Glam Media Network Blog Posts for - Designers

Rebecca Minkoff Fall 2012

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:08:00

When & where: Friday, February 10 at 3 p.m., the Theatre, Lincoln Center Runway recap: There are designers who feel the need to make a Big Statement about fashion every season, and then there are designers like Rebecca Minkoff who just want to give their loyal clientele some good clothes to wear. So her collection didn't entirely reinvent the wheel, but I'm okay with that, because there was so much good stuff coming down the runway: bright red, orange, yellow, blue, and purple pants and dresses, generously shaped coats (some with sequined sleeves), and a printed maxi shirtdress that I absolutely must have. (Finding oneself shopping from the runway is almost always a good thing.) And in case you were wondering, yes, the bags and shoes look stellar as well, with brightly colored booties and interesting new treatments for her ever-popular Morning After Bag. Bonus points: Rapper Theophilus London performed during the show and cavorted with the models, reminding us that fashion doesn't always have to be so serious. Where to buy: Click here for store locations.

Rebecca Taylor Fall 2012

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:44:00

When & where: Friday, February 11 at 2 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center Runway recap: In the growing world of contemporary fashion, Rebecca Taylor has been around for a while, and with good reasonshe consistently delivers pretty yet cool, wearable clothes with a slight '70s bohemian edge. So I was pleased to see her go a bit darker for fallin color palette and in tonewith a grungy yet glamorous collection of great-looking coats, quilted skirts, luxe velvet sweatshirts, and wispy chiffon dresses, many layered over leggings with a sequined racing stripe. It was a risk, but it worked, due in large part to the mix of rich-looking textures. And, hey, who doesn't love sparkle? Bonus points: Layering is something a lot of women struggle with, but Taylor made it look effortless and thus her head-to-toe looks should be an easy selldown to the furry, buckled boots paired with many of the ensembles. Where to buy: Click here for store locations.

Have You Tried a BB Cream?

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:07:00

Was I the last person to learn about these BB creams? Up to a few months ago, I had never seen one before, and then, all of a sudden, bam! BB creams everywhere!What theses creams are trying to be (or promising to be) is an all-in-one skin care regimen, with one tube packing SPF, moisturizer, some color and a treatment! I'm sold! Only one product to do everything? A dream come true!I have yet to try one of them, but with so many BB creams on the market, I'm sure I'll find something. On my radar right now the Boscia B.B. Cream:I've already blogged about it, but since then I've also been reading a lot of reviews on it, and it definitely looks like a cream worth trying.People mostly say that it's a light weight moisturizer, with a tint, that leaves their skin firmer and glowing. Nice. What's not to like about that?Boscia's description: The gentle botanical formula creates a lustrous, flawless finish as it hydrates, firms, and soothes the skin. It helps to diminish the appearance of pores, fine lines, and uneven skintone while providing long-wearing, natural coverage that conceals imperfections. Comes in a self-adjusting, universal shade that warms to complement most skin tones for sheer, flawless coverage.For $38 this one is on my must-buy list!

ASCII Heart Necklace

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:30:07

My friend Becky Stern's famous ASCII heart necklace ($130) is the perfect way to type out your love this Valentine's Day. This geeky pendant is made in sterling silver in NYC. <3! :)

Katie Gallagher Fall 2012

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:48:00

When & where: Thursday, February 9 at 11 a.m., The Standard Hotel Runway recap: Western Pennsylvania-born Katie Gallagher's show was themed "Silent Soil." The runway was adorned by giant faux industrial beams and covered on top by black sand. Stark models representing nomadic women slowly slinked across the runway in their chunky heels (reminiscent of the experiential creepazoid show Sleep No More). Translucent, textured, gritty fabrics made even the most innocent cut of dress look like it rose from a mausoleum. Hair matched the theme, pinned up in complex swirls and matted teases. All of the models' nails were fully outlined in gold - an interesting attention to detail.Standout look: Two overwhelmingly white numbers amidst endless stretches of dark olives, black, and grey (see photo above). Bonus points: Eery stitched-together tights/leggings that accentuated the dresses (also designed by Katie).Where to buy: Shopbop.com

Fall 2012 quickies: Obakki and Kaelen

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:21:00

Fashion Week officially started today, but a few renegades tend to sneak onto the schedule a few days early, which I like. It's a nice way to ease into the craziness, and these early shows are often pretty low key (complete with champagne). Obakki is a Canadian contemporary line with a very global feel, but that translates into very wearable piecesflattering printed silk draped tops for day, sexy-snug party dresses for nightfinished with interesting prints and textures. Not to mention the best-looking leather leggings I've seen in awhile. Kaelen has graduated to the tents, and for her first Lincoln Center presentation, she stayed true to her minimalist aesthetic with pure, tailored shapes; however for this outing, she stepped up her game with more luxe fabrics like liquid-looking metallic leather and even sexy black lace. I found the solid and colorblocked looks to be more refined than the wallpaper-like prints in the beginning, but it's always interesting to see how designers can push their own limits.

Tadashi Shoji Fall 2012

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:54:00

When & where: Thursday, February 9 at 2 p.m., the Stage, Lincoln Center Runway recap: The show notes for Tadashi Shoji noted that his fall collection was inspired by the golden age of Shanghai, however with so many soign evening frocks in luxurious washed velvet, ethereal Chantilly lace, and embroidered silk tulle, I immediately thought of Lady Mary Grantham, the heroine (of sorts) of PBS's Downton Abbey, currently my favorite show on TV, hands down. The dropped-waist silhouettes and demurely sleeved styles would be perfect for a post-dinner discussion of future heirs or misbehaving servants. As always, Tadashi's bright, rich colors were in full effect; the silhouettes, looser and with more elongated proportions, were new but are still certain to flatter a wide range of body typesthere's a reason actresses like Octavia Spencer turn to Tadashi for their red-carpet looks. Perhaps she'll wear one of these to the Oscars in a few weeks. Bonus points: While at most shows one gets pounded with electronic or rock music, Tadashi's selection was much more mellow, starting with the titular James Bond song "You Only Live Twice," coincidentally, the second time I heard a Nancy Sinatra song today (Nicholas K opened with "Bang Bang"). Where to buy: Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's.

Backstage at Katie Gallagher with Cesar Ramirez

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:34:00

Thanks to renown hairstylist Cesar Ramirez (pictured above), Cheryl Shops can bring to you a peek backstage at Katie Gallagher's show today. A hallway in The Standard Hotel was converted into a hair salon jammed from wall to wall with bodies. I was surprised to see such focus on nail preparation, but it made sense once I learned that the color was custom mixed exclusively for this show. Enjoy the inside look!Cesar in the foreground. This room was a nightmare to navigate, but to these professionals it is almost routine. Hairstylist with an awesome style of his own!Katie Gallagher hangs back for a moment, one step away from the chaos.Painting nails for the models.Another shot of the wall-to-wall hairdressers.

Nicholas K Fall 2012

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:24:00

When & where: Thursday, February 9 at 9 a.m., the Studio, Lincoln Center Runway recap: Nicholas K is typically the first official show of Fashion Week, and it tends to get me really excited for the season, because while the brand has a steady vocabulary of wearable pieceslayered leather jackets, jersey tops, and slouchy pants tend to show up repeatedlyI like to see how they're interpreted each season. For fall, they took on a distinct Southwestern vibe, which was a fresh take on Nicholas K's typically urban aesthetic. This meant lots of fringe, covetable leather halter vests, tailored jackets, and blanket-like wraps. Designers Nicholas and Christopher Kunz stayed true to their city-slicker roots with a dark, primarily gray and black palette, but the occasional bits of teal and rust hinted at the desert theme. All in all it was a cool, not corny, take on the wild, wild west. Bonus points: The accessory styling in this show deserves mad props for both setting the mood and being really, really cool. Think felted cowboy hats, rugged over-the-knee boots, and turtle-shell medallion necklaces from Jewelry by Matt. For the guys, Vintage Shoe Company made exclusive styles for the show. Where to buy: Visit nicholask.com for stores.

Nicholas Kirkwood Springs to Life

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:15:43

The weather outside couldn’t get any drearier, but Nicholas Kirkwood’s spring line instantly breathed some life into this shoe blogger’s life. The spring 2012 footwear collection is said to be inspired by florals and tropics from Kirkwood’s trip to Bali. While this is certainly a 180 degrees departure from his sexy, fierce style of past collections and collaborations, these botanical beauties are pieces I’d love to see growing in my closet. Left: Nicholas Kirkwood Leaf Pump Preorder for $925 at Nordstroms Right: Nicholas Kirkwood Botanical Pump Preorder for $720 at Nordstroms Authentic Shops: Designer Shoes at Zappos.com Saks Fifth Avenue

Kris Nations Jewelry: 2012 Collection Inspired by the American Southwest

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:59:46

Kris Nations' new 2012 Trend Collection is inspired by the art and architecture of the American Southwest. which mixes Art Deco style from the 1920s and 30's with the vibrant colors and decorative motifs of Navajo textiles and Zuni pottery. I love the burst of color that these pieces can bring to an entire outfit. Her pieces are the perfect Valentine's Day gifts too! To see more, visit kristnations.com.

United Fashion for Peace makes a call for sustainable fashion at the 2012 Triennial in Burkina Faso ...

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:43:21

United Fashion for Peace will join the 2012 Triennial to be hosted at Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The event in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the FAWE ( Forum for African Women Educationalists ) is organized and sponsored by ADEA ( Association for the Development of Education in Africa.)

Celebrate Valentine's Day with Hello! Lucky Cards

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:26:14

Valentine's Day is a great way to send a love note not only to your honey, but also to your BFF, your parents, and friends who now live far away but are still dear to your heart. I took a little visit to the Hello! Lucky studio recently and got a preview of their new Year of Love box set. It features 12 letterpress cards in an array of beautiful designs. The box set will be available soon this week, but you can purchase individual cards you like from the set or others in their greeting cards category. There are also some fun all occasion card kits for sale too. Visit the new Hello! Lucky blog as well as their prescence on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Disclaimer: Year of Love box set courtesy of Hello! Lucky.

Sample Sale of the Week: Daryl K

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:00:00

When I first moved to NYC in 1999 (yikes, I'm old!), Daryl K's store on East 7th Street was the coolest. She made the best pants and drapey tops, a combination that every downtown designer has since knocked off ad infinitum, but Daryl K still does it the best. So with her sample sale, going on now, you can go straight to the source. Online and in store through 2/10; 21 Bond Street (Bowery & Lafayette Sts.).

TheFind Guest Post: A First Sneak Peek at Marni for H&M!

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:50:00

Following their fanciful fruit-printed Versace resort wear (that swiftly sold out) and the deliciously-promoted David Beckham "bodywear" collection, H&M continues their full-steam-ahead approach by rolling out yet another designer collaboration for early 2012 - Marni for H&M. While the collection was first announced back in November, it wasn't until very recently that we avid designer-for-less fans actually got a glimpse at what the capsule collection had to offer.... and while it's certainly only a teaser (and a leaked one, at that!) we're by no means disappointed! Earlier reports hinted that Marni designer Consuelo Castiglioni would be focusing on classic Marni designs featuring signature prints - bringing us fans a true designer-look-for-less feel that's recognizable but not dumbed down. And based on this first look-see, I'm loving the moody-yet-lively vibe of the pieces and the ad campaign itself. Our appetites have only been whetted for more jewel tones, texture, and gorgeous prints... and of course, for the upcoming video campaign directed by Sofia Coppola! What do you think - are you intrigued by what lies ahead from Marni and H&M? - Alexandra Gambardella Content provided by TheFind in partnership with Cheryl Shops.

Secrets of Stylists: Exclusive Interview with Sasha Charnin Morrison + Givaway

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:47:13

Fashion industry veteran Sasha Charnin Morrison gives you a glimpse inside the world of fashion and stylists with her amazing book, Secrets of Stylists: An Insider's Guide to Styling the Stars (published by Chronicle Books). As the current fashion director at US Weekly, Morrison has over 20 years experience working in the biz for such publications as Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Allure, Vanity Fair, and more. She has her finger on the pulse of trends and celebrity fashion, all with an amazing sense of humor. She loves a very high heel and if you follow her on twitter or tumblr, you'll see the many nuggets of fashion eye candy she'll share each day. What I love about Secrets of Stylists is that it goes deeper into what it takes to be a stylist. As an addict to the Bravo fashion stylist reality TV shows of Rachel Zoe and Brad Goreski, this book is a godsend. From the nitty gritty details of inventory to the drool-worthy trays of high-end jewelry and racks of gowns, Morrison gives you a complete in-depth look into this glamourous as well as tough as nails world. Even if you aren't looking for a career in fashion styling, the book gives you plenty of tips and advice on how to carve out your own personal style. I love, love, love all the photos of celebrities but what I love the most is the detailed photos she includes featuring sketches, supplies, array of outfits, and scribbled detailed notes a true behind the scenes peek at this fabulous world. Book Giveaway Just in time for fashion week! Two lucky Coquette readers will win a copy of Secrets of Stylists! Just leave a comment to this post. The giveaway ends this Friday, February 10th at 5pm PST. Good luck! I also got a chance to talk to Sasha Charnin Morrison and ask her some very important fashion questions. Click for the interview after the jump!Natalie: What are a few of your favorite styling tips that every woman should adhere to when dressing? Sasha: Fit is key. The clothing no matter what needs to fit you. Trends are fun but if it looks bad or "my ass looks fat" you are your best critic. You are probably right. Go with your instincts. Too tight? Dont buy it. Get your right size. Clothing sitting around and not being worn because you were going to lose weight to fit it-is expensive and useless. Theres so much you feel good about giving away. So, nip it right away. Get yourself to a great tailor if the shoulders are too big or the cuff of a jacket or pants are too long. Do not get sucked into dressing in whats not you or comfortable. I dont mean wearing "cozy" sloppy sweats. I mean dont go with a sharp tailored jacket that Rihanna wore and looks wrong on you. And really really educated yourself in buying accessories to change and update looks. Look online for tips. Make Google your best friend: How do you tie a scarf? How can I wear a leopard bootie? You can search all of this alone and then go out and try it. Natalie: Whenever I get my US Weekly in the mail, I always love eyeing all the great fashion. What are some of your favorite trends right now? Sasha: I will always love an olive parka and now with a fur scarf or collar or cuff. I love that always. I like these jersey maxi dresses from Rachel Pally and Wilt. And I love this fleece cocoon coat I own from Norma kamali. Motorcycle boots-either plain black or embellished. And really large sunglasses to hide my bags and an oversized or jumbo Chanel Classic bag. Natalie: How do you decided what celebrity or trend to feature in the red carpet opening spread in the magazine? Sasha: We really want the Red Carpet which usually opens the magazine to be truly a Red Carpet, aspirational/inspirational spread of the most stunning looks from the week. Very dressed up and beautiful at all times. It all needs to feel very V. I. P. The trends are pulled from street wear that celebrities wear, looks we think as a department are very strong for a season or useful-like the best underpinnings-slimmers that the stars wear...and looks for less. Hi/low. How everyone likes to mix it up. Natalie: What are the items from your closet that you cannot live without? Sasha: Azzedine Alaia hiking boots, Norma Kamali sweatshirt cocoon coat, Jersey tops, skirts and dresses from Rachel Pally and Wilt, Gap legging jeans in grey, a big, black knit eternity scarf from Gap, oversized sunglasses from Prada or Grey Ant and my 5000 bags. Natalie: Do you have advice for how a stylish gal can consistently dress up for an evening out on a budget? Sasha: Think about a look you want. Scan H&M, Forever21, Zara, Express, ASOS. All of these sites are reproducing looks for less and they suggest in little boxes what to pair with those dresses. But also plan how many parties you have and see how many looks youre going to need. What can you get away with wearing more than once. If you have one black dress, dress that up and down with different accessories, shawls, faux furs, cardigans. And switch the earrings to necklaces. You can always carry out the same evening bag. Natalie: Now that your book, Secrets of the Stylists is out, what are some of your projects you are working on now for the future? Sasha: I would love to possibly build on the Secrets concept, as well as writing another book involving inspiration. I like this book writing. :) I also am trying to learn as much as I can about digital media and building up my Twitter base as well as my tumblr sites. I have two: Casa De Sasha and Secrets of Stylists. The stylists tumblr is getting a few variations of things that were supposed to be in the book, that didnt make it and really amazing pictures of icons. I need to know about all of this stuff because I have boys who are 9 and theyre very computer savvy so I like keeping up with them. They teach me so much. They are my future!:) Read more about Sasha Charnin Morrison and her mom advice on Coquette Maman!

H. Bloom Valentine's Day Contest

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:04:00

H.Bloom is launching a contest called "Give Love That Lasts" that is live on Facebook.H.Bloom believes in celebrating your loved ones all year long. Four couples will win a yearlong luxury flower subscription from H.Bloom delivered every other week to help celebrate their love all year round. Nominations close at noon on February 14th EST.To Enter, nominate yourself or your favorite people who live in New York in 1 of 3 categories:New To Love (Couples who have been together for less than 15 years)Long Term Love (Couples who have been together for 15 or more years)Love of Family (Enduring family bonds)One Grand Prize Winner will receive:1 yearlong H.Bloom flower subscription from the Classic Collection delivered every other week starting on Valentine's Day - Winners will be able to select 12 full size products from luxury skincare line, NATURA BISS (for a total value of $3,000) and receive two one hour facial treatments (value $400 each) at Natura Bisses Destino Barcelona facial room located at Bergdorf Goodman - 2 nights at Acqualina Resort in Miami and 1 couple's spa treatment - Simon Doonan Prize Pack: 1 copy of Gay Men Don't Get Fat and the Simon Doonan Bouquet from H.Bloom in a Jonathan Adler Vidalia Bud Vase

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Pretty Powerful 2.0

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00

Bobbi Brown's Pretty Powerful goes 2.0 with thirty new women of all backgrounds, careers, and lifestyles to celebrate beauty in all it's unique incarnations. What makes me feel Pretty Powerful? My focus this past year has been on de-stressing nd creating a more healthy lifestyle. I have focused more energy in trying to eat well, drink more water, and incorporate any amount of exercise into my busy daily routine. I can be pretty lazy by nature when it comes to exercise so I've been easing myself back into it. It's all about baby steps. On nice days, I try to take long dog walks with Lulu in the morning. On busy days, a five minute yoga stretch session before bed may be all I have time for. Regardless, I've come to realized after all these years of long hours on the computer, I just can't put myself and my health on the back burner anymore. Being healthy is a vital part of what keeps me feeling good in my skin and body. Visit Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Bobbi Brown via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Bobbi Brown.

James Jeans Couture Collection

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:28:29

The new James Jeans Couture Collection redefines denim with jeans that sculpt your body for the perfect fit. I got to try out a pair the Couture Straight 1213 ($207) in matte black. The jeans fit like a glove and the ever so slight padding on the back pockets give my rump an amazing shape! Trust me, it's not over the top Kardashian style here. I actually couldn't stop looking at my butt in the mirror because it looked so cute! The jeans come in two different washes, either black or a dark denim color called Vesper and come in skinny, straight, or boot cut. The power stretch lycra in the jeans make them so comfortable that you won't want to take them off! The James Jeans Couture collection fit true to size so you can order online with ease. (There are also detailed measurement guides.) Take a look at the James Jeans Couture Collection now online at jamesjeans.us. Note: One pair of jeans were provided courtesy of James Jeans for review.

Win 18k Gold Earrings from Anjolee

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:17:00

Right on time for Valentine's Day, here is my gift to you: a dazzling pair of Gemstone Stud Earrings in 18k white gold, with 4.7 mm amethysts! Yes, here at NY Spender we don't mess around! ;)The earrings are courtesy of Anjolee, a high-end jewelry manufacturer based in San Diego that specializes in Diamond Stud Earrings and customized jewelry.These amethyst earrings, for example, have been personally customized for you by the NY Spender! And it was a pretty simple process, from selecting the metal (gold, white gold, platinum) to selecting the size (up to 3 carats!) to selecting the stone, and they come in such a pretty package (which is always welcome).Anjolee also has an iPhone App, to customize and purchase their Diamond Studs on the go.So whether you are shopping for your girlfriend, or for yourself, this coming Valentine's Day don't forget to check out their Diamond Stud Earrings.And for your chance to win this beautiful pair, just leave a comment below. US residents only. Contest open until Friday, February 10th, 2012, Midnight EST. Winner will be randomly selected on Saturday, February 11th, 2012. Good Luck!