THE ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY spring 2009 runway show at Bryant Park

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Randy Brooke, Courtesy of Academy of Art University


ACADEMY OF ART has the distinction of being the ONLY fashion school that shows on the New York Runway. Each season, a handful of students are selected to showcase their designs to the fashion community of retailers and press. Also in the audience are prospective AAU students and their parents. Recently, the excitement level has escalated and the buzz in the air at this show was palpable.
The lucky students who got to come to New York and show their collections this year to a packed house that included Saks' Michael Fink and ANTM [America's Next Top Model] host, Nigel Barker in the front row. The varying aesthetics made for a great overall show mix.

WHO SHOWED

*Jamie Cole [her second time, this time as a solo act]
*Elena Akoulova
*Eric Tan and Karina Cordiale
*Tara Bradley
*Anne Jones & Michelle Clarke
*Daniel Emir Armosilla
*Desiree Daniels
*Ali Khan & Sook-Yeong Kwong
*Kara Laricks
*Johanna Hatzenbuehler
*Warot Subsrisunjai & Michael Feeney

As it's Jamie Cole's second time on the New York runways, we spent our backstage time chatting with her to find out how life was treating her after having been one of the three subjects on MTV TRUE LIFE I'M GOING TO FASHION WEEK.

ABOUT JAIME/BACKGROUND
Jaime is an AAU 2008 MFA Menswear and Textile Designer who was born in Meriden, CT and graduated from Lasell College (Newton, MA) BS in Fashion Design – 2004. She’s graduating this year from Academy [of Art University (San Francisco, CA)] with an MFA in Menswear and Textile Design.

Her motto: “Street art and style always have inspired me to make clothing.”

We’d met Jaime at a preview at the Flatotel in February 2008, 2 days before the AAU runway show at Bryant Park. At that time, we observed her backstage being filmed by MTV watching her watch the show which included a menswear collection she and textile designer, Young Jun Ryu, collaborated on. Upon graduating, Young accepted the job as a textile designer for GM [General Motors] he told us he was considering when we interviewed him at the Flatotel.

SIX MONTHS LATER, at the spring 2009 shows,
Jaime presented her own menswear collection inspired by street art and music. Influences of primitive art of the Northwest Indians are shown through her textile designs and the totem pole shape in her silhouette. Her 6-piece collection was sponsored by Cone Denim. Pieces ranged from a white printed cotton poncho and pant to a white cotton tank and over-dyed cotton pant.

This time, when we spoke with Jaime, it was in a more relaxed setting, as there weren't MTV camera crew video-ing every word.
LYRA MAG: You looked great on MTV, you have real on-camera presence.

JAIME: Thanks, after a while, I just forgot they were there. It was easier in a way, because I was still in school and not facing the pressure of looking for a job, as I am now since I’m graduating this year. In a way, it mattered less.

LYRA MAG: It’s been 6 months since that AAU show in New York and about that long since the MTV episode aired. What we all want to know – has it changed your life?

JAMIE: Yes and no. Yes in that friends call me all the time and say, “Omigod, I saw you on MTV!” No, in that it hasn’t landed me a hard job offer, but it has stirred-up some interest.

LYRA MAG: That’s kind of disappointing, the job part, but it can’t have hurt to have done the show.

JAIME: Yeah, it all helps, everything like this you do that tells people you’re out there is a plus.


ENDNOTES: THE FUTURE, WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

HERE'S WHERE SOME OF THE ASPIRING DESIGNERS ENDED-UP:
ELENA AKOULOVA - her linen dresses were a hit with Michael Fink, VP Women's Fashion Director of Saks Fifth Avenue. Mr. Fink wants to keep in touch when she eventually goes into production.

TARA BRADLEY - is fulltime at Catherine Malandrino

MICHELLE CLARK - is currently doing an internship with Diane Von Furstenberg and will be on staff fulltime at Abercrombie & Fitch in January. She is the textile designer for the melted mylar pieces in the collaborative collection with Anne Jones.

MIKE FEENEY'S acrylic shoulder piece from April SF show is worn by Lady Gaga in her "Poker Face" video. Mike's acrylic accessories for WAROT SUBSRISUNJAI in the NY Show.

To read more about Academy of Art, visit www.academyart.edu

BO VAN MELSKENS=SPRING 2009

A STORY TELLING FASHION COLLECTION OF “LOVE, HOPE, HARMONY”

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images Courtesy of the Designer


Our July jaunt to experience the sizzling fashion/art/music scene in Berlin, Germany was an eye- popping experience. The city was buzzing with new talent nutured by 11 major fashion schools, government subsidies, and a copious amount of cheap (relatively speaking) rents…particularly in areas that used to be behind the Wall.

One collection we didn’t see in person…but will make a note to for sure…is the Berlin based women’s label, Bo Van Melskens, designed by the Danish Sarah Elbo. The fairly newish fashion brand takes summery cues from Jeanne Moreau in The Lovers and Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face-with one posh “Designer Dress” (instead of a multi-piece assortment) - that shows off a gal’s curves.




We think the fitted seamed bodice with flattering knee length, full skirt silhouette hits the right note between a vintage frock and 21st century outfit.

Fetching and FUN.

What also works: the deep neckline that show off the elegant and sensuous collarbone---a style that works on ladies of all sizes.

The “Designer Dress” comes in five versions of either fine silk or 100% cotton---in a neutral color palette of black, grays and white. Our fav is the light silver one decorated with silver fabric flowers.

PLUS: A touch of the homespun permeates each piece…all customized with 50 years old cotton strips of fabrics incorporated into each dress…fabrics courtesy of Elbo’s patchwork specialist Grandmother.









RETAIL: In Europe…and if we’re lucky, we can see the unique mobile “black box” show- deliverable on request - complete with a special soundtrack…on our return trip.

BO VAN MELSKENS

The Tulle & Cloth Logic Adore Vintage spring 2009 fashion show

Text, Casi Densmore-Koon
Edited by Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Dan Lecca, courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

TIME & PLACE: October 16th @ 4pm,
LA Fashion Week at Smash box, Studios, the spring 2009 collection.
The tulle women's collection was conceived by design duo JENNIFER SMITH and AMOUSHKA SCOTT. The women were brought together by the desire to preserve past trends and by their love of travel.
WHAT THEY SHOWED: pants, tops, skirts and dresses, outwear & chic separates.
DESIGN INSPIRATIONS
Vintage fashion, flowers, architecture, as well as indie art shows and local boutiques.

THE DESIGNER INTERVIEW
LYRA MAG: Can you tell us a little bit about your inspiration for the Spring 2009 Collection?

TULLE: We were inspired by images of vintage bicycles, boats, and the idea of spring fever and love at first sight.

CLOTH LOGIC: It was inspired in part by launch of Cloth Logic and Spring fever in the Ivy League school campus of Boston. I was really taken back by a picture I saw of a couple walking, holding hands through a Boston school campus after a spring rain. In the background architectural elements of the old brick, ornately detailed buildings were so rich with hues of wet red brick and deep grays, the blue sky, with slight passing gray clouds and the lush green of new grass and blooming green and brown buds of trees waking from a winter sleep. I incorporated all those colors into this collection.The blue and deep taupe gray I used on preppy bodies of hooded windbreakers and waterproof poplin trenches and baracuda jackets, again with striped accents under collar and pockets. I used cool vintage geometric prints for the linings.

LYRA MAG: What can we look forward to in this collection? Who do you see wearing it?

TULLE: We are known for our bold usage of color and vintage inspired aesthetic. For spring 09, we brought a modern edge to the collection with pops of orange, yellow, fuchsia, and teal. We loved the high waist for short, flirty skirts, tulip and paper bag shapes, and cropped stovepipe pants.
The Tulle girl is confident, intelligent and creative. She expresses herself through her own personal style. She appreciates quality and detail, but doesn't necessarily want to spend a fortune to get what she wants.

CLOTH LOGIC: We're targeting a young creative professional, age ranging between 18-30.
The Cloth Logic guy likes and appreciates good design and is attentive to details, but does not have a lot of money to buy expensive clothes. OUR retail prices range between $50-$80.00 for sweaters and $65-$110.00 for jackets. To give you an example our woolen coats retail for $130.00

LYRA MAG: What influenced you to bring in menswear to the collection?

TULLE: Men deserve to express themselves through clothing just as much as women do, but there aren't really a lot of affordable options out there.

CLOTH LOGIC: Tulle's success inspired us to follow a similar philosophy for Cloth Logic - to bring high quality design with an affordable price tag. Cloth Logic is designed by Leon Shpayer.
PRICE POINTS & WHERE TO BUY
Retail prices range from around $40-$60 for a top to around $100 for a wool coat.
The Line is now being sold in boutiques all over the world, some of the LA boutiques include UnaMae's, Clover and Ananda.
PROJECTS IN DEVELOPMENT
They’ve recently launched a new lower priced line called TULLETTE- she is the slightly younger, more playful and girly kid sister of Tulle.

Also in the works - extensive development of organic and recycled fabrics ranging from wools, cottons, bamboo, polyester etc. They're integrating domestic production and eco-friendly fabrics into both lines Some manufacturing will be domestic as well, “made in LA”.

THE RUNWAY SHOW

The palette; avocado, sangria, blush, marigold, pearl, lagoon and scarlet. A high point in the collection: the jackets that were beautifully executed to perfection, such as a short Navy Trench, the Capes, and a Black Barracuda Jacket, to name just a few.
Some favorites in the women’s line:
Exit #1: The "marina pant" which channeled Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn and the fist 8 looks of the show, which was very strong.
THE VERDICT This collection offered the perfect blend of vintage chic and is effortlessly cohesive.

END NOTE: We were able to get a few vintage inspired "Happy Days" long sleeve 3 button sweaters that seemed to be unisex and a few marigold seamless camis from their new collection. Both can easily be paired with jeans for a relaxed chic look.

“COLLABORATING FOR A CURE”

THE SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER FOUNDATION 11TH ANNUAL BENEFIT/AUCTION

69th Regiment Armory, NYC - November 20th, 2008

Last night, the nation’s economic ‘morale’ was decidedly low -the financial markets, ugh…but the moods of attendees at the SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER FOUNDATION BENEFIT were noticeably upbeat.

And it wasn’t just the consumption of alcohol by some, and/or a knockout performance by the iconic rock group, Steely Dan that kept spirits going higher and higher.

Or the self-deprecating, comedic remarks delivered by Guest MC, Chevy Chase to get the crowd in a generous spending mood…that did the trick.














Rather, it was the hopeful updates on the battle to find cures for cancer- delivered by leading light, Scientific Director - Samuel Waxman MD himself…as well as the order to “let it rip” delivered by Chairman of the Board, Michael Nierenberg - that gave the well-dressed crowd a reason to bid up on unique auction items… and to positively party on.



WHAT: To quote from the 2008 Annual Report:

“Our vision is a world where cancer treatment doesn’t disrupt lives, it just saves them.”

Founded thirty-two years ago by friends and grateful patients of Dr. Samuel Waxman, the eponymous named Foundation financially backs concept driven scientific research, promising strategies and “visionary investigations of reprogramming cancer cells at the molecular level.”

With one huge success to date- a virtual cure for acute promyelocytic leukemia, the Foundation now supports 60 scientists at premier institutions across the globe, via its INSTITUTE WITHOUT WALLS. This high IQ confab of scientists, Nobel Prize winners and/or cutting edge researchers who dare to dream- are all on the same page with this innovative approach to “reprogram chaotically growing cancer cells to behave normally, called “differentiation therapy.”

“It’s very exciting what the Waxman Foundation does,” noted Executive Director Merle Duskin Kallas-who we luckily had a few minutes to chat with.

“88 Cents of every dollar raised goes to research (87 cents) and education (1 cent)” Kallas pointed out.

IMHO: The administrative overhead is astonishingly (impressively) low for a 501©(3).

As the dedicated Kallas sagely added: “It has to be…how else can you cure cancer?”



KUDOS:
A masterful ‘performance’ by Sotheby’s Hugh Hildesley - aided by two adorable Golden Retriever puppies, and such “ultimate” experiences as a drum set and lesson- auctioned off in person (!) by Joey Kramer from the legendary band Aerosmith ($27,000!), a VIP dinner for four at the hip Waverly Inn with Chevy and Jayni Chase ($20,000)!) etc…got hearts pumping, hands up and bids flying.














PLUS: The live auction garnered major buckeroos, including outright donations to meet the substantial $1.5 million challenge grant by the Board of Trustees (funds that will 100% go directly to research-BTW).













But it was the legendary duo of Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, aka Steely Dan…their top-notch band (the drummer is FIERCE), and back-up singing trio - that got the crowd on their feet as soon as the first chord was struck.







Including the multi-talented Tamara Tunie-who dresses down in her role on Law and Order SVU-as the smart Medical Examiner, Dr. Melinda Warner.



Hey 19!

We didn’t stay for the after-party set by The Lost Trailers…but would have if we were- like a decade younger.


And needless to say, we look forward to the day when this benefit for “the Waxman” is essentially, a 'rally the troops'- victory celebration… for winning the war on cancer.




HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Log onto CHARITY BUZZ NOW- and bid on once in a lifetime prizes like a “we’d give almost anything to attend” the historic Inauguration of President-elect Obama-in VIP seats… plus assorted meet and greet functions… AND tickets to the Inaugural Balls that matter.

INFO: THE SAMUEL WAXMAN FOUNDATION

Words, Images by Judith Ecochard

ROCK & REPUBLIC LAUNCHES A HIP NEW MAKEUP LINE

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
“Before” and “After” images, Richard Spiegel
Images of the Rock & Republic spring 2009 show, Dan Lecca courtesy of Mercedes Benz
Image of Linda Kaufman, from myspace.com

A few weeks ago, we spent our lunch hour with LINDA KAUFMAN, a freelance makeup artist, who was demo-ing Rock & Republic’s new makeup line.
We hadn’t heard of it until Linda told us she would be at Bloomingdale’s Soho, educating shoppers about the brand. When we arrived, we were in for a BIG surprise – the line is huge, and we hope that we’ll be seeing some wide scale advertising to promote this cool new line that’s sure to hit with teens and twenty-somethings who want to look like a rock star.
WHAT WORKS:
The luxurious packaging, even the cardboard containers are shiny
THE NAMES: Jet set anyone?
Villa, Private Jet, penthouse, chenille, cashmere, satin.

PRIMER
These are named after all our favorite fashion icon:
Eve, Audrey, Sophia, Cleopatra, Jezebel.
They’re also all tinted with SPF 20, caffeine stimulates the circulation.
*Tip: Always go with something a tiny bit warmer if in doubt and goes on well with a sponge, brush, or your fingers.
It goes on almost with a powdery finish – one less step, since you don’t need a traditional foundation and powder when you use this.
What you do need, though is an ILLUMINATOR like “TRICKERY” or “JEZEBEL”. These have the tiniest of reflective particles that are visible only in broad sunlight. The effect is best used to highlight your cheekbones. Go easy with this one.



THE EYESHADOWS
This is your holiday gifting idea.
The best part is the made for gifting packaging. You only need to give one and it’s a fine gift in its chrome-lidded top with the R&R insignia on black patent leather.
Your friend will probably get hooked and want some more to add to her compact table.

Price: 1 eye shadow retails for $28.

MOUSSE BLUSH
This feels moist but not wet.
We liked “Quickie and “Conquest” – in the peach family

LIPGLOSS
Linda used the super pigment-y lip-gloss [unusual for a gloss, which means you can use a very little amount for day. You can apply it “normally” and achieve an editorial candy apple look.
OUR PICK: “Drama queen”, a dusty rose with some gold flecks in it. This color is strong enough to wear on days you just want to wear mascara, a lip-gloss, and nothing else.
THE BRUSHES –
They’re selling the brushes from $27 - $65.
*Linda says that you should buy a brush by how it FEELS. Some of her best are actually synthetic.


ROCK & REPUBLIC MAKEUP THAT MADE IT INTO LINDA’S PROFESSIONAL KIT TO GO ON LOCATION
-The lip glosses, “for their amazing pigment
-Eyeshadow in “lawsuit” which is a green with all brown – brings out your eyes no matter which color they are.
-The powder blushes – because they’re pigment-y with fun colors, like “kinky”, X-rated”.
- The PRIMER: “Audrey” for light skins, “SOPHIA” for darker skins

HOW IT WORE
Linda finished applying the makeup by 1pm and stayed put until 8:30PM when we took it all off.
The biggest surprise – the eyeshadow didn’t fade, at all.

At this time, the line is available at Bloomingdales & Henri Bendel

RUSSELL SIMMONS, LL COOL J, and DAVID BLAINE HOST THE DIAMOND EMPOWERMENT FUND™ BENEFIT

“HELPING AFRICANS HELP AFRICANS”

GREENHOUSE, VARICK STREET, SOHO
NOVEMBER 19TH 8:30 PM

Words, Images by Judith Ecochard

WHO: Music/business entrepreneur and yoga enthusiast Russell Simmons, the multi-talented hip-hop artist LL Cool J, and edgy magician David Blaine hosted a packed house of well -dressed guys, chic/sleek gals, celebs less the entourages- plus an effortless blend of with genetically blessed models, special guest Miss Africa USA Nyasha Zimucha, fellow musicians like Erykah Badu, O’Neal McKnight…and co-hosts African Angel Ambassador Nicola Breytenbach-Steiner, and Benjamin Steiner.









WHAT: “The Diamond Empowerment Fund is a non-profit international organization founded in 2007 by Russell Simmons, individuals in the diamond and jewelry industries, and others who are committed to the empowerment of Africa. D.E.F.’s mission is to raise money to support education initiatives that develop and empower economically disadvantaged people in African nations where diamonds are a natural resource.”







WHERE: The brand new “eco” GREENHOUSE nightclub in NYC…a 6000 sq. ft Leeds Certified (pending?) …with low impact everything like sustainable Bamboo walls, low-flow water consumption in bathrooms (lather up with Brad Pitt’s Fair Trade Soap), and we assume low energy heating system that was barely operational last night.

Seriously, we saw “smoke” coming out of our mouths when we got there early for the press check.







Mercifully, the space got packed, people got moving, drinks were flowing, and we still didn’t take off our winter coats…but our teeth stopped chattering.

ADDED PLUS: Delish Hors D’oeuvres from Via dei Mille, an awesome, AWESOME sound and LED light system taken full advantage of by DJ Cassidy- who had all the music heavy weights bopping away to the infectious beats.

And us…but we still kept our coats on. Poor coat check person…no tips!

BEST DRESSED: LL Cool J…attired, we assume, in his upscale, urban Todd Smith clothing line that debuted during NY Fashion’s Week.







HOW YOU CAN HELP: Log on to CHARITY BUZZ... and bid on such eye candy confections like Neil Lane Diamond and Platinum Leaf Earrings, or once in a lifetime jaunts like a Las Vegas Escape including rooms at the plush Palms Hotel, eats at N9NE Steakhouse & fun at The Playboy Club.

Or






Donate $200 or more and receive a complimentary Simmons Jewelry Co. Green Bracelet of Malachite with a One Karat Rough Diamond-the symbol of D.E.F.’s cause.

Or

Donate $250 or more-and receive a complimentary sapphire and pave diamond bracelet set in sterling silver, donated by Zale Corp. to benefit D.E.F.







INFO: DIAMOND EMPOWERMENT. ORG

THE AGATHA RUIZ de la PRADA COLLECTION OF MENINAS

Text & Images, Vivian G. Kelly
Time & Place: Wednesday night, November 19, 2008, the Agatha Ruiz de la Prada store at 135 Wooster Street, downtown Manhattan

THE INSPIRATION: “Las Meninas” Spanish painter, Velazquez’s masterpiece, of the solemn blonde Infanta Margarita [daughter of King Phillip IV], trapped in a stiff costume, surrounded by her faithful attendants.

WHY: The party was held in honor of one of a kind capsule collection Ms. de la Prada designed for F.I.T. Our favorite dress, and one our friend and guest, Molly Sutter of Limelight Ltd., ordered on the spot, was photographed and ran in WWD. The baby pink strapless with astonishing tulle detailing fulfills any mother’s fantasy of being a prima ballerina or the belle of the ball.


THE CROWD: It was like being in Spain, with all of the Spanish being spoken. A famous face, Belem Hudson in attendance wearing a blue Agatha Ruiz de la Prada.


PR maven, LISA SILHANEK, who looked great in a hot pink and orange de la Prada sweater, cued us into just how big a designer de la Prada is. Although she’s not a fixture on the NY circuit, she just showed not only in Madrid, but also in Milan and Paris!

Ms. de la Prada was surrounded by fans most of the evening, but we were able to secret her off for a minute or two to find out why she would dare to launch such a fantastical collection in times as dark as these.
LYRA MAG: Is there a message about the Meninas that you were trying to share by basing this capsule collection on her?

AGATHA: The Meninas is about the nature of what a woman’s life was like then – very restricted. This collection is the antithesis of all of that. We have always gone against the trend. The idea is to inspire people at a time of a recession.

LYRA MAG: Do you think that recession can be a good thing for creativity?

AGATHA: Historically, artists from all different disciplines have done their best work in times of crisis.

While it’s undeniably “a time of crisis” no matter which country you live in, Agatha Ruis de la Prada’s colorful designs help to brighten up our world.

To view the full range of Agatha de la Ruiz products, visit
www.agatharuizdelaprada.com

ELLA VICKERS -SAILCLOTH BAGS & SMART GLASS JEWELRY RECYCLED COLLECTIONS

THE GREEN GALLERY-SHOWCASE FOR ECO GIFTS



Words, Images by Judith Ecochard and from company websites


Agent Red International Showroom, Garment Center- NYC

The Gallery Los Angeles Eco Relations and Marketing recently hosted a Big Apple version of the Green Gallery…a showcase of eco fashion and accessories.

Our time being limited, we zeroed in on two collections that we think are ‘fresh.’

ELLA VICKERS-RECYCLED SAILCLOTH COLLECTION


Ahoy Mates.
Eco-friendly and handcrafted in the USA, Ella Vickers an urban and sea-chic collection of functional messenger totes, padded Captains briefcase bags, wristlets, diaper bags Spinnaker Shower Curtains, and ocean durable duffel bags etc. made from crisp white Dacron Sailcloth and hi-performance Kevlar Sailcloth.

Standing by her motto “green is the new black” the former first mate on an American Cup winner, Vickers launched her eponymous hauler line several years ago. Constructed from discarded sails and completed with marine grade components…each bag is water resistant, durable, as well as nautically stylish.







Plus the striking designs are graphically eye-catching, and perfect as gifts for guys and gals…and dogs.











RETAIL PRICES: From $40 for a zip pouch… to $375 for an Excursion Duffel Set in Medium AND Large.

INFO: ELLA VICKERS


SMARTGLASS – RECYCLED JEWELRY

With the quip “…you won’t believe how beautiful a beer bottle can be…”™ the talented owner/designer Kathleen Plate backs up her words with beautiful hand crafted earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets made from precious metals and ‘discarded’ recycled glass.







Plate started small (gifts for friends) …and has grown her celebrity-adored business into a wearable art form with a social conscience. Even Coca-Cola and Aveda Corporation commissioned her to create a line of jewelry with the companies’ signature bottles.

Think “urban organic” delicate and HIP.

INFO: SMART GLASS JEWELRY

ANDREW MARC-MEN’S INVESTMENT DRESSING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Men, in general, covet the practical, gift-wise. That’s why Sears Craftman’s tool sets, electric drills, and car gadgets are such popular offerings for special occasions.

We think this realistic retail approach is a “wise investment” for wannabe Santas.

Our pick:
The leather goods company of Andrew Marc has two classic styles for guys that will last a lifetime.

A banded collar motorcross jacket ($695) is a keeper whether a man is a Rebel Without A Cause (James Dean) or skews more towards an aspiring George Cloooney.

Another masculine option is a black top coat with a nifty attached vest. ($795).


Casual Cool has never looked so good.

INFO: ANDREW MARC

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images courtesy of Andrew Marc

The 2nd Supima Emerging Designer Competition in New York.

WHERE: Thompson Hotel -NYC

WHEN: Thursday, Nov 20th, 4pm to 9pm and on Friday, Nov 21st, 10am to 1pm

WHAT: The 2nd Supima Emerging Designer Competition in New York for Supima®, the world’s finest cotton is looking forward to igniting creativity and supporting the fashion industry’s emerging talent, at time when there is a lot of uncertainly due to the economy.

During this Open Call- for the selected 25 designers, Supima will be reviewing portfolios and garments from young talented fashion students, designers starting out in their career as well as seasoned designers all eager to showcase their work in a live runway show January 14th Gotham Hall... for an audience of buyers, editors, retailers and other industry heavyweights.

INFO WEBSITE FOR DETAILS: SUPIMA.ORG

THE JUDGES:
Patrick Groenendaal, VP Design / Creative Director, Hampshire Group
Glen Hoffs, Men’s Design Director, Brooks Brothers
David Leung teaches design at Parsons and at the Kent State Program
Lisa Santandrea, teaches fashion history at Parsons and has a fellowship at the Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute
Tim Yap, Fashion Editor, Sportswear International
Hitha Prabhakar, Fashion Editor, Stylist

EX OFFICIO: NEW ADVENTURE TRAVEL FOOTWEAR FOR SPRING ‘09

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SHOES FOR EVERYDAY, EVERYWHERE

Words, Images Judith Ecochard

EX OFFICIO is a Latin term meaning "by virtue of office or position.”

We are sure there is some connection between said definition and this Washington State based Technical, Outdoor, Hiking and Adventure clothing line. But we don’t get it.

What we do ‘get’ is that the durable, easy clean Ex Officio BUZZ OFF Insect Shield Repellent apparel - that we lived in during a long stay in Africa…actually worked as billed. Mercifully.

No surprise then- that we were eager to preview their new line of kickers for guys and gals…set to hit retail shelves in November ‘08 and March ’09 - respectively. We figured the new gear emerged from the same philosophy as Ex Officio’s technical travel clothing - that each item has to “be wearable for three occasions.”


Because really, wouldn’t it be great to just need to pack one or two pairs of shoes in our carry-ons.

To get off on the good foot- in a manner of speaking…with shoes effortlessly ‘taking’ us from day hikes to a “nice” dinner if we’re flashing some leg.

Ex Officio spent months (years?) sweating the functional and fashionable ped details.

It shows.

And the scoop from Ex Officio’s David Adler makes total sense. “We looked at our customer first.”

“It’s COMFORT CUBED,” he noted…. meaning “physical comfort and emotional comfort, and comfort of value.”

MEN’S- SOME HIGHLIGHTS

According to Adler, “…guys are very particular about their shoes…we took to our customer the question…how are your clothes and shoes going to perform for you?”

Well dudes, here’s the answer. Think handsome, comfortable and versatile- wear with everything- neutral tones…that multi-task.

For the water bound, the quick drying, odor/water resistant Reef Runner functions with a waterproof leather upper, removable 4X4 support footbed, and an EVA midsole with traction siped outsole. ($110 in Black, Trail, Sand).

The Destination Caravan shoe serves double duty, as a moisture-wicking, water/odor/stain resistant durable easy trail”er” that wouldn’t look out of place in a casual office setting. Waterproof leather uppers with breathable vents, a TPU heel stabilizer and shank, an EVA midsole, and a siped rubber, wet traction outsole are the keys to this super lightweight shoe. ($150-in Black, Brown).

For more rugged jaunts, the Trip’r Cruz’r and Shade selections hold up on mountain trails as well as ancient cobblestone byways.

The lace up Cruz’r comes with waterproof leather or eco friendly natural hemp uppers, a removable 4X4 support footbed, internal EVA midsole, and a wet traction, siped rubber outsole…plus in demand moisture-wicking, odor, stain, and water resistant properties. ($135 in Trail, Bavarian, Sand, Light Pebble Hemp, Black Hemp).

We see the slip on- Shade style becoming a weekend fixture in many men’s wardrobe.

And they’re loaded up with the same features as the Cruz’r. ($135 Leather, $90 Hemp- in Black, Trail, Sand, Black Hemp, Coffee Hemp. Mushroom Hemp).


WOMEN’S-TOP PICKS

As nature girls we are impressed with the technical factors that the ladies shoes serve up. But with our fashionista caps on, we are even more wowed by the subtle design details that set Ex Officio women’s apart from other lifestyle brands…details that some customers might not even notice.







In the Destination line, we particularly like the Traveler slip on ($110). Yup-the shoes (in Black, Deep Red, Toast, Honey and Chateau Blue) have supple leather uppers, breathable (pretty pink) bamboo fabric linings, Ex Officio Ortholite removable comfort footbeds, internal EVA midsoles, and sport 20% recycled rubber outsoles.

But the contrast stitching on the uppers- on the black pair we saw... really caught our eyes and make the Traveler a wearable urban savvy shoe choice too.














Ex Officio also has two Mary Jane style shoes: the lightweight Savvy ($110) and the striking Notus with a graphic two tone diagonal strap (Leather $110, Hemp $80) in assorted colors and loaded with performance tough bells and whistles.

But being a slide on and go type, we are looking forward to trying out the Zeph’r sandal with nubuck leather upper, high rebound EVA footbed, and a 20% recycled outsole. We feel this will be our wear everywhere foot covering during the warmer weather…or during the cold climes right after a pedicure.

Guess we can suffer/freeze for beauty a (very) little bit. At least our feet will be properly supported.

INFO: EX OFFICIO








ADDED PLUS: Meeting the lively visionary, well traveled and Ex Officio attired Richard Bangs, author of Adventures With Purpose…. Dispatches From The Front lines Of Earth and Quest For The Sublime…Finding Nature’s Secret In Switzerland (both featured in PBS’ series)

---AND co- founder of the amazing travel company Sobek Expeditions, now Mountain Travel Sobek---that organizes, and leads extraordinary adventures for the physically active and intellectually curious.

Mountain Travel Sobek’s insider access to far flung destinations is a major PLUS, adventure travel-wise…so hands on wanderers, let alone other tour companies, would have a hard, if not impossible time trying to duplicate the almost out of this world itineraries.

Seriously, we got the hefty catalogue to peruse at our leisure…and that we eagerly zipped through on the subway ride home.

Said tome was completely dog eared by the time we got to our stop…we want to Pass Go and get out of town on every journey. Tomorrow.

INFO: RICHARD BANGS
MOUNTAIN TRAVEL SOBEK

Book Cover Images From Richard Bangs’ website.

MONIQUE LHUILLIER bride, the fall 2009 bridal collection

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Richard Spiegel

Time & Place:
Nearly 12 noon, Sunday of NY Bridal Week
“This season, I was inspired by pictures of Grace Kelly on her wedding day. I wanted to capture the regal beauty that she exuded. I also wanted to take the collection back to a traditional time. Over the top luxury but in a subtle way.”
MONIQUE LHUILLIER -

We almost decided to call it a day after this show. The euphoria we felt after her show was not unlike the experience we have every season at a Ralph Rucci show. When something is this good, best not to spoil the moment by seeing anything else that won’t measure up. The retailer next to us was in agreement.

THE THEME: Regally beautiful, as in Grace Kelly.
VEILS: If you are hankering to wear one of these, they look perfectly apropos to the lovely strapless creations.

There was also a teardrop back stunner in floral lace with a v-front in a design that was unmistakably RTW [Ready to Wear].

DETAILING
There was some skillful folding technique but kept to a minimum as in a twist front dress [only on the bustier].

Similarly, the beaded lace overlay was rendered with a light tough and Lhuillier didn’t pile it on. This was an either or proposition – either you get the lace overlay OR the beading.
As always there is the Princess Gown option – one with very white tulle skirt the other, in a lovely cream with a spiral-embroidered skirt and the other with allover peacock feather embroidery.


DREAMLIKE
The classical soundtrack, the Grace Kelly hair and makeup, the candelabra sconces and the exquisite gowns all added up to one beautiful show. We can’t imagine that a bride to be wouldn’t want to look like this if she had the budget to make it happen.

For more about the designer and her collections, visit
www.moniquelhuillier.com

Suzanne’s Discreet Fem Totes

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Courtesy of the Anderson Group Public Relations


No woman welcomes “that time of the month”. We’ve had to make the walk to the bathroom secreting a Tampax in the sleeve of a cashmere sweater too many times. How about that time you swore you had left one or two Tampax in the glove compartment of your car and once you finally located it, the packaged was ripped and it was totally unusable?

THE SOLUTION: Suzanne’s Fem Tote

We discovered these while attending bridal designer ROMONA KEVEZA’S latest presentation. The model we saw there was a sparkly one that was right for black tie occasions.




WHAT EXACTLY ARE THESE TOTES?
They’re feminine product travel cases that look like an expensive cosmetics case, or even an evening bag. Unlike a regular old clutch, these cases have secured compartments made expressly for tampons, pads, and prepackaged hygiene wipes. There’s even an additional pair of panties for an unexpected emergency.


WHAT THEY’RE MADE OF:
A wide variety of choices here: choose from croc, snakeskin, and there are the special satin ones made up especially for the Romona Keveza presentation.


ABOUT SUZANNE: The brains behind Suzanne’s Intimate Apparel Solutions is founder Suzanne Gabos from Tampa, Florida. She put her sense of style, fashion and organization to work and launched the company in September 2007. Her customer base consists of females between the ages of 12 and 60.

Pricing: @ $60 - $130

There’s much more on the line, which can be viewed on
www.intimateapparelsolutions.com
Tel#: 1-977-892-6631

THE KEVAN HALL spring 2009 Collection Show

Text, Casi Densimore-Koon
Edited by Vivian G. Kelly

Images, Dan Lecca, courtesy of Mercedes Benz

When: October 12th, 2008
Time: 4pm
Where: Smashbox Studios, Culver City California, Main Tent

"Quiet on the Set as we peer through the looking glass of timeless American design" - Kevan Hall


Kevan Hall started out Mercedes Benz Fashion Week LA with lots of glamour. Looking on front row was Brent Bolthouse from Bolthouse Production [Heidi’s former boss on “The Hills”] and Dana Delany from “Desperate Housewives”.
Each design was put into a collection of five scenes.

Scene I – a capsule collection of collection of chic attention grabbing white and black ensembles.

We loved Mr. Hall’s fluid yet structured silk dupioni over sized gingham in voluminous shapes. The gingham Bacall rehearsal blouse in black and white silk gingham shantung with black pencil pant was cinched with a silk and cotton notched black patent leather corset belt.

Scene II –color! Shades of taupe, azure, sage, and white accented with silver metallics.
We loved the sage/aqua ombre silk chiffon dress with rosette straps.
Scene III: "Think Pink"
Fluid gowns in a brighter palette; citrine, apple, amber, turquoise and marigold.
Here were silhouettes that Harlow and Dietrich would wear, interpreted in a modern way.
This spring look on the red carpets for Kevan’s pink criss cross crinkled silk chiffon goddess gown and pink graduated taffeta jazz dress.

Scene IV: the new "Dinner Dress". A chic palette of black and navy combination in chiffon, taffeta, and embroideries received a standing ovation.

A MOMENT WITH KEVAN HALL:

LYRA MAG: Now that IMG has pulled of Los Angles Fashion Week, will we see you at Bryant Park?

KH: I would love to show my Fall 09 collection at Bryant Park. Perhaps I will do both NYC and something intimate for my LA clients.

LYRA MAG: What influences do you draw upon in your designs?

KH: I love all things beautiful. A collection could be inspired by the richness of the sea or the distinctive people of the tribes in Africa. The Spring 2009 collection dresses my muse from rehearsal, lunch, dinner to the red carpet.

LYRA MAG: What inspired this collection?

KH: The great costumer designer Andrian who created the images of style icons Joan Crawford, Marlene Dietrich and Norma Shearer.

LYRA MAG: Anyone you would love to wear your gown?

KH: Michelle Obama to the Inaugural in 2009.


We hope he gets to do just that!

For more about Kevan Hall and his designs, you can visit his website - www.kevanhalldesigns.com

Holiday Gift Gets - GREAT ITEMS THAT WILL HAVE THE GUYS LOOKING LIKE HOLLYWOOD’S TREND SETTERS

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Courtesy of Atelier Creative Services, Inc.

TREND: Men these days are looking every bit as styled these days on the big and small screen. In fact, they’ve added a very stylish retro element to their wardrobes that make us look forward to not only the show plots but to what they’re wearing on that week’s episode.
On the big screen, James Bond is making another much-anticipated appearance in “Quantum of Solace” which opens today.
Bonds over the years have served as inspirations since the sixties for men.

The small screen, has recently served as a source of sartorial inspiration for men.
Winner for most stylish TV male stars - “ENTOURAGE”!
We love to hate “Ari” and we simply love the unjustly abused “Lloyd”. What they have in common is a natty, polished look.


Below, some suggestions to that forever puzzling question, “WHAT do I get the men in my life that say they don’t want anything without going broke?” Unless you’re in the position to buy him a really cool gift such as one of the cars or one of a kind gadgets James Bond gets to play with, you may want to consider the options highlighted below.

The look: Laid-back LA movie star glam with 60s references.
The ITEMS TO BUY:

#1: THE TIE CLIP - to secure the 60s Brat Pack-esque skinny tie
Your Resource: COLIBRI
Their stainless steel version imbedded with a luminescent green glass from the “Diffusion Collection”.
Price: @ $60
Additional Options: A lighter for $90, and a cigar cutter for $45.

Another resource: TONINO LAMBORGHINI’s tie bar from the “IL PRIMO COLLECTION”
Price: $125


#2: CUFFLINKS - Women have cocktail rings, men have these. These days, men need them to secure the French Cuffs that are back in style.

RESOURCE: TONINO LAMBORGHINI
We love the handsome garnet and titanium cufflinks from the “CORSA COLLECTION”
Price: $165

If the man your list owns a Lamborghini, Tonino Lamborghini’s key chain from “IL PRIMO COLLECTION” is a must.
Price: $ 115

For retail information, please call:
1-800-556-7354


RESOURCE: DOLAN BULLOCK, who are well-regarded makers of fine men’s accessories have a pair of sterling silver with blue hawk’s eye, cuff links at an affordable $70.
If you can splurge, there’s their 14-karat gold cuff links with white
and Tahitian black pearls that are right for the board-
room AND black-tie.
Price: $1,100.

To shop, visit www.eLighters.com.
They’re authorized dealers of Dolan Bullock products.

THE NATURAL DENTIST® - BOTANICALLY BASED ORAL CARE

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images Courtesy of The Natural Dentist





A recent visit with our fav dentist, Jennifer Jablow - was part treatment, part information gathering on the latest in oral care regimens.

Jablow, it turns out-uses The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Daily Mouth Rinse that’s “less harsh than Listerine” but works. In fact, a giganto pump bottle was at the ready in the exam room.

Since we think the world of this Doctor’s opinion, we decided to test drive some of The Natural Dentist’s products ourselves.

Granted, we are already eco leaning---but we needed to see the results, let alone read the scientifically based research study published in the May issue of the peer-reviewed publication, The Journal of the American Dental Association…that found The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Mouth Rinse very effective in inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria.

And doing so without alcohol, harsh chemicals or artificial sweeteners, dyes or preservatives!

Flavored with natural ingredients, the Peppermint Twist (the other flavor-Orange Zest) is already a top selling dental product. We took a swig of the light peppermint oil colored mouth rinse, spit...and exhaled.

Immediately, we tasted the authentic peppermint flavor…not the icky artificial taste usually associated with Holiday candy canes.

Better, our gums/teeth felt clean without the burn and the fresh taste lingered.

A good thing.

We also tried the Whitening Plus Healthy Teeth and Gums Toothpaste-an anti-cavity, whitening cleaner made with natural ingredients, natural fluoride, xylitol (from birch tress) to fight bacteria…and no SLS (an irritating detergent).

We liked it better than the chemically laced whitening toothpaste we are currently using…because our sensitive teeth “felt” better. With time, they will better look better too with customized polishing silica to gently whiten and remove surface stains.

Already have pearly whites? There's a regular Healthy Teeth & Gums Toothpaste in family friendly Peppermint Twist, Orange Zest, Sparkle Berry Blast and Peppermint Sage (fluoride free) flavors.

And after all the orange candy corns we inhaled on Halloween, the timing of our toothpaste switch could not be better.

OTHER PRODUCTS: The Natural Dentist Healthy Teeth & Gums Anticavity Fluoride Rinse (to strengthen teeth enamel and help minimize the risk of cavities) and The Natural Dentist Healthy Teeth Fluoride Rinse (designed for those with braces).

INFO: THE NATURAL DENTIST

FACTOID: The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Daily Mouth Rinse made Oprah's "Best Of" List.

GERARD BOLLEI SALON CELEBRATES 30th ANNIVERSARY WITH A DAY OF “GOOD LOOKS FOR GOOD WORKS”

Charity Volunteers Go Glam- Gratis

East 57th Street, NYC November 12th 3PM

WORDS, IMAGES Judith Ecochard and from companies’ respective websites

Many service bizs celebrate any anniversary with a splashy party…and there’s nothing wrong with that.

But there’s something about gearing festivities towards helping others that is ultimately more rewarding.

On November 12th, the upscale Gerard Bollei Salon celebrated its 30th anniversary by donating $15,000 worth of beauty services to thirty charity volunteers, nominated by their respective non-profits.

The Day of Beauty recipients ran the gamut from women who have never had a professional salon service ever…to ladies who are beauty mavens. Yet all volunteers looked that much more splendid after a Bollei Signature Color, Cut and Styling, seaweed based skincare line Repêchage® mini-facial, a new visage courtesy of IL-Makiage Make-up and a Spa Manicure.

And all pampering treatments were delivered in the spacious two-story salon located in the elegant East 57th Street Galleria building.

We had a chance to chat with some of the eye-appeal enablers when we popped in to check out the event.

Seda Azarian, Director of Education for Repêchage®… felt “great giving back” to worthy volunteers. “We love doing these kind of events,” she added.


Azarian also gave us the scoop on the massive selling Repêchage® Lip Rescue Kit. The three part treatment package with a Bare Luscious Lips Exfoliating Cream, a Lip Perfecting Moisturizer with Pout Plumping Peptides, a Volume Enhancing Massager, and Lip Plumping Gloss with Peptides that ‘s shiny clear-has already garnered plenty of positive press for wannabe Angelina Jolies. ($50).

















Joey Battisti, Creative Guru at the salon…was “inspired by the volunteers’ stories” about their work for a variety of charities that helped battered women, under-privileged kids, soup kitchens etc.

A veteran hair stylist – Battisti trained in his family-owned Rochester, NY salon- and in Italy (licensed at 16!)- prior to his career in the Big Apple.

Currently long hair with longer layers for “a more solid look” is a popular style for Fall. “We also do quite a bit of temporary extensions (lasts 6-8 weeks) for thickness and volume.”

Battisti also noted that Brazilian Straightening “is huge.” A 1 ½ hour treatment calms the frizzies, locks in moisture, and leaves a super shiny finish, gradually washes out evenly (no weird looking line of demarcation), and lasts about 3 months depending on frequencies of hair washings. ($600).

Color wise, Battisti is doing richer shades- with tone on tone highlights.

Naturally we had to ask what he considered the biggest hair disasters in the past. “Frosting caps for highlighting…where hair strands were pulled through with a crotchet hook…and Long Island bangs” made the list.

Last up was some face time with Ilana Harkavi, founder of IL-Makiage cosmetics as she was applying make-up to a volunteer. We know IL-Makiage is acclaimed for its silicone based, Dual-Finish Foundation ($26) that’s applied with a damp sponge, goes on “like butter” then dries to a powder for a flawless finish.

For Fall, Harkavi is focusing on the “idea of color”---taking her cues from the gold or cool tones of a women’s eyes, not her skin tone like most cosmetic artists. “Greens, purples, blues and yellow/peaches (the latter for warm tones)” are top palette choices.

“I balance out the eye color tones with the lip color, ” Harkavi remarked…with a Cayenne Red (warm) and Flamingo Red (cool) her favorite picks.

“Every season I come out with a red-it’s a classic that always works.”

We agree.




INFO: GERARD BOLLEI
REPÊCHAGE
IL - MAKIAGE

REBECCA MOSES-SPARKLING TABLE TOP COLLECTION LAUNCHES AT MACY’S

“HEART, SOUL, STYLE” FOR THE HOME
November 13th, Midtown NYC

Words, Images- Judith Ecochard

Our appointment at the spacious Li and Fung showroom to preview Rebecca Moses Table Top Collection-overlapped a meeting taking place with the Macy’s powers that be.

We did not listen in but could clearly see through the glass partitions- that the gaggle of retailers were psyched about the affordable and colorful items set to hit shelves in February.


And their enthusiasm is well founded.

We had actually met the creative and smart Rebecca Moses last February when her enormous collection of household items was ready for the trade and the press to admire and covet.

It seems Macy’s got “onboard from the beginning” with retail enthusiasm for the wide assortment of dishes, plastic stemware that looks like the real deal, oversized, patterned bowls and mugs for morning lattes, multi-functional single and tiered trays, and linen. The entire collection is at price points that are astonishing for the quality- with most items falling into the $6.99 - $9.99 range…and topping out at $49.99 for the hefty wax luminaries (aka massive candle holders).









Fittingly, mauve, pale turquoise, and lavender palettes dominate as the pieces emerged from Moses’ innovative “color directions and my designs.”

And she certainly did “break the taboo of table wear not ware” with chic items that seamlessly work with whatever one already owns…including Grandma’s china.















Like wearing the always perfect outfit of an au courant LBD accessorized with a glorious vintage handbag- or vice versa.

Moses herself particularly favors the “mixture of ceramic dishes and plastic stemware.”

We think the posh mash-up of tones, shapes and textures are an easy, winning blend of European sensibilities and American practicality that defines Moses belief … “style is not just about something you buy.”
.







What Moses brings to the table so-to-speak- is a heavy dose of “pride in the home…cheer and happiness.”

Now all we need is a new kitchen.

RETAIL INFO: MACY’S

The Rebecca Moses Table Top Collection Is Available in Macy's Everywhere- February 2009

LA MAISON DU CHOCOLAT-A STORE DÉBUT=A TREAT FOR WALL STREET

POSH BOUTIQUE FESTIVITIES HITS THE "SWEET" SPOT






63 Wall Street, NYC November 12th 2008

6:06PM

Words, images Judith Ecochard

The Fire Department must have been busy somewhere else in Lower Manhattan…as an incredibly packed house boisterously sipped non-stop bubbling Champagne at the glam new La Maison Du Chocolat in Lower Manahttan.



We arrived six minutes after the official start time of 6pm and ALREADY, the handsome wood paneled boutique (with a tearoom in the back we did not get to see) was filled with well-dressed individuals- nibbling on the sinfully delish delicacies at hand or happily accepting refills of Pommery from very polite waiters.












We got a (very) few minutes to chat with the very proud Directeur Général of La Maison Du Chocolat, Geoffrey D’Anglejean-Chatillon…who rightfully was touched by the warm reception of attendees.

“La Maison Du Chocolat has been in business for thirty years,” D’Anglejean-Chatillon noted…but has refreshed the look and feel of its boutiques worldwide to better serve an increasingly sophisticated clientele. This includes sourcing exotic chocolates from all over the globe to keep palates satiated and intrigued.









It’s no surprise to us that this high-end purveyor of the finest chocolates succeeds in its 21st century endeavors- with artistic and varied presentations of the sensuous morsels, available individually or in elegantly wrapped boxes and baskets of assortment flavors and fillings.












Our favorite is the light as air macaroons, which are nothing like the typical American variety that clog one’s throat. La Maison Du Chocolat’s offerings literally melted in our mouths. We tried all flavors, naturally- but were particularly taken with the fresh raspberry one.









Merci beaucoup for the fun evening…we could have stayed all night as we tried to figure out how all of the French employees maintained their slim figures.


INFO: LA MAISON DU CHOCOLAT

ULLA-MAIJA’s Couture Bridal Collection #30

Time & Place: Late Sunday Afternoon, NY Bridal Week,
The Ulla Maija Atelier & Showrooms, Manhattan’s Garment Center

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Richard Spiegel

IS THERE AN ANNA MAIER OR AN ULLA-MAIJA?
Anna Maier was a real person; she was a master tailor who came to the United States in 1871, from the Alsace Lorraine region of France. Anna was Mr. Charles W. Bunstine II’s great grandmother.

Ulla-Maija Couture's business life is under the direction of Mr. Bunstine who develops the Anna Maier ~ Ulla-Maija collections with Allison Fletcher. Ms. Fletchter, very impressively, began as a design intern after graduating from the Savannah School of Design and worked her way up to her present position.


THE SHOW

This season, the program notes promised us “contrasts, as they were a constant consideration”.

WHAT THAT MEANS
To start, fabrics are of paramount importance to this collection. There are rich duchess satins, sheer garza, and feather light tulle. The couture element extends to the various finishes and of course the draping the company is known for.



“SIMPLE” Is NOT SIMPLE

It’s clear that these are the sorts of gowns that a woman wears rather than the other way around. It’s likely that an Ulla Maija bride is also a fan of Calvin Klein’s. By “simple” we mean a notable absence of beading and lace overlays, and veils.

What really stood out was the skillful draping, sumptuous duchess satin, and how well the gowns fit. The gowns that worked the best were those that focused on shape and draping.

OUR FAVORITES: “Alita” a bias duchess satin gown with gazar draped shoulders and Katy:, a bias double charmeuse gown with asymmetrically draped constructed bodice and slimskirt.
Just about every bridal designer says the usual icons – Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Jacqueline Kennedy, influence them. The designers at Ulla Maija made not such claim, but they hit closer to the mark of capturing these icons’ classic elegance.
Simple by the way doesn’t mean that there aren’t any trains or bustles, rather they’re just smaller than in the past.


PRICING
Although it’s called “couture” the prices are not out of the ballpark, starting with a draped garza coat for $1,900 up to a mixed duchess satin slim twisted tier draped gown with a silver and crystal floral embroidered bodice in the $5,000 range.



HAIR & MAKEUP
A low messy bun with heavy kholed eyes by VINCENT OQUENDO and his team at Smashbox Cosmetics that looked edgy, in contrast to the elegant duchesse satin gowns. The soul soundtrack that played in the background added a modern edge as well.

EXPO EAST: MORE ECO ALTERNATIVES FOR LIVING

PRACTICAL & PRICE SAVVY ALTERNATIVES GOOD FOR THE EARTH
EARTH BALANCE®, TWIST™, ON TRACK SNACKS®, SMASHIES,™ & BLUM NATURALS

Words, Judith Ecochard
Images from Company Websites

What we wear and how we adorn ourselves costs us plenty…
But what’s the point if we fuel/feed with junk. It shows up on our outer selves.

Fortunately, there’s plenty of price competitive, eco alternatives that are better for us and the planet.

EARTH BALANCE®:
Vegan, gluten and GMO free… and naturally free of artery clogging trans-fat, hydrogenated oils and artificial ingredients…Earth Balance is a line of tasty, good for you all natural buttery spreads. Made with a proprietary blend of expeller-pressed oils shown to raise HDL cholesterol (the good one) and lower LDL (the bad) we got to sample some of the new vegan nut butters- the Creamy and Crunchy Peanut Butters.




Right off, we liked the no-stirring necessary consistency… and added ingredients like flax seeds (ALA OMEGA 3) and natural agave syrup, a low glycemic sweetner from the succulent plant.
Health benefits aside… both peanut butters are delicious…with the right smooth texture, feel against our tongue, and ‘spreadability’… and a BIG plus ...a real peanut taste (duh) without the cloying sweetness of leading brands (courtesy of their added corn syrup!).
RETAIL: Widely available across the USA and Canada, SRP $3.99-$4.49 per 16 oz shatter -proof jars.


INFO: EARTH BALANCE NATURALS




TWIST™
Eco-friendly household products seem like a no-brainer. Sure, we bagged the plastic shopping bags (which we sadly learned are collected by grocery stores, and not recycled BUT shipped overseas for incineration). We gave little thought to the sponges and wipesused for clean ups.

In 2006 Eric Wigert and Brian Ross did think about the sponges in their kitchens…and “set out to turn the world of cleaning products on its head-combining design and environmental responsibility to create functional, beautiful, and responsible alternatives."

We tried out the reusable European Sponge Cloth #20 made from cellulose derived from sustainable tree farms. It worked just as well as our usual paper picker upper…and reportedly is equivalent to 17 rolls of paper towels, is dishwasher safe and biodegradable. So it’s cheaper without compromise - priced at $3.99 (3 pk).
We also preferred the Twist Loofah Sponge (in an eye-catching robin’s egg blue color) for scrubbing and washing up over the steel wool alternative- as one side is absorbent and the other side is natural loofah. ($4.99/2 pack).
Why not include TWIST products as part of any housewarming gift or as a bridal registry addition to give with a set of pots/pans.

PACKAGING TIP: Twist paperboard packaging can be converted into bird feeders and mobiles by following included instructions.

RETAIL INFO: The entire line including a Bamboo Cloth and dye-free Naked Sponge…are available at chains like Bed, bath and Beyond, Target, William Sonoma etc as well as Whole Foods.
TWIST CLEAN




ON TRACK SNACKS®
“Bridging the Gap Between Fruit and Candy.”
We usually don’t need to watch our weight, but there was a ‘no time for anything’ spell when we devoured energy bars in a mistaken belief that we could nutritionally fuel on those- without consequences.
HA! We actually felt less than energetic and a bit chunkier for our efforts.
No wonder. The fine print ingredients of these meal alternatives (sic) included high fructose corn syrup (crash and burn worthy), and fruit concentrates (cooked so no inherent nutritional value) and sugar.
Still we like the portability of the bars- so were jazzed to try out On Track Snacks that contains real fruit and real nuts and no added sugars or transfats!

And delivers without the cardboard taste.
Because the bar we sampled, the moist, chewy/crunchy Mixed Berry one- actually contains fruit, we felt better knowing that our 4PM lull had been punched up by a snack containing one serving of fruit (per bar) and is a great source for antioxidants, fiber and omega 3 & 6.
FACTOID: On Track snacks is a natural offshoot of family owned Bouquet of Fruits- a Signatory Company with The Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

The bars (also in YUMMY age friendly Chocolate Cherry Fudge, Strawberry Banana, Peaches & Cream) are VEGAN, KOSHER and HIGH IN FIBER too.
RETAIL INFO: Widely available in schools and stores
ON TRACK SNACKS




SMASHIES®
Talk about a food product that every parent will covet. Even the childfree will toss a squeezable no mess pouch of organic, no added sugar Smashie applesauce into a bag or knapsack. Portable, no mess packaging … and healthy too. Nice.

THE 411:
Each 3.2 oz pouch ($1.49- or online at $9.99 for a ten pack) contains a blend of USDA Organic Red and Golden Delicious Apples (no high fructose corn syrup!), low calorie (50 calories) and packed with 25% of daily required Vitamin C.

Founded by Karsten Robbins---an entrepreneurial parent with all-natural juice blends’ experience.

RETAIL INFO:
SMASHIES









BLUM NATURALS:

Portable cleansing towelettes for on-the-go scrub downs are handy. It makes sense that users (us) would want to wipe up with all natural products.

Newbie skincare line Blum Naturals had cleansing towelettes and scrubs for many skin types-making their debut at Expo East.

We test drove the Exfoliating Skin Towelettes ($6.99)- that are are hypoallergenic, alcohol free and PH balanced and FREE OF paraben, SLS, and any kind of synthetic preservatives-
after a particularly challenging hike.

We felt refreshed and revived afterwards (well, our faces anyway).

As founder Albert Savdie notes:

“Our products are infused with natural plant extracts, fruit sugars and nourishing antioxidants that easily remove waterproof makeup.” They are hypoallergenic, alcohol free and PH balanced. They are also Paraben-free, SLS free, and free of any kind of synthetic preservatives.

RETAIL INFO: BLUM NATURALS

Lana Fuchs’ “Rhapsody in Bloom” spring 2009 Collection

Text, Casi Densmore- Koon
Edited by Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Ming Han Chung and Peter Tsai and Casi Densmore-Koon

Time & Place:
Day 3 of LA Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios
Tuesday October 14th @ 4pm

Where: The Main Tent

Lana Fuchs debuted her couture collection as the 1st Las Vegas based designer to show at Mercedes Benz 7th Annual Fashion Week in Los Angles. Showcasing more than 50 looks she pays close attention to detail with her vibrant color, ultra feminine silhouettes and day to evening elegant dresses - even a wedding gown. The hand made embellishments got everyone's attention and made a lasting impression.

We were able to briefly catch up with her backstage before the show as she beamed with excitement holding her daughters hand, her "mini-me" before she took to the runway.

Lyra Mag: How does it feel being the first Las Vegas based designer to participate in IMG Mercedes Benz Fashion Week?

LANA: It is a huge honor!. Despite the fact that we do not have many resources for our industry here in Vegas, I love this city and hope that some day we will have our own Garment District, Fashion Mart and our very own LV Fashion Week.

Lyra Mag: What is your signature style?

My signature style would be best described as timely and timeless elegance, consisting of dresses in seductively feminine silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. These are pieces designed for women who collect beautiful clothes, not just buy them. Each Lana Fuchs Couture dress will hopefully be passed down as a family heirloom from one generation of women to the next.

Lyra Mag: How do you balance designing in addition to being a CEO for Billionaire Mafia?

It is certainly a challenge to wear so many hats, but I believe I have an advantage because I am also a mom, which means that early on, I learned how to juggle my responsibilities and budget my time, as all moms do. I try to adhere to a schedule, wherein one half of my day, usually mornings are spent on management and the afternoons, and very often evenings are dedicated to the love of my life, which is design. I also use the weekends to have some "quiet time" and work on my designs when my husband and kids have their own activities scheduled.

Lyra Mag: What was your inspiration for "Rhapsody in Bloom"?

I was inspired to use stunning floral prints after an unforgettable walk through the gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny, France. While traveling from Udaipur to Jaipur, I fell in love with the vivid colored saris, which inspired my spring color palette. Thus, Rhapsody in Bloom came to life in rich silks, delicate chiffons and embroidered lace, with delicious accents of handcrafted embellishments.

Lyra Mag: What can we really look forward to in this collection?

LANA: My debut collection for Spring 2009 is splashed with exuberant colors and prints, and is entitled, "Rhapsody In Bloom," It features elegant dresses from day to evening in an array of ultra feminine silhouettes. These timeless pieces are designed to enhance and adorn the beauty and femininity of the woman who wears them.

THE SHOW

The silk and hand embellished gowns and dresses showed of the exquisite detail of her collection. Here are a few we just couldn't help by mention because of their unique touches.

"Capri" - HAND PAINTED devore satin empire baby doll dress in aqua
" Madame Butterfly" - Silk Chiffon HAND PLEATED wrap dress in a white butterfly print
"Debutante" - Brocade butterfly V-NECK CUT OUT SLEEVE flared dress in black
"Ivy" - Organdy applique and chiffon halter BRAIDED empire dress in black/white
"Stella" - FEATHERED mesh halter shift dress in gray
"GiGi" - Feathered mesh and silk chiffon HAND EMBELLISHED empire dress in gray
" Angelique" - Silk Jersey braided tulip sleeve dress in black


For those planning to take a walk down the red carpet, three of the four finale gowns would be perfect choice. We couldn’t stop taking pictures backstage of the taffeta hand embellished mermaid gown in pink.

End note: Lana Fuch's debut received a standing ovation and the support of celebrities; Joel Madden, LA Laker Lamar Odom, Angela Simmons, Vanessa Simmons and stylist George Blodwell. Add to that America’s Next Top Model winners Nicole Linkletter and Salesha Stowers were among models that presented this very talked about collection on the runway.

For more information, visit www.lanafuchs.com
or www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyTrHCj96e4&feature=email
to watch the runway show.

INJINJI® SKI/SNOWBOARD SNOW SOCKS and KAHTOOLA® SNOWSHOES

WINTER SPORTS MADE FUN WITH NEW APPAREL AND EQUIPMENT

November 10, 2008

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images courtesy of Respective Companies

A bushwhack hike in the northern Catskill Mountains was a challenge...with the top half of the mountain covered in two feet of packed and powder snow.


Fortunately, we got to demo new to the market INJINJI SKI/SNOWBOARD Socks (part of the Snow Series Performance Toesocks), and the ultra-light KAHTOOLA step-in FLIGHTdeck™ TS Showshoes on this outing…and are happy with the performance aspects of both kicker accoutrements.

INJINJI™ SNOWSOCKS:

We’ve been running in our 5-toe (patented) design Injinji socks with happy results. Though the unique five toe sleeve design took about three jogs to get used to, the seamless construction kept our toes moisture free. We even felt our digits were more properly balancing our bodies with each step as the socks are anatomically designed for right and left feet.













Makes sense since the company itself is motivated by active types - who care about friction and resulting blisters.
The new Injinj® Snow socks (MSRP $24) are ‘equipped’ with the AIS: technology (Anatomical Interface System) that’s soft, comfy inside our hiking boots, light weight, and breathable (Coomax™ equipped). We really felt a noticeable difference in our hiking/heel to toe motion up the mountain.

Plus the X-Static Silver inner lining acted to keep our toes warm (and apparently reduces odors though we didn’t take a whiff).

And by the 7th hour of our outdoor adventure, we were very glad to have the over the calf, second skin Injinji socks on---- versus our usual bunched up by now hiking socks.
INFO AND RETAIL AVAILABILITY ONLINE: INJINJI

KAHTOOLA FLIGHTdeck™TS SNOWSHOES

Kahtoola, (means direct in Tibetan language) is a company that gets outdoor enthusiasts to where they want to go.

















The company’s new FLIGHTdeck™TS SNOWSHOES are step-ins for powder conditions, and a durable, adjustable, traction system (via Hypalon® decking and stainless steel cleats)… that fits shoes or boots... for ice and packed snow. We had no problem clicking in half way up the mountain where the snow got deep…and were REALLY GRATEFUL we had the pair we tried out, the TS 23 model that’s geared towards fitness types— (8 X 23” - 59 oz / pair).

The flexibility of the Kahtoola snowshoes to adapt to snow conditions is critical and really makes a huge difference… as we didn’t have to stop and switch ped coverings with the varying conditions.

Hallelujah.

And our fellow hikers were VERY JEALOUS.

Also available is the TS24 uni-sex (women’s 5.5-men’s 14) model for hiking and exploring (it’s slightly larger at 8.5 X 24” - 64 oz/pair)

INFO: KAHTOOLA SNOWSHOES

RETAIL: $269... widely available online and in stores across the globe.

SHAMAN CHOCOLATES: “GOOD FOR THE SOUL”

TASTY ORGANIC AND FAIR TRADE CERTIFIED™ TREATS THAT GIVE BACK

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images from the Shaman Chocolate website


Holiday festivities that span Halloween through New Years’ weeks - provide an annual pass Go and indulge/gift card to all sorts of sweet behaviors.

For us, we like to tempt our palate (who doesn’t) but knowing that dark chocolate yields cardio-vascular benefits and that all proceeds from the sales of the socially responsible gourmet Shaman Chocolates- are used to support and protect the Central Mexican Huichol Indian culture…

Well who can resist?

BACKSTORY: According to a press release “…for more than 30 years, Brant Secunda and the Dance of the Deer Foundation Center for Shamanic Studies have worked to support the economic and cultural survival of the traditional Huichol Indians.”

An ‘adopted’ grandson, Secunda has seen the often destructive forces of modern life on the ancient ceremonial and healing traditions of his ‘family’ - considered the last tribe in North America to have maintained their pre-Columbian traditions.

Via donated time of Secunda’s students, Shaman Chocolates is a thriving business that gives back to the Huichols “in appreciation for the beauty and power this tradition has brought to their lives.” One recent project that benefited from sales, for example, - is a new high school building in a Huichol village- so that children can attend a geographically accessible facility.

THE CHOCOLATES: Available in several flavors (Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate With Raspberries, Dark Chocolate with Coconut, Milk Chocolate, Milk Chocolate with Hazelnuts) …the sacred “Food of the Gods” are all made from the finest quality certified organic and Fair Trade chocolates blended with the best organic ingredients.







We devoured our samples on a respite during a challenging mountain hike and savored every bite- but not before admiring the colorful artwork and imagery that adorns the outfits of the Huichol Indians pictured on the new wrappers.

The super high quality of the deluxe chocolates is obvious at first nibble…right up there with some of the top (pricey) French chocolates we’ve sampled.

RETAIL: Approximately $3 for a 2 oz. bar.














INFO: FAIR TRADE CERTIFIED
SHAMAN CHOCOLATES
877.990.3337

THE JUNKO YOSHIOKA FALL 2009 BRIDAL COLLECTION

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Richard Spiegel
October, 2008 – The NY Bridal Shows

The grandeur of the Essex House’s Salon was the perfect backdrop events that would warrant a bride wearing one of Ms. Yoshioka’s gowns.

SNOW WHITE
We were previously unfamiliar with this designer, and the first thing that struck us was the blizzard of the whitest white he used, in contrast to many designers who opt solely for “eggshell” and “cream".

SHAPES DETAILING

There was a crumb catcher bodice as well as strapless and some interesting strap treatments – straps made out of tulle tied in a bow at the top of the shoulder.

There were ruffles as on the RTW runway, but these were tastefully done ie: in small does, as in asymmetrically running across the bodice or from the hip to the ground, again asymmetrically.
There was ruching here too – this season designers were partial to ruching along the back of what was another wise “plain “gown.
The low waisted modified mermaid gown would be flattering to many different body types, especially for those who don’t possess a wasp waist.
Ms. Yoshioka thought beyond the last wedding dance, she even provided a smart A-line coat [robe] with a satin charmeuse short to wear after the last guest departs.
BEST
Exit #6 – the cream strapless Mikado modified mermaid gown with double face satin trapunto stitch banding at the bodice. It isn’t often that we see trapunto, the only other place we can recall - Ralph Rucci’s RTW and Couture collections.

ACCESSORIES, HAIR & MAKEUP

The hair team exercised some creativity and worked with each model’s individual hair, ranging from a low chignon to a conical Marge Simpson beehive, which looked strangely becoming and added a little extra edge. The classic diamond jewelry, chandelier earrings, Victoria Beckham super size rings and diamond chokers were a good accompaniment to the gowns.

To see more from the collection, visit the official website,
www.junkoyoshioka.com

WHAT TO DO ABOUT GIFTING IN THE RECESSION: MORE ON JONO’S HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, courtesy of Jono Productions

TIME & PLACE: Gary’s Loft 28, 28 West 36th, the Penthouse
November 5, 2008

WHAT: A fair featuring top brands that give you an opportunity to do one-stop holiday shopping. Super stylist, STACY LONDON, host of TLC's “What Not to Wear” helped put this together with PR powerhouse Jono, the man behind Jono Productions.

It’s that time again – the Holidays, and the requisite gift giving. Most of us will be cutting back on the number of people on our Santa list and probably on the $ amount too.
That DOESN’T MEAN you still can’t get some great gifts, and you won’t have to trek to the mall and fight over parking to get any of these great suggestions.
Below is the second installment of some suggestions for what to buy and stay within a shoestring budget. It’s our short list of some well-priced but very useable gifts. NO, Dad or your boyfriend don’t need or want another tie, unless the label reads “Hermes”.
The following will make put a smile on just about everyone who’s on your list and not leave YOU with a credit card bill in January that makes you want to go into hiding until spring.

ON THE SHORT LIST

SAVON DE MARSEILLES
[This line made BOTH of our short lists]
You’ve no doubt heard of this line, it’s huge and has been around since 1990.
We’re avowed fans of “the version originale collection”. Everyone loves the two times less fragrances they use – black jasmine and incense lavender, for their soothing qualities. Combine that with some good old fashioned ancestral savoir-faire and authentic materials, and you’ll feel as if you’re relaxing in Provence.
OUR PICKS:
-Cube of Marseille Soap – it’s made in one of the last remaining Marseille soap factories in the century old manner with vegetable oils in a caldron.
This hefty 5.2 oz. Cube of soap comes in at a mere $7.
-Liquid Soap with olive Oil –
This naturally glycerined soap comes in an attractive 16.9 oz. Glass bottle pump.
Price: $30, a bargain considering it will last well past the Holidays are over.

To shop, visit www.lcdpmarseille-usa.com



VIOLIGHT’s ZAPI TOOTHBRUSH SANITIZER

For the CLEAN FREAK on your list – of any age, this is a winner.
The battery operated Zapi uses UV light to clean your toothbrush in 6 minutes flat. We loved the bright colors, but the white works for the minimalist on your list.
Price Tag: $29.99
Available at Target and Brookstone, and on the web, www.violight.com

CLEANUP – ANTI-LANDMINE SOAP
There’s bound to be someone on your list who is cause-driven, but also enjoys the little luxuries in life.
Hideaki Matsui, a Parsons Grad Student is responsible for conceiving and designing Cleanup as his senior thesis project.
This soap is formed in the shape of landmines. The proceeds are used to raise funds for landmine removal, survivor assistance, and to promote awareness of the global landmine crisis.

OUR CHOICE: Clean Up Soap in Coconut for $8

To read more and to order, visit www.cleanupsoap.com

TRANCE ESSENCE
It may not be the most original idea to gift someone a candle, but you can never have enough, and there IS a difference between candles.

This Ohai based company is the brainchild of creator/perfumer, Janna Sheehan who was tired of developing a headache when she put fragrance on, enough so that she created her own line of candles and fragrance using essential oils.
There were 6 fragrances on the table, but our favorite was “GENIE IN A BOTTLE”, inspired by a Moroccan nightclub in the summer. It’s composed of wild ginger, red and yellow mandarin, lemongrass, lily, and spearmint, which result in an aura that’s subtle and delicate.
Each fragrance is available as an Eau de Parfum, Perfume Oil Roll On and candle.
We left with a 6.5 –ounce Genie in a Bottle Candle that we were told would be exceptionally long lasting.
PRICE: $50
Available at Fred Segal in Santa Monica, CA and on line.
To read more about the other fragrances, visit www.tranceessence.com


NATURE’S CANDY DESIGNS [“Green” jewelry, no “dirty gold” here!]
Who SAYS you can’t give real jewelry without breaking the bank?
Our Pick: The Assorted Elements Necklace. These necklaces exclusively use recycled gold and silver.
Inspiration: the ancient Greek philosophers who believed that everyone falls under one of the earth’s elements” ie: earth, wind, fire & water.
As a Cancer, our sign is water. We picked up a silver string necklace with tiny rough sapphires on it.
Price tag: $30
To see more of what’s in stock, visit,
www.naturescandydesigns.com
For more information on taking a “no dirty gold” oath, visit www.nodirtygold.org


OVAL STRUCTURED VODKA
Their motto: “Structured for smoothness?
Don’t worry; you don’t have to have a degree in chemistry to understand this. Most vodka is distilled multiple times and according to manufacturers, is “smoother” after each distillation. OVAL’s patented technology redefines the current vodka category. It is chemically bonded, [the water and alcohol are bonded together] which means it retains a bit of the flavor note, but it’s devoid of unpleasant “bite” even those pricey vodkas sometimes have.
In honor of the recent Elections, why not try “the Oval Office” cocktail?
RECIPE:
1 1/2 oz. OVAL Vodka
1/4 oz. Cognac
1/4 oz. Splash Lime Jice
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
1 oz. Ginger Ale
For additional information, visit www.ovalvodka.com

ABSINTHE MATA HARI – a “Bohemian” absinthe
Here’s one for the French Romantics and history buffs on your list. Artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Toulouse Lautrec and Ernest Hemmingway were fans. French writer Baudelaire, famously drank and died of over indulging in the then poisonous Absinthe.
Never fear, this absinthe is safe AND tastes a whole lot better than the traditional heavy style French absinthe, which has a heavy licorice taste. Despite being of the “Bohemian variety”, it’s still green and 120 proof.
SERVING SUGGESTION: Mix 1 part absinthe with 4 parts water and enjoy!
For more information, visit
www.AbsintheMataHari.com

PSYCHEDELIC FUR DOGWEAR
Their motto: “Pet Fashions and Accessories to Make Your Pet ROCK!”
So, you think your dog is spoiled? It’s not spoiled enough until it’s been gifted one of the latest designs on this line.
Sizing is democratic, the “I’m With the Band” Tees area available in a full range of sizes. Your pet can be a groupie for anyone of the following iconic bands: BONE Jovi, MUTTallica, The Beagles, and Notorious D.O.G., to name just a few.

Our Pick: the “Walk this Way: leather and faux-leather motorcycle jacket that’s so cute we’re thinking of picking it up for one of our cats as we don’t [yet] have a Chihuahua in residence.
PRICE: @ $80
To shop, visit www.psychedelicfur.com

PATYKA: STORE OPENING CELEBRATION

ECO SKIN & BODYCARE="BEAUTY IS ORGANIC"

33 Carmine Street, New York
November 6th-7PM



Yeah, we are always willing to test drive new skincare products that are anointed with the European labels Eco Cert and Cosmètique Bio…especially ones handsomely packaged (shatterproof) … that we can toss in our gym bag.

We had no idea how big the French line Patyka has grown product-wise… since we reviewed it’s USA debut last year at the housewares emporium Ochre.



Now the 450 sq. foot jewel of a boutique that stocks the complete line of skincare and perfumes by Patyka (Hungarian for apothecary) –with a treatment space in the back…is reason to celebrate.



When we got there the place was jammed with black clad beauty fanatics sipping Champagne and sampling the goods.
















The full fledged brand now includes an aromatic Family Body and Family Face Lines that includes Gel Douche Bio (shower gel $14.00) in wakeup natural spearmint and mandarin orange, Rosemary Shampoo ($14.00), and healing Rosewood Body Cream ($16.00).


And the plastic user friendly, uni-sex squeeze bottles that are available in the Family Line- should help Patyka make headways in the crowded beauty space. And we note, the ingredients are petroleum, parabens, PEG, silicone and phenoxyethanol FREE!













We tried out the 100% Organic Shea Butter ($12.95) toute de suite- as we generously slathered on the creamy easy to apply salve on our hair, elbows, hands and heels before a stint in a steamroom.

Ten minutes later, we hosed down---and appreciably noticed the silky smooth results on our skin…and the soft to the touch feel of our hair once it dried.



INFO: PATYKA

AQUA – VI SPRING 2009

PREMIUM LIFESTYLE BRAND CHANNELS CALIFORNIA DREAMING

Words-Judith Ecochard

Lian Murray toiled at surf wear giants Billabong USA and Hurley International before taking a break from the retail biz.

But she (and Ziggy Williams) gathered their creative forces together to launch one of our favorite new lines Aqua-VI. Today, Zech Francis is the creative director and Lian Murray is overall creative/CEO/Owner…turning out the fiercest graphics on tees and apparel---on premium fabrics--- we have seen on the market today.

We lived in one of Aqua -VI super soft, extra long fitted tees-all summer.


For Spring 2009, Aqua-VI has expanded its lineup of tees and racer back tanks for gals and boardshorts, modern polos, t-shirts (crew and v-neck)…and beanies and caps for guys…for the surf/skate crowd that’s grown up.

And for the rest of us who just want to look hipper than thou.
INFO: AQUA VI

HOLIDAY GIFT FAIR-THE PRACTICAL AND THE COVETED

Gary’s Loft 28 West 36th Street, 3PM- November 5th

Judith Ecochard-Words and Images and Images from Company Websites

Still buzzing from the Election night festivities, a packed house of fashion types managed to buzz about something else…the most wanted gift picks in a mean economy.

The diverse assortment of companies with their wares on display served up something for everyone.

But we zeroed in on a few that spans the desired spectrum at all price points.


CALLAWAY GOLF:

Tucked away in a corner…the display of women’s of clubs from Callaway Golf had our hearts palpitating, as we are HUGE golfers.

Bummer we couldn’t demo anything but the putter… yet we still loved the feel of the technologically advanced FT (Fusion Technology) Irons, and the all titanium head Big Bertha Driver that’s the first driver designed specifically for a women’s game.

BRAVO:

The Callaway Golf Foundation Women’s Cancer Initiative Foundation-aimed at raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer – has introduced a limited edition (1000 - signed!) teal version of the FT-I Driver ($399).

As noted on Callaway’s website, this driver is “…designed to be the world’s straightest driver” that is forgiving of shots hit allover the club’s face. The physics behind it all is complicated…but trust us, clubs make the difference in the score of one’s games. Plus that 19th Hole is just so much FUN.

Spokeswoman actress Halle Berry is the 2008 ambassador of this worthy cause.

INFO: CALLAWAY GOLF



THE ART OF SHAVING:

Any guy-from Joe the Misinformed Plumber to Mr. Metrosexual will be very happy to see a black box containing anything from The Art of Shaving (like a Tiffany Blue Box).

For the holidays, The Fusion Chrome Collection Power Kit will do. It’s a handsome package of “the world’s most technologically advanced razor, the Fusion Chrome Collection Power Razor”… collaboration with Gilette… encased in a sleek travel kit. ($150).

So why the price tag? The black matte and polished chrome razor is perfectly weighted, has gentle micro-pulses to reduce friction and increase razor glide, and has a built-in spotlight for those under the chin shadows. Cool.
THE ART OF SHAVING

HILLHOUSE NATURALS:

This collection of luxuriously scented diffusers beckoned us from across the room. Seriously

We are naturally picky about aromas and feel so many American products are so yucky artificially enhanced…we might as well be sniffing some toxic chemical brew.

What a delight to discover HILLHOUSE NATURALS- a Kentucky based home fragrance company that was founded by mother/daughter farmers… and has gradually blossomed into an enterprising business that employs the locals.

Heart warming stories aside, the quality of the products and elegance of the festive packaging of the Holiday Living Green Collection of diffusers and natural soy candles ($12-$42)- is what gets to us. We inhaled the essential oils’ laden Spiced Pear (Cinnamon and Clove Leaves)…and we were instantly calmed and revived.

Other scents available are Balsam Wreath (Fir Balsam, Orange Oil) and Cinnabark (Cedarwood, Cinnamon Bark, Olibanum Resin).

We are impressed. Plus an entire assortment of well-priced body creams and cleansers, sachets, parfum, and laundry soaps are available too.
HILLHOUSE NATURALS

LA COMPAGNIE DE PROVENCE-MARSEILLE:

Organic and Eco-Certified (a European standard that is the highest), the made in France LCDPBIO collection of Extra Pure skincare treatments from La Compagnie De Provence MARSEILLE- are made from only the finest ingredients.

The natural vegetable-based soap bars, for example- are made from top quality palm and coprah oils and are free of animal fats and synthetic surface-active agents. Plus moisturizing hand crèmes, body Milk lotions and liquid soaps round out the offerings… and are available in heavenly Lavender or Verbena scents derived from 100% natural organic essential oils. ($11-$28). Any host will welcome these stocking stuffers.


EXTRA: The striking modern packaging is recycle-able. Très BIOCHIC!

INFO: LCPDBIO


CALVIN KLEIN’S EUPHORIA and HARAJUKU LOVERS FRAGRANCES

Granted, buying fragrances for someone else is a tough call.

But there are many reasons to gift EUPHORIA and HARAJUKU LOVERS scents.

With top notes of pomegranate, persimmon and lush green notes, the intoxicating Euphoria is an exotic oriental fragrance that comes in a sexy curved amethyst bottle designed by the famed designer Fabien Baron.

SPECIAL PROMOTION: At Macy’s-in-store customers who purchase the 3.4 oz bottle of Euphoria or Euphoria Blossom women’s fragrance will receive a gift card redeemable for a gourmet box of chocolates from RICHART Chocolates.

INFO: CALVIN KLEIN FRAGRANCE

Adorableness is defined by HARAJUKU LOVERS fragrances aka “A fatal attraction to cuteness”

Super cute in frilly bottles- that are power popped colored personality powered dolls, the five scents are surprisingly sophisticated – not tutti frutti.

Can’t decide what to get---the website has a drop down box quiz to match up the intended with the right aroma.


ADDED PLUS: Each doll is housed in a glossy black on black scallop patterned carton featuring the Harajuku Lovers logo in tones distinctive to each girl.

TAGLINE: ”You got the wicked style. I like the way that you are. I am your biggest fan.”

INFO: HARAJUKU LOVERS FRAGRANCE











JUST-BE™ ORGANIC T-SHIRTS

With a theme of Be____ (Natural, Organic, Kissable, Dignified etc)…this Vermont based line of 100% organic tees and apparel designed by founder Michelle Pratt-Lienhart- aims to create an open online community of caring individuals via her apparel line JB Just Be.™

















Already a hit with concerned celeb parents like Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon, and Courney Cox and David Arquette, the line of 4.4 oz combed ring spun %100 organic cotton tees or men, women and kids, are super soft and stylish.

Although Pratt-Lienhart herself clued us in that the guy’s Be Green is the biggest seller, we love the Black Be Punk ourselves.

PRICES: $11 for onsies to $20 for T-shirts.

INFO: JB-JUST BE

The JULIA CLANCEY spring 2009 Presentation at Smashbox Studios

Text, Casi Densmore-Koon
Edited by Vivian G. Kelly
Images, courtesy of Ming Han Chung



DATE:
Monday October 13th @ 6pm

Day Two of LA Fashion Week

We sat elbow to elbow in the hottest tent in Smashbox Studios listening to jazz waiting for the "Un Petit quelque chose" Collection to go off. Finally, forty five minutes later the British Opera Star, Summer, started the show.

SHOW THEME
" This selection of desirables takes one from the marina of St.Tropez, the red carpet of Cannes and sunset cocktails of Muscat…”

ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Julia Clancey is a London based designer who established her name as a stylist prior to starting her own label. Her signature style is an iconic blend of classic glamour and glitz.
Her style was evident throughout a collection of designs that were about empowered femininity and classic elegance.
The collection touched on styles from the forties to the seventies We loved the modernized flapper silhouette – a drop waist cocktail dresses with satin sash belts and short hemlines. The kaftans were delicately embroidered and trimmed in gold and silver and can effortlessly flatter anyone. The brighter palette consists of tropical turquoise, papaya, jade and strawberry.

OF SPECIAL NOTE:

Swarovski Studded Mini Shifts
- Low plunging neckline gowns
- Dramatic billowing sleeves
- The Accessories! There were big Sunglasses, signature beaded belts, oversized sash bows, & even a bejeweled mask

To learn more about Julia Clancey, visit the website, www.juliaclancey.com

ROMONA KEVEZA’S fall 2009 Bridal Collections –

Text, Vivian G. Kelly
Images, Richard Spiegel


TIME & PLACE
October 2008 – Bridal Fashion Week in New York,
Midtown, at The Palace Hotel, Madison Avenue
The 1:00PM presentation
LEGENDS – The Hero Bridal Collection.
Let’s make a toast to Ms. Keveza’s “UNDERSTATED STYLING AT REASONABLE PRICES [$2,000 –3000].
Now more than ever, it’s all about the Legends [lower-priced] line.
For @ $1,600, you can pick up an entire bridal ensemble.
Romona started with her intro, which is so helpful as it eliminates the need to chase down a designer before or after the show to ask the usual questions concerning inspiration and vision.
Romona got right to the point and addressed “The nervousness going around the industry “, and even mentioned the Lehman Brothers' crisis. On the day Lehman crashed, her sales team did a record number of sales.
Quipped the designer, “These brides are still getting married, but they may be saying to themselves, ‘Well, I don’t really need that Louis Vuitton bag.’”
She attributed the 30 - 40% gain she’s experienced this year to her “unostentatious bridal gowns”. Why rub an ostentatious show of wealth into the have-nots faces? Gone are the days of Louis Roeder champagne and caviar at bridal receptions.

RTW & BRIDAL
What struck us about this bridal season was that now more than in previous seasons, there were numerous parallels between the two. There were asymmetric hemlines, natural waists, pleating, draping as at the RTW shows.


THE LEGENDS SHOW
Fabrics were soft, in raw nearly unadorned shantung taffeta, in various tones of cream, gold, and platinum. The only ornamentation was the pleated “crumb catcher bodice on one, some very light floral lace detailing on one hem and the pleated bust and waists on a few others.
The silhouettes were soft, as in A-lines with forgiving dropped waists. For the bride who wants to show off her taut figure, there are slim trumpet dresses in a halter shape or strapless with lace overlay [something we’ve seen a great deal of for the spring 2009 RTW season.]

WAIST WHITTLER
The criss cross treatment on some dresses and the pleated wide waists and wide same color bests served to create a nipped in midriff.




THE EXTRAS
Fittingly, although there were veils, they were pinned onto a low bun and the strappy sandals were simple satin crisscross heels that could be anything from Payless to Manolo.

ROMONA KEVEZA COUTURE
You COULD call this collection “bridal” but what we saw was more like some good options for the Red Carpet. Many of the styles were presented in photogenic colors such as celadon, ice blue with red and black as options.
The fluted silk shantung taffeta gown with a ruffled one-shoulder neckline is certainly an option for an important evening, and not necessarily your wedding.


STRICTLY BRIDAL BUT WITH A RTW SPIRIT

The satin chiffon goddess gowns in which the glossy sheen served as the only “decoration” was one of the strongest in the show. Best about thee gowns were the RTW touches such as the one-shoulder neckline and draped waist.
With this gown, you won’t need a veil, just the detachable shoulder tails that add a little drama to the dress.

COUTURE TOUCHES
Dozens and dozens of floral appliqués on a tulle skirt, the huge feather and tulle camellia on a tulle pique overlay.

To view more of Romona Keveza’s designs, visit her official website,
www.romonakeveza.com

SOME HOLIDAY PICKS - AFFORDABLE GIFTS

ITEMS TO GIVE and GET.

Yup, we are all counting our dollars and Euros for the Holidays. But scaling back does not mean compromise when it comes to presents that are desirable and useful.

POP The Goddess Clutch ($32)

A makeup clutch that works on its own when empty--- or is an easy toss into the roomy satchels gals haul around that contain their lives---and that need to include must have glossy essentials. Like - eight eye shadows, a moisturizing lipgloss, and sheer cheek glows.

















SUNDARI’s GIFT SETS ($42)

We are fans of this healing/balancing/holistic line of treatment products that’s based on Ayurvedic principles.

Even non-believers of all ages will appreciate the three handsomely packaged groupings geared for three major skin types COMMITMENT=healing, PERSERVERANCE= ultra-moisturizing, DEDICATION=firming). An aromatic votive is included.

SUNDARI













LA LICIOUS SOUFFLÉ SAMPLERS ($30)

Stocking stuffers do not get much better than this natural based body care scrubs that’s free of parabens and uses natural cane sugar instead of abrasive salts in its scrubs. Available in 8 delish scents (our favs are Lily Mango and Coffee)- La Licious Soufflés can be customized in a nifty three pack---for that special someone…or you.


LA LICIOUS

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images from D2 Publicity

A CONVERSATION WITH DICK PAGE AT SHISEIDO’S PERFECT ROUGE LIPSTICK LAUNCH

Advertisement shot by Nick Knight

75 Varick Street, NYC November 3rd, 7:00 PM


We always relish a chance to catch a few moments in time with creative souls.
Luckily, we got Dick Page, the Creative Director of Shiseido The Makeup-to ourselves before hordes of fans descended on the man responsible for the most awesome color palette of “runway” and “surprising lipsticks" we’ve ever seen in one setting.

And Page also magically conjures up those magical makeup efforts for models strutting their stuff for major designers like Michael Kors and Mark Jacobs.

Appropriately, the British born makeup guru has a painter’s eye for tones. What surprised us was his democratic view on what women wear.

Like when we asked him if there was anything women do via lipstick applications that are decidedly “do nots”…he swiftly said “…absolutely not.” Elaborating a bit on this thesis, he felt there were no rules, that what women put on their faces is “an expression of who they are.”

How refreshing.

THE LAUNCH:
Fortified by tasty treats from Fatty Crab, we offered up our puckers for a test drive of the new lipstick Perfect Rouge. Our pick, #514 Dragon Lady, went on smoothly, is moisture rich, and the best part—loaded with micro-pigments to guarantee truly dense color without a yuck feeling.

Christina Carey-Model of Shiseido's Perfect Rouge





We chatted with another Shiseido makeup artist about the neutral mouth/ smoky eye look that has dominated visages for the past few seasons. We always felt those beigey pinks lip tinges drained us.

Her reply…was that Shiseido’s Perfect Rouge lipsticks are so true to their color…that the inherent tone of our lips won’t show through…and that is what changes the color of lipsticks and makes us appear like we had a date with Dracula.

So with Shiseido’s Perfect Rouge options…what you see is what you get.

INFO: After 18 month development period—the lipsticks hit retail shelves in February 2009 in the USA…January 1st in Japan..


SHISEIDO
Words, Images Judith Ecochard and Courtesy of Shiseido

EXPO EAST-NATURAL PRODUCTS - SUSTAINABLE INGREDIENTS

HIGHLIGHTS FROM OCTOBER 2008

Words, Judith Ecochard, Images from the Company Websites

In a previous clip, we noted some of our favorite picks from the large East Coast confab of all things eco.

Additions to our list…




OLIV’

Eco Cert ® anointed- an European organization with the highest standards, this anti-oxidant organic skincare line with olive leaf extract has a slew of highly moisturizing (and effective) creams and cleansers.

We tried the Soins Mains Hydratant (Moisturizing Hand Cream) that sunk right into our skin, repaired our peeling cuticles and chapped paws...leaving behind a light scent and no grease. This is one of the best moisturizers we have ever tried as it lasted for hours – we didn’t feel the need to slather up which we usually do like clockwork...

INFO: LA CLARÉE

ONE BAG AT A TIME

This is one of those great ideas that we are happy is working.

Founded by Lisa Forster, One Bag At A Time is a line of durable, re-usable bags – often branded with a customized logo-that replaces the plastic and paper bags that eventually clog up landfills worldwide.

Made from 100% non-woven polypropylene (PP or #5)-the bags are recycle-able, non-toxic, allergy free, and non-reactive to human skin and food.

Debuting at Expo East was the 100% biodegradable Jute bag-made from the organic jute plant- that’s not lined with anything…unlike some competitors that have plastic interiors.


We appreciated the bottom stiffner and long shoulder straps (the perfect size) in all samples we tried.

And the bag we got- hauled (held) 6 pounds of stuff. Whew.

INFO: ONE BAG AT A TIME







PEACEKEEPER™CAUSE METICS™"

Peacekeeper, Jody R. Weiss' gift to beauty junkies who care- is a winning collection of natural lip paints and glosses, nail paints and nail oil that amazingly donates ALL OF ITS PROFTS after taxes- to women’s health and human rights advocacy issues.

We zeroed in on the nail paints that are ranked the cleanest paint-based nail paint by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and the Environmental Working Group. Loaded with healing Argan Oil from Turkey,


...the nail paints come in all the hip colors (like a berry Paint Me Grateful and pink Paint Me Tranquil) and BUT WITHOUT the creepy ingredients like Toluene, Formaldehyde, Acetone, Phthalates, Parabens or FD&C Coloring.

INFO: PEACEKEEPER 1.866.PEACE36






LASTLY:
We ate our way through aisles of food…


SNIKIDDY®
What we liked the most included the deliciously crunchy, good for us, kid friendly Snikiddy® Mac n' Cheese Puffs. Made with pure ingredients (real cheese, butter, whole wheat flour and unrefined cane sugar) these addictive snacks join a bunch of other flavors like Grilled Cheese and Pizza Pie. Snikiddy® also has a line of vitamin infused cookies in Chocolate Chippers, Cherry Oaties, and Banana Nibbles flavors.

INFO: SNIKIDDY®












FOODSHOULDTASTEGOOD®
Well, definitely scoring points in the no-brainer name category, FoodShouldTasteGood®, a company with a winning motto- satisfied our 4PM munchies with baked, perfectly crackly chips made from the highest quality, all-natural ingredients.

Available in seven different varieties: Chocolate, Multigrain, Buffalo, Jalapeno, Sweet Potato, Olive and The Works! (that combines some of the most flavorful ingredients—minced onion, garlic, poppy and caraway seeds—into a single chip).

We can eat just about anything-but we jazzed to know FoodShouldTaste Good chips are gluten and cholesterol-free, made without trans fats or genetically modified ingredients, are certified Kosher and lower in sodium.

Munch On.
INFO: FOODSHOULDTASTEGOOD


AMAZING GRASS GREEN SUPERFOOD
We have a tendency to be arch a skeptical brow when it comes to all sweeping Super claims.
But we’ve been mixing up the company’s surprisingly palatable Berry Green Superfood (available at Whole Foods) with Smabazon® Acai, a purple berry that flavors this powder -we mixed water.

It’s a natural de-toxer- loaded with antioxidants, healthy omega fats, fiber and protein and is equivalent to 5-9 daily servings of fruits and vegetables.

Well, we haven’t had as much as a sniffle---so who knows?

But even nay-sayers have to agree…there is nothing wrong with boosting one’s liquids and the advantages of said fluids.

A smart idea that does not make us gag.
AMAZING GRASS