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Allison Parris Spring 2010 collection was full of her signature feminine and sophisticated looks incorporating beautiful bead work, leather dresses, full skirts and great belted details.  The 40's inspired soft vintage styles mixed perfectly with high end modern fabrics.

The collection is reminiscent of the qualities used to make garments sustainable in that time period as well including boned bodices, horsehair hems and custom hardware. A great part about this line is the eco-chic factor. The line uses sustainable, organic and/or repurposed fabrics without sacrificing style. The line also uses recycled PET satin, made from recycled soda bottles, to line many of its pieces. 

My ultimate fav was the leather dress, I just have to have it.  Not to mention the show also brought a popular NYC crowd including Tia Walker, Jen Marden, and New York Housewife Alex McCord.  I wonder what piece they will be picking up?

Pamella Roland's spring 2010 collection totally inspired by O'Keeffe's with combinations of bright floral infused with special fabrics and embroideries that bring to mind the artist's iconic paintings.  The pieces are simple and elegant with delicate floral laced patterns and pops of bright color - poppy red, freesia, peony, yellow dahlia and honeydew green  Pale tweeds are accented with gold, copper and oversized floral jacquards reminiscent of the 1950's and 1960's.

At this years Spring 2010 show tons of fabulous celebrities made an appearance to support the designer.  From socialites like Nicky Hilton, reality show stars Kara DioGuardi, Lisa Rinna, Bethenny Frankel, Kelly Bensimon, Luann de Lesseps, and Hollywood stars Amanda Bynes, Toni Braxton.  Pamella's modern silhouettes are worthy of any red-carpet occasion.

Visit www.pamellaroland.com

Photo courtesy of Alison Brod PR

Stacey Bendet once again brings her work to life with the launch of alice + olivia's spring 2010 collection. This season the innovative designer transformed a raw gallery space in New York City's meatpacking district into a live rock concert scene featuring a performance by French girl band Plastiscines and styled by Stacey's longtime friends Anda and Masha.

Following the success of the past themed presentations "alice in wonderland", "breakfast in bed", "hippy queen" and Mick Rock photo gallery at alice + olivia's Bryant Park Store, Stacey once again spun a stylish tale through the music of the Plastiscines, enlisting the band to perform and promote the playful mood of the collection. Both the band and the runway models, posing as adoring fans, showcased the designers' spring looks.

Stacey's inspiration for her spring 2010 collection was "the power of the female". She wanted to represent girls "predicating sexuality, cleverness and charm" by combining influence from all the women who influence her every day.  Keeping her feminine side in mind, she set about to create a collection she describes as "playful with an edge". The designer often credits her line as catering to every kind of woman; creating clothes that are meant to make a woman feel both sexy and sweet. After seeing the Plastiscines' "Barcelona" video, Stacey decided that there was no better way to bring her spring collection to life than with a performance by the band.  The band exudes a "candy punk vibe" that is in tune with alice + olivia's cleverly unique style.

Chic structured dresses in pale pinks, purples and neutrals are mixed with the brand's traditional black and white colors. Small floral prints, embellished tops and structured jackets with cut out details define the flirty and inventive collection. alice + olivia also showcased their basics line featuring t-shirts and button-downs in soft, butter-like fabrics, linens and metallics. This season alice + olivia also unveils their latest collaboration with the jewelry line Erickson Beamon and their continued partnership with Payless, featuring fashion-forward footwear for spring.

Spring 2010 also marks the launch of alice + olivia's premiere high-end collection. The new line was created to add more diversity for their specialty stores and allow customers to have a more unique alice + olivia shopping experience.  The collection consists of hand worked pieces that use luxurious materials and detailed craftsmanship. These edgy and inventive designs are available as part of a limited edition collection.

As always, the imaginative and edgy collection reflects Stacey's lifestyle, as the ever busy designer continues to live bi-coastally and is mom to ten-month old daughter Eloise Breckenridge Eisner. Stacey views life and fashion as synonymous, and continues to find ways to creatively blend the two elements. With a chic spring collection brought to life by the Plasticines music, alice + olivia pushes the boundaries of art and fashion. 

alice + olivia's spring 2010 collection presentation featured a performance by French girl band, the Plastiscines.  Hairstyles created by Frederic Fekkai.  Makeup created by MAC.
Visit http://www.aliceandolivia.com

CELEBRITIES/VIPS IN ATTENDANCE

Anna Lynne McCord, Lindsay Lohan, Ashley Greene, Mena Suvari, Shenae Grimes, Kelly Rutherford, Nicky Hilton, Kristin Cavallari, Jared Leto, Stephanie Pratt, Joanna Garcia, Jill Zarin, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Tinsley Mortimer, Dabney Mercer Gaghan, Leven Rambin, Gail Simmons, Fabiola Beracasa, Eleanor Ylvisaker, and Erin Lucus.

Photo Credit Sara Jaye Weiss

HP and world-renowned designer Vivienne Tam unveiled the new look in digital clutch chic at Tam's Spring 2010 fashion show during New York's Fashion Week at Bryant Park. The HP Vivienne Tam digital clutch marries two cultures - fashion and technology - to reflect transformative spirit and chic lifestyle. Inspired by the classic Chinese love story concerto "Butterfly Lovers," the design features elegant butterflies that are brought to life on a champagne gold backdrop. The HP Vivienne Tam digital clutch will be available in Spring 2010.

The HP Vivienne Tam Special Edition notebook represents the first time a computer company has partnered with a globally renowned designer to create a notebook PC that offers all the style and power needed for a delightful technology experience. Tam also worked with HP to design the notebook's accessories and packaging.

"When I was approached by HP to create a special edition notebook, I could see the design in my head instantly," said Tam. "The notebook is a true reflection of the needs of a modern woman who cares about fashion but is also passionate about her technology. I wanted to create a notebook that would appeal to women of all ages, ethnicities and income levels across the globe."

The top of the notebook is gleaming red and bursting with peony flowers. The peony design is meticulously carried inside the notebook, under the keypad. The notebook also features a complementary embroidered storage sleeve that helps keep the exterior protected while being carried as a clutch.

The peony design features a unique blend of Asian and Western cultures, antiquity and modern style, technology and fashion. It was inspired by Tam's "China Chic" style, which is recognized from the runways in Milan to the Olympics in Beijing and represents her personal mantra to live well and be beautiful.

"The peony is the national flower of China. They are beautiful and symbolize prosperity, good fortune and happiness," said Tam. "Their many layers are similar to a modern woman who is as savvy in expressing herself with her personal style as she is with weaving technology into the fabric of her rich and multi-faceted life."

"With 'China Chic,' Vivienne Tam reinterpreted traditional Chinese art into a global fashion trend," said Satjiv Chahil, senior vice president, Worldwide Marketing, Personal Systems Group, HP. "With her spring collection, Tam has helped HP take the personal computer from a necessity to a lifestyle and fashion 'must have.'"  Visit www.viviennetam.com and www.hp.com.

Photos courtesy of www.NYMag.com and www.hp.com. 

Althea Harper has always loved to draw, but it was at the young age of ten when she found her niche for fashion.  She recently graduated from The University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning.  Althea also received additional training at Central St. Martin in London.  She's interned at Anna Sui, Zac Posen, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Victoria's Secret and Garden Inc.  Her fashion designs are inspired by Bridgette Bardot, 30's glamour and architecture.

Recently, we caught up with the Project Runway Season 6 star and asked her a view "allowable" questions.  Being that the show is still airing, we have to wait to ask her the question on all of our minds, "Who won?"

CG: Althea, can you share a little bit about yourself and how you got started?

AH: I am 24 years old and I grew up in Dayton, Ohio (which was great because living around the world and meeting all types of people, you realize how rare Midwestern openness and kindness is) and now I reside in Brooklyn, NY.   I have always know that I wanted to be a fashion designer. While my fellow high school students struggled over decisions of where to go to college and what to major in, I always knew exactly where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do.  I applied early admission to my college, got accepted soon after and never applied anywhere else.  I chose to go to the University of Cincinnati School of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning because it was in state and had relatively cheap tuition (I had to pay for college myself) and it also offered the co-op program where you would get work experience while still in school.  I chose to take advantage of this opportunity and worked to get internships with Anna Sui, Zac Posen, Victoria's Secret... and then traveled to London where I worked at Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood as well as attended Central Saint Martins. Living in Europe was such an amazing experience and really opened my eyes to possibilities outside of American fashion.

CG: Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?

AH: I draw inspiration from all types of things.  It can be a feeling, a plant, another garment, or a place.  I especially love architecture.

CG: What designs have been your favorites?

AH: I love my knitwear designs, especially this huge knit jacket that I did in college...otherwise it is often just whatever  I am working on at the moment.

CG: What are your future plans?

AH: I have BIG plans for the future!!  I want to have my own line that I sell to high end department stores and then eventually open my own stores.  I believe that my designs fill a niche that is missing.  It is still downtown cool without losing the glamour.  It combines tailoring and drape that I have learned from all my experience at different fashion houses.

Photo Credit: Kannie Yu LaPack, Lifetime Entertainment Services

With all the social networking I do, blogging, Facebook, and of course Twitter; I came across this fabulous brand M641.   Personally describing their brand as Girlfriend Chic, they have lots of pieces like tunics that are ones your friends would adore.  I had the opportunity to get more juicy details from these ladies with a quick interview.  

Name: M641
URL: www.madras641.com

Location: Everywhere! Cincinnati is home base for now but NYC forever has our heart.

DDR: How did the brand M641 get started?

M641: My dear friend, now business partner, Subu and I had long discussions over wine about how amazing her idea was to one day have her own label. Since she was brought up in the fashion industry, and I had a truly corporate background, it became a great fit! We wanted to fit the needs of women who were like us, possibly mommies, travelers, socialites, businesswomen. From there, we both agreed that we would use the button-down shirt -  an All American classic, and sprinkle in the best of India - to pay homage to Subu's heritage. So, fabulous colors, exotic cottons, luxe trims and embroideries were the focus of M641 designs. And there we were - just two gal pals sitting around strategizing about the launch of their dream biz (mostly while our little ones napped or were down for the night by the way!) And in 2007 our dream was realized and we launched our first Collection that Spring!

DDR: How would you describe M641, what are the favorite pieces in the Fall Collection?

M641: As we are inspired by the female form and the many various hats women wear, we describe ourselves as 'girlfriend chic'. You know that cool tunic or dress you and your girlfriends would adore! We are more mainstream and not runway couture. 'Memorable High Fashion' if you will. Our favorite Fall '09 pieces from our Independence Rising Collection are our 'Taking Tonight tunic' with a sequin self sash (see photos), the plaid flannel 'Freedom Waist jacket' with a sequin tab at the back and the 'Self Sufficient button down' with a metallic hidden zari tape at the button panel.

DDR: What celebrities would you love see in M641 on the red carpet?

M641: We sincerely feel that Kate Hudson, Blake Lively and our favorite brit rocker Joss Stone have that M641 vibe going on.

DDR: Tell us the plans for the future for M641 and where would you like to see the line in 10 years?

M641: Well you'll see in our upcoming SS10 collection, that we've dabbled in different fabrications - veering off from our signature woven cottons a bit, to include some chiffons, knits and such. It's truly our most prized Collection to date. And, while many brands do strive to be in department stores, we truly feel at home in the brick and mortar specialty boutiques. In 10 years (likely sooner) we should be found in the likes of larger specialty retail chains such as Scoop NYC for example.

DDR: Where can we purchase the M641 collection?

M641: We can be found online exclusively at www.smashingdarling.com/store/m641 and at various boutiques across the country - oh and in Australia! Whoo hoo we're International baby! Like to see us in a particular boutique...just let us know!

DDR: Ok we actually have one more question.. Is M641 on "Twitter" who is your fav to follow and... hit us up with how to follow you?

M641: We are on Twitter! Come by to genuinely and personally tweet with us @M641. Ask us to follow you back--that'll get our attention for sure. No canned DMs please. You know, say something to really trip our trigger! We follow lotsa different folks...how do we pick a fave!? But we oh so enjoy tweets from @boutiquing @SmashingDarling @MissNolcha @PRCouture @YuliZ, fellow designers like @maryjanefrances @Marialexandra and  so many of the fashion bloggers out there such as @TamiaS. Our most prized follower to date is @StellaMcCartney!

In fashion and friendship,

Ina

Co-Founder M641

Alex and Ani's handcrafted jewelry adorns women in inspiring, spiritual designs made from recycled metals. Produced in the United States, the line reflects the concept of jewelry as eco-friendly works of art--a concept that owner/designer Carolyn Rafaelian is steadfastly dedicated to. Celebrities who have worn her pieces include Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, and Oprah Winfrey.

Offered in precious metals or the company's signature Russian Gold and Russian Silver finishes, the pieces contains sacred stones and symbols. Some of them also contain Alex and Ani's Signature Expandable Concept, a patented technology that trades traditional jewelry clasps for a sliding mechanism that makes necklaces, bracelets, and rings adjustable--no more worries about getting the perfect fit.

The company's concept of Charity By Design allows for proceeds from the sale of the jewelry line to go toward charitable causes such as relief efforts for the survivors of natural disasters and wildlife preservation efforts and natural disaster relief.

Alex and Ani is sold at stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Fred Segal,  and Henri Bendel. It is also available on www.AlexAndAni.com. 

Looking for some old-fashioned elegance? Designer Blair Nadeau's label, Feathered, offers hair pins, hats, and feather fascinators that will make you stand out in a crowd.

Inspired by feathers, one of nature's most luxurious natural textiles, each piece is handcrafted and custom made for each customer using the finest materials imported to Canada from the United States and England.

Blair was born and raised in London, Ontario and was destined to succeed in the art world from the moment she picked up her first crayon. She stumbled into a love of fashion at the age of 15, both on her own accord and from the influence of her fashionable mother and grandmother. From that moment on, she pursued her love of fabric and sequins, studying two years of textile art and printmaking at London, Ontario's Beal Art school and then embarking on four years at Toronto's Ryerson University's prestigious fashion design school. 

"I always struggled with where I fit in, in the fashion world," she says. "As much as I loved sewing and designing clothing, I didn't feel as though that was where, creatively, I belonged. I've always enjoyed tedious hand work: beading, sketching, hand embroidery, and painting. And I've always been infatuated with hats and headwear."

While in London, England, on a buying trip, Blair stumbled upon a fascinator/hat boutique in Selfridge's on Oxford street and began a love affair with all things feathered.

"When I discovered fascinators in England, they had not made their mark on North American fashion yet. I fell completely head over heels in love with them," she recalls. "After about eight months of teaching myself different techniques, I felt as if I had finally found my place in the fashion industry. I officially launched Feathered at the end of April 2009 and it's been going fabulously ever since!"  

"Trying to come up with the right name for the company was a bit of a process," she explains. "I wanted a name that represented the main materials of the pieces, but I like things that are short, simple and modern. Eventually late one night, I came up with 'Feathered.' I thought that it was the perfect name as it embodied the materials used and explained the concept of the pieces all in one simple word."

Blair's April 2009 collection, Modern Vintage English Luxe, was inspired by the luxury of European life and of early Hollywood decadence. "I intially started the company specializing in cocktail hats and feathered hair bands/clips, but have seen an increasing demand for smaller hair pins," she says. "I have a fabulous hair pin titled England's Belle that is available for giveaway in black and white. It would be great for adding a little spice to a casual day wear ensemble or adding flare to great evening look. I am also beginning to dabble in bridal with feathered hair accessories, hats, and Russian veiling is becoming increasingly popular for bridal wear."

Blair's merchandise is available in boutiques in Toronto; customers can also view and order pieces on BlairNadeau.com. All designs can be modified with different jewels, shells, pearls, and feather colors. A two-week lead time is required for each meticulously created piece.

Chic Galleria and Blair Nadeau are giving away this gorgeous hair piece to one lucky Chic Galleria reader.  How do I win you ask? Just visit www.BlairNadeau.com and check out all her incredible feathered pieces.  Come back here and leave a comment.  Do you have a special event you would love to wear this to? We want to hear about it!

Ends June 28th midnight EST.

Congratulations to Peggy Gorman~Winner!

I have to tell you all that when I received this hair piece for the giveaway, I was in awe!  I asked Blair how she would personally recommend wearing it.  The winner of this is a very lucky gal!

"It can be worn a variety of ways.  Myself personally, since I always wear my hair down, I pull a piece of hair from the front and towards the back (boho like) and secure the pin in the hair towards the back of my head. Sometimes I pin it towards the front of my head holding back my hair behind my ears or holding back my bangs, or I just throw it in my hair at the side of my head, not holding anything...A lot of people have been pinning them into updos for weddings", says Blair.

Love fashion? Women's Wear Daily is promoting a contest that could send you to New York Fashion Week in September 2009.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) will give the Popular Vote award to one American designer on June 15; each time you vote for your favorite one through WWD's site, you will be entered to win two tickets to a Fashion Week show.

Visit WWD.com to scroll through the designers and vote.

Following the success of the first boutique of the women's day wear prêt-a-porter label and backed by popular demand, we are pleased to announce that Fiore Amaro has expanded to open a second boutique exclusively for brides and her wedding party.

Fiore Amaro Weddings boutique is now officially open for business and is based in one of the most prestigious shopping locations in Limassol, Cyprus. Some of the dresses from the haute couture wedding collection can now be seen in the window display as well as on the ground floor of the boutique.
 
For wedding dresses, we offer the bride, custom made, ready to wear as well as special purchase and rental packages. We also discuss all her needs for her entire outfit and look.
 
Couture evening wear, mother of the bride, bridesmaids, flower girl, and baby girl christening dresses can also be custom made or ready bought.
 
We use Swarovski crystal beads, and our fabrics are imported from France, Italy, Spain and England. We are able to order almost any fabric and colour available from our extensive fabric collections.

The entire collection is designed by owner and founder of the label, Marianthy Avraamides, solely under the name Fiore Amaro.

The existing clientele includes both local and international. We can arrange for our overseas clients to visit us.  The weddings boutique will be operating as our showroom and customer reception. Customers are met by appointment only. If you would like a free consultation, please phone or e-mail us to book an appointment. 
 
Fiore Amaro Boutique
246 Makarios Ave
(Opposite Maximos Plaza & Karen Millen store)
 
Phone: + 357 25 34 34 78
E-mail: weddings@fioreamaro.com Web: www.FioreAmaro.com

Dreading this year's search for the perfect swimsuit?  Designer and swimwear guru Shoshanna Gruss, is here to help with answers to all of your summer style issues.  Conquer your swimwear fears and hit the stores armed with expert tips on what works for you.

Q&A WITH DESIGNER SHOSHANNA GRUSS

What are the key swim trends to look for this summer?

Look for bright pop colors like neon pink, orange and green.  Tribal prints are popular as well as ditsy floral prints, big bohemian florals and graphic black and white. 
 

How revealing should a swimsuit actually be?

Bust Coverage Test

Three-fourths of the bust should be covered, leaving only a swath of cleavage. The thicker the strap that attaches the bust to the rest of the suit, the more likely it'll stay in place as the day goes on. If you opt for a bandeau top, which is often strapless, nothing should be squeezing out the top or the bottom.  Boy shorts offer great coverage on the bottom if you're active, but they're far from being a universally flattering style.  
 
What are the best colors for every skin tone?

Navy and black are universally good for every skin tone.  Both colors are flattering and look good against the lightest skin tones and the darkest.


How do you find a swimsuit that flatters your shape?

Big Busted

Look for halters which offer the most support.  Also look for boning and underwire which will act like a bra and securely hold you in place.

Curvy

Look for one pieces with ruching to slim your middle.  When shopping for bikini's stick to bottoms with tie string so they are easily adjustable.

Flat Chested

Strings are most flattering.  If you want to enhance your chest, look for ruffles or ruching which will create the illusion of a bigger chest.


How do you take your beach look from day-to-night?

Find a versatile cover up that can take your bikini beach look to a casual dinner.  A crochet cover with ¾ sleeves is great because you can throw it over a bikini with cute shorts or jeans and be ready for a night out.


What are some general tips for purchasing swimwear?

Cotton bathing suits are more for show. They will take a long time to dry compared to a polyester/Spandex blend.  Accept that sizes will vary, even from the same label.

What is the best way to care for swimwear?

Don't put bathing suits in the washing machine, this will weaken the elastic.  Instead, wash in cold water with a delicate cleanser such as Woolite. 

Visit http://www.shoshanna.com/

Kristen Bell, Jessica Szohr and other Sir Alistair Rai fans, like Rihanna, Angelina Jolie and Jessica Alba just want us all to give peace a chance with this new politically-and-fashionably forward Gandi V-Neck

 

(Just recently, Kristen Bell was caught wearing it on the streets of NYC)

Born in England to a traditional Indian family and schooled in Switzerland and the United States, Kiran Rai has been influenced by many different cultures. As designer and creative director of the fashion and accessories brand, Sir Alistair Rai, Kiran creates pieces that are a reflection of her life experiences and cultural history.

After 10 years of working as a buyer in the fashion industry, Kiran was ready to create something of her own that would make a statement and potentially change the way people think. With that, Sir Alistair Rai was born. In 2006, Kiran created a line of t-shirts for her and her friends with kitschy slogans such as "Adopt Me Angelina" and a portrait T-shirt of Mahatma Gandhi. Once the Kitson buyers saw these t-shirts, Sir Alistair Rai launched at their Los Angeles location in February 2006 and was an instant success. Kiran's designs bring timeless messages of peace, promote global awareness, and introduce ancient Hindu/Sanskirt teachings into today's world.

For inspiration, Kiran frequently visits India where she is able to explore her own heritage. From the wisdom and beauty of her Raja line, featuring one of a kind art work to the wit and social commentary of her Junglee line, Sir Alistair Rai conjures the feeling of far-off Indian sectors.

In 2007, Sir Alistair Rai introduced original Hindu prayer scarves with personal messages of love, peace, hope, karma and kismet (fate) to their collection and they were an immediate hit. Drew Barrymore picked up a few of the scarves in a local Los Angeles boutique and raved about them in her interview with the London Times. Since then, numerous style icons and celebrities including Angelina Jolie, Julia Roberts, Halle Berry and Jessica Alba have been routinely photographed wearing Kiran's designs, as they have become a closet staple. Kiran has further developed the scarf collection with designs of original Indian motifs and logos such as OM, paisleys and lotus.

In 2008, Kiran added ready-to-wear and accessories into the mix. Dresses, caftans, clutches and bangles were welcomed to rave reviews. Sir Alistair Rai anticipates further growth with the launch of shoes, hats and jewelry in early 2009.

While she's busy at work designing spectacular pieces, Kiran is devoted to making sure all of her manufacturing facilities guarantee fair labor practices. The whole collection is produced in India and Kiran personally visits each facility to ensure workers are being treated fairly and paid a living wage.

As a mother of a teenage boy, designer and owner of a popular fashion label, a world traveler, Kiran does it all. She continues to develop new aspects of fashion, keeping each collection unique and fresh. While Sir Alistair Rai continues to grow, Kiran's recognition and regard in the industry as a designer follows suit.

Sir Alistair Rai is sold in Nordstroms, Intermix, Henri Bendels, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, www.siralistairrai.com and over 500 specialty stores world wide.

The Darby Scott collection of handbags, accessories, and jewelry is designed for the discriminating connoisseur who appreciates old world craftsmanship and an unfailing attention to detail. Founded by renowned designer, Darby Scott in 1994, the Darby Scott brand has become synonymous with sophisticated style and refined taste.

Prior to founding her own line, Scott concluded a successful career as Vice President of women's merchandising and design for the North American division of Aquascutum of London. This position followed nearly a decade of design experience at venerable international fashion houses including Perry Ellis and Karl Lagerfeld.  With a vast career in fashion and design experience to her credit, Scott felt it was time to launch her own line of luxury goods and pursue her passion.

Debuting at Saks Fifth Avenue in September of 1994, the first Darby Scott collection entailed cocktail and evening dresses, which featured elegantly tailored silhouettes crafted from sumptuous fabrics.  Enthusiastically received by retailers and the media, the Darby Scott line quickly found a place with consumers who found the simple elegance of the Darby Scott line highly appealing.

With the new millennium came a new line. In the Fall of 2000, Scott released her first collection of handbags, which has now grown to include a full range of large multi-functional day bags, evening clutches, and special occasion minaudières.   What makes the Darby Scott handbag collection unique is Scott's artful blend of rich skins and opulent fabrics paired with semi-precious stones, natural shell, horn, bone, and wood.  The result is some of the most striking bags, which are carried by leading social figures and the Hollywood elite.

Scott continues her creative endeavors with future products that incorporate unique fabrication with classic design. The collection also includes traditionally inspired jewelry, with contemporary influences, resulting in many unique and one of a kind pieces. Scott is also available for wedding gown design and wardrobe creation. The Darby Scott collections are available through the company's private showroom in New York, and at Bergdorf Goodman. www.darbyscott.com .

Project Runway alum, designer Jack Mackrenroth, is dishing up Fashion Week in NYC at NewNowNext.com!  Chic Galleria is thrilled to have the opportunity to share his articles.

I was really looking forward to the Michael Kors show. I have not seen him in forever and I was supposed to have a brief pre-show interview with him but when I arrived his PR team had already packed up the check-in. Oh well. I figured I would try for post-show. Right. Not.

The show was excellent. I know that everyone is talking recession doom and gloom but you couldn't tell from the Kors collection. First of all he did not scrimp on the models. He had some of the top girls right from the get-go. Carmen Cass, Frankie Rayder, Chanel Iman, Raquel Zimmerman, Coco Rocha and my FAVE model of the moment, Tanya Dziahileva.

One thing that Michael does extremely well is style an entire head-to toe look. With many designers I like certain pieces but not a full look. Kors models look as if they could walk right off the runway and onto an awaiting private jet.





The show started with black wool and cashmere luxurious pieces that were soon infused with neon green accents followed by grey and white tweeds and leathers. He moved onto a more neutral mid section with tans and olive fabrics and furs. Neon green, pink and orange were scattered throughout.

Watch the whole show here. Click the PLAY tab.

I went backstage after the show but Michael was MOBBED by press. I just stood in the corner waiting for a moment but it never happened. INSTEAD I chatted with Jane Krakowski from 30 Rock and various Broadway productions. She was SO nice. She is my new BFF and Nicole Richie is out. I'm fickle like that.






Then Heidi Klum arrived backstage with a throng of press and madness ensued. She is always very kind to me so I applaud her for that especially since she is constantly hounded. She always takes time to kiss kiss and say "hi".

On the contrary my reception from Mr. Kors was quite chilly. When I finally approached him he said, "Oh, hi." and stuck out his hand. I thought that was strange. I know we are not bosom buddies but we did go through quite an experience together. Anyway-I will assume he was just exhausted and OVER it at that point.

Show Jack some love and leave him a comment at NewNowNext.com. 

For the next week, Project Runway alum, designer Jack Mackrenroth, will be dishing up Fashion Week in NYC at NewNowNext.com!  Chic Galleria is thrilled to have the opportunity to share his articles.

Well, it's here again! The Bryant Park tents are up for the last time before they move to Lincoln Center. The models are emaciated, the editors are frenetic and the designers are popping Xanax in a mad last minute panic. Fashion Week officially starts today, Friday the 13th (oooooooh), but the festivities kicked off yesterday.

I braved the cold and ridiculous wind-my hair was a hot mess-all for the fashion frenzy that is about to crash land in NYC. My day started with a fabulous installation by ubertalented super cutie Jillian Lewis my friend and fellow Project Runway Season 4 designer. Jillian is known for her amazingly tailored coats and knitwear and she did not disappoint. Opting not to do a full fashion show she did an installation down on Little West 12th street. It was great because you could go up and chat with the models. She told me that her inspiration came from her residence which is covered in graffiti and overlooks railroad tracks. The futuristic industrial feel was readily apparent.






I think her pieces were even more gorgeous than her final collection for Project Runway. Jillian believes that, "clothes can be editorial and still wearable." And she proved it with her collection. Her favorite piece in the show was this coat on the left. It's gorgeous.



























My favorite was the charcoal, fringe sleeve, knitted gown on the black model at the top of the group. Rock on, Jillian!








Visit NewNowNext.com and leave Jack a comment. I know he'd love to hear from our readers!

This past November I attended a fall 2009 fashion preview co-sponsored by Boston Fashion Week and Fashion Group International.  When the final frame of the Spring/Summer 2009 screening faded out, the room was quite.  "Really?" hung, unspoken in the air.  80's inspired trends ran rampant on the runways.  The critique that followed by Boston fashion notables as well as representatives from WWD and Lucky Magazine confirmed what many of us in the room seemed uneasy to believe: 80s fashion trends provided notable inspiration to Fall 2009 collections.  With that, however, was the added notion that anything goes; wear what looks good on you and wear what you like.  Enter Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Collections presented on day one were indeed reminiscent of the runways of the 80s.  Some designers enjoyed greater success at incorporating the look than others.  Different spins on the theme appeared in Yigal Azrouel's sporadically futuristic collection as well as in Charlotte Ronson's more tailored version.
 
Also present, however, was the notion that the trend is infused into a more open minded concept of what is and is not acceptable.  While asymmetry, cutouts, jumpsuits and Dhoti pants made their appearance, so also did wide legs and tapered legs with hems above and below the ankle.  Patterned leggings and tights peppered collections as did monochromatic looks.  Hems on skirts were both high above the knee and just below.  Oversized plaid made a few appearances as did some overstated textures.  Duckie Browne included a fine looking larger scale herringbone in a beautifully tailored menswear collection albeit paired with oversized scarves and towering toppers.
 
Some may find the eclecticism confusing, perhaps.  True visionaries, however, will view these collections and those not yet presented with an eye toward incorporating a few personally favorable pieces into their own wardrobes to cultivate their personal style.

Marianthy Avraamides finished her bachelors degree in fashion design in England, but relocated to New York to pursue a career as a fashion designer. Over the past decade she has designed for famous international clothing brands in New York and London and traveled the globe for inspiration. "I am never satisfied with the familiar," says Marianthy.  Her designs have been worn by famous celebrities including Drew Barrymore, Julia Roberts, Benjamin Bratt and Michael Weatherly.

After 10 years of designing for other labels, I was itching to create my own womenswear clothing collection. Therefore, after 14 years of living abroad, I decided to move back home to Cyprus to start my own business and founded the Fiore Amaro design label in February 2007. My vision was to create a label that explored beautiful, intricate clothing for the individual and stylish woman.

Fiore Amaro does not believe in uniforms, or universal fashion. We also understand what our customer's want, which is, an individuality of style and garments that are limited production. Our company motto, "Its not about fashion, it's about Style".

Fiore Amaro is a lifestyle label, offering women a wardrobe for every occasion:
Fiore Amaro, White Label - ready-to-wear clothes
Fiore Amaro, Black Label - couture collection and custom made evening dresses
Fiore Amaro Weddings - custom made couture bridal gowns and couture bridal gown rental.

The first Fiore Amaro store opened its doors in September 2008 in Limassol, Cyprus.

The boutique caters to a wide variety of tastes, from the eternally classic to the avant garde. The designs appeal to international women of all ages. Coats, jackets, sweaters, blouses, casual dresses and cocktail dresses, skirts, trousers and even our very own Swarovski crystal logo denim jeans! Accessories include bags and jewelery.

While at university one of my lecturers showed us a film, "Breakfast at Tiffany's". This film was the start of my love affair with timeless classic couture and old Hollywood glamour of silver screen actresses. Most of my inspiration comes from Hollywood films of the 40's, 50's and 60's eras. The work of designers such as Gabrielle Channel, Elsa Schiaparelli, Madeleine Vionnet, Paul Poiret, Balenciaga, Dior (pre -YSL) fascinate me. My designs are classic with a contemporary visionary twist; timeless, sexy, feminine, elegant, ladylike silhouettes. I would describe my daywear collection as minimalist, clean cut basics that can be translated from work to a night out. The evening wear collection is dark, mysterious, glamorous, curvy, sensual and dramatic. Strong, independent, feminine women are my muses.

My favorite experience with my profession is when I see someone on the street or at an event wearing one of my creations. The most valuable compliment I can receive is when I get customers coming back to the store to thank me for their dresses. This means I am doing my job right!

At the moment my plan is to capture the Cyprus and Greek markets and then go international. Currently there is some generated interest from boutiques in New York, Miami and London and I am currently pursuing to stock my product with them. There is one factor which is on my side, and that is that I have a huge amount of experience working in the USA as well as Europe and understand their markets well.

Visit www.FioreAmaro.com.  Limassol, Cyprus

On Monday, November 11, I attended the Fashion Forward 2008 Fundraiser presented by Bank of America benefiting Gay Men's Health Crisis.  Project Runway alum, Jack Mackenroth invited me to this event and I was thrilled to be able to attend and represent Chic Galleria.com.

GMHC is a not-for-profit, volunteer-supported and community-based organization committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS.  They provide prevention and care services to more than 15,000 men, women and families that are living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS in New York City, and advocate for scientific, evidence-based public health solutions for hundreds of thousands worldwide.

Dr. Marjorie Hill, CEO, Gay Men's Health Crisis and Mr. Alan Rappaport, NY President, Bank of America, addressed the SOLD OUT crowd for this event held at Skylight Studios in New York City.  With over 700 in attendance, fashionistas, friends and supporters listened to stunning statistics about the growing numbers of people affected by HIV and AIDS.  Master of Ceremonies, Tim Gunn welcomed everyone and talked briefly about wrapping up Project Runway Season 6 in Los Angeles.  This drew some jeers from the New York based crowd.

Before the runway show, featuring six of New York's top designers, Betsey Johnson, Michael Bastian, Ports 1961 by Tia Cibani, Charles Nolan, Tim Hamilton and John Varvatos, the crowd browsed the fabulous silent auction items. These included vacations, jewelry, shopping sprees, a Michael Kors mink vest, Madonna concert tickets, and an autographed fashion table book.  U.S.A. Olympic Fencing Silver Medalists, Tim Morehouse and Jason Rogers were in attendance as well as Gretta Monahan, Andrew Buckler, Derek Lam, and Miss USA, Crystle Stewart.  Beverly Johnson was flawless in a dress designed by Project Runway Season 6 finalist, Korto Momolu.  Project Runway alums included Suede, Kevin Christiana and Malan Breton as well as New York stylist, Flavio Gomez. 

What a thrill it was to see my friend Jack introduced by Tim Gunn before the runway show.  Jack addressed the crowd with charm and dignity as he talked about living with HIV and how GMHC has helped him over the years.  He spoke of his new campaign Living Positive by Design with such enthusiasm and grace.  I wanted you all to read his passionate speech:

As Tim mentioned, we all know that HIV/AIDS has hit the fashion and arts community disproportionately. I wonder who else might be here tonight if AIDS had not picked so many flowers before their time. It's a thought that should motivate us and inspire us to work harder to combat the disease. That is one of the many reasons I am SO thankful for GMHC.

Some of you may know me from" Project Runway" and some of you know me personally. But what you probably don't know is that I have been a client of GMHC since the early 90's when I first moved to New York. When I was diagnosed with HIV almost 20 years ago I was a young, scared, starving Parsons student. GMHC provided free counseling, patient advocacy and legal services that I desperately needed but could not afford. They were the single bright light in a fairly bleak horizon of my life. So thank you GMHC for possibly saving my life so I could be here tonight.

"Project Runway" was an amazing tool for national exposure and has brought many amazing opportunities in fashion that I would not have had otherwise. However, I am most proud of the fact that I was open about my positive HIV status on the show and exemplified that a person can manage HIV and live a successful life. Every time a person with HIV is open about his or her status it helps everyone who is living with the disease. That's why I'm here tonight to talk about an inspiring HIV educational campaign I'm working on with Merck and many AIDS service organizations called Living Positive By Design. Living Positive By Design encourages people, both HIV + and HIV -, to engage in thoughtful conversations about HIV. Through these conversations, we hope to help eliminate the stigma still associated with the disease. We encourage people living with HIV to be proactive with their doctors to find a treatment regimen that gets their virus to an undetectable level, one of the most important goals of treatment. For physicians who treat HIV, we want them to consider treatment tolerability so patients are more likely to stay on their medications. In your gift bags tonight you will find a red scarf I have created as my interpretation of the classic red AIDS ribbon, which signifies the points of the Living Positive By Design campaign. I hope you wear it with pride and purpose.

I am a living testament to what you can accomplish by letting go of shame and being your own advocate. When I had to leave Project Runway prematurely, after hours of crying Tim said to me in the hallway as I left, "You are very talented and everything happens for a reason." At the time I thought he was just comforting me, but now I know it's true. Not everyone has the luxury of a support network like GMHC. We need to support each other. That is why I am so thankful that you all came here tonight to show your support. Please keep up all the amazing work that you are doing and know that every single person can make a difference. Thank you.

I will be dedicating an article within a few days to Jack Mackenroth and Living Positive by Design.  I hope you will take the time to visit his website and show your support.  Thank you Jack for a wonderful evening!

Read the Press Release of this fabulous event!

Photos: Jack Mackenroth and Tim Gunn courtesy of http://blog.jackmackenroth.com.  All other photos by Austin Anderson/Chic Galleria.com.

Related Articles:

Compliments From Fashion Guru Tim Gunn

The Sights and Sounds of Soho

Chic Galleria Hits New York City For The Fashion Forward 2008 Fundraiser

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Visit www.jodiarnoldnyc.com.  New York, New York

On Monday, November 10, I will be attending the launch of Living Positive By Design, HIV And AIDS Education Initiative, at the GMHC Fashion Forward 2008 Fundraiser in New York City.  Jack Mackenroth is nationally debuting this HIV and AIDS education campaign at this event and will unveil a signature campaign scarf and address attendees regarding the Living Positive By Design campaign.

The Living Positive By Design campaign, a sponsor of Fashion Forward, seeks to help combat the stigma associated with HIV by engaging people in thoughtful conversation about the condition and is being supported by Merck & Co., Inc. 

GMHC Fashion Forward event is being held at Skylight Studios with a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by a fashion show.  Runway Designers include Michael Bastian, Tim Hamilton, Betsey Johnson, Charles Nolan, Ports 1961 by Tia Cibani and John Varvatos.  Sponsors include Diane von Furstenberg and Michael Kors.

I'm looking forward to meeting up with Jack before the event to hear more about his amazing project and attending Fashion Forward representing Chic Galleria.com that evening. 


Visit www.livingpositivebydesign.com and www.gmhc.org.  

Related Articles:

Compliments From Fashion Guru Tim Gunn

GMHC's Fashion Forward Fundraiser

The Sights and Sounds of Soho

Chic Galleria Hits New York City For The Fashion Forward 2008 Fundraiser