Redken Creative Consultant Guido simply sleek Reed Krakoff Fall 2013

Redken Creative Consultant Guido sent the models at the Reed Krakoff Fall 2013 show down the runway this afternoon with clean, rich blow-outs that complemented the designer’s polished, well-cut collection in a variety of rich textured materials from cashmere to leather. 

“I didn’t want this blow dry to feel too fresh or perfect, I wanted it to feel a little old, like it might be on the second day. It’s straight, but still with the memory of the shape [made by blowing drying with a round brush], so it feels luxurious but not in an obviously luxurious way. It’s a minimal idea for hair. Reed Krakoff is a newer New York designer who creates very modern styles, so there’s not a larger conic reference, and this hairstyle is thus really for a woman of today, and is more about a feeling than it is about a set style.” -Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

Create the Look:

1. Wash hair using Diamond Oil shampoo and conditioner to start the style with clean, fresh hair.
2. Create a messy center part.
3. Section hair and blow-dry with a round brush, letting each section cool on the brush.
4. Guido then blow-dried the hair again quickly once done and added powder refresh 01 aerosol hair powder/dry shampoo to the lengths, to create a more “lived in” texture and a matte finish.

 

NYFW: Reem Acra 2013 Fall Couture collection

Traditional Japanese embroidery inspired the intricate red floral handwork on several dresses and gowns in the Reem Acra 2013 fall collection. Inspired by a recent trip to Japan and a series of fishnet-stocking photos by Daido Moriyama, his photos of women in fishnet stockings left an impression and influenced her. While difficult to use fishnet, Reem Acra made it almost seem luxurious.

Japanese embroidery inspired handwork; floral appliqués and delicate floral prints were everywhere. New to the collection was a very welcome surprise day-wear. Reem Acra increased this portion of her collection, which will undoubtedly increase her presence in the marketplace.  1950’s elegance reflected in her wool dress and evening coat. A personal favorite and one that elicited response from the crowd was, the red ombré goat-hair coat. Total wow factor. Of course for those that don’t like ombré, there were more subdued colors and color-blocks to choose from.

Reem Acra of course succeeds by showing a collection that included delicate beaded and embellished evening wear, bomber jackets, furry outerwear and wonderful kimono jackets.  Ms. Acra created this entire collection and still had time to help created a special ‘wedding gown’ for her dear friend and wedding colleague Preston Bailey for his marriage to Theo Blackman just 3 days later.

Glamorous, luxurious, subtle-sensuality, that is Reem Acra.  So what’s red, black, white and fishnet all over? A successful 2013 Fall collection by Reem Acra.

Fabrics for 2013 Collection: Tulle, twee, goat hair, silk crepe, nutria fur, wool, leather, and beaded embroidery.

Fall colors for 2013 Collection: Black, red, and ivory

NYFW: Jenny Packham Fall 2013 Couture Collection

Jenny Packham’s eveningwear collection was full of opulence and romance. Then again, what would you expect from one of the favorite designers to celebrities and the Duchess, Kate Middleton? Inspired by seventeenth-century Paris salons—”where strong-minded women met to discuss arts and culture”, Jenny Packham created a collection that showcased a line of relaxed gowns and new to her collection – separates.

What makes Jenny Packham notable is she has earned the reputation for simply stunning couture evening-wear, as well as gaining a following in her bridal collections. The reason why could be that her collections are wearable and exude modest sensuality. Some have asked Jenny Packham when she would create day clothes – you know traditional mass-market suits, pants and tops. Her reply was “We’ve found the more the niche you are, the better off you are” and she has cornered the market on British Glam. Nothing stuffy or stiff about this collection.

Highlighted yet not on full display were the Jenny Packham accessories collection of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and brooches with sculptural cut crystals, layered bracelets. Filled with strong angles and shining rose gold metal; angular alabaster mint and white cut stones added to a sculptural modern feel. These bold and three dimensional accessories were inspired from the influential women that gathered in the great intellectual salons of the 17^th century where away from the stifling protocols of the court, these women alone set the rules. Brides have been wearing some of these pieces for years and now, the mass-market has had their first really good look at them.

If you are looking to start your ‘statement’ collection’, start here.  If you’re looking for a beautiful dress coat that will take you from season to season, start here.  If you are looking for something that will take their breath away, look no farther than Jenny Packham, the “Queen of Bling”.

Colors for 2013 Collection: White, ivory, bisque, opal, metallic blush salmon, peach, burnt orange, cinnamon, scarlet red, gold, steal blue, midnight blue, grey and black.

Fabrics for 2013 Collection: Silk, silk charmeuse, chiffon, tulle, knit, wool, metallic beading and crystals – lots of crystals

 

NYFW: Monique Lhuillier 2013 Couture collection

Monique Lhuillier continues to be a fashion powerhouse. After a well received Spring Collection, Bridal Market, the opening of her New York flagship store, shoe collection and launching a fine jewelry line, Monique has once again created a sexy and stunning 2013 couture collection. There simply is no stopping her.

Fall 2013 is inspired by opulence and drama.  This season plays off the movement of undulating lines, art deco motifs and intensely rich jewel tones such as deep malachite green, oxblood and amethyst.

For day, soft snow-like whites begin the story in three dimensional cable knits and move to abstract prints in burnished golden brocades.  Silhouettes range from sleekly tailored dresses and slim-cut trousers to ample color-blocked furs. Night is all about the dramatic.  Lace cigarette pants are shown with structured tulle overlay or a beaded duster and gowns have been shortened for a modern interpretation of evening.

This season, Lhuillier found inspiration in a piece of malachite. The gemstone’s deep green striations appeared at the end of the runway as the show opened with a series of winter white looks. Lhuillier said, “It’s kind of like stepping into heaven a little bit.”

A new length for Lhuillier, are gowns ending just above the ankle, a hemline the designer said “feels newer” (it’s also an ideal way to showcase her shoe collection).

The shoe collection (which is in it’s second season) features sleek geometric cut outs in suede leather crushed velvet and satin.  Signature lace is worked into a reinterpretation of the bootie. With many available in white, there will be well-heeled brides walking down the aisle in these.

Fabrics for Fall 2013: Knit, Crepe, fur, silk georgette, ostrich feathers, Sequin, tweed, deco-embroidered tulle and lace

Colors for Fall 2013: Bone, White, Malachite, Black, Copper, Gold, Red, Emerald, Garnet, Amarath, Pewter and Red

NYFW: Timo Weiland Fall 2013 Women’s Collection

 

Timo Weiland took several chances this season.  The first was to separate their men and women’s collection. The second was creating a woman’s collection that had a bit of an attitude. It’s pretty safe to say by the end of the show, their gamble paid off big time.

The Timo Weiland type of woman has been one of the ‘good girls’, the cheerleader, the A-student. It seems to me that she has now discovered her inner strength and it shows in her fresh sense of ‘toughness’.  From the oversized shearing lapels, to the quilted biker jacket, to the crowd pleaser black leather bomber jacket, this collection says I’m tough but still a girl.

It wasn’t just outerwear that was well received. The slouchy sweater with pencil skirt was a twist on work comfort. The pleated mini-dress and jockey hat says, “I’m confident, grown-up but don’t want my clothes to be too fussy.” Could this be the new dress code of casual Friday?

The shoes, Timo Weiland for TSUBO are a must have. The Timo Weiland collection reflects their personal aesthetic sensibilities and desire to spur a return to the art of dressing.  From flats, to booties, wedges and heeled-boots, the construction ensures comfort and fit. The styles and textures will be the focal point no matter what you wear.

Weiland and Eckstein said that they had been inspired by English Tudor houses, and imagining hip East London girls heading to the country for the weekend. I’d say that they have successfully brought the country to cities around the world.

Fabrics for Fall 2013: Leather, shearing, quilting, denim, chiffon, windowpane plaid, lace, tweed, quilting, mink fur, medallion print, composite fleece, striped, jersey, brocade, Tudor tapestry, crepe, fjord fur, Finn Raccoon fur and stretch mesh

Colors for Fall 2013: Forest, ivory, grey, black, chalk, navy, grey oxford, cranberry, plum, cream white, fatigue, beige and green

Shoes: http://www.tsubo.com

NYFW: Douglas Hannant Fall 2013 Collection

For the woman who wanted elegance with an occasional bit of drama the Douglas Hannant Fall 2013 collection is what you seek.  This season Mr. Hannant stripped away his usual dramatic flare and presented a collection with classic shift dresses, deep royal colors, suiting options all accentuated with fur, leather, a bit of sparkle or a combination of all.

Keeping the collection somewhat subdued, there was the occasional leather peplum waist detail or a piping down the back of the shift dress that reminding us that a bit of drama can co-exist happily with the simplest dress. What Hannant has done with this collection is to open the door of possibility to an entirely new group to discover his designs.

What is the key to Hannant’s collections no matter the season, he “loves a woman to look like a woman” and he continues to provide options beautifully. There was however, at least one dress that might have been a bit ‘fussy’ in the mix of color and texture.

In a season where so many designers wouldn’t dare be brave to use color, Hannant welcomes colors with his arms open wide. In a few cases the use of color may have been a bit for some, but being bold is what a Douglas Hannant woman is all about.  She fits well on the Upper East Side and just as well in the Meatpacking District.  The red gown was a showstopper and left the audience wanting more.

Fabrics for Fall 2013: Wool, leather, fur, silk crepe, nylon, and cotton.

Colors for Fall 2013: Sapphire blue, silver, ivory, ruby red, amethyst purple, jade, and onyx.

Watch NYFW LIVE….

 

 

I don’t remember a time when there wasn’t “interesting weather” during the February showings for NY Fashion Week.  The thing is, in the past, you had to slosh your way to either Bryant Park or now, Lincoln Center.  After hearing that the weather could be pretty difficult to deal with tomorrow and knowing that so many may not have access to attend, here is a list of shows that you WILL BE able to see from the comfort of your home (or office – shhhh).

Please remember that all of these shows are EST and while these are not all the shows, these are the ones that have agreed to have their show thus far.  For you happy brides, the ones in BOLD, I would highly recommend you view.  These designers are “ours” and you will see hints of what you may like see during Bridal Market OR others who just have dreamy dresses.

Enjoy and Happy New York Fashion Week.

 

Thursday, February 7

Nicholas K – 9:00 a.m.
Todd Snyder – 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
BCBG Max Azria – 10:00 a.m.
Richard Chai Love & Richard Chai Men’s – 11:00 a.m.
Timo Weiland Women’s – 1:00 p.m.
Tadashi Shoji – 2:00 p.m.
Candela – 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Sergio Davila – 5:00 p.m.
Concept Korea – 6:00 p.m.
Timo Weiland Men’s – 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Kenneth Cole – 7:00 p.m.

 

Friday, February 8

Czar by Cesar Galindo – 9:00 a.m.
Project Runway – 10:00 a.m.
Carmen Marc Valvo – 11:00 a.m.
Noon by Noor – 12:00 p.m.
Nautica – 2:00 p.m.
Monika Chiang – 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Cushnie et Ochs – 3:00 p.m.
Rebecca Minkoff – 3:00 p.m.
Nicole Miller – 6:00 p.m.
Charlotte Ronson – 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Academy of Art University – 8:00 p.m.
ParkChooMoo – 9:00 p.m.

 

Saturday, February 9

Ruffian – 9:00 a.m.
Marissa Webb – 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Lacoste – 10:00 a.m.
Jill Stuart – 11:00 a.m.
Son Jung Wan – 11:30 a.m.
Louise Goldin – 1:00 p.m.
Mara Hoffman – 2:00 p.m.
Rafael Cennamo – 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Herve Leger – 3:00 p.m.
Katya Leonovich – 4:00 p.m.
Alexandre Herchovitch – 6:00 p.m.
Alon Livine – 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Monique Lhuiller – 7:00 p.m.
Venexiana – 9:00 p.m.

 

Sunday, February 10

Nina Skarra – 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Lela Rose – 11:00 a.m.
Hood by Air Runway – 12:00 p.m.
Tracy Reese – 2:00 p.m.
Trina Turk – 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Custo Barcelona – 3:00 p.m.
Diane von Furstenburg – 4:00 p.m.
Joanna Mastroianni – 5:00 p.m.
Vivienne Tam – 5:00 p.m.
Patrik Ervell – 6:00 p.m.
David Tlale – 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Ralph Rucci – 8:00 p.m.
Emerson by Jackie Fraser-Swan – 9:00 p.m.

 

Monday, February 11

ICB by Prabal Gurung – 9:00 a.m.
Mathieu Mirano – 9:00 a.m.
Carolina Herrera – 10:00 a.m.
Pamella Roland – 1:00 p.m.
Ohne Titel – 1:00 p.m.
Hernan Lander – 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
KaufmanFranco – 3:00 p.m.
MM6 Maison Martin Margiela – 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Betsey Johnson – 5:00 p.m.
Reem Acra – 6:00 p.m.

 

Tuesday, February 12

J.Crew – 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Steven Alan – 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Badgley Mischka – 10:00 a.m.
Vera Wang – 11:00 a.m.
Jenny Packham – 1:00 p.m.
Adeam – 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Naeem Khan – 2:00 p.m.
Dennis Basso – 3:00 p.m.
Sophie Theallet – 5:00 p.m.
Vantan Tokyo – 7:00 p.m.
The Blonds – 9:30 a.m.

 

Wednesday, February 13

Bibhu Mohaparta – 9:00 a.m.
Brandon Sun – 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Michael Kors – 10:00 a.m.
Nanette Lepore – 11:00 a.m.
Rachel Zoe – 1:00 p.m.
Jeremy Scott – 1:00 p.m.
J. Mendel – 2:00 p.m.
Leather Japan – 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Milly by Michelle Smith – 3:00 p.m.
Falguni & Shane Peacock – 5:00 p.m.
Anna Sui – 6:00 p.m.
Clover Canyon – 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Zang Toi – 7:00 p.m.
Michael America – 8:00 p.m.

 

Thursday, February 14

Calvin Klein Men’s – 2:00 p.m.
Calvin Klein Women’s – 3:00 p.m.
Ch by Carolina Herrera – 7:00 p.m.