Eye Candy — Page 79

Beauty Exclusive: Napolean Perdis, the Australian Makeup Guru

January 3, 2013 by admin 2 Comments

Australian makeup expert Napoleon Perdis has been collaborating with Target on a beauty line, NP Set, for the last four years. Bold colors and beauty on the go are two of the Perdis hallmarks when it comes to beauty. Recently, Perdis and Target introduced several new items to the line. Fashion Reverie recently caught up with the Australian makeup king to offer some beauty tips as well as to get his views on beauty trends.

Fashion Reverie: Tell us about what you’re known for in makeup? Why are you such a big fan of color?

Napoleon Perdis: As a working makeup artist, I am personally involved in every product we create. I make sure that every product is infused with skin-supporting ingredients, silken textures and a feel-good message of female empowerment thanks to built-in educators and pro-tips. I believe that makeup tells a story and empowers women to play with color, and that was what inspired me to become a makeup artist and start my own brand.

FR: You must be happy with the current trend towards bright colors in makeup. But are there some dos and don’ts when working with bright, bold colors in makeup?

Napoleon Perdis: I love a bold pop of color on the eye or the lip, and while many women are intimidated by bright colors the trends we’re seeing right now are really easy to wear. I always say try any trend at 20 percent. On the runway the look may be bright blue shadow all around the eye, but in reality a dash of bright liner is all you need. At the fall shows we saw liner that goes beyond the smoky eye or cat eye and incorporates graphic color. In addition to black, my new NP Set Day-to-Night liners ($15 at Target) come in deep blue or copper, which are easy colors to add in to amp up your everyday look.

A bold red or orange lip can flatter anyone if it’s the right shade, but if you’re still not onto the bright lip trend, ease into it with a stain. My NP Set Lip Balms with Benefits ($10 at Target) offer the best of both worlds-they go on sheer but you can layer the color if you want to turn up the volume.

All images courtesy of Napolean Perdis

FR: In your years as a makeup expert, are there some common issues that you see with regards to women and their makeup?

Napoleon Perdis: Not priming may be the most common mistake, followed by not choosing the correct shade of foundation. Another common mistake I run into is women applying foundation all over the face—apply only where needed and keep foundation on the forehead to a minimum, as it can accentuate fine lines! Last but not least is overbronzing—apply your bronzer as a contour to the apples of the cheek, lightly on forehead, cheek and nose … and don’t forget the decolletage!

FR: What’s new about this set of Jet Set Beauty Essentials?

Napoleon Perdis: My fall 2012 NP Set collection is made for the glamour girl on-the-go who wants to live a color-full life. My Gorgeous to Go Palette ($27 at Target) includes 12 eye shadows, three lip glosses and two glowing blushes. It’s lightweight and portable, allowing women to create a variety of looks. The fall collection also includes Lip Balm with Benefits, which are packed with vitamins and shea butter, leaving lips plumped and moisturized with a pop of color. My Day-To-Night Liner Duos are dual ended—the liner side delivers bold color and the glitter side adds a subtle sparkle for maximum impact.

FR: Are there some items that are must-have beauty items for traveling?

Napoleon Perdis: Pack multitasking products that allow you to build your look throughout the day and into the night. Compact palettes like my new NP Set Gorgeous to Go Palette ($27 at Target) can deliver endless options without taking up too much space for girls on the go

FR: I know that a big part of your business is in Australia. What are some differences between Australia and US in terms of the beauty business, available products, and concerns that women have?

Napoleon Perdis: Australian women always want to achieve that fresh face beauty while Americans are inspired by a dash of Hollywood glamour. But I’ve found that each state within Australia and the US have their distinctions. California girls love a flirty pink lipstick, while the ladies of Sydney love a sweep of bronzer.

Napolean Perdis

FR: What’s the number one piece of advice you would offer to women in US when it comes to beauty and makeup?

Napoleon Perdis: Always use primer! Not enough women do. The perks of primer are amazing: skin appears instantly smoother, foundation lasts the distance and hydrates your complexion.

Primer is an NP Set specialty and we’ve got every skin concern covered from redness and dull skin to prominent pores. I’ve recently added two more to the lineup: Calming Pre-Foundation Primer ($29 at Target) to minimize redness and Brightening Pre-Foundation Primer ($29 at Target) to brighten up dull skin. The after-effects are truly amazing-you may find you don’t even need to use foundation.

—Karyn D. Collins

Wednesday Sample Sale

December 19, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Fashion Reverie seeks to keep its loyal readers informed of great samples sales. Just remember, product disappears quickly, so it is important to get there early. Also, most sample sales won’t let you try on garments, so know your size. Happy Shopping!!

Brand: Alice + Olivia Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/18 through 12/22; Tuesday: 9am to 7pm, Wednesday – Thursday: 10am to 8pm, Friday: 10am to 7pm, Friday: 10am to 7pm, Saturday: 10am to 4pm

WHERE: 260 Fifth Avenue, between 28^th and 2th Streets

WHY: Up to 70% off.

Brand: Dannijo Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/19 ONLY (5pm–7pm)

WHERE: Dannijo Showroom: 423 W. 14th Street, #423-3R

WHY: Discounts on Dannijo merchandise. Only Visa and Mastercard accepted; cash Only for purchases under $100.

Brand: Sachin + Babi/ Kimberly Ovitz/ Nili Lotan Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/19–12/22, Wednesday: 9am to 7pm, Thursday: 10am to 8pm, Friday: 9am to 6pm, Saturday: 10am to 7pm

WHERE: 225 5^th Avenue, between 26^th and 27^th Streets

WHY: Up to 80% off spring/summer and fall/winter women’s, men’s, and children’s clothes

—Staff

Editor’s Pick: Camila Alves’ MUXO Bags for the Holidays

December 19, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Beyonce, the Olsen Twins, Jessica Simpson, Kanye West, J-Lo; hmm the list goes on and on. And you have to ask yourself, does the fashion industry need another celebrity brand? Maybe not, but then again, after closer examination some celebrity brands have merit.

Though some fashion pundits canned Kanye West’s two collections, others found his foray into fashion design an interesting, but still viable addition to his market saturation. And say what you may about Jessica Simpson’s looks-for-less, Simpson has found a way to create garments that have a fashion sensibility at price points that consumers can easily afford.

Images courtesy of fashionmodeldirectory.com

Enter Camila Alves. Most of us know Camila because of her matinee idol hubby Matthew McConaughey. But lights, camera, and action are not foreign concepts to this Brazilian model. Photographed by Bruce Webber, David LaChapelle and Nick Knight, Alves has appeared in Elle, Glamour, and Ocean Drive magazines, as well as modeled for Giorgio Armani, Carolina Herrera, Mango, and Christian Dior cosmetics.

With her handbag collection MUXO, Camila Alves is combining her years in fashion with her Brazilian heritage to create a practical handbag line that meets the needs of modern women on the go. ”Because I travel a lot, I found that there weren’t any handbags available that were strong and sexy enough at the same time … So I wanted to create a handbag that fit my lifestyle,” explains Alves.

MUXO’s Ms. Kate $325, Victorian $325, and Black Courtier $640, respectively. Images courtesy of fullpic.com

Just in time for the holidays, Alves has released a limited-edition preview of MUXO’s 2013 collection. “Releasing this limited-edition preview is a small gift to my MUXO fans,” says Camila Alves. “It’s a small sampling of what’s to come in 2013, which will include bags that mix materials, neutrals and vibrant colors, one-of-a-kind vintage brooches that I collected on my travels, and reversible and stylish handbags that transform from day to night. The idea is to offer a product that incorporates many trends creating a timeless piece. When you purchase these pieces, you will know you will use it forever. It’s for the woman who loves to mix and match these elements with everything she has in her wardrobe and everything she has yet to buy!”

Price points for the 2013 collection ranges from $3500 to $245. For more information, go to mymuxo.com.

—William S. Gooch

Wednesday Sample Sale

December 12, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Brand: Diane Von Furstenberg Sample Sale

WHEN: December 11th through 14th: Tuesday: 9am to 6:30pm, Wednesday: 10am to 8pm, Thursday: 10am to 7pm, Friday: 10am to 7pm, Friday: 9am to 3pm

WHERE: 60 5th Avenue (between 28th and 29th St.)

WHY: Up to 70% off DVF merchandise. New stuff added throughout the week.

Brand: James Jeans Sample Sale

WHEN: December 11th through 13th: Tuesday: 9am to 7:30pm, Wednesday: 9:30am to 5:30pm, Thursday: 9:30am to 7:30pm

WHERE: 500 Greenwich Street #202

Brand: Tory Burch Sample Sale

WHEN: December 11th through 16th: Tuesday – Friday: 11am to 7pm, Saturday – Sunday: 10am to 5pm

WHERE: 261 W 36th Street (between 7th & 8th Ave), 2nd Floor

WHY: Discounts on Fall/Winter Tory Burch merchandise including ready to wear, footwear & bags. All sizes available.

—Staff

Spring 2013 Trend Report: High Stepping in High-Fashion Sneakers

December 12, 2012 by admin 3 Comments

Though sleigh bells, stuffed stockings and gifts in shiny wrapping may be on the minds of holiday shoppers, in a just few months retail stores will be packed solid with all types of spring footwear. With that thought in mind there was a noticeable continuing trend on runways during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week that made models a little less tall.

High-fashion sneakers have been featured on the fabulous catwalks of Marc Jacobs and Lanvin for the spring 2013 season. High-end designers Giuseppe Zanotti, Givenchy, Prada, Isabel Marant, and Jeremy Scott also have reinvented this normal causal wear item into cutting-edge, high-end footwear with innovative designs with contrasting themes of glamour and edgy fashion. Alexander McQueen also gives a creative interpretation of the perfect high-end footwear with an exclusive collection collaboration with sneaker giant, Puma.

Givenchy spring 2013 images courtesy of highsnobiery.com

Unlike the plain, standard fare simply used for the gym or the more rugged-edged footwear collections of athletic superstars, for spring 2013 high-fashion designer continue to combine a more glamorous approach with comfort and ease. Expect to see more sneakers with wedged heels, knockout studs, neon bright colors, and lavish high top dipped in metallic shades.

Giuseppe Zanotti spring 2013 images courtesy of WWD.com

Now that that some of the runway amazons have traded in their Jimmy Choos and Blahnik stilettoes for trendy sneaks, will fashion-conscious consumers follow suit? And don’t be left out in the cold by waiting for the pile-up this spring. Remember, the fashion bird is always ahead of the curve.

Mark Jacobs, Alexander McQueen, and Isabel Marant spring 2013 images courtesy of nordstroms.com

All styles can be found in exclusive fashion-forward departments stores like Nordstrom, Barney’s, and Bergdorf Goodman just in time for the holiday season.

–Dana E. Givens

Wednesday Sample Sale

December 5, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Brand: Candela Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/03–12/14 (10am–6pm)

WHERE: 584 Broadway, Suite 1007

WHY: Up to 80% off of apparel and footwear

Brand: Joie, Current/Elliot and Equipment Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/04 through 12/08; Tuesday (9am–7pm), Wed,/Thurs. (10am–8pm), Friday (10am–7pm), Saturday 10am–4pm)

WHERE: 260 Fifth Avenue, Ground Floor, between 28^th and 2th Streets

WHY: 50% to 75% on women’s outerwear, sweaters, silk tops, tees and denim.

Brand: Sarah Jassir Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/04–12/07, 1pm to closing time

WHERE: Angelique Bridal Showroom, 6 East 45^th Street, Suite 1501

WHY: By appointment only. Save up to 70% off of sample gowns. 212.682.0262

—Staff

A Favorite Winter Escape: Leopard Prints

December 5, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

When the winter chill begins to hit Gotham, our natural tendency is to begin not only bundling up, but also hibernating. And with thoughts of hibernating, some of us also begin, if we’re lucky, planning our winter escapes (on which our minds rest until we’re off on the runway or it’s safe to pack away the woolens). For this reason, leopard prints have always been a favorite for the wintry months.

Leopard prints on fur (and faux-fur) and accessories, when done right, is a classic way to add animal magnetism while maintaining fashion-forward sophistication, during the season when showing “skin” in the great outdoors could mean risking a visit to the hospital with pneumonia. When we would rather throw on a robe and comforter than a parka, leopard-prints can somehow rouse up a bit of excitement and audacity to venture on that first date or holiday party. Perhaps through association, as soon as we put on that leopard print, there is a rush of adrenaline, danger—an allusion to or illusion of something wild and hot.

As with prints in general, the key with leopard prints is not overkill. Leopard can be most alluring, as part of an outfit, when it sneaks upon us subtly, then takes us prey. Here are some exquisite examples:

JustCavalli winter 2012 image courtesy of justcavalli.robertocavalli.com

In fashion, animal prints have become almost synonymous with Roberto Cavalli. In his JustCavalli Collection, Cavalli pairs a leopard-printed fur bolero with fox trim with red garments of different textures. The leopard print pops against the red, making the red ever more daring.

JustCavalli winter 2012 image courtesy of justcavalli.robertocavalli.com

In the winter 2012 JustCavalli Collection, Robert Cavalli goes for bold, large leopard prints on a long, slim knit top with contrasting black inner sleeves, and pairs it with a full, rich, black, flowing skirt to create a youthful, yet sophisticated look.

Ruched and clasped at the waist, this hybrid leopard-zebra form-fitting dress by Roberto Cavalli is a killer.

Roberto Cavalli Short Jersey Dress, $876

This charmeuse, ruffled, asymmetric dress by Italian designer Giambattista Valli is a softer, yet still exotic take. Flowing and abundant ruffles become cinched at the waist, which drops into an elegant pencil skirt.

Giambattista Valli Leopard-Print Charmeuse Dress, $2995

While we may be daydreaming of that exotic vacation, leopard prints can also work in the office or that first dinner with the future in-laws. This snow- leopard print on Yves Saint Laurent silk tie-neck blouse creates subtle texture and refined intrigue.

Yves Saint Laurent Leopard-Print Tie-Neck Blouse, $1750. Image courtesy of neimanmarcus.com

With exquisite pleating, this shimmery J. Mendel gown can turn a maiden into a golden goddess on the red carpet or at a holiday ball. The subtly contrasting shades on the leopard print blends into the pleats, never distracting from the intricate construction.

J. Mendel Leopard Satin Devore Gown, $4490

This woven silk velvet coat by Chado Ralph Rucci is sure to make a grand entrance anywhere. The only problem is … taking it off.

Chado Ralph Rucci winter 2012 image courtesy of chadoralphrucci.net

—Jeanine Jeo Hi-Kim

Fashion Reverie’s Designer Holiday Gift Guide

November 30, 2012 by admin 1 Comment

The holiday season is a time filled with decadent desserts and glamorous fashion. Shoppers are now trickling into elaborately decorated stores, in pursuit of the perfect gift. Fashion Reverie is here to lend you a helping hand and make your holiday shopping a little less stressful by providing you with this season’s “haute” gifts ideas.

For Her

Whether walking the fashionable streets of New York or having dinner in Paris, nothing says elegance quite like Lanvin leather gloves. The sophisticated leather lambskin gloves are scrunched to the elbow, lined in silk and detailed with tiny logo studs, making it the perfect winter accessory.

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

Price point: $1,175.00

Holiday Special: $704.00

Sold exclusively at Nordstrom

An anticipated fashion trend for 2013 is exotic print accessories, so give the gift of style this season with a Prada Pitone Lucido Python Doc Bag. Crafted in Italy, this beautiful Python bag is structured in a top-handle silhouette with a metal logo detail.

Image courtesy of saksfifthavenue.com

Price Point: $4100.00

Holiday Special: $2870.00

Sold exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue

Although they say “diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” women also love beautifully crafted jewelry. A major trend for winter is unique statement necklaces. Select this stunning antique gold-tone curb chain necklace with strass crystal and wood accent pieces from Givenchy.

Price Point: $2,040

Image courtesy of barneys.com

Holiday Special: $799

Sold exclusively at Barney’s New York

For Him and Her

Are you looking for a special gift that’s both exotic and beautiful? Agabhumi, the Best of Bali, is not just a store, it’s a story. The owners hand select and design products from the exotic island of Bali, Indonesia. Whether you desire a great leather bag or an intricately detailed bracelet, Agabhumi has something unique for men and women.

Images courtesy of Sprouse Marketing

Twisty weave silver bracelet

Price Point: $228

For Him

There is no denying that women love to see a man wearing an impeccably tailored suit and polished dress shoes. Add a dose of versatility to his wardrobe with a pair of Prada Spazzolato Embroidered Lace-Up shoes. The Italian creations have a 3D appliqué detail and an exaggerated sole.

Image courtesy of saksfifthavenue.com

Price Point: $1250.00

Holiday Special: $875.00

Sold exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue

A great gift for the bi-coastal businessman is a DIESEL ‘Dive In’ Duffel Bag. This spacious carry on bag has a waterproof construction with a sturdy storm flap and cool leather trim. With enough exterior zip pockets to hold all of his necessities, this is a great holiday gift for a jaw dropping price!

Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

Price Point: $270.00

Holiday Special: $180.90

Sold exclusively at Nordstrom

“Check please!” This exquisite black alligator breast pocket wallet is the perfect gift for the Wall Street Tycoon. The genuine alligator breast pocket wallet features eight card slots, three bill pockets and an organizational flap.

Image courtesy of barneys.com

Price Point: $1400.00

Holiday Special: $1100.00

Sold exclusively at Barney’s New York

—Chandia Brennen

Editor’s Pick: Intimate Apparel Holiday Guide

November 29, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

If you’re shopping for the ideal holiday gift for that special lady in your life, your loved one might love something that is usually reserved for revelry behind closed doors. You know what I’m talking about—lingerie.

It is no secret that women have a special fascination with skimpy undergarments, whether the lingerie is provocative and sexy or elegant and classy. Since the task of finding the perfect lingerie gift can be daunting, Fashion Reverie has scouted out some of the best lingerie from top designers. Here are some top picks for the perfect lingerie gift this season.

Chantelle

If you’re looking for something elegant that conjures up images of luxurious opulence, French lingerie designer, Chantelle has a beautiful set that is the perfect match for that woman who loves to luxuriate in opulence and refinement. The Chantelle “Paris Paris” set features beautiful lace embroidery and is ideal for a romantic evening with your significant other.

Stella McCartney

If that special someone loves product from high-end designers and you have deep pockets, Stella McCartney’s intimates might fit the bill. McCartney’s Intimates collection features some gorgeous pieces with a flirty edge, which could be an ideal match for the woman who is not afraid to show her flirty side. The “Selma Dancing Chemise” brings vintage flare with modern twist with floral lace against a gorgeous black silk.

Jenny Packham

Another lavish designer lingerie gift idea comes courtesy of designer Jenny Packham Intimates collection. Her pieces features beautifully crafted chemises that are a wonderful addition to any women’s closet. Packham’s “Open Front Babydoll” fuses romance, high fashion, and stunning lingerie all together in one lovely piece.

Bordelle

For the woman who is willing to test the limits of her sexuality, Bordelle’s provocative approach to lingerie is a must-have. The “Velvet Odile” set is perfect for the naughty girl at heart. The set features the black velvet adorned with small contrasting red bows. This collection will bring out the seductress in any woman.

Passionata

For the budget conscious shopper, Passionata offers more affordable options with matching sets that come under $100. Its flirty “Kiss Me Demi Bra” offers comfort for your bosom with a stylish flare. You can mix and/or match the “Kiss Me Demi Bra” with “Kiss Me Shorty” or “Tanga.” If you’re looking for something a little sexier, there is “Kiss Me Bustier” that will be sure to make her happy.

All these looks and your other intimates needs, are available at the lingerie boutique, Journelle.

—Dana E. Givens

Wednesday Sample Sale

November 29, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Fashion Reverie seeks to keep its loyal readers informed of great samples sales. Just remember, product disappears quickly, so it is important to get there early. Also, some sample sales won’t let you try on garments, so know your size. Happy Shopping!!

Brand: J. Crew Sample Sale

WHEN: 10/27 through 12/2; Tuesday–Saturday (10am–8pm), Sunday(12pm–6pm)

WHERE: 260 Fifth Avenue (28/29)

WHY: Enjoy savings of up to 60% of retail

Brand: John Bartlett Sandy Relief Sale

WHEN: Through 11/31 (10am–6pm)

WHERE: Only at johnbartlettny.com

WHY: Discounts on select hats, select women and men tank tops, men’s swimwear, organic cotton totes and signature dog tees. Twenty percent of every sale goes to the Mayor’s fund to help Sandy relief victims.