Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2012 is bringing the front-row experience to fashion fans around the world. YouTube and Maybelline New York will once again be bringing the excitement of Lincoln Center to millions of people around the world on YouTube’s Live from the Runway channel at www.youtube.com/liverunway.

Beginning today, Live from the Runway will feature a number of how-to videos, backstage beauty looks and interviews.

Not able to attend the shows?  February 9th -16th will bring live runway shows from numerous acclaimed fashion designers right to your desktop computer.  Stay tuned.

LIVE STREAM SCHEDULE:

Thursday, February 9th

9:00 AM – Nicholas K

10:00 AM – BCBGMAXAZRIA

11:00 AM – Richard Chai

Friday, February 10th

2:00 PM - Rebecca Taylor

3:00 PM - Rebecca Minkoff

6:00 PM - Charlotte Ronson

Saturday, February 11th

10:00 AM - Lacoste

11:00 AM - Jill Stuart

3:00 PM- Herve Léger by Max Azria

6:00 PM - TIBI

7:00 PM- Monique Lhuillier

Sunday, February 12th

2:00 PM- Tracy Reese

3:00 PM - Custo Barcelona

4:00 PM - Diane Von Furstenberg

Monday, February 13th

10:00 AM- Carolina Herrera

11:00 AM- Carlos Miele

3:00 PM- Reem Acra

5:00 PM- Bibhu Mohapatra

6:00 PM- Betsey Johnson

Tuesday, February 14th

10:00 AM- Badgley Mischka

11:00 AM- Vera Wang

3:00 PM- Dennis Basso

8:00 PM- Narciso Rodriguez

Wednesday, February 15th

10:00 AM- Michael Kors

2:00 PM- J Mendel

3:00 PM- Milly by Michelle Smith

6:00 PM- Anna Sui

7:00 PM- Vivienne Tam

RELATED ARTICLE:  NY Fashion Week Fall 2012 schedule of shows

This morning following a press conference held in New York City Italian Fashion Designer Valentino Garavani with partner Giancarlo  Giammetti announced the launch of The Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum.  Anne Hathaway opened the press conference joined by Franca Sozzani, editor in chief of Italian Vogue and Amit Sood, creator of the Google Art Project in New York City.

The online museum is similar to an app.  It was built by French technology company Novacom and can be downloaded from The Archives.  Once downloaded the experience is controlled by touchscreen or a mouse.

The idea is replicating a visit to a palazzo with white walls and a glass roof exposed to the a “blue-roma cloudstream” and the reflection of natural sunlight. Once launched a red cube with a beautiful Valentino gown starts the 3D tour.  A map opens on the right side of the screen to guide you through 10,000 square feet in a brick-and-mortar museum.  Showcasing over 5,000 dresses, original sketches, a look at some of the celebrities who have worn Valentino Couture over the years and an insider peek into the visionaries behind the brand.

From the map a selection can be made to customize the tour.  The opening choice is the Museum Entrance.  This is followed by Themes & Variations, Very Valentino, Creating Couture, The Other Half, Valentino seen by…, The Library, Muses & Friends, Exhibitions & Events and Maison Valentino.  The archives cover a span of fifty years and about 100 fashion shows so there is much to see.

“It is the first time there as been a virtual fashion museum — and people can interact,” says Mr. Giammetti, explaining the concept of digital “master classes” with Valentino.  ”We don’t want Valentino to be just from the past. We want something alive for the future.”

For students this concept speaks their language and allows them entrance through the use of social media sites such as Facebook and You Tube.  A dress can be dissected and craftsmanship seen up close such as the bridal dress of Jacqueline Kennedy for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis in 1968.

At the press conference Giametti went on to explain that the virtual museum will continue to evolve adding more rooms and new features as technology evolves.

The full 50 minute press conference can be viewed on You Tube.

Photo: Valentino

After a long season and much anticipation the winner of Project Runway Season 9 was announced.  The former 2008 Miss Trinadad and Tobago, Anya Ayoung-Chee, pictured above (right) now has another title to add to her list of moments to remember with pride and joy.  This 29 year old from the Port of Spain is the winner of Project Runway’s ninth season on TV.  Not only did the judges, Michael Kors, Nina Garcia and Heidi Klum pick her as their favorite but she also was chosen as “Fan Favorite” by the viewers.

Hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, she launched her women’s label, PILAR, in May 2009 and it has been making waves ever since. In June 2010, she launched a lingerie line named Anya de Rogue, the first of its kind in the Caribbean.

A graduate of Parsons School of Design and Central St Martins School of Art and Design, Anya spent several years working as a designer in New York City until in 2007 she returned home after her eighteen-year old brother Pilar died tragically in a car accident. Soon after the move, Anya was selected to represent her country at the Miss Universe pageant. This experience propelled her into a life in front on the camera as a model and television host. Anya has since hosted several Caribbean television and web-based events and live shows, including movie premieres, fashion shows and her own fashion program “Make It Yours”.

For her 10 piece RTW Spring 2012 collection that was shown at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week on September 9th, 2011 Anya titled the collection “Tobago Love”.  She told the judges that she drew her inspiration from her life in Trinadad and the ease of living there.  Anya dedicated the collection to her brother Pilar, who passed away.  The pieces included beachwear, long flowing dresses, tie-dyed fabrics and geometric prints choosing black and white graphic prints to add to the collection at the last minute. The judges all agreed that her opening look shown at the top of this post was impeccable and well made despite her lack of sewing skills compared to her fellow designers.

The winning designer of Project Runway walks away with $100,000 from L’Oréal Paris to start her own line, a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a $50,000 technology suite by HP and Intel to create her own vision and run her business and the opportunity to design and sell an exclusive collection on Piperlime.com.  Anya has already announced she will be relocating to NYC to start her career in fashion design.

After it was announced that Anya had won she graciously thanked the judges and said ” “What an absolute dream come true! It’s a turning point in my life and I will never, ever be able to forget this moment!”

Listen to Anya discuss her win:

Do you think the judges made the right choice?  Comment below…

Photos: NY Magazine

Mode à Paris (Paris Fashion Week) runs from September 27th to October 5th, 2011 and showcases the RTW collections for Spring 2012.  Paris Fashion Week is a favorite of many Editors and Stylists due to it’s showmanship.  Many of the collections are shown in grand venues with much attention paid to the smallest of details.  Shows by Parisian Designers are grand in scope and the production is much like a show you might see at a Broadway theater.

I have many favorite fashion designers whose collections I anxiously await during Mode à Paris but one of my favorites has to be Balmain which was founded by Pierre Balmain and now designed by 26 year old Olivier Rousteing.

Balmain showed their Spring 2012 RTW show at the Intercontinental Grand Hôtel on Thursday, September 29th. Rousteing credited Nudie Cohn, a Russian-born American tailor who designed decorative rhinestone-covered suits, known popularly as “Nudie Suits”, and other elaborate outfits for some of the most famous celebrities of his era, for the collection taking his inspiration by researching the show costumes that Cohn deigned for westerns seen in the sixties.

Turning to Sin City the collection had a mix of faded denim skirts, jeans and button down shirts, bodycon tight fitted dresses with gold embroidery, hot shorts and Matador inspired leather jackets and leather pants.  In the spirit of Vegas he sent floral dresses down the runway which were inspired by quilted bedspreads.  There was lots of embellishment using sequins, rhinestones, heavy beading techniques, studs and metal buttons.  Belts with large buckles gave the looks a western flare.

The models wore leather gladiator sandals and Western inspired suede booties.

This season it was all about the sparkle and shine.  When Olivier Rousteing was asked if he saw himself as a budding Nicolas Ghesquière, who started out as a hidden talent at Balenciaga, Rousteing exclaimed: “I can only cross my fingers and hope for such a career!”

Images:  Style.com

“The Spring 2012 muse is contemporary, fresh, and ethereal. The collection emphasizes cut and color with unexpected cut-outs in silhouettes. Shades of oyster are highlighted by bold citrus colors of lemon, lime and tangerine. Cropped slouchy embellished sweaters, long skirts and voluminous outerwear in technical fabrics add edge while apron back dresses mixed with bone-colored snake leather bibs inject a pared-down cool attitude, which sets the tone for the Spring 2012 collection.” — Rebecca Taylor, designer

On Friday, September 9th Rebecca Taylor debuted her Spring 2012 collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.  The show opened with an alabaster snake leather and shades of moonlight silk pieced dress. Asymmetrical dresses in a palette of pale muted tones of grays and citron had an ethereal feel.  The collection was easy wearable pieces that could be mixed and matched in a variety of ways.  The nude pailette top pictured in the top photo was shown in three different ways giving each one it’s own stand alone look and feel.  In the theme of fresh she showed a cobalt shibori tie front apron dress and a skirt pictured above that looked like white billowing clouds painted on a blue sky backdrop.  Gunmetal pieces were interjected into the collection throwing a bit of a harder edge into the mix.  The accessories (belts, shoes and handbags) were also designed by Rebecca Taylor.

Hair: Dai Michishita for Cutler

Makeup: Sil Bruinsma for MAC Cosmetics

Nails: OPI

“There’s enough bummer in the world,” Taylor said backstage after her show. “I just want girls to feel pretty and to feel sexy. All my models tell me, this is what we want to wear.”

Photos:  Style.com

“The optical exuberance of gold; Flash mobs of floral and animated shapes; The thrill of adornment in forced perspectives” is how Cynthia Rowley described her Spring 2012 collection shown at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.  The runway was a mirror that reflected an opulence of glamour mixed in with a bit of grunge as seen in the use of embroidered lattice.  There were muted watercolors painted boldly on floral dresses that gave way to solid cream flowing feminine cocktail wear.

There were hints that Rowley was targeting the edgier, hipster girl with her leather mesh tops that gave off a rock and roll vibe along with the floral lattice bonded pants and the leather cut lace shorts.

Accessories added a pop of optical exuberance with gold mesh socks, metallic and leather mesh sandals, enamel “bow-lo” necklaces and gold/black soccer bags.

The collection was fun and edgy, the lattice intricate and eye-catching and overall it was the perfect intersection of where art meets fashion through the carefully planned use of texture.

Hair: Shon for Amika

Makeup: Lottie Stannard for Make Up For Ever

Photos: Style.com

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week will take place in NYC at Lincoln Center from September 8th through September 15th.  During that week Designers will introduce their Spring 2012 collections to the media.  An announcement was made today by IMG Fashion, the production company behind NY Fashion Week, that 30 runway shows will be streamed live on YouTube’s Live from the Runway channel at www.youtube.com/liverunway.  You Tube and Maybelline will launch this channel on September 1st with live shows beginning the opening day of NY Fashion Week, September 8th.  The public will be given access to 30 live runway shows in addition to backstage beauty looks, interviews, trends and how-to videos.

For those who do not have access to a computer when a show is streaming live you may join in by watching on your mobile device using newly added mobile live streaming feature accessible at m.youtube.com/liverunway.  Shows will be archived and available to watch at a later time as well.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to bring designers show’s to a much wider audience via the world’s number one destination online for video content,” said Christina Neault, Executive Producer of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. “We’re excited to work with YouTube and Maybelline New York to promote the event and its incredible roster of shows.”

To view the complete schedule of Spring shows visit mbfashionweek.com

It’s that time again.  Can you believe it?  Mercedes-Benz NY Fashion Week will take place from September 8th – 15th showcasing Spring 2012.  The first schedule was released today by IMG.

Here is a sneak peek of the Spring schedule:

Thursday, September 8

9AM:  
NICHOLAS K, STUDIO

9:30-10:30AM: PORTER GREY, BOX

10AM:  BCBGMAXAZRIA, THEATRE

11AM: 
RICHARD CHAI, STAGE

1PM: 
SUPIMA, STUDIO

1:30-2:30PM: 
CANDELA, BOX

2PM:  
TADASHI SHOJI, STAGE

6-10PM: 
FASHION’S NIGHT OUT

Friday, September 09

9:00AM: EMERSON, STUDIO

9:30AM: PROJECT RUNWAY, THEATRE

11AM: 
LUCA LUCA, STAGE

1:OOPM: GENERAL IDEA, STUDIO

2PM: 
REBECCA TAYLOR, STAGE

2:30-3:30PM: 
MARA HOFFMAN, BOX

5:30PM: 
TOMMY HILFIGER MEN’S, TBA

6PM: 
NICOLE MILLER, STUDIO

6:30-8:30PM: 
CONCEPT KOREA, AVERY FISHER HALL

6:30-7:30PM: 
JOY CIOCI, BOX

7PM 
CYNTHIA ROWLEY, STAGE

8PM: 
ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY, THEATRE

9:00PM: FALGUNI PEACOCK, STUDIO

Saturday, September 10

9AM: 
RUFFIAN, STUDIO

10AM: 
LACOSTE, THEATRE

10:30-11:30AM: 
PINK TARTAN, BOX

11AM: 
JILL STUART, STAGE

12PM: 
SON JUNG WAN, STUDIO

2PM: 
ADAM, STAGE

3PM: 
VIVIENNE TAM, THEATRE

3:30-4:30PM: 
FARAH ANGSANA, BOX

4PM: 
HONOR, STUDIO

6PM: 
CHARLOTTE RONSON, STAGE

7PM: 
MONIQUE LHUILLIER, THEATRE

7-8PM: 
RAFAEL CENNAMO, BOX

9PM: 
VENEXIANA, STUDIO

Sunday, September 11

10:30-11:30AM: 
KATYA LEONOVICH, BOX

11AM: 
LELA ROSE, STUDIO

12PM: 
DEREK LAM, STAGE

1PM: 
DKNY, 547 W 26TH ST

2:00PM: TRACY REEESE, STUDIO

2:30-3:30PM: 
L.A.M.B., BOX

4PM: 
DIANE VON FURSTENBERG, THEATRE

5PM: 
JEN KAO, STUDIO

5PM: Y-3, 82 MERCER ST

6:30-7:30PM: 
ODD MOLLY, BOX

7PM: 
CUSTO BARCELONA, STAGE

8PM: 
TOMMY HILFIGER, THEATRE

9PM: 
TIMO WEILAND, STUDIO

Monday, September 12

9AM: JENNY PACKHAM, STUDIO

9:30-10:30AM: CALLULA LILLIBELLE, BOX

10AM: CAROLINA HERRERA, THEATRE

11AM: CARLOS MIELE, STAGE

1PM: REBECCA MINKOFF, STUDIO

2PM: DONNA KARAN NEW YORK, 547 W 26TH ST

3PM: VLOV, STAGE

4PM: YEOHLEE, TBA

5PM: NORMAN AMBROSE, STUDIO

6PM: BETSEY JOHNSON, THEATRE

6:30-7:30PM: GUISHEM, BOX

7PM: PERRY ELLIS, STAGE

Tuesday, September 13

9:30-10:30AM: J.CREW, STUDIO

10AM: BADGLEY MISCHKA, THEATRE

11AM: VERA WANG, STAGE

1PM: DIESEL BLACK GOLD, 711 12TH AVE

1:30-3:30PM: BIBHU MOHAPATRA, BOX

2PM: HERVÉ LÉGER BY MAX AZRIA, THEATRE

3PM: ARGENTINE DESIGNERS, STAGE

5PM: ZANG TOI, STUDIO

6:30-7:30PM: PAMELLA ROLAND, BOX

7PM: TIBI, STAGE

8PM: NARCISO RODRIGUEZ, THEATRE

9PM: MALAN BRETON, STUDIO

Wednesday, September 14

10AM: MICHAEL KORS, THEATRE

11AM: NANETTE LEPORE, STAGE

1PM: J. MENDEL, STUDIO

2PM: CHADO RALPH RUCCI, THEATRE

3PM: MILLY BY MICHELLE SMITH, STAGE

6PM: ANNA SUI, THEATRE

7PM: ELIE TAHARI, STAGE

Thursday, September 15

10AM: RALPH LAUREN, 275 HUDSON ST

11AM: RALPH LAUREN, 275 HUDSON ST

2PM: CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION WOMEN’S, 205 W 39TH ST

3PM: CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION WOMEN’S, 205 W 39TH ST

5-8PM: MADE IN AFRICA: BY ARISE MAGAZINE , AVERY FISHER HALL

6PM: ELENE CASSIS, STUDIO

7PM: NAEEM KHAN, STAGE

To print the schedule above visit mbfashionweek.com

On Thursday, August 28th we were introduced to the top 20 finalists as Season 9 of Project Runway premiered on Lifetime TV.  After being in NYC for just one day four candidates were eliminated following a “show & tell” session with the 3 judges (Heidi Klum, Michael Kors and Nina Garcia) and Tim Gunn. Then there were 16…

The first challenge was truly that; a challenge.  Waking up at 5am to Tim Gunn’s unannounced “wake up call” the pajama game began.  The top 16 were challenged to create a look using their pajamas they had just slept in and one white bed sheet brought with them from the residence at The Atlas.

The top three were amazing as each one who rose to the top had their own unique set of challenges.  One had only been sewing for 4-5 weeks which greatly concerned the judges during the casting call.  Another was not only color blind but had beaten the odds and survived cancer.  The challenge winner is 57 years old and had not worked in fashion for years also surviving the loss of his partner to Aids.  Quite a backstory for Season 9 of Project Runway.

Let’s start with the winner.  Bert Keeter, age 57, attended Parsons School for Design and the New School in NYC from 1975-1977, studying fashion design. His previous experience includes working for Holly Harp, Bill Blass, Arnold Scaasi and Halston.  He lives in Los Angeles, California.  His challenge was to work with orange-check boxers and a grey t-shirt.

The next designer who impressed the judges with her tailoring skills is Anya Ayong Chee who hails from the islands of Trinadad & Tobago.  Anya has a fine arts bachelor’s degree in communications design from Parsons School of Design.  She was a contestant in the Miss Universe Pageant.  Her aesthetic is heavily influenced by the diverse cultures that comprise Trinidad and Tobago, and the Caribbean as a whole.  Her challenge was to take a silk kimono nightshirt and a sheet and transform them into fitted pants and a Japanese print silk halter top.

Next designer praised for his work was Anthony Ryan Auld.  He is 28 years old and lives in Baton Rouge, LA.  His education includes a Bachelor of Arts in fashion design, with a minor in business, from Louisiana State University. When asked if he had won any awards related to design Anthony proudly replied I received “Best in Show” at Fashion Group International’s Dallas Career Day in 2010.  Anthony turned PJ’s into a lacy tank top and a ruffled mini-skirt.

This is only episode one.  Who is your fan favorite so far?  Only time will tell.

Photos:  Lifetime TV

On February 17th, 2011 Gwen Stefani closed out NY Fashion Week with her L.A.M.B. Fall 2011 collection.  The front row was filled with TV personalities and top stylists.  Spotted in the first row was Jay Manuel (America’s Next Top Model), Joe Zee (Elle Creative Director) and stylists June Ambrose, Memsor Kamarake and Robert Verdi.

The show was a grand fusion of fashion, film and art. A large screen video created by Sophie Muller became the runway backdrop.  For Fall 2011 the show was divided into six segments.

GROUP ONE: SOLDIER GIRLS

Soldier Girls was a parade of military inspired looks.  The opening look included a leather harness.  This was followed by menswear and camouflage.

GROUP TWO: RAGGA MUFFIN GIRLS

Seen in several shows as a trend this season was a return to Navajo prints. Colors included warm tones of orange, red and yellow like a sunset on a warm summer day.  Rasta hats were a key accessory in creating this vignette.

GROUP THREE: LONDON GIRLS

Rebel Rebel created the mood to watch the collection of British menswear. Evoking thoughts of schoolboys at a parochial school wearing tartan plaid pants and wool jackets Gwen delivered the message and set the tone.  The wide print ties complimented the cuff link shirts and tight leather pants.

GROUP FOUR: BUFFALO GIRLS

Native American inspired prints dominated this segment.  The models looked wrapped in tribal wool blankets.  There were solids and some patchwork print looks.  The hair was a thick messy weave topped by small hats.

GROUP FIVE: MOD GIRLS

A throwback to the sixties the color palette turned to black and white.  There were stripes and mod prints with a disco flair.

GROUP SIX: GLAMOUR GIRLS

Using a black canvas the gold jewelry immediately caught the eye.  The intrinsic draping detail gave us a feel of hollywood glamour.  The golden locks were left long and swept over the jeweled accents.

The show concluded with Gwen taking her walk with a proud son Kingston by her side.  Gwen is one mod Mom.

Photos: Style.com

IMG Fashion has released the preliminary schedule for Mercedes-Benz FALL 2011 Fashion Week. NY Fashion Week will run from Thursday, February 10th through Thursday, February 17th. This will be the second season that the shows will take place at Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park.

As last season Lincoln Center will offer three runway venues; The Theatre, Stage and Studio, as well as a fourth presentation space called the Box for designer presentations, industry forums, press conferences and other activities.

“We are proud to welcome so many established and emerging designers to present their Fall collections this season,” said Peter Levy, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IMG Fashion. “The goal of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is to facilitate an opportunity for designers and brands to successfully showcase their talent at an event that will further support the growth of their businesses.”

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE:

February 9, 2011

7:00 PM The Heart Truth’s Red Dress Collection, Theatre

February 10, 2011

9:00 AM Nicholas K, Studio

9:30-10:30 AM Porter Grey, Box*

10:00 AM BCBGMAXAZRIA, Theatre

11:00 AM Richard Chai, Stage

1:00 PM Duckie Brown, Studio

3:00 PM Luca Luca, Stage

3:30-4:30 PM Mara Hoffman, Box*

4:00 PM Tadashi Shoji, Studio

6:00 PM Eva Minge, TBC

7:00 PM Christian Siriano, Stage

8:30-9:30 PM W Hotels Global Glam, Box*

9:00 PM Irina Shabayeva, Studio

February 11, 2011

9:00 AM Ruffian, Studio

9:30-10:30 AM Tess Giberson, Box*

11:00 AM Perry Ellis, Stage

12:00 PM Farah Angsana, Studio

1:30-2:30 PM Buckler, Box*

2:00 PM Rebecca Taylor, Stage

5:30-6:30 PM Tommy Hilfiger Men’s, TBC

6:30-7:30 PM Tommy Hilfiger Men’s, TBC

6:00 PM Nicole Miller, Studio

6:30-7:30 PM Joy Cioci, Box*

7:00 PM Cynthia Rowley, Stage

8:00 PM Academy of Art University, Theatre

9:00 PM Venexiana, Studio

February 12, 2011

10:30-11:30 AM Binetti, Box*

11:00 AM Jill Stuart, Stage

12:00 PM Prabal Gurung, Studio

2:00 PM ADAM, Stage

2:30-3:30 PM MANDY COON, Box*

3:00 PM Vivienne Tam, Theatre

4:00 PM Mik Cire, Studio

6:00 PM Charlotte Ronson, Stage

7:00 PM G-Star RAW, Theatre

9:00 PM Toni Francesc, Studio

February 13, 2011

10:00 AM Derek Lam, Stage

10:30-11:30 AM Timo Weiland, Box*

11:00 AM Lela Rose, Studio

1:00 PM DKNY, 547 W 26th Street

2:00 PM Calvin Klein Collection Men’s, 205 W 39th Street

2:15 PM Tory Burch , Studio

2:30-3:30 PM Yoana Baraschi, Box*

3:00 PM Max Azria, Stage

4:00 PM Diane von Furstenberg, Theatre

5:00 PM CYNTHIA STEFFE, Studio

5:00 PM Y-3, 82 Mercer Street

6:00 PM Carmen Marc Valvo, 4 Times Square

7:00 PM Custo Barcelona, Stage

7:30-8:30 PM Behnaz Sarafpour, Box*

8:00 PM Tommy Hilfiger, Theatre

9:00 PM Zang Toi, Studio

February 14, 2011

9:00 AM Jenny Packham, Studio

9:30- 10:30 AM Callula Lillibelle, Box*

10:00 AM Carolina Herrera, Theatre

11:00 AM Carlos Miele, Stage

1:00 PM Tracy Reese, Studio

2:00 PM Donna Karan New York, 547 W 26th Street

3:00 PM Monique Lhuillier, Stage

5:00 PM pamella roland, Studio

6:00 PM Betsey Johnson, Theatre

6:00 PM Chado Ralph Rucci, TBC

7:00 PM Mackage, Stage

February 15, 2011

9:00 AM Rebecca Minkoff, Studio

9:30-10:30 AM Trias, Box*

10:00 AM Badgley Mischka, Theatre

11:00 AM Vera Wang, Stage

1:00 PM Jen Kao, Studio

1:00 PM Diesel Black Gold, TBC

1:30-3:30 PM Bibhu Mohapatra, Box*

2:00 PM Hervé Léger by Max Azria, Theatre

3:00 PM Dennis Basso, Stage

6:00 PM J. Mendel, Studio

7:00 PM Tibi, Stage

7:30-8:30 PM Frank Tell, Box*

8:00 PM Narciso Rodriguez, Theatre

February 16, 2011

9:00 AM Yigal Azrouël, Studio

9:30-10:30 AM Domenico Vacca, Box*

10:00 AM Michael Kors, Theatre

11:00 AM Nanette Lepore, Stage

1:00 PM Herchcovitch;Alexandre, Studio

1:30-2:30 PM Adrienne Vittadini, Box*

3:00 PM Milly by Michelle Smith, Stage

4:00 PM Helen Yarmak, 730 Fifth Avenue, 23rd Floor

5:00 PM CHRISTIAN COTA, Studio

6:00 PM Anna Sui, Theatre

6:30-7:30 PM Odd Molly, Box*

7:00 PM Elie Tahari, Stage

February 17, 2011

9:00 AM General Idea, Studio

10:00 AM Ralph Lauren, 275 Hudson Street

11:00 AM Ralph Lauren, 275 Hudson Street

1:00 PM Ports 1961, Theatre

2:00 PM Calvin Klein Collection Women’s, 205 W 39th St, Ground Floor

3:00 PM Calvin Klein Collection Women’s, 205 W 39th St, Ground Floor

6:00 PM Elene Cassis, Studio

7:00 PM Naeem Khan, Stage

7:30-8:30 PM LUBLU Kira Plastinina, Box*

8:00 PM L.A.M.B., Theatre

9:00 PM IVANAhelsinki, Studio

*Designer Presentation

Sponsors include DHL, American Express®, Maybelline New York, TRESemmé, Starbucks Frappuccino® Coffee Drink, W Hotels Worldwide, AOL Inc., Kim Crawford Wines, ideeli, FIJI Water, and The Heart Truth® Campaign as well as the following media outlets: The New York Times, Women’s Wear Daily and Getty Images.

To print the schedule as a pdf file click here

Make your own slideshow design

They came out to show support for their favorite fashion designers showing their new collections at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011.  At every show I attended the paparazzi flashbulbs were going off as celebrities took their front row seat.

This season some of the celebrities spotted at runway shows and presentations included  Milla Jovovich, Sarah Jessica Parker, Leighton Meester, Serena Williams, Ed Westwick, Rashida Jones, Kanye West, Jason Lewis, Kristin Cavallari, Coco Rocha, Rachel Bilson, Ashlee Simpson, Kelly Osbourne, Nicky Hilton, Courtney Love, Kimora, Samantha Ronson, Jay Sean, Amanda Hearst, Robert Verdi, Molly Sims, Omarion, Andy Cohen, Elisa Sednaoui, Deborah Cox, Eric McCormack, Iman, Veronica Webb, Katrina Bowden, Kelly Rowland, Debora Cox, Angela and Vanessa Simmons, Mel B, Solange Knowles, Nastia Lukin, Julia Jones, Rachel Zoe, Claire Danes, Olivia Palermo, Jessica Simpson, Heidi Klum, Tyson Beckford, Perrey Reeves, Poppy Delevingne, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Michelle Trachtenberg, Carmen Electra, Cassie, Jessica Szohr, Alison Brie, Alexis Bledel, Leigh Lezark, Gabrielle Union, Jordin Sparks, Brandy, Denise Richards, Kelly Bensimon, Melissa George, Lauren Bush, Sarah Wynter, Jay Alexander, Michael Urie, Tessa Thompson, Keisha Wittaker, Diddy, Kendra Wilkinson, Shannon Elizabeth, Kerry Washington, Rebecca Romijn, Greta Gerwig, Marin Ireland, Mickey Sumner, Katie Lee, Nigel Barker, Aisha Taylor, Perry Farrell, Alan Cumming, Jay Manuel, Kristin Chenoweth, Stanley Tucci, Peaches Geldof, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Natalie Morales, Wonder Girls, The National, Marsha Thomason, Noel Marin, Sherri Baum, Marcia Gay Harden, Camilla Romestrand, among others.

CHECK OUT THE PHOTO GALLERY TO SEE WHAT THEY WORE

With the move uptown to Lincoln Center comes some added technology at NY Fashion Week this season.  Check-in for shows is airport style with a bar coded invite.  No more waiting on crowded lines for the PR team to check you off their list.  GPS has collided with fashion and the benefits are numerous.

With social media being so prevalent to branding designers are tweeting and providing a way for you to “like” them or “join” them on Facebook.  Some designers are also using their blogs, websites and Facebook as a means of live streaming their shows to the masses during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011.

If you were not able to score a press credential, just grab your new IPAD or any computer and watch as the designers bring you their collections live on the internet.  Just click and enjoy your front row seat assignment.

SCHEDULE OF SHOWS FROM SUNDAY. SEPTEMBER 12TH THROUGH THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH:

Sunday, September 12th:

10am - Derek Lam Live Stream, Official Designer Website

1pm – DKNY Live Stream, Official Designer Facebook

2pm – Rebecca Taylor Live Stream, Official Designer Website

8pm – Tommy Hilfiger Live Stream, Official Designer Facebook

9pm – Vassilios Kostetsos Live Stream, Official Designer Website

Monday, September 13th:

10am – Carolina Herrera Live Stream, Official Designer Website

11am – Carlos Miele Live Stream, Official Designer Website

1pm – Tracy Reese Live Stream, Official Designer Website

2pm – Donna Karen New York Live Stream, TBD

6pm – Betsey Johnson Live Stream, Official Designer Website

7pm – Perry Ellis Live Stream, Official Designer Website

9pm – Jenny Packham Live Stream, Official Designer Website

Tuesday, September 14th:

10am – Badgley Mischka Live Stream,http://www.badgleymischka.com/

11am – Vera Wang Live Stream, Official Designer Website

6pm – Luca Luca Live Stream, Official Designer Website

8pm – Narciso Rodriguez Live Stream, Official Designer Website

Wednesday, September 15th:

10am – Michael Kors Live Stream, Official Designer Website

11am – Nanette Lepore Live Stream, Official Designer Website

3pm – Milly by Michelle Smith Live Stream,Official Designer Website

5pm – Odd Molly Live Stream , Official Designer Website

6pm – Anna Sui Live Stream, Official Designer Website

Thursday, September 16th:

12pm – Isaac Mizrahi Live Stream, Official Designer Website

ENJOY THE SHOW!!!

Not able to gain access to NY Fashion Week?  Do not despair as AOL will be teaming up with StyleList.com to bring you live coverage of over 15 shows and 21 presentations from Milk Studios located at 450 West 15th Street.  M.A.C. Cosmetics and Milk Studios have teamed together to offer designers a less expensive venue to showcase their collections at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week S/S 2011.

From now through Thursday September 16th you can watch up and coming designers online and on the big screen in the courtyard at The Standard Hotel located at 13th and Washington in the trendy meatpacking district.  The broadcast will be available 24 hours a day with show recaps.  AOL’s video coverage will be available for delayed use on each designer’s website and on the MAC Facebook page.

“This week in New York is a celebration of the most creative people in fashion and AOL is delighted to be bringing the excitement and energy of Fashion Week as well as exclusive access to the world’s leading designers showcased this week in New York to a broader global audience” said Maureen Sullivan, AOL’s SVP of Brand and Marketing.

The following is a schedule of shows starting from September 12th to September 16th, 2010:

Sunday, Sept. 12
11:45 a.m. Preen. It must be in the Brit blood to be effortlessly cool — and Preen has it down to a science.

7:15 p.m. Erin Fetherston. The girl with the perfect bangs also designs the perfect dresses. Ethereal and easy, Fetherston makes us want to play dress up.
Monday, Sept. 13
10:15 a.m. Richard Chai Menswear. After working for heavy hitters like Armani Exchange, Donna Karan, and Marc Jacobs, Chai is now a force to reckoned with.

3:15 p.m. RAD by Rad Hourani. Out to change wardrobes, Hourani designs unisex clothing that is structured and beautiful.

Tuesday, Sept. 14
1:15 p.m. Matthew Ames. Think beautiful draping in unexpected shapes, colors, and textures. We can’t wait to be surprised by his Spring 2011 collection.

5:15 p.m. The Row. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen not only wear luxurious clothes but also create them. Celeb fans include Gwyneth Paltrow, Selma Blair, Heidi Klum, and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Wednesday, Sept. 15
12:15 p.m. Jeremy Scott. His outrageous creations are not for the faint of heart! Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Agyness Deyn have claimed him to be their favorite designer.

9:15 p.m. “Imitation.” Actress turned designer Tara Subkoff returns to fashion week with this easy-to-wear line full of artful accents.

Thursday, Sept. 16
11:15 a.m. Jeremy Laing. The self-taught Canadian has an organic and geometric approach to pattern making and construction: “My Spring/Summer 2011 collection took its cues from the billowing flag across the street from my bed room window that I wake to each morning.”

To view the shows online visit Stylelist.com and follow @MilkStudiosNYLA on Twitter for NY Fashion Week updates.

For previous shows visit milkmade.com to view runway videos from designers such as Alexander Wang, Patrik Ervell, Vena Cava, Peter Som, Joseph Altuzzara and more.

André Leon Talley, Vogue Editor-at-Large, and model turned blogger Hanneli Mustaparta will host a live webcast of Fashion Night Out: The Show.  On September 7th, 2010 at 7pm ET CBS.com will live stream the largest fashion show ever in New York City.  Presented by Macy’s and Maybelline New York, 150 top models will gather at Lincoln Center, the new home to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week S/S 2011, to showcase the best of Fall fashion trends.

“As CBS.com continues to be one of the top sites in the entertainment field, it will prove to be the perfect home for an event of this magnitude,” said Anthony Soohoo, SVP & GM of Entertainment & Lifestyle at CBS Interactive. “We are thrilled to be able to allow our millions of users a first look at fall’s hottest trends in addition to inspiring awareness of the much-needed economic stimulus that Fashion’s Night Out provides.”

Fashion Night Out is a global initiative taking place in over 15 countries.  In New York City FNO will take place on Friday, September 10, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.  More than 800 participating stores across the five boroughs will take part staging exciting, one-of-a-kind events in stores open after-hours to the public. Last year shoppers were able to see Sarah Jessica Parker singing standards with Oscar de la Renta, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen tending bar, as well as Michael Kors, Justin Timberlake, Kate Hudson, Rihanna and Gwen Stefani (just to name a few) at various stores throughout NYC supporting the industry.  This year promises even better and bigger events.

CBS will follow their live webcast with a TV special that is set to air on Tuesday, September 14th from 10pm to 11pm ET.  The special will give viewers a chance to take a glimpse into the making of Fashion Night Out.  Cameras will follow celebrities, designers, editors and retailers as they prepare for one of the most anticipated events of the year, providing a unique view of the creative and logistical work that goes into coordinating an event of this magnitude.

For more information or to view the live stream visit www.cbs.com/FNO.

THIS VIDEO WILL GO LIVE AT 7PM ET ON SEPTEMBER 7TH:

Bananas!!  I Die!!  The celebrity stylist to the stars, Rachel Zoe, is returning to Bravo TV for a third season of THE RACHEL ZOE PROJECT premiering on Tuesday, August 3rd at 11pm ET.

Rachel’s current celebrity client list includes Jennifer Garner, Kate Hudson, Kate Beckinsale, Debra Messing, Demi Moore, Joy Bryant, Molly Sims, Eva Mendes, and Anne Hathaway.

In addition to styling editorial and advertising campaigns using her unique flair for glamour, Zoe has penned a style book called Style A to Zoe: The Art of Fashion, Beauty, and Everything Glamour. She recently joined forces with QVC selling a line of affordable accessories and faux fur.

Rachel has lent her keen eye to highlight her favorites at Piperlime.com (Gap’s online destination for shoes and handbags) where she works as an Editorial Consultant.

Now the force behind glam fashion is returning for another season of The Rachel Zoe Project.  The cast of characters will change when Brad Goreski steps up from Styling Associate to Styling Director as the announcement comes that former director, Taylor Jacobson, has left the company.  Rachel’s husband, Rodger Berman, will take over as President of Rachel Zoe, Inc.

As Rachel’s star power continues to grow expect to see guest appearances this season from Gwen Stefani, Demi Moore, Molly Sims, and Johnny Weir.

Follow Rachel on Twitter and sign up for the Daily Zoe Report.

Here is a sneak peek at the upcoming third season as we follow Team Zoe to NY Fashion Week and beyond:

As many of you may already know Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week has left midtown Bryant Park for a more uptown vibe.  From September 9th through the 16th, 2010 NY Fashion Week will relocate to Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center.  With that move will come some transitions and some changes.

In a press release, Peter Levy, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IMG Fashion Worldwide said “This is a very exciting day for us, The move has allowed IMG to reinvent and improve so many aspects of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week as well as develop a stronger link to the surrounding facilities and spaces available at Lincoln Center and the neighborhood.  This is the first season in what we are confident will be a long ‘run’ at Lincoln Center.”

Some improvements will be a spacious lobby with a new facade that will allow for sponsor booths and a schedule of the day’s events projected on a wall to make it easier for guests to stay on time and move around the four spaces. Bryant Park housed three “tents” called the Tent, Salon and Promenade.  At Lincoln Center those tents will be replaced with The Theater, a 969-seat venue with a larger backstage area and a video screen; The Stage, a 740-seat space and The Studio, a 396-seat space.  With the additional space available IMG will add a fourth presentation space called The Box.  This new space will house smaller presentations for designers not wishing to put on a runway show.  The Box could also be used for lectures, forums and to meet with the press.

Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, the new Director of Fashion, Lincoln Center said “We are delighted to provide Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week with a new home and an extraordinary array of possibilities. Over the past few years, Lincoln Center has undergone a transformation, resulting in a campus that is aesthetically spectacular as well as extremely accessible. We look forward to providing the fashion industry with one central location for activities in and around the tents. In addition, we plan to welcome consumers with a dynamic array of opportunities to engage with the art of fashion.”

With social media growing in leaps and bounds IMG Fashion has embraced this technology and will offer digital services that did not exist previously. Designers will have access to a designer centric website that will allow for smoother registration and credential checks.  There will be online RSVP and the use of bar-coded invites so guests can check themselves in and wait times will be greatly reduced.

Fern Mallis just announced she will be leaving her position as IMG senior vice-president following a successful nine year run as the global ambassador of NY Fashion Week.  She will be launching her own executive advisory and consulting firm, Fern Mallis LLC.  In a statement, Mallis said “I’ll be at the shows in September. They absolutely want me to be there and I want to be there, I’m assuming the designers are still going to invite me to their shows.”

With Lincoln Center offering so many cultural experiences there will be many outdoor cafes and seating areas to enjoy in addition to an outdoor garden. This will truly be a season where “art meets fashion“.

Feeling excited over your newest tech purchase, the iPad?  Now that you have mastered the basics let’s take a look at over 150,000 apps that are ready and waiting for you to download.  With so much to choose from where should you start?

Here are ten top picks to help you to satisfy your fashion cravings for FREE:

1.  Gilt Groupe

As an iPad owner you are invited to join Gilt Groupe.  You will get insider access to today’s top designers for men, women, children and luxury living.  All at up to 70% off retail.  Membership is free.  The first 10,000 iPad owners to join as a new member will receive a $10 credit.  To use simply touch and drag items to your cart.  Use pinch-and-zoom to full details in full screen mode. Also have sale alerts sent straight to your iPad so you never miss a sale.

2.  Net-A-Porter

Welcome to world’s leading online fashion retailer.  Since launching in June 2000, NET-A-PORTER has successfully established itself as a luxury brand with impeccable packaging and unrivalled customer care.  Buy wherever you are, create wish lists on the move, read the weekly fashion news and shop new luxury arrivals twice a week.  It’s fabulous fashion right in the palm of your hand.

3.  Fashion 411

Get your daily style fix with The Fashion 411. Star trends and beauty tips, catwalk and high street looks and much more.

4.  Vogue Stylist

Create personalized fashion and beauty looks based upon the top trends identified by Vogue Editors. See the items that you own styled with the latest fashion, accessories and beauty products from the brands in Vogue.  Create your virtual wardrobe by taking photos of the clothes, accessories and beauty products that you own.  Save favorite products from Vogue to your wardrobe.

5.  Style.com

Always on the run? Get it to go…  Style.com’s iPad app lets you view the latest fashion shows right in the palm of your hand.  Download for the newest ready-to-wear and couture runway shows, exclusive party photos and the style file blog.  Your device will be automatically updated to display the most current coverage.  In addition to perusing every look from New York, Paris, Milan and London you can also stream and watch Style.com’s entire library of runway videos.

6.  Fashion Network Original

Covering runway fashion shows from New York, Paris, Milan, London, Los Angeles and Miami Fashion Weeks. Models, hair & makeup and designer interviews. Fashion Network™ International channels fashion 24/7.

7. Chicfeed

Chicfeed.com brings together photos from the web’s top style / fashion blogs and puts them on one site which saves you time and puts all your photo view interests in one place!  Blogs/sites currently included:The Sartorialist, Face Hunter, Jak And Jill Blog, Cherry Blossom Girl, LookBook and altamira.

8.  Pocket Closet

Pocket Closet turns your iPhone, iPod touch and iPad into your personal wardrobe manager.  Catalog your clothing and fashion accessories and easily add your own photos. The built-in calendar tracks what you wore in the past and lets you plan what you’ll wear in the future.  Let your friends know what is in your wardrobe or what you’re wearing. With just a few taps, Pocket Closet will send them an email, and they can view the items you’ve shared on the Web even if they don’t have an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad!

9.  Trendstop TrendTracker

Trend analysis for fashion and creative professionals.  Trendtracker from trendstop.com lets you keep track of the latest runway looks, fashion news, trend ideas and inspiration directly on your mobile phone or iPad.  View coverage of the latest fashion shows from New York, London, Milan, and Paris, as well as show schedules and event guides – wherever you are!

10. Lucky At Your Service

Your digital shopping concierge.  Now connecting you to more products and better deals every day. Shop Lucky’s favorite looks of the season online or from your iPhone or iPad with Lucky At Your Service, the first-ever digital shopping concierge. See something you like? Buy it immediately online or we can track it down at a store near you, check availability, and even put it on hold for same-day pickup!

Surf, shop and style yourself on the go.  Anytime, anywhere 24/7.  What other apps have you downloaded?  Tell us in the Comments section below.

You might know him as the king of “fierce” but apparently Season 4 Project Runway winner Christian Siriano is out to prove he is no one trick pony.  In a Bravo TV Special debuting on April 5th at 10pm ET/PT Christian Siriano will have his “moment”.  The one-hour special, Christian Siriano: Having A Moment, was taped in 2009 and shows his journey as prepares to show his Spring 2010 collection at NY Fashion Week.  This will be his third season showing his collections.

We see Christian and his staff as they go through model castings and fittings and in the middle of all the craziness actress Tori Spelling and husband Dean McDermott drop in for a fitting and hemline adjustment.  Short but never “slutty”.  His busy schedule also includes a meeting with Singer Estelle‘s Stylist and a red carpet dress fitting with” 30 Rock” actress Katrina Bowden according to Bravo.

Since winning Project Runway Season 4 for his “fierce” designs this young fashion designer has gone on to create a shoe collection for Payless, designed a line of maternity wear called “Fierce Mamas” and even had his red carpet moment at the Golden Globe Awards when “Mad Men’s” Christina Hendricks wore a peach organza strapless ruffled gown adapted from his Spring 2010 collection.  His most recent project was showing his Fall 2010 collection at NY Fashion Week.

Apparently his fame has also changed his jargon with new phrases such as J’adore and genius both spoken with a certain dialect as to raise eyebrows.  His newest signature phrase du jour is “moment” or “having a moment” depending on how rushed he is.

Maybe his one-hour special will turn into a reality show.  For now we will have to settle on a moment of his time.

To catch a sneak peek of the Bravo TV special see the video above.

(Trouble viewing the video: click here)

DecadesTwo, the Hollywood upscale consignment store, is set to open a pop-up shop in NYC.  This special event will take place at Kiki de Montparnasse in Soho starting Thursday, March 18th and run through Sunday, March 21st.

The consignors at DecadesTwo are an elite group of celebrities, socialites, fashionistas and others who are never seen in the same gown twice.  Celebrity clients include Julianne Moore, Christina Ricci, Courtney Love and Rachel Zoe. Expect to see treasures from designer labels such as Chanel, Gucci, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, Chloé, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Giambattista Valli and more.  A special section will be devoted to Alexander McQueen with clothing and accessories. Garments will be sold for as much as 80% off the original price.  Spring garments have been hand picked by co-owner Christos Garkinos.  DecadesTwo showcases items from the mid-nineties through the current season.

The best part of this exciting event will take place on the final day, Sunday, March 21st, when your favorite mile high stilettos will be sold for $150 or less. Manolos, Louboutins, Chanel, Gucci, YSL and more will be up for grabs!!!  Can you feel your inner Carrie Bradshaw squealing with delight?

“Our New York fans have been begging Decadestwo to come to the ‘city’ since we were founded 11 years ago. Although we are fashionably late, it will be so more than worth it. We love the space at Kiki and can’t wait to pop-up!” says Decadestwo co-owner Christos Garkinos.

Where: DecadesTwo at the salon inside Kiki de Montparnasse, 79 Greene St at Spring St., 212-965-8150

When: Thursday, March 18th – Sunday, March 21st  Hours: 11 – 7pm,  Sunday 12 – 5pm.

Rodarte, founded by Sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy in 2005, showed during NY Fashion Week they can still stage an amazing fashion show.  For Fall 2010, the Sisters went back to their roots to explore the culture of Juarez and small Mexican border towns.  They described the inspiration as ethereal “sleepwalking between worlds“, sleepy towns that appeared almost abandoned.

The collection consisted of chunky knits sweaters, crocheted cardigans and intricate knitwear.  If there is one thing they have proven over and over it is that they know how to create home spun looking knitwear.  They seem to lean towards invoking a nomadic feel when working with wools and knitwear.  There were also numerous almost vintage like floral prints in subdued tones.  The color palette was varied with shades of pink, ivory and muddy earth tones.

The Mexican reference was seen in some of the aztec prints where they layered mismatched patchwork pieces. Pants were worn under skirts and often with layered socks. Ballerina ribbons entwined the ankles of the models. Nicholas Kirkwood designed the shoes which added another dimension to the collection.  The purple, black and white shoes made a statement all their own as did the crimson red shoes.

Embellished and lace hosiery also added to the ethereal feel of the looks as they faded to childlike white fairy tale lace gowns.  The last few models remained on stage as the room faded to blacklight and their shoes lit up with tiny bulbs as candles burned and wax dripped behind them.  As I said another wonderfully staged collection proving the Mulleavy sisters worthy of their numerous accolades and projects.  These young sisters are the “ones to watch“…

PHOTOS:  WWD

]]> http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/03/02/rodarte-crosses-the-border-ny-fashion-week-fall-2010/feed 0 http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/02/27/marc-jacobs-over-the-rainbow-ny-fashion-week-fall-2010 http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/02/27/marc-jacobs-over-the-rainbow-ny-fashion-week-fall-2010#comments Sun, 28 Feb 2010 03:47:53 +0000 Sheryl Blasnik http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/?p=1490

I know why the caged bird sings, 56 caged birds to be more exact.

On Monday, February 15th, Marc Jacobs presented his Fall 2010 collection in a most unusual way.  Upon entering the Lexington Armory there stood a box shrouded in paper.  As the lights dimmed and the guests scurried to take their seats the paper was torn and 56 lady like models were revealed.  Mixed lyrics from “Over The Rainbow” started and the first model stepped out of the box and started her way down the runway toward the guests and the crowd of photographers awaiting that first look.

What can I say about the collection?  It was the All-American girl.  Gray was the predominant color which faded to lemon yellow as the pure and simple RTW line transitioned into a more elegant evening look.  Despite the conservative feel of the collection with hemlines that fell below the knee and librarian sweaters there was a mix of fur on the coats and one sparkly trench with a thick fur collar that I am sure many guests were lusting for.  The models clutched delicate chain strapped purses some trimmed with fur.  The hair and make-up was simple and effortless matching the traditional muted colors of the garments.

“These were gorgeous, real clothes that were beautifully done,” said Joe Zee, creative director for Elle magazine. “Don’t you walk away feeling elated? Isn’t that the whole point of fashion?”

The clothes were easy on the eye and easy to wear compared with Marc’s previous collections.  Was the designer having an inner stream of consciousness projecting forward to the next exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute whose theme is aptly called …  American Women: Fashioning a National Identity.  The exhibit is set to open on May 5th, 2010 with the Gala Ball scheduled to take place on May 3rd. Perhaps? Only time will tell.

To really get a sense of the collection and the presentation you must watch it. Photos simply do not do it justice so sit back and enjoy the entire uncut version.

PHOTOS:  WWD

“For Fall, I drew inspiration From Chinese Warrior and military suits.  Strong silhouettes with a tough, chic edge.  Long sleeves, high necks, strong shoulders with short skirts.  Lots of leg… they look almost soldier like.  I’m ready for Fall!”

Monday, February 15th, I attended the Monique Lhuillier Fall 2010 fashion show held in the Promenade tent.  Monique was introduced to the world of glamour and fashion at a young age when her family traveled extensively. She left home at age 15 to pursue her dream of working in the world of fashion. She is best known for her bridal and evening wear but this season opened with jacquard, lacquered matelassé and wool crepe short dresses and skirts. Crimson reds, dragon printed jacquards and velvet gave the collection a feminine edge

There was a refined business power suit made of black and white tweed with frayed tulle detail.  She also showed a beautiful Crimson jacquard strapless dress with a gold leather chain bolero.  This look was simple and yet exuded elegance.

As the show progressed the hemlines dropped to floor length.  Her soldier effect transitioned to soft and flowing gowns.  There were one shoulder chiffon gowns, asymmetrically draped gowns and a stunning form fitting black sequin long sleeve cheongsam column gown that would be appropriate for both young and old.

The final look was a Shanghai red duchesse draped gown with a floral skirt. The shoes were Bruno Frisoni and jewelry was designed by Tony Duquette sold in Saks Fifth Avenue.

This CFDA designer showed us what she does best:  High Drama.

PHOTOS:  WWD

Catherine Malandrino named her Fall 2010 collection “KHAN”.  Her initial inspiration: A vision of the Earth from space; the landscape, the texture and the contrast of colors between land and sea.

Models perched on tall pedestals were reminiscent of “Where The Wild Things Are“.  It felt primal in nature with fur, shearling, zebra and leopard prints and goat hair.  Animal skins were wrapped tight to the body in dark earth tones creating a cocoon warmth.  There were looks of distressed leather and fringe and embroidery embellishments added to the organic untamed nature of the looks.

To take us from day to night there were also blouson dresses and plissé gowns.  The primary color palette was cerulean blue, burnt orange and mineral tones of black, browns and khaki.  Bell necklaces and earrings adorned the evening wear reminding us that the Malandrino woman is daring, sensual and timeless.

Cashmere tunics and oversized wool boucle sweaters created a balanced collection.  Wool pants were loosely draped.  Everything was layered and heavily accessorized reminding us that this was a fall/winter collection meant to brave the elements and win.  This French Designer showed she is fierce and feral. Even the shoes, which were hoof-like, had a savage feel.

I think Catherine herself put it best when she said, “I want to bring softness and refinement to the urban feminine wardrobe and to help the woman show her individuality through her unique clothes.”

PHOTOS:  STYLE.COM

Russian dolls took to the runway at Alexandre Herchcovitch‘s Fall 2010 show on February 17th at the Salon.  For Fall, Herchcovitch used Soviet legends and folklore for his inspiration.  The cinematic influence of Georgian Director Sergei Parajanov created an Armenian undertone to the looks he sent down the runway.

The strong ethnic influence was captured by both his choice of fabrics and the crystal and chain headpieces worn over chromatic and print turbans.  There was an eclectic mix of brightly colored plaids and more somber colors typical of the former U.S.S.R.  Punk elements of fur and fishnets introduced a rock influence along with black crochet tops.  The collection had Swarovski elements sewn on old world silk prints with heavy gold chains to create a captivating poetic vision.

Some of the last looks were adorned with black trim, beading and paillettes.  A black skirt trimmed in fur and accessorized with a studded fur muff showcased the tribal influences of this cross cultural collection.  I also wanted to pay homage to the boots which added an urban mix.

After attending this show I hope that the future of fashion lies in our Soviet counterparts.

PHOTOS:  STYLE.COM

On February 13th, I was seated behind Anna Wintour to take in the Prabal Gurung Fashion Show for Fall 2010. To give you some insight as to why I was so excited to see his fall collection let me give you a brief background on Prabal.

Prabal Gurung, a graduate of Parsons, started his NYC experience interning for Donna Karan and went on to land a design position with Cynthia Rowley who attended his show.  After two years he became Design Director at Bill Blass. His name became known in the industry when he was nominated for Fashion Group International’s rising star award and this year Prabal was awarded $25,000 by the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation when he was one of 4 winners in the women’s wear category.  He also took part in the Ecco Domani Fashion Show at the tent on February 15th showing seven looks on the runway.

This Nepal-born young designer had a front row of some tough critics to please.  Spotted:  Anna Wintour and Daughter, Bee, along with Rachel Zoe and her assistant Brad Goreski.  Avatar star Zoe Saldana was also seated front row.

The show opened with a cashmere coat and a camel matte wool skirt.  Best known for his exquisite tailoring he did not disappoint.  There were looks with contrasting colors and black and white was shown in an interesting, sometimes color blocked, way.  Besides showing “office ready” apparel he also added a cement grey sheared mink coat with a silver fox capelet.  Handmade lambskin gauntlet gloves accessorized a black wool faille zippered dress with a hem of horsehair.

The last looks were gowns made of silk gazar in crimson and in bottle green. With actresses like Gossip Girl’s Leighton Meester and Demi Moore among his fan base I am sure we are bound to see a Prabal Gurung custom couture gown grace the red carpet.  The 2010 Oscars perhaps…

PHOTOS:  WWD

“Elements of nature brought to a downtown scene” is how J. Mendel described his Fall 2010 RTW collection. The inspiration taken from Ryan McGinley’s “MOONMILK” series of vibrant and cavernous photos.

I had the pleasure to be wowed by Gilles Mendel and his Fall 2010 collection on the last day of NY Fashion Week, February 18, 2010. As the doors opened to the Salon models were perched upon white pedestals taking turns stepping down to walk the runway for the photographers.

I was immediately drawn into the statement fur coats and the fur accessories. This Paris bred designer demonstrated his ability to work with fox, mink and black swakara to create sophisticated coats and vests that are as “luxurious on the inside as the outside”. A ranch mink messenger bag and brown dyed silver fox muff accessorized the looks.

The cocktail dresses and gowns injected color into the Fall collection as you circled the room. The palette included volcanic greens, prussian blues and hues of deep red. The silk georgette was beautifully draped with ruffle and bead detail. The hand done ruched trim and one shoulder dresses added an understated elegance to his evening wear.

To give a more downtown edge models wore gunmetal pyramid jewelry designed by Christine McPartland. I also need to give a nod to the Christian Louboutin black boots. Even the boots were wearing fur.

PHOTOS:  WWD

On Thursday, February 11th, 2010 the Heart Truth Red Dress Collection Fashion Show was held at NY Fashion Week in the large Tent.  This is a show that brings together top couture and fashion designers with celebrities to raise awareness of the threat that heart disease poses to women worldwide.  To date more than 60 design houses and 107 celebrities have participated in this show which started in 2002.

The Fall/Winter 2010 show included Bethenny Frankel, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Felicity Huffman, Dara Torres, Estelle, Heidi Klum, Joan Collins, Jordin Sparks, Kim Kardashian, Kimora Lee, Kristen Chenoweth, Mamie Gummer, Pauley Perrette, Raven-Symone, Regina King, Robin Roberts and Valerie Harper. These celebrities strutted the catwalk to music by Rene Goulet.

The make-up was done by Bobbi Brown for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and the hair was styled by Jimmy Paul for Bumble and bumble.  Brian Atwood contributed his brilliantly designed shoes.  The red hot dresses from this show will be auctioned off at www.clothesoffourback.org through March 5th.

Joan Collins wearing Stephanie Rolland, Kim Kardashian wearing Marchesa, Regina King wearing Tracy Reese, Valerie Harper wearing Pamella Roland

Felicity Huffman wearing Oscar de la Renta, Elisabeth Hasselbeck wearing Donna Karan, Kristen Chenoweth wearing Daniel Swarovski, Raven-Symone wearing Tadashi Shoji

PHOTOS:  AP

]]> http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/02/16/heart-truth-red-dress-collection-ny-fashion-week-aw-2010/feed 0 http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/02/11/fashion-designers-streaming-shows-live-from-ny-fashion-week http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/02/11/fashion-designers-streaming-shows-live-from-ny-fashion-week#comments Thu, 11 Feb 2010 05:27:50 +0000 Sheryl Blasnik http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/?p=1349

Not a buyer for Barneys?  Not a staffer at Vogue?  Still want to see the star-studded runway shows at Mercedes-Benz Fall 2010 Fashion Week starting on February 11th?

Good news!  You can now have a front row seat.  Instead of an invite all you need is a computer and an internet connection.  Thanks to the advent of technology some top name Fashion Designers are bringing their catwalk shows to the masses.  Shows will be streamed live using Facebook and various websites.  Here is a list of the shows with dates and times.  Grab your laptop and get ready to be a part of NY Fashion Week.

Who: Ports 1961

When: Thursday, February 11 at 3 p. m.

Where: Vogue.com

Who: Lacoste

When: Saturday, February 13 at 10:30 a. m.

Where: Lacoste Facebook page

———————————————————
Who: Alexander Wang

When: Saturday, February 13 at 5:00 p. m.

Where: SHOWstudio.com

———————————————————

Who: Calvin Klein Men’s

When: Sunday, February 14 at 2:00 p. m.

Where: CalvinKleinInc.com or the Calvin Klein Facebook page

———————————————————

Who: Marc Jacobs

When: Monday, February 15 at 8:00 p. m.

Where: MarcJacobs.com

———————————————————

Who: Rodarte

When: Tuesday, February 16 at 12:00 p. m.

Where: SHOWstudio.com

———————————————————

Who: G-Star Raw

When: Tuesday, February 16 at 7:00 p. m.

Where: G-star.com

———————————————————

Who: Proenza Schouler

When: Wednesday, February 17 at 8:00 p. m.

Where: ProenzaSchouler.com

———————————————————

Who: Marc Bouwer

When: Thursday, February 18 at 9:00 a. m.

Where: MarcBouwer.com

———————————————————

Who: Calvin Klein Women’s

When: Thursday, February 18 at 3:00 p. m.

Where: CalvinKleinInc.com or the Calvin Klein Facebook page

———————————————————

For the full schedule of all the shows and presentations see NY Magazine.

Supermodel NAOMI CAMPBELL has called upon fashion designers and celebrities alike to help bring FASHION FOR RELIEF™, a star-studded runway show, to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.  This event will take place at Bryant Park (NYC) on February 12th at 7:00 pm.  The show will be hosted by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York.  She will be joined by model and activist Christy Turlington.

Naomi Campbell says, “I am deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in Haiti. So many have been killed and severely affected by the earthquake — women and children in particular are most vulnerable in disasters. Fashion is universal, personal and touches everyone. Our aim is to use this season’s catwalk shows in New York to reach people and help raise crucial funds to help save the lives of women and children.”

The show will be styled by Rachel Zoe, hair done by Orlando Pita, and make up by Charlotte Willer for Maybelline New York. Chopard will provide the jewelry. Items from the charity fashion show, which will feature a specially-designed Louis Vuitton handbag by Marc Jacobs, will then be auctioned off online starting on February 15th at NET-A-PORTER.  100% of the proceeds from the ticket sales and the auction will go to CARE, a charity rebuilding Haiti’s healthcare system for mother and children.

American Express Cardmembers will have exclusive access to purchase tickets before the general public for $100 and $150 starting February 5th at Ticketmaster.  ”American Express is proud to join Naomi Campbell’s Fashion For Relief -Haiti NYC, 2010 to help bring together some of the boldest names in the industry for a wonderful cause,” said Jessica Igoe, Director of Global Sponsorship Marketing, American Express. “We are continually looking to connect our Cardmembers with the passions and experiences that they love and we are honored to connect them with an amazing fashion experience under the Tents that will ultimately provide needed assistance for the people of Haiti.”

She has done it once again, stopped traffic and co-hosts dead in their tracks as she exited the limo. LADY GAGA arrived at the Grammy Awards dressed in a custom Haute Couture Armani Privé spring/summer 2010 collection white translucent orb-like dress.

Armani was the master astronomer in Paris at his Couture runway show on January 26th, 2010. The aurora borealis crystal solar system was channeled into a real show stopper on the red carpet.

Here is the gown from the runway at the Armani Privé spring/summer 2010 collection:

And now presenting the outrageous out of this world LADY GAGA in a celestial organza globe dress with sequin platform sandals holding a silver star at the 2010 Grammy Awards…

Lady Gaga has been nominated for FIVE awards at the 2010 GRAMMY Awards:

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: THE FAME

SONG OF THE YEAR: “POKER FACE”

RECORD OF THE YEAR: “POKER FACE”

BEST DANCE RECORDING: “POKER FACE”

BEST ELECTRONIC/DANCE ALBUM: THE FAME

PHOTO CREDIT: AP

For more information on the 2010 Grammy Awards visit Grammy.com

Supima, the world’s finest cottons, hosted the third annual design competition on Tuesday, Jan. 19th at the New York Times Center.

The open casting call was narrowed down to six finalists who strutted their designs down the runway. The finalists included Nadia Ivanova, Robin Tomas, Michael Venker, Gina DeSilva, Heber Sanchez, and lookalike sister duo Sachika’s To-Tam and To-Nya Ton-Nu.

The designers were judged Project Runway style by New York Times Style Magazine’s Horacio Silva, Bloomingdale’s fashion director, Chris Frye, Wall Street Journal contributor, Teri Agis and Parsons dean of fashion, Simon Collins.

Supermodel Coco Rocha dressed in Victor de Souza, who is preparing to release her own line of apparel in 2011, was the Guest Presenter of the evening. “It’s exciting to be here, because there are so many people pumped up and ready to go. Something like this can really get you started.” explained Rocha.

The runway backdrop was birch trees & cotton balls/branches. Each contestant was presented with the challenge of designing three evening wear pieces and one unisex T-Shirt using cotton.  Each of the three pieces needed to represent 3 categories: fine-quality shirting; fine cotton jersey; denim and corduroy.

There were cocktail dresses, asymmetric gowns, halter dresses, sculpted silhouette ball gowns, ruffles and appliques.

Robin Tomas won for the best T-shirt design presenting a triple-layer jersey design in black, gray, and white.

The top prize of “Best in Show” award was presented to Gina DeSilva for her excellent craftsmanship and use of fabric.

Congratulations Gina.

To watch a video of the runway show visit You Tube

Atari has announced it will release a new PROJECT RUNWAY game for Wii. The videogame developed by Tornado Studios will hit store shelves and Amazon on March 2, 2010 retailing for $39.99.

This new fashion accessory will include your beloved Judges Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia and Michael Kors, Mentor Tim Gunn as well as the top eight contestants from season six including reigning Project Runway winner Irina Shabayeva.

As in the popular TV show players become aspiring fashion designers who are presented with a series of challenges to complete. The looks are presented on models with full hair, makeup and accessories. The designers use the Wii Balance Board™ as a runway to present their creations.

The game will also include some “extras” such as an interactive garment studio, a hair and make up studio, a catwalk game using the Wii Balance Board™ and a chance to go behind the lens as a fashion photographer participating in a hi-profile photo shoot.

The Weinstein Company, who are the executive producers of Project Runway, said in a statement “We are so thrilled about our new partnership with the Atari team and are especially pleased to present Project Runway fans with this new and exciting experience.”

Project Runway airs on Lifetime TV on Thursday nights at 10pm ET.

For more information, please visit Atari online

]]> http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/01/19/game-on-project-runway-for-wii/feed 1 http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/01/19/2010-golden-globes-fashion-from-runway-to-red-carpet http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2010/01/19/2010-golden-globes-fashion-from-runway-to-red-carpet#comments Tue, 19 Jan 2010 05:48:20 +0000 Sheryl Blasnik http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/?p=1136

On Sunday, January 17th, the 67th annual Golden Globe Awards took place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. The red carpet was a sea of umbrellas as rain soaked the open red carpet arrivals. Sometimes it seemed as if umbrellas were the accessory du jour. It was an “aqua-net” type of evening on the west coast. There was also another accessory seen by many. Red ribbons were worn in support of those who lost their lives in Haiti and those who continue to suffer from this tragedy.

The style stars were out for a real star-studded couture carpet. Some stars were double nominated such as Sandra Bullock and Meryl Streep. There were also some newcomers making their first appearance. Gabourey Sidbe, the star of Precious, was nominated for Best Actress Motion Picture Drama.

The fashion included champagne gowns, frilly ruffles, exquisite lace and embellished waistbands.  Here are some of the haute standouts working the red carpet.

Drew Barrymore wearing Atelier Versace Fall 2009 one shoulder champagne gown with Lorraine Schwartz jewels and Roger Vivier clutch.

Chloe Sevigny in Spring 2010 Valentino rose colored gown.  Buccellati jewels and a Roger Vivier clutch complete the look.

Marion Cotillard dressed in Spring 2010 Christian Dior green high slit gown.  Sandals are Jimmy Choo ‘Drake’ and Chopard jewels complete her look.

Diane Kruger is pretty in pink wearing Spring 2009 Christian Lacroix Haute Couture, Chanel jewels and carrying a white Raven Kauffman Couture clutch.

Courteney Cox dressed in a black strapless dress from Victoria Beckham’s Spring 2010 collection and a black Jimmy Choo ‘Tube’ clutch.

Christina Hendricks wearing a custom gown from Project Runway winner Christian Siriano’s Spring 2010 collection.  She carried a Christian Loubuotin ‘Kephron’ silver clutch and jewelry by Loree Rodkin.

CELEBRITY PHOTO CREDIT:  AP

RUNWAY PHOTO CREDIT: STYLE.COM.

Who was your favorite? Who was a hit and who was a miss?         ….COMMENT BELOW

In Paris Karl Lagerfeld staged a barnyard with milkmaids at the Chanel Spring 2010 runway show.  The Spring/Summer 2010 ad campaign is quite different. Shot on location in Argentina by Karl Lagerfeld himself in October the campaign offers a latin flair.  Supermodel Claudia Schiffer joins with models Freja Beha Erichsen and Baptiste Giabiconi in Buenos Aires to tell the story of latin lovers and their passion.

This next photo shows Schiffer in a black lace dress, quilted Chanel purse and a gorgeous gaucho hat looking shy and seductive.

RELATED ARTICLES:

PARIS FASHION WEEK: KARL TAKES A ROLL IN THE HAY

LET CHANEL TATTOO YOU THIS SPRING

Exactly one month from today the tents will open for business.  Mercedes-Benz NY Fashion Week runs from February 11 – 18th showing the Fall 2010 designer collections. This will be the final season showing at Bryant Park. In September 2010, Fashion Week will move to its new uptown venue at Lincoln Center. This season there are 79 shows scheduled — six more than last year.

Many of the same designers will be returning. Expect to see Diane Von Furstenberg (President of the CFDA), Isaac Mizrahi, Badgley Mischka, BCBG Max Azria, Carolina Herrera, Donna Karan and Ralph Lauren just to name a few.

There will also be 5 multi-designer shows. The Heart Truth will start the week showing on Thursday, Feb. 11th at 7pm in the TENT. This year Project Runway has moved to a new day and time showing on Friday, Feb. 12th at 10am also at the TENT. The finalists of the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation who were just recently announced will have their own show on Monday, Feb. 15th at 6pm.

Title sponsor Mercedes-Benz is joined by DHL, American Express®, Maybelline New York, W Hotels Worldwide, TRESemmé, The Heart Truth Campaign, Starbucks Frappuccino® Coffee Drink, Peroni, Chambord, Martini Gold Mixers and O.N.E.™ One Natural Experience as well as the following media outlets The New York Times, Vevant, Women’s Wear Daily and Getty Images.

To view and print the full schedule click here….

We saw them on the Runway for Spring 2010 at shows like Rodarte and Jean Paul Gaultier. Models sporting body ink as ornamentation. Now Chanel is preparing to package and sell their runway inspired tattoos starting March 1st.

Tattoos are the new “must have” accessory for Spring. Best part?  They are temporary and painless so explore and be creative.

These Chanel limited edition designs are based on the temporary tattoos that creative director Peter Philips designed for the Paris runway show. They are called Les Trompe L’Oeil de CHANEL Temporary Skin Art and will be sold in packages of five sheets containing 55 designs. They will retail for £49 ( $75.00) and can be purchased at Chanel.com or at Selfridges counter.

Now you can own Chanel for under $100.

By now you may have heard of Rodarte due to their current clothing collaboration with Target.  2 Sisters, Kate and Laura Mulleavy, are the designers behind the always creative label RODARTE which was founded in Pasadena, California in the year 2005.  In addition to their diffusion line at Target the brand is carried globally by more than 40 premium retailers.  Some of these include Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Barneys and Nordstroms.

Rodarte has also been featured on more than 20 magazine covers including Vogue, the bible of fashion.  Celebrity figures have been spotted in Rodarte and added to the label’s couture status.

L/STUDIO has gone behind the scenes to discuss the creative process and inspiration behind the FALL 2008 collection with both Kate and Laura.  You may find the inspiration a bit surprising: Asian Horror Films…

RELATED ARTICLES:

TRIBAL WARRIORS: RODARTE S/S 2010 FASHION SHOW

]]> http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2009/12/27/designer-rodarte-discusses-the-creative-process-and-inspiration/feed 0 http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2009/12/16/project-runway-season-7-designers-are-announced http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/2009/12/16/project-runway-season-7-designers-are-announced#comments Thu, 17 Dec 2009 03:15:41 +0000 Sheryl Blasnik http://fashiondevelopmentgroup.com/?p=871

Project Runway Season 7 Designers

Despite the fact that the winner of Project Runway Season 6, Irina Shabayeva, just shot her spread for Marie Claire Magazine, Lifetime TV has announced the new cast of Designers lined up to compete for the title of “America’s Next Top Designer” on Season 7 of PROJECT RUNWAY.

Set to air on Thursday, January 14, 2010 at 10 pm et/pt on Lifetime TV this season will showcase the talent of 8 females and 8 male designers who will live at the Atlas apartments in NYC and return to the workroom at Parsons.  Heidi Klum will host again along with mentor Tim Gunn.

The youngest designer, Jesus Estrada, is 21 years old and a freelance designer.  He lives in Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico.  The most senior member is 47 year old Pamela Ptak.  Pamela is a full-time fashion designer & part-time college fashion design instructor from Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

To read all the designers bios and check out their portfolios visit the Project Runway Designer page on Lifetime TV.

MODELS OF THE RUNWAY will also return at 11:00PM ET/PT, beginning January 14, 2010.

Mercedes-Benz NY Fashion Week Fall 2010 Collections will be shown from February 11-18, 2010 at Bryant Park.  This is the final season showing at Bryant Park.  The Spring collections will move to Lincoln Center in September 2010.

And the Winner is…. IRINA SHABAYEVA!

On the Season 6 finale of Project Runway Irena’s all black cohesive collection inspired by the NY “Warrior Woman” was chosen by 4 judges to be the best. The judges included Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors and guest judge Suzy Menkes (International Herald Tribune Critic).

Althea’s collection, which was inspired by Sci-Fi movies of the ’50s and ’60s, and had a futuristic feel never quite reached the future according to the judges. She was praised for her ability to translate the street into RTW fashion.

Carol Hannah, who credits gothic architecture and fairytales for her inspiration, was auf’d because the judges did not see the “thread” between the pieces in her collection.

Irina who lives in NY leaves with a cash prize of $100,000 to start her own line, an editorial in Marie Claire Magazine and an all-expense-paid trip for two to Paris.

Kalyn Hemphill of NY was the winning Model and also received a $25,000 cash prize from L’Oreal and a spread in Marie Claire Magazine.

Who do you think should have won the title of America’s Next Great Designer? Do you think the judges got it right?    COMMENT…

Season 7 of Project Runway will return to NYC and will air the first episode on January 14th, 2010 on Lifetime.

To see a recap of Irina’s runway show view the video:

To read Irina’s bio and see all her collections to date visit her website.

[nggallery id=2]

On Thursday, November 19th, 2009 the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was taped at the Lexington Armory in New York City.

The pink carpet arrivals included such star studded talent as Michelle Trachtenberg, Dr. Dre, Singer Keri Hilson, Fergie, Costume Designer Patricia Field and Singer Adrienne Bailon. The pink carpet was streamed live on the web by Modelinia. Heidi Klum hosted the show.

The night opened with a spectacular performance by musical guest Fergie and the Black Eyed Peas.

The models then strutted their stuff on the wings of love while the audience watched in awe. Even Heidi Klum who just gave birth to a baby girl last month delighted the audience as she took to the catwalk.

Angel Marisa Miller was the highlight of the night as she walked the runway in a 3 million dollar fantasy bra studded with over 150 carats of diamonds.

The models were given pink and white striped robes to wear backstage. The robes will be in stores starting Friday.

Which Angel wore it best? Comment…

Watch behind-the-scenes video of model fittings for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show

The official show airs December 1st at 10pm est on CBS. For further information click here.

Photos: AP