by Mandi Pimental Walk into The Mint and you are in the presence of money. Literally. Now an expansive, ornate, seven-thousand square foot restaurant and ultra-lounge, it was once home to a traditional bank, hence earning the lavish establishment its current moniker. Keeping true to its history and having been designed around the banks original vault, the space evokes an old Hollywood feel. Rich, dark woods and fireplaces are placed throughout, set off by a well-planned lighting set-up that changes the ambiance from dinner to nightclub in the right spaces throughout the evening. Pop and house music by resident DJ, DJ Design, bring the lounge to life. One of the most interesting pieces of design to note was not the beautiful and expansive thirty-foot bar that is situated inside the nightclub, although impressive, it was the more talked about champagne bar that sits inside the co-ed bathroom. So if any of the ladies or gentleman need a drink refresher while mingling in the long line for the bathroom you need to look no further than the champagne bar. A truly interesting idea, the original, refreshing touches such as these keep a jewel like the Mint on the radar. Having just celebrated its one-year anniversary with their clever “Heist” party on June twenty-second, this popular hotspot was in full swing. Patrons could pose with classic photos of Marilyn Monroe on the red carpet and additional touches of old Hollywood were highlighted throughout the evening and DJ Design provided the music until close. Having earned its title as one of the hottest, and most glamorous, lounges in Scottsdale, The Mint is in full swing at any event that is happening inside, and outside, their doors. The expansive patio is one of the largest for a nightlife venue. Having previous success with his former endeavors, Sandbar and RnR, Dean Slover is a conceptual genius when it comes to placing the right additions in town that Scottsdale partygoers are looking for. If a fantastic meal is what you are seeing, look no further than The Mint. The restaurants elegant menu, by master chef Johnny Chu, is Asian inspired and offers mouth-watering options from appetizers to dessert. An appetizer, such as the traditional edamame, is a dish that is taken to the next level by being paired perfectly with truffle butter and sea salt. Entrees include Chu’s Sugar Cane Pork, marinated in a pineapple ginger sauce, and the Spicy Saigon vegetarian dish for the herbivores who dine. The dessert menu offerings are equally delectable, showcasing the Japanese Green Tea Cheesecake and Goat Cheese Wontons, keeping with the menus theme. For a truly special experience, indulge in the Sunday Brunch from noon until four on Sunday afternoons. Appropriately titled the 24K Bruch, it features items such as Crème Brulee Oatmeal that can be paired with a fresh white peach Bellini, or their divine Nutella French Toast. If the perfect cocktail is what you have in mind, the drink menu cleverly ties into the bank theme showcasing drinks such as the Dirty Money martini and Liquid Gold cocktail options. If you are just simply looking for an exceptional dining or nightlife experience, make plans to visit the Mint. That is advice you can take to the bank.
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Fall Sweets – by Mandi Pimental Fall has returned and that inevitably means party invitations will soon fill your inbox. Parties where there will be tabletops of scrumptious treats, beckoning you to have a taste. If you, like myself, enjoy indulging but don’t care for the pounds that follow, I am here to help. We know that the ideal holiday diet scenario goes something like this: no carbs + no sugar = you will fit into your sequin leggings when the ball drops come New Years. However, for most of us, that’s not reasonable, and it’s been proven that abstaining completely can actually lead to over indulging in the long run. Instead, try eating smaller portions of the delectable treats you crave when the season of pumpkin and spice and everything nice is upon us. You can also alter your favorite recipes into healthier versions for a win/win situation. If you crave traditional Pumpkin Pie, we’ve included a recipe for Pumpkin Pie Pudding that is only 140 calories of guilt-free goodness. If you enjoy lighter fare, but still want a hint of sweet, these Lavender Scented Strawberries with honey cream are a 150-calorie luxurious dessert to serve at your own autumn soiree. If you crave a bowl of ice cream before the winter chill is upon us, you can switch to frozen yogurt or coconut milk based ice creams. So Delicious developed an entire line of dairy-free options that are kinder to your waistline than traditional ice cream. As for toppings, choose fall market finds like warm roasted nuts or apples drizzled in caramel. And who doesn’t adore chocolate? Instead of milk chocolate, opt for heart-healthy dark chocolate, or a mug of hot cocoa made from pure cacao beans. You still satisfy your sweet craving, but save yourself quite a bit of sugar. Chocolate is also a great addition when melted and drizzled over muffins or fruit dishes. Lastly, you simply can’t miss out on good ol’ fashion baking this time of year. Wrapping up a basket of muffins for a neighbor, or nibbling on a fresh baked donut as the leaves change color, is just something we don’t want to give up. Search for organic ingredients and infuse fruit, veggies and healthy or gluten-free grains to make it healthier. A big tip to avoiding the sugar crash is to omit table sugar all together and bake with Agave nectar, raw honey or a natural sugar substitute. You can also replace oil with lighter options such as applesauce or bananas, so that you can still maintain the level of moisture you are used to. Fall is a time to be creative, a time to come together with friends and family and bake goodies over good conversation. A fun challenge would be to host a potluck and have everyone bring something that is under 200 calories per serving. It gets everyone thinking outside the box, supports the local organic food community, and you have fun. And isn’t that what this time of year is all about? By Mandi Pimental
Hair trends for spring 2014 are classically feminine and range from the simplistic to the ornate. Mixed textures were seen throughout adding depths to the looks on the runway. Ferragamo presented their models with slicked, parted hair that featured soft, textured waves flowing from the nape. Dries Van Noten kept hair natural, adding a sparkling infusion of gold into the part by mixing strips of gold leaf and hair wax. Old world braids, worn in variations such as braided around the crown or down and teased, were popular with Rachel Zoe, Rebecca Minkoff and Naeem Khan. Valentino, always one to opt for regal beauty, chose an ornate pony, worn low and silky straight, while Tom Ford opted for a windswept up do. Lastly, a trend that speaks to the beauty of the season is the inclusion of floral embellishments placed in and around the hair. When you next take time to stop and smell the roses, maybe place one in your pretty little braid. (Fall Picks – 2014 - Handbags)
by Mandi Pimental Christian Louboutin - The Makimay clutch by Christian Louboutin is pure sparkle. Pink strass crystals lend this feminine accessory luminance, while the inner lining is comprised of red faille. The gold tone zip closure is hidden, for a sleek, elegant design. $2,895.00 Delvaux – Delvaux’s Brilliant Mini is the perfect handbag for midday fall lunch meetings. This cute and compact bag features a faux-gusseted body, rolled leather top handle and the distinctive "D" buckle closure in silver. $3,600.00 Dolce & Gabbana – The sophisticated Miss Sicily bag by Dolce & Gabbana is made of the finest grained-buffalo leather and is pictured in light brown. This bag features a gold-tone and silver-tone plaque that is logo engraved as well as polished gold tone hardware throughout. The leather-lined interior features multiple pockets for the girl on the go. $2,395.00 Gucci - The Jackie by Gucci is a buttery soft hobo bag with a fierce edge. The python print leather bag features hard painted edges and palladium hardware for durability. The perfect printed accessory to liven up a neutral fall ensemble. $3,950.00 Hermes –This high-end unisex shoulder bag is a luxurious way to tote your daily necessities. Whether for work, or weekend wear, the Hermes Jypsiere features a swivel clasp on a front flap closure and a padded adjustable strap for comfort. The inside features large and small pockets, as well as a specific cell phone pocket so that you are always connected. $9,100.00 Kate Spade- The Cobble Hill cross body bag by Kate Spade is sophisticated in its simplistic style. Clean lines and black leather make this functional bag versatile. The pebbled leather is smooth to the touch, and the bag features Spade’s signature bookstripe lining. $398.00 Lady Dior - This multi-colored, calfskin “Lady Dior” is couture with personality. Designed with classic Dior style, the Lady Dior is functional with its inner pockets and outer detachable envelope. And the oversized Dior charm will let everyone know just what, or should we say whom, you are carrying. $4,900.00 Marc by Marc Jacobs - The Marc by Marc Jacobs Luna cross body bag is a streamlined bag that features sleek golden hardware. The exterior pockets make accessing important items easy, and the strap is easily adjustable for optimal comfort. $348.00 Prada - This small white leather tote by Prada is a pretty little addition to have on hand when you want to add a touch of glamour. The multi-sized gold stud embellishments add a luxurious flair to the white handbag crafted from fine Saffiano calf leather. $2,150.00 Ralph Lauren – This timelessly structured satchel is made from the finest napa calfskin and features silver hardware accents and complimentary topstitching. The Ricky 33 by Ralph Lauren presents a preppy style that is both refined and functional. This moderately sized satchel will carry your day and evening accessories effortlessly, as well as a small tablet or makeup case for the woman who needs her world at her fingertips. $2,500.00 Saint Laurent - The Saint Laurent Moujik Box Satchel is refined luxury at its best. Comprised of suede and fine calfskin, this elegant satchel is for the sophisticated modern woman that enjoys a modest handbag. It also features classic golden hardware and tonal topstitching. $2,490.00 Valextra - Valextra’s Boston Satchel, shown in Oyster, is made of ultra-soft pebbled leather and lined with ivory leather in the interior. It features multiple inner pockets for organization and additional snap-button pockets for easy access and additional storage. A great choice for casual fall afternoons. $2,300.00 Annabella Gutman by Mandi Pimental
Annabella Gutman is a multi-ethnic actor with big dreams and an even bigger heart. The star of Blink of an Eye and The Mission talks to Runway about getting into character, her philanthropy and of course fashion. And who doesn’t love a girl who stays fit by having fun outdoors while still indulging in her favorite treats? You have quite the impressive resume, having worked in film, music, television and theatre. Do you have a favorite medium that you prefer to work in? Acting for feature film is my favorite! I am passionate about acting. I love to express myself in different ways and challenge myself by putting myself in the shoes of different characters. That is my favorite part of it. In the upcoming year, my goal is to land more work in comedy and action films. You have starred in films such as Blink of an Eye and The Mission, as well as many others. Do you tend to favor dramatic roles? And how do you prepare for such roles? Blink of an Eye was a very heavy role to play. [It was] based on a woman who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and was betrayed by a friend. I had to express a lot of anger and crying. It came very natural. If I have to cry, I think about something that's sad that would make me cry, perhaps losing a person that I care about. Anger, I think about something that would make me upset, like if a good friend backstabbed me. The Mission was more comedic and it was just fun to play a goofy and clumsy person. For a role like that, it's more carefree and I'm naturally funny so I focus on being more of a character. Do you have any upcoming films or projects you are working on? As of now, I am looking to book a few projects but I can't mention anything specifically. Your accent is beautiful! Can you tell us a little bit about your background? Thank you very much! I was born in Israel, and I can speak a few different languages. On my mom's side, it's Portuguese. On my dad's side, it's Czech, Russian and Polish. Living in the United States for so many years, I have kind-off created my own accent. People usually tell me that it's very sexy and attractive and I had better not lose it. Let's jump into fashion! We have seen you rock many looks, from designer dresses to casual cut offs. What is your favorite weekend style? And do you have a favorite designer? On the weekends, I love to dress comfortable, which for me means cool sundresses or black leather pants with a tank top, depending on what I'm doing. My favorite designers are Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci. What is your favorite fall fashion trend? In addition, what is a trend you would like to see leave and never return? In fall, it's all about the colors. So, I like to dress in the cold colors like grey, black, dark purple, navy blue and burgundy. I love wearing a French coat with sexy high boots. I love leggings with a comfy sweater and leather jacket. And, don't forget a nice scarf, gloves and hat. I love all the winter and fall accessories! I don't like the ballerina skirt trend. I think that should be reserved for ballerina dancers. I don't really find it to be a cool look. I read that as a hobby you enjoy doing makeup, what are some of your top go-to beauty products? I use aloe vera and vitamin C products before I apply my moisturizer and sun block. I like Dior and Estee Lauder. A daily light makeup I use is Bare Minerals. L'Oreal and Mac are my favorites for red carpets and events. For me, it's all about the eyes. I try to make them stand out the most. As an actor, it is important to stay healthy and always look your best and you are in great shape. Can you share your workout routine? Any fall treats that you just cannot resist? Believe it or not, I love dancing in front of the mirror at home and I'm sure my neighbors hate me for it. I also like basketball, tennis, swimming, and hiking. If I need a good sweat, I go to a hot yoga class. My Coffee Bean and Juicy Fruit are my treats, not just for fall, but all year round! Throughout your career, you have lived in both New York and L.A. Two very different cultures. Do you have a favorite place to call home? I love Los Angeles! We have amazing weather in LA and an amazing lifestyle that I'd never trade for anything in the world. New York is more business, and people are walking everywhere and there's a lot more action, so it's fun to be in New York, but Los Angeles is home for me. Your philanthropy is inspiring. You have worked with top charities such as the Red Cross and World Peace One, as well as helping to rescue animals. How do you choose what charities you align yourself with, and are you currently working with anyone now? I choose to support causes that I can relate to and that I'm passionate about. When I was growing up, we had a lot of animals besides cats and dogs. Behind the house, we had a farm with chickens, cows and horses. My dad had an aquarium with fish and I had a parrot. So, I love animals and I believe in animal rights. Same with world peace, I'm very passionate about that as well. Coming from Israel, I remember being a little girl during the Gulf War, so I'm very much against violence, hatred and fighting. I try to promote peace and love, which includes helping others during times of emergency. Lastly, can you share with our readers, what is next for Annabella Gutman, and leave us with your favorite quote that has inspired you on your journey. I will continue following my passion and dreams. For the last few years, I was focused on producing, but now I'm getting back into acting and fashion. I hope to land a lot of good work as an actor and model and be able to use my name to promote the charities that I believe in. I truly believe that when you give, you receive. And here's my quote. What goes around comes around, so treat people the way you want to be treated. A guide to this seasons make-up trends.
By Mandi Pimental The overall look is au naturel this fall with accents that are daring and bold. This mix lends a nice balance that is versatile without being too overdone. From the catwalk to city streets, bare beauty with a touch of dark glamour reigns supreme. From a creamy, wine stained pout to lined eyes that sparkle, a girl will be happy to use all the tools in her make-up kit this fall. Face: Let us start with the basics. Your foundations, crèmes and setting powders will be a matte finish this season. The dewy days of summer are behind us, and a more natural and refined look is called upon for autumn. Great for all skin-types (it will tone down an oily complexion, yet lends subtle moisture to dry skin), a matte finish affords more room to play with eye shadows, liners and lip stains. When applying a matte finish foundation, make sure you first apply an oil-free moisturizer and neutral lip balm; as matte crèmes can cake on lips, eyelids and skin that is not properly cared for. A matte complexion does not equal a heavy base. You can cover problem areas with a matte concealer, without having to apply full coverage. By doing so, it will further enhance the natural look when the summery bronzers and dewy highlighters have been tucked away. A great product to achieve the matte-finish is NARS Sheer Matte Foundation. This foundation has a soft, matte finish that is sheer and is easy to build upon without being too heavy. The formula is weightless and absorbs oil, keeping your skin shine-free. In addition to its lightness, it possesses complexion-brightening properties, which improves your skins radiance and luminosity naturally. (Retail $44.00) Bare Minerals has a mineral matte foundation powder that provides the no-makeup look or feel that gives flawless matte coverage and lasts up to eight hours. Similar to the NARS foundation, the Bare Minerals matte foundation also absorbs excessive oil and will not dry out the skin. Both great options to obtain a flawless matte finish. (Retail $27.00) Eyes: As Miss Audrey Hepburn once said, “The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.” Truer words have never been spoken, as our eyes are truly the window into who we are. As women, we get the pleasure of playing them up to sparkle, to seduce, to tell a story or remain a mystery. This fall is all about drama and intrigue when it comes to playing up our pretty peepers. One of the eye trends you will be seeing this year is sparkle! Metallic shadows come into play just in time for the holidays. Natural metal shades of ore, gold, copper and silver are more fitting for fall 2013 than the bright colors that are best reserved for spring. Paired with a smoky, smudged liner it gives an air of sophistication and glamour. This brings us to our second fall trend this year: the undone, smoky eye. Unlike the artful smoky-eye that you’ve undoubtedly mastered in your early twenties, the grungy smoky eye of the season rocks an attitude that is more edgy than elegant and more flawed than flawless, but in a very good way. Liquid black liner and cat-eyes have made a comeback too and look gorgeous for a Saturday night evening on the town with your best little black dress. Meow! For day, the eyes are more understated. Extremely so, in fact. With just a light sweep of mascara, some concealer under the eyes and neutral or no shadow, the woman of fall 2013 incorporates color through her wardrobe and keeps her skin light and natural. For the best in metallic shadows: The L’Oreal Paris HiP Duo Secret shadows pair two complimenting metallic shades together to take the guesswork out of color pairing. (Retail $8.25) For the best in eyeliners: Whether you prefer liquid, gel, or pencil, you cannot go wrong with our top picks. The NARS pencil provides an intense pigment that glides on smoothly for precision. Its creamy texture is ideal for blending and smudging. (Retail $22.00) For a gel eyeliner, our top pick is Bobbi Brown’s long-wear gel eyeliner. It gives the appearance of a liquid with the ease of gel. Longwearing and water resistant it stays on without creasing. This is a great liner for pairing with your metallic shadows. (Retail $23.00) Lips: Fall is the best time of year for a perfect pout. Deep, rich colors make their dramatic appearance and this season it is all about wine. Deep burgundy, merlot and purple make up the delicious palette that works well with both a neutral and smoky eye. The purple lip caught on after making an appearance in Milan and it has made its way stateside. The deep reds seem to forever be a revolving trend and we could not be happier. Both provocative and sophisticated the deep red lip is a classic. Best picks for a dark lip this season: Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey. This lipstick gives a hint of a deep, rich color without being too bold. (Retail $18.00). Too Faced La Crème Color Drenched Lip Cream in Devine Wine gives a deep, rich color for nightwear. (Retail $21.00) Best picks for a neutral pout: Lipstick Queen by Poppy Lipstick in Bare Nude. A full-coverage matte opaque lipstick with 90% pigment. An extremely creamy lipstick that glides on smooth and moisturizes. (Retail $20.00) Nails: Finally, yet importantly, a beauty routine is not complete without a perfect manicure and this season it is all about geometric shapes and designs, forgotten is the traditional French manicure and straight lines. Also trending this fall for your couture claws, is the repeating trend of the matte finish. Popular colors for your matte-finish manicure are maroon, black and mustard. Best picks for nail care: Butter London’s Matte Finish. This matte finish top coat will create a shine-free matte appearance to any nail lacquer. (Retail $19.00) Also from Butter London, the nail lacquer in Cheeky Chops is a wonderful shade of mustard that is perfect for fall. (Retail $15.00) For a dark, wine hued nail, look no further than OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark gel color. (Retail $9.00) Remember that fall is a time of celebration. Do not take yourself too seriously and take time to enjoy fashion. Every girl loves to play dress-up and with the delicious options available this season, there is limitless options in feeling and looking your best. Blumarine
Blumarine’s Fall 2014 collection was elegant and feminine with inspiration from Asian culture. Texture played an important role in the collection with metallic accents and fabrics placed with sleek silks. Shoulder lines were boxed or sloping, but always strong, while cuts took cues from the kimono and turned them mini. Extravagant metallic flower patterns were the standout feature for the bulk of the collection. The show-stopper, however, was the long-sleeved and pleated gold sparkling gown with a middle slit from the neck to the hip line. The selective skin showing pushed the piece into sensual while steering clear of risqué. Emilio Pucci Emilio Pucci’s Fall 2014 collection was all about sleek fits, fur accents and mixed patterns. The inspiration seems to be all over the board, but takes some strong cues from Native American culture in some of the furs and prints. Most of the pieces kept skin showing strong but balanced. Long skirts and pants were paired with almost belly-button level V-cuts. Turtleneck tops were matched with minis a bit too short to be winter-weather practical. A few metallic and leather accents gave a nod to the seasonal trends without letting them outshine the collection. Fendi Fendi’s Fall 2014 collection was stylish and eccentric. Fur burst from seams while middle slits came high enough to reveal upper thigh. Quilt style patterns and paint splattered fabrics gave a little DIY feel to the collection. Asymmetrical mesh accents and multi-textured pieces helped give an edgy vibe while white floral accents placed on the shoulder referenced the softer side of nature. The furs dominated the show and were used even in unexpected places. A single-shoulder Mohawk style fur accent, fur asymmetrically styled over the shoulder and a cuff with fur escaping from the inside were all interesting takes to add to the collection. Overall, this collection is perfect for the fashionista with a rocker vibe. Gucci Gucci’s Fall 2014 collection was full of colored fur and leather. Much brighter than most of the cold-season collections, the style pulled a bit from a 1960s secretary look. Expertly tailored with lots of leather, this show pulls you back in time. Balancing feminine qualities, the boxy leather jackets were shown in girly pinks with distinctly elegant details. Most of the looks were multipurpose and could be worn to work or for a chic daytime date. One standout piece was a sleek and exquisite yellow leather dress with lines that meet mid-chest. The small details are what make this collection strong and modern despite almost exclusively vintage inspiration. Missoni Missoni’s Fall 2014 collection made a statement in knits. Most of the collection consisted of knits in a variety of textures, colors and patterns. The color palette was broad but featured a lot of burnt oranges, mustard yellows and vibrant blues. Trousers and collars took cues from menswear, but the cuts were undoubtedly feminine. While the looks were well-tailored, they were rarely revealing and have enough substance to lend a little warmth. The Missoni woman this fall is sophisticated and maybe even a bit conservative, but she is on-trend and doesn’t let a classic instinct keep her from a modern style. Roberto Cavalli Roberto Cavalli’s Fall 2014 collection is full of everything chic and sophisticated. Elaborate patterns and luxurious furs were centerpieces in many of looks, which ranged from menswear-inspired trousers to sheer lingerie-style dresses. Whether the looks were mostly covered or showing skin, the feeling stayed consistently sensual and expensive. The collection featured many colors but rarely together—each look seemed to stick to one hue. A few animal prints and metallic accents were used to complete the collection that seemed to show a day in the life of a femme fatale. From business to seduction, the Cavalli woman is polished, sleek and sexy. Versace Versace’s Fall 2014 collection was filled with texture, asymmetrical lines and military buttons. The styles were broad-ranged but all glamorous. There were short, but rather elegant dresses with shoulder cutouts, bright colored fur jackets matched with multi-textured pants in the same color and suits with risqué ultra-low V necks. Asymmetrical lines ran through dresses and accentuated a lean but curvy silhouette. The models were made up in simple but glamorous makeup with sleek, blunt-cut hair à la Donatella herself. Fringes lent a little movement to the collection, while bulky metallic jewelry gave a stronger edge to the otherwise elegant pieces. Balenciaga In his third season with Balenciaga, Alexander Wang put on a show that was full of sportswear nuance and fall ready fabrics. Wang implemented zippers and metallic stripes onto knitted separates that featured rounded shoulders and smooth lines. The all-American pieces that were presented on the Parisian catwalk showed technical embellishments in the form of bonded latex and paneled beaver fur. Daywear was a palette of blues, yellow and grey while eveningwear was much darker, and more elegant. Duchess satin wrap tops with wool shrugs masqueraded as evening sweaters and did so beautifully. The evening palette shined richly in shades of charcoal, silver and wine, accented with glass beads and rhinestones. Balmain If ever there was a time to adapt your personal style to that of R&B star Rihanna, this would be the collection you would want to obtain. Balmain presented a current, fashion-forward offering of edgy leather separates dressed in gold chains and attitude. In a palette of orange, olive and black, Balmain designer Oliver Rousteing stated that this collection is “all about freedom and confidence.” The shoulders of the pieces, heavily embellished in metal trimmings, were strong and rounded while the use of silk trousers and leather peplum belts softened the overall line a bit, stating that a strong modern woman can be proud of her softer side. Chanel Quite possibly the most talked about show in Paris for fall 2014 was Karl Lagerfeld’s transformation of the Grand Palais for Chanel. Creating a faux supermarket complete with produce, a liquor department and Chanel branded, well, everything, the hottest items were the candy-colored tweed separates and oversized matching bags. The hourglass silhouettes were feminine and youthful and the fabrics were predominantly tweed and wool, perfect for a Parisian winter. The classic Chanel sneaker was the footwear of choice, along with the knee high, lace up version, both lending the looks a casual, comfortable spin for when you’re out doing your shopping. Dior Raf Simons of Dior dressed his models in sophisticated silhouettes for fall. The suits were slim and the frocks were feminine, offering volume, texture and a bold palette. Designed in on-trend hues, such as cobalt, cotton candy pink and yellow, styles ranged from work-ready suits to slip dresses that moved beautifully. The multi-layered, quilted dresses stole the show. The body-hugging styles were accented with printed heels, gloves and sparkling neck jewels. Simons beautifully executed his vision of the executive woman, unencumbered by the constraints of fashion. Louis Vuitton Nicolas Ghesquière brought a mod flair to fall for his first collection at Louis Vuitton. The show opened strong with a leather snap-button coat in black that featured a caramel collar over a white turtle necked dress and knee-high boots. The A-line cut was a popular trend throughout the show, and was also seen on coats and tweed skirts. Day looks included belted, glossy leather pants with printed vests and white long sleeves with sweet necklines. Ghesquière’s traditional trouser also appeared, this time in a high-waisted style, paired with a tucked in khaki jacket. “I didn’t want to do a theme or a story,” Ghesquière explained backstage. “I tried to express easiness.” And it was a refreshing easiness that the modern woman could appreciate. Miu Miu Miu Miu’s Miuccia Prada followed suit with the sporty vibe for her fall collection presentation. In a show that felt youthful yet strong, Prada presented bright separates in cushy, quilted fabrics. Long coats were created from plastic and embellished with oversized metal fasteners, assuring protection against harsh weather. Quilted shirtdresses and short-skirts were more ski-lodge than ski lift and were paired with the most fashionable rain boots a girl could ever dream of owning. Our favorite highlights included the candy colored palette, the shimmering chevron printed coat and, of course, those boots. Stella McCartney The Stella McCartney fall presentation was as a casual, sporty collection for the active woman. McCartney described the line to be a perfect fit for the woman who possesses a “sophisticated do-it-yourself” attitude. Sweater and t-shirt dresses dominated in jewel tones, while sporty double breasted suits looked as if they’d fit in at the office or a sports game. Zippers were used as decorative embellishments, adding a unique flair to the ensembles. As eveningwear began, the masculine tailoring was behind us and slinky mini dresses, comprised of silken cord, draped the models. The dresses were an elegant twist on the overall sporty vibe; however, in keeping with the casual theme of the show, they were worn with rubber-soled oxfords and fuss-free hairstyles. Alexander Wang Inspired by patterns in weather, Alexander Wang presented a collection of looks to dress us through the lightest of rain showers to snow fall in the city. All designs held a sporty aesthetic, from the long wool coats and shearling jackets to the trouser and sweater sets. To avoid winter drab, Wang incorporated pops of fuchsia, orange and cobalt on coatdresses, slouchy trousers and turtlenecks. Models accessorized with fanny packs and shorts that featured oversized pockets that Wang stated were for “carrying cigs, a cell phone and a lighter.” The Wang woman seeks a fashionable sporty vibe that is functional and comfortable. Diane Von Furstenberg Diane Von Furstenberg’s “Bohemian Wrapsody” collection highlighted, once again, her classic wrap dress. Armed with an “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it” attitude towards fashion, the designer continues to refresh us with eclectic prints, on-trend colors, and new items that compliment her tried and true style. Mix and match prints were the stars of the show, from clouds and moons, to rosebuds and geometric prints, and Von Furstenberg used a blend of fabrics as well. Feminine silhouettes in delicate silks and luxurious fur set the tone of the show, the wrap dresses styled appropriately for fall with bell sleeves and fur handbags. Overall, we saw classically beautiful styles for all women of all ages. Jason Wu Jason Wu’s fall collection is pure elegance. Silk chiffon, wool and velvet were the fabrics of choice for a show that stated; skinny trousers have no place here and the waistline is the feature to accent this season. The show opened with a beautiful, black bustier with a hint of shimmer, paired with belted, wide legged crepe trousers. Silk dresses were seen in a palette ranging from light champagne to forest green, at various lengths, and silk trousers were paired with velvet embellished sheer tops in shades of eggplant and black. The show ended, as any romantic evening should, with women in panne velvet dresses adorned by what appeared to be a man’s overcoat to fend off the late evening chill. Nicole Miller Nicole Miller is all about fun and texture this season. Utilizing mixed prints and layering, Miller stated, “Independent women don’t need a business suit to feel strong.” Inspired by Japanese anime heroines, the line is an eclectic mix of youthful edge and casual toughness. The show opened with colorful, print heavy coats, skirts and tops made from neoprene and transformed into an all-black selection of leather separates and peacock feather embellished skirts. Fur handbags and suede ankle boots lent an added textural mix as accessories, and the hair and make-up styling was more elaborate than on most runways in New York this season. Prabal Gurung If there was a show that was wrapped up and presented with a bow, it would be the fall collection presentation by Prabal Gurung. His collection was a beautiful mix of color with ingenious textural pairings. Cozy knitted sweaters were paired with skirts made of lightweight chiffon, satins were mixed with cotton and throughout the line, Gurung implemented unique folds and draping. On-trend highlights were the chunky scarves and turtlenecks, yet the feminine silhouettes were never lost. The winter ready ensembles, including the red evening gown complete with chiffon turtleneck, were paired with strappy heels for a sense of glamour. Rag and Bone Rag and Bone took us back to the 90’s with their fall collection presentation and collaboration with Coogi. A posh 90’s ski resort to be exact, full of thick wintery separates and “Cosby” inspired patterns. Masculine silhouettes presented in the way of oversized shoulders, baggy jackets and lumberjack plaids. It wasn’t all cozy knits and cargo trousers. Designers Marcus Wainwright and David Neville also provided some beautiful, feminine pieces such as a cropped satin crepe parka jacket in a matte black as well as slinkier color block dresses. And the baggy, knee-high boots in black and grey? A must have. Rebecca Minkoff Rebecca Minkoff this season is sporty and sophisticated. In a mix of neutral basics, Minkoff presented a boy-meets-girl style aesthetic. Wool coats were seen over traditional, relaxed evening trousers in a masculine silhouette that was presented in feminine colors such as crème, lavender and dusty pink. Printed silk dresses worn under long coats were designed in darker hues such as charcoal and cobalt. A fun addition was the gold lamé evening shirt and trouser ensemble that offered a spark of glamour. Minkoff caps off the casual looks with the on-trend beanie, and keeps the evening attire more sophisticated, pairing the looks with a leather clutch. New York fashion week never misses. Each year, as we see the Fall looks paraded down each respective runway, we know to expect a mix of glamour, comfort, innovation and above all, style that surpasses some of our wildest imaginations.
Fall 2014 is about fun, it’s about casual comfort, and it’s about mixing and matching great basics. The designers this year put forth a sophisticated collection of luxuriously warm layers upon layers, just in time for the Fall chill to start nipping at our noses. It is refreshing to see many of the classic silhouettes coming back. Lady-like skirts are more demure than some of the past seasons options, with nipped waists and full, rounded skirts that hit just above the knee. Badgley Mischka presented some gorgeous options in a dark palette of smoky charcoal, black and plaids. When paired with sumptuous coats, and practical ballet flats, it paints the perfect daydream of walking for hours in Central park, sipping a hot coffee, scone or croissant in hand. In addition to the modest skirt designs, we saw dresses paired with slim trousers and cigarette pants. Another retro nod, designers Céline, Balenciaga, Kenzo, and Giorgio Armani took this look and ran with it, making it easy for women to wear a dress from the cab to the rooftop soiree without catching a chill. The possibilities with this look are endless as we saw silk Asian-inspired suits worn with lime bell skirts, military style dresses with a more basic silhouette worn with straight, pleated trousers, and wrap dresses paired with skinny denim. This is a versatile look that can be styled into ways you can wear at the office, to a museum opening, or at home in front of a cozy fire. Also keeping with the trend of comfortable separates, cozy knits were prevalent all throughout the week. Marc Jacobs and Céline presented us with many pretty pants in soft knit fabrics, tossing aside last year’s tights-heavy collections. Stella McCartney and Haider Ackermann also utilized sweater-inspired fabrics and looks from head to toe. When worn with a small belt, a crisp button up, and ankle booties, sweater-soft trousers can become more posh than pajama. A popular look that spanned across not only a multitude of runways in New York, but across the ocean as well, were robe coats. In every length and color, robe coats were worn over both separates and dresses. This laid-back casual style, favored by Moschino, Max Mara, Leonard, Marques'Almeida, and Céline, makes the statement that Friday’s are going to be extremely casual, and that it is ok to wear your bathrobe out to get your morning bagel. Just do not forget to remove your slippers. Fur was prevalent, a trend that is popular season after season, year after year. This year it has been re-worked into head wraps and as subtle accents on eveningwear. Cynthia Rowley created hats and wraps from rich caramel-hued fur to compliment her bold colored, leather separates. Ralph Lauren opted for lavender and blush-dyed vests and coats to add glamour to his Gatsby-era inspired silk dresses. A highlight was the stark contrast of Zang Toi’s dark and beautiful black satin evening gowns that were intensified by the use of emerald green fur. If you aren’t into fur and seek a friendlier option, faux fur is used by many designers worldwide and can present that same level of glam. If coat robes and faux-fur wraps aren’t your cup of tea, Phillip Lim, Oscar De La Renta, and Thakoon, presented gorgeous options in oversized-turtlenecks. Easy to accessorize, you can pair these with a nice pair of jeans and boots, a neutral leather mini or the aforementioned bell skirt. And, as an added bonus, your neck will stay nice and toasty warm, a plus if you are scheduled to belt out tunes on Broadway all season long. Or if you are just popping in to meet friends at the local pub for some karaoke. It’s always ok to dream. Holding on to the sweet days of summer were Altuzarra, BCBG Max Azria, and Moncler Gamme Rouge with their fun usage of electrifying neon. Geometric slices of every color from highlighter yellow to hot pink were seen on black and white ensembles throughout the week, assuring us that though summer is behind us, it’s not too far away. Alexander McQueen
Alexander McQueen went royal for his Fall/Winter 2013 collection this season during Paris’ fashion week. It was as if you fused together the contents of Queen Elizabeth’s closet with the stained-glass panes and painted architecture of a catholic cathedral. Each detail was intricate and ornate, and the pearl-encrusted head cages were awe-inspiring. Bedecked in white lace, pleated crinoline skirts and confining corsets that cinched the waists of the already petite-models, each piece of the collection was more fascinating than the last. The palette was a regal mix of black, white and gold, and each piece embedded with pearls. The individual dresses each took an exhaustive two weeks to create. The McQueen house has always had a love for the gothic, and this fall they have presented something truly breathtaking, though hauntingly so. Balenciaga Structured, architectural lines and marble were the star creations from the Balenciaga house this season. Debuting his first collection in Paris under the Balenciaga name, Alexander Wang kept true to the houses’ traditional style while putting a fresh spin of his own for fall. A breath of fresh air, the line presented many pieces that any woman would love to have in her fall wardrobe. The palette was a monochromatic blend of black, white and grey. We first saw a mink-sleeved cocoon coat paired with black trousers and black boot. An all-black origami dress shined in eveningwear, as did a white, knee-length, V-neck dress with the faux marble design. Aside from the marbled runway, it was the first appearance of the shows motif. The crown jewel of Wang’s new collection were the rounded faux-marble furs in black and white, paired with high-waisted velvet lace pants with a marble inspired cut out design, showing a peek of skin beneath. Accessories were minimal and were seen in black headbands and metal hardware attached to the clothes themselves. Overall, a sophisticated, wearable collection. Wang truly left a great first impression. Carven The girls of Carven strutted their sultry, animalistic side on the runway at Guillaume Henry’s fall 2013 show for Carven in Paris. “I didn’t want to make anything too sweet,” said Henry. “It’s about being strong and vulnerable at the same time.” A delicious palette of icy blue, pale pink and taupe played nicely on warm fall fabrics for coats and long dresses, and on zebra printed sheath dresses adding a sophistication not normally seen in animal-inspired collections. Models carried pastel and zebra printed satchels that complimented the ensembles. Most notable about the Carven creations are the in-house designed fabrics. Over ninety percent of the fabrics are made in-house and include mohair, latex-coated wool, leather and faux fur. Carven is staying a step ahead of the fashion game, one Mary Jane clad foot at a time. Chanel In an effort to educate other designers about global branding, Chanel dramatically centered an enormous globe in the center of their show in Paris this past February. Models walked beside the lit globe, each light representing a store location, to present the new collection. An ingenious idea in itself, this line continues to show us why there are so many lights on that globe. Chanel gave us a grittier take on fall and winter fashion and showed us that it’s alright to be a little dark, moody and a little mysterious this time of year. Models wore fur helmets, reminiscent of Anna Wintour’s iconic bob as an ode to the fashion guru. While the fabrics were heavy, the coverage was on the lighter side. Using heavy tweeds and wools, the coats were paired with pleated mini-skirts and skin tight, thigh-high leather boots that were sporadically embellished with metal chains. A stand out in the collection were the sheer overcoats, it was an interesting choice of fabric for fall and winter wear. However, that is thinking outside the box in classic Chanel fashion. Jean Paul Gaultier The Jean Paul Gaultier Fall/Winter show at the Salle Wagram in Paris this season was in a word, iconic. Based on the past signature looks of Gaultiers’ favorite pop stars, “an homage to all the pop stars of the eighties who have influenced fashion and my fashion with their look,” he says, the line still possessed a futuristic air. We saw tributes to greats such as Madonna, Sade, Boy George, David Bowie and Grace Jones. You could see the Grace Jones style in the rigid jackets that showed minimal movement, but maximum style. The Bowie influence was apparent in the bronze and silver, metallic, futuristic leather suits. Another piece, possibly an ode to the era, was a loud silhouette print on a silk dress in black, orange and red. The best, and probably most surprising portion of the show, was the inspired pieces Gaultier derived from his own stint as an artist in the 80’s. Such pieces included skintight crocheted patchwork trousers, long sleeved shirts and high-collared black jackets. John Galliano The John Galliano Fall 2013 show in Paris evoked strength and power through the use of severe architectural design and a dark palette of indigo, navy, black and bursts of fiery red. Designer Bill Gaytten for Galliano explained, “I’m not a soft, romantic person, there are no simpering sex kittens, no women who depend on men for their sense of identity.” Point well taken Gaytten. The Galliano woman this season is a superwoman in her own right, almost intimidatingly so. In creations with silhouettes reminiscent of martial arts attire, we saw wide legged pants, large leather belts and sharp angled coats. Beautiful in design, and lending a pop of color to the collection, was the artistically draped navy blue gown with a splash of red, still powerful in design it had an air of feminity that proved Gaytten might have a soft spot after all. Miu Miu The Miu Miu Fall 2013 collection presentation in Paris, France this season brought life and color to the City of Lights. Reminiscent of vintage comic book heroines, the use of pop art inspired dots and bright colors were fun and whimsical. Mixing patterns was a popular trend on her subway themed runway this season, as we saw polka dotted handkerchiefs paired with striped handbags, and striped tights paired with polka dotted coats, yet it all seemed to work. The palette was mixed as well, bright yellow mingled with navy and red on a long, belted dotted trench and a blush pink coat was paired with red and navy. Models hairstyles were worn with deep parts, and braids tied into tight buns, their makeup, dark and seductive. The silhouettes were bold, yet feminine in their own right, with the use of an embroidered jeweled ribbon cascading down the front of black, wool, large buttoned coat. Cartoony? Maybe. Fabulous? Always. Valentino This season McQueen took us to visit a catholic cathedral; with Valentino we visit the convent. And a fashionable one at that. We were inspired by “calm and serene portraits of women,” Valentino designer Pier Paolo Piccoli exclaimed. “We wanted to catch the same spirit of private sensuality,” he explained, “something very spiritual and poetic—women as new Madonnas.” The execution of such was flawless. The show opened with a prim and proper, scalloped edge, Dutch floral dress with a white embroidered collar lending it school girl charm. Another sweet addition to the collection was the blush pink cashmere sheath dress with a lace skirt and a delicate matching collar. Models wore their hair in demure long braids, and makeup was natural. The palette was comprised of white, soft pinks, black and royal blue, as seen on a matronly long-sleeve gown. The piece de resistance of the collection was the long-sleeved, black, laser cut gown that featured embroidered black crystals, white lace. A piece that took over five hundred hours to create. Bottega Veneta Bottega Veneta’s designer Tomas Maier romanticized wool in his latest collection for the Fall/Winter 2013 presentation in Milan. The opening of the show made us fall in love with classic black all over again. First through a satin belted black coat that featured sculptural ruffles and folds that were soft and feminine. Next through two gorgeous pieces, each equally engaging. A black peplum wool top and pencil skirt, and a little black dress, which Maeir incorporated pleated satin into. Necklines were lux and sat upon the models like delicate flowers. The collection also included ivory wool sheath dresses that were embroidered with abstract prints in bright colored silks. The palette was warm and featured saffron and bright red among the primarily midnight black dominate collection. One of the most mastered looks was a satin blouse, folded asymmetrically to perfection, paired with black cropped trousers. A pairing was romantic and defined the collection as elegant and refined. Dolce & Gabbana Dolce and Gabbana took us to church during their presentation of the houses’ Fall/Winter 2013 collection. A centuries old church that is. Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, inspired by Monreale Cathedral in Sicily, incorporated their artful inspiration into mosaic prints. Crosses and portraits of crosses and saints were in bright colors such as rust, gold and blue. A long black coat was more subdued and made for the perfect fall staple for the D&G woman who is seeking quality and a certain level of sophistication when she layers for the chillier months. The show made a swift turn back into the extravagant after a short jaunt through more wearable tweed and wool outerwear. Dresses, paired with ornate gold and bejeweled crowns, were breathtakingly regal. A black lace dress, falling mid-calf, featured whimsical bell sleeves and floral appliques. The finale featured a cardinal red lace dress paired with red-jeweled ballet flats. DSquared As you wait each season for the next collection from Dan and Dean Caten for DSquared, you know you are guaranteed a collection that is not only inventive and beautiful, but also fun and full of color. For Fall/Winter 2013, the famed brothers did not let us down. Trending this season are inspirations plucked straight from the forties and DSquared traveled back in time as well, only this time they’ve added a flair of jazz. The double-breasted gray suit was tailored to perfection in true Caten fashion and paired with a shocking yellow coat, red silk tie and hunter green felt bowler hat. We also saw a robin’s egg blue high-waist skirt suit paired with flirty, pink slouchy leather gloves. High heels were oddly paired with socks, which took the suits sophistication down a notch, but moving on to eveningwear DSquared rightfully earned our undivided attention back. Trains fell behind models like sparkling streams of fabric on the runway and crystal embellishments were seen on almost every piece of the eveningwear collection. Seen in pewter and champagne satin, and a gorgeous black bustier dress in black lace that was paired with a masculine black coat and bowler hat, the eveningwear portion of the line exuded pure sexuality. Etro The Etro Fall/Winter 2013 show in Milan this season was in a word, psychedelic. Funky prints buzzed in an electric palette of red, orange, yellow and navy. Designer Veronica Etro was inspired by the digital era and the passion for creating looks that were defensive and protective. Not to mistake protective for modesty, the models were covered with high-collared blouses and jackets, while trousers hit at the ankle and layers were plentiful. Save for a more delicate piece in the collection, a remarkable, sparkling, black and yellow print gown with side cutouts. Black geometric designs co-mingle with more intricate, spacey prints on layered trouser, blouse and jacket ensembles that presented severe, uneven layers. Fabrics were also mix and matched. A leather biker jacket was ingeniously paired with a bright orange mohair sweater, and wool, knit and leather were also used together showing that the designer truly utilized all the fall fabrics for the season ahead. Gianfranco Ferre Gianfranco Ferre debuted a strong fall/winter 2013 collection at the Palazzo della Permanente in Milan this season. Designers Federico Piaggi and Stefano Citron used Asian influences as well conceptual and sharp, architectural design in the houses’ pieces. Opening the show was a white satin jacket and trouser combination with large lapels and a top peeking from beneath that appeared to be more of a suggested addition, leaving us to wonder how a woman would wear that without having an unfortunate fashion incident. The sweeping scarf look was repeated, this time on a midnight blue satin top, paired with a front-slit black skirt. However, this time the look appeared more sensible, wearable. The accessories did did give us a preview of what was to come with the obi-styled belts, which dramatically grew in size, with their loops drastic, almost obtrusive as we reached the end of the show in a blush halter gown. The highlight of the show, wasn’t confined to one piece, but instead was the over-all female-power energy that was felt throughout. Though feminine by the choice of fabric and girlish cinched-waists, the strength was shown through the edgy cuts and lines that each piece presented. Gucci The Gucci fall/winter 2013 collection presentation by Frida Giannini felt more like a hot night spent in a Milan nightclub than a traditional fashion show. Loose tailoring and masculine silhouettes opened the show with large, rounded shoulders and high necklines. The show carried a dominatrix vibe throughout the entire collection; leather was the fabric of choice on tall boots, a knee-length skirt, and python turtlenecks that were worn more like body armor or a second skin than wearable tops. Giannini shined through her eveningwear collection that featured, in a palette of cool blues and greens, satin jumpsuits and hourglass shaped dresses. The pieces featured lace mesh bodices and embellishments such as feathers and sequins, dressing up the dark, seductive looks. John Richmond The John Richmond Fall/Winter 2013 collection, presented in Milan this season, was sensible with an air of romance. Showing great wear ability, the line was a cool palette of grey, white, black and blue with sweet prints inspired by fauna and underwater reefs. The show opened with a classic winter piece, a long grey jacket with fur adorned shoulders and grey trousers, accented by a single white line down each leg. A long black trench with thin black leather panels was paired with black boots, on a model carrying an oversized leather bag and it felt more matrix than muliebrity. A true gem was the cropped, black, nip waist blazer with satin sleeves that was worn without anything underneath except for an elaborate necklace. Paired with a reef print trouser it was sexy and possessed an edge. The eveningwear presentation was daring, with models baring much more skin than a traditional eveningwear collection. With dresses hitting high on the upper thigh, the prints were intricate and the dresses shown featured long sleeves or were paired with complimenting furs. The dresses featured metallic embroidery and the white mini was embellished with platinum fringe that lent beautiful movement. Just Cavalli Roberto Cavalli of Just Cavalli wanted his Fall/Winter 2013 line to be overtly wearable. Inspired by the urban woman, he wanted to create easy designs and cuts that any young and vibrant woman would want to wear. With the infusion of color, prints and easy to wear fabrics Cavalli hit his mark. The show opened with a tunic dress, printed with a medieval stain glass, the same print appeared on the matching white, fur-lined parka. A bright orange tiger print sweater, and an ensemble that incorporated a tiger printed backpack on a pleated-skirt clad model gave the familiar notion of back to school, injecting a youthful vibrancy in the collection. Oriental print jumpsuits and tight trousers paired with open toe Cavalli boots were a strong addition to the collection, in their powerful fiery red palette. The Cavalli girl seemed to grow up by the finale, as the house presented a sensual red and black crystal, drop-waist, flapper style dress. Band of Outsiders The Band of Outsiders 2013 Fall/Winter show in New York City was presented as an eclectic mix of bohemian texture, 80's punk and 1940’s silhouettes. Famous singer Billie Holiday, and the game system Atari, were the inspirations behind designer Scott Sternberg's latest creations. The pixelated digital graphic designs made an appearance on a boxy, over-sized, gray and navy cardigan paired with sheer black nylons and patent leather tasseled loafers. An Asteroid game print also appeared on a sleeker, more feminine high-waist dress that accentuated the female curves. While the printed pieces, paired with Manolo zipper-front ankle boots, bordered on tomboy-femininity, an air of masculinity played a role in the 40's inspired garments. Pinstriped shirt-dresses, large wool trenches and boxy-shouldered tops, not to mention the knit turbans, evoked a sense of a dark film noir scene. It was a perfectly orchestrated mash-up of decades past with a flair of genius. Christian Siriano Christian Siriano struck a romantic chord with his New York Fall/Winter 2013 presentation. A sea of opulent gold and midnight black gowns, rich in velvets, sheers and tulle took to the runway in the latest line from the television fashion star. A metallic gold, mermaid style, floor-length gown was classically beautiful and the line spoke to the young sophisticated female. The collection, inspired by “the golden age of Russian opera”, also featured three 50's-esque silhouettes, one with an elaborate gold detailed décolletage, the second, a sheer, glittering bustier with gold sparkle cascading down a black netted ballerina skirt and lastly, an all-gold, provocative long sleeve with a completely sheer top, save for the perfectly placed gold embellishments. The models shoes, a specialty from the Siriano house, were encrusted with brooches and jewels, complimenting the dresses gracefully. The breathtaking showstopper was the transparent, luxurious, floor-length gown bedecked in the same gold embellishments used throughout the collection. This time, paired with an ornate, gold handkerchief worn atop the models head, heightening the emphasis on the Russian theme of the overall show. Falguni & Shane Peacock The Falguni and Shane Peacock Fall/Winter 2013 collection debut in New York was glam meets rock'n'roll, wrapped up in a couture satin bow. We saw a floor length, metallic printed dress in a palette of black, teal and muted pastels that screamed “Wild Child”, which just so happened to be the title for this Fall collection. Other floor length gowns included a champagne and silver sparkling piece, accented with feathers, that was ethereal and feminine, it was paired with a dominatrix styled black leather choker collar and black ankle boots to give it its edge. A black sheer mesh and corseted mermaid style gown featured a black metal breastplate and incorporated indigo, orange and pale green into the Asian inspired print. Knee length dresses were featured in a darker palette including a black mesh and red-feather body-con dress with a deep V-neck in the mesh, evoking feminine sensuality. Models wore black, cat-lined eyes and black nails to further prove that they are in fact wild women on the prowl. Meow! Oscar De La Renta A girl can never go wrong with an Oscar De La Renta gown. Romantic and timeless, his pieces simply emanate beauty. For the houses' Fall/Winter 2013 debut, De La Renta, along with designer John Galliano, opened with designs that were more Avant-garde than traditional. Opening the show were a collection of coats and capes, including a striking teal, black belted coat, paired with a felt hat and slouchy gloves that added an air of sophistication. A charcoal cashmere, hooded cape paired with a black leather trouser is perfect for the chill of autumn air, and was paired with violet slouchy gloves that added a touch of color. The highlight of every De La Renta show are the gowns. Trickling down the runway was a sparkling stream of floor length gowns in an array of colors and fabrics. Neon green velvet, cherry red satin, and a glittering, sheer, champagne-feathered creation displayed lux femininity and charm. Closing the show were two satin ball gowns, in neon pink and indigo, hand embroidered in regal gold bullion displaying the pairings talent for true opulence in design. The Blonds David and Phillipe Blond, the masterminds behind The Blonds put on quite a spectacle at Milk Studios in New York for their 2013 Fall/Winter debut this season. Known for dressing the eclectic, stars such as Lady GaGa for example, The Blonds do weird very well. This line, dubbed “Slasher Sashay” was to be seen as killer-chic. Inspired by horror films such as Psycho and The Shining, they took their inspiration very literally through their choice of prints and fabrics utilized throughout the collection. Sporting voluminous blonde wigs, models eyes were played up in red. Over the top, in a good way, came the all-black, Birds inspired, leather jumpsuit, with large black feather embellishments paired with knee-high black boots. The jewel-encrusted rope mini dress with noose-inspired neck brace made us shiver, as did the ode to the Psycho shower scene; seen in both a clear, PVC short trench splattered in a gradient of red and a printed, black and white mini paired with a bright red faux fur. Finally, a look that cannot go unmentioned was the crème mini dress and fur ensemble featuring a print of Jack Nicholson. Puts a completely new spin on fashion that “Shines”, no? Vera Wang The Vera Wang Fall/Winter 2013 show in New York was romantic and grown-up. Opening with a gloomy palette of charcoal and black, we saw a sleeveless cocoon-styled coat worn with low hanging armholes that enveloped the model, her lips stained a deep wine and her hair loosely tied back off her shoulders. Also in black was a jeweled, bishop-sleeved t-shirt dress over jacquard pants, highlighting that Wang is all about dramatic silhouettes this season. The show happily brightened with its appearance of Asian-inspired, rose prints in a sunny citrus orange and magenta. The designs were more feminine with dresses, origami style skirts and peplum tops dominating. Bandeaus appeared under sheer tops and deep V-neck dresses, employing a layering technique that never felt too heavy. The finale of the show felt very much like classic Vera Wang, a classic that we have come to love. Dietrich Emter Deitrich Emter was all about luxury at the Fall/Winter 2013 presentation of his new line. Shown in a complementing palette of silver, black and electric orange fur was used as hoods, collars and vests on sophisticated pieces that accentuated the female figure while remaining professional. Cropped, iridescent trousers with a faint snakeskin print were paired with a fitted white silk blouse, one of the fur collars wrapped around the models neck in contrasting black alluding to winter wear. A gorgeous orange tailored suit and a charcoal dress with gold button embellishments on the shoulders, also topped with a fur collar and leather gloves, would make perfect options for the office. Lastly, a silvery grey fur vest was paired with bright yellow-cropped trousers, adding vibrancy to the collection. Models wore their hair pinned back, with curls cascading down, and lips were a bright coral. Dimitri The Dimitri Fall 2013 ready-to-wear collection presentation in Berlin was full of energy, color and prints that excited the senses. Inspired by “ice princesses from Siberia” and glaciers, the palette was a cool mix of cobalt, navy white, and shimmering silver. Models wore their hair in buns on the front of their dainty heads, and makeup was neutral. Wild, futuristic prints were seen on leggings paired with fitted sweaters and oversized leather jackets or faux fur coats. A fun, flirty silver raffia dress was flapper inspired and paired with charcoal nylons and bright blue strappy heels. Raffia was seen on skirts as well, including a cobalt blue maxi skirt over the printed leggings. It was paired with a turtleneck and navy blue leather biker jacket evoking a feel that was more warrior princess and less delicate female. The feminine flair was saved for the eveningwear collection where we saw a teal, sheer chiffon, belted gown that we could see sitting beautiful upon a throne. Holy Ghost Velvet was a popular trend seen in shows in Berlin this season, and the Holy Ghost Fall/Winter 2013 runway was no exception. Utilizing the fabric through their collection, it was also brought through in the accessories. We saw a maroon velvet bowler hat and exquisite velvet ankle boots that are sure to be a popular trend worldwide this fall. The show opened strong with a leather jacket draped over the shoulders of a tuxedo-top and bow tie clad model. Her black trousers were embellished with gold zippers, a recurring detail used throughout the line. They were also used on a pair of baggy grey trousers paired with a boyfriend style grey sweater. Comfort and wear ability came through with the entire daywear portion, making it an accessible collection for any woman who likes a no fuss wardrobe that is still stylish and trendy. A black pantsuit, as well as a wool, grey shift dress work well for the professional woman with lines that are still soft and feminine. The interesting show closers were a red velvet body suit paired with black nylons and a red velvet button-down coat and a blue sheer evening gown with a brightly colored floral print, and blue felt hat. The Holy Ghost house definitely shined in their daywear, however, the collection, as a whole was innovative and attention grabbing. Lala Berlin Iranian designer Leyla Piedayesh presented the Lala Berlin collection for Fall/Winter 2013 in the collections namesake city this season. Wanting to create a fresh, cool collection that you could “mix as you like”, her inspiration was drawn from punk rock singer/songwriter Patty Smith and the seventies rock music scene. The colors and patterns all possessed a seventies vibe. A pair of bright orange, knee-high boots stretched upwards towards a colorful, printed micro-mini skirt and oversized crème turtleneck sweater. A pale pink maxi sweater with full-length zipper was paired with thigh high pink and white riding boots and a black hat. Not wanting to exclude their signature caftans, Piedayesh incorporated a southwest print onto a caftan and matching blouse and trouser ensemble. Another print seen was the starry sky print used on a sheer evening gown and a skirt that was paired with a geometric print, chunky knit sweater. The ease of mixing and matching the pieces to create different looks was apparent and we definitely felt the rock and roll influence from start to finish. Lena Hoscheck Lena Hoscheck took us on a romantic walk through a Spanish garden during the presentation of her Fall/Winter 2013 line. Her ready-to-wear daywear collection included an elaborate mix of dresses, pencil skirts, blouses and trousers in a variety of prints. Models wore their hair slicked-back, in long ponytails, and for the eveningwear collection, it was Spanish style up do’s with braids twisted and piled high. Lips were bright red, eyes lined with black liner. The look was sensual and true to the Spanish culture. A green satin blouse with puff sleeves, was paired with tight floral trousers and a red and white, traditional, floral print, puff sleeve blouse was paired with shredded red pants and knee high, red leather tie up boots. Both looks were worn with a jacket tied around the waist, evoking an early nineties vibe. A natural combination of brown and green was seen on a floral skirt suit, paired with ripped panty hose and chunky black boots. It was an, almost out of place, masculine look for the collection that contrasted against the delicate lace skirt and long, lace, cap-sleeve evening gown that closed the show. Overall, it was a beautiful journey through traditional Spain. Leandro Cano There is a first time for everything and Leandro Cano, winner of Stella McCartney’s Designer of Tomorrow, had his first experience debuting a runway show in Berlin for the Fall/Winter 2013 season. Cano came out of the gate strong with silhouettes that were creative, strong, and as he hopes to be, one of a kind. The palette was a dreamy mix of crème, white and garnet as models walked down a runway hazy in fog. The show first opened with its more subdued creations, a white dress with embellished shoulders, followed by an all-white jumpsuit embellished as well, this time with appliques affixed at the arm and shoulder as well as scrolling down the hip. The show was titled “Animas” and was named for a vision of the designers, in which he imagined cosmic creatures wearing avant-garde creations. As the show progressed, we saw the creations in which he was alluding to, including garnet and white jumpsuits featuring outlandish padding that created a wavy silhouette. One of the most talked about pieces was an open weave, belted, knit top, with an exaggerated bulbous hood, paired with a rust-hued pencil skirt. Truly a collection to remember, we are excited to see what he will bring to the table next season. Rena Lange In his final collection for Rena Lange, designer Carsten Feilitz presented a classic line for the minimalist in the houses’ Fall/Winter 2013 presentation in Berlin. Inspired by cubist artists such as Stella, Hartung and Mondrian the line featured sharp lines and abstract geometric patterns. A solid palette of contrasting black and white, splashes of tangerine and tan were welcome additions. A tangerine and black fitted sweater, paired with elegantly tailored black trousers opened the show. Clean and feminine, the silhouettes were inspired. Body conscious, knee-length dresses in color block leather or geometric pattered knit were paired with thigh high or ankle-boots, while floor length evening gowns featuring a softer design and crystal embellishments, or vertical slits, were worn with strappy heels. The collection was a beautiful, clean finish for Feilitz. By Mandi Pimental
If you are looking for a man who is part daredevil bad boy and part swoon-worthy rock star, then look no further than Remington. This charismatic rocker inspires his fans to live like champions, never giving up or backing down. With a new tour and album in the works, this stunt man has no plans of slowing down, even while rockin’ pajamas on a Saturday afternoon. You have been touted as the daredevil musician; let us talk first about your stunts. You have reached some impressive heights through snowboarding, skateboarding, motorcycles and wakeboarding. Do you have a favorite? It's always hard to choose! I'm so ADD. But wheelies are addicting because they're always dangerous. Where did you first fall in love with the adrenaline rush? And how did the idea of incorporating it with music come about? I was born jumping off things, breaking stuff, making something do what it's not supposed to do... Adrenaline is my drug. My father was an athlete and my mom a musician so I did both growing up, but then I got into the airshow scene stunting motorcycles with Circus of the Machines. The pilot asked me to edit his airshow music and I said I would do it for free if he put my music in it. I was selling CDs and merchandise to all the kids. The biggest Airshows draw half a million people and they have big acts play at them. So, I asked myself what if I was both the act on the stage and stunted at the same time. It's never been done. It's just a lifestyle I want to represent. Speaking of your music, your tracks are full of infectious energy! “Light Up The Sky” and “Our World” make me want to dance, and I must admit, I did. Do the stunts inspire the music, or does the track inspire what you’ll do on stage? I incorporate the visual and lifestyle into the music. I love to dance and love to rock out. So I try to write my songs for that and keep everyone pumped. In contrast to the high-energy pieces, you also write more melodic, passionate tracks. “She Will Wait” and “The World Is Burning” are filled with so much emotion. Where did you find your inspiration? Ex-girlfriends and crap. I've been through a lot and [have] grown from it. I truly am a passionate person and not every day in my life has been all roses. I just like to tell it like it is. Are you currently touring, or do you have any plans to tour? What can fans expect from a Remington stage show? I'm bringing the heat! Just like a P!NK show or KISS or Michael Jackson. I want to give them a show. And I am gearing up for something big soon! I'm in the studio right now putting it all together. You have collaborated with sponsors who are incorporating your music and footage to inspire others. Can you tell us a little bit about those relationships? And what do you feel makes someone a “champion”? Champion is a lifestyle. It's what I represent. It's never giving up until your last breath and pushing the limits in your own life. I tell all my fans and friends to put up a "champion" when we take pictures. It just represents greatness. We must touch on your fashion. We have seen you rock both stylish suits and casual hoodies. What is your go-to stage style? I like funky shoes/boots, black tight jeans and a black shirt with color and a jacket! What about on your days off? Pajamas. Or just some jeans, sandals and a v-neck. ;) Do you have a favorite fall trend? And who is your favorite menswear designer? I like beanies and hoodies and my taste is so crazy I couldn't just pick one. What about for the ladies? What do you think is the perfect fall look on a woman? Tight jeans, sexy heels, rocker jacket, and a scarf. Or pajamas. I think I just need to come out with my own pajama line that you can wear out. Haha! Before we go, can you let us know what is up next for you, and where fans can check you out? Just writing new songs in the studio, so expect some new singles! I'm also doing a lot of social media videos on vine and YouTube and want to start touring again. Check me out at remingtonmusic.com Or on vine, Instagram, and Snapchat. - @krazyremi |