MS. FABULOUS

NY FASHION WEEK: Vivienne Tam Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 19:05:15 PST

Rich colors of crimson, purple, brown and teal gave the Vivienne Tam collection a warm coziness this season. Known for incorporating Asian motifs into her work, the fall collection was more subtle in its influence.

There was a dragon embroidery, some scrolls and a diagonal neck finish for references to Eastern style. More striking, were the different scales of chevron patterns and ombre stripes. As was the big trend for Fall 2012, fur collars were a major part of this collection. For Vivienne Tam, they were often Mongolian lamb, dyed in complementary colors to the rich palette of the season.

Vivienne Tam is a designer I often buy for myself for their witty use of traditional images in pop colors. I am a fan of her colors, her silhouettes and especially her prints! I can't wait for this collection to hit the stores.

Spotted in the front row: Russell Simmons, Russell Kwong

Photos by David TW Leung

REEL Fashion at FIAF/MFIT - Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:31:36 PST

Tuesday evening, I watched the first of three film screenings of fashion documentaries by Loic Prigent. The director followed designer Marc Jacobs from New York, Asia and Paris to document his work process. The film showed the creative journey from embroidery to dying fabric, then bleaching the garment for a destroyed affect. It showed artisans all over the studio experimenting with pressing, washing, burning, tearing and steaming a flower to achieve just the right look.

I really enjoyed how the film captured the endless all-night work sessions and how much a collection is a team effort. It did not attempt to glamorize it and showed off the skills and dedication of his staff. The contrast between Marc Jacob's relaxed New York office and the much more formal French Louis Vuitton offices were an interesting observation on the culture gap.

I had the opportunity of working with Marc Jacobs briefly in the mid 1990's as an embroidery vendor. He was one of the fellow Parsons alumni who was remembered fondly by past teachers. He was always sweet, polite and funny. Since then, he has become an international celebrity that fashionistas swoon over. It's nice to see that despite the fame and the much bigger business that rides upon him, that his personality has barely changed.

Director Loic Prigent was available for a Q & A afterward. The film did not take itself or the fashion world too seriously. The subjects were able to view themselves in a bittersweet or humorous light. Mr. Prigent confirmed that the designer was indeed as nice off-camera as he was on. He recounted how Marc Jacobs teared up while watching the montage of himself calling upon his assistant Joseph. It made him realize how truly indispensable he truly was.

Coming up Thursday, the film will be "The Day Before: Prouenza Schouler" about the designers Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough. Q & A available after the screening as well with the director.

The Day Before: Proenza Schouler (2009) ~ Director: Loïc Prigent

Thursday, February 23, 6pm
Katie Murphy Amphitheatre

Fred P. Pomerantz Art and Design Center, first floor

Admission is FREE with RSVP here.

How to Rock Colored Denim for Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:42:52 PST

It’s all about color this spring. If you’re looking for upscale or laid back looks, bright hues are the quickest way to update your closet. If you’re looking for an edgier look, skinny, cropped jeans in a bold color pairs well with a lot of options.

I’m wearing Rock & Republic’s vivid blue skinny denim with their stud embellished tank top. I added a red raincoat for seasonal showers. I mirrored the tiny studs on the top with an over-sized gun metal cluster necklace. I topped my look with my Hubby's Italian wool hat and studded platform pumps.

Other ways to rock out this spring is to pair a lightweight knit tunic or bold print tank with white or red Hamburg Skinny Crop Jeans. Add a motorcycle jacket or trench for chillier days. Accessories like Bohemian headbands, fedora hat, dangling earrings or a statement necklace help to elevate the look from casual to high fashion.

Kohl's provided compensation to me as an incentive to blog about the Rock & Republic launch event. The opinions expressed herein are those of this author, and they have not been reviewed or approved by Kohl's in advance.

Photos by Adam Weinstein and Robert McConnell

Photographers Favorite - Zang Toi Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:47:07 PST

There is no designer more admired among the crew in the photographer's pit than Zang Toi. Most of the burly guys are just there to do a job, but once in a while, comes a show that they truly love creatively.

For his Fall 2012 show, he was again the favorite. The lighting was favorable, the models seasoned, the posh gowns filled the width of the runway in pure glamour. Zang Toi really knows how to make his clientele, his staff and us lowly photographers feel special. He makes socialites look gorgeous, he constantly praises his staff and he actually thought to provide the photographers with lunch before the show.

After taking us to Morocco last season, Mr. Toi took us to Gstaad this season. The color palette was simple, black, cream and red. A bright red, orange and fushia tile print looked rich and modern. The hair and makeup were classic 1940's Hollywood. Gowns were long and fitted with some dramatic flair at the hem. Some were embellished with embroidery, beading or sculpted shoulder details. Day wear included luxurious Loro Piana suits and coats. In the end, the guests stood up for another well earned standing ovation for the designer.

Spotted in the front row: Real Housewife of NY Ramona Singer, America's Next Top Model Eva Marcille

Photos by David TW Leung

Elegant Warmth at J. Mendel Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:41:24 PST

Fur was one of the biggest trends for Fall 2012 at NY fashion week. The family business of J. Mendel has been doing fur for five generations. For their runway show at Lincoln Center, Gilles Mendel presented a mix of chic evening wear and luxe fur dresses.

The evening looks were a mix of beaded art deco gowns or sexy dresses with strategic cut-outs. The fur pieces ranged from hip vests to sheared, tailored dresses or cozy coats. The color palette of this collection was warm, but basic. Lots of brown tones, mustard, dramatic black and classic ivory went down the runway.

I have a lot of friends who are against fur, and were not too happy with the abundance of it this season. While I am sympathetic to their views, I am not a vegetarian. There are native cultures that survive on the fur trade. There are very few companies where families are willing to continue on the tradition of their ancestors. How do you deny a family their legacy?

Photos by David T.W. Leung

SALES ALERT! Barney's Warehouse Sale, Krizia, Balenciaga, Alexander Wang, Chloe

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:09:13 PST

It's time to start shopping again!

What: This sale is infamous in shopping culture. The luxury retailer will have clothing, shoes and accessories for women, men and children for up to 75% off retail prices. Labels include Alexander Wang, Marc Jacobs, Rag & Bone, Lanvin, Theyskens Theory and Chloe to name a few.

When: February 16th to 26th: Feb 16th-17th: 8am to 9pm, Feb 18th-19th: 10am to 8pm, Feb 20th and 24th: 9am to 9pm, Feb 21st-23rd: 10am to 9pm, Feb 25th-26th: 9am to 8pm

Location: 255 W. 17th Street, NYC

What: Krizia, the Italian designer label is having its very first New York Warehouse Sale. Expect discounts of 70% to 90% off women’s clothing..

When: February 19th to 28th

Location: 446 W. 14th Street, NYC

What: Noir Jewelry is edgy and a favorite of celebs like Gwen Stefani, Sofia Vergara and Mila Kunis

When: February 23rd to 24th (10 AM-7 PM)

Location: 350 W 38th St, 5th floor between 8th & 9th Ave

What: Alessi 's Warehouse Sale. Shop 50% - 70% off uber-modern housewares.

When: 2/13 - 2/29; M-Sat (11-6), Sun (noon-6).

Location: 30 E. 60th St. near Madison Ave. or 130 Greene St.,

near Prince St

What: Balenciaga's "it" bags at an (almost) affordable price.

When: Tuesday February 21 at 10 AM

Where: 381 Fifth Avenue (between 35th and 36th street) 2nd floor

Luxe Dominatrix at Catherine Malandrino Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 19:56:52 PST

Catherine Malandrino has always dressed the take-charge kind of woman. For Fall 2012, the designer made it a bit more obvious with patent leather corsets and mane-like fur collars around the neck. The presentation at Eyebeam Studios in Chelsea was sexy. Beaded mesh mixed with embroidered leather and pailettes. Tailored seaming flattered the right curves on the body as did strategic cutouts.

The handbag of the day was a box-like lucite clutch. The purse came in a myriad of sparkly or quartz bodies with sides of clear plastic and contrast colors. The earring of choice was a series of dangled chains from a multi-hole ear cuff.

This label is one I love to shop from (even more with a sample sale) because it is clearly designed by a woman for women who live my lifestyle. There was a lot of black in different textures, with bright, right jewel tones of green, sapphire and fushia. Powerful women look great in this collection, and who doesn't appreciate that?

Spotted mingling: Gossip Girl's Kelly Rutherford

Socialyte Tastemakers Suite

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 19:31:38 PST

I just wanted to give thanks and a shout-out to the team behind Socialyte.Co's Blogger lounge last Sunday. In the rush of New York Fashion Week, running up and downtown, staying up all night to upload photos, etc. a fashion blogger can get wiped out.

Socialyte.Co is an organization that aims to bring brands and bloggers together. Brands know what tremendous influence bloggers have when it comes to fashion and shopping. Bloggers collaborating with brands on product design or advertising campaigns is mutually beneficial. Thus, the Tastemaker's Suite was born.

Tired bloggers were invited to sip cocktails from Don Q, or re-hydrate with Body Armor vitamin water. Snacks for the famished were provided. The stylists from Arrojo Studio were on hand to glamorize those of us who were disheveled from runway hopping, along with makeup artists from Ulta. I used DDF skincare eye cream to prop up the bags under my eyes.

Fun spring shoes were on hand from Chinese Laundry, ranging from metallic flats to floral printed platforms. One of my favorites, Rebecca Minkoff mini-macs were decorated with printed scarves. She just came off a fantastic Fall 2012 show at Lincoln Center. To accessorize, lovely trinkets from Bauble Bar and Seal Watches were there to dress up outfits.

Bloggers work hard at fashion week, and we're very appreciative when people notice :).

Regal Glamour at THEIA Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:09:43 PST

Strong, powerful women of mythology. Designer Don O'Neill has always looked to iconic female figures as muse. For his Fall 2012 collection (and first runway show), he went darker and more mysterious. Some in the audience called it the Morgana or Snow White's evil queen collection. What I saw were gowns that were luxuriously embellished and sexy.

Black and silver were the dominant colors, with some rich amethyst looks in between. Shoes were made by Q by Pascuale Fabrizio. Exquisite heels from Italy that were also delicately crafted. Beaded headpieces gave the evening wear their magical slant.

The makeup consisted of smoky, smoldering eyes. The hair was inspired by Athena, Goddess of weaving. It was pulled back into long ponytails, with long hair strands wrapped around and interwoven down the tail.

Theia is fast becoming the go-to favorite of celebrities for the red carpet. Most recently, Amber Riley of Glee at the NAACP awards and TONY winner Donna Murphy at the Drama League Awards wore his flattering gowns. Maybe they know that they can count on Don to make them look their best. Maybe the stars know that they sparkle like the Goddess of Light that inspires the collection. Either way, this is a label not to be missed!

Red Carpet Drama from Monique Lhuillier Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:38:54 PST

The Academy Awards are coming up next week. The fishtail hem has been the most prominent trend this awards season. Monique Lhuillier is a popular choice for celebrities looking to make an elegant impression.

For her Fall 2012 collection, there were plenty of options for the red carpet. My favorites were the fiery abstract prints in soft, gathered silks. It was worked into gowns as well as shorter, day dresses. Shaped leather details under the bust or at the waist gave many of her looks a sexier edge. Not quite a corset, but they defined the waist and drew attention to the right curves. The color palette had lots of black, maroon, red, brown and pewter. Some shimmering embroidery and pieced lace brought extra luxury to some of the dresses as well.

NY FASHION WEEK: Bibhu Mohapatra Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:48:21 PST

Dreamy goldfishes floating down the runway. At least that's how my father, the photographer described this show. Bibhu Mohapatra has been on a stellar rise in recent years. He is winning awards left and right, working along side of Prabal Garung and Waris Ahlwallia at the Fashion Incubator.

His elegant evening gowns had a bit of 1930's silhouettes, fishtail hems and ombre colors. Embellishments were strategically laid out to be the most flattering on (real) women's bodies. The inspiration for this collection was Chinese opera, like the legendary tale of the white haired lady.

photos by David TW Leung

Eastern Style of Josie Natori Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:00:30 PST

Ancient art met modern zen for the Josie Natori presentation at the Rubi Museum of NYC. The designer known mainly for intimate apparel brought out a retro Mongolian-inspired collection with deep black, cream and red colors.

The kimono was clearly a muse, as variations on the silhouette were interpreted in several ways. Soft and built around the shoulder, or as an exaggerated jacket to accentuate sleeves. While the looks clearly referenced traditional clothing items of Chinese and Japanese origin, Ms. Natori drew from that to create a fresh sportswear collection with bold Asian prints on chic black backgrounds.

Dark vamp lipstick was paired with 1920's waves or 1930's curls. Accessories included feathered fans and fan pleated clutch handbags.

The presentation of having coiffed models saunter down a spiral staircase really helped to create drama. It was like watching 1930's screen goddesses materialize out of an opium daze into daylight. Beautiful!

Photos by Ching Leung

Ladies Rule the Rock and Republic Runway for Kohls

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:11:22 PST

It was a night of rock and roll style from kick-ass ladies. Action star Zoe Saldana, model Molly Sims,musician Ashlee Simpson and actress Mena Suvari came out to celebrate the Rockand Republic collection launch for Kohl’s.

The Hammerstein ballroom in midtown Manhattan was built out in an elaborate litrunway for a parade of edgy, rock-inspired denim fashions. Tops were really sexy, with metallic fabrics,studded embellishments, sequins or shoulder-bearing cuts. Jeans were slim, in a range of colors. Really short shorts and miniskirt lengths bared sexy legs.

Accessories really brought edge to the runway looks. Feathered earrings and layered necklaces gave that rocker edge. Chunky bracelets, sharp fedoras and compact little clutch purses elevated casual outfits to more sleek ensembles. Colored pumps or studded platform heels kicked up the diva factor in footwear

Seeing the show styled so well with the accessories really helps me in my own denim dressing…I’m not a jeans girl on a regular basis. I’m old school in feeling like I need to be put together anywhere I go. The embellished tees and accented denim ensembles totally showed me that jeans can be a high fashion statement (without breaking the bank!).

I already picked out my favorites from shopping online last week. After seeing the show, my new favorites are bright red jeans and the foil printed studded one-shoulder top.

Need a peek at the show? Check out the video:

Photos by Mariana Leung and Glam director Robert McConnell

NY FASHION WEEK: Betsey Johnson Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 23:15:10 PST

If the three hour photographer waiting line for this show wasn't an indication, then the packed theater at Lincoln Center Monday proved Betsey Johnson was the hottest fashion show this season. Fall 2012 for the fashion icon included big fur faux wraps and collars.

There were cheeky cocktail dresses with flouncy skirts, mini shorts and mini skirts with colored tights. Also, slim, cigarette trousers and wildly printed blouses and tea dresses the designer is known for. Coats were A-line or a fit and flare silhouette. There were graphic black and white looks, with stripes or bold motifs. Then the ultra-girly pinks, teal and purples of her signature palette.

Accessories included brightly colored fedoras and large pieced clutch bags in harlequin colors. Jewelry was flash, fun and not to be taken too seriously.

All three generations of Johnson ladies walked the runway for the finale. The little lady and Mom, Lulu Johnson flaunted complementary pink dresses. Grandma Betsey led a cheer leading squad after her signature cartwheel and even a quick split landing. Rock on Betsey!

Photos by David TW Leung

Neon Pop L.A.M.B. from Gwen Stefani Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:07:44 PST

Pop art and music go hand in hand. Pop icon Gwen Stefani merged the two into a bright, fresh update on 1980's style references along with 1960's sweater girls.

The Fall 2012 collection for L.A.M.B. Had a vivid palette of black, white, yellow and neon colors. Soft shoulder graphic t-shirts mixed with tailored suits in oversized neon houndstooth prints. Big pop graphics and retro glen plaids mixed with short skirts and cigarette pants.

Handbags ranged from simple clutches with the houndstooth motif, to extra large patent neon or glossy black carryalls. The hair was swept up in one of the season's most popular up-dos. The semi-beehive with long hair at the back.

NYC's Hottest Guys at Kohl's Rock & Republic Launch

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 22:08:18 PST

Friday night, the famed Hammerstein Ballroom in New York hosted the city's hottest men. ON the runway, a diverse mix of fit male models strutted out in edgy looks from Rock & Republic's new collection from Kohl's.

Vests were tailored to show off the perfect chest or muscled arms. Motorcycle jackets gave an edgy look over rock and roll printed graphic tees. Jeans were long, straight with a great dark, and colored washes. Accessories included cuffs, heavy belts and darted necklaces. Athletic shoes were studded, crinkled leather dress shoes were posh.

Off the runway and down the red carpet, a dream team of hearthrobs from the show "Gossip Girl" made an appearance. Representing both the tailored look and the scruffy ends of the spectrum, Ed Westwick and

Penn Badgley made our GLAM blogger team swoon.

More than a fashion show, it was a big party! We danced with all the male eye candy to DJ Ruckus and I got to have my guy test drive the Rock & Republic jeans and tee at the end of the night.

Dan or Chuck? Which runway look rocked your world?

Discuss below in our Rock & Republic chat!

Photos by Mariana Leung and Glam director Robert McConnell

NY FASHION WEEK: Mara Hoffman Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:41:35 PST

Heading out to the the desert? Perhaps you can find your spirit fashion animal. Mara Hoffman was inspired by shaman gaucho cowboys for Fall 2012. The designer known for swimwear was a natural for transitioning into cozy sportswear.

Prints were graphic updates on Native American patterns. The color palette sleek with black, cream, purple, muddy rose and burnt orange. You can take her looks from the beach in summer and slip right into the long caftans and skirts without losing your state of zen.

Accessories included chunky motif necklaces and fashion interpretations of a gaucho hat. I want to describe the collection as rustic, but it really isn't. It may have cowboys as a theme, but the runway looks were actually very chic and cosmopolitan.

Scream Queen Glamour - Christian Siriano Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 22:03:12 PST

Did you ever find classic horror heroines elegant and sexy? Apparently designer Christian Siriano did. For his darkest collection yet, the Project Runway winner paid homage to the divas of scare Saturday night at EyeBeam Studios.

The prolific dressmaker sent elaborately detailed fishtail gowns, floating wings, ruched tulle, sequins and satin. The palette had lots of sculptured black, dark blood red, with some ghostly white thrown in. Hair was a severe pulled back ponytail and deep vamp lipstick. Red carpet fantasies for those with a wicked sensibility.

Yes, we may have seen a lot of fishtails at recent awards shows, but Mr. Siriano exaggerates the silhouette even more, with more fluid fabrics. Draped shoulder details turn into wings when the model moves. Instead of ruching as a trim, it is stacked upon stacked to built structure.

Congratulations Christian, you have achieved elegance for the post-Twilight generation!

Photos by Ching Leung

Rich Prints at Rebecca Minkoff Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 20:35:12 PST

This is one of the shows I always look forward to. Rebecca Minkoff understands the NYC woman likes an urban edge, but sometimes wants to be girly, or occasionally ironic. Fall 2012 was a mix of long lean pants and dresses, with a few mini skirts too.

The palette was a New Yorker's palette of black, jewel tones, reds, blues, orange. The prints were painterly, almost abstract, very saturated in color. While the looks were fitted and tailored, the fabrics were soft.

Rebecca Minkoff is most famous for her handbags. Built for a busy NYC lifestyle, purses were roomy, (even envelope clutches) and structured.

Spotted in the front row: Fern Mallis, Twilight's Nikki Reed, Abigail Breslin.

NY FASHION WEEK: Tadashi Shoji Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:30:00 PST

I was positively drooling over many of the gowns from this show...Yards of vintage floral printed silk, lace, embroidered tulle, burnout velvet. If I could, I wear these fabrics 24/7. Unfortunately, my lifestyle doesn't allow it. However, seeing the frocks down the runway, it allowed me to dream.

The inspiration was 1930's Shanghai, without obvious Chinoiserie. This did mean big Oriental blooms in silk, draped like old Hollywood glamour.

While my fellow bloggers watched the show from the posh comfort of the American Express skybox, I was buried deep in the grungier photographer's pit snapping away at next year's red carpet triumphs.

My blogging colleagues relayed the designer himself graced the skybox and told a very touching story about SAG/Golden Globe winning, Oscar nominated actress Octavia Spencer's humble joy in dressing in Tadashi Shoji for her red carpet moment.

The gowns (click through the whole slideshow!) were both sexy and elegant . Unlike many red carpet creations though, these dresses were flattering for most women of all body types.

The Academy Awards are coming up soon...Are you ready?

NY FASHION WEEK: Candela's Rustic Charm for Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:30:02 PST

Deep shades of claret, dark teal, cream, eggplant. I swear all of the NY Fashion Week designers are after my heart with their colors! Candela had feminine, ditsy prints in vintage silhouettes. There were some very pretty embroidered blouses that I want right now. Cozy popcorn cable cardigans to slip on over lacy dresses.

Jewelry ranged from ladylikc pearl necklaces to crystal moon dangling earrings. Floral headpieces gave a regal, country look to a few models and a jeweled headband looked like a bohemian socialite.

Designer Gabrielle Perezutti designs with her Uruguayan ranch upbringing and her present NYC urban culture. This explains why the sets were rural, the clothing was elegant, like a princess forging her own frontier...

NY FASHION WEEK: 1970's Fur at BCBG Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:35:53 PST

Fall is cozy and hot for BCBG Max Azria. The West Coast designer's show yesterday morning was a mix of bold colorblocking, fur accents and 1970's silhouettes. The palette was warm, with mustard cherry red, orange, different shades of brown as well as deep shapes of indigo. Skirts and dresses were long, the fabrics soft.

Handbags were big co-stars. Large, structured satchels, over-sized envelopes, fur carryalls and clutches coordinated with the looks on the runway. Straps and flaps were contrast against the body of the bag.

Maybe this is a really good sign for Fall 2012, or I just really like this label, but I can't wait to shop this Fall!

NY FASHION WEEK: Top Designers Glam QVC

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:26:09 PST

The West Side had a filled red carpet last night for the QVC fashion show. Designers like Isaac Mizrahi, Cynthia Vincent and Marc Bouwer sent contemporary chic collections down the runway that will make you forget the simulated gemstone bargains that the televised shopping channel was known for.

One group had bright, spring contemporary sportswear. With a scene change, another had a romantic Breakfast at Tiffany's look. The collection that blew me away though, was the final group of evening looks that I personally wanted for my closet. I never thought I would say that about QVC. I just hope no one finds me glued to the phone, talking to the tv with a credit card in my hand at 3 AM.

The event drew notables from all over NYC. From fashion, Fern Mallis and Geten Ford. Entertainers Maria Menounos and Kelly Rutherford looked glam in the red carpet. Socialite Olivia Palermo, Star Jones and a smattering 'Real Housewives' rounded out the set.

NY FASHION WEEK: Hyden Yoo's Romantic Yearning

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:55:03 PST

Hyden Yoo presented their menswear and women's collection in romantic vignettes wednesday at the Hudson Hotel Library. The story behind their Fall 2012 collection was that of the unattainable woman, and the men who yearn for her.

Don't feel sorry for the men though, for he has the confidence and style to woo her. The sexy setting of the hotel let you feel like you were walking into some intrigue a la Gossip Girl, or an underground hideaway. The clothes themselves were luxurious, sharp sportswear for the men and women to complement each other.

Deep fushia, black and cobalt blue dominated the ladies where black, grey and cream dominated the men's palette. Tops and dresses looked softly draped, while jackets and pants were tailored more sharply. Men had longer length jackets along with knits that fit slim to the body.

Milly and Sperry Topsiders Party for Boys Club of New York

noreply@blogger.com (Mariana Leung) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:54:18 PST

Bright prints for spring adorning cute dresses and cuter shoes were launched last week. Milly by Michelle Smith collaborated on a special collection of footwear with Sperry Top-Sider. Socialites mixed with fashion media at the launch party held at the Milly boutique. A portion of the sales that night benefited the Boys Club of New York.

Sperry Top-Sider is known for their casual chic with a nautical bent. Milly is known for upscale bright colors and graphic prints. How did they mix? The shoes ranged from flat, sneaker silhouettes with Milly prints and shiny eyelets to rope bound platform heels in bright florals with dainty loafer lacing.

The Boys Club of New York is a non-profit organization with several clubhouses around New York City with programs to help at-risk boys grow up to be successful young men.

To donate, click through and help here.