Recently in Fashion Category

There is nothing better than waking up to 90-degree weather and hoping to find a summer dress and some sandals in your closet. Instead, what you have is a long-sleeve silk dress and worn-out UGG boots. As you stand and scratch your head and ponder how you can make your comfy, winter clothes still work for you, you are also wanting to pinch yourself. You knew that you should have purchased that $20 white sundress at say, Old Navy, and their two for $5 flip-flops.

When shopping, I think most of us decide to put back a fabulous-fitting piece on the rack and tell ourselves that it's OK to wait if we aren't planning to wear the piece for awhile - which, yes, is a great way to save money. But it's also OK to prepare for each upcoming (and current!) season. This is actually a practical tip. Your environment plays a huge role in what is sold in stores - guiding the merchandise actually - so it's time to ask yourself: Are you being practical? Summer fashion sales are all over the place - both online and in the stores. These days, $50 can take you quite far with updating your closet. This means that money doesn't necessarily have to come in your way of keeping up with seasonal fashion. Give up a few cups of coffee each week, along with packs of cigarettes and eating out, and you should be able to walk in a store, such as Old Navy, and stock up on tanks, sandals, dresses, and shorts.

Whether you are planning an outdoor vacation or just want to feel comfy in your own home, you can dress as chic as a celeb! Summer sales are here and retailers are just waiting for you to embark on what they have in stock. I don't recommend shopping simply due to their supplies and their business plans; but I do recommend that you treat yourself to a comfortable summer. This means that those UGGs may need to take a backseat for awhile.

Photo credit: http://www.media.trendmill.com

We are our own worst critics. Every day, I see men and women alike pick their bodies apart into two different categories: parts they like, and the others they don't. Tisk's, sighs, and deep breaths take place as they try on different outfits. This is because they feel frumpy and/or outdated in them or due to the fact that they like certain parts of the outfit and not others. Clothing is meant to make us feel confident, happy, chic, and stylish...all while showing our personality and glow! So why are you buying clothing that make you feel otherwise?

Most people usually tell me that they don't know what looks good on them, or that they are constantly in a rush. Sound familiar? Impulse purchases take place because in their mind, "that's as good as it's going to get", they really like the colour or pattern of the item, or just because it's in fashion. The fact is most men and women have a vague sense of what looks good on them and what doesn't. The problem is that many don't know they reasons why something works for them or doesn't. It's crucial for people to understand their body shape, body type, colouring, personality style, lifestyle requirements and fashion. That is why I highly recommend things like a colour, wardrobe, and style analysis. They are great foundations to helping you understand...you! Having this kind of information will also save you hundreds of dollars, time and frustration. You'll understand what works best for you, your personality, lifestyle and fashion which in turn will make you feel current, strong, fabulous and chic!

So where to start with dressing ourselves? There are a lot of things to take into consideration!

A great starting point to figuring out what works for you is to stand in front of a full length mirror. Look to see what about your body shape you notice first? Are you an inverted triangle? An "A" shape? Do you have a very curvaceous body? No curves? Are you very angular? Do you have broad shoulders? No waist shape? Strong bone structure? Fine bone structure? Sensuous hips? These are all possibilities along with many others. The key is to not pick your body apart; but rather dress the first thing that grabs the eye. For example; if you have a curvaceous body with sensuous hips then wear fabrics that have a nice drape to them. This will flow with the body beautifully and drape in a stunning manner! A general recommendation for a body like this would be to keep details of an outfit towards the upper portion of the body to balance out the hips while leaving the lower portion of the outfit simple and tidy. Once you have this first piece of information, from there you can already begin to scour through your wardrobe and see what you have that compliments that. If you're unable to hire a professional you can always go back to the mirror and ask the second thing you notice about yourself...and work up from there.

Styling yourself doesn't have to be and doesn't need to be stressful...it should be a fun and exciting way of expressing yourself and feeling good! Never anything less.

Photo Credit © Yuri Arcurs | Dreamstime.com

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. 

Do you have lots of clothing in your closet, but feel you have nothing to wear? Most of my clients answer "yes" to this question. Each and everyone one of us from CEO's to stay at home parents have been faced with this dilemma. Yet, most people rarely take the time out to find what's required in order to have a well balanced wardrobe. Your wardrobe should work for you. It should always create a "put together" look for you effortlessly while giving you an attitude of ease and confidence all at the same time. If yours doesn't do this for you, chances are you've probably had some frustrating 'last minute' shopping experiences while trying to find something appropriate for a certain occasion.

Ninety percent of what people first notice about you is your clothing and grooming! Think about it, how many times have you "sized up" how someone is groomed and put together? Clothing and grooming is not only important for first impressions, but also because if affects everything else about you. It will actually have an impact on your body language and gestures. How many times have you gotten a new outfit, haircut, makeover (you get the idea) and can actually feel a shift in how you carry yourself? All of a sudden you may feel yourself smiling more, feeling confident, and striding (or for some strutting) differently; it's incredible how it affects us!

So in order to make sure we have this positive impact on ourselves on a regular basis it's
important we take time to build our wardrobe appropriately.

The next step is to audit, plan and shop. Take a peak in your closet and take the following
actions steps:

1) You want to remove everything that is not in the correct size. Things that are kept for the possibility of a size increase or decrease should be stored in another area as they are not being currently used.

2) Remove everything worn out.

3) Remove everything outdated. If you look outdated, it is assumed your job skills are also.

4) Remove everything not worn in a year. Don't keep things "just in case", if you do, pack them away in a separate area.

5) Remove everything that does not feel great when worn; remember, if you don't feel good, it will show on you!

6) Remove everything that does not enhance the image. If you aren't sure what works for you and what doesn't, hire a professional to tell you.

Now that you know what you have in your closet and can plan for things you need, the biggest questions now is, "what do I spend"?

Believe it or not, the suggested annual clothing investment for all clothing items (including inner wear, outerwear, and accessories) is 5-10% of the gross annual salary or 5-10% of what you desire to be your income(if you plan on moving up in your job). You don't want to be walking into a job situation wearing a $199 suit when the lifestyle requires something much higher.

Be classic or current in what you purchase and remember that you get what you pay for. The bottom line is your clothing should make you shine in all situations while being appropriate at the same time. Remember, your clothing is there to work for you...not the other way around.

Photo Credit © Edward Bock | Dreamstime.com

1.    Don't Number Crunch - You can find a great piece of clothing at any price; it doesn't have to have a designer price tag to look good.  How you put pieces together is the real trick.

2.    Have Confidence- A little poise goes along way, if you feel fabulous, you will look fabulous.

3.    No Matchy-Matchy- Your shoes, bags, and belts don't have to match each other, trying mixing it up black and brown work wonders together when done right.

4.    Just Say No to Panty Hose- unless they are a great pair of opaque tights, the nude panty hose have to go, try wearing a bronzer over freshly shaved legs to get an up to date look, and please do not wear them with open toe shoes!

5.    Mix and Match- Try adding different textures leather with soft cottons, floral prints with stripes, stay in the same color hue and you will pull it off perfectly.

6.    Strut Your Stuff- Tailor your clothing to fit your shape, don't' just let pieces hang miscellaneously, have them work with your body not against it.

7.     Do White- Whites, creams, beiges are luxurious colors that can be worked into a wardrobe all year round, try white straight leg pants with brown boots in cooler months for a chic look.

8.    Take Care of Your Wear- If you are meticulous with your clothing it will show, there are care instruction tags for a reason.

9.     Splurge on a Bag- A handbag is the best place to put a little extra cash; it is a piece used every day, and deserves a little more attention.

10.    Complete the Look- If you have an amazing dress on or just a basic T and Denim, don't forget to finish the look, accessorize, including your hair, a touch of mascara, gloss, and a manicure.

Photo Credit © Yuri Arcurs | Dreamstime.com

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.

Tammy Gibson, a mother in Redlands, CA, owned an online retail boutique for expecting and new moms prior to starting her successful blog A Mom in Red High Heels. 

"I really felt there was a need to encourage moms to keep up their beauty routines during the early days of motherhood, as well as wearing fitted clothes that are stylish," she explains. "Discovering retail was not my calling, I wanted to continue sharing a message that I felt was important, so I started A Mom in Red High Heels to empower moms through beauty and style."

"I am inspired by other moms, my own experiences, and of course the beauty and fashion worlds. I think with the right clothes, beauty routine, and hairstyle, a woman feels better about herself and as a result of the great confidence, she tends to be a better mom." 

"The three special issues that moms face: lack of sleep, lack of time for herself, and a lack of budget," says Tammy. "A Mom in Red High Heels offers up beauty and style tips that moms can actually work into their hectic schedules to look effortlessly fantastic." 

"Beauty Product Reviews is a popular content area on the site. I have a team of moms that help review a variety of beauty products and we always note the 'Mom Value' for each product. As a product junkie, I have a ton of products from a variety of price points but other moms may not enjoy playing with products the way I do. They need to know what is worth their money, which products are multi-taskers and where the products are available. My mom panel team works to bring that information to the site." 

"Hair content is always very popular also! Far too often moms end up in the 'ponytail rut.' We offer a hairstyle makeover tool where readers can 'try on' new styles. We also make hairstyle makeover suggestions! A couple of moms have taken our advice and gotten some really great new looks!" 

"The future holds limitless opportunities, starting with the relationships the site already has," she says. "I've recently joined the Beauty Bloggerati

on DailyMakeover.com which is 'an elite group of beauty bloggers from across the country who scoop the latest trends, spill insider tips, and are addicted to reviewing products. They sniff, slather, smear, blend, buff, and blow-dry to bring you the latest beauty news every day.' I anticipate a lot of new opportunities with this relationship! I am also a part of Total Beauty's Blog Community, which has aided in building relationships with brands and learning more about professional blogging. I am also a Dictator for LuckyToes.com, a shoe shopping gallery put out by CitySearch." 

"I am currently looking for mom bloggers in the New York and LA areas to help attend beauty/fashion events so that we can cover more news for the readers," she says. "If you know any, e-mail me! My hope is to make A Mom in Red High Heels THE go-to beauty/fashion site for moms!"

"Finally, I do plan to write a book based on our site content. My husband is a good writer and has taken a variety of courses in writing books. I hope to enlist his help on the project after both my kids are in school fulltime."

To check out Tammy's tips and tricks, visit AMomInRedHighHeels.com. 

CurrentVine.com is offering readers an exclusive discount code for women's resort wear line Float. The code is good through June 10 and takes 25% every piece in the collection. Offering goods such as tunics, bathing suits, coverups, and bags, Float has been featured in Lucky, Women's Wear Daily, and People.

For details on how to get your discount, visit http://www.currentvine.com/2009/05/float_code09/.

It's that time of year when your boots go to the back of the closet and strappy sandals come to the front. Times are tough and a new spring wardrobe may be out of the question, but no need for your style to suffer.

Celebrity stylist and Airplus spokesperson, Tara Swennen, offers insider tips to looking great this season without spending a fortune.
 
MUST-HAVE TIPS FOR RECYCLING LAST YEAR'S SPRING WARDROBE

Quick fix for favorites that feel dull...

Re-dye pieces to bring them back to life.  Shoe repair stores can re-dye most accessories such as shoes and handbags or do it yourself and save even more.  Most convenient stores sell clothing dyes that you can easily use at home.

Recycle footwear for added comfort...

Brands such as Airplus offer affordable products for making old shoes fit like new.
 
Use Airplus 'Sure Steps' for worn out and slippery soles.
Adheres to shoe soles to provide ultimate traction for all shoe types
Helps prevent slipping on most surfaces
Discreet black construction










Airplus 'Steppies' for stretched out shoes.
Targeted relief for forefoot
Tapered design fits into any shoe, casual and formal
Invisigel keeps comfort unnoticeable in open shoes
Guaranteed to stay in place






Airplus 'Ultra Arch'
Instant arch relief
Customized fit and support
Guaranteed to stay in place







Airplus 'Hug My Heels' for shoes that have lost their support.
Contoured design cushions heels
Prevents irritation and heel slippage
Improves shoe fit
Guaranteed to stay in place






Give shoes a good polish and they will be as good as new.

Tailor old pieces for a fresh fit...

Try things on before recycling them to make sure they fit properly.  Most women simply skip over ill fitting pieces but once tailored to fit you will be much more inclined to throw it on again.

Readjust lengths for a new look...

Turn a knee length A-line skirt into a short and sassy mini, make a long sleeved blouse into a cap sleeve top or even add a ruffle to dresses for a new twist.

Look to current trends to rethink your outfits...

Be bold when mixing and matching prints and patterns.  Pair a small print with a larger one or a bright color with a fun graphic or texture for an updated look.  If you think outside the box you can create a multitude of new looks. 

Host a girls "Swap" night...

This is a new trend among friends.  Order pizza, drink cocktails, and bring your least used items to swap with friends.  Remember, one person's junk is another person's treasure.

Find Airplus at these retailers.

Two years ago I started my first blog.  I had no idea what I was going to write about or why anyone would even be interested in reading it.  My mom was the first and only comment for quite some time until I started this little thing called the "Chic Challenge." 

My first question was... In 1981, this Chic Gal proudly sported the popular "Farrah Fawcett" hairstyle. What other famous icon's hairdo did I mimic in my teen years?  I got eleven answers to my question and gave away my first fabulous prize.

My second question was...In the late 1970's, my mom and I collected this stylish and popular brand of shoes. Mom wore the flats, while I wore the platforms. I even had them in a pair of boots! Can you name this brand of shoe and the color of my favorite pair?  OK, that one stumped people. 

So I was off to question #3...In the late 1980's, I worked on Greenwich Avenue in a well known designer's store. My closet was filled with floral dresses, short corduroy skirts, sailor dresses, tights, petticoats and high-necked blouses. When I quit, I couldn't wait to throw it all away! Who was the designer? In addition to women's clothing, what other 2 lines was this designer famous for?  Seriously, is it really that hard?

Apparently yes because my best friend actually emailed me to complain.  What? No one is up for a challenge anymore?  I threw in the proverbial towel and decided that I wouldn't torture people with my crazy questions ever again...until now.  Knowing how incredibly intelligent Chic Galleria readers are, I decided that it was time to pull out the completely useless trivia that seems to rattle in my brain from time to time.

Think it's time for the "Chic Challenge" to be dusted off and revisited.  Think we'll open it up to reader submissions too.  Yes...I've got prizes...tons of them...and lots of stuff tossed in the virtual junk drawer. 

We'll start with something easy...

In your opinion, who is the greatest band of all time?

To get this ball rolling, Chic Galleria is giving a $15 Starbucks giftcard to 1 lucky Weekly Newsletter subscriber or someone who leaves an answer here.  Ends April 9 midnight EST. Winner chosen at random.

Here are your random numbers:

1  Congratulations!

Photo Credit © Jose Antonio Sánchez Reyes | Dreamstime.com

I am quite open-minded when it comes to challenging fashion "rules" and creatively styling fun pieces with basics. So I am never shocked with Gwen Stefani, my music and fashion role model, making it on lists that denounce her judgment calls, questioning her so-called "misses." I am also never surprised when this same celeb makes it to certain trendsetter lists and appears in lovely designs that showcase her personality.

Both categories that Gwen seems to straddle with nonchalance are kudos to her style. Either she is criticized for her poor choice of fashion sense, which proves her daring and confidence in the world of celebrity, or is praised for her jackpot outfits - proving the exact same thing! So, I ask you - which celeb do you think is also a switch hitter?

Let's see if you can tell which looks Gwen has been criticized for and those which are probably making it to the book of icon status:






From top to bottom/ my ideas featuring these Gwen images:

Blue hair next to leopard dress: http://www.mtv.com (both imgs)

Pregnant bad and good: http://www.whosdatedwho.com (bad) and http://www.people.com (good)

Trenchchoat good and bad: http://dailyblabber.ivillage.com (bad) and http://www.pursepage.com   (good)

Hair good and bad: http://www.celebrific.com (bad) and http://www.stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com (good)

Want to see Gwen Stefani as a teenage brunette? My website, Good Girl Gone Shopping, leaves little to your imagination with a TMZ.com video that will show you how one girl's passion has made her a star.

The Recessionista Is Here To Help! Mary Hall is The Recessionista.  Once a fashionista, when the economy took a nose dive, Mary sought ways to stay fashionable and chic at affordable prices.  As a hobby she stated blogging about her new bargains on therecessionista.blogspot.com.  Mary and I were coworkers in my former life as an attorney.  We recently had lunch to catch up and the following are some questions that Mary and I discussed to share with Chic Galleria readers.


How do you think the economy affects the fashion world?

Fashion is a mirror of the economy.  How we dress reflects our income level and what we can afford.  Look at hemlines rising in the 20th century during WW1 and WW2.
If you look at the First Ladies inaugural gowns during the 1920s compared with Eleanor Roosevelt's one very simple inaugural gown, you can see quite clearly how the economy impacts our apparel.  In the 1920s, the first ladies had flamboyant, expensive gowns.  In contrast, Eleanor Roosevelt had a very simple inaugural gown during the depression.  The pictures in the Smithsonian First Ladies exhibit tell a  story of how style reflects economics.

In 1916, Chanel started using wool jersey in her garments because it was comfortable, and still available during WW I.  Before Chanel used it, it had only been used for undergarments. In WW II the same thing happened with Rayon. Silk was in short supply, so hosiery and dress manufacturers started making garments and stockings with Rayon, and voila, all those pretty 1940s Rayon dresses were born. It will be interesting to see what happens in our generation.


Who are some of your favorite designers?
 
I have several favorites who combine style and comfort. If I could afford it, I would buy all Chanel because it is beautifully made, the cut is superb and her styles last forever.  However, as a recessionista, Chanel is not always at hand. I like Roland Mouret, Stella McCartney, and Ceila Birtwell. I love Celia's prints.  Stella McCartney mixes vintage styles with modern sensibilities.  And Roland Mouret, I love the drape and look of his garments.  He has a great eye and his clothes really flatter a woman's figure.

And finally, I do love Megan Park, although her garments are often pricey.  She has bought beautiful Indian beading and patterns to her designs.

Have you been able to find any of your favorite brands at discounted prices?  Which one's?

Yes!!! Chanel at consigment stores and on eBay. Roland Mouret and Stella McCartney go on sale at department stores at the end of the season. I also bought Roland's Gap dresses and Stella's H&M Designs. Ceila Birtwell I have scored via her Express and Top Shop Collections.
Finally, every now and then I will score Megan Park on eBay or at a sale (Fred Segal).


As a former Fashionista, what was your catalyst for change?
 
I saw the economy slowing down, and I wanted to save more. I also wanted to help my little nephew (aged 5) who has autism.  I wanted to be able to contribute to his education and all the special things he needs.


What would you recommend to someone who is trying to find solid purchases for his/her wardrobe with a tight budget?
 
I would shop H&M (designer inspired clothing at great prices), Macy's and Loehmann's sale plus consignment stores.  All have great stuff for less.  Esp coupons at Macy's. Also, for the ultimate fashion on a budget, check Vera Wang at Kohls and Norma Kamali at Walmart. There are some really nice items in those collections at the right price.



Please tell us some of your best finds?
 
My Chanel jackets from Consignment stores. My pre-owned Marc Jabobs coat from an NYC consignment store. All the Jovovich -Hawk I bought at HauteLook's Blow Out Sale.


How can we learn more about staying fashionable in the recession?
 
Well, of course keep reading The Recessionista :) Blog. I am also developing a book based upon the blog and compiling all the tips from the blog and throwing in new ones.  I hope to find a publisher or publish it myself and make it available for download from the blog.

Any tips for men? 

YES, Loehmann's now has fantastic men's stuff as do two of the shopping clubs I feature on my blog. The Gilt Groupe and Haute Look have great men's sales. Also, if you are looking for suits, Jos A Bank has had some unbelievable sales on mens' suits this year.  I don't know how they can offer the prices they have been offering this year and make a decent profit, but it's great for the consumer.

Read more at http://therecessionista.blogspot.com or http://www.twitter.com/recessionista

Christine Elia, owner of Closet Couture, started out at Random House in the 90s and from there went to be VP and Managing Editor of the first big pet luxury play online, AnimalFair.com.  After that, she was at iVillage.co.uk helping develop the brand in the UK.  And from there she went back to NYC to be Senior Editor for lifestyle, fashion & beauty at a magazine called My Generation.

When she then moved to LA, she worked in television at ABC Entertainment and UPN Network and went to back to school at USC Film School, where she got her MFA in Motion Picture Producing.  "So I have had a multi- media career always focused on the women's space, looking at fairly concrete ways of delivering service online," says Christine.

"I had finished film school and was looking around the internet for opportunity in the women's space there and really focused on bridging the gap between reading Vogue magazine and watching Project Runway and then being at home and standing in front of your closet thinking, "Now what do I do?" I knew there was some good stable technology that might be able to address this, of packaged and delivered correctly."

"I love talking to women both on our site and in our space.  I think there are so many opportunities still to be had in the online world and in women's interest areas. We have big plans - we would like to grow it into a multi-million dollar stand alone site delivering all areas of fashion and shopping for women.  Can't tell you more yet, but stay tuned!"

Visit www.closetcouture.com. 

Dig 'N' Swap is "the easy and fun way to swap fashionable clothes and accessories with people who share your passion for fashion!"  Those of us who need a wardrobe spruce up but don't have the funds in this horrible economy, will find the Dig N Swap concept a suitable alternative to spending money. 

Dig N Swap was founded by two UCLA graduates, Li Qiu and Ibe Elbouchikhi who saw an opportunity to turn a living room party into a full-blown online concept.  Li had attended a clothing swap party hosted by a friend and thought the idea was genius.  She loved it so much, she wondered how she could grow the idea to be an online tool with more participants and more swap opportunities.  She brought the idea to Ibe who has a background in technology products management and in over a year, they launched the Dig 'N' Swap platform.

Li and Ibe have big plans for the future.  They are planning a U.K. launch in the next few weeks since receiving messages from many users abroad wanting this service their respective countries.  "We have users from over 30 countries though only the U.S. is supported at the moment. We are also planning several large enhancements to our site including added focus on social aspects of our community."

Spring is on its way and soon enough it will be time to change our closets over...out with the old and in with the new, but before you shop, visit Dig 'N' Swap!  A fantastic concept that gives new meaning to one woman's trash is another woman's treasure!  http://www.dignswap.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.

After the Duckie Brown collection, next was Charlotte Ronson, who unfortunately has become almost overshadowed by being Samantha Ronson's sister.


Samantha was DJing and backstage was on lock down before the show because Ms. Lohan was in protective custody. Right before the show started she came out with a gang of security and took her front row seat.

I managed to get one decent pic before being trampled by paparazzi. Literally. To death.

She looked great although she is very thin and her hair could use a deep conditioner. Apparently she got up before the show was over and went to kiki with Samantha in the DJ booth. I went backstage after the show but it was mayhem and L and S were swept out in a cloud of security with cameras flashing. It was kind of sad to witness. What a life.

Anyway-The Charlotte Ronson show was good. It combined post-war decadence, military details and feminine tailoring. Charlotte has this affinity for shoulder cutouts which I don't quite get but for the most part I thought the show was interesting.

Charlotte was really cute as she took a bow-but maybe she could have dressed up for the occasion just a smidge?

 

Head over to NewNowNext.com and leave Jack a comment!

Photos courtesy of Jack Mackenroth

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.

1. A fabulous handbag is a wonderful investment, look for a timeless style made by a designer who has stood the test of time like Yves Saint Laurent or Gucci the quality and craftsmanship is visible. Yves Saint Laurent black patent leather 'Totem' east/west bag


 

2. Splurging on a stunning pair of Christian Louboutin Pumps or Manolo Blahnik shoes they are the perfect way to update any outfit instantly, and these baby's will last way past the cheapies! CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN - Women - FOOTWEAR - Closed-toe slip-ons on YOOX.COM

 

3. Diamond Studs are a classic item in any girl's wardrobe, and are the perfect answer to what earrings! Look for good quality diamonds, the lower the letter the better try to start with G so they sparkle.  Who says only men can buy us diamonds! 1/2 ctw Round Diamond Studs


 

4. You can never go wrong investing in a pair of great fitting stylish denim, especially since it is so hard to find the perfect pair.  Look for a slight stretch, that are form fitting yet not to tight, a dark wash, and they should feel comfortable to sit in, in most cases you will have to have them tailored to fit your proportions, but this money will be well spent. AG Jeans sub stretch 'Tribeca' straight leg jeans

 

5. A distinguished coat can last you many years, look for something with some versatility such as a designer like Burberry, that has a removable hood and lining or a Chloe Wool Double Breasted Coat. Chloe Womens Clothing Fall - Winter 2008/09 - DOUBLE BREASTED COAT-

Dawn Del Russo always dreamed of opening the perfect boutique girly with a luxe flair. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Business Management, and after three years of preparation, she opened BellaDawn.com and a local shop, offering personal fashion expertise and a place to put her stylish, foot forward. Since being a featured fashion expert in print such as InStyle, Us Weekly, Life & Style, Real Simple and Elle Girl, as well as televised on Fox 5, she have seen an unbelievable increase in sales and of course exposure. "It is truly a dream come true for me!" says Dawn.

"I love art, and interior design, so I think this is a huge influence for me.  I also indulge in girly TV shows like Gossip Girls, which totally inspires some of the looks for photo shoots I do. On a more serious note, the base of all my ideas, and choices in products stems from truly chic high end European designers, when we look to Italy and France, we are able to pull unique looks that have not quite made it to the US, and I love that!" 

"We sell ton's of accessories and jewelry.  Many of our customers will come to purchase clothing and end up walking out with more accessories. A piece that just came in that I absolutely adore, is the Golden Princess Necklace, maybe since Princess is in the name..Gold Princess Colored Stone Tiara Necklace.  On the other end, since the many features in national magazines, I have seen a huge increase in our stylist-on-call service, since virtually anyone can use it, it is a quick fix to any fashion emergency!"

"Currently you will find some sweet stylist advice on the pages of Life and Style.  Belladawn.com was feature on Fox 5 web for some trendy style on a budget and for up to the moment tips I write weekly as the in house fashionista 411 on www.bettyconfidential.com. As for future plans, there are a few things in the works, my book will be out this Spring 09', and the Stylist-on-Call Service will be spotlighted on national TV."

Visit www.Belladawn.com.