Chic Men

Malan Breton Enchants Crowd with Spring 2010 Collection

2009-09-16T04:01:00Z

On Monday, September 14, designer Malan Breton presented his Spring 2010 collection at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan. The collection contained his label's first menswear pieces in addition to the womenswear he is known for.

Breton, who competed on the third season of Project Runway, had front-row support from fellow Runway alums Diana Eng (Season Two) and Terri Stevens (Season Five). Holly Kiser and Ronnie Kroell (Make Me a Supermodel, Season One) made appearances on the runway. Style expert Nolé Marin, Real Housewives of New York City's Alex McCord, and TV correspondent Maria Menounos were also in attendance.

Inspired by his childhood dance background, Breton had previously described wanting his show "to feel like a night at the Hollywood Bowl or the Met, a night at the ballet." On this count, he delivered. The 30-piece orchestra, courtesy of the Chelsea Symphony, set the tone for the event, which was built around romance and luxury. The refined collection of suits, dresses, and separates was elegantly sumptuous in lace, silk, and tuille. The palette was mostly soft pastels and nudes, with the occasional pop of bright red and blue.

Halfway through the program, the audience members were treated to a taste of the ballet when a male dancer twirled his way up and down the runway to their surprised delight; a female dancer closed the show on a final graceful note.

The post-show buzz was overwhelmingly positive. Despite being pulled in all directions, from reporter to reporter and from friend to friend, Breton seemed endlessly patient and deeply appreciative of everyone's kind words.

Amid the swarm of activity, he graciously granted a brief moment to Chic Galleria. "I started in menswear; I used to make my own clothes," he explained. "So I kind of took my mental vision into womenswear and I just sort of rolled it back around this time for the men." Regarding his future designs, he laughed coyly. "I kind of like to surprise people!"

To keep up with him as he continues his creative journey, visit www.malanbreton.com.

Pictured: Lana fresca in poppy three-piece suit with cotton dress shirt; nude tank dress with nude camisole in silk with nude and gold hooded kimono sleeved jacket. Photos courtesy of Malan Breton.

Custo Barcelona Spring 2010 Collection: Party Under the Tent

2009-09-15T04:01:00Z

On Sunday, September 13, Custo Barcelona showed in The Tent--Bryant Park's largest Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week venue--for the first time. The packed tent's attendees--which included Ugly Betty's Mark Indelicato, Saturday Night Live's Kenan Thompson, America's Next Top Model judge Miss Jay, and socialite Tinsley Mortimer--bopped to the thumping club beat that set the stage for the fun and vibrant presentation.

Fans of designer Custo Dalmau's customary bright colors and breezy flash were not disappointed. Women walked the runway in fluttering dresses garnished with fringes; men were casually cool in suits with an eye-catching sheen. The parade of eye-popping hues evoked Mediterreanean beaches and a sexy party vibe.

The Spanish label has dressed Charlize Theron, Antonio Banderas, and Shakira. Visit www.custo-barcelona.com to learn more.

Photo Credit www.europapress.es

Malan Breton Presents His Spring 2010 Collection

2009-09-14T04:01:00Z

New York Fashion Week is in full swing and my friend, fashion designer Malan Breton, plans to kick off his show today with style. His Spring 2010 imbues a creative journey back to his roots as a dancer, exploring elements of his childhood when he began performing at the age of seven. The inspiration for his spring collection comes from the strength and form of the image "Flight of Freedom," a black-and-white image of his friend and Royal Ballet alumnus Leigh Alderson shot by Pritzel Photography.

"I will have a 30-piece orchestra playing the show, the Chelsea Symphony," reveals Breton. "I wanted the show to feel like a night at the Hollywood Bowl or the Met, a night at the ballet."

Presented by Style 360 and Rado Switzerland, the show will take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan (Sept. 14th at 11 am) and will mark this fashion Einstein's first foray into menswear, further expanding the Malan Breton Collection. He has already dressed celebrities including Minnie Driver, Kylie Minogue, Nikki Blonsky, and Katrina Bowden and soon he will be dressing Hollywood's finest men.

Malan has personally invited five Chic Galleria writers to attend. Photos and details to follow this week.

Chic Galleria Interviews Christopher Straub: Project Runway Season 6

2009-09-02T04:01:00Z

Season 6 of Project Runway is finally airing on Lifetime TV after much legal drama and a very long wait for fans. I remember Tim Gunn telling our New York based crowd at GMHC's Fashion Forward fundraiser last November they had just wrapped up the taping in Los Angeles. I'm sure the designers who appeared in Season 6 were ready for Lifetime to take over and the show to finally hit our television sets.

This season started out with Christopher Straub winning the Red Carpet Challenge in Episode 1. Christopher used 6-7 yards of cut petals to cover the top and the skirt of his gorgeous design. He spent over 10 hours machine stitching each one into place.

Christopher is a 30 year old visual merchandiser from Shakopee, Minnesota.

BA: Christopher, can you share a little bit about yourself and how you got started?

CS: I have always been an artist and have put my focus on fashion design within the past 10 years.

BA: Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?

CS: I am really inspired by nature and natural shapes. I look for repetition of leaves or ripples in the water...that sorta thing.

BA: What designs have been your favorites?

CS: If you're referring to which designs on the show have been my favorites...From the Red Carpet Challenge, episode 1, I LOVED Carol Hanna's and Irina's. They both know how to work with fine fabrics. From the prego challenge, episode 2, I liked mine the best.

BA: What are your future plans?

CS: I have been designing a collection of handbags and accessories for a major retailer. Also, I have a collection of men's and women's accessories available at www.christopherstraub.com.

Photo Credit: Kannie Yu LaPack@Lifetime Entertainment Services

Men's Fall Trend: Military Inspired Jackets

2009-08-31T04:01:00Z

D&G Men's Fall 2009 Collection. Photos Courtesy of men.style.com

No matter our feelings about the war, we all can agree to support our troops. And whereas these fall looks aren't exactly dress blues, D&G does play homage with these military-inspired looks in their fall collection.

Although the military look promises to be a trend this fall, that doesn't mean you should dig out your old camouflage fatigues -- or buy anything in that traditional army green. Shop for a jacket that goes well with both denim jeans as well as a pair of pants -- and that can easily go from day to night.

For All The Men Who Don't Want To Be Told What To Do: Part 2

2009-08-24T04:01:00Z

FYI - IT IS NOT OK TO ____________________

FILL IN THE BLANK

Make fun of/comment on every part of/ask unrelated questions during every television show and/or movie your partner may be watching just because it may not also interest you.

"Go commando" when wearing casual shorts if there is any chance you may be seen neighbors, family members, another human being (especially those no taller than your waist).

Work late/go out after work, not call and then respond grouchily "I already ate" like said partner is a gigantic idiot for not knowing or (b) complain that you didn't want to make dinner when your partner is working late because you "didn't want to cook only for yourself" and you didn't know the plan.

Tell a caller to "hold on" and then hand over the phone to ______________ (insert name of partner) when asked if you would like to meet for dinner/get together/go to a party.

Make your partner put the kids to bed every night because "they like you better" while you watch sports/Entourage/any Adam Sandler movie while half asleep on the couch.

Watch cat or dog run around with empty tissue boxes on its head.

Respond "BECAUSE YOU NEVER SHUT UP" when your partner's best friend asks you why you think she has not yet found a husband.

Yell at/be grouchy to/blame others when you determine that you left your book/coffee cup/briefcase/newspaper/gym bag on the roof of your car before driving away.

Stay at work/gym late until you know the kids are already in bed so you don't have to deal with bed time.

Challenge nephews to snort hot sauce for cash.

Refuse to see a doctor about snoring problem/sleep apnea and then complain that partner is not happy to receive your nudge at 4:30 AM for "a few hours of fun" before work.

Tell your partner "I am ready to go whenever you are" only to make him/her wait for you while you grab keys/take out some cash/put on shoes/go to the bathroom/wait for the commercial while waiting for you in the idling car.

NOT THAT ANYONE WOULD ACTUALLY DO THAT ...

Photo Credit © Dennis Owusu-ansah | Dreamstime.com

Chic Galleria Interview with Kenny Zimlinghaus

2009-08-18T04:47:00Z

I had the pleasure of chatting with comedian Kenny Zimlinghaus from Cosmo Radio's Wake Up With Taylor on Sirius 111 and XM 162. I started listening to the show about a year ago and just fell in love with it. Kenny is always "in good voice," a term that he favors on a daily basis. Ladies love him for his sense of humor and his astute sense of always knowing what they want, well at least I do! Men will love him too for his quick wit and sarcasm along with his vast knowledge of sports, which you can sometimes hear in his comedy shows.

DD: How did you get started as a comedian?

KZ: My start came when I was just turning in to fat pre-teen with an incredible amount of acne. I went to a girl's house. A girl I really wanted to impress. When I got there, her little brother came running up to me and was like "what are those bubbles on your face? and are you wearing a fat suit?" I was like "Uh...those are zitz and I'm fat". Then I cried and made a decision to block every real emotion I've ever had with jokes. I tell a lot of jokes. My first set was when I was 17 in NYC.

DD: What kind of material do most of your stand up shows consist of? Please see above.

DD: What makes you such a cool guy, besides the two packs of cigarettes a day, or the one flip flop & a bucket, or even the eight jackets?

KZ: I have very strong calves and it makes walking very smooth for me. So I flow.

DD: Who are some of your comedic idols or inspirations?

KZ: My father, My mother, Eddie Murphy, Zach Galifinakis, Chris Rock, My Uncle Bobby, My roomate Brendan and Bob The Plumber.

DD: How did you get started w/Cosmo radio?

KZ: I responded to an ad in the paper for an overly sensitive girl/boy with a body image problem who has the ability to listen to girls talk to one another for lengthy periods of time without wanting to shoot himself. I auditioned for the job.

DD: What's it like working/talking w/ 2 girl hosts plus your thousands of female listeners everyday?

KZ: I want to shoot myself. Just kidding. It's great.

DD: Being on a women's talk show, what do you think the best way to a woman's heart is?

KZ: Directly through her chest cavity.

DD: What do you do to stay in shape?

KZ: I'm in shape?

DD: Where can your fans see you next?

KZ: Anyone can check out www.zimlinghaus.com anytime. There is a lot of stuff on there. Also, I'm in a band called Food and our first single, "Bowl Better", is now available on itunes for only 99c. I'll be performing in Ypsilani, Michigan Saturday September 12th in the Riverside Arts Center. 7:30 show and 9:00 show. And always on Cosmo Radio, SiriusXM.

Jack Mackenroth Swims Away With Eight Medals

2009-08-11T04:44:00Z

Chic Galleria's fabulous friend Jack Mackenroth recently cleaned up with a whopping eight medals at this year's World Outgames 2009, after finishing up a very successful swimming meet at the sporting event that is held only once every four years and which encompasses over 20 sporting disciplines.

Jack took home two gold medals; one in the 50-meter freestyle with close to a personal best time of 26.63, and the second in a 4 x 50 freestyle relay. He also won silvers in the 50-meter breaststroke, the 100-meter freestyle, and the 4 x 50 and 4 x 100 medley relays. Additionally, he won two bronze medals in the 100-meter breaststroke and the 200-meter individual medley.

"I was really not expecting to win medals in all eight of my events," said Mackenroth. "Needless to say, I'm ecstatic. However, it's not just about winning medals. One of the most fun events was the Random Rainbow Relay where the meet organizers randomly picked swimmers from all different teams and we swam in a friendly relay with colored rainbow swim caps. It was a great way to meet swimmers from different countries."

Swimming is currently the most popular sport with over 900 swimmers participating. Several European National records were set during the course of the meet. The event was held in a 50-meter Olympic size pool, which is daunting to many Americans who are usually used to 25-yard pools. "I was most concerned about my first race, the 200-meter individual medley, because it was my longest distance and I have been out of the pool for two years since Project Runway. I've been lifting weights but it's no substitute for endurance training. I only started training seriously in the pool about six weeks ago. So when I won a bronze medal I was shocked."

To learn more about Jack Mackenroth or the World Outgames 2009, please visit www.jackmackenroth.com and www.copenhagen2009.org.

For All The Men Who Don't Want To Be Told What To Do

2009-08-07T04:01:00Z

FYI - IT IS NOT OK TO ____________________
FILL IN THE BLANK

* Interrupt a sentence and say "Can you just skip the buildup/descriptive narrative/extra stuff, and tell me what it is that you want (me to do/to tell me)?"

* Collared polo shirt + nylon, elastic waistband workout shorts + dime store foam flip flops ≠ an acceptable outfit (unless you are trying to escape from a fire and those are the only items near you)

* Act puzzled about why you don't have clean socks/underwear/t-shirts when you (a) leave your dirty socks/underwear/t-shirts in a pile on the floor next to the bed and/or (b) work out of a home office located ten feet from the laundry room.

* Try to guess which of your gay friends are "pitchers" and which are "catchers" at a dinner party.

* Read the paper and/or sit on the couch and watch sports/news/movies while you hear your co-parent arguing/struggling/pleading with the child(ren) to go to bed/take a bath/do homework/brush teeth/leave for school.

* Complain to your partner (who also works full time) that you (a) have been served the same meal more than once in a two to three week time frame and/or (b) have to eat leftovers.

* Inform your child(ren) that you will soon be getting a dog/pig/monkey/bearded dragon/ rat/cat/hamster/ferret/snake/tarantula/Siamese fighting fish or other living creature (a) unless you intend to solely and exclusively take care of it when the novelty wears off and (b) ask the day before picking up the animal "Is this a done deal or can we back out?"

* Announce happily that you have planned a Super Bowl/NCAA Championship/World Series/Stanley Cup "party" when what you really mean is that your friends are coming over and you need someone to provide maid/waitress services.

* Yell at/be grouchy to/blame others when trying to "direct connect" your own lost cell phone. (Helpful Tip: If you can hear the beep but cannot locate it, check your own pockets.)

* Complain about how tired/burnt/stressed you are when you come in the door after a "networking event" or "work thing" at the baseball/basketball/hockey/football/hockey game.

* Joke at your mother-in-law's dinner table about the time you paid your nine year old nephew a dollar to see him chew on a dirty sock from a mud-puddle.

NOT THAT ANYONE WOULD ACTUALLY DO THAT ...

Photo credit: © Alexey Demidov | Dreamstime.com

Jack Mackenroth Transforms Christina Aguilera

2009-07-30T04:40:00Z

Designing for a cause, reality TV star Jack Mackenroth, a leading contestant of season four of Project Runway, has signed on to design and dress a teddy bear in the likeness of Grammy Award-winning pop superstar Christina Aguilera for The Matthew Shepard Foundation's upcoming annual fundraiser.

Scheduled for Oct. 17, "Bear to Make a Difference" has become the largest annual fundraiser for the organization and has turned into a national event featuring celebrity teddy bears from all avenues of entertainment. Last year's event raised over $100,000.

"I'm happy to be a part of this amazing project, which will help bring more awareness to hate crimes that are committed against LGBT individuals in this country," says Mackenroth, who recently finished shooting a new TV pilot with co-star Kevin Christiana. "We still don't have equal protection under the law, but the Matthew Shepard Foundation is continuing to help change that."

The Matthew Shepard Foundation was founded by Dennis and Judy Shepard in memory of their 21-year-old son, Matthew, who in 1998 was tortured and murdered in his home state of Wyoming because he was gay.

To learn more about "Bear to Make a Difference" or The Matthew Shepard Foundation, please visit www.matthewshepard.com. For more information on Jack Mackenroth, please visit www.jackmackenroth.com.

See Why Guys Are Switching Their Underwear

2009-07-28T04:01:00Z

Quality. Design. Style. These are the few simple elements that have made /baskit/ underwear one of the hottest-selling men's underwear brands since 2002.

The company's success has mostly been attributed to its efforts in providing guys with a hip, comfortable alternative, especially for modern men who want underwear that fits both their lifestyles and their bodies. Baskit underwear focuses on making gear that fits well and has a bit of style so it is pleasing to both the body and the eye.

Today, seven years later, the /baskit/ brand has expanded to include its mainstream client base by creating products that men aren't afraid to wear. The breakthrough in the mainstream market is also evident in /baskit/'s advertising, which now includes graphics that appeal to the "everyman." And with its most recent video advertisement that has taken the blogging and online media world by storm, every man is sure to know that /baskit/ is the brand for them.

The video is a sequence of six average guys who strip down to their underwear, revealing their well-fit and fashionable /baskit/ underwear. The guys then proceed to take off their underwear and switch them with each other. But the one element about the video that appeals to most people is that average-looking guys are featured in the video as opposed to the typically muscular, overly handsome and clean-shaven guys most underwear companies are used to featuring in their advertisements.

"Various mainstream companies such as American Apparel, Abercrombie & Fitch and Hugo Boss have found their niches within specific demographics of the mainstream community," explains Eric Schwers, owner of /baskit/ underwear. "Similarly, many brands and companies find their place within the LGBT community - which /baskit/ has already done. Now, we've found a market trend wherein straight guys also enjoy wearing comfortable underwear that's also fashionable. They say that their girlfriends appreciate them more when they're wearing a hot pair of underwear that also accents their figures."

The Colorado-based /baskit/ brand, which was started in 2002 by three fashion industry professionals, was purchased by Eric Schwers in 2007 in an effort to re-establish the brand across a broader market. Consistently since then, Schwers has launched the brand's newest lines of underwear, swimwear and loungewear, which in 2009, he promises will appeal to this even broader mainstream market.

"This is not your father's underwear," says Schwers. "/baskit/ styles are designed to highlight a man's body. Special cuts, contours and high impact accent colors make each pair of underwear fashionable and allow men the ability to express their own style. For 2009, /baskit/ will concentrate on expanding its reach into more mainstream markets with some edgy interpretations of classic underwear styles.

When /baskit/ was first introduced to the market in 2002, "there were plenty of well-known and mainstream brands on the market," adds Schwers. "But none were designed for a fashion-forward guy who wasn't afraid to branch out beyond the basic styles men have been wearing for years. /baskit/ was created to provide that hip, comfortable alternative for modern men who want underwear that fits their lifestyles."

Over the next year, guys can expect to find some of the hottest new underwear styles and design concepts coming from /baskit/ underwear. To purchase a pair of /baskit/ underwear or to find some of the newest styles, visit www.baskitwear.com.

baskit 'switch' video promo from Alex King & Mito Media on Vimeo.

Article written by Stephen J. Lucin. Photo by Bruno Rand.

Look Away Silence Released

2009-07-27T04:01:00Z

Edward C. Patterson announces the release of his thirteenth book, Look Away Silence, available in Trade paperback and Kindle ebook editions.

Martin Powers wanted an ironing board for Christmas. Instead, he got . . . Matthew Kieler, a non-returnable gift, but a gift that kept on giving. Chance encounters are sometimes the ones that most change our lives. He sold Matt a tie, but got more in the bargain -- more than most people would want and more than anyone deserved. Although these lovers may not have had the pink American dream, they had it better than most, even as they faced a crisis that would change us all.

Look Away Silence is a romance set in the time of AIDS, when ignorance could spell trouble and often did. It encompasses the author's experiences in volunteer community service and personal friendships during a tragic period in American history. The novel is
dedicated to the Hyacinth AIDS Foundation, the NAMES Project and to the author's own fallen angels. "Mothers, do not shun your children, because you never know how long you have to revel in them".

Purchase Look Away Silence

What Does Your Car Reveal About You?

2009-07-23T04:01:00Z

Cars; the mere topic can send most men into their fantasy speeding down the open road in their dream vehicle. There are thousands of options out there in different makes, models, sizes, colours, speeds and qualities. Each man with their own unique car-of-their-dreams differs from the next. Have you ever noticed that cars can really "suit" their drivers? This is because people pick out things they fancy based on their personality. It's what appeals to their totality of qualities, traits, character and behaviours. We use it every day when making decisions about our home, work, decor, fashion, style, and yes...our car. Our personality is reflected in everything around us. So, what does your car reveal about you?

There are usually two dominant characteristics that stand out in each person's vehicle and personality type. One characteristic in particular will probably be quite dominant, while you may recognize yourself in another.

While I cannot list all of the different makes and models of cars, I will be talking about the lines and curves of the vehicle instead (which interesting enough...will be similar to the drivers themselves!)

If you have a car that is striking, sophisticated, bold, glamorous....usually defined by sleek lines that are sharp, angular, and severe and with bold colouring and luxurious (i.e. sports cars...think Diablo or Ferrari); you are a most likely a dramatic personality type. You're someone that values prosperity, success, independence and you're a risk taker. You appreciate the jet set like and are often seen in metropolitan areas with the beautiful and rich. You become bored easily. You like to be on the cutting edge of things. Your fashion-forward and extreme, you tend to be noticed. You appreciate high quality. You're most likely an entrepreneur, an executive, or entertainer. You're often motivated by wealth and prestige and love food that is gourmet or exotic. For you, only first class will do. You prefer to drink premier liquor straight up or on the rocks. Your home is most likely a place to be seen in rather than, "live" in and has clean lines that are sparse with the minimum of furnishings. Your place is spotless because of the cleaning person you have on a regular basis.

If your car is long, tall, wide, informal and comfortable, a larger front and has a sophisticated look with an air of elegance and poise (i.e. think Range rover) you may have and aristocratic or elegant personality type. You most likely look like you come from old money. You enjoy a higher quality life style and have friends that often like visiting you. Quality is key and is never overlooked. You like to invest in the things you purchase. Your clothing is usually tailored, comfortable and a bit "sporty" looking (think Tommy Hilfiger) and you love trousers with sweaters and jackets. Your walk is hard and long. You're probably highly educated and your career can be along the lines of something medical, science oriented, or in the field of math. You love things like horseback riding, walking the dogs, reading and conversations that captivate you for hours. You're motivated by achievement. You enjoy being active and travelling to northern European countries. Your house is spacious with antiques, rugs, and comfortable sofas with paintings above them.

If you have a car that has the look of being carefree, casual, practical and grounded (think pick -up truck) you probably have a natural personality type. You most likely have the guy or girl next door look to you. There is more straightness in your face than softness. You're someone that doesn't take kindly to authority and likes to be free and do things your own way. Material possessions are not a top priority to you as much as ethics and ecology. You value authenticity, nature, and freedom. Your fashion is normally pretty casual and comfortable; jeans and t-shirts are the order of the day. You like natural woven fabrics and are proud of any bargains that you find. Your house is normally in a state of disarray, though you'll do a "surface clean" for any company that might be coming over. Your visitors may have to watch for dog or cat hair on the sofas. You most likely want to back pack across Europe and prefer areas that are off the beaten track. You like homes that are rustic with lots of wood and antiques. You probably have a garden that is wild. You drink beer - straight out of the bottle.

If your car is regular and proportioned, yet also refined (think BMW or Mercedes) you are most likely a classic personality type. This means, you are poised, gracious and are meticulously groomed. Your favourite activities are keeping clean, keeping things clean, keeping things organized, and gardening (keeping the weeds out). Things are done properly with you. You value efficiency, organization, good manners, good taste, culture, safety, comfort and control. Your clothing is often understated, elegant, and beautifully tailored. When casual, you still looked dressed up. Your home would be in a typical "white picket fence" community with everything immaculate inside your home; guests take their shoes off at the door. You most likely have a china cabinet inside. The furniture and decor is traditional, and classic.

If your car is short, curved, youthful, fresh, and animated looking (i.e. most Volkswagen vehicles - especially the bug) then you are a creative personality type. You're someone that has a very youthful appearance. You tend to be spiritual and often have your head in the clouds as daydreaming is a constant pastime of yours. For this reason, you can be absent minded and get lost easily. You like clothing that is distinctive, off beat and can handle clothing that is not ordinary. You are particular in what you wear and are always well groomed. For a career; artist, designer or something else creative suits you best. You love to mediate, write, sing, make music, and read. You're highly intuitive and find anything to do with business and numbers scary. You value creativity, alternative lifestyles, individuality, mysticism, and solitude. You're motivated by self expression. You love travel, although you do most of it in your imagination. Your home is one that is full of character and clutter, books, and trinkets. Your favourite drink is anything fruity.

If your car is vintage, rounded, luxurious, and welcoming; then you're a romantic personality. You are sophisticated, warm, flirtatious, and welcoming. You're motivated by your relationships with others, and enjoy being of service to people. You are lavish in your attention and affection for people. You enjoy fine dining, lux fabrics, and lavish surroundings. Your fashion is luxurious, elaborate and feels wonderful. Romantic always use their senses with shopping...they want the clothing to feel good, it's important. You value family, friends, pampering, service, beauty and luxury. You are happiest at home although an industry that allows you to take care of others would be appropriate for you. You may own a restaurant and love cooking. Your home is in a prestigious neighbourhood and may look like a showcase inside, although it's actually, quite comfortable. Your favourite drink is martinis and champagne.

Photo Credit © Lisa Turay | Dreamstime.com

Chic Galleria Interview With Micah Jesse

2009-07-21T04:01:00Z

We all know we can't get enough of celebrity gossip and the juicy details! Well there is a hot new positive voice connecting us directly with celebrity news, sightings, interview and events...Micah Jesse. He has it all glitz, glam, and connections..and we can't help noticing those gorgeous eyelashes, that draw us in. I got the lowdown on the star studded, succulent life of Micah Jesse.

Name: Micah Jesse
URL: http://www.MicahJesse.com
Age: 23 (as of this Sunday!)
Location: New York City (Union Square neighborhood)

DDR: How did you get started as a Celebrity/LifeStyle Blogger?

MJ: Believe it when I say-- I literally fell into it! I didn't know what a blog was, but when my friends found out I was feeding incredible news stories to a certain celebrity blogger (and he was posting it) they forced me to start my own. I never thought it would take off to the point where I am recognized when I walk down the street. Bloggers are the new celebrities!

DDR: What Celeb is on the top of your radar right now?

MJ: I am living for Jill Zarin from The Real Housewives of New York City right now. She is so business-savvy and has really branded herself from the show. She is the brand ambassador right now for Kodak and is penning a book titled "Secrets of a Jewish Mother." What's not to love? I definitely look up to her.

DDR: What question do you love asking celebrities on the red carpet, and how would you answer it?

MJ: I love to be the celebrities open mic. What I mean by that is giving them the opportunity to gab about what they're up to, what project's they are working on, and anything they hope to accomplish. This way, I am not being intrusive but I am giving them an open opportunity to dish the real deal. I sway towards positive news rather than the negative. The negative news just isn't my thing!

DDR: What designer do you love to rock for star studded events?

MJ: I absolutely love rocking Shane&Shawn (www.shaneandshawn.com) shoes to every event. Depending on the event, I love Evisu (www.evisu.com) for more casual events, and for more upscale events I am styled by an amazing stylist named Leo "LV" Velasquez (www.evidentfuture.com) who always puts me in something that turns heads! Be on the lookout for him... and I never leave the house without a Zara Terez (www.zaraterez.com) bag -- her new gun holster bag is a head-turner! I love up-and-coming brands and people -- so if you're a hussler like me and you're making great stuff, I want to rock it!

DDR: What fabulous words of wisdom do you live by?

MJ: Live by the mantra "Short term pain, for long-term gain." I think this rings true in my life (and in many people's lives) because if you stay positive, your dreams can come true in the end. It just may not happen over night.

DDR: I know I said I only have 5 quick questions but... I actually have one more question.. Are you a "tweeter" who is your fav to follow and... hit us up with how to follow you?

MJ: I am addicted to Twitter! My favorite person to follow is Tila Tequila -- she is so rowdy! She takes her Blackberry in the shower with her so she can Twitter and she never sleeps. She's a true Twitrockstar. You can follow the life and times of Micah Jesse by going to http://www.twitter.com/MicahJesse or @MicahJesse.

For your daily dose of celebrity new check out his site http://www.micahjesse.com and for more fun in this social savvy online world he is on youtube detailing his fab life.

Photo credit: John F. McCarthy
Photo credit: Jerritt Clark

Scentsibility of PALIO

2009-07-15T04:01:00Z

Refreshing elegance. Sophisticated and aromatic.

A fragrance to hypnotize both men and women.

Announcing the first fragrance from American designer Lorenzo Siena.

The spirit of Palio is to 'transcend time'. And it does so with a rich woody fragrance mixed with an intricate bouquet - resulting in a clean and fresh distinctive cologne.

Palio was created for men and inspired by the Italian city of Siena - which is also Lorenzo's last name.

Palio means both 'winner' and 'prize' in Italian. The name is directly related to the city's famous horse racing event, Palio di Siena that is held twice yearly.

Lorenzo (Larry) Siena has had a lifelong affinity with fragrances - mixing essences for his own pleasure.

It was while on a trip to Italy and to the town of his namesake that Lorenzo became additionally inspired. He went home and worked on the creation of a new fragrance for his pure personal enjoyment. As he developed this scent- he would wear it. And people would stop him and ask where they could purchase that wonderful fragrance. He beamed "I made it myself".

It is the passion for his craft that is an underlying theme which led me to do this story on Lorenzo Sienna. I felt the sincerity and the naturalness of Lorenzo. His fragrance creations have been his lifelong

infatuation.

With the glut of companies and their star endorsements - it is refreshing to know of a well thought out and sincere product.

Drom International, a world respected fragrance house produces Lorenzo's formulas.

Lorenzo only uses pure natural fragrances - no artificial colors or dyes in his products. He insists that his products be environmentally friendly, safe, and easy to use right down to the reusable bottle with atomizer.

I do not care that Palio is marketed as a man's perfume - I will choose it. I have always used men's fragrances because I feel their blends are superb.

I tried and tested Palio. And this is the result of each inhalation: pleasurable and authentic - a unique aroma, long-lasting, and not overpowering.

Fragrance carries a meaning..........and if it is to be memorable and to transcend time.......I'm in.

Now that you have heard my two scents...try Palio !

According to Lorenzo, the next creation is Palio Gold - followed by Lady Palio.

Shop the Lorenzo Siena Fragrances website for this unique product.

http://www.LorenzoSienaFragrances.com

Chic Galleria and Lorenzo Siena Frangrances is giving away a 3.4oz (100ml) bottle of cologne to one lucky Chic Galleria Reader. How do you win this "scent-sational" product? Just leave a comment on this article and tell us who you would give it to.

Ends July 20th midnight EST. Congratulations Kiley!