Tag Archives: womenswear

My Fashion Week Friday

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My Friday went off with a loud bang at the Lincoln Center when Zimmermann’s Fall/Winter 2014 collection hit the runway for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Last season Zimmermann presented an uber-feminine collection full of whimsy and romance based on a circus ringmaster theme. This season however, the designers went in the total opposite direction and showcased a line called “Cloud Stompers.” Think about it for a second—how do you think a cloud stomper would poise itself, if there was such a thing?

I’ll tell you how they are—or at least through Zimmermann’s eyes. Silhouettes were of cloud-like shapes, with foggy looking grey prints. Grey prints met up with houndstooth jackets and took a stroll. Oversized coats and utility handbags made guest appearances. Then a round of clothes hit the runway with heavy-duty hardware embellishments—studded coats and chain-link details. The darkness and masculinity of the collection wasn’t for me—but it would suit the alternative chick looking for an outlet of expression. My photos did not turn out so hot, so here is a video instead. The best outfit was the lacey-jumpsuit: super sexy! (You can fast-forward the video to 9:10 to see it.)

Next in line was Carmen Marc Valvo’s collection.  The audience was pumped up and reminded about Valentine’s Day just around the corner as the designer blasted Pat Benatar’s “Love is a Battlefield” on repeat, with a strong, war-like opera music to conclude the show. The designer was inspired by the opulence of the Ottoman Empire, creating a theme with shield-like material (chain mail details), breast plates, gunmetal color palette but with seductive lace details to bring romance to the line. Essentially the vibe was brought to the runway that the female is “ready for battle, and ready for love.”

Here are some of my photos from the show.

 

The show that broke up the womenswear focus of my week was Nautica Black Sail. Woo! Here is a video of the sexy men that graced the runway. You’re welcome.

I think after going to that show I can only bring men to meet my parents if they have a fog machine entrance, otherwise, it’s a deal breaker. You hear that, boys?

After a power nap, I rallied and headed down to a new venue called The Hub at the Hudson Hotel.  Charlotte Ronson was holding a presentation in which models stood on a stage in a half circle, taking turns walking down the mini runway and then walking back to stand and pose. It was a beautiful line that I could see a lot of chic women wearing—very dark, but with pops of floral prints in jewel-tones. The criss-cross suspenders made an interesting touch.

Lastly, I trekked downtown to 15th and 6th avenue to see Heidi Gardner’s jewelry line. FUNKY set-up for sure. The House of Horology (an art/watch studio) made an interesting set, with intriguing art installations all over the room. A bit creepy, actually. But who can deny free cocktails and new fashion friends? I got both. The show started an hour in when the audience were motioned to stand in a circle as ninja-esque models rotated in the circle to stop and pose with their jewelry. It was interesting to say the least! Check out the photos I took of the party.

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5 shows in one day, a crazy Friday, but a great time! Happy fashion week, y’all!

xoxo,

Blaire

 

Femininity and Glamour at RAOUL F/W 2014

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RAOUL presented a beautiful, feminine ready-to-wear line at the off-site location Stanley H. Kaplan Penthouse this morning to kick-start my fashion week events. The models stood on the stage that curved around the room, some chatting to each other while the press mingled and took their photos. My favorite looks were the vintage-esque ensembles—the prints mixed with powder blue tones and marigold. Each look was feminine, but had a modern twist.  LOVE IT.  In addition, RAOUL launched a new accessories and shoe (!!!) line. What do you think of the looks? Which is your favorite?

The Fashion Olympics Begin

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Today was the official kick-start of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York: the official Olympian event for fashionistas around the world. Global trendsetters are flying in from all over to make appearances at shows while flaunting their best high heels (without tights) in this super frigid cold air. To make it more of a spectacle, these stylists, models, bloggers, editors and spectators alike are hopping and leaping over giant mounds of snow with pure grace in their stilettos. Impressive, we know.

Here are some street style photos of fashionistas that caught my eye today.

Katie Gallagher’s Funeral Flowers Prevail

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Upon arrival at The Raven on that hot, September day of New York Fashion Week—guests spiraled up the staircase into a packed room full of press and fans alike. Each lined up to get the best photos possible of the new spring summer 2014 Katie Gallagher collection, while others bee-lined to the bar to cool off with a vodka lemonade—both excellent choices.

Models stood against the backdrop of a blank white wall—staggered positioning based on height alone. The minimalist, yet edgy line was inspired by the song “Blume” [lyric: For you I am a Chrysanthemum/Supervova, Urgent Star/  For you, I’ll be a dandelion, a thousand flowerettes in the sky, or just a drop in the ocean} and funeral flowers. The line titled ‘Bloom’ for spring/summer examines our tendency to conceal unpleasant ordeals with beautiful objects.  I had to wonder if they had to draw sticks or not, as some models got the short end of the deal and had to bite onto a rose for the entire presentation.

Take a look at the happy models [note: sarcasm] and let me know what you think of the presentation. I found her inspirations to be interesting and unique, and her line clearly stayed true to the theme.

Check out www.katiegallagher.com – I recommend watching the videos of her previous lines, too– entertaining!

Zang Toi Showcases Ballet Beauty on the Runway

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Since 1989, designer Zang Toi has built a world-renowned fashion house that has luxury insiders anxious for more of the House of Toi. Toi opened the show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week with a male ballerina performance. The attention to details and theatrics were just part of the beautiful opening—which followed with clothes just as intricately played out.

At first, a dark palette of black, navy suits, jackets, trousers and shorts graced the runway. It was slightly confusing for a spring show, until finally ballet pinks and spring blues emerged on red-carpet-worthy gowns and dresses. The ‘ballet babes’ themed show was glamorous and paid homage to the ballet, as many of Toi’s looks are named accordingly. His show was beautiful—and it was beautiful watching him walk the runway with the model at the end, filled with emotion of putting his amazing line down the catwalk at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. It’s no surprise that Toi has dressed countless celebrities and won too many to count awards. After covering shows for almost 4 years now, this was the very first time I have ever witnessed the ENTIRE audience rising for a standing ovation. Wow—what a moment!

For more of Zang Toi, check out his website at http://zangtoi.com/

My Fave of the Week: Cynthia Rowley

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Drumroll, please! Cynthia Rowley’s Presentation was my favorite of the week. Rowley demonstrated what she is known best for: whimsy, femininity, and beautiful style. Walking into the Highline Hotel where the presentation was held was a trip in itself. The overwhelming, delicious smell of espresso upon arrival and a cute little cocktail bar tucked to the left. Kind PR girls ushered guests up the multiple flights of old-school, castle-like stairs into the giant banquet room that was decorated similarly to Cynthia Rowley’s party-décor shop—with multi-colored bulbs placed in the old chandeliers and bright, cheery streamers draped for days. The atmosphere was fun and vibrant, and I hadn’t even seen the clothes yet.

Rowley’s models stood side by side showcasing her Spring/Summer line that will be in stores in 2014. Bright colors, feminine shapes, floral prints, embroidery—she left out no detail when creating this collection. Surfer girls in California, women in Greenwich, Texas ladies going to a cocktail party—her designs are created for all kinds of women across the country. Women with confidence that are bold and feminine will flock to stores to get their hands on this sweet collection.

I left the event smiling—no one could help it after seeing these happy, whimsical designs. It was a fabulous fashion affair!

For everything Cynthia Rowley, check out http://www.cynthiarowley.com/

 

BlacMéra Brings Couture and Eels to Fashion Week

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BlacMéra put on a beautiful show at Pier 59 for New York Fashion Week. The couture brand put together a spring line that embodies the designer’s aesthetics of bringing femininity and romanticism together with an old world’s beauty and charm. The line is built for the modern, strong woman of the world. What better place to present a line like this than in the Big Apple? A city that is full of beautiful, powerful women. On the side, champagne glasses bubbled with edible hibiscus flower drinks, and the Spice and Tease stand enabled guests to dip bread in all assorted spices. It made for great conversations and atmosphere.

The glamorous jewel tones glittered down the runway as soon as the show started. Models strut, one by one, down to the end of the aisle and back to their multi-level stools to stand on. After each posed and were in place on stools—applause broke out and guests mingled to get closer views. An exciting element to the garments was eel leather. I had no idea that this was possible—but with a closer examination, it looked luxe and perfectly detailed with Yuliana Candra’s designer touch.

After seeing her Spring 2014 collection, I am looking forward to see what she’ll create in the future!

What look is your favorite?

For more BlacMéra, check out her website http://www.blacmera.com/

Introducing Abraham Pelham’s Pret-a-Porter Line Fall 2013

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New York, New York—What better way to celebrate Valentine’s day than by viewing lovely, carefully designed clothes over mimosas? That is precisely what I did.  I walked into the Trump International Hotel Tower to view none other than the celebrated couturier Abraham Pelham’s first ever ready-to-wear collection.  Pelham’s home-base is in Paris, but lucky for me, I got an exclusive preview of the collection while he was in town for New York Fashion Week.

At the presentation I was graciously greeted and led into a beautiful showroom. The designer himself was there to show his newest creations. What struck me the most about the line was the incredible, luxe fabrics and the precise workmanship involved. Each piece is impeccably designed and made sure of that it is absolutely perfect. Each stripe, button detail, and pocket strategically placed. When the model wearing the red jacket put her hands in the pockets it was a surprise because they’re so carefully placed; it isn’t apparent until they’re used.

The bows, fabricated buttons, and cuts are a few of the key details that create an extra feminine look in Pelham’s prêt-a-porter line. The pieces are chic and classic. Because of the silhouettes (see the skirts!) the line stayed young and fresh, while still maintaining the sophistication level.  Despite the beautiful craftsmanship, I thought the pants weren’t the most notable pieces of the line. I appreciated the feminine tops and coats over anything else in the collection.  The bandage-skirts however were for sale at Express when I worked there 3 years ago– maybe it wasn’t necessary for a couturier’s RTW line?

When asked why he decided to design a prêt-a-porter line in addition to his couture, he explained that his clients have been asking him to do this for the past 7 years. Everyone has their hands on Chanel for daytime, but his pieces haven’t been available for daytime looks. Finally, 2013 has rolled around and this year he has decided to produce it. His clients will be very pleased to show the looks off to their friends at the next event.