Out of the ordinary: Sylvio Giardina

In the fashion world, it’s always refreshing to see something new and bold and out of the ordinary. Over the years, designers have been pushing the boundaries of fashion coming up with artistic and avant garde pieces inspired by anything and everything under the sun. Just when you think there’s nothing left to invent, something emerges to surprise you.

Staying true to the concept of being fashion forward is Sylvio Giardina. The autumn / winter 2012-13 look book is a treat for all senses showcasing different shapes, colors and textures. The pieces range from playful to a bit more sophisticated but they all have one thing in common: they are made to truly make heads turn.

Scouting Report

 If you’re feeling pressed for cash after the gifting season and looking to unwind with a movie in a dark theater, the Leonard Nimoy Thalia-Symphony Space is screening “DIANA VREELAND: THE EYE HAS TO TRAVEL” on Sunday at 2 and 6 p.m. at the reduced price of $8. Lisa Immordino Vreeland’s adoring hour-and-a-half-long portrait of her grandmother-in-law has met with critical acclaim since its premiere at the Venice Film Festival last year. Tickets at Goldstar.com/events/new-york-city-ny/diana-vreeland-the-eye-has-to-travel. At 2537 Broadway, between West 94th and 95th Streets. ... “IVY STYLE,” an exhibition that looks at how campus fashion has migrated from the classroom to the mainstream (think Ralph Lauren, Gant), is at the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology until Jan. 5. At Seventh Avenue at 27th Street, (212) 217-4558. Fitnyc.edu for more information.

ANTHEM WARES, an e-commerce site that sells tough-to-find independent labels and items by artisan designers, is marking down selected men’s and women’s accessories by 50 percent, including handbags by Seth Sobek and scarves by Etudes. The sale lasts through January, with new items added regularly; anthemwares.com. ... Designer labels including Alexander Wang, Tucker and Suno are up to 60 percent off at any of the three BIRD locations in Brooklyn and on its Web site. Through Jan. 23 at 220 Smith Street, 316 Fifth Avenue and 203 Grand Street; shopbird.com. ... ASSEMBLY NEW YORK is offering 30 percent off fall fashions in-store and online. Discounted brands include A Détacher, Christophe Lemaire, Correll Correll, Black Crane and Mark McNairy, along with the store’s house brand. At 170 Ludlow Street, (212) 253-5393; assemblynewyork.com. ... Anyone who wasn’t able to get his or her hands on a piece from the NEIMAN MARCUS-TARGET collaboration has a second chance, and at a 50 percent savings. Derek Lam skateboards, Tory Burch lunchboxes and Altuzarra cocktail shakers are available at half price with free shipping at target.com. (Some items are available in Target stores.) Stock up on holiday-neutral Rodarte wrapping paper ($3.99) and Jason Wu Christmas ornaments ($24.99 for a set of three) for next year.

K-State, Oregon are opposites when it comes to fashion

Kansas State and Oregon both wear Nike’s signature swoosh, but that’s where the comparisons between their football uniforms end.

They are on opposite ends of the fashion spectrum.

Under Bill Snyder, the Wildcats have worn the same uniforms — silver pants, silver helmet featuring purple and white stripes, and solid white or purple jerseys — without any major modifications since he redesigned them in 1989. He wanted a look that resembled the Dallas Cowboys, and still does.

“We thought we got it right the first time,” Snyder said. “We saw no reason to change them.”

The Ducks take a different approach. They change their uniforms — loud, flashy and trendsetting — every week. Sometimes they wear neon yellow numbers. Sometimes their shoulders feature designs such as wings or spikes. They occasionally wear yellow and green. Other times they wear all black, white or throw in some gray. They have more than 500 combinations to choose from, and pride themselves on never wearing the same thing twice.

Oregon hasn’t unveiled the full uniform it will wear against K-State at the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 3, but bowl representatives have released photos that indicate the numbers will change colors as you look at them from different angles. When the full outfit is released it is sure to be a popular topic among fans on social media.

It always is. Ever since Nike founder and Oregon grad Phil Knight began supplying the athletic department with state-of-the-art apparel, it’s what the Ducks have been best known for. Coincidentally or not, they started winning at the same time they began wearing glitzy uniforms. They gave a recruiting boost, and Oregon is now a regular Pac-12 championship contender on its way to a fourth straight BCS bowl.

Oregon’s rise coincided with its fashion so well that other programs have copied it.

Oklahoma State now changes its uniforms so often that some have called the Cowboys “the Oregon of the Big 12.” Baylor and Maryland mix up their uniforms all the time. Most schools that wear Nike, such as Michigan, Boise State and Missouri, have at least one alternate — or “Pro Combat” — uniform they wear for special games. Adidas-wearing schools such as Nebraska, Wisconsin and Notre Dame do, also. Even teams wearing Under Armour are getting in on the act.

K-State receiver Chris Harper, who transferred from Oregon, has been on both ends of the spectrum. He has worn flashy uniforms and K-State’s classic look. He sees advantages to both, but doesn’t understand why so many schools are copying the Ducks.

“That’s kind of lame to me,” Harper said. “Oregon started that thing. Let them have their thing. Let them be who they are. Every school (is) trying to jump on the bandwagon with different jerseys, too. The thing is nobody can do what Oregon is doing because they have Phil Knight. You don’t have Phil Knight.

“Just be who you are. That’s one thing I like about being out here. We know who we are. You don’t see us jumping out with any ‘Pro Combats’ or new gloves or stuff all the time. We do what we do. We play in games. It’s not about the jerseys, it’s about who plays on the field.”

There is certainly something to be said for a consistent look. Not all new uniforms are good. Maryland and Michigan both received negative reactions for wearing obnoxiously loud jerseys. That’s something Texas, Oklahoma and Penn State don’t have to worry about. They are well known for wearing the same uniforms every time they take the field. Their helmets and jerseys are iconic.

Still, some K-State players would prefer something new.

“I do like the old-school look that coach Snyder brings, but it is becoming a new game,” sophomore center B.J. Finney said. “Some guys would like to see some new uniforms.”

Nike has shown it is willing to provide the Wildcats with new looks. Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams have modified their uniforms in past years. The men’s team currently has four color combinations to choose from, and their jerseys are made of light, state-of-the-art fabric.

Nike could create a new look for the football team with ease, but new football uniforms seem like a pipedream as long as Snyder is in charge.

“He doesn’t change his shoes,” Harper said of his coach. “I doubt he is going to change our uniforms.”

The Wildcats occasionally wore an alternate uniform that featured purple pants under Ron Prince, but the look didn’t go over well. K-State returned to its classic look full time when Snyder came out of retirement.

Oregon has changed its uniforms countless times since. K-State never considered doing the same.

“We know that is never going to happen here,” Finney said. “I’m not too disappointed about it. I like the look that we have.”

West Bloomfield native, former U-M basketball player, launches fashion label dedicated to further education

An Oakland County native known throughout the college basketball world is using his eye for fashion and style to help those trying to better themselves.

David Merritt, 26, a native of West Bloomfield and a graduate and former co-captain of the University of Michigan's men’s basketball team, recently launched his cause-focused fashion label "Merit" on the Internet.

The brand, which launched Nov. 26 and runs through midnight Friday, started with a funding campaign on Indiegogo.com. Designed by Detroit native and NBC reality series “Fashion Star” runner-up Nzimiro Oputa, 20 percent of the revenue will be donated to funding scholarships to the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy in Detroit.

The 2004 West Bloomfield High School graduate, who launched an earlier fashion brand "I Miss You, Inc." or IMU, commented on how his label will have a lasting impact on the education of children.

“We wanted to truly make an impact through the mission of this company," Merritt said. "And we wanted to make that impact on the lives of young people through education. We keep saying our children are our future; however, if we aren’t educating them and providing them with the proper resources and opportunities to be successful, they won’t have a future. There are underserved youth in Detroit and in cities across the nation that with some much needed motivation, and exposure to what is possible, will indeed embrace their education and become world-class citizens. In doing so, they will also earn scholarships to attend colleges of their choice funded through Merit.”

Indiegogo is a crowd funding, web-based global platform similar to Kickstarter, which is used to raise money for an idea, product or cause. The service allows users to contribute to the campaign by purchasing Merit’s debut launch collection on pre-order. Once the funding goal is met, the fashion line will be manufactured. Items that are purchased are then delivered directly to the contributors.

“Fashion Star” runner up Nzimiro Oputa designs received praise from celebrity mentors Jessica Simpson and Nicole Richie. Oputa's designs were also featured and sold in Macy’s and Swedish clothier H&M. The designer’s journey to stems back to his childhood, where he created new designs out of old, hand-me-down clothing.

“I decided to take on designing Merit's launch collection because there's so much selflessness going on with the brand, that it sparked a selfless desire in me as well," Oputa said. "I'm so appreciative of the cause because I'm a product of it. I know what it means to grow up without a world of opportunity around you. So because of what Merit is offering to undeserved youth in Detroit and throughout the country, it was a no brainer for me. Plus, knowing that 20 percent of all revenue will be providing college scholarships made this collaboration that much more fulfilling.”

Merritt’s fashion label has also inked a partnership with another organization dedicated to the further education of children. Treehouse, a web education startup, has recently formed an alliance with Merit. Like Merit, the organization has agreed to teach 22 Detroit high school students through Merit’s FATE program how to design and develop for the Web, iOS and mobile apps by employing their educational platform of using short videos, quizzes and badges.

The program provides resources and opportunities to students that encourages them to embrace education and strive to be world-class citizens. The goal of the program is to expose students from an at-risk community to an institution of higher education and motivate them by partnering with different community, university, and corporate entities to facilitate engaging and interactive workshops. The four-year program will take the 22 selected students from the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy to its university partner, the University of Michigan, one Saturday a month for the duration of their high school career.

Inspired fashion

During our younger days, how many of us actually grew our hair and tossed it back, just like Rajinikanth? Admit it, you would have tried to twist the aviators around and wear it the way he did at least once.

Ever noticed how many youngsters went in for a crew cut immediately after Ghajini?

It’s common knowledge that fashion, style and cinema have an inseparable relationship. This has more to do with the attitude of people look towards their icons for their own personal style quotient.

There have been a number of movie-inspired fashion and style moments. Here are some noticeable ones:

Breakfast at Tiffany’s:

The whole concept of the LBD is said to have evolved from Audrey Hepburn’s look which has remained a classic till today.

Grease:

The musical redefined woman’s fashion and blurred the lines between girl’s and woman’s fashion with the reintroduction of little skirts and short tops. It brought in the girly and cute look displacing the rather mature and lady like look, which was then the acceptable norm.

Matrix:

Matrix is one trilogy that has contributed to fashion in more ways than one. There was a huge surge in the concept of minimalism in fashion after the film’s release, and a craze for patent leather in outerwear as well as small rimmed black glasses and the use of florescent contrasts with solid colours.

Avtar: The Spring/summer of 2010 was dominated by tones of blue. From tones of sky to electric blues to navy, there was also the impact of light denims in mainstream outerwear. Some may argue that the forecast preceded the film’s release but the brilliant blue tones, which evolved into fashion, cannot be discarded entirely.

Thus from Elvis Presley’s hairdo to Harry Potter’s glasses, Marlin Monroe’s mole to James Bond’s impeccable sense of style, followers of fashion and style have always looked towards cinema to fine tune their own sense of style. Closer home, there have been a number of films that were noteworthy in their impact on mainstream fashion such as Bobby from the 1970s), which created a nation-wide flutter in the evolution of Polka dots in regular everyday Indian clothes!

The name Paro can only bring back memories of Aishwarya Rai in Devdas and the way she brought chunky jewellery back into the limelight. Many women were also spotted wearing the Bengali style sari.

This phenomenon is found more in India than in world fashion, with certain cuts getting a filmy name like “Chandini” suits, for starters!

McComb named Outstanding Art Teacher

Hayes Intermediate School art teacher Camilla McComb has a philosophy about art she wants her students to learn and carry with them through life.

"I want people to understand that human beings are intrinsically artistic people," she said. ""I want to instill in my fifth- and sixth-grade students the notion of thinking of themselves as artists."

McComb is the 2012 recipient of the Ohio Art Education Association's central region Outstanding Art Teacher award.

"It was a huge surprise to receive the award and what is also surprising to me is the fuss everyone is making about it," she said.

McComb was presented the award last month at the OAEA conference in Cincinnati.

"To be honored in front of my peers was special," she said.

Art education is important not only to help students develop their artistic skills but to learn how to think as artists, McComb said.

"A lot of people have great ideas, but they don't know how to execute them," she said.

Sadly, many adults she talks to answer in the negative when she asks them if they are artists, McComb said.

Too many people think of art only in terms of a finished product like a painting, she said.

In fact, we are all artists, whether it's using a paintbrush, decorating a room or picking out what we're going to wear for a night out, McComb said.

Research shows that students in the grades she teaches -- fifth and sixth -- begin having a "crisis of confidence," and that impacts their artistic thinking, she said.

"All of my fifth-grade students think they are artists," McComb said. "But by sixth grade they're becoming super aware that people are watching them and many of them start hiding their drawings and comparing their work to other students' " who might be "good at art."

"So much of their life is rule-bound and product-driven," McComb said. "They take standardized tests and even on the video games they play, the path is dictated. The great thing about art is that you don't have to be rule-bound," she said. "In art, you have so many avenues you can choose."

To help her students think as artists, McComb has them use her "Artistic Thinking Checklist," which includes eight steps to thinking about art.

"Making art is only one-eighth of the equation," she said.

She has her students take photographs to document their artistic thinking as they work through a project.

A Grove City High School graduate, McComb has spent most of her career teaching in South-Western schools.

"I was always interested in art and my mother encouraged me by taking me to (an arts and crafts store) on weekends," she said. "I really give her credit for helping to develop my interest"

But the idea of being an artist was something McComb never seriously considered growing up.

"I come from a family of entrepreneurs, and there was the question of how could you really make a living as an artist," she said.

"I was majoring in business in college and not doing very well, when I made some friends who were art education majors and they suggested that was a field I might want to consider," McComb said.

Teaching art has been a joy, she said.

The blessing for her is to have the opportunity to help shape and inspire her students' thinking about what it means to be an artist, McComb said.

Duo have designs on east coast

They wowed local fashionistas with their designs at last year's Perth Fashion Festival and this year's Perth Fashion Week and now local design duo Zhivago, Lara Kovacevich and Lydia Tsvetnenko, have their eyes set on the east coast.

While the pair have been a bit quiet of late because of Tsvetnenko's pregnancy (she is due on Australia Day), they are preparing for a big 2013.

Zhivago are working towards showing alongside the cream of the Australian fashion industry at its two premier events.

They intend to present their glamorous garments, which have already started to be sold overseas, at L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival 2013 and 2013 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia in Sydney.

Fashion Innovator Purchases Greentree for Rapid Growth

A fast-growing fashion supplier that prides itself on being ahead of the trends, is one of the latest businesses to purchase Greentree International’s ERP software.

UK-based Edge Accessories supplies high-fashion items such as jewellery, belts, and scarves to retailers such as Primark, New Look, Zara and Forever 21. In a three-year period it’s supplied 20 million such items.

The company’s growth has been spectacular since its launch in 2009, and it now boasts a multi-million-dollar annual sales turnover. It’s expecting further rapid growth in the European, US and Asian markets.

STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME
Edge’s design team is tasked with staying six months ahead of the High Street. Their designs are produced in factories in China for shipping in time for the April sales, when the young and trendy are shopping for what they’ll be wearing in summer.

“Fashion changes every hour, every day,” says Managing Director Mike Lamb. “If Rihanna wears something this afternoon it can be tomorrow’s fashion, and it’s our role to support the retailer to get it to the shop floor as quickly as possible.”

Edge decided that to keep pace with tough competition, it needed to modernise its computer systems. Its staff were constantly shuffling between an online product catalogue, Excel spreadsheets, and Sage for invoicing.

“Probably 20-30% of our time was spent re-checking information,” Mike says. “Greentree’s integration ensures that once information is changed, it’s changed throughout the system, so that people aren’t making errors.

“We get lots of large, complex orders because retailers tend to book in batches. Sometimes they’ll book 30-40 product lines all at the same time, and processing them could be very slow and cumbersome. We needed a system that could group all those multiple orders from one customer together.”

CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT
“Our customers rely on us all the time for updates,” Mike says, “and we wanted to make sure that we were coding or attributing the products correctly when we put them into the system. Inputting an average of 10,000 product lines a year was one person’s full-time job. The way Greentree uploads data from Excel makes our lives so much easier.

“Just to have the ability to respond to orders immediately, even on the road, is a massive advantage to us, because delays mean lost sales. I was spending too much of my time tracking errors, instead of focusing on growing the business.”

“We don’t accept second best in our business, so Greentree was our only option!” Mike concludes.

How the SamCam effect sent profits soaring at Zara: Retailer racks up £1.3bn in 2012

It is the high street fashion chain that boasts Samantha Cameron, the Duchess of Cambridge and even Mary Berry among its fans.

So it is perhaps no surprise that Zara, the modestly-priced retailer, has seen its profits soar by 27 per cent.

The Spanish-owned brand has bucked the high street gloom by racking up profits of £1.3billion in the first nine months of the year.

And there seems little doubt that the patronage of some of Britain’s biggest fashion icons has had a key role in securing its success in the UK.

The Duchess of Cambridge and her sister Pippa Middleton were both spotting wearing Zara on the day after the Royal Wedding.

Kate was seen heading off on her honeymoon in one of its £49.99 cornflower blue dresses, which subsequently sold out, while Pippa was spotted travelling home in a £69.99 Zara jacket.

The label also took centre-stage at the Tory party conference when Samantha Cameron wore a pair of high-waisted, orange cigarette pants (£39.99) and a grey jumper (£19.99) from the same store.

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Mrs Cameron also has a pair of £29 grey court shoes from the store, which she has been spotted wearing on a number of occasions.

Although the store’s main appeal is among young, cash-strapped  followers of fashion, it is clear its designs appeal to young and old.

When 77-year-old Mary Berry wore a brightly-coloured Zara bomber jacket on the hit BBC2 show The Great British Bake Off, her stamp of approval was an unlikely coup for Zara, showcasing the design to millions of viewers.

Zara, which has 65 stores in the UK, is owned by the world’s biggest retailer Inditex, which also owns the Massimo Dutti and  Bershka brands.

Its huge surge in profits marked a 27 per cent increase on the same period last year, with sales swelling by 17pc to just over £9billion when many of its rivals are struggling.

Amancio Ortega, who founded Inditex in 1975, is now the world’s fifth richest man, worth an estimated £23billion.

His fashion empire has almost 6,000 stores and 116,000 employees in 86 countries.

Santa Fe University of Art and Design Again Named One of “America’s Best Kept College Secrets”

Book on America’s outstanding colleges and universities highlights SFUAD for the second consecutive year Santa Fe, NM (PRWEB) December 10, 2012 Santa Fe University of Art and Design(SFUAD) is featured in the 2012 edition of Peter L. Arango’s book America’s Best Kept College Secrets: An Affectionate Portrait of Outstanding Colleges and Universities. The university was also featured in the 2011 edition. According to Arango, who has worked in the field of college admissions for more than 40 years, “not only are the teaching and work spaces [at SFUAD] up to the standards of a first-rate arts school, but the residences are handsome and comfortable.” Arango writes that SFUAD maintains a strong visual arts education, which includes what he calls a “recent explosion of creative energy in the area of film and video.” SFUAD has introduced its re-envisioned Film School and announced a new Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film curriculum. The university also established a Film School Advisory Board that includes top directors, screenwriters, animators and other film professionals who will give guest lectures and workshops on campus. In his review, Arango says that the “exciting and spiffy” university offers “an excellent dining service and many recreational activities.” He also notes that the collaborative campus environment provides students with a creative community in which to live and study. “A significant difference between SFUAD and some other professional art or design schools is that Santa Fe has built four residence halls and several on-campus apartment houses for residential students,” Arango writes. “The program at SFUAD is entirely residential, which not only relieves the difficulty of finding housing in a precious city such as Santa Fe, but also creates a community of professional artists, living and working together.” “We’re honored to have a special place in this book,” says Larry Hinz, president of SFUAD. “It’s satisfying to see that prospective students and parents are discovering what we do at Santa Fe University of Art and Design. Those of us here in Santa Fe like to promote the fact that we offer access to outstanding educators who are working professionals in their respective fields, as well as unparalleled facilities that, for instance, enable students to work on soundstages alongside film productions such as True Grit and No Country for Old Men. It’s a great compliment to have others recognize and endorse our strengths as well.” Arango says he wrote America’s Best Kept College Secrets because he believes in the mission and purpose of the colleges and universities he features in his book. He adds that he considers SFUAD a “remarkable option for anyone longing to pursue [a career] in the arts in the Southwest … My admiration of the programs at the university remains unabated,” he added.

Home decor trends that ruled in 2012

Preppy patterns, rustic ceramics, knitted cushion covers, textual fabrics, wall art, and earthy rugs - the list of fancy interior decor is endless. Like every year, 2012 also had its share of innovations that expert designers adopted quite enthusiastically.

So, before we welcome the New Year, let's take a look at the round up of this year's most coveted colours, patterns, fabrics, furniture and finishing touches. Mumbai based multi-disciplinary design consultant, Shweta Kaushik takes us through five exclusive trends that dominated in 2012!

The Top Jobs for 2013

Struggling to find a job? If you’re an accountant, computer systems analyst or event coordinator, there's a good chance your luck will change in 2013.

These three professions are among the best jobs that require a bachelor's degree for 2013, according to a new study by CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI).

The study used EMSI’s rich labor market database, which pulls from over 90 national and state employment resources and includes detailed information on employees and self-employed workers, to find the 18 top jobs for 2013, based on the occupations with the most jobs added since 2010.

“The list identifies occupations that are on an upward trajectory regarding employment,” says Matt Ferguson, chief executive of CareerBuilder. “Job seekers can gain insights into where companies are expanding and opportunities that are available.”

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The occupation that has produced the most jobs post-recession: Software developer (applications and systems software). Since 2010, 70,872 jobs have been added (7% growth).

Why? “Companies are competing to get to market first with innovations that will create new revenue streams,” Ferguson says. “They want to capitalize on mobile technologies and social media.  They want to extract, parse and apply Big Data to bring better solutions to their clients and their own businesses. They need technologists in place who can devise bigger and better strategies, and execute.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most software developers work for computer systems design and related services firms or software publishers. Others work in computer and electronic product manufacturing industries. They typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

The average pay for these professionals is $90,530 a year, and the BLS expects a 30% increase in the number of software developers by 2020 (from 2010).

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In the No. 2 spot is accountants and auditors. These professionals prepare and examine financial records, and ensure that taxes are paid properly and on time. Over 37,100 jobs have been added since 2010 (a 3% increase).

Most employers require an accountant or auditor job candidate to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, and others will want the candidate to be certified within a specific field, according to the BLS. These professionals make $61,690, on average, per year.

The third best job for 2013: Market research analysts and marketing specialists. The profession has added 31,335 jobs since 2010, which is a 10% increase. According to the BLS, they earn about $60,570 a year, on average. The profession is expected to grow 41% by 2020 (from 2010).

What do they do? Market research analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand the marketplace; what products people want, who will buy them, and at what price. Strong math and analytical skills are typically required, as well as a bachelor’s degree. Top research positions often require a master’s, according to the BLS.

Elsewhere on the list: Computer systems analysts (No. 4), mechanical engineers (No. 9), and database administrators (No. 15).

“Technology and engineering roles make up the majority of the top ten positions, indicative of the continued and heightened investments companies are making in these areas,” Ferguson says. “You also see growth in production-related jobs as U.S. manufacturing rallies after experiencing significant losses during the recession. There is also strong demand for sales and marketing roles as companies look to grow revenue and extend their visibility and reach. Finally, there are more jobs supporting overall business operations as the economy improves.”

Ryan Lochte will take you swimming to benefit Fashion for Sandy Relief

Even though his Olympic swimming endeavors didn't work out quite as he had planned, Ryan Lochte can at least console himself with the fact that 2012 saw him break out as an unlikely fashion star.

Fashion for Sandy Relief: Anna Wintour and Victoria Beckham put themselves up for auction
Ryan Lochte plays roving reporter at New York Fashion Week 2012?

Unlikely because he's not even vaguely fashionable, but a star nonetheless due to his pretty face, silly catchphrases (including Jeah! and Reezy - Ryan's nickname), flamboyant style statements (including a diamond-encrusted USA flag grill) and ability to not take himself too seriously.

IN PICTURES: Ryan Lochte's model credentials
And if his star turn on the cover of US Vogue was not proof alone that the fashion world had embraced him as an honorary member, confirmation came today with news that Lochte's services have been acquired by the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) and Vogue , to help raise funds for their Fashion for Sandy relief initiative.

Trading the starting block for the auction block, one successful bidder and a guest will get the chance to join the five-time Olympic gold medallist for a morning swimming lesson plus lunch at one of his favorite spots.

Swimming with Lochte, valued at $20,000, is one of 180 once-in-a-lifetime experiences being offered via the Charitybuzz online auction site in response to the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. And the New Yorker is in very stylish company with fellow names offering their time including Manolo Blahnik, Grace Coddington, Tom Ford, Lady Gaga and Victoria Beckham.

Fashion royalty star at palace

Fashion royalty has descended on Scotland for a catwalk show staged by one of the world's leading brands.

Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian hosted the launch of Chanel's prestigious Metiers d'Art collection by the French brand's creative director Karl Lagerfeld.

The collection, heavily inspired by Scottish designs and fabrics, was presented within the walls of the majestic 15th century palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.

An estimated audience of around 400 invited guests from the international fashion world watched the show, which began and ended with appearances from Scots model Stella Tennant.

Speaking after the show, Lagerfeld said: "I loved the location and I must say the way the show was staged was exactly what I wanted. It was very interesting to use it for a show. I wanted the rough romance of this beautiful place."

The fashion brand recently bought a cashmere mill in the Scottish Borders, Barrie Knitwear in Hawick, after its owner went into administration.

Asked about Scotland's influence in the fashion world, Lagerfeld replied: "Chanel came here, she discovered tweed here and the cashmere. Now we've bought Barrie. Scottish patterns and tartans are all over the world, so there is a strong identity that everybody likes, uses and copies."

There had been rumours that stars such as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Sarah Jessica Parker were lined up to attend but there was no obvious sign of the Hollywood A-listers at the show.

Since 2002, Lagerfeld has dedicated an annual ready-to-wear collection to showcase specialist craftsmanship around the world. The catwalk event is held in a different country each year and this year his selection is thought to have been inspired by the heritage of Chanel in Scotland.

Around 200 Chanel staff were reportedly involved in preparing the palace for the event. Outside, large crowds of onlookers braved the Scottish winter weather ahead of the show, lining the streets of Linlithgow in the hope of catching sight of a well-known face.

Dolce and Gabbana tax evasion trial begins in Italy

Italian fashion designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana's tax evasion trial began Monday in Milan.

According to Reuters, the high-profile case is one of the few tax disputes of its kind to go to court in Italy, where the government has launched a crackdown on tax evaders that has included very public police raids in yacht marinas and ski resorts.

Dolce and Gabbana are accused of not declaring taxes in Italy on royalties on over a billion euros ($1.3 billion) after moving their brand to Luxembourg in 2004, reported BBC News. Prosecutors allege the pair sold their firms to a holding company for well below market value, but the designers have denied the charges and have said the allegations are "absurd."

The two had previously been cleared of tax evasion charges by another Milan court last year, note Reuters, but a higher court overturned the acquittal, allowing for a new trial.

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Since Gabbana criticized the high court's decision last year by threatening, in a tweet, to leave the country, he and his business partner have not made any statements, BBC continued.

Six other people, including the designers' tax consultant, are also on trial. If found guilty, Dolce and Gabbana face up to five years in prison. The court is due to rule on the case December 14.

L6 Series Fashion Handbags Are Available Now at TheLondon2012.net

On Nov. 28, TheLondon2012.net, released its L6 Series Fashion Handbags, and announced that all customers

can get a discount when checking out, up to 39%.

According to Hugo Blitz, CEO of TheLondon2012.net, all the L6 series fashion handbags have these

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at a supermarket.

Fashion handbag is a common topic for most females. “A handbag means private space, a location in the

world to order my things and by extension, parts of myself. It is a chance to see and touch something

pretty (not a smeller of leather at all) and find pleasure in its beauty.” Said, Cici, a customer from

London.

Many women become excited when talking about luxury brands of handbags, like Gucci or LV, which are not

affordable for many white-collars. The L6 Series fashion handbags is to help people obtain finest women

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On the page of TheLondon2012.net, customers can find the style they like easily. TheLondon2012.net has

vowed to spare no energy to provide high-quality products for customers with fast delivery.

Furthermore, TheLondon2012.net will be introducing its latest fashion bags in a show in London, January 6-

9. The details about this will be shown in the news section of its website.

Some of my dresses inspired by India: Miss Paraguay Leryn Franco

Paraguayan Olympian-cum-model Leryn Franco, who walked for designer Rocky S. at the ongoing India Resort Fashion Week (IRFW), says that though she is yet to try an Indian sari but some of her attire was inspired by Indian designs and techniques.

"I didn't get the chance to wear sari but I do like Indian design sensibilities. Some of my dresses are inspired from India but they are made by Paraguayan designers. They have given me some of the India-inspired outfits and I love it," Franco told IANS.

Looking elegant in golden fish-tail gown with net layering, she walked for Rocky on the penultimate day of the four-day fashion event Friday.

The designer showcased a collection that was mix of gowns, dresses and some resort wear.

"It was really a glamorous collection. For me, resort wear doesn't mean bikinis but also the garments that women can wear while partying and for brunches. They want to look really great and wonderful and that's what I wanted to bring to the collection," Rocky told IANS.

There was much embroidery used on the garment with lot of crystals and pearls. The fabrics that were used heavily were chiffons and nets on the hues varying from black and ivory.

Leryn, a perfect combination of beauty with brains, won the Miss Paraguay title in 2006. Not only this, she also participated in the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics representing her country in the javelin throw.

She feels elated on her first visit to India.

"India is huge market when it comes to fashion. I think Paraguayan designers look upto the Indian counterparts in big way. I am excited and happy to be here. India is very big and has many admirers. Everyone is looking towards India for the designs, culture and mysticism," said Leryn who also practices Yoga regularly.

An Homage To Street Fashion Photog Bill Cunningham

I love Bill Cunningham. He's the original street fashion photographer - the one who mastered today's trend - and a New York institution. For years, he's been documenting fashion trends on the streets of New York, which he traverses on his trusty Schwinn, reporting for The New York Times.

Cunningham does a regular feature for the Times called "On the Street" in which you hear him talk about the photos he's taken. He's always so unabashedly enthusiastic.

Who knew you could be so happy about trench coats, leggings, and leopard print? Ok, so I've been happy about those things (maybe not the leopard print). But Cunningham's appreciation for statement and expression makes fashion seem like a place for everyday adventure instead of a consumer trap.

A new documentary called "Bill Cunningham: New York" opens in San Diego this weekend. In it, we learn that Cunningham's life is his work. He's in his 80s and has lived something of monastic existence in the name of fashion - or as he might put it - the pursuit of beauty.

He's never had a romantic relationship. He attends church every Sunday. For years he lived in a tiny apartment above Carnegie Hall packed with file cabinets where he stores copies of every photograph he's ever taken (he's still shooting film). The apartment had no kitchen and a public bathroom down the hall. He stored his bike in a hall closet, retrieving it daily to hit the streets with his camera and rolls of film.

Cunningham and the last remaining tenants (paying rent-control prices) at Carnegie Hall moved last year, forced out by the owners who wanted to expand and renovate the apartments into offices and classrooms.

The film also introduces us to Cunningham's former and eccentric neighbors at Carnegie Hall. The most fascinating is Editta Sherman, a 99-year-old photographer who was once a muse for Andy Warhol. Sherman has been called the "Duchess of Carnegie Hall" where she lived for over 60 years.

For all the artifice and pretense of the worlds he covers (fashion and New York society), Cunningham is humble and completely without airs. He's a chronic smiler and his sense of humor is refreshing in an industry known for pouty lips and raised eyebrows.


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Above: Shail Upadhya, a former U.N. official from Nepal, and one of Bill’s regular subjects.
On rainy days, Cunningham wears a plastic poncho to stay dry. At one point in the film, we see him duct taping a hole in the poncho and laughing about it. This is one of those moments where you understand that Cunningham is truly an observer and chronicler of the fashion world, not an insider. He keeps a journalistic distance. He won't even accept a glass of water at the society functions he covers.

Cunningham's also not a poser, which is my impression of fashion street photog of the moment, The Sartorialist. The latter would never be caught dead wearing a cheap poncho, much less duct taping it.


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Above: Patrick MacDonald, self-described dandy and one of Bill Cunningham's regular subjects.
The Sartorialist is also a slave to chic and luxury clothing, what Cunningham refers to as "cookie cutter" clothes. We meet some of Cunningham's regular subjects in the film - the eccentric heiresses, the dandies, drag queens, and one U.N. official who is as soft-spoken as his clothes are loud. On the streets, Cunningham searches for their daring choices in sea of conservative blacks and greys.

Cunningham is also clear he has no interest in photographing celebrities. While in Paris for Fashion Week, he rolls his eyes at the photogs rushing to get a picture of Catherine Deneuve. By the end of the film, you realize it's a level playing field for Cunningham, the fashion on the streets are his muse. There is no caste system.

But that doesn't mean the fashion world doesn't court his notice. Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour sums up the influence of Cunningham's editorial eye when she says "We all dress for Bill."

Alexa Chung, Stella McCartney, and Cara Delevingne Win British Fashion Awards

Thirteen lucky fashion folk took home trophies from this year's British Fashion Awards, held at the swanky Savoy Hotel in central London this evening. Stella McCartney was the night's biggest winner, with both the Designer of the Year and Designer Brand of the Year awards going to her. Guests at the event included Samantha Cameron, Sarah Burton, Valentino, and outgoing British Fashion Council chair Harold Tillman, who received a Special Recognition award for his work growing the country's fashion industry both at home and internationally. Princess Beatrice presented his award; no confirmation yet as to whether she braved another big, pseudo-vaginal hat. (But fingers crossed.)

Manolo Blahnik won 2012's Outstanding Achievement in Fashion award; Cara Delevingne's meteoric rise got her crowned Model of the Year; and Erdem landed the New Establishment title. Oh, and for the third year running — out of three years total, no less — Alexa Chung won the British Style award, beating the likes of Florence Welch, David Gandy, Daphne Guinness, and Kate Middleton. But don't worry about the duchess — at least she made the short list right off the bat this year. Onward and upward, third time's the charm, tallyho, etc., etc.

Utah Jazz instant analysis: Jazz battle back in dramatic fashion to stay unbeaten at home

In dramatic fashion, the Utah Jazz battled back against an offensively potent Denver Nuggets squad to earn their sixth straight home victory. The Jazz made many big plays down the stretch en route to the nail-biting 105-103 win over their division rivals.

The first half belonged to the Denver Nuggets, as they executed extremely well. Propelled by a steady diet of dunks, leak-out fast breaks and solid perimeter marksmanship, the visiting team was shooting a stellar 75 percent at the break. It appeared that Utah was headed toward its first loss at EnergySolutions Arena this season.

The Jazz had other ideas, however. Riding the wave of a dynamic 30-19 third quarter, Utah knotted things up going into the fourth. Led by the heroics of Al Jefferson, Derrick Favors, and numerous others, the Jazz made the necessary plays they needed to eke out the victory.

Big Al Does It: Jefferson’s sparkling play in the second half was a big catalyst in the change in momentum. The Jazz center was aggressive and effective, taking it right at Denver counterparts Kosta Koufos and JaVale McGee. He was dialed in from outside, which helped free up his post-up game and subsequently got him to the free-throw line. Jefferson shot 8 of 10 from the charity stripe. Only once last season was he able to garner 10 or more free-throw attempts.

All in all, Big Al shot 10 of 15 from the floor, closing things out with a game-high 28 points in just 33 minutes.

Running Reserves: Denver came into the outing sporting one of the most impactful bench units in the NBA. And while the Nuggets’ bench corps had a fine collective performance, it was the Jazz reserves who had the final say.

Favors led the way with his usual stout defense. He also was able to make some smooth plays on offense. He tallied 19 points, seven rebounds and two blocked shots. Following recent occurrences, the third-year pro played the entire fourth quarter (while starter Paul Millsap sat). His free-throw shooting was huge.

While the rest of the Jazz reserves had more pedestrian stat lines, they each added to the win. DeMarre Carroll, Earl Watson, Enes Kanter, and Gordon Hayward all were energetic and fearless on defense. Each contributed to some crucial stops.

High fashion and heartfelt charity combine at Red Charity Gala

The Philippine National Red Cross’ Red Charity Gala this year was a night of elegance and sophistication what with couturier Cary Santiago presenting his origami-inspired collection.

Santiago showed a different side of his art with his très elegant gowns that had intricate pleating and lavish draping, which moi watched from the main table in the ballroom belonging to Fila’s awesome first couple, Cris Albert and Butch Albert, who were the main sponsors of the glitzy happening, palanggas.

Another highlight of the event was the auction for the benefit of the Red Cross and Assumption High School Batch 1981 Foundation, natch!

THE FILA family,major sponsor of the event: Ana Abad Santos, Cris
Albert, Carlo and dad Butch Albert

Big-ticket items included a Lancel bag, an exquisite Jul B. Dizon jewelry ring, a pair of business-class tickets to Bangkok courtesy of Philippine Airlines, a Sun Life package, and VIP tickets to Jennifer Lopez’s concert on Nov. 26, which were won by Cris Albert, but of course!

The highest bidder won the baccarat-crystal bottle of the ultra-premium Louis XIII Cognac, dahlings.

This was all thanks to the tandem of traffic stopper Tessa Prieto-Valdes and philanthropist Kaye Tinga.

Red Cross’ dedicated chair, former Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon, no less, welcomed the country’s hottest A-listers from business and commerce to the ball.

Before the main fashion show, there was was an avant-garde presentation from Fila, naturellement, featuring the brand’s ambassadors Georgina Wilson, Fabio Ide and Tim Yap, superbly directed by Ariel Lozada, with styling by Noel Manapat, and hair and makeup by the master, Patrick Rosas, palanggas.

Costume ball

MAKATI Shangri-La GMReto Klauser, Sun Life business manager Vangie Tiu, INQUIRER president Sandy Prieto and husband Philip Romualdez

Beautiful people checked in at the “Opus Murder Motel” in their most colorful costumes during the Opus Halloween Ball at Resorts World, dahlings.

DJs Marie Garcia, Funk Avy and Clyde Harris kept the witches and ghosts shaking the place till the crowing of the rooster.

Opus’ very own board of directors participated in the costume ball: GP Reyes came as Iron Man; Louie Ysmael had intricate face paint; Erik Cua was Sweeney Todd; Marco de Guzman and Manolet Dario were zombies; and chef Carlo Miguel was a skeleton, would you believe?

The other guests were TH (as in trying too hard or pretentious) in their costumes, but they didn’t make the eye-catching list, oops! Well, there’s always next year, when they can jump into their broomstick and fly in front of a full moon.

Our town’s hottest faces and bodies came in full glamorous force, dahlings, when the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP) marked its silver anniversary with “25 Years of PMAP: The Grand Reunion.”

The awesome fashion happening was supported by Pond’s Age Miracle as well as Marriott Hotel Manila, Belvedere Vodka, Jing Monis Salon/F&H Salon, Century Properties, and Opus Club Lounge.

Among the features of the event was a photo exhibit showing the beauty of the Filipino and the Filipina across generations, “Three Visions,” by top photographers Jun de Leon and Jim and Miguel de Leon.

The exhibit also showed PMAP’s history from its humble beginnings 25 years ago.

The organization’s old and new members took part in a fashion presentation wearing the latest designs by some of the country’s most promising designers. The show was directed by Jackie Aquino, palanggas.

NICOLE and MannixOrtega with daughter Natalia Ortega; Ian Umali

Host was Eric Quizon.

Special awards were given out. Paolo and Rissa Trillo were Couple of the Night, presented by Marriott Hotel Manila; Marco Lobregat and Jing Monis were Belvedere’s Most Stylish Man and Most Outstanding Man; and Danica Magpantay was Tresemmé’s Most Fashionable Female.

“PMAP has been the only nonprofit organization established by models and run by models,” said PMAP president Phoemela Baranda, dahlings.

“The organization has continued to (work) on protecting, uplifting and professionalizing the modeling industry, as well as highlighting the best that the country has to offer.

Après that, everyone dashed to Opus to party, where they got their adrenaline higher than a kite can fly. That’s totally partying with a vengeance, ’di bala, palanggas?

FashionPlaytes Unveils Trendy, Festive Holiday Clothing Line that Lets Tweens Sparkle and Shine

FashionPlaytes, the first girl-driven fashion and style destination, today announced its fresh and fabulous Holiday Line of designs, fabrics, color and embellishments especially for FPgirls (www.fpgirl.com). The Holiday Line will empower fashion-forward tweens to create their own signature look for the holidays. The upcoming season presents plenty of opportunities for FPgirls to shine, including school events, cookie decorating parties, piano recitals, and celebrations with family and friends. FPgirls can mix and match tops, skirts, a wrap, dresses, outerwear and accessories for the perfect look for any occasion. 

"Tween girls are increasingly fashion conscious and know that they need to look their best during the holidays," said Sarah McIlroy, founder and CEO of FashionPlaytes.com. "At FPgirl.com, we've created a fabulous collection that our girls can use to showcase their own signature style and be the belle of the ball during any event this season."

FPgirl has a wide variety of fun and festive holiday clothing for girls, including skirts, tops, dresses, leggings and outerwear to choose as base garments that can be customized with everything from a shimmering star, a red sequined heart and even an FP wish for holiday peace. From sparkles to plush fabrics with a few animal prints sprinkled in, FPgirls are sure to have the right look for every holiday party and event.

FPgirls can customize accessories for the holidays with the charming Hair Fling™ and other jewelry and new pieces, including fun and funky scarves. To make sure these custom-designed outfits are here in time for the holidays, orders must be placed by December 12, 2012 (with express shipping).

BFFs can also shop for gifts for girls in FPgirl's new Gift Shop, with items including Designer Must-Haves, Things That Sparkle, BFF Gifts Under $10, Accessories, Stocking Stuffers and Holiday Fashion.

FPgirl.com is offering special deals for shoppers on November 23 (Black Friday) and November 26 (Cyber Monday). On November 23, FPgirl.com shoppers will receive free shipping, plus a $25 Free Egift Card for every $50 spent using Code FF2012. On November 26, FPgirl.com shoppers will receive 25 percent off merchandise storewide, plus a $25 Egift Card for every $50 spent using code CM2012.

High Fashion Meets Whimsy - Tonner Doll Company Takes on Dr. Seuss

If you have a passion for fashion and colors galore, you’ll love this new Dr. Seuss line - Just wait and see what’s in store

Tonner Doll Company, a cornerstone in the collectibles industry for more than 20 years, in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P., has introduced a vibrant, high-fashion take on the colorful, poetic whimsy that has entertained children and adults alike since the late 1930s.

“This has been a tough one to keep under our hats,” said a giddy Robert Tonner, CEO, company namesake and doll artist extraordinaire. “There is a lot of excitement about this project internally, and we had so much momentum going into it, so we are really excited to finally show you the finished product.”
Tonner Doll is known for their elaborately detailed and high-fashion collectible dolls and outfits, as well as their ability to authentically capture popular characters such as Scarlett O’Hara and Dorothy Gale and bring them to life in vinyl form.

“This collection will be a marriage of what we do best: High fashion and pop culture,” said Tonner. “In this case, though, we’re not re-creating the Seuss characters, per se, but instead, what we’re doing is inspired by the colors and the shapes that are at the essence of what we all love about Dr. Seuss’s art.”

There are 3 pieces in the Dr. Seuss Collection: The Cat’s Hat, Sam I Am and Truffula, and each is inspired by the timeless, ageless art included in Dr. Seuss’s books. Each doll is 16” tall, adorned with inset eyes, rooted Saran hair and includes multiple points of articulation for imaginative and dynamic posing and play. Only 500 pieces of each doll will be made.

Fashion mags steal the spotlight in ad sales

The glossy monthly magazines continue to make noise about the trend to digital versions of their brands — but ad sales at their bread-and-butter print editions for the most part are still eroding.

While most sectors saw declines, fashion titles were a bright spot, according to Media Industry Newsletter, due to release full-year ad page results today for the 100-plus consumer monthlies.

Overall, ad pages sold by the group fell 4.1 percent in 2012 from 2011, MIN reports.

InStyle finished No. 1 in ad pages sold — with 2,684, according to MIN.

“It was a case of fashion and the seven dwarfs,” said Steve Cohn, editor of MIN. He did note that the decline in December was under 3 percent, suggesting that erosion in print may be slowing down.

“I think the numbers are not terribly surprising given what has been happening with print the past few years, but they are balanced with significant gains in digital, on tablets and on smartphones,” said Chris Kevorkian, the chief marketing and digital officer for e MPA, the association of Magazine Media.

InStyle, edited by Ariel Foxman with Connie Anne Phillips, publisher, used a strong December issue with 302 ad pages, to finish atop the heap with a 5.47 percent increase from a year ago.

That December surge enabled it to nose out Condé Nast flagship Vogue, where editor Anna Wintour is teamed with publisher Susan Plagemann. Vogue had 2,601.21 ad pages, up 3.65 percent on the year.

Elle, edited by Robbie Myers with publisher Kevin O’Malley, had 2,453 ad pages, a 6 percent jump.

Harper’s Bazaar, edited by Glenda Bailey who teams with former Elle publisher Carol Smith, was up 11 percent on the year, to 1,838.12 pages.

W, thanks to a strong 40th anniversary issue in November, finished the year up 10.07 percent with 1,198 ad pages. Stefano Tonchi is the editor, but it just lost its publisher, Nina Lawrence, to the WSJ Magazine (owned by News Corp., which also owns The Post).

Other women’s magazines had a tougher go of it.

Glamour, normally the second-most profitable title at Condé Nast, dipped 3.82 percent to 1,445 while Cosmopolitan, usually the brightest star in the Hearst constellation, slipped 5.62 percent to 1,379.24.

Luxury magazines seemed to fare surprisingly well. American Express Publishing reported that its bimonthly, Departures, was up 12 percent on the year while Town + Country, edited by Jay Fielden, was up 6.45 percent — a nice sendoff for outgoing publisher Valerie Salembier.

Eponymous mags, for the most part, still struggled — although Everyday with Rachael Ray seemed to benefit from its shift to Meredith from Reader’s Digest. It posted a 3.86 gain in ad pages, to 608.

The lack of a daily syndicated TV show by Oprah Winfrey seemed to crimp O, the Oprah Magazine, where ad pages dropped 14.59 percent, to 1,161.18.

That decline wasn’t as big as that of Martha Stewart Living, which fell 29.04 percent to 766.58.

Allure was a standout at Condé Nast, jumping 18.43 percent to 1,396.55; meanwhile, Food Network Magazine shined at Hearst, jumping 17.27 percent to 1,041.35.

Budget blues

Condé Nast stills seems to be suffering aftershocks from the demoralizing budget cuts it was forced to make last month.

Laura Brounstein, who is the fashion and entertainment director at Self, is packing it in to leap across the Hudson to become editorial director of Bauer Publications’ teen titles, which include M, Twist and J-14.

“You don’t leave [Self Editor-in-Chief] Lucy Danziger unless it’s something really good,” said Brounstein.

Bauer, which owns celeb mags In Touch and Life+Style, makes most of its money from newsstand sales. The teen titles sell more than 800,000 copies a month collectively.

AMI jump

Even American Media, publisher of the National Enquirer, has been poaching from Condé Nast. Patrick Connors, who was the associate publisher of Glamour, is jumping to Men’s Fitness to replace John Grane y, who was just given the heave-ho yesterday, sources said.

I Love Ugly wins DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship

The designers of New Zealand fashion label I Love Ugly have been awarded the $10,000 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship for 2012, establishing them as New Zealand’s top emerging fashion exporter.

Designed to identify the country’s hottest up-and-coming fashion exporter and assist them in achieving international growth, the scholarship paves the way for I Love Ugly to make a big impact on the global fashion scene.

Mo Kheir, marketing director from I Love Ugly says, “We are so happy to have won this award, words can't express how thankful we are for the constant support and belief that people have in our brand. We hope to use this prize to push our international exports and get our name out there. Thank you for believing in our brand and to our followers for being an important part of our journey."

The scholarship has been running for five years but new this year, DHL Express and Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) also allowed online exporters to enter. This means fashion exporters who may not have a traditional retail front, but who export online were eligible for the scholarship.

Megan Wildermoth, national strategic account manager (fashion and textiles) DHL Express says, “For the last five years of the scholarship we’ve seen the proliferation of entrants who are embracing the online environment and we wanted to reflect this.

“I Love Ugly presented an overall compelling submission. They have a strong, strategic online presence that compliments their traditional retail offering, and with the fashion industry heading online, this approach will allow them to grow”.

Iconic fashion designer and scholarship judge Kate Sylvester says, “I Love Ugly has a great vision. They know exactly what they want and what they have to do to achieve it. It’s an aspirational brand that appeals to young consumers as well as the 35-40year olds. My teenage sons are big fans of theirs.”

Erica Crawford, prominent entrepreneur, exporter and judge says, “I’m impressed with their business model and strong use of online and social media. I Love Ugly’s design aesthetic is entirely suited to their business model and they won’t have to dramatically change it be successful in different markets.

“Their garments are well made, well presented and they have tremendous export potential”.

Fashion commentator Carolyn Enting says “I Love Ugly has an excellent brand that is very clever and they have a firm grip on social media. Their design aesthetic is very now, with an international look. And with their online and export goals they are targeting where the growth is and has international appeal.”

Paul Blomfield, Chairman of FINZ has a ringing endorsement of this year’s scholarship winners. “A company like I Love Ugly is exactly why we have the scholarship. They represent the future of the fashion industry and they’ve been very strategic in their export focus. Their export success to date has been achieved using online combined with a comprehensive interactive multi-media approach to the business which is refreshing.”

One man's first visit to Tel Aviv Fashion Week

My partner for the Israel Fashion Week opening event, fashion writer Shachar Atwan, came down from the press room in overalls whose shoulder straps were rolled down. It seems that this is going to be the new look for men in the spring and summer of 2013: to let their shoulder straps slip deliberately, as if you’ve just come out of the bathroom and haven’t had a chance to put them back where they belong.

And indeed, with their shoulder straps slipping meticulously, the male models of the Moschino fashion house marched up the runway where they, incidentally, got much louder applause than their female counterparts at the evening’s event. It’s an open secret, after all, that the overwhelming majority of fashion-show attendees are women, who tend to prefer the men, particularly men whose pants look like they’re going to fall off any minute.

For a moment, with a little imagination, the Station compound in Tel Aviv-Jaffa, which was chosen to host the Fashion Week events, looked a bit like elegant Milan, designed and contoured, liberal and post-modern, in which gender boundaries had been removed and men dressed like women who were dressed like men mixed with women who dressed like men who were dressed like women.

The only ones in the crowd who looked like old-style men were, to be honest, the photographers, those proletarians of the entertainment industry who are sent at impossible hours on photo shoots that bore them. One of them, a particularly muscular guy, sat with his huge video camera on a reserved seat in the first row, which generated a rather ugly argument with the security people, who are also among the last survivors of the old male genre. The fight got heated, and who knows -- perhaps it ended in blows outside the venue.

That’s because there is a clearly defined hierarchy here that separates the aristocrats who got front-row seats from the middle-class in the second row, the indigent relegated to the third row and the riffraff in the back. Personally, I would have been happy to switch seats with Karen Dunsky, a former model and former star, who sat behind me and didn’t stop complaining loudly about how the place looked like Gaza, that she was cold, that she was sick and taking antibiotics, and that she still couldn’t figure out how a celeb of her status had been give a side seat in the second row.

Some of her complaints were justified, including the fact that the fashion show started more than half an hour late, and such a thing would never happen somewhere else that wasn’t Gaza.

She actually said something that was totally logical: “Fashion is expensive. If you don’t have money, don’t do a fashion week.” The reference was to the fact that the organizer of Fashion Week had had a dispute with his business partner, and all the snafus were the result of this rift. As she said this, she patted me on the shoulder, to encourage me to write down everything she was saying.

Then suddenly, to my left, another celeb unceremoniously sat herself down: Judy Nir-Mozes Shalom. But almost as soon as the lights went down before the start of the fashion show, the heiress of the Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth and wife of Vice Prime Minister Silvan Shalom suddenly dropped her head to her chest. I asked her worriedly what was wrong, but instead of answering she rushed to the exit.

It turned out that she had accidentally swallowed a large candy and was choking on it. But so as not to cough in public, since there is nothing less proper than engaging in a natural physical activity like coughing up something in such a rarefied setting, she made a beeline for the door. Until the end of the show I was uncomfortable and even feeling slightly guilty – perhaps it was shock at my decidedly unfashionable look that had made her choke?

Indeed, I had dressed for the occasion in a manner not in keeping with the latest jackets from the house of Moschino, which are made from detergent bags or from knits in loud colors. My jacket, poor thing, had been purchased in a men’s fashion store on July 26th Street in Cairo four years ago and it’s a nondescript dark solid color, just like the pants that came from another fashion house on the same Cairo street.

To be honest, I had never been at a fashion show before, unless you count the fittings that my mother and grandmothers would do at home, when they would summon the Turkish seamstress, the affable Madame Abuav, to sew them dresses from material they’d order from Istanbul. Those fashion shows consisted of dressing and undressing and walking up and down the narrow hallway between the bedrooms to see how well the dresses fit.

So where are you now, Madame Abuav? You would faint if you could see how some of Moschino’s long dresses are sewn, with threads dangling between the models’ legs. There was something cheap and totally classless in the way the clothes hung on the rail-thin, tired-looking models. The huge silver platform shoes on their feet lacked any charm and looked as if they had just been bought at the central bus station.

Still, there were some nice flowered Sixties-style dresses. My mother once had a dress like that, with pockets in front, big buttons and a straight cut. She bought it from the designer Bat-Adam, for a wedding of rich people for whom the attractive dresses made by Madame Abuav simply would not have been fancy enough.

Orlando Fashion Square, West Oaks Mall being sold

Orlando Fashion Square is under contract with a company considering redevelopment, including apartments on vacant parcels of the property. Ocoee officials say West Oaks is going to a firm that plans to make it a "Class A mall.''

UP Development of Franklin, Tenn., hopes to close the sale of Orlando Fashion Square by year's end. It referred questions to Scott Corbin, a representative for its broker, Colliers International Central Florida.

UP is considering several plans, Corbin said, but "It's obvious it needs to be redeveloped." He would not disclose the sales price.

UP has already purchased property near Orlando Fashion Square, including a vacant Toys "R" Us, for $4.5 million, Corbin said. UP also has under contract 2.5 acres of vacant land behind Toys "R" Us, where it would like to bring in big-box retail outlet.

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The company has already talked to potential tenants, Corbin said, and is considering a mixed-use project that would include apartments. He said it's too early to give details but tenant desires will have a major impact on the final plan.

The deal does not include the Sears, since that retailer owns its own stores at malls including Orlando Fashion Square.

UP's other Orlando projects include Shoppes at Alafaya Trail and Millenia Plaza. At Millenia, UP redeveloped an old Expo Design Center into a new Dick's Sporting Goods and combo Babies "R" Us/Toys "R" Us.

Corbin said the company's specialties include redevelopments and "difficult retail projects."

Orlando Fashion Square would fit that bill. The oldest major shopping mall in Central Florida, it has lost many national tenants over several years. Despite its challenges, Corbin said, the area "has very good demographics." The upscale community of Baldwin Park, for example, lies nearby.

The mall's owner, Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust, said earlier this year it would sell Orlando Fashion Square and four other struggling centers to pay down debt. A PREIT spokeswoman could not be reached for comment.

In Ocoee, assistant city manager Craig Shadrix said West Oaks is under contract with a new owner and that someone representing that company contacted the city and plans to meet with officials soon about its plans.

"They plan to turn it into a Class A mall," said Shadrix, who put the purchase price at $15.5 million.

West Oaks' current owner, General Growth Properties, would not comment.

Shadrix did not know the name of the company buying the mall but said the person who contacted the city about the deal is Shawl Pryor of Atlanta, who identified himself as the buyer's partner.

Pryor could not be reached for comment but his LinkedIn page identifies him as senior vice president of Infinity Property Fund.

Swirl Becomes First Fashion Shopping App to Bring Leading Retailer Offers to Apple's Passbook

Swirl, a mobile personal shopping assistant for fashion, today announced the integration of Apple's Passbook with the newest version of its iPhone app. The integration allows Swirl users to easily save offers from over 200 leading fashion brands directly to Passbook, providing them with easy access when and where they shop.

Swirl is reinventing the fashion shopping experience by helping consumers discover, organize and shop for their favorite styles at nearby retail stores. The Swirl iPhone app brings together hundreds of thousands of products and offers from top retailers, allowing users to monitor fashion trends, receive sales alerts and find the nearest retail store locations. Passbook integration provides Swirl users with location-aware reminders from their favorite brands when they are out shopping.

The Passbook premise is simple. It provides consumers with a single place to access offers, event tickets, boarding passes and loyalty cards from multiple brands, all of which can be accessed with the tap of a finger. The convenience of Passbook as a true mobile wallet is a perfect complement to Swirl.

"Early analysis from our app's first eight weeks in market shows that some of the most popular activities include saving products and offers for future reference," says Swirl founder and CEO Hilmi Ozguc. "By extending saved offers directly into Passbook, our users will now be automatically reminded of sales when they pass by one of the 30,000 retail locations covered by Swirl."

Swirl users on Apple's recently-released iOS 6 operating system simply click the save button attached to any of the hundreds of current offers that are refreshed on a daily basis in the Swirl app. Users are then offered the option to save those offers to Passbook. Since Passbook is time and location aware, users receive an automatic notification on their iPhone whenever they have an active offer in Passbook that is valid at a store nearby. Swiping the notification provides easy access to all of their saved offers.

"Our goal at Swirl is to create a better shopping experience for consumers," says Ozguc. "Whether it's browsing for fashion inspiration, planning a shopping trip, or trying on outfits in a store, we want Swirl to be an indispensable shopping companion. Our integration with Apple's Passbook is a great extension of the personalized experience we are creating for Swirl users."

In L.A., Art + Film + Fashion

“JENNIFER and Justin! Straight ahead!” shouted the paparazzi huddled outside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art on Saturday night. “Drew! Drew! Over here!”

It was the museum’s second annual Art + Film gala, billed as the West Coast’s version of the Costume Institute Ball at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Indeed, the event drew Anna Wintour and a crush of celebrities, with an august museum as the red carpet backdrop. There was even a fashion sponsor.

“Gucci,” said Michael Govan, the museum’s director, when asked about his black tuxedo. He was standing in the courtyard, overlooking Chris Burden’s popular outdoor sculpture, “Urban Light.” “L.A. has always been known for the movies,” he said, in explaining the gala’s genesis. “The idea was to get the art world and the movie world together.”

This year’s benefit, with Eva Chow and Leonardo DiCaprio (a no-show, thanks to Hurricane Sandy stranding him on the East Coast) as co-hosts, honored the Los Angeles artist Ed Ruscha and the late film director Stanley Kubrick.

Attendees were herded to the cocktail tent, where the actress Evan Rachel Wood drowned out the screaming fans outside by crooning a couple of jazz standards. For the most part the art and film worlds maintained independent orbits, as did a third world, represented by Ms. Wintour and the vintage fashion retailer Cameron Silver.

Whiffs of cannibis wafted through the tent as Robert Iger, the chairman of Walt Disney and his wife, the journalist Willow Bay, chatted with Brian Grazer, the producer and museum trustee, whose finger-in-the-socket hairstyle looked especially electrified (the Santa Ana winds, perhaps). Diane Keaton, in a tuxedo and black bowler hat, vamped for Matthew Modine. Jane Fonda, in black Gucci, delicately embraced Salma Hayek, also in black Gucci.

Scanning the crowd with his water-blue eyes was Mr. Ruscha, who recalled how film had influenced him. “I went to all those 10-cent Saturday morning western serials as a kid,” he said. Among his favorites was ‘Paths of Glory,’ Mr. Kubrick’s film about World War I. “It was a stroke of brilliance.”

After cocktails, guests made their way to the dinner pavilion. Taking his sweet time was Jack Nicholson, who lauded Mr. Ruscha as an “old friend, a beautiful boy, a true artist.” He paused to look back at Mr. Burden’s installation, now ablaze under an almost full moon. “I guarantee you no photographers grabbed this shot with the Variety building in the background,” he said. “It’s a beautiful L.A. museum, isn’t it?”

Giant images of Mr. Ruscha’s deadpan paintings were projected on one wall of the dinner tent. The schmoozy crowd ignored repeated requests to take their seats, and even after the beef Wellington came out, the table hopping continued. The most desirable table in the room may have been that of the “Scandal” actress Kerry Washington, who introduced her parents, visiting from the Bronx, to a steady stream of luminaries, including Sean Penn, Cameron Diaz, Warren Beatty and Annette Bening.

After dinner Mr. Govan paid tribute to Mr. Ruscha, quoting the novelist J. G. Ballard: “Ed Ruscha has the coolest gaze in American art.” Tom Hanks honored Steven Spielberg, who in turn honored Mr. Kubrick. “Kubrick was the Beatles,” Mr. Spielberg said. “Kubrick was all four of the Beatles.”

The English indie rock band Florence and the Machine performed a few songs before guests were invited to head downstairs for dessert and a preview of the museum’s Kubrick exhibition.

But while Los Angeles may be a movie town and an art town, it is certainly not a dessert town. Nor is it a late-night town. The brandies and pastries remained largely untouched, and the galleries, where stills and costumes from Mr. Kubrick’s movies were on display, sat empty.

Chicago goes fashion forward at The Fashion Market

Looking for fashion outside of Michigan Avenue, State Street, and the usual boutiques? The Fashion Market, located on 216 S. Jefferson, holds space for models, fashion designers, photographers and fashion addicts to come and enlighten one another.

Occupied by fashion shows and shopping events, The Fashion Market serves as an outlet for creativity in the fashion industry and entertainment for anyone with an interest in fashion.

Fashion Forward!, a fashion show featuring a variety of designers and models, took place at The Fashion Market on Oct. 20. Intended for youth, young women and middle-aged women, the fashions varied but had remarkable handiwork; the pieces featured intricate work and unique designs.

Designs by E.KayeCollection, Aparna Designs, DiLi Designs, Cobar Collection, Laima Gaudi Designs, Chloe + Isabel, Emages Design, and Alexandra Torissi shoes were displayed by models, while photographers sat at the head of the runway and took shot after shot. Onlookers sat and stood all around the runway, observing, applauding, and admiring the fashions, while using their phones to capture the moments.

A raffle was held also, giving away an ornate gold and black party dress to a random ticket-holder. Meanwhile, the DJ played dance music, such as Kanye West and Two Door Cinema remixes, along with classic '80s songs accompanied by a heavy bass.

Aside from drawing in citizens with an interest in the fashion industry, Fashion Forward! also gives designers an opportunity to display their pieces to the community, while models wear them on runways and distribute pamphlets and fliers for local shops in Chicago.

One Chicago designer, Wanda Cobar, exhibited her line called “Erupted Love,” which utilized an assortment of colors and materials: red, black, plastic, chiffon and more, paired with corsets and heart-shaped zipper pulls. Emages Design focused on handbags, a must-have for anyone with multiple items to carry. The handbags consisted of fringe, studs, brighter colors, as well as more neutral tones. Articles of clothing included pieces designed specifically for Chicago winters, Sunday church, high school prom, and attending school events, such as a spelling bee.

Fashion Forward! was only one aspect of Chicago's fashion week, entitled Fashion Focus. Fashion Focus, an annual affair, includes a multitude of events available for fashionistas, designers, and models who wish to show off their skills. Fashion shows, museum exhibits, social events, and plenty of shopping opportunities both at boutiques and vintage establishments draw the attention of stylish Chicagoans and provide chances to become involved in the fashion scene. Millennium Park, Chicago Cultural Center, Plumbers Hall, Supreme Novelty Fabrics, and The Adela Red Studios all provided space for these events.

Although New York City, London, Milan and Paris may have bigger and better names than Chicago in the worldwide fashion industry, Fashion Focus sets Chicago apart from other large cities, and in turn creates an amazing fashion week catering just to the Midwest. Fashion Focus allows for exploration of vogue accessories and creative outfits, without having to fly to a fashion capital. Thanks to Fashion Focus, Chicago's designers, models, and style pursuers get a taste of high fashion, right here in the Windy City.

Denver Art Museum brings together 70 works by van Gogh to reveal key steps in his artistic evolution

Becoming Van Gogh, an in-depth exploration of Vincent van Gogh’s unconventional path to becoming one of the world’s most recognizable artists, will be on view at the Denver Art Museum from October 21, 2012, through January 20, 2013. The exhibition examines critical steps in the largely self-taught artist’s evolution through more than 70 paintings and drawings by Van Gogh, along with works by artists he responded to. Organized by the DAM and curated by Timothy J. Standring, Gates Foundation Curator of Painting and Sculpture at the DAM and Louis van Tilborgh, Senior Researcher of Paintings at Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum, Becoming Van Gogh brings together loans from more than 60 public and private collections from across Europe and North America to tell the story of a number of key formative periods throughout the artist’s career.

“This is a unique opportunity for our audience to discover how Van Gogh arrived at his iconic style and gain new insights into his influences,” said Christoph Heinrich, Frederick and Jan Mayer Director of the DAM. “We are thrilled to bring together an exhibition that will give visitors new insight into one of the world’s greatest artists.” By focusing on the various stages of Van Gogh’s artistic development, Becoming Van Gogh illustrates the artist’s initial foray into mastering draftsmanship, understanding the limitations and challenges of materials and techniques, learning to incorporate color theory and folding a myriad of influences, including other artists, into his artistic vocabulary. No other exhibition has focused so intensely on Van Gogh’s personal growth and progression in his journey toward his own personal style. Becoming Van Gogh will take visitors on a journey through the artist’s stylistic development via his dramatic paintings and drawings. Throughout each section, critical developments in his personal style are called out, illustrating how Van Gogh’s well-known signature form developed. The exhibition begins with a focus on how Van Gogh imbued his early works with energy and verve as he strove to master drawing with graphite, ink and washes; how he begin to understand color with watercolor paintings; and how he began to test his skill with oils on canvas.

Van Gogh turned all of his creative energies towards mastering the tools that would enable him to render the visual world as he saw it by learning as much as he could about the formal elements of art, color theory, painting techniques, compositional methods and more. Visitors will see Van Gogh’s artistic maturation through works created after his arrival in Paris. His Parisian period, from 1886 to 1888, is perhaps the crucial period of his professional career because his artistic temperament shifted from works focused on social subject matter to works driven largely by aesthetic and artistic concerns. This, the heart of the exhibition, is the period when he strove to attain a considerable degree of artistic self-confidence by responding to the stylistic and ideological shifts of the Parisian art world happening at the same time. During this eventful two-year period, Impressionism mounted its eighth–and last–official group exhibition, Seurat startled the world at the annual exhibition Salon des Indépendants with his use of divisionism in the painting Un Dimanche après-midi à l'Île de la Grande Jatte, Signac and Pissarro followed his example with a softened variant known as pointillism, Bernard launched a salvo of synthetism and Toulouse-Lautrec recorded the bohemian culture of Montmartre.

Acutely aware of these avant-garde trends and working closely with artists such as Émile Bernard and Paul Signac, Van Gogh both experimented with and eventually transformed these styles into something wholly personal and unique. During this time Van Gogh met and interacted with many of these artists, all of whom are represented by significant works in the exhibition. “This exhibition demonstrates Van Gogh’s conscious decision to commit himself as an artist,” said exhibition curator Timothy Standring, pointing out that the man best known for his paintings also tried out other careers–including an assistant art dealer and minister. “His work was systematic and rational as he sought to arrive at his personal style, not simply the result of emotional outbursts of creativity.”

Fashion icon makes stop in River City

Fashion icon Calvin Klein shared his life story Wednesday night at the Victory Theatre in downtown Evansville.

Klein's advertising campaigns have redefined the way products are marketed to consumers. Among his many honors, Time Magazine in 1996 named him one of the most influential Americans.

He shared lessons from the runway to build a global brand.

"It's very exciting to have somebody who's truly a household name all around the world and it seems like everyone has some sort of personal connection to one of the products that he has, whether it's clothing, fragrance, home design, it's a very diverse and well known business," said Kristen Lund with the University of Evansville.

Klein's visit is sponsored by the Institute for Global Enterprise in Indiana, part of the Schroeder Family School of Business Administration at the University of Evansville.

This Ma wears B'deshi accessories

To add to the grandeur of Durga puja this year, puja organising authorities in Jankipuram have ferried accessories for the deity from Bangladesh.

The exquisite jewelleries-crown, necklace, bracelet, earrings and nose rings- hand crafted by Bangladeshi designer Altaf Hussain is set to give the Durga idol a global look.

"The city artists have given the idol a traditional look that goes well with the grand ensemble. The ambience here have been set in such a hue to give Bengalis a feel of Bangladesh," Puja committee member Saurabh Bandhopadhyay revealed.

The Rs. 60,000 accessories for the goddess will surely be a crowd-puller this year, Bandhopadhyay says.
"For years artist Altaf Hussain has been making accessories for Durga for different Raajbaris and zamindar families. To recreate the 'sabekiana' (traditional) here in the City of Nawabs, the puja committee roped in Hussain for making the embellishments for the goddess earlier this year," he adds.

Like in Jankipuram many other Puja committees are draping their deity in Kanjeevarams, Banarasis and silk this puja.

Many say, this year 'Maa' (the goddess) would be a designers' delight, as particular attention is being paid to on the deity's look.

Ramakrishna Math too is not far behind in this competition. The Math has already purchased two Banarasi sarees, one for the deity and another for the Kumari (young maiden), on whom the deity would be invoked.
All the nine forms of goddess Durga here are being prepared by Navadurga Puja committee of Barabanki.
The Math authorities also are flying flower ornaments from Kolkata, to deck the divine Kumari and the goddess.

Black Tiger Affair: Fashion inspiration through film

Movies give insight to what’s popular in fashion during that film’s time period.

We can look at current movies for contemporary trends and classic movies to take inspiration from the past. No matter what era the movie is in, good fashion is timeless.


1.“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961)

“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” may be 50 years old, but it still holds up in all things chic.

It is because of this movie that the little black dress should be a part of every girl’s repertoire. Audrey Hepburn was a style icon, especially in this film.

Actually, on anything she ever wore, you should take note.


2.“Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy” (2011)

An espionage movie set in England in the 1970s about a tinker, tailor, solider and spy—with an extra emphasis on the tailor part.

The movie focuses more on detail and tailoring rather than big collars and flared pants.

With more three-piece suits to shake a stick at “Tinker, Tailor, Solider, Spy” is a great movie to inspire some English charm to your wardrobe.

If this movie doesn’t make you want to wear tweed, I don’t know what will.


3.“Coco Before Chanel” (2009)

A movie that should be more revered because of Coco Chanel fashion rather than the movie itself. Chanel was a true innovator of women’s fashion.

She was her own muse. Instead of trying to copy the styles of other women, Chanel would dress differently to have other women copy her.

She forever changed the way women dressed, especially in her own time period.


4.“James Bond” series

From the early days of Sean Connery to the present days of Daniel Craig, Bond films are a great example of the evolution of the suit.

Not only the evolution of the suit, but the suit for every occasion. With the upcoming “Skyfall,” it is interesting to point out that the suit is becoming tighter.

Let’s not ignore the classic looks from the Bond girls.


5.“Do the Right Thing” (1989)

Spike Lee’s movie is not only one of the most powerful movies of the ‘80s, but it is unique in how a movie’s fashion impacted a generation.

Even though some of the outfits in the movie are cringe-worthy (biker shorts?) it is a movie where the fashion is all about being creative with your own individual style.

The film incorporated the mix of vibrant colors and patterns. It is also a movie on how ethnicity influences urban fashion.

“Do the Right Thing” is also where we learn the most important rule of all in fashion: never scuff the sneakers.

Shocking! Famed fashion house Schiaparelli revived

Shoe hats, lobster dresses, and spiraling goggle glasses could easily be part of a closet inventory belonging to Lady Gaga.

But these objects were all spawned from the mind of another woman, who was born — incredibly — in 1890: the avant-garde Elsa Schiaparelli.

The house of the influential fashion designer, and hated rival of Coco Chanel, is being revived this fall, in one of the most highly anticipated fashion events of 2012 in Paris. There's been a flurry of activity this year, including actress Farida Khelfa being named as house ambassador.

If Schiaparelli is no longer a household name — her business folded in 1954, and she died in 1973 — her design firsts have certainly lived on: newspaper prints, exposed zippers, perfume bottles in the female form, shocking pink, and — arguably — the first woman's power suit.

"The house Schiaparelli is really the DNA of fashion," says Khelfa. "When you see the world of fashion across the century, you can see all the people she has inspired —all the great couturiers of the last century and this one."

The new house will, of course, inherit all the iconic house codes, but — lacking an artistic director and any clothes dating past 1954 — it surely must be one of the most curious fashion relaunches in recent times.


"It feels like the right moment... and things are moving quickly," said Khelfa who added they've finally found a key piece of the puzzle in reacquiring the original showroom on the 21 Place Vendome, which will set the tone for the clothes production, expected next summer.

"It's really something to be in the very place of creation. We can imagine the boutique downstairs, with all the window displays made by (artist Salvador) Dali. ... In her day, there were three great women at Place Vendome: Schiaparelli, Madame Chanel and Madame Gres. Now we're back."

Inside the revamped showroom, Schiaparelli bigwigs have painstakingly recreated her surrealist universe. Original artifacts that artists designed for the Schiaparelli boutique are proudly on display. Across five salons, glittering gold columns by Alberto Giacometti, a powder compact in the shape of a telephone dial by Dali, a wacky colored carpet by Fernand Leger, spiraling metal glasses created by Man Ray.

Also featured is a "cabinet of curiosity" which featured the perfume Shocking — a reminder of why the Schiaparelli name became world renowned. A one-foot (30-centimeter) curved fuchsia perfume bottle stands provocatively in the shape of the bust of Hollywood sex symbol Mae West — a design echoed by designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier. "Shocking" was an adjective on high rotation in the Schiaparelli vocabulary. She invented a bright fuchsia hue — the now world famous "shocking pink" — that she chose as the house's signature color.

In 1948, according to company lore, a survey of Americans put Elsa Schiaparelli at the top of their list of most famous French people. But they still couldn't pronounce her name: the "Sch" is hard, as in "school."

A much-publicized exhibit at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art in May, featuring Schiaparelli's dresses alongside modern Prada ones, introduced her melodic name to whole a new generation, but showed how avant-garde her designs remain.

People "had trouble seeing which was the dress from 1927 and which was from 2012," says Khelfa. "Often the 1927 ones looked more current! That's true avant-garde."

Paris-based fashion writer Rebecca Voight sees the launch as hugely promising. "She still has such an incredibly vibrant image and what a name. The people behind the launch are really in the know, so there's really no reason they'll get it wrong. The question is who will (the designer) be?"

The identity of the artistic director remains the biggest question mark.

The pressure for the launch to succeed may perhaps explain why there's still been no formal announcement, although it was scheduled for September.

Khelfa and Schiaparelli CEO Camilla Schiavone dismissed rumors that John Galliano might be in the running, but they both refused to reveal a short-list.

Schiavone tried to explain away the secrecy.

"The house was rebought in 2006. Now, we have the property. We've waited so long to get it right. We're not interested in running after someone. But you will know in the next three weeks or so. The first, what I call, ready-to-couture collection will probably be June 2013."

Ready-to-couture is a concept Schiavone hopes will keep the classy profile of the Schiaparelli name. Garments won't be available in boutiques but will be made-to-measure for select clients who are invited to the 21 Place Vendome for fittings. Though the house says the aim is to produce highly wearable clothes, the first collection will be shown during the Paris Haute Couture week — fittingly, alongside historic rival Chanel.

In their heyday, Coco Chanel dismissed Schiaparelli as "that Italian artist who makes clothes." Schiaparelli responded, equally cattily, calling Chanel "that milliner."

Fashion rivalries are in vogue at the moment. A highlight of this year's fashion calendar involves the media pitting the two new designers at Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior against each other.

So after 60 years does the Schiaparelli revival signal there'll once again be handbags at dawn on the Place Vendome?

GSEA Fashion Group Now Operating Its Own Apparel Manufacturing Plant in Lima, Peru

Young entrepreneur Anthony Rosa is building a fashion empire on the tip of a Peruvian janitor. Rosa, the president and CEO of Global Sourcing & Enterprise Apparel (GSEA) Fashion Group, LLC, had spent six years in China learning the apparel manufacturing industry inside and out, and by 2007 he was ready to start his own factory. A chance conversation with an office custodian from Peru led Rosa, a native of Perth Amboy, NJ and of Puerto Rican descent, to that country, where he proceeded to build his factory brick by brick.

This video chronicles the journey of GSEA Fashion Group and the road traveled to formally start a company 3000 miles away in Lima, Peru. Acquiring credentials, purchasing property, building an apparel manufacturing plant and developing a team of employees to share in the core values of the company through faith, hard work and commitment to the vision.

Today, GSEA Fashion Group is producing branded apparel for fashion labels around the globe. In Lima, Rosa found the ideal combination of affordable land, proximity to the U.S., low manufacturing costs, and a perennial supply of premium pima cotton. On-trend T-shirts, novelty tops, hoodies, tank tops and dresses are just a few of the fashion bestsellers rolling out of Peru to meet global demand. The GSEA Peru factory handles orders that come in through the GSEA Fashion Group office in New York's fashion district, which also houses three of GSEA's proprietary brands: got G.A.M.E.?, Project Threads and the most recently launched Glossy Chick.

As GSEA Fashion Group navigates through the next phase of its development in Peru, the entire GSEA enterprise continues to define itself. Rosa credits his company's success to GSEA Fashion Group's close-knit and talented team, which embodies one of the company's core values, "Build a Positive Team and Family Spirit," and includes experts in global branding, logistics, fashion merchandising, retailing and graphic design.

Rosa may have taken the long way to success in the fiercely competitive fashion industry, but in never giving up on his aspirations, the University of Miami graduate has managed to carve out a niche for GSEA Fashion Group: producing factory-direct, high-quality knit garments with Peru's finest Pima Cotton.  "We are committed to the growth of our factory in Peru and expanding our operation here in NY.  Our attention now turns to seeking the right partner to help infuse the growth capital required to allow for that type of expansion and increase our production capacity," Rosa explained.