Dara Ford: modern yet timeless fashion for women

Designed for women of all ages and offered in sizes 8 – 18 the Dara Ford collection will appeal to women with busy lifestyles and demanding wardrobe needs. The clothes are comfortable and practical without compromising on style or quality and carry their wearer from daytime at the office to night time socialising with friends – true investment pieces that can be worn season after season.

Says the labels designer Dara Stringham: ‘I work very hard to create pieces that I love and which I can see women wearing in their everyday lives. I like playing with subtle details that only reveal themselves at close range and which allow the exquisite fabrics to shine. Comfort and elegance are my natural design instincts, a kind of old-world appreciation for quality and craftsmanship translated into contemporary pieces for the women of today.’

The beautifully designed online store allows shoppers to browse the collection by style, colour or fabric and gives detailed information along with the designer’s notes for each piece. It is easy to navigate and provides the perfect shopping experience for savvy women with busy lives. 

Dara Ford

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Kingfisher Bikini Bombshells : Mid Week Specials

With winter well and truly here, a piping hot picture gallery is just what the doctor ordered. Presenting the best of our bikini bomshells to keep you nice and toasty!

The girls of the Kingfisher calendar hunt pose together in an assortment of bikinis.

Before Katrina Kaif became a super successful Bollywood actress, she was part of the Kingfisher calendar.

Pooja Misra in a pretty pink bikini.

Now we're getting serious - Pooja Misra in a sexy black number.

A beautiful shot of a Kingfisher calendar girl.

Photographer Atul Kasbekar in action, as he shoots a gorgeous bikini clad model.

Arlette Grao - one of the Kingfisher Calendar Girl Hunt 2010 finalist - strikes a hot pose.

Hot pink never fails!

The new Miss Earth in the swim suit round.

Source

Kingfisher Bikini Bombshells : Mid Week Specials

Judy Crowell Launches New Fashion & Accessories Collection On ShopNBC

ShopNBC the premium lifestyle brand in electronic retailing, announced that Judy Crowell, television shopping industry veteran and fashion trend forecaster, has joined the network as the inspiration and designer of the new show series, "Judy Crowell Collection." As part of the network's ShopNBC Anywhere initiative, customers can shop via cable and satellite TV; mobile devices; online.

Judy Crowell brings over 20 years of television experience to ShopNBC. She began her career as a TV correspondent, then as a TV shopping host for QVC and HSN. Ms. Crowell's career led her to fashion hot spots around the world, including Monte Carlo, Basel, Milan, and Hong Kong, where she developed a global sense of style. Ms. Crowell is certified as a trend forecaster from the World Fashion Council.

The Judy Crowell Collection will feature fashion outerwear and accessories for women seeking to update their wardrobe and help create a polished look. Designed to enhance rather than replace a woman's wardrobe, the Judy Crowell Collection also caters to women searching for timeless and affordable accessories. Viewers will be surprised and delighted with the newest trends in handbags, sunglasses, scarves and more, along with Ms. Crowell's advice on where and how to wear each piece.

Judy Crowell's Key Accessories for Holiday 2009:

• Paisley Scarf. Key accessory for the season, the scarf adds instant sophistication to any outfit.
• Crackle Finish Clutch. Add a little ooh la la to last year's little black dress.
• Braid Detail Shopper Handbag. Look pulled together and stay organized with this handy tote that shifts from work to play.

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Ana Ivanovic unveils new adilibria dress for Aussie Open

Ana Ivanovic will make a much welcomed comeback to the tennis tour in January 2010 in a fresh new adlibria Tennis look. The 22-year-old Serbian will step on the southern hemisphere courts in a core yellow, dropped waist dress that has been 18 months in the making.

Ana’s feedback was instrumental in the finished design of this fusion piece with the request for a deeper neckline, close body fit, dropped waist and side pleats skirt detail all fulfilled by the adidas Tennis design team.

The former French Open Champion says, “I love the new dress for SS10. The colours are really bright and refreshing and the skirt pleats add a cute feminine touch. It feels very comfortable and I’m looking forward to wearing it in Australia.”

The adilibria dress is accompanied by a separate bra top and boy short in black to match the dress trimming, while Ana will also sport her trademark adidas visor during her day matches.

Ana’s dress in SS10 is made from 100% recycled PES (polyester) and is part of the adidas sustainable Better Place range making it a must-have piece for all eco-friendly tennis players worldwide. ClimaCool moisture management technology is included in the upper back and neck area to keep Ana’s body at its optimum playing temperature no matter how the sun gets down under.

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Hollywood Studios signs up model Rachele Schank

Models International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hollywood Studios International announces the signing of acclaimed international model Rachele Schank.

Shortly after Rachele's signing, she was hired for Dimitri Zafiriou's runway show at Athens Fashion Week, an editorial for the popular teen magazine PINK WOMAN, a commercial spot for SOFT KINGS COOKIES and a commercial spot for VODAFONE. Each of these commercials runs on every major channel, giving Ms. Schank even more widespread exposure.

Scott Whitfield, Managing Partner of Models International, said, "We are excited that respected model Rachele Schank has been added to our already fantastic roster of talent. Her unique look is widely sought after by photographers, designers and clients alike. Along with the US, Rachele is now one of the hottest commodities on the European and Asian model circuits and has truly become a Superstar."

Models International is a premier boutique modeling agency based in New York and Los Angeles with plans to expand domestically and internationally. The agency represents over 400 models for fashion, commercial, hosting, and endorsement endeavors. The agency's client list includes Vogue, Teen Vogue, Teen Magazine, Allure, Maxim, Cosmopolitan, Modern Salon Magazine, Women's Wear Daily, Rolls Royce, Abercrombie + Fitch, Ralph Lauren, Ed Hardy, Bebe, Rock & Republic, Pottery Barn, Macy's, Fox Racing, Sketchers, Wella, BCBG, Tilly's, Urban Decay, MTV, HBO and many others. 

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TLé Designs featuring on Bella Petite Hour Radio Show

Women’s petite fashion designer Teresa Le, founder of TLe Designs will be the featured guest on The Bella Petite Hour radio show as fashion month continues during November on The Bella Petite Hour. The live radio appearance, hosted by Ann Lauren, will be Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 10 am PST.

TLé will be giving details about what inspired her to move from the corporate world, achieve her MBA, and into establishing her own fashion-forward clothing line designed especially for petite women. She will also be discussing her expertise in the fashion industry and providing insight into her future plans for TLé Designs.

“This is an exciting opportunity to reach thousands of listeners who are petite and to promote the petite fashion industry,” says TLé. “But this goes beyond just fashion. I am trying to change how petites view themselves and how others view them. It’s not only about beauty and fashion but more importantly self-esteem and self-acceptance in what people may consider beautiful and ‘the norm’.”

Bella Petite was founded by petite model Ann Lauren. Featured in over 500 newspapers, radio, and television interviews nationwide, Lauren is considered the foremost expert in petite fashion, modeling and attitudes. 

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Color For Beauty : Black Inspiration

The mysterious, sexy and the sophisticated hue black. A black outfit gives the bold statement, "Observe me but do not interfere".

Black is a color that is often misunderstood. It is even defined as an absence of color. Both positive and negative, it is used for expressing grief, and by youngsters as rebellion. It might appear a little skeptical to think that black is an all time favorite color. But be it a punk, classy, preppy or chic style; black is the color that will make one stand out in a crowd. It is a dark color that absorbs more light, and makes the wearer look even hotter. A silent and concealing shade, black is a mixture of many other colors.

Black is a timeless color and is regarded as the most stylish hue in the world of fashion. A dramatic black outfit gives a thinner appearance to the wearer and is mostly a preferred choice of creative people. In the commercial society, black is considered as a hue representing power and authority. With regards to formal wear, no color is acceptable as black. This hue is considered as the most elegant choice. This silent, and dictating shade s flattering to all skin tones and body types and gives an elegant look.

The Fashion Spotlight:

In the world of fashion, black is used to add a touch of mystery to outfits. It gives a visually slimming effect to clothing. Dark charcoal gray, and dark brown are also used as a substitute for black. Black is a color that matches with every light color. It makes other colors appear brighter. This hue blends well with jewel-toned shades of red, green, blue and white. It offers a conservative look when matched with gray, or light blue.

The upsurge of black as a noticeable color in the fashion segment was the result of creativity of the fashion houses in Paris, and London. The Little Black Dress introduced by Chanel brought a new inspiration to this color. Later, Christain Dior made the black afternoon dress and jacket. During the 90s, wearing a black outfit for a party was considered as a high society fashion in cities like Paris, and London. Black thus became a fashion of high society. Later with the passage of time, the color was adopted as a staple color in any fashionable gathering. 

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References:

1. http://www.nytimes.com/
2. http://www.traditioninaction.org
3. http://www.beautytipshub.com
4. http://womensfashion.suite101.com/
5. http://formaldressesboutique.com

Ferragamo & Swarovski work together to create Pink Collection

Salvatore Ferragamo and CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements in line with their global initiative joint hands to launch the “Pink Collection” of bags, shoes, T-shirt and accessories that pays homage to both brands heritage, and in support of Breast Cancer awareness .

Salvatore Ferragamo Pink Collection includes women’s bags and shoes, sunglasses and t-shirts: a Varina ballerina shoe, a sports shoe, a T-shirt, a tote bag and sunglasses Made with CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements. An iconic Ferragamo sandal with the celebrated cage heel swathed in CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements is also available as a limited edition item.

The limited edition Pink Collection specially created to raise funds for Breast Cancer Awareness globally; is now available at the Salvatore Ferragamo boutique at DLF Emporio, New Delhi and will donate part of the proceeds of all sales to the Ogaan Breast Cancer foundation.

James Ferragamo who was instrumental in the design and launch of this exclusive range of bags, shoes and accessories,recently said “Together with my team we fully support this initiative, all the product offerings are a symbol of collaboration between Salvatore Ferragamo and CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements for this project”.

“We are proud to have formed this creative partnership with a brand as important as Salvatore Ferragamo. It reflects our more than a century long tradition of working with distinguished designers and brands and, with our sparkling CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements, allows us to support a vital health issue, the global fight against breast cancer.” said Sanjay Sharma, Country Head, CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements.

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Bridget Moynahan To Be The Face Of The Garnier Ultra-Lift

Global skincare leader Garnier Nutritioniste is proud to introduce actress Bridget Moynahan as the latest spokesmodel for the brand. Moynahan will appear in print and TV campaigns for the brand's top-selling Ultra-Lift skincare collection, set to debut July 2010. Moynahan joins an impressive roster of Garnier spokesmodels, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Bar Rafaeli and Alana de la Garza.

Moynahan is an ideal partner for Garnier Nutritioniste and embodies its vision of natural beauty. Her flawless skin is the perfect canvas to showcase Garnier's Ultra-Lift products, a collection targeting the anti-aging needs of women in their 30's and 40's. Moynahan's aspirational yet approachable look is the key to her appeal, and reflects Garnier Nutritioniste's core value of healthy beauty. Always poised both on and off the red carpet, Bridget is the ideal Garnier Nutritioniste woman - classic but modern, the ultimate woman-on-the-go.

"We are thrilled to partner with the beautiful Bridget Moynahan," says Maybelline New York-Garnier President David Greenberg. "Her class, grace and accessibility make her a model representative of the Garnier brand. Most importantly, she exhibits a likeable, healthy beauty that speaks to our consumer in such a positive way. We are thrilled to announce that we will be working together."

Moynahan is an all-American girl raised in the East Coast town of Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Before earning international recognition in films and TV, she had a successful modeling career, appearing on the covers of numerous magazines including Glamour, Vogue, Elle and Self. Moynahan has since appeared in a number of major films, such as Serendipity, The Sum of All Fears, The Recruit, I, Robot, and Lord of War. 

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FUEL Presents Vikram Phadnis' F/W and LFW Collection

Sushil and Falguni Jhaveri of FUEL- The Fashion store hosted a wine and cheese evening for their Bangalore friends over a select preview of Vikram Phadnis' Fall winter and LFW'09 collection at the store this evening.

Dia Bhandari was the first one to walk in, on her way to some other social do. Laila Baker came in a while later. Models Nikhitha, Nisha and Nischitha were wearing the signature pieces of Vikram Phadnis' LFW'09 collection. Ritu pandey and Rochna walked in with a friend. Neetu Gupta also came in looking dapper in black. Art Photographer Farah ahmed came in with her friend Emily who was happily clicking away some pictures. Designer Julie Kagti came and checked out the fabulous collection at FUEL. Sarita and Nirmal Mandoth, Rishad and Anna Minocher were the last ones to come and wish Sushil and Falguni.

Bollywood designer Vikram Phadnis created royal magic on the Lakme Fashion Week ramp recently and now he's happily extending that festive look at the multi designer store FUEL at The Hatworks Boulevard, Cunningham Road, Bangalore.

The favourite designer of the stars says he is very excited to dress real people, people who actually make him feel like a star when they wear his clothes.

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CIFW announces the names of the elite designers participating

Celebrating the high spirits of fashion, Chennai International Fashion Week (CIFW) announced the array of swashbuckling designers who will be participating in the upcoming weeklong event in Chennai. Through this internationally renowned pageant, the city will witness a spectacular gathering of 60 fashion models from 10 countries, 1500 outfits, 30 fashion shows @ Hotel Le Royal Meridien between 14th and 20th December ’09.

The event will continuously promote, support and nurture an extraordinary list of designers who have shown on India’s catwalks and made a mark in the industry. Chennai International Fashion Week will also play an instrumental role in encouraging new designers over the years, all of whom have formed the DNA of the fashion & style industry.

Chennai International Fashion Week (CIFW) will also experience heavy weights of celebrated fashion designers like: Pria Kataaria Puri, Vikram Phadnis, Shane & Falguni Peacock, Neeta Lulla, Sidney Sladen, Sanchita, Aslam Khan, Jason & Anshu, Rahul & Gunjan and SatyaPaul.

Super models will sashay the runway in vibrant hues magnificently crafted and designed by the industry experts exclusively for Chennai International Fashion Event. Each designer will present to the crowd their labels wherein some will emphasize on woven silks, some on glittering brocades, and some on Lycra to gel well with the international platform laid.

The fashion week will concentrate on the current and upcoming season and the designers feel the need of such fashion weeks that showcases current trends and not just ape the west!

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Kingfisher Calendar Girl Hunt 2010, Part 2

No more I, me or myself as the contestants are sent out on a treasure hunt in teams at the reality show, 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'. Also at stake are the garments for the next round, so do the girls end up walking without clothes or emerge as true goddesses?

Meryem and Anjali take part in the treasure hunt at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

 

Nidhi and Arlette take part in the treasure hunt at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

Carla walks the ramp in her blue bikini at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

 

Anjali walks the ramp at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

Nidhi and Arlette walk the ramp at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

Himarsha walks the ramp at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

Meryem answers the judges' questions at 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010'.

Finalists of the reality show, 'The Hunt for the Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2010' finalists.


Source: India Syndicate & http://lifestyle.in.msn.com/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=3408317

‘Wear Sunday Best’ with Cassette Tape Neckties

What if a man can show off his persona with a flattering necktie? That too, with a tie made from a recycled audio cassette tape?

Now, looking fashionable and dressing up to the trend is not just womens dome. Men can also emphasize their best qualities and highlight their personality with the right choice of clothing and accessories. Manufacturers adopt novel ideas to keep with the trend, and capture the market as well. Recycling old and worn out objects to create something new and fresh out of them is one among them. This is attractive in a way that it is environmentally friendly, and also haves some creative applications for old items. A new debut in the ecological market is musical neckties made from recycled audio cassette tapes.

Tapes from old audio cassettes are recycled and are used for making neck ties. A little incredible; isnt it? An output of creativity by a New York designer, Julio Cesar, old and unused audio cassette tapes are recycled, and beautiful neckties are made from it. 50% of the materials of these ties are made from old and recorded audio cassette tape and the remaining 50% is blended with color thread.

Recycled cassette tape neckties look decent enough to be worn on a daily basis. Made from beautiful, durable, and audible textile, they can be worn as a formal wear. The wearer becomes a beacon, with a garb in a traditional environment. With the increasing threat of global warming, and a concern for environmentally friendly life style, using these recycled ties will give a satisfaction to the owner about conservation of the environment. 

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References:

1. http://limitedhype.com
2. http://www.ecouterre.com/

Brandix exclusive apparel designs on the catwalk

The latest designs that propel high street fashion in leading international markets will be on display later this month at a rare exposition of current production styles and exclusive in-house designs by Brandix, Sri Lanka’s top apparel exporter.

Billed to be ‘a veritable feast for the eyes,’ the Brandix fashion show will be the opening segment of the Industry Fashion Show that follows the Ethical Fashion Symposium at the Mount Lavinia Hotel on the third day of the Sri Lanka Design Festival 2009 (November 27 – December 6).

As the Main Sponsor of the festival, Brandix will play a key role in showcasing to local and foreign visitors the depth of design and production capabilities that have resulted in the Group becoming a preferred supplier to some of the world’s top apparel labels, as well as the ethical and environmental best practices that underpin its business, Ms. Solani De Silva, Head of Marketing at Brandix Lanka Limited, said.

“Brandix is a committed subscriber to Sri Lanka’s ‘Garments without Guilt’ initiative, and has a world first in eco-friendliness to its credit,” she said. “It is most appropriate therefore that the Brandix show will be one of the highlights of a day dedicated to ethical fashion.”

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We Are Heroes endorses streetwear fashion

Streetwear company Wildchild Nation, LLC announces a new partnership with We Are Heroes, champions of season four of MTV's hit show, "America's Best Dance Crew." 

Wildchild Nation will provide online distribution of We Are Heroes' collection of garments and products as part of Threader, the first online urban clothing marketplace for the dance and entertainment industries.

Crew member Alison Iannucci said, "Winning MTV's 'America's Best Dance Crew' immediately opened the door to lots of opportunities for merchandising, but we immediately sought out Threader, as their reputation of success preceded them. It's been a pleasure working with the Threader team, and we're excited to be able to offer our fans a way to support and represent."

Wildchild Nation co-founder, Luam, commented, "As the first all-female crew to win ABDC, We Are Heroes has a unique opportunity to be able to inspire and positively affect the lives of all their fans. Helping them create streetwear and market it through Threader gives their fans a way to take a tangible piece of the crew home." 

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Marie Lifestyle Collection, creative spirit & love for design

Famed singer, actress, author, and entrepreneur Marie Osmond is embarking upon a new career in the design industry with a line of home decor and fashion products produced by Giftcraft. 

Launching in stores this month, the Marie Lifestyle Collection includes uniquely designed quilted bags and accessories, fashion jewelry, elegant table top and stylish home decor accessories.

"Creative expression has always been respected and treasured in my family. It is with that in mind, that I have poured my creative spirit and love for design and style into this new lifestyle collection," says Marie. "I am thrilled to offer stylish, functional products for women everywhere at a value-oriented price."

Marie was directly involved with the creation, design and development of the line which closely mirrors the aesthetic and values seen in Marie's own style. 

The entire Marie Lifestyle Collection retails will be available for purchase in Hallmark Gold Crown stores and fine boutiques across the US and Canada starting in November. 

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1950's Era Of Rock-N-Roll & Pin-Up Girls Inspire Erika Hendrix

German fashion designer Erika Hendrix is set to debut her Spring/Summer 2010 collection in February 2010. The collection is inspired from the vintage 1950's era of rock-n-roll and pin-up girls. This theme is illustrated throughout the collection by the use of bows & ribbons, round collars, poodle skirts, and rompers, with a distinct motif that cohesively brings every piece together.

"I just love the 1950's style. The clothes, the music, the hair, everything! The cuts were so flattering and also sexy without showing a lot of skin," says the designer. "I think I took more of a risk with this collection with the prints and cuts." The SS 2010 collection mainly uses cotton fabric with pastel colors, leopard and berry prints. The German designer recruited Caroline B. from Most Wanted Models to model in the campaign, and boasts 30 pieces that will range from sizes XS-L.

"I think by having a boutique I see first hand what people want and what looks good on them. So I keep that in mind with every piece I design. I am always inspired by everything. I could be putting out a collection every 2 weeks," Erika states. "I don't look at what other designers are doing. I don't look at what's in style. I do my own thing and get inspired by everyday life." 

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Kate's Collection Brings An Oriental Opulence To Christmas

Kate Moss Topshop launches Christmas 2009 collection. The collection presents an assortment of luxurious yet sophisticated oriental-inspired pieces for day and evening festive wear, along with an exclusive lingerie preview online.

Influences of traditional Chinese and Japanese clothing run through the collection. The Cheongsam dress, normally made in embroidered satin is brought up to date in a gunmetal lurex knit whilst kimono shape dresses in chiffons and silks offer a sensual laid-back style. The sleeves on the 'Geisha Rose' print blouse are voluminous and bell-shaped. Prints of bamboo, flying stalks, lotus flowers and fireworks are flamboyant reflecting the richness of the orient.

Knitwear is given glamorous details, offering comfort and sparkle for winter dressing. A soft grey cashmere tunic is dressed up with a silver beaded obi belt whilst two classic knit crew-neck jumpers in slate grey and navy are spruced up with jewelled shoulder pads stitched to the outside of the garment. A series of lurex-striped shrugs and sequinned knit waistcoats when worn over a casual outfit add instant night-time luxury.

The black rectangular jagged sequin bandeau maxi dress epitomises festive party-wear mixed with Kate's signature rock-n-roll style. Elsewhere a traditional floral beaded long sleeve dress is one-shouldered and the skirt of a strapless mini dress is covered in black mesh petals and gold beads. Snake print leather obi belts wrap around smart dresses and ostrich feathers adorn the sleeves of a shift dress.

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Top Ten Victoria's Secret Finalists

Top Ten Finalists For 

Victoria's Secret's National Search 

Across America For Runway Angel.  

Victoria's Secret has picked 10 females to enter "Angel Bootcamp", and none of these finalist are from New York!  I was a bit shocked to hear such things, NY step it up, we need to be represented on that Angel catwalk.  

The remaining 10 females will go through a series of competitions, where they have to show their skills as a spokesmodel, red carpet and star quality, as well as the photogenic qualities, and of course their charisma while walking the runway in lingerie.  It is the "peoples" choice, so beginning November 9th, vote for your favorite finalist at  VSAllAccess.com or CBS.com, you can also view videos of the finalist competing. 

Three of ten finalists competing to be the next Victoria's Secret Runway Angel, from left, Jamie Lee Darley, 23, Carmel, California; Catharina Lee, 20, Washington, D.C. and Krystina Holbrook, 20, El Dorado Hills, California.

From left, Katelyn Fortes, 18, of Boston; Kylie Bisutti, 19, of Simi Valley; and Raven Ervin, 24, of Birmingham. Three of ten finalists competing to be the next Victoria's Secret Runway Angel.

Two of the finalists competing to be the next Victoria's Secret Runway Angel, Allison Turner, 23, of Cape Girardeau, and Courtney O'Connor, 20, of Raleigh, are interviewed in New York

Source : lifestyle.in.msn.com And musememuse.blogspot.com

Hits, Misses and Plans for the Future at L.A. Fashion Week

After nearly a month of runway shows, events and trade shows, Los Angeles’ fashion community is assessing the sprawling—and occasionally chaotic—mix of events, and show producers are already gearing up for next season of L.A. Fashion Week. 

The tough economy made it especially challenging for many show producers to line up sponsorship. But undeterred, the schedule included more than 60 events happening around town. This season’s lineup included returning events Downtown L.A. Fashion Week, L.A. Fashion Weekend and BOXeight and newcomers L.A. Fashion on Broadway and Rock Fashion Week. There were also many independent events, including Gen Art’s Fresh Faces in Fashion (now part of Rock Fashion Week) and Project Ethos; fund-raisers, including Passion Revealed; and private events featuring Kevan Hall, Corey Lynn Calter and others.

Most events were held in the evenings, leaving many in the industry available to attend the many trade events also scheduled in October, including the Majors Market, Los Angeles Fashion Market, the Los Angeles International Textile Show, Material World & Technology Solutions, GlobalTex and European Rendezvous. 

Los Angeles–based Hall, who showed in the past at IMG’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, opted to show independently. (Although he said he’d consider joining the lineup of another fashion week event if he were asked to participate.) “Since there’s no more participation by IMG and Smashbox, you have to think out of the box and find a venue that is impactful, will showcase your collection in the best possible light and be an exciting venue for the clients,” Hall said. The designer showed his Kevan Hall Signature collection on a dramatic set on the lot of Universal Studios. The event was held in partnership with luxury auto dealer Rusnak Auto Group, which showcased its new cars from Rolls Royce, Porsche and Jaguar. 

Hall, who was in his home state of Michigan earlier in October for Detroit Fashion Week, left for Arizona in early November for Scottsdale Fashion Week. (The designer showed at the Islands of the World Fashion Week in the Bahamas last year.) The back-to-back event schedule left little time for him to attend any other Los Angeles Fashion Week events. Still, he said it’s important for his business to show his collection in Los Angeles.

Source : http://www.apparelnews.net

GapKids by Stella brings stylish looks for holiday season

This holiday seasonGap is bringing the new babyGap and GapKids Holiday collection designed by Stella McCartney to Los Angeles’s fashion-savvy kids with a pop-up store on the famed Robertson Boulevard. The exclusive Stella McCartney for GapKids Pop-Up Store opens its doors through Saturday, Nov. 28.

"We love Stella McCartney's style and brand, as a mother, she understands what children want to wear," said Pam Wallack, president of babyGap, GapKids, and GapMaternity. " Mixing Stell's unique style with the playfulness and versatility of babyGap and GapKids signature designs resulted in an exceptionally fun collection for the holiday season. We couldn't think of a better place to host the only stand-alone shop for the collection than in L.A. where style makers and trendsetters make their mark as a very young age."

Opening today, the Stella McCartney for GapKids Pop-Up Store, situated across from renowned The Ivy, will feature the new Stella McCartney for GapKids collection, designed for girls and boys from newborns and on up to 12-year-olds. The collection features Stella McCartney’s signature touches, including a soft color palette, familiar silhouettes and her unique mix of unexpected pieces. The result – looks that stay true to Stella’s unique vision, reinterpreted with GapKids' playful, child-like charm, keeping fun and practicality at the forefront of the design intent.

For girls, key pieces include an intarsia leopard print sweater dress, velvet blazer, tulle tutu and cashmere hoodie that are sure to delight little girls the world over. The boy’s collection is fun and functional, featuring a mix of monster and superhero graphics and classic pieces like a navy wool peacoat and quilted chambray jacket. For the littlest ones, the collection features organic cotton and cashmere/silk mix styles in simple, indispensible shapes for babyGap.

The launch was celebrated with a kid-friendly event, complete with face painting, balloon animals and more, hosted by Liv Tyler at the Pop-Up store.

Details about the Stella McCartney for GapKids Pop-Up Store:

When: Thursday, November 5, 2009 – Saturday, November 28, 2009.
Monday – Saturday: 10:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: 108 N Robertson Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90048 

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Global Luxury Market Foresees Recovery

A recent survey states that global millionaires have increased to 8.2 million. So, whats the market for luxury products?

''Luxury' is a broader segment than what anyone can define. It includes various products ranging from clothes, footwear, jewellery, watches, leather goods, and many others. Global luxury market is now undergoing rapid transformation. Industry analysts predict the market to grow and reach $2 trillion USD by 2010, of which US alone will constitute 50% of the worldwide market.

Luxury market is currently on the growth trajectory and is seeing a continuous exuberance. Many aspects contribute to the dynamism of the market. Changes in the income level of the people, increasing families with dual income, and transformations in the preferences, and life style of the consumers have attributed to this change. Strong polarizations of the buyers for specific products also influence the market. Individual, personalized, high-touch and a highly customized marketing satisfying the needs of the customers lure them to buy the products.

Luxury Apparels and Designer wears:

Global market for luxury apparels is seeing a growth of 15% per annum. This is higher comparatively over the growth of other apparels. Growth will be fuelled by various countries with growing economies whose consumption for luxury products outweigh salary and luxury options. EU and US will continue to set global trends.

Fashionable designer wears are no longer available only for celebrities. Fashion trends are now global due to the awareness created by media, and globalization, moving beyond class and social status. The segment is benefited by increase in disposable incomes, postponement of marriage, and growing number of individual families with dual income. Even people who are not from the creamer sections of the society will try to have a couple of signature luxury apparels in their wardrobes.

Key Players of the Luxury Segment:

Luxury brand owners are actively gearing up to meet the challenges of the ongoing recession, and the competition for the coming year. Middle East sees good potential for luxury products with a predicted growth rate of 2%. Giorgio Armani and Gucci are the most desirable brands followed by Versace, and Christian Dior. Polo Ralph, Coach, Louis Vuitton, Couture, and Tiffany & Co, are a few more prominent brands in the market. Brands are reassessing their market strategies to take tackle the down turn and come out even stronger than before.

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Basic Beauty, Perfect Form & Simple Shaping for today’s life

Wacoal, the leading intimate apparel brand, announces the debut of three full figure bra styles. The first style arrives in stores November 2009, followed by two additional styles beginning in February 2010. Recognizing the difficult economic times, the new additions are value-priced and value-oriented while still maintaining the characteristics in which Wacoal is renowned for - superior quality, exceptional fit and absolute comfort.

Wacoal has been designing intimate apparel for women of all shapes and sizes and as a market leader they understand the importance of perennial value. Wacoal is known as the best-selling lingerie brand at department stores due to wise shoppers and loyal fans appreciating the quality of Wacoal's styles. The new, value-priced bras - Basic Beauty, Perfect Form and Simple Shaping strengthen this positioning by offering a price point that allows all women to wear Wacoal.

"Ranging in size from 34C to 42G, Wacoal brings fit, comfort and affordable quality to the full-figured, price conscience customer," said Liz Smith, National Fit Expert for Wacoal. "With BasicBeauty, Perfect Form and Simple Shaping, Wacoal maintains their superior quality and value, while offering an affordable alternative."

Basic Beauty: Part nylon and spandex, this full figure underwire features molded two-ply cups with an inner sling for smooth, comfortable support. Additionally, the v-shaped back with built-up camisole straps ensures non-slip and discreet coverage. Colors include black, heather pink, naturally nude and blue haze. Sizes range from 34C to 40G and will be available beginning November 2009.

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Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen to create trend-right fashions for JCP

Steve Madden a leading designer and marketer of fashion footwear and accessories for women, men and children, announced that it has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Dualstar Entertainment Group to design, manufacture, and distribute a collection of footwear and accessories for the Olsenboye brand. 

Olsenboye is a new brand created by Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen that will be distributed exclusively to JCPenney. Merchandise will be available in select JCPenney stores starting in Holiday 2009, with a full launch set for Spring 2010.

"We believe that Olsenboye will be an excellent addition to our growing portfolio of footwear and accessories brands,” said Edward Rosenfeld, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. 

“Steve and his team are very excited about the opportunity to join forces with Ashley and Mary-Kate to create aspirational, trend-right fashions at affordable prices for the JCPenney customer.”

Steve Madden designs and markets fashion-forward footwear and accessories for women, men and children. The shoes and accessories are sold through 88 company-owned, department stores, and apparel, footwear, and accessories specialty stores.

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