The luxury Brazilian accessories brand, Carmen Steffens launched its Fall Collection at the Westfield Fashion Square in Sherman Oaks. Why Sherman Oaks…you ask? Carmen Steffens wants to appeal to everyone, not just celebrities or Beverly Hills clientele. They want to reach out to those who love fashion but can’t necessarily afford the Louboutins, Manolos or YSLs. Carmen Steffens pride themselves as being a brand that only carries one size or handbags that may only have one for the entire US market. The brand sets the highest standards to make sure that their focus is on style, exclusivity and comfort. Especially comfort. The shoes are made with a composite or rubber sole that allows people to walk on hard floors with ease (and I was told that that’s why their stores have marble floors and not carpeted floors…to demonstrate how comfortable it is when trying out the shoes). When trying on the platformed shoes myself, I too, believed in the Carmen Steffens comfort… I felt a difference when walking around and loved the way the shoe had a slight upper curvature that I believe would help to relieve the bulk of the pressure at ball of the foot. Prices to own a Carmen Steffens piece range from: $150-760 for shoes/boots, $190-850 for handbags and $180-190 for wallets.
Special Thanks: J, Michael Shane of Gorgeous PR, Mark Willingham- President of US Operations, the helpful sales staff of the Fashion Square Carmen Steffens store- 14006 Riverside Drive, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423.
NOTE: Along with the slide show of pix from the event, Michael was kind enough to give me the link to the CS virtual fashion show. They reinvented the fashion show by making it mostly animation but the CS products are not animation. Enjoy!
Pasadena’s Ambassador Auditorium was the setting for the Project Light Fashion Show- in accordance with the Project Light Arts and Entertainment Conference. The show featured two musical performances by the Groovaloos and singer, Hope; plus four designers and was hosted by E!’s “How Do I Look” host-Jeannie Mai and Father/Son Pastors: Gabe and Che Ahn.
Designs by Danielle Kelly featured deconstructed tops and barely-there mini dresses by celebrity designer Danielle Kelly. Danielle launched her career in 2003, working for the brand popular for their trucker hats- Von Dutch. Her designs are sought-after by Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys and Brittany Spears just to name a few. The finale dress Danielle wore onstage was amazing!
IDNYC featured pieces from Brazilian-born designer, Isabelle Donola’s “Reborn” collection, which you can read more about here. I really admire her use of New York and European aesthetics, color and structure and the fact that she uses recycled fabrics.
Designer Shalanda Jarrett showcased her new sustainable men’s line- Shay J. Her “eye” for fashion began when she was little. She would complain to her Mom that her Barbies didn’t have enough clothes. Her Mom then gave her the advice that would put her on the path to fashion- she should make the clothes herself. She chose to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle because [being in the fashion industry] she has made the startling observation that labels (big labels at that) would just go through their resources “like its toilet paper.” As well as a friend of hers who was living green. She chose to do a mens wear line because, “there is more room for textile manipulation…It is easier (for me) to design mens wear because it is easy to please men when it comes to their wardrobe.” I could tell by the quality and uniqueness, that Shalanda has keen eye for mens fashion and I hope to see her line in the stores, especially the clear jacket!
Lastly, designer June Kim featured her new haute couture line, CHIUHN. Usually inspired by Chanel, this new line, however took on a different direction with inspiration from her childhood drawings. Her line took on a Parisian theme with many fabrications: suits, lace with two-tone shade silk satin, pure silk dresses accentuated with fur, sheer feminine laces with flowers and hand-embroidered with jewels and pearls, beaded cocktail gowns with fur… I saw hints of Chanel in the suits and Marie Antoinette in one of the dresses.The line was beautiful and June achieved her goal of the line having the fairy-tale romance and whimsical aesthetics. CHIUHN is one of three lines by June under the company- Queen Esther Enterprises.
Special Thanks: J, HRock Church, The Ambassador Auditorium, the designers, performers, model casting coordinator- Rowel Salvador, the models of Models and Design, all the volunteers and staff, Jeannie Mai, pastors Che and Gabe Ahn.
Emerging brand Kao Pao Shu held their showroom grand opening in Santa Monica. The showroom is housed in a converted 5000 sq. ft. warehouse. It was a bustling evening, filled with shopping the collection, getting your portrait taken by Kao Pao Shu designer Naida’s husband-Marco, watching a live photo shoot with models styled by Studio DNA Salon and stylist- Devon Poer; and enjoying hors ‘d ouvers. I viewed the collection of tops, skirts, dresses and handbags made from the signature ribbons, webbings and fabrics found around the world. I had the delightful opportunity of meeting the brain behind the designs- Naida Begeta, born in Bosnia and graduated from the Sarajevo Academy of Fine Arts with a degree in product design. All her pieces are manufactured here in the US and are a hit in Japan (I can even see hints of Japanese influence in her avant-garde creations). I also watched as the four models got styled in couture make-up by Studio DNA Salon and after getting styled by Devon Poer, were escorted to the makeshift photo studio that was set up in a corner of the warehouse. It was exciting seeing the live photo shoot taking place and the incredible energy from the photographer, models and guests.
Kao Pao Shu showroom is located at: 1906 Olympic Blvd. Santa Monica,CA 90404. Ph:(310)453-1919. Hours: Monday – Friday 9:30am-6.30pm or Saturday by appointment.
Special Thanks: J; Francesca Albanese- Marketing Manager at Kao Pao Shu; Naida Begeta; Photographer- Marco Schillaci; the models: Chelsea Freeborn, Diana Butova, Sabrina Setarah, Morgan Blimendane; stylist: Devon Poer; Danny LeClair and the hair/make-up team at Studio DNA Salon; the volunteers and DJ.
It was an evening where dreams came true…An evening where celebrities mixed with royalty and foreign diplomats… It was the evening that LA’s only fashion school- Academy of Couture Art- that catered to couture design held their first fashion show and gala- “Collide 2010,” held at the lovely Sofitel in West Hollywood and hosted by NBC’s “First Look” On Air Host Viviana Vigil. The fashion show was held during a delicious three-course meal and consisted of introductions by the founders of ACA, Sonia and Thierry Ete; followed by Princess Theodora of Greece and Denmark being honored as a role model to the world’s youth. Then Virtuoso Violio Elizabeth Pitcairn took center stage and played a piece with her “Red Mendelssohn” Stradivarius of 1720, which was the inspiration of the Academy award-winning film “The Red Violin”. Lastly, Angelia Dufresne- youth designer from the Summer Intensive program, was awarded “Miss Teen Couture” by Baroness Kimberly Moore.
The fashion portion of the program consisted of eight skirt designs by the youth of the Summer Couture Camp Skirt Collection, then five designs by the youth of the Teen Couture Club Collection. The program concluded with “Nouvelle Couture Show”- designs of ten of the graduates: Boris Ramos, Christina Manolescu, Sarah Kim, Mariana Romero, Tori Cates, Max Freiermuth, Ann Billardello, Angelina Radden, Kay Enyart, Sloane Pennington, Angela Chuy and Sabrina Yadegar. The “Nouvelle Couture Show” ended with designs that paid tribute to Alexander McQueen and Swarovski Crystals. Every designer brought something unique to the table; from Christina Manolescu’s bustiers with off-center zipper closures to Tori Cates’s playful monster purse, Max Freiermuth’s blue gown and the Chanel-inspired pieces by Sabrina Yadegar. I was in love with the McQueen Tribute gowns by Tori Cates and Heidi An. The time it must’ve taken them to pull off such intricate draping and the strict attention to detail….extraordinary! I have the utmost respect for couture designers and I hope these graduates get noticed and continue to receive the credibility they deserve.
About Academy of Couture Art:
The Academy of Couture Art was founded as a higher institution of learning to teach the principles and techniques of fashion that go above and beyond those ordinarily taught in the United States by providing instruction combining European Haute Couture fashion with American fashion. Unique to American fashion education, ACA teaches Pattern Design and Fashion Design separately with faculty educated in French Couture tradition.Located at the center of one of the Fashion and Entertainment centers of the World, in the prestigious Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, the Academy of Couture Art offers innovative, challenging, and flexible fashion education programs that prepare a diverse student population for professional excellence in design, fashion, and business.
Our Vision is to provide an education of excellence that transforms unique creators into life-long professionals who design the world with the essence of Haute Couture.
Our Mission at the Academy of Couture Art has set mission to enrich the community through creations that raise the level of aesthetic, quality, intelligence and sophistication.
To achieve this goal, Academy of Couture Art follows, conveys, and promotes the essence, principles, and concept of Haute Couture translated by the research of Beauty, Harmony, Elegance, Perfection, and Uniqueness.
The market place is becoming more diversified, specific, personalized, and fostering micro-markets that target individually clients with a growing need for products fitting better their unique personality. Academy of Couture Art responds to this demand by preparing exceptionally talented individuals to become highly specialized experts and life-long professionals, who are capable of critical thinking, problem solving, market analysis, and to serve not only companies, at any level of their industry, but also to create their own brand, developing the niche market that fits perfectly their unique creativity.
Academy of Couture Art nurtures professionals with hands-on, student-centered programs and innovative teaching techniques focusing on student learning outcomes that develop confidence, sense of belonging and purpose. As the result, Academy of Couture Art constitutes a family of artists, designers, creators and leaders empowering each other, and dedicated to bring values and prosperity to the community.
For more information, please contact Michelle Myers, Director of Admissions, Academy of Couture Art, michelle@acawh.com, or call (310)360-8888.
Special Thanks: J, Sofitel, Sonia and Thierry Ete of Academy of Couture Art, Michelle Myers (Director of Admissions), Viviana Vigil, Eva DiShanni (Event Producer), Countess Michelle Czernin von Chudenitz (Media Outreach, PPMG), Lloyd Klein and John Arguelles, Celebrity Hairstylist- Sean James, Celebrity Make-Up Director- Gina Brooke, Celebrity Make-Up Artist- Tiffany Saxby, Elizabeth Pitcairn, Piano Accompaniment- Felix, the designers and models and volunteers (shout-out to Kirbie J!) and singer, Lolene.
Think Thru Fashion’s Sydne Summer hosted an accessory swap soiree poolside at the trendy hotel Avalon in Beverly Hills for fashion/beauty bloggers and editors. Along with swapping, guests also were able to shop at the Michael Stars cabana; were treated to mini make-overs by Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics and enjoyed complimentary cocktails by Blue Angel Vodka and hors d’oeuvres (the cheese risotto balls were delish!) I was eager to swap some unworn jewelry and and ended up adding two cute belts to my wardrobe.
Guests also had the opportunity to win some great prizes through a charity raffle. Proceeds from the raffle went to the Joyful Heart Foundation, which was founded in 2004 by activist and actress Mariska Hargitay to help support the survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse through various programs. The evening raised $680 plus what Sydne Summer and Michael Stars matched, which totaled $2,000.
Special Thanks: J, Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills- 9400 West Olympic Blvd. Beverly Hills, CA 90210 PH:(310) 277-5221., Sydne Summer, Michael Stars, Blue Angel Vodka, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, Mariska Hargitay of Joyful Heart Foundation, Felix Salzman and Joy Bullard of LookbookLA.com.
I am pleased to announce that there’s a new blogger community in Los Angeles- Two Point Oh LA. Founded July 2010 by blogger Kelsi Smith, who felt that bloggers spent most of their time alone with their computers and without an entourage of photographers, videographers, etc while at fashion events; these bloggers needed a local network where they could meet and hang-out. For an annual fee of a mere $25, the membership will include workshops, promotions and gatherings where members can socialize and network.
On July 17th, Two Point Oh LA had its First Annual picnic in Griffith Park. The weather was sweltering, but of course that didn’t stop us bloggers from getting dressed up and networking with several LA-area bloggers. We enjoyed sandwiches, chips, veggies Dry Soda- available in a variety of delectable flavors and customized ice cream sandwiches by Joysticks. There were three booths set up by some of the sponsors of the picnic. I signed up for the VIP card for Crossroads Trading Company and learned about the 31 Bits Campaign at the Reef booth while viewing sandals and was gifted bracelets (from the campaign) made with paper beads handcrafted by displaced women in Uganda. I then met Ruchi, a jewelry designer from Phoenix, who was showcasing her line, RGK D’ Zines- beautiful bracelets, rings and earrings from India. Staying true to her motto, “One of Kind…One of You,” all her pieces are unique and one-of-a-kind and cut from sterling silver and gold plating and have semi-precious and precious stones set in and are inspired by the Victorian and Mogul eras.
The day was a major success and I look forward to more events that Two Point Oh LA has to offer and meeting new friends as well as catching up with old.
The hip style house La Maison de Fashion on Melrose was the place to be for the debut show of Alana Hale’s Holiday 2010 collection. The event was hosted by the lovely ladies of La Maison de Fashion, Taylar Aquilar and Alana Hale. Alana, a FIDM graduate, started her line about a year and a half ago and this collection a mere four months ago. She presented eleven looks inspired by “Old Hollywood”. She wanted to mix lady-like glamor with dramatic showmanship. She used a variety of material such as: leathers, silks and metallic threads. The silhouettes were kept simple, per Alana’s request-as she wants simple as possible, due to her love of adding as much detailing as possible and her other love of detailed fabric. I adored the “Sophia Dress”- made of feather appliqued silk and silk crepe and the knockout piece of the night was the embossed burgundy leather “Croc Dress” (which is also Alana’s favorite as well.)
The Alana Hale line is located in the La Maison de Fashion showroom and can be pre-ordered. Contact La Maison de Fashion at 7471 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles,CA 90046. Phone:(323)658-8008.
Special Thanks: J, Taylar Aguilar, La Maison de Fashion, Alana Hale and models
The Chateau Marmont is like a small picturesque castle out of a fairy-tale; covered in vines and hidden away off the Sunset Strip. It was also the setting for the LOFT (formally Ann Taylor LOFT) Fall 2010 Style Studio Press Preview and Cocktail Party. The soiree was held in the lovely penthouse, which had a deck that offered a panoramic view of Los Angeles and the surrounding cities.
Each of the rooms in the penthouse was decorated in the “LOFT” lifestyle- chic and classy, which a homey feel and had models (including my friend, Brita) lounging around and showing off the latest collection “Perfect 10″ by the Style Studio and hosted by celebrity stylist, Nicole Chavez. Some of my favorite pieces included: the gold and black angular necklace with black ribbon tie, the navy and white striped cardigan, chunky tweed mini, the the black/white blousy top knit dress.
Along with viewing the collection, I caught up with friends (and found out that Orlando Bloom and Adrian Grenier were in the bar downstairs) and mingled with actresses Brittany Snow and Kristen Bell and met the Creative Director of LOFT- Austyn Zung, who was wearing a stunning chain and clear stone necklace by LOFT.
Upon my departure after the party, I received a LOFT canvas tote that also included the prized black and white angular necklace, a LOFT lookbook and jeweled cuff.
I attended a small party of DIYers at the North Hollywood studio of eco-friendly designer, Deborah Lindquist. The event was hosted by Lindquist and Taryn Hipwell of EcodivasTV. Party-goers needed to bring an old sweater and then they could chose appliques and do their own designing from recycled scraps of cashmere. Deborah also gave hands-on demos on various ways of implementing their designs . Depending on the intricacy of the appliques, prices ranged from $25-75, which is a great deal if you’re unable to afford the $375-500 price tag.
Both women thought it was a great idea to have a DIY event. According to Deborah, “I want to create a sense of playfulness and creativity in the group. I think it’s good timing because the economy is not back on track yet and we all need to support each other, have some fun and lighten up.”
While at the party, I had a chance to look at the design studio and browse the collections. I also had the chance to try on a couple gorgeous bustier dresses. Deborah has always been an eco-designer. Having graduated from Parsons then working her way into missy, junior sleepwear and lingerie; followed by infant and toddler boys before starting her own business. She started with belts and jewelry for nine years then went on to vintage fabric jackets and bustiers. Now, she is known for vintage cashmere sweaters, bustiers and t-shirts (and also designs killer wedding gowns). She has quite a celebrity following, including: Sharon Stone, Pink, Keyshia Cole, Kelis, Wendie Mallick, Christina Aquilera and Gwen Stefani. The cashmere ranges from $90-700, t-shirts from $40-150 and wedding gowns from $700-3,000. She also now has a collection called “Green Queen” and is a line of organic cotton and is very affordable at $40 a shirt.
To get the inside scoop on future events (including more DIY parties) and other updates, sign up for Deborah’s mailing list. To find out more and shop the collection, go to www.deborahlindquist.com. The design studio and boutique is located at 5657 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood. Ph: (818)762-7199. Hours are Monday-Friday 9-5.
Special Thanks: J, Deborah Lindquist and Taryn Hipwell, as well as the guests!
“The average Facebook fan page has around 130 fans…”
This was just one of the facts I learned at the FGILA’s panel regarding the social media phenomenon (i.e. Facebook, Twitter…Myspace-not so much…), as well as brand development, rules of social networking, and the how-to’s of utilizing blogs and social networks to create awareness for products. The panelists included some of the best in journalism, blogging and social media: Macala Wright Lee- the founder of marketing blog fashionablymarketing.me; Jennine Jacob-founder of The Coveted and Independent Fashion Bloggers; Crosby Noricks-founder of PRCouture.com; and Staci Riordan- who is the Chair of the Fox Rothschild Fashion Law Practice Group and has a blog as well.
The meeting was held on the Westside (and sadly, was crazy mad getting to on the 405 during rush hour, but nevertheless, I wasn’t too late getting there). The entire discussion was indeed helpful to me, as a blogger and here are some highlights of the evening…
It’s a two-way street when building a relationship with a blogger. We should treat each other as if it could turn into a potential business relationship. Staci Riordan brought up that “internet and social media is about relationships and building those relationships.” Macala Lee Wright brought up ’sticky traffic’- traffic which a blogger wants because the people are loyal and keep coming back. John Arguelles, the chair of FGILA, brings up the issue of Facebook vs. LinkedIn. He dropped his LinkedIn when he found that Facebook was more practical. He now has a Facebook for his group, product and personal needs. Macala added that it was best to just focus on the one (Facebook or Twitter) that works best for you. Scooter Girls founder, Arlene Battishill also discussed her success with Twitter and how it has helped her business. The topic moved on to the tools used to monitor traffic, such as Google Analytics- which I use and it’s gratis (free), Omniture- expensive and Kissmetrics.com-new. Crosby Noricks discussed a new trend among teenage girls- hauling, which is when they make short videos of themselves showing off what they’ve recently purchased. Otherwise known as video-blogging. The average video is around two minutes. I’m going to finish with the importance of Twitter. All the panelists find it extremely powerful in that they would tweet about a bad experiece and have so many responses. Jennine Jacob recommended documenting and sharing your experiences, whether good or bad; as an example, she described her awful experience at Zara with FOUR of the salespeople. She posted it on her blog and received at least a hundred comments with people sharing similiar experiences.
Our society is growing more and more technological every day. We are now more dependent on our iphones, blackberrys and ipads as a source to scour the internet. Jennine suggested that developing your site to be more mobile would be very essential. There is also an app in development that whenever you see a pair of shoes on your favorite TV show you want, you can just push a button and boom, you bought it and it’s being shipped to your house.
Special Thanks: J, Elizabeth Matthews, FGILA, Emily Heintz, the panelists, Ron Friedman-moderator, Arlene Battishill, John of Mon Atelier, and Mary Hall of the blog, The Recessionista.
Illustration by Simone Elum
Illustration by June Chanpoomidole
