FOR DEDICATED BEAUTY, SPORTS, and MUSIC TYPES
Words, Show Images Judith Ecochard
Other Images Courtesy of Deisgners
We attended a bunch of Holiday Fairs/tradeshows with small to large companies putting out the merch.
For the music lover, LYRIC CULTURE, a clothing company (see our write-up for the 411) that magically interprets our fav song lyrics ( Disco- Beatles- Jimmy Hendrix etc)---into eye catching graphics---has a new jewelry line to go with the on trend tees, hoodies, scarves and belt buckles.
As with the garments, the licensed lyrics are strikingly re-interpreted---this time on all metal and metal/leather cuffs, charm bracelets, rings and cool guitar pick necklaces for men and women. A terrific way to send out the timely message: “All You Need Is Love,” “Give Peace A Chance,” or “Satisfaction.”
INFO: Prices Range from $36-$85 LYRIC CULTURE
For the Neptunes and Mermaids in your life, marine botanicals and minerals that work will surely be welcome.
DEPTH (Live Beneath The Surface) is a fairly new skin/hair care line loaded with hydrating sea worthy ingredients, essential oils, and certified organic aloe vera that moisturize and soothe without parabens.
The hand and body lotions (we found online for $9.99)…come in transporting aromas like Bay Coconut and Mangrove Citrus that smell like the exotic tropical paradises we're hoping to visit someday.
PLUS: Hypo-allergenic, 100% Vegetarian, No Animal Testing. The cool packaging that's in the shape of small air bubbles on kelp…is made from 50% recycled materials. Available at Whole Foods, online at Drugstore.com
INFO: DEPTH BODY
The Dead Sea is a top spot for divers and spa lovers.
For beauty goodies, ONE WITH NATURE captures the therapeutic elements of Dead Sea minerals and combines them with moisturizing shea butter in a bath bar (DEAD SEA SALT SOAP) that cleans AND relaxes muscles ($4.49).
What we also like about this company is its MO--- dedicated to conservation in the Middle East. 
For idiot proof presents…the Gift Basket Sampler is a way to test out the other curative and natural (no artificial anything) products. The $39.99 price gets a full size Dead Sea lotion, body wash and hand wash, as well as 3 full sizes bar soaps and three travel size bars---in a reusable basket.
INFO: ONE WITH NATURE
WEN® ‘s quip “changing the world one head at a time…” is serious. Founded by Chaz Dean, the mission is to make lustrous locks for all with healing, detergent-free (NO sodium laurel/laurel sulfates) hair care products.
WEN® cleanses our locks with natural ingredients and botanicals…without the lather (we don’t miss it) and nasty stripping agents---- and apparently strengthens/hydrates it with one pump enabled product- a Cleansing Conditioner. Available in Sweet Almond for all hair types, including pets….Tea Tree (stimulates and rejuvenates dry scalps), Fig (medium to coarse, wavy to curly, and ethnic hair), Cucumber Aloe (oily scalps/dry hair), and Lavender (our fav---so moisturizing)---
PLUS: Leaves hair smelling really great…as essential oils provide the fragrance. 
YOU TUBE VIDEO: INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO
INFO: on the Cleansing Conditioner ($28 for 16 oz up to $186 for a gallon jug) and other WEN products CHAZ DEAN
During New York Fashion Week, we had a makeover by the team of hair stylists and makeup artists (yes, it ‘took a village’) from the DEX New York Salon. (224 West 30th Street, NYC - T 212 643-3188). Short of a visit to the premises on the edge of the garment district where “the person off the street can go in and get the same kind of treatment as a celebrity,” there's portable help.
Love the line of cleverly packaged mineral cosmetic Beauty Portfolios especially the eyeshadows, blushes, foundation-in the City Hipster ($175). Recreate the glam for you and yours with refillable palettes that are customized specially for the intended.
Additionally, the foundations are SPF 20, and have anti aging pepides, that heal and protect. And the buildable coverage---in the loose and pressed pigmentations…equal= all easy to apply.
PLUS: the saturated, ‘true’ colors allow for a flawless finish…and the goodies are naturally preserved…so no waste/worry either. 
INFO: DEX MINERAL MAKEUP
At a fun Girl’s Night Out put together by KMR Communcations, we were completely taken with a line of tees and tote bags designed by the women of JANE WAYNE…the original company of active duty military wives.
Feminine apparel emblazoned with the branches of the military (Navy, Marines, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard) fits our patriotic pride leanings without compromising on our fashionista requirements.
PLUS: Totes come in handy sizes…in camo print, of course.
INFO: JANE WAYNE GEAR
Remember the elegant ne plus ultra of men’s pajamas…the luxury brand Sulka? A new family run company, BIRDS OF SAUSALITO, recaptures the best fitting and comfortable experience via it’s silky smooth, 100% pima cotton, hand sewn pajamas and boxers. 
Fine details like single stitch sewing, mother-of-pearl buttons, and styles--- makes these undergarments, worthy gifts for that extra special guy. 
INFO: Store Locater and E-Commerce BIRDS OF SAUSALITO
Colorful graphics on undergarments for guys and gals come in the huge collection that bears the name of the pop star/tennis star BJORN BORG. We got the sneak peak of the Spring 2010 that came in five lines …
Fun (prints, hand drawn patterns), Sport (vibrant colors in super comfy styles for an active lifestyle), Original, (classic and clean), Neat (feminine styles, light materials), and Love All (made from breathable microfiber is pop colors).
THINK: Appreciated Stocking Stuffers.
INFO: BJORN BORG
MAIDENFORM, a tried and true undergarment label has given gals a new line of shape wear that’s so fashionable and functionable…we wore the tank top to the gym.
FLEXEES® Fat Free Dressing™ is a collection that “secretly slims, shapes and smoothes…”
The secret ingredient, and we do mean secret, are the hidden microfiber liners embedded in breathable Supplex fabric basics--- offering comfortable, not constricting support where some ladies need it…
But we think the styles, including tees, boy shorts, body briefers, and camisoles…are nice enough to wear on their own.
INFO: MSRPs $26-$54... MAIDENFORM
We come from a family of pro basketball players…and can think of no presents that’ll be a slam dunk sure thing--- better than an NBA jersey...or anything. According to the reps at the Product n Press Fair we attended, the “Kobe shirt is #1.” 
New for this year is the soccer style, short sleeve shirt…and a series of NBA4Her tees, hoodies, and jerseys for gals’ curvy silhouettes.
For the collector…old banners are recycled into cool, one of a kind, accessories…
PLUS: Visit the NBA store or website for customized action wear.
For the homebody, a “middle American friendly” book, “FLOWERS FOR THE HOME” by Grayson Handy and Tracey Zabar, is chock full of user friendly ideas. Lavishly illustrated this tome is worthy of coffee table status. But the cultural inspirations that are translated into practical and affordable décor tips ---in color palette suggestions and flowers---make it a handy reference book as well.
INFO: RIZZOLI USA 
We know many people who skip the people…and shop for their pets exclusively. Well for the pampered pooch who has everything we suggest celebrating the season by sending adorable holiday cards from the American Humane Association, a non-proft with a mission—“to prevent cruelty, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of children and animals and to assure that their interests and well-being are fully, effectively, and humanely guaranteed by an aware and caring society.”
PLUS: personalization, address labels and giving to a great cause.
INFO: AMERICAN HUMANE.org
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
GIFTS FOR AN "A+" HOLIDAY---
Monday, November 23, 2009
VOLCOM: GIVE JEANS A CHANCE
WHAT IT TAKES TO CLEAN OUT OUR CLOSETS!!!!
Teaming up with the National Coalition for the Homeless, Volcom is issuing a call to action to give jeans a second chance—bring your unwanted, ill-fitting, last season’s denim to a participating local store and help those in need. If you donate a pair of jeans, you are automatically entered to win a year supply of Volcom Brand Jeans.
INFO: VOLCOM- GIVE JEANS A CHANCE
Hear John Lennon singing---as well as store list/details
COVER FX: NEW CAMOUFLAGE CONCEALER and TOTAL COVERAGE CREAM FOUNDATION
SPECIALLY FORMULATED SKIN CARE COSMETICS THAT CONCEAL & CORRECT
Cover Fx, a cosmetic brand that was founded 15 years ago by Lee Graff ---a Canadian health care worker inspired by patients afflicted with skin diseases and burns---who all wanted/needed corrective foundation with a natural finish…
Has come a long way since we reviewed them as part of The Makeup Show.
What’s New:
The Camouflage Concealer ($25) is an instant flaw eraser that went on smoothly when we tried the kinda thick liquid (not thick cream) to our under eye area.
As billed, the opaque concealer was lightweight in feel, not heavy and perked up our appearance. We only needed one swipe though build-able coverage is do-able if needed...for scars, tatoos etc.
The color we tried, “Light”---easily blended with our complexion.
Unlike thicker under eye creams and sticks that regularly garner Best Beauty Awards, we think the silky texture of the Camouflage Concealer is noticeably better ---more tranparent…it glides on, not sinks in…so in a few hours, our fine lines weren’t emphasized. Our experience with heavier formulas is that they sink in and are like arrows pointing to a wrinkle.
No wonder HD Television types like this product.
Plus: Packed with “potent, skin-loving ingredients such as Ceramides Plus, Comfot Complex, MultiPeptide Complex and Vitamins F, A, C, E” that protect the skin too.
In six tones that cover a wide spectrum of tones:
Conceal FX Shade Ideal for Foundation Shade Range
X-Light 0-20
Light 20-40
Light-Medium 40-60
Medium 60-90
Deep B0 - 25
X-Deep B25-65
.
The Total Coverage Cream Foundation,( $42) that comes in a handy compact with a mirror and sponge…was perfect for our needs.
Meaning, UVA/UVB sun protection (SPF 30)…and in a medium coverage that lasts. We used it for the first time on a day long hike…and went straight out to dinner afterwards with barely any touch ups needed.
In our city life, we tried the easily matched our skin tone foundation over an oil free primer we had for a more translucent “set” finish. And like before, our tone was evened out, completely blotch free.
Apparently, the foundation is formulated for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin…but we think super super oilier types might prefer another foundation.
PLUS: Fragrance free, non-comedogenic, the Total Coverage Cream Foundation with “encapsulated pigments” can cover up bruises or tattoos too…with a heavier application.
HINT: A light sweep of powder on our T zones on top of the Total Coverage Cream Foundation helps with the shine.
AVAILABLE: Widely online and at brick and mortar outlets like Sephora & Nordstrom’s.
INFO: COVER FX
Custo Barcelona, Silvia Tcherassi and Min Agostini: SPRING 2010 RTW
ASI MARKETING SHOWROOM, OPEN HOUSE-Soho, NYC
Words, Showroom Images Judith Ecochard,
Runway Images Courtesy of ASI Marketing
It’s always a party at a Custo Barcelona RTW show.
Including the runway romp we saw in Berlin ---exhuberantly colorful, young trendy garb from the LOWLUXRY line…
The New York show, dubbed “Air Show” had different attire…we think what was shown in the Big Apple was slightly more sophisticated ensembles--- made from deluxe fabrics...certainly more detailed.
A follow up showroom visit to ASI MARKETING that reps the label in the USA…allowed us to see how incredible the materials used are and the intricate hand finished details looked blurry from where we were sitting for New York Fashion Week.
It reminded us in a lot of ways of Christian Lacroix with ornate touches that are hand applied…not haphazardly sewn on like lesser made, mass produced clothes.
Custo is also a lablel (duh) very European/international, humoresque feel…anyone that has been to Spain knows “they” dress with more flair over there...
The creative vision of Custo Barcelona, (and co-owner with his brother, David), Custo Dalmau “built around the concepts of movement and lightness” for Spring 2010.
Transparent fabrics with intricate details ---and we mean lot’s of fringes, feathers, embroideries etc. and very bold graphics are transporting. The luxe boho long dresses with matching handbag, a fab lace blazer with a crafty hem, a classic black trench with beaded wide lapel, a silk gathered mini with a gold beaded hem--- are for women not afraid to be noticed and tired of the boring basics.
Such fabulous swirls of colors are rare to see in this economic environment where most fashion labels seem to stick to the more safe solid hues and tailored pieces.
The kaleidoscopic nature of these items does not mean unwearable…our bench mark…we can wear all the separates (fab jackets, tops) with our uniform-a pair of jeans and heels. Or a skirt with a simple tanks and flat sandals. 
ADDED PLUS: Kickers that make the outfit!
INFO: CUSTO BARCELONA
Also at the ASI Marketing open house were two new to us designers: the Colombian born fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi and Min Agostini---who hails from Argentina.
But women create garments that straddle the ‘clothes as works of art’ category.
For Tcherassi, the cascading ruffles-like delicate flower petals--- on luxury fabrics (silk) are feminine in a collection of glam wear--- mixed casual separates and dresses--- .
And we are sure, priced accordingly.
No wonder the prêt a porter collection has shown in Paris and Milan.
This Renaissance woman also has a line of accessories, a bridal collection---and adds a new hotel collection to her calling card.
SILVIA TCHERASSI
We were thinking Issey Miyaki Pleats Please label …as soon as our eyeballs landed on Jazmin “Min” Agonisti’s collection. Silk fabrics in intricate manipulations---are a common thread in an elegant collection of architecturally shaped attire.
Hint: the clothes need to be tried on…as a hangar on the rack hides the structural beauty of the flattering silhouettes. 
The palette of solid black or white are perfect as the intricate textiles are best appreciated without distraction. No surprise, Agonisti trained as an architect in her native Argentina. 
At first glance, the dresses conjure up swank cocktail hours…but we think one can layer most of these frock over long sleeve top or wear under a shrug or long cardigan, and accessorize with belts and boots/pumps…for a polished daytime look.
Chic
Saturday, November 21, 2009
COLLABORATING FOR A CURE: SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION
One of the Big Apple’s favorite fundraisers, the Annual Collaborating For a Cure Dinner and Auction that benefits the Institute Without Walls®, the worldwide collaborative cancer research program supported by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF)…took place this past Wednesday night (November 18th, 2009).
Held at the glorious NYC landmark-the Park Avenue Armory, the night began with a jam packed cocktail hour prior to the main event.
One of Three Very Well Attended Bars-No Waiting!!!
We had a chance to chat with JJ Mautner, a Board member and interim President of SWCRF. In addition to the latest advances in science that the Institute Without Walls is generating, Mautner told us he’s most proud of “putting the evening together,” the twelth one.
JJ and Jill Mautner
Here’s why…
The evening had envy overdose silent auction items like--- dinner for someone and their five BFFs at the impossible to get into to RAO’s---($16,500!!!)…
… and live auction items like four pairs of tickets to the impossible to get into Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show ($125,000)… and a glam once-in-a-lifetime Caribbean Island cruise for six days/five nights on the luxurious 133-foot custom yacht M/Y Serque ($95,000).
No surprise really, but top Sotheby’s auctioneer Hugh Hildesley was masterful--- enticing the crowd to bid on…and on. 
We were most impressed with the $11,000 that secured an adorable golden retriever puppy.
A winner!
Bottom Line: $4.2 million was raised for this worthy 501 (c)(3).
Renaissance man Peter Tunney helping out with his "Don't Panic" work of art (and donating his take to the cause. Nice).
WE MET:
The congenial and obviously brilliant Ethan Dmitrovsky, a Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology and of Medicine
American Cancer Society Clinical Research Professor at Dartmouth Medical.
Even us physics for poets types could appreciate Dr. Dmitrovsky’s excitement and dedication to furthering along the breakthroughs--- and meeting the challenges of--- educating and treating people at risk for/suffering from lung cancer.
That list increasingly includes women, former and non-smokers.
Indeed, our brief chat with the man of the hour, Dr. Samuel Waxman, touched on his most “proud moment” this year…successfully treating a woman diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. 
This patient’s first person recall of her ordeal on the road to wellness, as well as three other cancer sufferers- was the subject of a well produced and heartfelt video--- that was shown later on that night.
Their All Reved Up And Ready To Go
WHAT ELSE:
Michael Nierenberg, Chairman of the Board, can add Top Host to his resumé…as he did an amazing job. 
In addition to thanking everyone for coming, (1100 people!)…he recalled how his former employer, the financial firm Bear Stern’s strongly “encouraged” employees to get “involved” with worthy non-profits. Nierenberg- amusingly related how the first SWCRF fundraiser was held at the Rainbow Room, with entertainment by guitarist Warren Hayes (Gov’t Mule, Allman Bros…Duane’s part).
“I was afraid to ask for money then…and now I am not afraid to ask for money.”
That’s progress. As is not having Chevy Chase as host IMHO.
PLUS:
Clearly this man is very popular: as he and the Mrs.Elin Nierenberg will need an airplane hangar to host the many more than happy fork over $2000/couple--- to the Italian Wine Merchants' provided wine tasting and dinner. 
CODA:
A private concert by Grammy award winner Steve Winwood and his band----who jammed on those forever wonderful Traffic tunes including extended jams from John Barleycorn, Low Spark of High Heeled Boys, and Blind Faith’s Can’t Find My Way Home. 
Naturally the classic Gimme Some Lovin’ got the crowd dancing.
We left just as the breakout band Lost Trailers- wailed out a credibly sharp version of Whipping Post.
But there were plenty of folks rockin’ on.
MISSION:
"...to develop therapies to reverse abnormal cancer cell behaviour and establish normal function to eradicate cancer selectively, working through a uniquely organized network...
INFO: SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION 
Jean Shafiroff, Philanthropist---"My dad was (successfully!) treated by Samuel Waxman..."
Words, Images J. Ecochard
LONDON CALLING... COLLABORATION BETWEEN GARETH PUGH, NICK KNIGHT AND SHOWstudio SHOP
Gareth Pugh
IN OUR INBOX...
The next exciting step in the development of SHOWstudio SHOP as one of London’s landmark fashion locations will be launched this week at the Bruton Place store in Mayfair with long-term SHOWstudio.com collaborator Gareth Pugh.
The first in a series of exclusive events, SHOWstudio SHOP welcomes Pugh as he sets up a temporary work place in the studio space at 1-9 Bruton Place, and handcrafts a one of a kind garment exclusively for SHOWstudio SHOP. Offering the unprecedented opportunity for viewers to witness this innovative and award-winning British designer at work, the SHOWstudio.com webcams will record every moment as Pugh creates a
unique garment that will be retailed in the SHOWstudio SHOP alongside three exclusive one-off prints by world-renowned photographer Sølve Sundsbø
This project pushes the boundaries of fashion presentation and retail via the internet, unifying the designer, the medium and the consumer ever closer within the groundbreaking environment of the SHOP.
Gareth Pugh will be in residence 20, 23 and 24 November 2009 at SHOWstudio SHOP. The final garment will be exclusively photographed by Nick Knight on 24 November in the SHOWstudio SHOP studio at Bruton Place.
Garment design and construction by Gareth Pugh
Angelskin Fabric Supplied by >C H R I S A N N E couture
COOL.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
FURLA SPRING SUMMER 2010 COLLECTION
Grana Marte Textured Leather-Vetiver Blue
Matt Python
CORE COLLECTION of HANDBAGS, SHOES, ACCESSORIES and the FURLA
TALENT HUB
727 Madison Avenue, NYC
Words, Images by Judith Ecochard
Perforated Leathers -Sabbia Grey
Furla ia a high end accessories/satchels line that emanates from those leather design geniuses across the Pond…the Italians.
The S/S 2010 preview was spot on for all the things Furla is know for…understated, innovative elegance and a few more fashion forward styles with a modern twist…
This outing had plenty we liked…and to quote the press lit…
“Feminine, thoughtful and refined shapes characterized by strong colors and a touch of funky yet captivating style…” 
The EVOLVE haulers take a page from Nature---with animal and python prints, and multi-print calf leather.
The solid colored handbags in hobos, clutches, totes are in soft pastels ( Petal Rose, Sand, White Cotton) …and bold tones…love the green. 
Hardware is a vintage satin finish.
Furla also entices hipster types…with the IMAGINEER assortment of bags.
80’s inspiration comes through in pop colors like Patchouli Orange, Red Cherry, and Mimosa Yellow.
And prints take center stage--- with bright python leather and artful graphics.
We also like the sheen on this upscale take on woven leather.
Lots of zippers and pockets for all our gadgets too.
Coral Python Printed Calf Leather & Soft Vegetal Calf Leather-a Staff favorite.
Furla also has a focused collection of sandals and polished costume jewelry. We love the thick, gold grommet ankle straps of these Avena light brown/coffee brown nappa leather sandals.
More delicate flats---with pretty flower shape ruffles…paired with a matching scarf in Mediterranean blue.
Caged Sandals in Metallic Leather...
FURLA TALENT HUB:
Leitmotiv -Light Multi-Color Printed Tote of Treated Canvas
“Offering a platform of visibility to young designers…” this year’s S/S 2010 lineup includes selections from talents Bruno Laurenzano, Fabio Sasso and Juan Caro (Leitmotiv), and Silvio Betterelli.
Laurenzano, based in Milan…was on hand for the preview. We got to chat with him about his 70‘s glam inspirations…where he channeled American fashion icons such as Halston and Andy Warhol’s legendary Factory for his terrific collection of clutches and handbags.
We love the clean lines with high end vintage touches such as cannetté linings. 
The color palette (Bordeux deep red, Old Rose, Turtle Dove grey) is retro as are the burnished clasps and rolled handles. 
And the flower and gathered seam details give the bags visual interest…
Washed goatskins, lizard prints and suede materials are in matte and gloss tones.
Think what Faye Dunaway would carry.
INFO: E-Commerce and Shop Locator FURLA USA
