Nicholas K Spring/Summer 2013

September 11, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Nicholas K, for several seasons has presented collections that have incorporated loose-fitting unisex clothing, this season Nicholas K expanded their point of view to include garments that were a bit flattering to the feminine silhouette. Inspired by the 70s science fiction cult classic Soylent Green, Nicholas Kunz has developed a collection that reflects the type of clothing needed if the earth’s population had to cope with extreme global warming. Of course this point of view fits in nicely with the brands aesthetic of draped fabrics and easy, breathable loose clothing. Still, Nicholas K found a way in this collection to expand the brand without being too literal about global warming.

Though in Soylent Green the only green left on the earth is found in green plankton, Nicholas K found a way to incorporate a slither of the green trend in this outing. Starting with sand-colored silk ensembles and progressing to steel blue and to some great burnt oranges pieces, ending with a final morsel of pale green, Nicholas K, though staying true to the aesthetic of slouchy, loose-fitting attire, found a way to tailor many of the pieces so that a wider female demographic would be attracted to this particular collection, while still holding on to its tried-and-true fans.

Though the men’s shape and silhouette did not change much from the spring/summer 2012 outing, for men this collection is still fresh, easy and fashion forward.

—William S. Gooch

Nicholas K spring/summer 2013 images courtesy of style.com

Monique Lhuillier Spring/Summer 2013

September 11, 2012 by Leave a Comment

The water motif is popping up in a lot of the spring/summer 2013 collections. But of the designers this season that are looking to aquatic life and water references for inspiration, Monique Lhuillier has adapted this point of interest with a more fashion-forward sensibility than most while staying true to her signature aesthetic.

Known for streamlined silhouettes that accentuate the feminine form, Lhuillier has managed in this outing to forward her signature look by incorporating innovative textile and technologies. Lhuillier referenced the ocean and aquatic life by employing digital printing of fish images, scales and other sea life. Lhuillier also conjured up images of water and marine life by utilizing different silhouettes and shapes that spoke to the ebb and flow of the ocean. Using the peplum aesthetic, tight bodices curved out like ocean waves at the edges while other gowns and cocktail looks that began as simple silhouettes cascaded into undulating water motifs and structured arches.

In the past few seasons, Lhuillier’s collections are heavy on red-carpet gowns, and rightly so since Lhuillier’s celebrity clientele has become a burgeoning part of her business. However, a part from the fantastic array of gowns embellished and overlayed with tulle, beading and sequins, Lhuillier really struck gold with simple cocktail dresses and a few sexy, sculpted leather dresses that rounded out a collection that otherwise would have been a panoply of great gowns.

Monique Lhuillier spring/summer 2013 images courtesy of style.com

Still, what Lhuillier and designers of her ilk know so well how to do is give women lots of options for their wardrobe and present their collections, from choice of music, models and garments in a way that you never want the magic to end.

—William S. Gooch

Misha Nonoo Spring/Summer 2013

September 9, 2012 by 1 Comment

As New York Fashion Week continues to bring out all the stops from emerging designers, Misha Nonoo’s spring/summer 2013 collection was a shining beacon of how to present a relatively new brand in its best light.  With an array of tropical colors, this collection has a relaxed, laidback point of view, set against the backdrop of a peaceful evening in a crumbling elegant Cuban hotel.

The color palette resembled Latin spices evidenced in deep corals and ecru variants, as well as the bold dark blues and simple floral patterns indicative of a relaxed tropical lifestyle. The fabrics were soft and relaxed with a loose silhouette to capture images of a relaxed day under the sun. Hairstyles were Frida Kahlo‒ inspired chignon which helped set the mood.

The models posed against a backdrop that resembled a disheveled manor inspired by the work of photographic artist, Michael Eastman, who was also inspired by old Latin haciendas. “I visited Cuba for the first time 10 years ago … I love it ever since” explained Misha Nonoo. Nonoo was also was inspired by the beauty of the city centers, as well as the Cuban countryside and the carefree visage of local residents.

Image courtesy of fashionreverie.com

This collection will entice consumers to capture a bit of this sensuous paradise in their spring 2013 wardrobe. Misha Nonoo, job well done.

—Dana E. Givens

Deivie Spring/Summer 2013

September 9, 2012 by 4 Comments

Photo courtesy by Joe Laronga

Uh-Oh! Here comes Deivie.

Drawing inspiration from the 2004 movie, Alfie, starring Jude Law and Sienna Miller, designer Christina Mannino incorporates youth quake thought and whimsical attitudes for the Deivie spring/summer 2013 collection.

Classic silhouettes give homage to the 60s when fashion first met rock ‘n’ roll. Mannino knows how to combine simple designs with unique touches such as bulge beading, embroidery and sequins.

The collection speaks to the woman who likes the options of dressing or dressing down her wardrobe.  Deivie understands that every woman has her own personal style which is the focal point to the  many of the  spring/summer garments in this collection.

Photo courtesy by Joe Laronga

From pop art, gun motifs giving tribute to Andy Warhol’s  to peter pan collars, the genius of this collection is in refreshing touches that reference  popular pop art motifs.  Clinching waistlines and wave hemlines give a flirty and fun twist to the 60s and 70s-inspired aesthetic. Think Marcia Brady updated.

Deivie’s color palette drew inspiration from Michele Bernhardt’s book COLORSTROLOGY, which pairs certain colors with specific birthdays. Using Mannino, her beau, and her assistant’s birthdays, the bright chartreuse, orchid smoke hue and blues were electric with a touch of serenity.

Photo courtesy by Joe Laronga

With fabrications that included  sequin mesh, cotton sateen, and silk double georgette, this spring/summer 2013 collection as a luxe point of view that many women can embrace while still feeling sporty and active. The working woman can easily stay comfortable all day and transition from day to evening giving a seemingly endless amount of possibilities of ways to style herself.

Deivie gives the modern woman the ability to express her youthful spirit through fun, colorful ensembles that reference the 60s and 70s but have been updated to fit a modern lifestyle. This is a brand that is sure to catch on. Stay tuned for more!!

–Cory Orlando

Tadashi Shoji Spring/Summer 2013

September 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment

As always with Tadashi Shoji the magic of his collections are in the pristine cut, construction and fabric choice. There are no frills and unusual silhouettes. Simply, Shoji understands that exquisite cut and draping can accentuate a variety of physiques and shapes, which explains his unique ability to appeal to a wide female demographic.

For his spring/summer 2013 collection Shoji looked to the confluence of cultural motifs that can be found along the Modern Silk Road. Instead of infusing his collection with literal reincarnations of indigenous clothing, Shoji ingeniously chose fabrications that are indicative of routes established by Marco Polo and caravans that traversed east to west.

Explorations in Venetian lace reflect the Italian points of interest, while Ikat-printed gazar conjures up images of Kazakhstan, and printed chiffon of the caves of Dunhhuang mirror bygone eras of Asian dynasties. Also, with color palettes ranging from desert sand and paprika to jade, pale iris and China blue Shoji’s spring/summer 2013 collection evoked moods of mystery, exoticism and allure.

Images courtesy of style.com

Shoji always makes sure there is something is his collection for every woman. From the woman who wants a lacy cocktail look to the celebrity who needs an eye catching red-carpet garment, Shoji never leaves a stone unturned.  And his spring/summer 2013 is no exception!!

—William S. Gooch

Kristi Vosbeck: Redefining the ‘Little Black Dress’

August 6, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Think Audrey Hepburn, Lauren Bacall, and Marilyn Monroe.

Emerging designer Kristi Vosbeck takes classic, body-conscious silhouettes and redefines them for the modern woman. Inspired by old Hollywood glamour, she designs for the woman who wants the allure and sensuality of movie sirens reinterpreted with a fashion forward point of view.

Vosbeck uses innovative designs by incorporating stretch satin, lace, and novelty prints. Showing detail in intricate draping, tucking and pleating, the simplest of designs can look so extravagant. Showcasing various ‘little black dresses’, Vosbeck redefines this traditional womenswear must-have and gives it an updated, edgier, more eloquent representation.

Just like any woman’s favorite little black dress, Vosbeck combines versatility, affordability, and simplicity. Her looks are timeless and perfect for the young at heart.

Vosbeck puts the flirty and fun back in the little black dress with her Marilyn dress displaying black taffeta with Grecian draping. The chiffon halter-top with bareback hammered silk ribbon gives this sexy classic a revamp for the 21st century. Drawing inspiration from 1950s glamour, you will notice a trend through the pieces referencing Breakfast at Tiffany’s and How to Marry a Millionaire.

Vosbeck expands upon the 50s glamour motif by adding  figure-forgiving shapes with stretch satin sheath, peek-a-boo slits, detachable cummerbunds, and raised hem line skirts. Her designs use a color palette that make a bold statement by using both neutral and classic colors such as black, purple, red, fuchsia, green, gold, and silver.

From the basic little black dress to evening gowns, Kristi Vosbeck’s vision is perfect for the red carpet; she understands what the modern woman wants to feel on the inside and how to look on the outside.

What sets Vosbeck apart from many designers of her ilk is her attention to detail and her appeal to a wide demographic of female consumers. Vosbeck incorporates a built-in corset to her gowns that not only adds support but so emphasizes the feminine silhouette. The concept of feeling sexy and confident is portrayed clearly through Vosbeck’s aesthetic.

KV Nuit, a collection that launched last season, shows dramatic red carpet looks and satin gowns that can worn for a variety of special occasions.  Vosbeck expands on more than just the little black dress and reconfigures vintage style favorites with a rich interplay of fabrics and prints such as a gold lurex jacquard pattern.

Marilyn Monroe once said, “I am definitely a woman and I enjoy it.” With Kristi Vosbeck’s designs, enjoy the sultry and sexy feeling that recapitulates the essence of old Hollywood glamour. Become a star on the red carpet, wherever you are.

–Cory Orlando

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim: Lisa Blue 2013

July 31, 2012 by 1 Comment

Mercedes-Benz Swimwear Fashion Week-Miami began with the eclectic Lisa Blue, who brought us back to the 1950s with high-waisted bottoms – Think Betty Page and Vargas pinup girls.

The Lisa Blue collection by kicked off Mercedes-Benz Swimwear Fashion Week-Miami at the Raleigh Hotel. Though the Lisa Blue opened with a white monokini with gold trimming, staying true to theme of the brand’s moniker, Australian designer Lisa Burke had the color blue as the predominant color.

By contrast, Other, Burke’s second collection, incorporated cowboy boots, coupled with denim swimsuits (mostly with hints of red for a little extra pop). In Burke’s The Cover Girl collection there were lace embellishments and some girlie, flirty and fun nautical swimsuits, with blue and white stripes.

Images courtesy of Carl Maiorino

One of the standouts of Burke’s collections was an amazing silky robe cover-up which beautifully accented the models’ sun-kissed skin. The Enchantress collection referenced the Mediterranean sunlight beaches evidenced in white and gold swimsuits paired with gold accessories. Karina Smirnoff of Dancing with the Stars danced flamenco in a bright pink, ruffled-top bikini, accompanied by a flamenco-style long skirt about half-way through the show.

Towards the end of the show, a group danced with a paper dragon as if celebrating the Chinese New Year. There was an amazing monokini in white and blue, reflecting two dragons towards the top (almost as if they were looking at each other) then one small dragon addorned the bottom. To everyone’s surprise, for the finale, Lisa Burke walked the runway as the last model wearing a black two-piece with a Chinese inspired headpiece. Lisa Burke has a multitude of gifts when it comes to swimwear and her collection reflected her eclecticism and craftsmanship!!

—Olga Maria Czarkowski

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim: Aqua Di Lara and Qiss Qiss 2013

July 31, 2012 by 1 Comment

During Mercedes-Benz Swimwear Fashion Week’s, Reyhan Sofraci, creative director of Aqua Di Lara, showcased her two latest collections which provided options for women of all ages. The first showcase was at  the Oasis tent and the second showcase was later at the South Beach nightclub and lounge Nikki Beach.

Regarding the collection, Sofraci stated, “I am inspired by my many travels and diverse cultural backgrounds. I love playing with fabrics and colors.” Her affirmation holds true because the highlight of her collection was the combination of nude and skin tones with bold colors, from coral and fuchsia to reds, deep blues, aqua and teal.

Images courtesy of Getty Images

Overall, the pieces from the first showcase were classic and elegant.  Some of the monokinis were fitted so well, they appeared to be “painted on.” The somewhat less daring monokinis contained patterns of vertical crosses or horizontal stripes of varying colors for a little added excitement.

Other pattern combinations exhibited included a mixture of shiny and matte fabrics with beading, along with black and white pieces with touches of nude or animal print (which mostly appeared on monokinis) with incorporated v-shape designs. Towards the end of the show, pieces in the same, v-shaped combinations of nude and bold colors appeared with glitter on top, just the pop needed to end this collection with a bang.

Sofraci second and newest collection, Qiss Qiss, debuted later in the evening. It was a cheeky, fun, flirty line with very bright colors, more daring cuts and styles, resulting in a look that’s more young and laid-back.

Above all, Aqua di Lara collections were striking on the runway with just the right balance between colors and materials; and more importantly, she offers a variety of swimwear fashions for every woman, from high end, classic and elegant to youthful, fun and relaxed styles … there’s something for everyone!

—Olga Maria Czarkowski

 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim: A.Z. Araujo and Naila Swim 2013

July 31, 2012 by 2 Comments

AZ Araujo images courtesy of zimbio.com

Thousands of fashionistas, press and buyers traveled to Miami to peep the 2013 swimwear trends at Mercedes Benz Swim Fashion Week. This year, bright colors continued to rule the runway as models strutted down the catwalk wearing “kinis” with ingenious patterns, bright pastels, neon and animal prints. It wasn’t until the last day, when the NAÏLA COLLECTION and AZ Araujo Official included swimwear for guys in the eye-grabbing colors of pale red, yellow, blue, white and tropical floral designs.

AZ Araujo images courtesy of zimbio.com

The AZ Araujo Collection opened with a full figure model dressed like Carmen Miranda (including her signature, fruit hat!). Not surprising—given its unorthodox opening—the AZ Araujo show was not your run-of-the-mill runway show. AZ Araujo‘s craftsmanship with colorful prints definitely captured the succulent fruits on the Carmen Miranda‒like hat. For men, there were tailored shorts and speedos in every imaginable bright color, as well as looks with a white background and floral prints. Araujo was inspired by the beach, nature and tropical island theme, which also brought to mind Brazilian themes of the Amazon and Carnival! Araujo also encrusted the women’s swimsuit with  Swarovski crystals, adding that extra sparkle and glimmer. To end the show, AZ Araujo appeared with his own “stars,” holding the hand of The Real Housewives of Miami’s Adriana De Moura and Brazilian actress Priscilla Marinho of Globo TV soap opera’s Aquele Beijo.

The finale of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim included four designers. Of the four, Naila focused on men’s swimwear.  Naila showcased stylish men’s swimwear in classic silhouettes in shorts light blue, pink and lime green palette. The woman’s collection included vibrant colors, and the style was very playful with a sexy edge. From bronze monokinis with shiny snake skin patterns, lime greens, blues enhanced with beach cover ups in beige, patterned with leaves in bright colors.

Naila images courtesy of zimbio.com

Naila presented her collection in some interesting pairings. One couple included a mother and son walking the runway hand-in-hand. It was a lovely change of pace to view a collection with something for everyone. The show ended with male and female models walking down the runway as bride and groom. The “groom” was wearing a black tuxedo, with swim shorts piped with white ribbon and the bride wore a cut-out black monokini, with a little veil on her face and white lace fingerless gloves. Perfect for a destination wedding on the beach!

—Olga Maria Czarkowski

 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim: Agua Bendita Swimwear 2013

July 31, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Images courtesy of Carl Maiorino

This year seems like colors were again dominating the runway at Mercedes Benz Swimwear Fashion Week, especially neon colors, which seems to be one of the trends for 2013 swimwear. Agua Bendita designers, Catalina Álvarez and Mariana Hinestroza, were using this collection to pay tribute to our wounded warriors or “Lovely Heroes” (name of this collection).

The Agua Bendita swim and resorts collection was very retro, sensual looking, with clever print patterns and military, nautical and western, wild Indian motifs. An army tee shirt cover-up, came marching down the runway and was removed to reveal a camouflage bikini! Next came an army of little tops with matching pants. The show itself had very classic modern style lines. Instead of stilettos, many cross-vertical monokinis were modeled with suede boots and wedge shoes.

 

Images courtesy of Carl Maiorino

Cowgirls and Indians abounded, first with the painted faces of the “Caciques” (Indian chief warriors) on the suits accessorized with tribal-style bags. For those that love western motifs, there was plenty of it in this collection. Also, Mexican blankets made of bright colors were cleverly mixed in.

Finally, the seafaring models appeared and walked with firm steps, strutting their white jean jackets decorated with glitter, sergeant and nautical patches, medals and padded shoulders with stud detailing accompanied by blue and white navy bags. Last, but not least, there was an amazing unikini with the J-Lo cut, serenaded by reggaeton music mixed with other latin beats (which was not a coincidence since the song was interpreted by J-Lo and Wisin y Yandel)!

Agua Bendita is adept at mixing colors and print. And they should commended for their amazing tribute worthy of our heroes!

‒Olga Maria Czarkowski

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