Ladies Who Lunch: Venexiana Spring 2012!

One of the biggest pleasures of attending Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York is attending the eveningwear presentations.   The realm of eveningwear is all about beauty and sexiness, so it easy very easy to get caught up in the fantasy of it all!

One of the most opulent eveningwear collections that shows in New York is Venexiana.  Designer Kati Stern focuses on exquisite fabrics and builds her collection around them.  Elaborate construction, inventive drapes, artisanal embellishment and sophisticated silhouettes make Venexiana a true Couture Eveningwear line.

For Spring 2012, the Venexiana Collection had a color palette that was as diverse as the silhouettes, offering a wide variety of choices.  Ball gowns, form fitting gowns and sexy cocktail dresses came down the runway, each one very special in this detail oriented collection that has a little something for everyone.

Definitely a Red Carpet Collection, I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of these looks at upcoming award shows and premieres.

We met with Kati Stern backstage before the show to speak with her about the Venexiana Spring 2012 Collection and to find out what makes this prolific designer tick!

Video Photography by Nicholas Waickman

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Ladies Who Lunch: Byron Lars Holiday Sample Sale!

Tis the Season for Sample Sales! What better time to get all your favorite designers at prices you can’t refuse!  All over New York, designers are holding Sample Sales to clear out their inventory, so it is your time to shop!

Byron Lars Beauty Mark, one of my all time favorite designers, will be holding a sample sale starting tomorrow and you don’t want to miss it!  Go to shop for las minute gifts or a Holiday treat for yourself!  Great Prices, Beautiful Clothing and All Sizes Available!

Get the looks that everyone from Michelle Obama to Kim Kardashian are wearing!

       Byron Lars Beauty Mark Sample Sale 

WHEN:  DECEMBER 20th Thru DECEMBER 22nd

Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Byron Lars Beauty Mark Showroom

          250 West 39th Street (Between 7th and 8th Avenue)

          Suite 1605 on the 16th Floor

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Ladies Who Lunch: Elene Cassis Spring 2012!

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is a hectic week of running from one show to another, standing in lines and a lot of waiting.  I always love seeing what the big-name established designers will come up with each season and what trends will be important.  However, what I really find exciting about the week is the discovery of young fresh talent.

One of those discoveries last season was Elene Cassis.  Having only graduated from Parsons School of Design in 2009, Elene Cassis has already developed a name for herself and piqued my interest.  Her Fall 2011 Collection was focused, sophisticated and very chic.  Utilizing European fabrications that had a vintage feel to them, Elene’s collection played with color blocking, texture, and matte mixed with sequins.

On the heels of such a strong collection, I was very interested to see what she would come up with for Spring 2012 and I wasn’t disappointed.  The show opened with violinist Sarah Charness performing Swan Lake, which set the tone for the whole show.  Elene Cassis’ Spring 2012 collection again played with color blocking, sophisticated silhouettes, textures and a refreshing spring color palette.  Inspired by the Swan Lake theme, gorgeous dresses that mixed white and black together were a big highlight of the show.

We went backstage to talk about the beautiful new collection with Elene Cassis and also had the opportunity to speak with Sarah Charness about her involvement in the show and where she is heading with her music!

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Ladies Who Lunch: Parke & Ronen Spring 2012!

As you know, I LOVE to shop!  I especially like shopping for myself, finding new and interesting things to wear and trying on a slew of garments!  Only problem is that I am extremely picky (no big surprise) and there are very few things that really speak to me.  Even more frustrating can be finally finding something I love and it not being available in my size!

Due to my high standards, there really are only a very few collections that really draw me in.  A recent discovery, Parke & Ronen is one of those lines.  As I have stated previously, I am not a super relaxed casual guy and when I am dressed casual, I still like to be stylish and put together.  Parke & Ronen fits my casual style aesthetic perfectly.

With chic swimsuits, workout gear, casual shirts, casual shorts and pants and nicely cut jackets, Parke & Ronen offers me the look I want for the gym, the beach, vacation or just a casual weekend in town!  The Spring 2012 collection offers all of that and in great colors to boot!  As I watched the runway show, I was already making a shopping list in my head!

We went backstage before the show to meet the Parke & Ronen designers, Parke Lutter and Ronen Jehezkel, to find out more about them, where their inspiration comes from and what we will be lusting after for the Spring 2012 Season!

Video Photography - Nicholas Waickman

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Ladies Who Lunch: Fratelli Rossetti Spring 2012!

After reading my posts for a while, you know by now that I love shoes!  Women’s shoes especially intrigue me, with each pair almost being a work of art!  Of course I have no practical use for them, but I love to look at them all the same.  And while I still love men’s shoes and actually DO have a practical use for them, there aren’t many design houses that make really interesting shoes for men. Which is one of the reasons I love Fratelli Rossetti!

Founded in 1953, Fratelli Rossetti has grown to be one of the major players in the luxury shoe market.  Beautiful designs coupled with an artisanal approach to the crafting of their shoes make them almost irresistible!  Fratelli Rossetti produces collections for both men and women and with a wide variety of styles, there is something for everyone!  I myself am already lusting after several pairs in the Spring 2012 Collection and look forward to them hitting the stores!

So if you are as much of a shoe lover as I am, check out the Spring 2012 collection from Fratelli Rossetti and start making your wish list now!

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Ladies Who Lunch: Zang Toi Holiday Super Sale!

Of all of the shows that I attend during Fashion Week, the Zang Toi show is one that I most look forward to.  Zang Toi’s collections are well thought out, focused, creative, luxurious and just plain beautiful.  Zang Toi’s talent shines in all of his presentations!  And the garments are just phenomenal: the best quality fabrics, beautiful craftsmanship and a style that is simply elegant!  Mr. Toi knows his clientele and gives them exactly what they want and need!

Now it’s your chance to dive into some Zang Toi Style!  Zang Toi is holding a Holiday Super Sale sample sale in his private showroom on 57th Street in New York.  Merchandise will be offered at up to 50% off on selected items.  In addition to Zang Toi apparel, there will also be fine jewelry from B Wendy Brandes and shirts from P-3 The Bamboo Shirt, 100% Organic and eco-friendly.

Don’t miss this opportunity to add some Zang Toi to your wardrobe, accessorize with jewelry from B Wendy Brandes and a great shirt from P-3 The Bamboo Shirt.

December 13th & 14th 2011

11am - 8pm

30 West 57th Street, 7th Floor

New York, NY 10019

RSVP

212-757-1200 / zangtoi@houseoftoi.com

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Ladies Who Lunch: Naturalizer Fall 2011 - Comfort vs. Fashion!

Comfort versus Fashion, that is always the dilemma.  Personally, I always opt for fashion and feel that being uncomfortable is a small price to pay for being chic.  As a child, when I complained about being uncomfortable in my Sunday Best, it was explained to me that you dressed well, NOT for yourself, but out of respect for those that would be around you.  While I agree with that, I still get great personal pleasure out of wearing incredible clothes.

But are Comfort and Fashion really diametrically opposed?  Perhaps not.  Founded in 1927, the Naturalizer shoe company has been know for having practical, comfortable shoes.  While their shoes are always very nice aesthetically, you could hardly call them fashionable.  However, Naturalizer is changing all of that, by introducing into their line a collection of fashion conscious shoes that follow the trends, yet are still comfortable!

We dropped by the Times Square Naturalizer boutique to explore the new line and what it is all about!

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Ladies Who Lunch: Matt Bernson Holiday Sample Sale!

Ex-construction worker turned shoemaker, Matt Bernson is based in Tribeca in NYC.  Matt Bernson is all about luxurious shoes that are über popular with fashionistas and Celebs alike.  But that just scratches the surface of what these shoes are all about!

All of Matt Bernson’s shoes are hand produced in artisinal workshop factories using the highest quality craftsmanship, eco-responsible materials and “advanced comfort-engineering”.  From sexy strappy sandals to wintry chic wintry booties, Matt Bernson style is both casual and elegant.  With style that can be worn to a pool party or to rock the red carpet, it is easy to see why this shoe brand has caught the eye of so many in-the-know.

You can find Matt Bernson shoes at my favorite New York store, Bergdorf Goodman, at small fashionable boutiques in the NY area, and of course on-line!

But those of you who are lucky enough to be in New York have the extra special opportunity of shopping the:

Matt Bernson Holiday Sample Sale!!

Thursday, 8 December - Saturday, 10 December

11am - 6pm Daily

20 Harrison Street (btwn Hudson & Greenwich)

Cash Only!

So grab a cab down to Tribeca and grab some Fall Styles to get you through the winter or some sexy sandals for your winter get-away!

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Ladies Who Lunch: Urban Zen!

Since launching her company in 1985, Donna Karan has become a household name and her collections continue to meet the needs of the modern woman season after season.  Famous for her “Essentials” line that initially consisted of “seven easy pieces” that could be mixed and matched and take a woman from the office to dinner, Donna Karan built her design house on the principle that she would only design clothes that she would wear herself.

Donna Karan could easily rest on her hard earned success. But instead, she has chosen to reach out to people across the globe and aid those less fortunate than herself.  In 2007, Karan launched the Urban Zen Foundation, an organization with a mission to preserve world cultures, empower children and reshape healthcare.  Taking that mission to countries around the world, Donna Karan has brought the Urban Zen Foundation to Haiti.  Aiding in the rebuilding of the earthquake ravaged country, the Urban Zen Foundation is employing all of the tenets of the organization to do so.

Launched in tandem with the Urban Zen Foundation, the Urban Zen stores serve both as a source of funding for the organization and as an outlet for handcrafted items made by artisans in countries such as Haiti, Indonesia, Senegal and Bali.  By supporting the artisans of these countries, it not only helps to preserve their indigenous art forms, but it also gives them a path to self sustainability.

With stores already in New York and Sag Harbor, Urban Zen has now opened a store on the West Coast!  Originally opened as a temporary “pop-up” store in West Hollywood in March of 2011, the success of Urban Zen on the West Coast has led to its opening as a permanent store there.  The store is a perfect match for the L.A. lifestyle, carrying everything form yoga inspired clothing, jewelry, essential oils, body care products and home furnishing.

We visited the West Hollywood store and spoke with John Omlor, Director of Stores, about the store, the foundation and what Urban Zen is all about.  We also got to speak to Donna Karan about the foundation and what it is currently working on!

Video Photography by Omri Escalante

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Ladies Who Lunch: One Love Bombay Pop Up Festival!

If you are in Mumbai, India, you don't want to miss this hot event.  A collaboration between Bombay Electric and WETHEPPL, the One Love Bombay Pop Up Festival promises to be a full day of fashion, music, art, food, drinks & fun!!

Sunday Ka Funday December 4th

at Bombay Electric from 2pm-8pm

Featured at the day long event:

MIMOSAS AND SAMOSAS for the tastebuds BEATS by Doctor Saab THE TICKLE TRUNK Play with cult photographer Sheena at the live photo booth with a tickle trunk of costumes and fashion to pop into. FASHION MIXTAPE NorBlack NorWhite shows a capsule collection, dedicated to electrify the soul and pay respect to REMIXED MAAL for the men, Camiz, Chuddies, UNT bags and Postman wallets VISUAL ART Projections, Posters, Prints + Fresh Originals

At Bombay Electric, one of my all time fave Mumbai stores, this event sounds like a blast.  Wishing I was in Mumbai this weekend so that I could join in the festivities!

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Ladies Who Lunch: Nautica Men's Collection Spring 2012!

At a recent trip to a museum exhibit, I met up with friends wearing a polo shirt and jeans.  My friends ribbed me, saying that it was the most casual they had ever seen me dressed!  Admittedly, my “casual” would oftentimes be what others would call business casual, but I’m just not that laid back of a dresser.  I’m kind of a preppy guy at heart and wearing flip-flops and grunge clothing is really not my thing.

Which brings me to the Nautica Spring 2012 Collection.  The presentation was held on the rooftop deck of the Empire Hotel (you’ll recognize it as Chuck Bass’ hotel on Gossip Girl) and I attended with my dear friend and partner Mariana Leung of MsFABulous.com.  We were able to snag an interview with Creative Director Chris Cox to find out more about the line.  We also spoke with up-and-coming hip hip star fame and got his views on the collection.

I personally own several pieces of Nautica clothing from board shorts and windbreakers to hoodies.  I love the semi-preppy style of Nautica and this season gave me more of what I want.  Great polos, board shorts, hoodies, pants and a few great jackets!  I loved the color range this season, from nautical blues, yellows and whites to bold reds, oranges and yellows.  I have been craving more color in my wardrobe and this line delivers!

As a lifestyle brand, Nautica is a great fit for me and I know that it will answer the needs of a very wide audience.  I can’t wait for the line to hit the stores and go shopping!

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Ladies Who Lunch: Sherri Hill Spring 2012!

Since there really weren’t any design options during my short stint in Atlanta, I had to get creative about work options.  This led to teaching design at a college and working at the Apparel Mart in a multi-line showroom.  It was at this showroom that I met Sherri Hill and worked with her line.  Ms. Hill’s designs immediately garnered my respect and I was even more smitten when I met this down-to-earth, charming and super talented lady.

With my Haute Couture background, I was immediately intrigued with Ms. Hill’s designs.  The quality of craftsmanship on the inside and outside of her gowns was undeniable.  And yes, I alway do examine the construction of garments, almost an obsession of mine.  However, beyond the construction I was impressed with the meticulous attention to detail, the intricate perfectly placed beading, and the sexy flattering silhouettes.  It was no mystery to me why Sherri Hill's gowns were highly sought after in the Beauty Pageant circuit and by celebrities.  Simply put, a Sherri Hill gown brings out a woman’s best assets to the fullest and lets their beauty shine.

Known for her special occasion dressing and a  line of prom dresses that is unrivaled, Sherri Hill has expanded to creating a ready-to wear line of gowns and cocktail dresses that will make her luscious designs available to a wider audience.  Sherri Hill presented her ready-to-wear line at New York Fashion Week in September and it was every bit as impressive as her couture line.

We met up with Ms. Hill to talk about the evening wear line in her New York showroom, where she was shooting the ad campaign for the Spring 2012 Collection.  The ad campaign is featuring none other than Miss China, Luo Zilin, and we got to see her in action in front of the camera.  We were also fortunate to be there at the same time as Chinese Television Icon Yue-Sai Kan and Ms. Kan graciously spoke to us about the Sherri Hill line.

So, get ready to be dazzled and tempted by the spectacular designs of Sherri Hill!

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