“Hooray for Hollywood” Fashion Show & Fundraiser

Posted on October 30, 2011 by admin

So my new good friend, Miss Norma Jean Hughes (you may know her from my spotlight on her lovely shop- Deja Vu Fashions in Claremont) told me she was putting on a small fashion show, featuring mens and womens clothing from the shop. It was held at St. Madeleine’s Catholic Church in Pomona. This was Norma’s second time working with the ‘Catholic Daughters of the Americas‘ in putting on a fashion show and every year, the event keeps getting bigger. The group is an international non-profit organization dedicated to funding any church-related events. Norma told me she has really enjoyed working with the group and loves that these young adults are so involved in the church. This year, the fashion show and fundraiser was held in the welcoming atmosphere of the church hall. Before the show, patrons were able to purchase handmade jewelry designed by jewelry-making students of jewelry designer Margaret Velarde, who was also modeling in the show. We also partook in a home style chicken dinner. The runway show was somewhat informal, with decorative dark purple floral arrangements marking the sides of the “runway.” As each model took their turn on the runway, Norma spoke about the outfit (like if it’s vintage and the brand). Brands such as: Quicksilver, Chanel (some vintage), St. John, Whiting & Davis, Gucci, Dior, Tadashi and Sherry made their debut on the St. Madeleine’s runway that evening. It was such a pleasure attending the low-key event and I’m looking forward to next year’s show!

Special Thanks: Norma; Helen Uceda (who organized the event); the models: Vanessa, George, Helen, Naomi, Danni, Eddy, Xochilt, Karla, Margaret, Evan, Josefina and Lisa; the other volunteers of the evening; St. Madeleine’s church, which is located at 931 East Kingsley Ave. in Pomona.

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Project Ethos Private Label

Posted on October 29, 2011 by admin

I was beyond thrilled when designer- Ermelinda Manos personally emailed me, inviting me to view her collection during the Project Ethos Private Label fashion show at Tru Hollywood; along with the alternative brand-Marialia. The show started somewhat later than expected, but luckily I was sitting on a comfy plush couch and talking with fellow attendees to pass the time. When the show started, Ermelinda’s collection was the first to go down the runway. It was everything I expected….beautiful, flowy and ethereal. The theme for her collection is “Hopeless Romantic”, inspired by Southern France. She drew her inspiration for the soft color palette from the buildings of South France. She also added fun gold accents and vibrant colors to make the collection pop. The collection is mostly hand-sewn and is meant to be mixed n’ matched and taken from day to evening. The collection ranges from $80-400. For more information on Ermelinda Manos, go here. After a somewhat long intermission, Marialia Pacitto showcased her S/S 2012 collection. Her theme was “The Jungle” and emphasized animal prints and jewel tones. I loved the Hello Kitty-esque bows that the models wore and thought that the glitter eye shadow was an added bonus. She showcased an assortment of garments; ranging from swimwear to day wear, club wear and evening wear. I thought that the maxi dresses were nice and I’m a fan of the black strapless dress with chiffon maxi skirt and short halter dress with bubble leopard-print skirt. For more information on Marialia and to shop the line, go here.

Thank you Project Ethos for putting on another great show! Thank you for having me and it was great seeing your collections, Ermelinda and Marialia!!

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Gen Art’s “Fresh Faces in Fashion”

Posted on October 28, 2011 by admin

I had the pleasure of attending the (newly relaunched) Gen Art “Fresh Faces in Fashion” at historical Vibiana in downtown LA during LA Fashion Week. I got all gussied up a’la ’50s tulle princess’ and headed to the show. This time, Gen Art featured the Spring 2012 collections of: We Are Handsome, Dear Creatures, Odylyne, Chambers, 71 Stanton, Funktional and Stand & Deliver. There were also installations out in the courtyard by: Iman Toloui, Plomo, Sticks & Stones and Tom Tom. The show was hosted by the lovely actress (Gen Art alum and co-owner of MYFDB)- Zoe Saldana. The event was packed, but luckily I was able to sit my little be-hind on the floor in the media pit smack dab in front of the runway (huge plus for superb runway shots). First up was the Australian swimwear line- We Are Handsome presented first. I love their chic swimwear and the cool prints that are emblazoned on the garments. It’s always nice to see a change from the usual solid colors and floral, polka-dot and rainbow prints. The next line to show was Dear Creatures. Even the name, Dear Creatures sounds like something out of a fairy-tale… Their clothes were cute, whimsical and feminine. They also featured a couple Melie Bianco for Dear Creatures handbags that nicely complemented the looks. The next brand, Odylyne, was one of my favorite brands of the evening. They enlightened the audience with their menagerie of flowy, bohemian maxi dresses and separates, as well as fun head wear that was comprised of stones, beading and polished rock. Who knew dressing like a hippie could be this glamorous?! One of the highlights of the presentation was when the expecting and glowing designer- Stephanie Lampkin took a bow. She (like her collection) was just too adorable for words! LA-based menswear brand- Chambers introduced very casual separates that are meant to be worn everywhere. For a further look inside the brand, go here. 71 Stanton showcased a lux-sporty collection (if you will). The name 71 Stanton was derived from the year the designer-Ellis was born and the city in OC she moved to in 1994. I loved her use of juxtaposing more ‘California casual’ fabrics like jersey with more lavish fabrics like silks and chiffons. Check out 71 Stanton’s website here. The next line- Funktional had a semi-tribal theme to it (hence the models tribal-esque-inspired make-up). Again, the looks were effortless yet chic…coinciding with the California lifestyle. I did notice a hints of a vintage feel in the dresses and the pants. I loved the 80s-style floral pant and the 70s-style high-waist, wide-leg trouser. Other fun pieces included a lingerie-inspired dress with pleating and lace trim, as well as the multi-print fishtail skirt. Funktional’s “oh-la-la” moment came at the end, when a model wearing an intense Native dress harness strutted down the runway. Check out Funktional here. The last brand to walk down the runway was rebellious Stand and Deliver. The line is inspired by Kings Road in the year 1977 and has enough leather, spikes, studs and chains to make Lady Gaga swoon. S & D’s presentation also turned into a performance, as a male model skateboarded on the runway until another male model entered his territory-thus setting the stage for a mock brawl between the two. I forgot to mention that before the ‘fight’, a male and female model got together in one corner of the stage and hosted a make-out session. Oh… all in the good nature of mixing the fashion and entertainment industries… Check out Stand and Deliver here and on Facebook.

For more information and to become a member of Gen Art, go here. Welcome back Gen Art!!

**Please Note: Some of the photos towards the end of slideshow contain (topless) nudity**

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LA Market Week (Oct. 2011 edition)

Posted on October 26, 2011 by admin

Whew, it’s been quite a whirlwind of adventures and this past LA Market Week was just one of them. There was the usual tradeshows, like FOCUS, SELECT, Designers & Agents and Transit, but I was also introduced to the latest edition to the montage of shows- COEUR, which I will discuss a little later. But first, I’d like to introduce some new brands I discovered while hanging out at the California Market Center.

Moda Revise and Wave (LA Unlimited Apparel Group)

I e-met Moda Revise’s (pronounced reveesee) designer- Stella Chang a few weeks before the show and got somewhat acquainted with the line of handbags. I enjoyed seeing the line in person and loved that not only is she the designer, but her artwork is also featured on the bags. The art work is very Japanese and Manga inspired. I really admire the amount of detail that she put in the artwork and designing the bags. For more information, check out Moda Revise here. I also wanted to mention that I saw a beautiful floral jumpsuit in the same booth (both repped by LA Unlimited Apparel Group) designed by the German brand- Wave.

Costella Handbags

I was browsing the booths when I spotted shapes in gleams of metallic bronze and gold. Then I randomly spotted my friend, Isabelle (designer of IDNYC), who introduced me to Luciana Ellington- owner of Costella Handbags. She founded Costella in 2007 and using the sewing skills she learned from her Grandmother, creates exquisite unique handbags styles that are also presented in a limited quantities. My faves are the metallic ‘Gold Croco’ and ‘Spring Wood’ clutches. What’s also neat about the clutches is that they also expand. This is such a unique collection and a lot of hard work goes into making each bag. Check out more Costella here.

Sendra Boots/2568

Spanish brand-Sendra Boots has been around for awhile, since 1913. They are known for their edgy, western styles; as well as their equestrian, biker and fashion boots. Check out the Sendra Boots website here. Sendra also has a sister brand called 2568. 2568 was created after a trip down to Guatemala, where the designers discovered a village full of artisans creative beautiful and colorful textiles. The line uses only fair-trade materials and retails from $50-200.

Mellie J Showroom

I was browsing SELECT when a friendly “Hello!” caught me sort of off-guard. I returned the greeting and walked over to the booth. The woman introduced herself as Melanie Flood, owner of Mellie J Showroom in London. She reps several lines, two of which I was drawn to- Laga from Spain and London-based brand, Tofu. Each brand had interesting characteristics that I loved. For example, Laga was very girly with vintage-inspired prints. Tofu offered 60s mod-inspired baby doll dresses that Twiggy would fall head-over-heels in love with (cause I know I sure did)! Melanie also offers a sample-sale site, which you can check out here. I just wanted to personally say thank you to Melanie and Johanna for your hospitality and kindness and for gifting me the GORGEOUS Laga floral maxi dress and Laga vintage-inspired locket necklace!

Henri Lou Jewelry/Handbags

I spotted this jewelry line at SELECT as well and thought their bracelets would make great options for the “armparty craze” that is currently trending. The bracelets are handmade from the best suede and leather that come in a variety of colors and adorned with a brass or sterling silver ring. Designer-Reagan Rowland drew her inspiration while at a saddle shop during a trip to the ghost town of Calico (off the 15 between Barstow and Vegas). To shop the line and get more information on Henri Lou Jewelry, check out the website.

What Goes Around Comes Around

What Goes Around Comes Around is a prestigious vintage boutique based in NYC, but also has a shop here in LA on La Brea. They carry high-end vintage, as well as contemporary brands that complement the vintage. They also have their own WGACA brand of vintage-inspired pieces (which they showed at the Designers & Agents show). I fell in love with every piece. The prints were rich in color and texture. Everything is versatile and can be mixed ‘n matched to create the perfect day-at-the-office look or a show-stopping red-carpet ready outfit. Check out the WGACA site here.

Bella Luxx

I don’t know why I didn’t discover this lux t-shirt brand sooner! Can we say, “hello new daytime uniform!” Bella Luxx is based in LA and offers high-quality tees, dresses and jumpsuits. The design team- Danny, Harris and Marco DeGeorge base their brand off of the laid back yet chic California lifestyle where “less is more”. When I browsed the racks at the booth, I was able to feel the fabric, which is called ‘Tissue Jersey’ and comprised of 90% Modal and 10% Silk… it literally felt like tissue. It was so soft and delicate (definitely handle with care when cleaning the garment). I wanted the tees in every cut and color, as well as the maxi dresses and jumpsuits. You can easily dress every style up or down. Definitely check out Bella Luxx, you’ll thank me later!

Now, let me present COEUR- a premiere women’s home, gift and accessories show that debuted this past LA Market Week. COEUR means “heart” in French and offers more sophisticated, timeless, avant-garde collections for the discriminating consumer. The show boasted a lounge by Matters of Space, an installation by Society for Rational Dress and a Cash & Carry Pop-Up by A Current Affair and a coffee bar by Fix Coffee. So, without further ado, here are some brands I discovered at COEUR.

Marie Turnor Handbags

I adored the sleek envelope clutches that came in solid and color-blocked hues. If you’ve ever been stumped on what to wear (handbag-wise) to a picnic…then I think I have your answer- The Picnic Clutches that are inspired by the paper lunch sack that is typically rolled up at the top. Such a cute idea, right?! The designer-Miss Beth Goodman, also is a firm believer that “less is more,” which is true in the case of her brand. I think that the simplicity of the brand is what makes it stand out in lux minimalism. Check out Marie Turnor Accessories here.

Ona Chan Jewelry

I had pleasure of meeting designer Ona Chan and her assistant-Elena during the show. I loved how Ona presented one collection of her line in glass vases filled with water, greenery and rocks. That collection is aptly named “Water” and is inspired by the flowing water of rivers, oceans and relaxing baths. Her other collections include: “Bark”-which is a 100% organic line that reflects growth, change and life that centers around colorful gems. “Facets”- simple yet sexy and modern. “Mimi Too”- Inspired by Ona’s daughter’s drawings of her friends. “Love” and lastly, “Virtues”- which is inspired by Ona’s Chinese background. Such a great line! Please go here for more information on Ona Chan Jewelry! I also want to thank Ona for gifting me a lovely bracelet from her “Virtues” line.

Bliss Lau

I met the talented designer behind the NYC-based Bliss Lau jewelry line- Bliss while at COEUR. The Parsons grad has been designing her signature body chains for six years now. Her body chains are stunning and are draped to resemble the shape of different parts of the body. She also gets her inspiration from the New York architecture, especially the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building. Loved every piece! Check out Bliss Lau here.

Corina Haywood~ Modern Millinery

As a fellow head piece maker, it excited me to stumble across Corina Haywood’s booth. I just LOVED her collection of sculpted avant-garde works-of-art! She launched her line in 2001 and along with hat-making, she also teaches workshops at various locations around LA. More more information, check out her website!

Other notable booths I checked out include MAL jewelry. I loved the “Crocodile Skin” cuff and necklace, “Leather Collar” necklace and the “Pyramid” pieces. Such beautiful work by this NYC designer. There were also two more jewelry designers: LA-based Gilda Grey, known for colorful, bohemian designs; and Gabriela Artigas, another LA-based designer. I loved her simple, geometric shapes on necklaces and rings. My dear designer friend- Jenny Dayco showed me some new pieces to her collection. I LOVE the tribal-inspired bracelets! She also launched cute turban headbands and scarves. Ladies, I would highly recommend checking out Commandos by Her Look. They produce quality seamless undies, slips, strong panty hose that won’t run and other ‘ladies-only’ accessories. Since I’m a huge fan of sunglasses, I checked out the Thierry Lasry booth. LOVE all the styles! Very vintage-y and are a celebrity favorite. Can’t do an island getaway this year, well, why not bring a little island to your feet? Bali Soles is a chic brand of sandals that is not only great for the beach, but great to spice up any outfit for just about any occasion. Lastly, for all you vintage lovers out there, I’m sure you’ve heard of the handbag brand- Whiting & Davis?! They are still around (since 1876) and still making gorgeous Art Deco and Victorian-inspired metal mesh handbags, clutches and even iPad cases. They also offer modern and contemporary designs as well and are a huge celebrity favorite (and this blogger’s too)!

I want to thank the folks at California Market Center, Alyson Bender (PR), Gregory for redoing my hair at the pop-up salon by Oliver Ifergan Atelier, DJ Kiino Villand the brands and designers.

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Directives West (Oct. 2011 edition)

Posted on October 25, 2011 by admin

The October 2011 Directives West showing of Spring 2012 trends and fashions was held on the patio at the California Market Center in LA’s fashion district. The show was hosted by guest ‘GLAM-bassadors’: Kelly Lee of the fashion and style blog- BussBuss, Kristen Turner of the popular DIY blog, Glitter n’ Glue and celebrity stylist and blogger- Lauren Shane of Elshane.

Trends that were highlighted during the show include (all info on trends is courtesy of Directives West):

Social Heritage

~Cultivate a return to crisp basics and delicate heirloom wovens as thoughts of simpler times fill the air for spring. American vintage is a romanticized expression of a roll-up-your-sleeves attitude, leisure and effortless dressing.

World Treasures

~Celebrate diversity through multicultural escapes and limitless boundaries. A free spirit floats through a world of curiousity as Eastern influences along with Sahara sands are crafted with strength and grace.

Rapture

~Striking imagery, clashing graphics and mismatched combinations empower her. Embrace the theatrics as well as the digital cosmos. Fluidity seeps through this hyperactivity in new zenith dimensions.

The Sophisticate

~Futuristic minimalism continues as we embrace a deconstructed and transparent world. Flat and simply structured fabrics communicate harmony and composure while luminescence shines through.

The runway presentation boasted several looks from each trend from brands such as: Whitney Eve, Cameo, Skies are Blue, Ketz-Ke, Again, Miilla, Willow & Clay, J.A.K, Plastic Island, Language, Kersh, Gracia, Blondes Make Better T-Shirts, go.make.noise., Lolly, Denimocracy, etc. I personally loved pieces from Again, Skies are Blue, Whitney Eve and Cameo. I’m happy to see that the tribal print and mixing ‘n matching prints/patterns/graphics will still be around, as well as the chiffon maxi skirt and pant(which I’m currently obsessing over!). I wasn’t a huge fan of the fishtail hemline at first, but after seeing the ways it was styled on the runway, it got me to change my mind and I think I’ll be including it in my wardrobe. I love that color-blocking is still a favorite trend for Spring as well, and that you can play around with the colors, like putting together an outfit with bright colors one day or neutral shades the next. After seeing the show, I am eager to start putting together my Spring 2012 wardrobe! How about YOU?? What are your favorite Spring 2012 must-haves/trends??

Special Thanks: Lauren Stillman, the Directives West team, models, brands, The California Market Center, Kristen, Kelly and Elshane.

**I posted the clothing brands & my fave picks with the pictures!**

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OC Blogger Bash (10/9/2011)

Posted on October 12, 2011 by admin

I was invited to attend the 60s Mad Men themed OC Blogger Bash at the Anaheim Convention Center this past Sunday…well…rather, I did go, but before the bash, I had entered a contest (and won) that allowed me to walk the runway in the Queen of Heartz fashion show during the event. I arrived at the venue earlier in the day for make-up and hair, made myself “at home (if you will)” and enjoyed the company of fellow models: Lenaye, Katelyn, Jacky (blogger at Snobby Hippy), Pat, Nina and Yolie ; Letty (Queen of Heartz designer); Letty’s assistant-Jami; fellow bloggers/models: Romy of Romy Raves and Lexi Rohner of 30 Fingers and 30 Toes. Before the fashion show, we had a chance to mingle with fellow fashionable SoCal bloggers and get some 60s-inspired treats like candy cigarettes, popcorn, cheeses, crackers and other finger foods, pizza, Pepsi out of the old glass bottles, mini Baked Alaska, pineapple pound cakes, open bar, (get ready for this guys…) two different flavors of shakes: Guinness and Peanut Butter & Jelly! You’re probably thinkin, peanut butter and jelly?! But when I had that first sip, I was blown-away! It’s like a liquid sundae in your mouth! I also want to mention that when I asked the chef that was in charge of the pizza and mini slider station if there was an option for vegetarian pizza, he said yes, but went out of his way to get it for me and then went on to ask if I wanted a slider without the meat… How thoughtful was that!? Not many people go out of their way like that. In also keeping with the 60s theme, a ‘old-fashioned drive-in’ had been set up, complete with two classic cars and a projector that was screening old movies from 1961.

The 60′s inspired Queen of Heartz fashion show was such a blast. We rode down the long escalator like ten steps apart and did our thang…Posing and “voguing” in front of the large crowd. The audience (and us) were treated to some ‘eye candy’ courtesy of The Daily Hot Guy. And ladies, there IS an app for that! Whew…ok, now back to the fashion… I wore the Ruca dress, which fit me PERFECTLY! Usually I’m not a fan of body con dresses, but I felt very confident in the dress. I loved that the v-neck offered a tasteful amount of sexiness. The sequin applique on the shoulder added a nice hint of subtle sparkle to the dress and the front panels on the front hips just accented the waist and hip area beautifully. I am now a fan of Anaheim-based Queen of Heartz brand! Not only is the designer-Letty, a doll, but her designs are made to fit all body types. Some of the garments are made to hug your curves (in all the right places). Fans of the pin-up and rockabilly scene certainly appreciate the couture vintage feel and the quality of the garments. To check out and shop the line, go here.

After the show, we did more mingling, while listening to the in-house band. I bumped into Shannah from The Student Stylist and Mary from The Recessionista and we gabbed the night away. Guests also had the chance to get snapped in the photo booth. We had to pose four times and each of the photos backdrops was a famous OC landmark. They awarded so many amazing prizes that night (apparently over $60,000 worth), that I believe everyone won something. Prizes ranged from bowling parties to spa visits and hotel stays. My name was eventually called, along with five others. We each picked out an orange envelope at random. When the host announced my prize, I was overwhelmed with excitement. I ended up winning a Disney vacation package that included two 1-day park hopper tickets, one night stay at one of the Disney hotels and a character breakfast…courtesy of the Anaheim Convention and Visitors Bureau! Every guest went home with a vintage-inspired tin lunchbox with retro sunnies, a scarf, tin of chocolates, a small compact, a few small goodies from Anaheim CVB and Disney and TWO COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS to Knott’s Berry Farm! Let’s just say, I’m sure everyone went home a happy-camper!

I want to thank: Shari and the rest of the OC Blogger Bash team ; Letty; Jami; the models; the hair and make-up team: Irene Dorantes, Rae Rodriguez, Lindsey McNally and Priscilla Martin; the Anaheim Convention Center, Elaine and the rest of the crew from Anaheim CVB; the ladies of Moms LA; the folks from The Daily Hot Guy, the folks of Photo Booth Pro and all the generous sponsors.

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A Current Affair (September 2011 Edition)

Posted on September 29, 2011 by admin

Mr. Wainwright, you’ve done it again! Another “A Current Affair” show in the bag and what a success it was! For those that aren’t quite familiar with “A Current Affair,” it’s a two day-long pop-up marketplace of some of the best vintage retailers around, located in the Penthouse of the Cooper Design Space. The event is co-curated by Richard Wainwright of NEW/FOUND and Joey Grana of Scout. There is usually an installation curated by a famous stylist or designer. Melissa Coker of Wren styled (and hosted) this past show. September’s show boasted over twenty-five exhibitors and each booth has an overwhelming amount of vintage goodness. Marie Monsod, whose showroom is located in LA (by appointment only), had an amazing selection of 80s sequins and belts. I was also gushing over the jewelry, hats and purses! She has vintage dating from the 1920s to early 1990s. My friend and vintage dealer, the lovely Kimberly Truhler of GlamAmor was showing her adundance of simple but very chic coats and dresses (that are perfect for color-blocking). She was wearing a sample from her new vintage-inspired GlamAmor Originals line and the dress was darling! Again, if you want to perfect the color-blocking, Kimberly has what you need. Her new line as well as the vintage pieces she sells can take you from the office to an evening out just by adding a few accessories. Before the show, a vintage dealer befriended me on Facebook (gotta love it) and upon seeing the name on the vendors list, I just had to meet the owner! So, I would like to introduce Sainte-Marie Vintage, owned by Sissy Sainte-Marie Chacon. I loved how she paired a vintage dress with 80s metal belt and Jeffrey Campbell ‘Litas.’ I learned that along with her vintage store, she is also in a band with her hubby, called The Polyamorous Affair. She offered a great selection, including funky pair 80s/90s pants, a sweater with metal beading and a fabulous black jumper with metal embellishment. Check out the Saint-Marie Vintage Facebook page here. My other friend, miss Lacey Stevenson of Classic Clutches was showcasing her impressive amount of clutches, dating from 1930s through 1990s. It was taking everything I had to not buy out the entire booth that evening! I stopped by Martin Atelier due to the sequin pieces (yes, as I’m sure ya’ll know by now, I’m OBSESSED with vintage sequins) and the fun jewelry and hats. Martin Atelier is owned by Chris Martin and Juan Martin del Campo Jr. and offer unique clothing and accessories that dates from every era. For an appointment, call (323)244-9722 or email them at: mysecretlife@mac.com. It was pleasure meeting Vu-owner/designer of the Seattle-based store, The Vutique. The majority of the vintage pieces have been reworked and reimagined by him into looks for the modern-day customer. I spotted a Missoni jumpsuit among the goods and other fabulous 80s purses. There was a booth next to Vutique that had two OMG beautiful sequin dresses that were directly in my focal point. I was introduced to the very sweet Rodellee Bas, the owner of the online store- AdoreVintage. She carries ultra-feminine finds dating from 1900s to 1970s. Most of the dresses I saw looked like they came out of a fairy-tale…dreamy, sheer, flowy, floral patterns….(sigh). Next, I ventured on and spotted an exhibitor wearing an innovative 80s-inspired outfit. Meet Liz Baca of The Goods! By Liz Baca, which is based in Oakland. I loved how she organized her ‘goods’ by color and trend. She had a great selection of comfy sweaters, ready to be worn in the next month or so. Since one of the trends is tribal and western, she had plenty of items to make that trend work for the vintage-loving consumer. And ahem… she had a marvelous supply of GUCCI purses! Check out more goods here! Other fabulous finds from that night include a Marimekko and Oscar de la Renta dress from the Fashion by Robert Black booth. Fashion by Robert Black is owned by Robert Black and Doreen Picerne (who are both wonderfully hospitable) and is based in Scottsdale, AZ.

And those are just a few of the many exhibitors showing at the marketplace! Bet you can’t wait for the next “A Current Affair”, huh?! There’s another one in December!! For more information, check out the website here.

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Pop-Up Shop @ Em & Co. Featuring Lisa Michelle Collection…

Posted on September 26, 2011 by admin

I stopped by Em and Co. for one of their pop-up shop events, featuring one of my designer friends- Lisa Michelle Felsenthal, designer of Lisa Michelle Collection. She was featuring pieces from her line, along with Petro Zillia, Tiffany Kunz Designs, Tatiana and Black Tree Couture. Lisa showed me some new pieces from the Holiday 2011 collection, including a feminine draped dress with a single shoulder strap. Lisa wore the dress and I saw it on another attendee as well; I must say that it is one of my faves. It hugs the curves in all the right places and very goddess-like. It’s perfect for a red carpet event! She pointed out a new jacket that was stunning. It’s versatile and would look fabulous with a great pair of flared or skinny jeans for daytime and then throw on the jacket with a simple knee-length dress and pumps for an evening out. I love the cut and style of the jacket, and my eyes were immediately drawn to the paint brush-stroke print. Lisa also showed me her new accessories, like dainty sequin and jeweled-embellished cuffs, headbands and belts, as well as the fun sequin bib necklaces. Check out more of the Lisa Michelle Collection here. Jewelry designer- Xavier Madera was showing some pieces from his Black Tree Couture line. My favorites were the necklaces that were made from vintage clear Burberry beads. Overall the line, which has won over the hearts of many celebrities, is very fresh and fun. Check out Black Tree Couture here. The whole event was very exciting. It was great meeting new designers and seeing familiar faces. Be sure to check out Em & Co., as they are always hosting events and pop-up shops!

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Debutante Clothing Showroom Grand Opening

Posted on September 15, 2011 by admin

I was beyond overjoyed when my friend, fellow blogger and fellow lover-of-all-things-vintage, Ms. Sandra D, opened her new vintage showroom in downtown Pomona in a 1932 Art Deco building (that was once home to a daily newspaper). She held the Grand Opening celebration during Pomona’s Art Walk and guests were able to shop, mingle and have some champagne. The space is small, but hospitable, with a small changing area and a lounge. Everything was neatly organized and the clothes hung on pretty pink felt hangers. The pink curtains that hung on the large windows added a more feminine touch and complemented Sandra’s bubbly personality. Now, the vintage…O…M…G… Beautiful and wearable variety of coats, tops, skirts and dresses from the 1940s-1980s. Can we also say vintage Dior, Halston, Chanel, Gucci, Lanvin, Givenchy, Chloe and Celine??? Yes, exactly…. some of the many vintage designer brands that are offered at Debutante! Prices for the vintage goodness are fairly reasonable, but more upscale; ranging from $20-120 for accessories and $80-400 for dresses and coats. Please be aware that Sandra doesn’t hold normal store hours. She’ll be open once a month (usually during Pomona Art Walk) or unless otherwise specified (like for a trunk show), or by appointment. The showroom is located at 300 S. Thomas Street, Suite 312 in downtown Pomona (on the corner of Thomas and Third Streets). There is also a free parking lot directly across the street on Thomas. You may contact her via her blog/website, Facebook or Twitter. Also, be sure to check out her other site, Vintage Find It, which is a great site for finding unique vintage pieces for fashion and home.

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Fashion’s Night Out: Rodeo Drive 90210 & Ron Robinson

Posted on September 12, 2011 by admin

I was invited to attend the Fashion’s Night Out festivities in Beverly Hills, as well as to partake in the exclusive blogger/media pre-party on the rooftop of the upscale boutique hotel-Luxe Rodeo Drive. The view from the penthouse shindig was breathtaking and the weather was perfect. I met some very fashionable bloggers, like: Folake from Style Pantry, Jovanna from East of Highland, Lauren from The Daily Truffle, Romy from Romy Raves, Alexandra Bower of Beverly Hills Mom and others. I enjoyed the view, chatted it up with fellow bloggers munched on a mini-caprese kabob and sipped on the raspberry soup, which was so delicious! Later, I headed down to Rodeo Drive to take in all the action. It was crowded, but the people watching was amazing! I loved the street style and the creative outfits people had on. I checked out the Guilt City booth, where you could sign up with them and get one free service, like a massage or a mini-makeover. I received the neck and shoulder massage, courtesy of the lovely Krystal from The Peninsula Spa, and it was amazzzzziiiinnnnnggggg! There was another booth where guests can create an IRIS by Cirque Du Soleil flipbook and of course, the iconic ferris wheel was the talk of the town. More than a hundred retailers hosted their own FNO shopping soirees. I checked out Chanel, which was incredibly crowded with fashionistas. They debuted three nail colours in different hues of blue, titled Les Jeans de Chanel. No LA party could not be without the food trucks: Coolhaus, Buttermilk Truck, Sprinkles Cupcakes and Waffles De Liege were among them.

After checking out the Beverly Hills FNO scene, I rushed over to Melrose to the Ron Robinson party. Unfortunately, I arrived late and missed the hostess of the evening- Kimora Lee Simmons, but still had the chance to meet and greet with a couple great jewelry designers- Ms. Sally Drennon and Ms. Caitlin Crosby. Caitlin owns The Giving Keys. When she told me the heartfelt story behind the company, I knew immediately that I had to spotlight this brand. After talking with a homeless couple (Cera and Rob) in Hollywood, Caitlin’s “ah-ha” moment hit her and she commissioned them to engrave the keys with inspirational words and ship out the product. From then on, abiding by her motto of PAYING IT FORWARD, she has employed the homeless in hopes of getting them off the streets and have a chance at a better life. The purpose of the key necklace is you wear until you see someone who you feel needs what the word says on the key (such as strength, passion, create…) and you give it to them (PAYING IT FORWARD).
I also had the chance to meet Sally Drennon of Drennon Design Jewelry. She is the sweetest lady who is an interior designer as well as makes stunning statement jewelry. She is self-taught and puts so much passion into her work. From what I noticed when looking at her collection, was that the skull pieces, the tassel pieces and the leather cuffs were the “it” pieces. My personal faves were the crystal tassel necklaces. I also met her partner, Hector- who does most of the metal casting. Drennon Design Jewelry is available at Ron Robinson and you can also check out her interior design website here. The entire event at the store was awesome and since it was my first time there, it was also quite overwhelming….Too many goodies! I saw a bracelet collection totally made from orthodontic materials in a variety of color patterns, called Bracedlets. Jeffrey Sebelia’s kids collection was showcased and I saw a little mini Gucci purse for tots. Another highlight of the event was the showing of photographer Patrick Hoelck‘s tees in collaboration with celebrity-cult brand Dirtee Hollywood. Some of the images from Patrick’s private collection were printed on the special-edition FNO tees. These are not your mother’s tees, but they are edgy and fun.

It was such a fun night and I’d like to thank Shana, the bloggers, the staff at the Guilt City booth, Krystal and the staff from The Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa, Charles-VP of Marketing for Luxe, Luxe Rodeo Drive for the amazing setup and friendly staff, Yanell from the Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors Bureau, the ladies from The Pollack PR Marketing Group, Karen and Colleen from Ron Robinson, Caitlin Crosby for your generosity, Sally and Hector, the staff at Ron Robinson. For more information on Rodeo Drive FNO, go here.

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