NY Fashion Week Plans for Lincoln Center - First Peek

Rigoletto and Ralph, Carmen and Calvin, Donna and Divas... Much talk has been generated about Mercedes-Benz Fashion week moving to Lincoln Center this fall. The CFDA revealed the first look at the plans for September.
Instead of two main tents and a room at the library from Bryant park, the new plans have four main areas. The Theatre, The Stage, The Studio and The Box Presentation Space. The Theatre venue will have seating for 969 people and the option for a straight or U-shaped runway. The Stage venue, in white with gray carpeting, can seat 740, with stadium-style bench seats. The Studio will be the smallest runway venue, for 369 people, and The Box space is designated for presentations and events. There is also an additional venue called The Courtyard, a glass-encased outdoor space that could be used for informal presentations.
Fashion GPS will partner with IMG to allow designers to manage invitations and RSVPs online. It will also help guests be able to check themselves in via kiosks and bar codes.

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Molly Ringwald and Swarovski are Getting the Pretty Back

The Swarovski Crystallized boutique in Soho hosted the book launch of 80's icon Molly Ringwald Tuesday. The feel-good book
is filled with fashion tips and advice and illustrated by Ruben Toledo. Artist Cindy Sherman was in attendance along with many of the author's fans. Ms. Ringwald looked like a sophisticated (but barely older) version of her John Hughes envisioned self in a lace and satin sheath dress. She played DJ at one point and mingled with the cocktail sipping, fashionably attired crowd.

Photo by Stephen Lovekin

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Parsons 2010 Graduate Fashion Show

Monday night, the graduating class of the fashion design program held their benefit fashion show. The most talented of students presented their collections. I saw a lot of gorgeous, innovative knits. There was a very good balance of terrific menswear along with the womens collections.

One of the emerging themes I saw throughout the runway was a sense of the urban nomad. Many of the looks had a wrapped and cocoon-like quality to them. I don't know if that was a response to the general climate of the current fashion industry or a sense of self-comfort.

Dean Simon Collins noted that the directives for this class were craft and sustainability. One of the honorees of the evening were from Li & Fung, who would also go on to unveil a new scholarship program for new designers.

Famous alumni include Issac Mizrahi, Marc Jacobs. Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough had their senior collection purchased right off the runway, eventually becoming CFDA darlings Proenza Schouler.
Other industry heavyweights (in success, not actual weight) in attendance included designers Vivienne Tam, Vera Wang and Lorenzo Martone.

To view all of the collections, click through to the Parsons Look Book.

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Chambord First Lady of Fashion at the Kentucky Derby

Heading for the races? On April 30th, Chambord is sponsoring the First Lady of Fashion Contest during the Kentucky Derby to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Network of Strength. In collaboration with the Susan B. Komen foundation, the contest is part of the Derby's Ladies First events. Fashionistas will compete on the runway on the best incorporation of pink in their ensemble for an all expense paid trip to New York Fashion Week.

Chambord, that yummy raspberry liqueur, will also debut their Fleur de Lis cocktail at the event. Can't make it to Kentucky Oaks? No worries, you can shop for the cause at the Derby store and while you make your own drink at home:

CHAMBORD Fleur De Lis

3/4 oz CHAMBORD

3/4 oz Finlandia Vodka

2 oz lemonade

1 oz cranberry juice

Squeeze of lemon

Shake all ingredients with ice and pour into a tall glass. Garnish with a lemon twist and a black raspberry.

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Italian Designers Promote the Artisan Movement

Why do you pay the big bucks for a designer item? It's not simply for the name is it? I would hope the educated consumer is purchasing their luxury piece for the work and quality too.

Gucci launched its Artisan Corner program last week, bringing their skilled leather craftspeople to their boutiques. The campaign was launched as a tour in stores of several cities, where VIP clients are able to order a customized bag with their initials embossed and an interior plaque listing the date of the event.

Dolce & Gabbana paid tribute to all of the artisans of their team during their recent fashion show. The show opened with images of their workers smiling out to the audience projected onto the big screen. The presentation also showed a video of the designers in a flurry of sketchpads with the seamstresses, tailors and patternmakers.

Domenico Dolce noted "Tailoring and craftsmanship are assets that belong to us and to Italy. From this point of view, we are very patriotic." Of course, the collection that followed on the runway showcased the final product of impeccably tailored jackets, lace and sheath dresses.

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FAB Sale Alerts: Fendi, Badgley Mischka & Manolo Blahnik!

In NYC:
Charles Chang Lima counts ladies like Oprah and Sarah Jessica Parker as fans. Lovely evening gowns, suits and dresses will be up to 90% off and there will also be a $10 goodie bin!
When: Wednesday, April 28 only! 9 am - 6 pm
Where: 264 West 40th street, 10th floor (between 7th and 8th ave.)

Manolo Blahnik Sample Sale (seriously!) This one used to be secret and open to fashion editors and VIPs only (and yes, they'll get first dibs). However, you still have your shot at these super sexy heels too. Rumor has it that Andre Leon Talley will be on hand to help you shop.
When: Thursday, April 29. 12pm - 6pm.
Where: Warwick Hotel, 54th Street and 6th Avenue

Jacadi, Dante Beattrix and Imps & Elves will have their sale for chic babies, children and their stylish Moms. Lots of current spring stuff and Mother's day is in less than 2 weeks!
When: Monday, April 26 - Wednesday, April 28. 10 am - 6 pm.
Where: 261 West 36th stret, 2nd floor (between 7th and 8th ave.)


Online:

Fendi and Badgley Mischka are having a fabulous online sample sale of clothing and accessories...woo hoo! Register to shop Monday at Noon (EST).

Furla's Ero-luxe handbags will have their online sale on Tuesday. Register to shop here.

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Loris Diran Preview Boutique Party

French-Armenian designer Loris Diran held an intimate cocktail party at his Lower East Side boutique Tuesday night. The soiree showcased sculpted designer pieces for women and men in luxury fabrics. My favorite pieces were the hourglass tailored seamed jackets and artfully draped dresses. The collection (and price point) were definitely elevated for a neighborhood (Bowery!) known for its grunge and edgy style.

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Couturious Stylist Scholarship Contest! Ends Sunday

I met the lovely ladies of Couturious.com a few months back during NY Fashion Week and loved their website concept. You can pick your model by body type, ethnicity and then style her in current collections from designers. It's like a high-tech stylish version of paper dolls.

From now until Sunday night, they have a fantastic contest for students. Rather than your typical merchandise giveaway, the site is hosting a scholarship contest for those who are seriously training to work in the fashion industry. Couturious has elevated their site from mere fashion toy to potential career tool! You can't fake this one, you actually need to enroll in one of the top fashion schools that are participating if you win.

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Fashion Inspiration Benefit for Leukemia & Lymphoma

A little north of Manhattan in Saratoga Springs, a champagne celebration was held to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Organized by Kristina Krawchuk and Natalie Sillery,the event showcased the work of Theia designer Don O'neill ( a favorite of Carrie Underwood) and millinery artist Kokin in a fabulous fashion show at the town's Preservation Hall. Based on the photographs, everyone looked beautiful partying to benefit a good cause. To donate or volunteer, click through here.

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Designers For Earth Day - Fashion Showing Love for our Planet

Is it an oxymoron for fashion houses to get involved in Earth Day? It may seem like an industry that promotes consumption and capitalism wouldn't put it high on their priority list, but that is simply not true. Major fashion designers, luxury, trendy and sporty are using their cachet and merchandising skills to help our dear planet.

Designers like Stella McCartney, Proenza Schouler, Vivienne Westwood and Gucci have contributed items for Christie's Bid to Save the Earth auction. The proceeds of which benefit charities that focus on environmental causes. Prizes include lunch with Vera Wang and tickets to the Vanity Fair Oscar party.

Uber-chic department store Barney's has partnered with Loomstate label to create a series of organic cotton inspired by NBC's peacock logo. A percentage of proceeds will benefit the oganization 1% for the Planet as well as the charities involved with the Christie's auction.

Louis Vuitton will celebrate the 40th anniverwary of Earth Day by donating 10% of the day's online purchases to Global Green. The non-profit works with the Green Schools initiative in major cities.

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Anna Wintour's Master Class

Monday night, an intimate group of fashion students, the style savvy and curious industry vets were privy to a master class at Pratt Institute given by legendary editors Anna Wintour and Hamish Bowles.

The evening started with Ms. Wintour’s remembering of iconic fashion photographer Irving Penn. While many people know her as the muse for a certain Prada-wearing Devil character, it was actually touching to hear her get choked up about her friend. Media insiders smirked when she recounted several anecdotes where Mr. Penn took her to task for making Vogue too commercial. The editor also reminisced about his gracious manner and how he dressed formally to walk 5 blocks to work, only to dress down into jeans again at the office.

The dapper Hamish Bowles next led a discussion about other notable contributors that shaped the magazine. He described Mainbocher as a “Truffle hound for talent”. Under his direction came striking images by Horst. Diana Vreeland brought movement and energy along with photographer Richard Avedon. Mr. Bowles presentation led up to contemporary work by Annie Leibowitz, Bruce Weber and Mario Testino.

In the Q&A portion of the event, Anna Wintour was asked what she was doing to help young designers. That particular person was verbally spanked as she replied that the student had not done her homework. She explained that her Vogue/CFDA fashion fund had developed, promoted and financially aided many talents like Alexander Wang and Rodarte.

On the subject of sustainable fashion, Ms. Wintour noted that there was a new style ethics column, and green fashion designers that were helped by the fashion fund as well. She was also supporting an eco-collection by Michael Kors.

On the touchy subject of fashion bloggers, Hamish Bowles and Anna Wintour graciously noted that all coverage of fashion was a good ting. They embraced it, but pointed out that Vogue’s own website had it all and their professional experience made the difference…

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Toronto Alternative Fashion Week April 21-25

What's this? A fashion week where the focus is on the art and less about the front row celebrities and commerce. The Alternative Fashion Week in Toronto is a multi-arts showcase of independent creators, performers and designers. It celebrates clothing not as merchandise as much as an artform. The guest list seems to include more curators than editors, and artists of different mediums collaborate for a collective presentation. Toronto is one of my favorite cities in the world and I love seeing such a positive event that supports the indie designer.
Check the blog that features a lot of the clothing sketches and stories leading up to the runway.

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FAB Sale Alerts: Kooba, McQ by Alexander McQueen and More...

In NYC:

Kooba Sample Sale

Sexy, sophisticated handbags from one of my favorite designers. Designer Abbe Held counts Hayden Pannetiere,

Tuesday, April 20th ,10:00 am - 8:00 pm
141 West 36th Street, Between Broadway and 7th Avenue

Paul & Shark Sample Sale
Italian-made casual pieces for the guys up to 70% off retail...
Tuesday, April 27th - Thursday, April 29th
79 Madison Avenue (near 28th street) suite 1206

Saks 5th Ave:

Check out the friends and family event with this coupon April 22 - April 25. It's good for shopping in-store or online.

Online:
McQ by Alexander McQueen on Gilt.com Tuesday.

Cynthia Rowley on RueLaLa Tuesday.

Rock & Republic on Ideeli Wednesday.

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Monster Chic - Big & Furry Makes the Cut?

For anyone who observed the runway offerings for Fall 2010, you probably noticed that fur was making a comeback. At first, I was excited that it signaled a return to luxury. Now, as I look over the past year, I realize that it has less to do with decadence, but an excuse to be a beastly ogre.

While I expected movies like Young Victoria and Coco Before Chanel from 2009 to inspire fashion trends for this year, I never expected Shrek and Where the Wild Things Are to make the cut. The cast of the Green monster movie starred in a photo spread for VMAN magazine. Downtown chic boutique Opening Ceremony offered an entire collection around the wild ones. In Paris, right there on Chanel's icy catwalk, was the Abonimable snowman. I suppose when you are over-sized and covered in hair, it hides all sins...

That's just what every girl needs...To have her boyfriend's Star Wars Wookie fantasies validated.

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Fashionable Film Series at the New School

Looking for a dose of Givenchy? Audrey Hepburn? Edith Head? Jane Fonda?
The New School is screening a series of fashionable movies at the Tishman Auditorium.

On Tuesday, April 20th, 7:30 pm, Billy Wilder's Sabrina will be introduced by Vanity Fair correspondent Amy Fine Collins. The movie features the exquisitely attired Audrey Hepburn in a romantic triangle with Humphrey Bogart and William Holden.

On Tuesday, April 27th, 7:30 pm, Jane Fonda plays an incredibly chic call-girl named Bree Daniels in Klute. Following the film, John Epperson (aka Lypsinka) will host a Q&A with Ann Roth, the Oscar-winning costume designer for the film.

Go to the Parsons, the New School website for more details. Did I mention that it was free and open to the public?

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Yves Saint-Laurent & Renee Fleming Seducing Armida

Monday evening saw a stylish premiere of the Metropolitan Opera's Armida at the Lincoln Center. The house of Yves Saint-Laurent sponsored the gala, and succeeded in bringing out the trendy set along with longtime opera patrons. Chloe Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin showed big love to the designer, as did Maggie Gyllenhaal and Patricia Clarkson.
Renee Fleming played a seductive sorceress in an island prison in this lavish production. As YSL looked ravishing in the audience, costume designer Richard Hudson's designs.

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FAB Sales Picks: Betsey Johnson, Rock & Republic, Cynthia Rowley...

NYC:

Betsey Johnson accessories and apparel are 50% -80% off at the sample sale.

Through 4/16/10: Millennium Broadway Hotel, 145 W. 44th St., nr. Sixth Ave., sixth fl.

(212-993-9251); W–F (10–10).

Elie Tahari Menswear, womenswear, shoes, and handbags are 70 to 80 percent off at their sample sale. The black jersey jeweled halter dress is $129 (originally $698) and metallic leather sandals with beaded detailing are $99 (originally $498).

Through 4/17/10: 510 Fifth Ave., nr. 43rd St. (212-398-2622);

T–F (8:30–7:30), S (10–5).

Rock & Republic is having their first warehouse sale! All denim is only $80. You'll also find men's, women's and kid's, denim, tops, outerwear, cosmetics and accessories.
4/16/10 - 4/18/10: 123 W. 18th St (Metropolitan Pavilion) 4th Floor, (212) 463-0071
Fri 4pm-9pmSat - Sun 9am-7pm

Online:

Cynthia Rowley and Clinique cosmetics on Gilt.com Wednesday 4/14/10,

Marc by Marc Jacobs on 4/15/10, alson on Gilt.

Earnest Sewn for men and women on Ruelala.com on Thursday 4/15/10.

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Zac Posen for Target 24 Hour Launch Party

Now for the latest high fashion designer to do the 'Low' dance with Target...Zac Posen is launching his collection for the big red bullseye with a 24 hour pop-up shop Thursday near Penn Station in NYC.

Sneak peeks at the lookbook for this 80's inspired, prom-friendly line have been a very hot Google search for the fashionista set.

You can shop all night while dancing to DJs and live bands.

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Sense & Sustainability Benefit Fashion Show

Eco-friendly fashion designers Swati Argade, Helen Asir, Marcus Hicks and Rachel Lyra Hospodar presented a runway show of their collections on Friday at a benefit event. The proceeds of the fundraiser benefited a documentary about the Sankara Eye Foundation and the work they do. This foundation has performed about 550,000 free eye surgeries for underprivileged people and their goal is to have more than 1 million beneficiaries by 2020.

The fashion show itself represented a diverse range of eco-friendly options. Swati Argade sent elegant, feminine dresses in organic silks and cottons. Helen Asir showed fantasy couture pieces in organic silks and jewelled embroideries. Marcus Hick's SDN and Rachel's Medium Reality collections showed menswear using hemp, organic cottons, re-purposed and vintage fabric.

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Cole Haan Fall 2010 Press Preview

The folks over at Cole Haan invited the Purse Page to preview the best stuff coming for Fall 2010. The collection was split into a "Country" and "City" theme, and were presented in their showrooms next to their gorgeous workspace and library.

The Country theme had pieces of equestrian-inspired bags. Their interpretation of saddle hardware was the antiqued horse hook. A few other bags included braided leather trim, inspired by horse whips. A variation on their signature woven texture was the etched leather bags. For men, there were big, roomy leather duffles that were already popular (and ready to be stolen) by the women.

The staff favorite was the small grouping of haircalf handbags. The sophisticated shapes were given more dimension with the dark colors of the haircalf. The horse hook hardware gave it an extra rugged appeal.

For the City theme, there were collections of crocodile embossed leather bags. This was Cole Haan's way of providing a more PC, but still stylish way to acknowledge the exotic skin trend. This also offers customers a more affordable price point as well.

The group I am most looking forward to? That would be the reversible metallic/leather totes. These were lightweight, roomy totes that had a festival metallic treatment on the exterior that was perfect for a night out. If you needed something more sedate for work, you could flip the bag inside out for a solid, matte leather finish.

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