Fashionista

Dries Van Noten Spring 2011: Strong-Shouldered and Dip-Dyed” y 11 mas

Dries Van Noten Spring 2011: Strong-Shouldered and Dip-Dyed
Last Night’s Party: OK, Cavalli Was Worth The Wait
Dolce & Gabbana Are “Well Done Chickens,” Open New Store to Showcase Spring Chickens
Racked Dealfeed: Scoop, Ava Maria and Club Monaco
Sammi Sweetheart Wants to Get Into Fashion, Design Hair Extensions
Would You Rather…? The Speed Racer Edition
Street Style: Nanou’s Splash of Red
Paris Fashion Week Spring 2011: The People and Parties You Don’t Want to Miss
Fashion News Roundup: Bing Partners With The Row, Florio to IMG, and Donna Karan’s New Online Digs
Juicy Couture Hires American Eagle’s Head Designer

Brad Bids Farewell to Rachel Zoe

Dries Van Noten Spring 2011: Strong-Shouldered and Dip-Dyed

Posted: 30 Sep 2010 07:00 AM PDT

Dries van Noten Spring 2011 Cheat Sheet:

deceptively narrow, squared-off wedges
ombre
menswear
THE white shirt dress
shimmer
sparkle
Oriental prints
wide shoulders
wide legs

PARIS–Has Dries Van Noten ever produced a bad collection? Not that I can remember, and I’ve been studying the printsmaster since the mid-’90s. But this one was particularly palatable, mostly because he kept the prints to a minimal–I’m getting sick of digital textiles, aren’t you?–and produced a collection that, while anything but trendy, was incredibly on-point and wearable.

I’m a sucker for a good shoulder pad, so Van Noten’s oversized, bulky-shouldered blazers in shimmering pastels spoke to me–as did the suede pumps in lavender, grey, and terra cota. His pants were incredibly wide, relaxed, and a bit wrinkled. (I’m assuming that was done one purpose.) As for his signature prints, there was an ombre–if you can call that a print–and some Oriental inspired florals, but nothing too jarring or in-your-face. They swept across the bodice of the garments, but without making a brash statement.

As the models took their final walk, Florence and the Machine wailed in the background. A grand way to kick off Paris Fashion Week.

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Last Night’s Party: OK, Cavalli Was Worth The Wait

Posted: 30 Sep 2010 06:00 AM PDT

PARIS–In general, I’m a pretty impatient person. Which means if I role up to a party and there’s a massive queue, I typically just walk away.

But I really wanted to attend tonight’s Roberto Cavalli 40th anniversary celebration at École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts. Probably because it’s the first day of Paris Fashion Week and I still have the energy to do more than write. Also, Cavalli knows how to throw a proper party. I knew it would be good. At least the food would be good.

So around 10pm, I left my hotel and headed over. As I walked up to the gate, I instantly knew that arriving an hour and a half after start time was a bad idea. Yet I was able to easily weasel my way to the velvet rope. They weren’t allowing anyone in at that moment, but I assumed it would be soon enough.

An hour later, I was still waiting. As I mentioned before, this is not my thing. But you know, it was kind of interesting. I saw about a gazillion celebrities, models, and top editors wander around the premises–Francesca Sozzani looking lovely and happy next to Italian actress Valeria Golino, Carolyn Murphy, Anja Rubik–all the while listening to crazy party goers try to get through the gate. People will say some crazy shit to get into a party. They will yell and scream. They will violently push. As impatient as I am, I just can’t do that. But something–a masochistic part of my subconscious–kept me just behind that rope.

Then, luckily, a very kind, patient publicist pulled me out of the crowd. I was in.

And I must say, it was strangely satisfying. Probably because, as I entered the ballroom, I heard the few moments of Kylie Minogue singing “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” as everyone drank champagne out of red goblets. (Apparently Minogue was paid an exorbitant amount of money to perform. Although I’m not surprised. In Europe, Kylie is as famous as Madonna.)

There were tall banquets filled with berries, grapes, petits fours, and other sweeties. Everyone grabbing for the desserts seemed to be clad in Cavalli–there was lots of leopard print and gold sequins going around.

I ran into Bryan Boy, who looked fetching in a sequined Kenzo cardigan lined in fur at the bottom. Soon enough, Mr. Cavalli himself was onstage with Heidi Klum, thanking everyone for attending. Out came a massive 10 foot white and gold cake alive with candles.

Cavalli was followed by a DJ whose name I can’t remember. (Karlie Kloss’ friend was quite offended by the fact that I didn’t know who he was. “He’s very well known!” she explained to me. However, she was British, and the Brits love their DJs, so I will forgive her for judging me.)

“I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas, which was my cue to say goodbye. But not before seeing Tyra Banks saunter out the door. “We love you Tyra!” Mr. Boy yelled after her with giddy affection. We do indeed. And we love Cavalli. Because who else is fabulous enough to making waiting in line for an hour worthwhile?

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Dolce & Gabbana Are “Well Done Chickens,” Open New Store to Showcase Spring Chickens

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:05 PM PDT

Over Milan fashion week, in addition to putting on two runway shows, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana also opened a new store on the Via della Spiga (Milan’s Fifth Ave.) called Spiga2. It’s a unique concept store: The designers hand picked from the collections of 25 young designers to feature alongside their own accessories.

Dolce & Gabbana are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. But they remember what it was like to be young and starting out. “We are like well-done chickens,” they said, a little lost in translation. And it’s time, they decided, to give back to the spring chickens out there.

It’s an admirable move, and the young designers they’ve selected (including some more well known names who show in New York like Yigal Azrouel and Sophie Theallet), are thrilled.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for newer designers,” says Heather Williams, whose shoe line is featured in the store. “I’ve been in business for two years, and the press in Italy has been fantastic, but a lot of times buyers are apprehensive of foreign brands, so it means a lot to have a big brand validate your retail presence.”

Even though the store has only been open a few days, the design duo said young designers are already coming by the store with their portfolios, hoping to earn a spot in the next line-up.

“We know what it’s like because we started with just two million lire,” said Gabbana. “We hope people copy us.”

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Racked Dealfeed: Scoop, Ava Maria and Club Monaco

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 02:30 PM PDT

Scoop
 Deal: Up to 80% off spring/summer merchandise
When/Where: Wednesday, September 29 through Monday, October 11. Weds September 29 9am—7pm, Mon—Wed 11am—7pm, Thurs—Sat 11am—8pm, Sun 11am—6pm. 875 Washington St at 14th Street (212-633-6539)

AvaMaria 
Deal: Marc by Marc Jacobs shoes starting at $80, DVF dresses starting at $80, Catherine Malandrino dresses starting at $108, and more
When/Where: Wednesday, September 29 through Friday, October 1. Daily 11:30am—7:30pm. 107 Crosby St at Prince St (212-966-0909)

Club Monaco
 Deal: Low prices on true samples for men and women
When/Where: Tuesday, September 28 through Thursday, September 30. Tues—Weds 9am—noon and 1pm—5pm, Thurs 9am—noon. 601 W. 26th St between 11th and 12 Aves, eighth floor, suite 800 (no phone)

Urban Outfitters
Deal: Enter code TEENVOGUE at checkout to save 20% off your order and get free shipping
Ends: October 31, 2010

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Sammi Sweetheart Wants to Get Into Fashion, Design Hair Extensions

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 02:30 PM PDT

Jenni “JWoww” Farley has always been the stand-out fashionista of the Jersey Shore girls, what with her barely there crop tops draped over her gravity-defying boobs and her new demure clothing line, Filthy Couture.

But now Sammi “Sweetheart” Giancola is saying she wants to get involved.

“I’d love to get into fashion and designing hair extensions and hair products,” Gioncola told Gurl.com.

Hair extensions seems like a natural fit for Giancola. She’s always flat ironing her mane or fussing with it, even though it always seems like a perfectly gleaming column to me. Whatever she’s using now blends in pretty seamlessly with her real hair, so I trust that she’ll try to put out a quality product. As for a clothing line? Not sure how it will be that different from J-Woww’s line. Maybe more hot pants, less bra tops? And if Sammi is encroaching on J-Woww’s territory, does that mean another cat fight?

And all this is not to diminish Snooki’s style, which I love. Whenever she decides to launch a line of rhinestone encrusted sunglasses or a hairspray line, I’m behind it 100 percent.

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Would You Rather…? The Speed Racer Edition

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 01:00 PM PDT

Would you rather race in Marni’s SS11 sporty ensembles or ride in Miu Miu’s AW08 jockey-inspired looks?

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Street Style: Nanou’s Splash of Red

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 12:00 PM PDT

Name: Nanou

Occupation: Model

Agency: Next

Where are you from originally? Belgium

What was the last movie you saw? Ed Wood

What is the most prominent color in your wardrobe? Black

What’s your favorite food? I love seafood.

If you were to get a tattoo today, what would it be? The word “end” on my wrist…but I would never get a tattoo.

Where are your pants from? They are vintage.

**All photos by Ashley Jahncke.

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Paris Fashion Week Spring 2011: The People and Parties You Don’t Want to Miss

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 11:00 AM PDT

PARIS–So I’ve landed in fashion’s beloved city, and I’m seeing Dries van Noten, Gareth Pugh, and Rochas later on today, but amidst the 90-plus shows are a gazillion good parties. Here’s a sampling of what’s on. If you’re in town, these are what you don’t want to miss:

Roberto Cavalli’s 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Party: Tonight
The Cavalli maison is turning 40, and celebrating with a grand party at Ecole des Beaux-Arts. There will be “special performances,” which we’re betting will include Leonna Lewis and Taylor Swift, who both sat front row at the designer’s Milan show.

Vogue Paris’ 90th Anniversary Gala: September 30
Carine’s tome is turning 90, so expect this to be the best-looking party of the week. Oh, and it’s a costume ball. So wear a mask.

H&M Champs Elysees: October 4
After struggling for years to secure a spot on the high-end shopping street, the fast fashion giant has opened a new flagship on the Champs Elysees, which means it’s time party.

Printemps & V Magazine: October 5
If you were too tired, like me, to see Courtney Love play at Don Hill‘s during New York Fashion Week, now’s your chance. She’ll be performing at this “Printemps Loves New York” party, hosted by V Magazine and the French department store.

There’s plenty of other stuff going on, but these are the ones you simply cannot miss. Au revoir, for now!

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Fashion News Roundup: Bing Partners With The Row, Florio to IMG, and Donna Karan’s New Online Digs

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 10:00 AM PDT

From Zoe to The Row: Every time one of those weird Bing “commercials” came on during the Rachel Zoe Project, we couldn’t help but think, “Why is Microsoft trying so hard to make Bing happen and why are they targeting Rachel Zoe’s audience?” Now, they’re tapping into another fashion brand–The Row. In an exclusive partnership, Bing.com will air coverage of their SS2011 collection in two “short films.” A teaser is up now. According to a press release, this collab makes sense because, “Bing and The Row share a commitment to visual beauty which combine for a unique partnership.” Okay, Bing. {Bing.com}

Tom Florio to IMG: Tom Florio left his publishing position at Condé Nast over three months ago and we’ve all been wondering what his next job would be. Turns out, IMG created one for him. The company announced today Florio’s appointment as senior advisor for fashion to the office of the chairman, effective October 1. {Daily Front Row}

Awkward Next Top Model: On Monday night’s live finale of Australia’s Next Top Model, host Sarah Murdoch announced the wrong winner, only to find out through her earpiece and correct herself after Kelsey made her heartfelt acceptance speech. Awkward. However, all is not lost for Kelsey. Because of the mistake and closeness of the votes, both her and Amanda (the real winner) won the grand prize which is $25,000, a trip to NYC and a Harper’s Bazaar cover. {DDG Daily}

New York Minute: Donna Karan (and DKNY) just relaunched their e-commerce site and it’s kind of amazing. In addition to a seamless shopping experience, there’s tons of original content including behind the scenes footage, user-generated content, the “DKNY Times,” “Donna’s Journal” and a contest where you can enter to win a $10,000 Donna Karan wardrobe. {Donna Karan/DKNY}

The Adventures of Karl and Courtney: This short animated film hilariously and brilliantly depicts Courtney Love’s “style evolution.” Love commissioned filmmaker Michael Mouris to make the film, which includes cameos by Karl Lagerfeld, André Leon Talley and a magically gifted Birkin Bag. It’s entitled “The Dark Night of the Soul.” {Huffington Post}

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Juicy Couture Hires American Eagle’s Head Designer

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 09:30 AM PDT

If you love Juicy Couture’s velour track suits–no judging, we promise–but find $196 price tag a bit jarring, good news:

Liz Claiborne, the company that now owns Juicy Couture and kicked out founders Gela Nash-Taylor and Pamela Skaist-Levy about a year ago, has hired American Eagle’s chief design officer LeAnn Nealz to head up the brand, reports WWD.

It can be deduced that her role will not only be to update the brand’s image, but also to make it even more mass than it already is. Which hopefully means slightly lower prices.

Prior to American Eagle, Nealz worked at Gap, Banana Republic, Nine West, Theory, and ck Jeans. So her experience is in mass market retail. Much like Deborah Lloyd, who has successfully maintained the DNA of the Kate Spade brand (also owned by Liz Claiborne) while keeping the prices moderate and expanding its reach, Nealz’s job will be to freshen up the Juicy look, while making it easier for more people to buy more pieces.

Designer Erin Fetherston, who’s been working with the brand since the spring, will end her creative consultancy at the end of 2011.

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 09:00 AM PDT

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Brad Bids Farewell to Rachel Zoe

Posted: 29 Sep 2010 08:05 AM PDT

It’s the end of an era. Brad Goreski, Rachel’s one and only, has made the decision to leave Team Rachel Zoe, effective October 1. The split was amicable, according to People. Brad explained, "I love Rachel and she's taught me everything I know. But there's a point where either I do it now or I'll never know what it's like to spread my wings and soar."

We feel you Brad, and we have to say we’re not entirely surprised. There was a lot of foreshadowing in last week’s episode of The Rachel Zoe Project. Speaking of which, how will that show go on without Brad or Taylor? And, um, how will Rachel live? She laments, “No one's ever going to be Brad to me."

No one will ever be Brad to us either Rachel, but we’re excited to see what he can do on his own. And we hope he has plenty of time to spend with his dogs and boyfriend. Plus, maybe this will be good for Rachel and Rodger, who had to have been at least a little jealous of Brad.