace; Selim Mouzannar's 18 karat pink gold bracelet with diamonds and tanzanite stone; 1884 Collection's 18K yellow gold earrings with diamond and bronze coins.

Qayten's ring in white gold with diamonds and blue tanzanite stone; Hueb's earrings in 18-karart white gold with diamonds.

Source: wwd.com

Burberry one and only menswear standalone store

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 24 May 2012 10:50:00 +0000

Burberry standalone store

Burberry have announced it will open a menswear standalone boutique. The company has seen strong menswear sales, which played a key role in its profit growth in the past year. Demand for Burberry's menswear collections triggered “a significant growth opportunity” and the company said new initiatives such as tailoring, range intensification, retail merchandising and increasing men’s only marketing all contributed to the performance with menswear sales growing by 26%.

The first men's standalone boutique is expected to open in Knightsbridge later this year, and chief executive officer Angela Ahrendts commented it could be “the beginning of a brilliant new concept”.

Burberry is further planning to open its biggest ever store on London’s Regent Street later this year. Although the brand has refused to give an exact date Ahrendts, the store is expected to open in late summer or early autumn to be Burberry's “most digitally advanced store in the world.”

Burberry saw revenue rise nearly 25% to £1.86bn in the year to March 31 while adjusted profit before tax rose 26% during the period to £376m.

Image: Burberry

Source: fashionunited.co.uk

Sophie Dahl slams fashion designers for forcing models into 'children's clothes'

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 24 May 2012 10:39:00 +0000

The media world is often blamed for fuelling the fashion industry's obsession with ultra-thin men and women.

But now Sophie Dahl, previously one of the world's most famous plus-size beauties, has slammed designers for encouraging the size-zero look.

The 34-year-old mother-of-one said that many models have no choice but to be thin because the items supplied by fashion labels for editorial or catwalk assignments are the equivalent of 'children's clothes'.

The granddaughter of Roald Dahl revealed that often 'sample' wares are several sizes smaller than shop versions.

Speaking at the Words in the Park literary festival in London, where she was promoting her new cookery book From Season to Season, she said: 'The small sample thing is ridiculous.

'They are too small.

'They are like children's clothes.'

The editors of Vogue magazine recently agreed to a pact where they they will only work with 'healthy' models to encourage a healthier approach to body image.

In 2009 UK editor of Vogue magazine, Alexandra Shulman, agreed that sample sizes were often too small for many models to wear and that she was frustrated that the industry hadn't acted.

'Nothing has changed monumentally about sample sizes and I am disappointed as it would be a good starting point,' she said.

Dahl, was discovered by Vogue stylist Isabella Blow, in 1995 and has since appeared in campaigns for brands including Versace, Alexander McQueen, and Pringle.

Despite receiving dieting tips from Blow, she gained weight during the early years of her modelling career.However during her twenties she noticeably slimmed down.

Dahl, who is married to musician Jamie Cullum, has since written a number of books and has also branched out into cookery writing and television presenting.

A recent study by Canadian researcher Ben Barry found that women are more than twice as likely to purchase clothing when it is modelled by a woman who is the same size as them.

He claimed female 'purchase intentions' increase by more than 200 per cent when a brand's ad campaign features a model who is reflective of themselves.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

No Fashion - No Models but Nice story must read it !!!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:38:00 +0000

Sorry for Interruption friends. Here I posted a really very good story. Pls read it and pass this link to your all friends. It’s really very good story…
This story is related to 1 Boy and his

My mother had only one eye,

I hated her as I was ashamed of her

She was a cook in the school cafeteria where I studied.

One day, when I saw still in a primary class,

She came to visit me to see for herself that I was all right.

I was very upset, how dare she do this to me?

After that incident I ignored her & looked on her

Only with hateful eyes….

The next day, a fellow-student told me,

“oohhh, your mother has only one eye!”

At that moment, I wanted to crawl under the floor

And that my mother would be out of my life completely.

The next day I went to meet her & to tell here:

“ because of you I am the joke at school,

Why don’t you die and go away!?

But, she did not respond….

I wasn’t thinking and did not know what I was saying,

I was very angry.

I could not imagine

How she would react to my remarks.

And, I left town.

I studied relentlessly and obtained a scholarship

to continue my studies abroad.

In fact, I completed my studies, got married, bought a house and set up my family.

I lived a happy and a peaceful life.

One day, my mother comes to visit me.

It has been many years since she had disappeared,

She had never met here grand-children.

She remained at the doorstep

While my children were making fun of her

I shouted at her: “ How date you come all the way here and frighten my kids?!

With a calm voice she responded:

“I apologize, I am at the wrong address.”

And she disappeared.

One day, I received an invitation from my hometown school to attend a reunion under the “ close family ties “ topic

I lied to my wife and made her believe that

I was traveling for business.

After the reunion I stopped by the house

where I grew up

The neighbours informed me that

my mother had passed away.

I did not shed even one drop of tear!!!

The neighbor handed me a letter

that my mother had left for me

“My Dear son, I always thought of you.”

I regret having visited you abroad

And frightened your kids

…I was very pleased when I heard that

you would come to attend the reunion

…The only thing was that I could not get up

from my bed to come and see you….

… I am broken-hearted that I brought

shame to you on numerous occasions…

…Did you know that when you were a baby

you had an accident and lost your one eye?...

… and, as any other mother would,

I would not let you grow up with only one eye….

So. I gave you my eye……..

I was very proud and happy to know that my son would be able to see the world with my eye

… with all my love…

…Your mother….

End...

Please don’t forget to post the comment… Thank You….

Sexy dresses take it to the maxi this summer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:27:00 +0000

Some leftover notes to dispose of before we get to the meat of this week’s column. First, it seems like every second store is capitalizing on the move to cloth bags by selling their own. The upside: they’re cheap. The downside: the logo. Shouldn’t they be paying us to be walking billboards? The best one around in terms of style and minimal corporate content is the 99-cent carry bag sold at Sears (various locations), in a black-on-ecru filigree design.

Next, a reminder about Zara (1056 Robson Street and Metropolis at Metrotown), specifically how gorgeously this Spain-based chain has captured summer’s floral vibe with floaty tops and dresses awash with soft-focus Monet-type flowers. Something else to watch out for—Holt Renfrew (737 Dunsmuir Street) stocks the Kate Moss Topshop collection, familiar to anyone who follows Brit fashion; also, its Contemporary department has picked up on a trend that rampaged across Europe last summer and appears set for another go-around.

I’m talking about the maxi dress. Hats in the air because, for the first time in several seasons, there’s a genuinely new silhouette out there. Everything else—minis, cropped pants, frocks, shorts, gypsy skirts—is pretty much a retread. But ankle-length dresses? Those haven’t ambled down Vancouver sidewalks since 4th Avenue was a byword for head shops.

Don’t get me wrong. The new maxis aren’t line-for-line copies of the Summer of Love wear inspired by everything from Pre-Raphaelite art to idealized shepherdesses. These have a sleek, noncostumey look with styles highlighting bare shoulders, V-necks, and the Empire cut. But beyond these common denominators, there’s enough variety that, unless you cringe at the thought of wearing anything long and flowing, you’ll easily find a style to tickle your ankles.

For maxis at their most luxurious, check out the Diane von Furstenberg examples at Holt Renfrew. One dress in a sensuous modal-silk blend in turquoise blue features wide, asymmetrical bands of yellow and pink at the hem ($285)—not pale pastels but bold colours that look best in the sunlight. Another by the New York designer is made of silk that’s colour-blocked in tropical shades of pink, green, and turquoise, and is held up by bronze cords that tie behind the neck and end in bronze and wood beads ($485). The Tart label is stitched to a sweet but not sugary maxi dress with the requisite V-shaped neckline and Empire styling, its fabric patterned with roses outlined in navy on a grey background ($310). From T-Bags, another California-based label, comes a maxi in a purple, olive, and orange art deco–inspired geometric print ($250); most maxis around are sleeveless, but this one has shoulders that widen to form little sleeves.

Showcasing black poly-spandex patterned with tan flowers ($295) and styling it with spaghetti straps and a tiered skirt, RozeMerie Cuevas of JC Studio (46 West 6th Avenue) is one of the few local designers to include a maxi in her spring collection. She loves them, she says, for their ease and comfort. Over at Bebe (various locations), long dresses revive the tiered skirt that’s been around for at least three years now, except that these fall to the ground. A one-shouldered version has a deep white ruffle framing its neckline and descending in a series of progressively darker black-and-white leopard prints ($206). Another, also tiered but this time in a black-and-white abstract print, has a black belt outlined in white under the bust, adding graphic edge ($171). Zara combines three different small-scale, black-and-white prints for the bra-shaped top, torso, and deep hem of a maxi dress ($69.90). Punch up the look of any of these with a vivid yellow or lime purse or sandals.

Plum Clothing (various locations) sells a couple of possibilities that let you sample the trend without flaming your credit card. One in a swirly fuchsia, grey, and black print has the requisite V-neck and high waist ($59); the other, printed with what look like patches of blue bandanas, fastens behind the neck ($69). Spank (various locations) carries a fluttery light cotton dress by Nymph ($89) in an emerald butterfly print, with ties at the neck and under the bust, as well as the most casual example yet: a fuchsia button-through, large-pocketed maxi by Fili & Grane ($59).

Ankle-grazing dresses have traditionally meant formal, grad, or bridal. But schlepping along the Drive or hanging out at a sidewalk café? You bet. Anyone who snapped up the longish tiered skirt of a couple of summers ago knows that sensual feel of fabric swishing like surf around your legs on a hot August night. Easy to wear? Slide it over your head, and you’re instantly maxi-dressed.

Just remember to keep the look casual with low-key accessories. Skip delicate silver and Swarovski crystals in favour of gutsy wood bangles or a string of marble-sized beads. Then all you have to do is slide your feet into flip-flops, ballet flats, or sandals, and you’re good to go.

Source: straight.com

Fashion designers to set up shop inside Amber Fort

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:23:00 +0000

Cleaned of its cobwebs and sans the bats after massive restoration, the 16th-century Amber Fort is soon going to be a hub for avant garde haute couture. Several fashion designers of global repute have signed up with the Amber Development Authority (ADA) for setting up their boutiques in the fort premises by August this year bring-ing pret-a-porter to Jaipur.

The Amber Development Authority for the last two years has chipped in immense efforts to restore the fort that had begun crumbling at various places. Now renovated, the fort houses an art gallery spread over 5,000 sq ft and an enclosure dedicated to artisans paving the way for a more viable adaptive reuse of heritage sites. In the present context world over, heritage sites are being put to contemporary use. This would lend a new dimension to the Amber Fort, a tourist destination, said S Ahmed, CEO of ADA.

"I am excited. Heritage sites world over are reactive where tourists get an opportunity to experience products in an ambiance rarely available," said Ritu Kumar, the revivalist fashion designer in the Indian fashion industry. Having successfully bridged the gap between traditionalism and modernity in her designs, Ritu is looking forward to showcasing her line for which a meticulously worked-out plan is already in place. "I am going to be working on a lot of cottons, lehriya and bandhej. A special range of scarves are being designed around the fort and I plan to weave in the essence of the maharajas into exotic pagris and leather accessories," said Ritu.

Besotted by Rajasthan, this would be the first locale for several fashion designers to showcase their lines. Few other designers that would display their creations in the fort are Tarun Tahiliani, Rohit Bal, Muzzafar Ali, JJ Vallaya and Raghvendra Rathore, said Ahmed.

Meera Muzzafar Ali said, "The fort would form a perfect backdrop to showcase the designer labels. Targeting the forthcoming tourist season, I will launch the signature Kotwara style, something new for the tourists that would be global in look, not very expensive, well styled and wearable internationally. As Jaipur is a textile hub, most designers plan to source a large part of their range of dyed and block printed fabric from Sanganer and Bagru."

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Kiwi fashion designers boost Canadian heritage

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:21:00 +0000

Here's a new concept that hasn't been tried before - a fashion line inspired by Canada's heritage and legends, that locals would actually want to wear.

Most Canadians wouldn't be caught dead in one of the typical tourist shirts. "That inspired us to create designs that were subtle, fashionable and about local themes like the Vancouver's Woodwards building or Stanley Park that locals could wear," says Ningnong co-owner Wynne Pirini. "Incredibly, this concept has been untouched so far!"

Ningnong's clothing has caught on fast, with stores all over Vancouver, including 'the Bay', stocking up on the local-themed fashions. Ningnong is currently working on expanding their fashion lines to Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta.

The kicker is that Pirini and co-founder Lauren McKee aren't even from Canada; they arrived early last year from New Zealand after touring through Southeast Asia.

But these on-the-go entrepreneurs aren't just in town on business; Pirini is on a quest to rediscover his Canadian heritage. "I've wanted to come to Canada for so long. My grandmother was from Winnipeg. She met my Kiwi grandfather while he was training in Canada to be a pilot in the Second World War. They moved back to New Zealand to start a family."

Canadian relatives who visited New Zealand brought photos of beautiful BC. Pirini realized that he had to come to Canada to connect with his roots and rediscover his Canadian heritage.

Source: newswire.ca

Aussi designers to unveil collection '09 at New Zealand Fashion Week

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:08:00 +0000

For the first time ever Air New Zealand Fashion Week will say “G’day” and open up the runway to Australian fashion designers. A number of Australia’s leading and up and coming designers will be shoulder tapped by New Zealand Fashion Week ambassadors and invited to show their latest designs as part of the Air New Zealand Fashion Week Autumn/Winter collections 2009.

“We’re really thrilled to be able to invite Australian designers to show at Air New Zealand Fashion Week 2008 and we hope this move will further strengthen Trans-Tasman relationships within the Fashion Industry.

We now see many New Zealand designers successfully showing at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, so we hope this new initiative will support our Australian counterparts to achieve the same successes,” says Pieter Stewart.

A large number of Kiwi designers are already exporting their fashion collections to Australia and rely on RAFW to showcase their designs to buyers and media.

Australian fashion exports now account for nearly 80% of all New Zealand fashion exports, and event organizers hope that Australian designers will recognize the same opportunity from the other side of the ditch, to grow their business and explore New Zealand as a new and exciting market.

“We’ve been showing at Australian Fashion Week for several years along with a number of New Zealand designers, so it seems only right that we would invite Australian designers to show in New Zealand.

We’re really happy to have them here! And of course Air NZ Fashion Week is not just a designer event but also vitally important for buyers, so more variety will spice up the week and raise standards all round,” says Neville Findlay, Founder of Zambesi.

Now in its eight year running, Air New Zealand Fashion Week last year showcased 74 New Zealand designer collections and the big week attracted more than 800 national and international buyers and media.

In addition there were approximately 20,000 other invited guests over the four days. This year with the inclusion of Australian designers, event organizers hope to generate heightened interest from buyers, media and delegates alike.

Air New Zealand Fashion Week Directors Pieter Stewart and Myken Stewart recently spent time at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week where they were warmly received by a number of Australian designers.

Air New Zealand Fashion Week applications close to designers on June 7th. The Event Selection panel will conduct the selection process through June and July with all designers announced on July 23rd.

Air New Zealand Fashion Week 2008 dates:
• Fashion Trade Days - Tuesday September 16th until Thursday September 19th
• Fashion Weekend (Public Days) - Friday September 20th and Saturday September 21st

Source: Fibre2fashion.com

Coca-Cola Light ACCRA FASHION WEEK 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:29:00 +0000

Your Style. Your Way. Sheer glitz and grandeur will rule as the capital is caught in the glitzy grip of the 2008 edition of Accra Fashion Week starting from the 1st of July at the plush La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.

Accra Fashion Week is a trade and life-style event for businesses engaged in fashion an focused on fashion of Ghanaian origin.

AFW is primed to provide an unprecedented platform for Ghana's finest designers and aspiring designers to showcase their collections to thousands of fashion aficionados, fashion industry consultants and VIP's.

Fashion gives people the forum to be unrestrained, express themselves, have fun, let loose and go wild. The 2008 edition of AFW creative campaign be unrestrained, express themselves, have fun, let loose and go wild. Likewise, animals don't follow social norms. They are uninhibited.

The 2008 AFW creative campaign will therefore go 'Your Style. Your Way'. This campaign is design-based and has energy unlike anything out there. The creative execution for AFW speaks to the events youthfulness and vibrancy and it encourages fashion lovers to express themselves in any and every way possible.

Source: accrafashionweek.com

Behind the Seams: The Academy of Art University Fashion Show

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:25:00 +0000

We're always looking for a fashion fix in our lovely city of San Francisco. We just attended the Academy of Art University 2008 fashion show, which celebrated the blood, sweat, and tears the fashion students have endured at the Academy. The event brought out a mixed crowd of students, SF socialites, local press, and noted fashion designers, John Galanos and Ralph Ricci. I was quite impressed with the promising young talents and the collections were not too shabby.

To read more about the Academy of Art University fashion show and to see more runway pics, read more.

The show consisted of 17 collections from some of the top fashion students in the school with individual themes for each collection. My favorites were Ronnie Escalante Jr. and Alyssa Prentice (picture 1 and 2 above), who displayed utmost originality and beauty in their designs. Ronnie's collection was filled with decadent gowns fit for the red carpet and Alyssa's modern-lux creations left us wanting more. We weren't the only ones that felt that way because they were awarded a prestigious internship with Ralph Ricci — congrats!

The men's collections were another highlight. The designs were fun, modern, and I loved the amazing leather jackets!

All together, the show was a lot of fun and it was refreshing to see new talent on the rise. I also got a chance to see America's Next Top Model alums Chantal and Eugenia looking Fab and strutting their stuff on the runway.

Source: fabsugar.com

Hotel Bondi Swimwear collection launched at Australia Fashion Week

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:08:00 +0000

The Hotel Bondi Swimwear collection has launched at Australia Fashion Week, cementing the importance of beachside attire in a multi-billion dollar industry.

More than two dozen half naked Bondi babes strutted down the catwalk today during one of the week's most-hyped events.

But for the designers and buyers in attendance, it wasn’t just about the beautiful bikinis and the women wearing them — it was also about the dollars.

Australia Fashion Week founder Simon Lock said the event was more than an opportunity to see beautiful clothes and sip champagne.

"At the core of this event this is basically a trade event, the most glamorous, sophisticated and sexy trade event you'll ever come across," Mr Lock said.

"We're hoping that this year our export sales will be in the order of $250 million. It's quite a significant contribution."

More than 150 designers have flown in from overseas for the week to see more than 100 designers showcase their collections on the catwalk.

Some notable international buyers include teams from Barney’s New York, Harrods and Lane Crawford in Hong Kong.

The Hotel Bondi collection is the work of designer Damion Fuller, who says the brand has come to represent everything there is about the famous beach.

"We have a very simple message, we love bikinis and we love Bondi. All of our prints you saw today, every print has a different Bondi story," Mr Fuller said.

Fuller shrugged off the stereotypical image of a Bondi babe with blonde hair and blue eyes.

"A typical Bondi girl, she's Japanese, she's Brazilian, English, she's everything. Thanks to the eclectic nature of Bondi she's both completely international and totally unique," he said.

Source: ninemsn.com.au

Darling of Fashion Week

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:05:00 +0000

SHE was the darling of Australian Fashion Week in 2000 and 2001. Now, after a seven-year hiatus, Michelle Jank is back to present her spring/summer collection, Suspending Disbelief, at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week.

Jank, 31, lives in Paris these days. She will send 20 "looks" plus pieces of her bespoke jewellery down the runway today in what promises to be more that just a frock show.

"All I will say is that it will be a mishmash of very interesting things … it's a reflection of what I love in life."

Since her last off-schedule show in Sydney in 2003, the Perth native has been travelling the globe.

Last year she worked with fashion designers in India, and the draping technique used in creating her garments reflects saris, she said.

"Indian women are so beautiful and they really embrace their femininity in the way they dress. At times it was like watching all of these colourful ghosts float by in their fluorescent saris. The collection is very different from my first - but that is normal as a creative person to move in a different direction."

Jank says the timing of her catwalk comeback is connected with the European success of her jewellery designs, which are available at Colette in Paris and Harrods, Liberty, Browns and Dover Street Market in London.

She has been commissioned to make pieces for a luxury fragrance advertising campaign but won't say more because of confidentiality agreements. But she's happy to reveal that interest in Australian fashion is growing with the success of our models overseas. One of them, Chic Management's Stephanie Carta, 23, will be on the catwalk for Jank next week.

Source: brisbanetimes.com.au

Beat the heat in cool clothes

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:16:00 +0000

Fitness freaks who plan to sweat it out in the hot Indian summer would do well to wear skin friendly fabrics like cotton, say experts.

"Cotton is a natural fibre and has less allergic tendencies. It is best suited for people who have sensitive skin and hence are prone to skin irritation," said Hema Pant, dermatologist, Kaya Skin Clinic, a skincare solutions centre.

Even though cotton is widely available in India and has its advantages, other materials like synthetic, dri-fit and polyester have gradually built a market for themselves.

Ashish Dhir, India representative for the Cotton Council International, said dri-fit is made of polyester treated with moisture absorbing technology.

"Polyester is not known for managing moisture very well and so it is mostly treated to provide moisture absorbing capabilities. Today it is used over cotton as it is cheaper as a raw material and also lightweight," he said.

Pointing out the disadvantages of such fabrics, Pant said: "These materials trap sweat inside the body. This is not wise for people who have sweat related problems like dermatitis and prickly heat, as excessive perspiration can aggravate the problem".

Whether it is for competitions or for regular workout routines, athletes and fitness freaks need clothing that keeps them cool and dry.

"Dri-fit material is essentially a poly-micro-fibre which doesn't cling to the skin and enables it to breathe better. The fabric is designed to soak sweat which leads to better moisture management," Sanjay Gangopadhyay, marketing director, Nike, a sportswear brand, told IANS.

Gangopadhyay further explained that the apparel made from this fabric is extremely lightweight so that the person wearing it does not carry additional weight.

Fashion designer Charu Parashar said that other fabrics are preferred over cotton due to the perfect fit offered by them.

"While gymming, people look for fabrics which fit them well. Lycra as a fabric gives stretchability, which is loved by health freaks. Hardly anyone wears lose fitting clothes while exercising," she said.

Fashion designer Bobby Grover seconded Parashar. He said: "Such fabrics definitely offer better fitting and I would wear a synthetic track pant with a cotton T-shirt while exercising."

Source: hindustantimes.com

Stars Shine at Andre Kim's Shanghai Show

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:08:00 +0000

Korean stars Lee Da-hae, Kim Jung-hoon and Jang Geun-suk added a touch of star power to top designer Andre Kim's fashion show here Tuesday.

Kim presented his 2009 spring/summer fashion collection during the opening of the Korean textile and apparel trade show "Preview in Shanghai 2008" at Shanghai Mart.

Hallyu, or the Korean wave, seems to be alive and kicking in this exciting Chinese city, as the audience eagerly awaited the appearance of Korean celebrities at Kim's show.

Cameras flashed in the hall as Lee, who appeared in several hit dramas like "My Girl," and Kim, best known for his role in the MBC drama "Princess Hours" (Gung), hit the runway wearing Kim's unique designs.

Jang is one of the hottest young actors in Korea, having appeared in recent dramas like ``Hwangjinyi” and ``Sharp Blade of Hong Gil-dong.” Dozens of Chinese fans waited for him to arrive at the airport.

Kim's fashion art collection was once again well received in Shanghai. His elaborately detailed gowns showed inspiration from the rich culture, art and history of China, as well as Korean culture.

The audience was captivated throughout the show, which had five sections such as ``Beijing Festival” and ``Chinese Legend.” The spring/summer collection's color palette featured purple, orange, green, blue, yellow, red and pink, as well as metallic shades of gold and silver.

Kim showed his unique vision for modern-day Korean royalty through the ``Fantasy of Korean Palace” stage. Lee and Kim ― who played a prince in ``Princess Hours” ― looked like a modern-day royal couple in matching Oriental-inspired robes with golden dragon embroidery.

There were some melodramatic moments on stage. Lee and Jang appeared to play star-crossed lovers who were going to offer each other a tearful goodbye, much to the delight of the audience.

The final stage, ``My Everlasting Love,” featured Kim's exquisitely detailed romantic wedding gowns. For the finale, Lee was breathtaking in an embroidered and jeweled wedding gown, accompanied by Kim, who wore a white suit.

After the show, Kim and his celebrity-models held a press conference attended by dozens of Korean and Chinese media. The fashion show was also meant to celebrate Beijing's hosting the Olympics in August this year. This is Kim's 11th fashion show in China, having staged star-studded shows in Beijing and Shanghai in the past few years.

Preview in Shanghai is an annual event organized by the Korea Federation of Textile Industries (KOFOTI). In a press conference, KOFOTI chairman Ro Hee-chan said the event is aimed at increasing cooperation between Korean and Chinese textile companies.

The three-day event, which ends Thursday, also features fashion shows by brands Pro Specs, EXR Korea, Indibuni, Arte, Morine Comte Marant, Joinus and Tomboy. There are also seminars on spring/summer fashion trends, fashion brand value strategy and strategies on how to advance in the Chinese market.

Ro said since Preview in Shanghai was first held in 2003, Korean brands have made inroads into the Chinese market. This year, there are 120 textile companies and fashion brands participating, slightly fewer than the 130 companies that participated in 2007.

Much of the Korean brands' success in China is attributed to hallyu. Many brands use Korean star power through product placement in Korean dramas, movies and music.

Thanks to Korean stars' popularity among Chinese audiences, Korean brands have also become popular. Incidentally, hallyu is a term that originated in China and used to describe the popularity of Korean stars, dramas, movies and pop music outside Korea.

Source: koreatimes.co.kr

Designer's styles reflect first nations teachings

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:03:00 +0000

Your clothing reflects your lifestyle, says a first nations designer who has created custom designs for royalty, celebrities -- and plenty of regular folks.

"It reflects what's important to you -- your own personal values," says Regina designer Tracey George Heese, who designs under the Timeless Shadows label.

Traditional and contemporary first nations apparel appeals to first nations and non-aboriginals alike.

"It doesn't matter what background you come from," Heese insists.

"The teachings of first nations have to do with harmony and balance. And I really believe that regardless of your nationality, you can reflect that within the clothing that you're wearing."

There's definitely a market for first nations fashion designs, says Heese.

"I believe so. Now that it has become acceptable to be Indian, for one thing. The views of the greater society have improved. And I feel that the clothing has played a role in bringing about that awareness."

There's a huge international market as well, especially in the United States, Germany and Japan, she points out.

Heese is so confident demand for first nations apparel will continue to grow, she plans to work on her master's degree on a topic related to first nations clothing and identity.

Heese currently works full time as a group facilitator for Regina Work Preparation, a non-profit organization helping individuals either find work, go back to school, or get into a program. So for now, creating custom designs is done in her "spare" time. But eventually, Heese says her goal is to transform her design work into a full-time job.

Heese's passion for creating first nations apparel began as a child.

"My grandmother was a beader, and she did moccasins, and outfits, and jewelry, and all kinds of stuff. And she got me stringing beads. I was probably two years old stringing beads -- sitting beside her when she was doing moccasins," she recalls. "So that's where that part -- the desire to bead and design -- comes from."

Heese has been sewing for 28 years.

"It was my mother and my older sister that taught me how to use a sewing machine," she says.

"I really believe that it was my grandmother and the support of my adopted family that has in many ways given me this, with regards to the business designing. They taught me a skill," Heese says. "And I think it's a God-given talent; but I've had to work at it."

She started designing powwow regalia about 14 years ago.

"And that was, in many ways, a reconnection to my heritage -- finding out more about individuals and their colours, their Indian names, their symbols of protection -- that kind of thing, and implementing or including those things into whatever it was I was designing for them. That became my path back to my own personal heritage as well," she says.

Over the years, Heese says about 95 per cent of the first nations apparel/regalia she's designed has been men's ribbon shirts, which range in price from $150 to $250.

"I've lost count as to how many I've done in the last 14 years. I'm sure it's over 500," she estimates.

"And they're all individual. That's the other thing. A lot of the stuff that I love doing is for a specific person for a specific purpose. So, it may be a grad, and it's this young girl and this young guy. Or, it's this gentleman who has this sort of ceremony coming up, and he needs this garment. And then I go to work."

When creating a man's ribbon shirt, it takes her five to seven hours to sew the base of the shirt.

"I may not be a fast sewer, but part of it has to do with making sure that it's right," Heese says, describing herself as a tailor. "There's so much involved."

Knowing the wearer's Indian name and his colours helps Heese decide what fabric to buy.

"And so I go out and buy three metres of that fabric," she says.

She described the creative process: "I first pray. Then I visualize what it is that he's told me [about himself]. And then I begin. Sometimes I'll sketch it out and other times I just go to work. It depends on what it is."

It's crucial to be in the right frame of mind when working on a design, Heese says.

"I really believe that my thoughts and my words go into that garment. So when I'm working on it, I can't be drinking; I can't be grouchy -- because I feel that goes into the garment," she explains.

Every garment has a message, Heese says. "And it reflects the individual."

For women, Heese is best known for her shawls, which range from $300 to $500. One of her shawls was presented to Princess Anne, another to then lieutenant-governor Lynda Haverstock.

Creating a woman's shawl is much like designing a man's ribbon shirt, Heese says.

"I think of the individual. I pray about it. I generally will smudge all the materials from the scissors to the space that I'm in creating that garment," she says.

Inspiration can come from the individual or from the materials being used.

"It shows itself to me, and I see that's what I'm supposed to make," Heese says.

For shawls, she uses ribbons, shells, fringe, applique work, and bead work.

Her ribbon shirts have featured everything from hide to elk teeth, porcupine quills, horse hair, shells, bone beads, beads, ribbons and fringe.

At this point, Heese says she can still work with all colours.

"Some people have found that black is a difficult colour to work with, depending on which tribe you're from," she explains. " I happen to be Cree, and in the Cree culture, black many times can represent death. And that's why some women have a difficult time working with it. But I've also been taught black means 'night' and black also means 'victory.' "

For Heese, coming up with the design is the most enjoyable part of the creative process. Actually putting the garment together is the most difficult, she says.

"Staying true to the vision that I have in my head or on paper, that's the most difficult."

Source: Canada.com

IIFA unveils fashion wear

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:47:00 +0000

Movie buffs can now wear outfits similar to those worn by their favourite stars on screen through a new clothesline unveiled by the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) in association with fashion retail brand BIBA.

'IIFA Bling', the brand, is an exclusive premium fashion line which will reflect the trends and styles influenced by the Indian film industry.

"The brand is a wonderful way for movie fans to experience stardom. While IIFA is providing a platform, BIBA is providing a distribution network," Sabas Joseph, director, Wizcraft International Entertainment Ltd. (the organisers of IIFA), said at the launch of the fashion line.

Leading fashion designer Vikram Phadnis has designed an exclusive collection for the brand whereas designer duo Renu Chopra and Bina Kapur along with Phadnis have put together their creativity for the Bhootnath range.

A sneak preview of both the lines took place at the launch. The collections included empire line and angarakha suits, one-piece dresses with thread work accentuated by gota, embroidery, sequins and mirror work.

"Vikram's clothes will range from Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000 and the Bhootnath collection will be priced between Rs 495 to Rs 5,000," said Siddharth Bindra, Managing Director, BIBA.

The IIFA Bling collection will be showcased at the IIFA Weekend 2008 in Bangkok and be available to a global audience. One exclusive IFFA Bling for BIBA store will be opened in Mumbai and Delhi each.

Source: NDTV Movies.com

NZ designers to make debut at Aussie Fashion Week

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:32:00 +0000

Alissa Serdoun - One of New Zealand most talented designers to make debut into Australian Fashion Week

One of New Zealand’s most talented young designers will feature on the catwalk at Australian Fashion Week in Sydney later this month.

Alissa Serdoun, who took part in New Zealand Fashion Week last year, will be one of four individual Kiwi designers, including Kate Silvester, in Sydney from April 28 to May 1.

It will be the first time Russian-born Serdoun has introduced her label to Australia.

"We feel we are one of the more stylishly sophisticated labels in New Zealand already and we are entering AFW to secure greater international recognition. Going to Australia’s biggest fashion show seems the logical step for us," Serdoun said today.

"Australian women who enter our shop always buy at least one garment from us and they have been very excited about discovering our label for themselves."

"Our market is women who want to feel feminine. Our greatest reward is seeing women try on our clothes and you can see the transformation in how they feel. We are unshamelessly at the cutting edge."

Serdoun has tripled its sales every year for the last three years. They are seen as expensive and an exclusive brand and they do not look at volume or discounts.

Alissa Serdoun said she believe there were no other brand quite like hers in New Zealand. It may sound ambitious ``but we like to compare ourselves with the top end designers’’, she said.

The AFW summer collection catwalks will be held at the International Passenger Terminal down on Circular Quay. Buyers from Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Russia, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and USA will attend the shows.

Stores including Harrods, Lane Crawford, net-a-porter.com, Selfridges, Urban Outfitters, and Villa Moda will be represented.

Source: Scoop.co.nz