USA:Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty – a powerful exhibition

 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art announced that the exhibition Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty, which closed last night at midnight, attracted 661,509 visitors during its run from May 4 to August 7, placing it among the Museum's top 10 most visited exhibitions. Joining other blockbusters on the list such as Treasures of Tutankhamun (1978), Mona Lisa (1963), and Picasso in The Metropolitan Museum of Art (2010), Savage Beauty ranks as the eighth most popular exhibition ever held at the Met in its 141-year history, and is the most visited of the special exhibitions organized by The Costume Institute since it became part of the Museum in 1946.

"We are enormously gratified that visitors turned out in record numbers to view this powerful exhibition of McQueen's work," said Thomas P. Campbell, Director and CEO of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. "The show was an elegant tribute to the designer's artistry, and we are proud to have shared it with such a broad audience, eager to experience the breadth of his genius."

To accommodate the public's keen interest, the Museum extended the exhibition by one week, offered a special viewing hour for Members daily at 8:30 a.m., added late hours through midnight on the last weekend, and implemented $50 ticketed Mondays with McQueen so the public could see the exhibition when the Museum was normally closed. The eight Mondays when the exhibition was open attracted more than 17,000 visitors. During the run of the retrospective, more than 23,000 new Members joined at the Museum—more than double last year's comparable numbers.

The exhibition catalogue has sold well over 100,000 copies to date through the Met's book stores and website, as well as through other outlets, with distribution by Yale University Press. Popular McQueen merchandise in the Met Shops, including armadillo shoe ornaments, crystal skull paperweights, and tartan purses, sold out several times and were repeatedly reordered.

The exhibition could not be extended further because the galleries need to be turned over for the preparation of the exhibition "Wonder of the Age": Master Painters of India, 1100-1900, which will open on September 28.

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty is made possible by Alexander McQueen.

Additional support is provided in partnership with American Express and Condé Nast.  

USA:Rachel Roy & David Meister join Style Week Orange County

 

Two of America’s top designers, Rachel Roy and David Meister, will present fall runway shows at Orange County’s top fashion event, Style Week Orange County. Both designers will stage their shows at Fashion Island during Style Week Orange County, which returns Friday, Sept. 30 through Saturday, Oct. 8 to Irvine Spectrum Center and for the first time, Fashion Island in Newport Beach. Throughout the event, thousands of style-savvy visitors are expected to attend dozens of runway shows, fashion festivities, cooking demonstrations and in-store events at both centers throughout the week.

Fashion Island will host a fashion presentation by Rachel Roy on Oct. 6 at 1 p.m. in the Neiman Marcus-Bloomingdale’s Courtyard, followed by a meet and greet at Neiman Marcus. Roy will showcase her Fall 2011 collection on the runway, which is highlighted by an emphasis on layering, prints and texture in pieces that transition from day to night. Fans can expect to see a chic modern take on classic silhouettes which has become synonymous with Roy’s collection.

A California native, Roy is known for her feminine and sophisticated pieces that allow women to embrace fashion with an effortless elegance and confidence. First Lady Michelle Obama and actresses Halle Berry, Kate Hudson, Gwyneth Paltrow are among those who have worn her designs. In one of the fashion industries highest honors, she was inducted into the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) in 2007 and touted by Oprah Winfrey as “the next big name in fashion.”

Fashion Island will also host a runway show by David Meister on Oct. 5 at 1 p.m. in the Neiman-Marcus Bloomingdale’s Courtyard, followed by a meet and greet at Bloomingdale’s. A Los Angeles resident, Meister is known for his sophisticated and body conscious lines of modern day dresses, cocktail dresses, and gowns which are carried in the nation’s top luxury department stores.

Some of the most recognized women in Hollywood have worn gowns by Meister on the red carpet, including Diane Lane, Katherine Heigl, Tina Fey, Fergie, Queen Latifah, Drew Barrymore, Sharon Stone and others. Meister is a long-standing member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and has appeared on numerous news and entertainment shows with his fashion expertise.

“With Style Week Orange County’s debut at Fashion Island this year, we are thrilled to present two of America’s most respected designers, Rachel Roy and David Meister,” said Laura Davis, Senior Marketing Director of Fashion Island and Irvine Spectrum Center. “As Style Week celebrates its fourth year, this is another example of how the event is evolving to showcase both new, local talent and world renowned designers for our fashionable guests.”

Style Week Orange County events confirmed to date include:

• Rack Rave: Fri., Sept. 30, 7 to 9 p.m. at Irvine Spectrum Center -- Celebrity designer, Project Runway alumni and red carpet commentator Nick Verreos will emcee Rack Rave, a fun fashion carnival in Giant Wheel Court featuring informal modeling, interactive events, giveaways, shopping incentives, entertainment by a DJ and sweet treats.
 

USA:Music & Fashion : HeartSOUL collaborates with JOJO

 

To celebrate HeartSOUL's upcoming collaboration with platinum recording artist JOJO, the two announced they are kicking off a national search for the next fresh face of HeartSOUL. Later this year JOJO will partner with the stylish yet affordable label for their Fall/Winter collection.

Two models will be handpicked by HeartSOUL, in conjunction with Facebook fans, and flown to Los Angeles to participate in the brand's upcoming photo shoot campaign in Palm Springs, California. Each winner will receive a Fall HeartSOUL wardrobe and a round trip ticket for (1) to Los Angeles for the shoot.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, HeartSOUL is a leader in the junior contemporary market, consistently turning out fun, affordable and on trend pieces for the junior lifestyle sector. Their core audience is an 18 to 34 year old career oriented girl, looking for great fashion basics to update her wardrobe. Like HeartSOUL, JOJO is a stylish, career driven women and we could not be more thrilled to have her on board. "I am excited to team up with HeartSOUL because fashion is a big part of my life and it's great to share it with my fans," says JOJO.

"We are beyond excited to have JOJO represent HeartSOUL. Our customers love music and fashion so what better way then to merge the two. JOJO is synonymous with pop culture and we are confident she will resonate with shoppers who want great style at exceptional value," Lars Viklund, President of HeartSOUL.

JOJO's first single DISASTER launches on September 6th.

HeartSOUL is a casual and career junior lifestyle brand that operates under Big Strike. HeartSOUL ships over one million pieces per month to department and specialty stores including Kohl's, JC Penny and Sears, to name a few. Big Strike's diversified portfolio includes affordable career tops in the junior's category in addition to recently expanding into bottoms with the acquisition of J.C. Penney staple's Star City and Tracy Evans. Big Strike was founded in 1987 by fashion vets Lars Viklund, Jodi Sundberg, and Kevin Talbot.  

USA:David Meister to host first annual Designs for 'pink tie' gala

 

Susan G. Komen Los Angeles announced that esteemed American fashion designer David Meister will host the first annual Designs for the Cure Gala at the Bel-Air Bay Club Friday, Oct. 28, from 6 p.m. to midnight. In partnership with the Otis College of Art and Design, the “pink tie” gala will bring together the world of fashion, celebrities and cancer survivors to raise funds for breast cancer screening, education, treatment and research.

The event will feature a celeb-studded pink carpet, cocktail reception, dinner, and fabulous silent and live auctions featuring one-of-a-kind experiences and items generously donated by supporters. Music and entertainment for the evening will be provided by DJ Timbo, one of the most popular DJs on the West Coast, and Vox Lumiere, a highly acclaimed Los Angeles theater production company that combines live music and dance performances against a backdrop of classic silent films.

David Meister. David is an esteemed American fashion designer known for his sophisticated, yet body conscious, women’s wear. Exclusive stores such as Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman carry his designs, which are worn by socialites and celebrities alike. A popular television personality, Susan G. Komen Los Angeles is excited to have him as one of their top Pink Tie Guys and host for this fashionable event.

Susan G. Komen Los Angeles has been named a top-rated charity by Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent evaluator of charities, for a second year in a row. Over the past 15 years, the Komen Los Angeles County Affiliate has raised over $8.9 million to provide community-based grants to local organizations providing breast cancer screening, education, and treatment services and to help fund national breast cancer research programs.  

USA:Second group of designers for CFDA Fashion Incubator announced

 

The Council of Fashion Designers of America announced the group of designers selected to participate in the CFDA’s 2012 – 2014 program. The “class ii” designers are:

Antonio Azzuolo, a.a. ANTONIO AZZUOLO
Arielle Shapiro, ARI DEIN
Benjamin and Doug Burkman, BURKMAN BROS
Christian Cota, CHRISTIAN COTA
Emanuela Duca, EMANUELA DUCA
Ricky Hendry and Marc Daniels, ISAORA
Luis M Fernandez, NUMBER: LAB
Reece Solomon, REECE HUDSON
Maayan Zilberman and Nikki Dekker, THE LAKE & STARS
Timo Weiland and Alan Eckstein, TIMO WEILAND

“It is very promising for the fashion industry that there is such a deep and diverse pool of talented and hard-working designers. We look forward to providing meaningful educational opportunities with the industry’s leading experts to support their efforts”, said Lisa Smilor, CFDA Deputy Director.

Located at 209 West 38th Street in New York City’s Garment District, the is the CFDA’s newest program designed to support the next generation of fashion designers. The mission is to help grow and sustain the business of the participating tenants over the course of two years. The provides a creative professional environment to foster promising fashion talent, and help selected designers grow and sustain their business. By offering low-cost design studio space, business mentoring, educational seminars, and networking opportunities, the program provides a way for participants to reach their full potential and become an integral part of the New York Fashion community.

The new group of designers for the class of 2012-2014 will move into their studios at the commencement of the second season of the program in May 2012.

The CFDA is very happy to announce Target’s renewed support as Underwriter of the program for 2012-2014. The association between Target and is the latest in an ongoing series of partnerships with CFDA dating back to 1998. Over the years, Target has provided significant financial resources for post-graduate and scholarship programs.

“The CFDA has played a significant role in shaping the industry’s most celebrated designers, many of whom have found a home at Target,” said Trish Adams, senior vice president of apparel and accessories, Target. “By continuing our sponsorship of the Fashion Incubator, Target is helping the CFDA offer the rising stars of tomorrow an opportunity to further hone their craft and develop the business acumen needed to be successful in a highly competitive marketplace.The CFDA is also pleased to announce its partnership with New York University’s Stern Consulting Corps, which will commence on September 23, 2011.

designers will have the opportunity to work with a specially-identified group of New York University Stern MBA students who will help develop full financial statements, cash flow projections, and investor-ready business plans. Joe Ferrara, a member of NYU’s Venture Mentoring Network and board member of New York Angels, commented that “this is a wonderful opportunity for a premier MBA program to connect students to live businesses right here in New York City”. “The Stern Consulting Corps will bring discipline to financial planning and business plan development, so designers will have a fighting chance to recruit investors and build successful businesses.” “Together they will learn the business of fashion.”
 

USA:Caryna Nina demonstrates brilliance as an haute couture designer

 

Caryna Nina, Fashion Designer and Chief Executive Officer of Caryna Nina, has been recognized by Cambridge Who's Who for showing dedication, leadership and excellence in fashion design.

Caryna Nina has maintained a long-standing interest in fashion. Her keen awareness of the fashion world and her ability to openly embrace the rich, beautiful and vivid colors surrounding her has allowed her to experience continued growth as a fashion designer. As the owner of a women's fashion line, she provides high-end women's clothing that is sold through retail and online store locations. She features graceful dresses, kimonos, caftans, cover-ups, coats, and day and evening wear. As a designer, she regularly creates elegant, one-of-a-kind pieces, gets customer orders made in New York, and picks out extraordinary fabrics. She particularly loves working with silk chiffon.

Raised in Greenwich, Conn. and Paris, Caryna Nina returns frequently to Europe to find inspiration for her designs. She has been designing women's one-of-a-kind clothing under her own label, Caryna Nina, for almost 12 years. She has two retail stores, one in Palm Beach and the other in Martha's Vineyard. She also has a showroom, which is by appointment only, in Greenwich. Caryna Nina worked as an assistant designer for Catherine Puget, an haute couture bridal atelier in Paris, before returning to Connecticut to launch her own line and showroom in 2000.

Caryna Nina earned a diploma in Renaissance Art History from Pepperdine, an associate degree from Parsons, The New School for Design, and studied at Studio Art Center International Florence (SACI). She looks forward to opening a store in Capri, as well as small boutiques in places that she thinks will work for what she does.  

UK:2012 BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund applications open

 

The British Fashion Council opens applications for the 2012 BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund. The Award, now in its 3rd year, consists of £200,000 and access to director-level mentors across the industry.

The winner and seven other shortlisted designers will be featured in the March issue of Vogue, and will gain access to a panel of business-development and industry mentors to support their business, brand and collection development over a 12-month period.

Designers eligible for the scheme must have an established business and be based in the UK, with both domestic and international stockists and support from key media in the UK and internationally.

The Fund was launched by BFC Chairman Harold Tillman CBE in September 2008 at a Downing Street reception. Vogue, partner of the Fund, whose March issue is on sale in early February, not only features the designers shortlisted, but also supports the mentoring programme through editor meetings and, for the first time in 2011, a symposium, which will address collective business issues. The inaugural winner of the award for 2010 was Erdem and the 2011 winner was Christopher Kane.

Eligible designers are invited to submit applications no later than 14th November, 2011. The judging committee, chaired by Vogue Editor Alexandra Shulman, is made up of patrons and industry experts, who will then shortlist applicants to be invited for interview. Marigay McKee, Fashion and Beauty Director at Harrods, chairs the mentoring panel. The winner will be announced in February 2012.

The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund is supported by Aquascutum, Burberry, Clothing at Tesco, Debenhams, Harrods, House of Fraser, HSBC, Jaeger, LF Europe, Marks & Spencer, Paul Smith, TONI & GUY, TOPSHOP, Vogue and Westfield Shopping Towns.

The British Fashion Council has an international reputation for supporting emerging talent through its existing schemes: NEWGEN, supported by TOPSHOP; NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN; and Fashion Forward, sponsored by Coutts & Co and supported by the Mayor of London.

The BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund aims to support business growth and create employment opportunities. It is more than complementary to the BFC designer support schemes - it provides an essential new platform to focus on developing profile and growth for British designer businesses.  

USA:Charleston Fashion Week in search of Model for fall season

 

Charleston Fashion Week has announced that in addition to accepting applicants online, they will hold open model castings in Charleston, Atlanta, and Charlotte for the March 20-24, 2012 event. Accredited with discovering and cultivating talent, former CFW models have gone on to land contracts with IMG and Elite and television appearances on America’s Next Top Model. The CW series featuring Tyra Banks, Nigel Barker, and Jay Manuel most recently voted Charleston Fashion Week former model Molly O’Connell as a finalist during season 16 of the successful show.

In conjunction with the Spring Bridal Show, chic after-parties and citywide shopping events, the premier fashion event will feature close to 35 runway shows under the tents in Marion Square. Charleston Fashion Week organizers look to add as many as 300 male and female models to the event look book this fall. All models that are cast for Charleston Fashion Week 2012 will receive a gift bag, recognition on the CFW website, and the opportunity to compete in the Rock the Runway Model Competition.

Charleston Fashion Week March 20-24, 2012 Model Castings:
*models under 18 required are to attend with a guardian; online application is required to secure an audition for any of the below

Charleston:
Saturday, September 24, 2011 & Saturday, October 22, 2011
Location: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Atlanta:
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Location: The Art Institute of Atlanta - Decatur
One West Court Square, Suite 110, Decatur, GA 30030

Charlotte:
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Location: The Art Institute of Charlotte
Three LakePointe Plaza, 2110 Water Ridge Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28217

Showcasing fashion designers, retailers and models, Charleston Fashion Week has fast become one of the premier fashion weeks in North America. Held March 20-24, 2012 under the tents in Marion Square in Charleston, SC, this five-night celebration will feature more than 35 runway shows, the Spring Bridal Show, Emerging Designer Competition: East, and Rock the Runway Model Competition. Named a Top 20 Event for March by the Southeast Tourism Society, this true multimedia event presents high-end runway shows, interactive entertainment, chic after-parties, and charitable fundraisers.  

India:Kallol presents very creative collection for Berling Show @ LFW

 

Short listed by the Lakmé Fashion Week Advisory board, Kallol Datta 1955 presented his collections for the Berlin Calling show at Lakmé fashion Week Winter/Festive 2011.

This initiative supported by IMG Reliance and IMG Fashion teams will see Indian representation at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week – Berlin - Autumn Winter 2012 in January. The platform will not only support the selected designer in presenting the runway show but will also ensure that the opportunity is leveraged effectively in representing India internationally.

Working his characteristic design sensibilities into his garments, Kallol Datta’s Winter/Festive 2011 collection for Lakmé Fashion Week was an extension of his Fall/Winter 2011-12 line done earlier. Choosing some unusual fabrics for the season, Kallol opted for wool, wool blends, silk, crepes, satins, nets, voiles, kora silks, gauze and calico in a dual colour palette of black and white with hints of blue and pink.

Known for his quirky but very striking totally identifiable prints, Kallol introduced the “Namesake” series of motifs to add that distinct look to his collection.

The designer’s choice of embellishments has always been eye-catching; so this season Kallol used braids and tassels in natural and artificial fibres for impressive 3D construction and added on foil printing and gypsum coating.

Presenting a crisp tightly edited show of 16 garments, Kallol displayed three series namely - Conception, Namesake and Paper Plane with the very creative construction that he is known for.

The Conception series revealed some interesting ensembles like the foil print dress and the skinnies and palazzos combo. The Namesake segment had a cropped jacket; the askew kurta teamed with a cropped jacket with tasseled wool skinnies or skirt, and rounded it off with a striking askew dress. When it came to the Paper Plane group the designer had a wrap dress, a multiple hoodie and even kept the ethnic dresser happy with his braided disjointed waistcoat and Paper Plane sari.

For women who want to enhance their personal style with garments that are show stopping; then Kallol Datta’s collection will undoubtedly evoke the desired effect.  

Belgium:Gallery2020. a high-quality fashion event

 

On Monday the 8th of August 2011 the first summer edition of Gallery2020 in Antwerp (Belgium) came to an end. Thinking back about the many happy faces spotted during the event of both the exhibitors and the visitors, we are extremely hopeful with regards to the fair’s commercial results.

Although the amount of visiting shops was 15% lower (1950 in total) than during the first winter edition, the reactions of the exhibitors regarding the qualitative standard of the Belgian and Dutch (13%) retailers were full of praise.

The exhibitors urged the organisers to definitely maintain the top-quality character of Gallery2020 during the next editions. The fact that this restriction hereby limits the number of collections to 250 is definitely not considered to be a negative aspect. Quite the contrary!

Gallery2020 has to remain a well-arranged and high-quality fair with regards to offer and visitors. Therefore, the selection committee must keep on doing its utmost in order to make the right choices.

It is therefore completely justified to grant Gallery2020 the following label: “pleasant and wonderful fair with regards to general atmosphere and a magnificent selection of labels and collections”.

Gallery2020 winter edition: 5 and 6 February 2012 in Antwerp Expo.  

USA:Giambattista Valli as ‘Impulse’ designer

 

Macy's announced Giambattista Valli as the fourth designer in its collaboration series to create a capsule collection for the retailer's fashion "Impulse" department later this fall. Known for extravagant designs and great party dresses, the collection will be Valli's first foray into affordable fashion. Launching on Oct. 26 with limited-edition women's apparel pieces, the "Giambattista Valli for Impulse Only at Macy's" collection will be sold in approximately 225 Macy's stores nationwide. Valli's unique style and signature craftsmanship is fully reflected in this bold collection that features everything from sequin-encrusted jackets to a soutache dress.

"This capsule reflects my enduring loves, but is really a celebration of my biggest inspiration of all - the energy and vitality of women themselves," said Giambattista Valli. "I love dressing them for all their happiest moments, making them feel as special as possible. This collection is a passport into my world and a chance to experience the passion and romance of my house and Paris itself."

The Giambattista Valli capsule reflects the designer's best-loved hallmarks and flourishes that have made him an international sensation and chosen couturier for the world's most fabulous young women. Featuring gloriously feminine fabrics, bold prints and his famous riotous color, the collection is grounded in red and black with gold, grey and fuchsia infused throughout. The line will feature cocktail dresses, flirty skirts, feminine blouses, lightweight jackets, edgy pants and graphic t-shirts. Key textures like lace, tweed, brocade, faux fur and point d'esprit tulle will capture the designer's celebrated stylistic sensibilities. In addition, the combination of Valli's master tailoring and keen eye for print, color and volume results in a collection that clearly reflects his signature aesthetic. Hinting at the upcoming holiday party season, this capsule offers collectible pieces made for outgoing and fierce fashionistas who are ready to be "Valli Girls."

"It is a tribute to the success of this capsule series for Macy's to partner with Giambattista Valli on his first venture into affordable luxury goods," said Jeff Gennette, Macy's chief merchandising officer. "He is a visionary talent known for extravagant designs, so heading into the holiday season is a perfect moment for his creations in our stores. This collection strikes just the right balance between youthfulness and sophistication, speaking directly to our fashion 'Impulse' customer."

Born and raised in Rome, Giambattista Valli has been influenced by his heritage, the movies of Antonioni and inspired by French fashion through the watercolors of Yves Saint Laurent and the drawings of Gruau. Pursuing his dream, Valli enrolled in the Istituto Europeo del Design in 1986 and then in an illustration class at Central St. Martin's School of Arts in London in 1987. Returning to Italy, he studied under Roberto Capucci and was introduced to the dramatic haute couture clothes and the bursting colors of the Roman master. After a two year period with Capucci, the Fendi family called him to oversee, as Senior Designer, the newly born Fendissime ine. There he experimented with prêt-à-porter in the world of the young, hip Roman clientele. Travelling restlessly between collections, he filled his imagination and mind continuously with the many influences of India's Mina's songs, New York of Halston, Antonio Lopez and Bianca Jagger, Paris with Jeanne Moreau, Fellini's costumes and the women of the café society who would become an important source of inspiration for the times to come.
 

India:Sabyasachi’s colour fantasy for Winter/Festive

 

Lots of colour with the distinct touches from the Maestro of Style and Design from Kolkata along with four dozen models of different shapes, ages and sizes on the ramp can turn the show into a mind blowing experience for the audience.

That is how the third day of Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2011 ended as Sabyasachi Mukherjee presented men, women and children on the ramp in an ingenious manner, to confirm his fashionable position on the charts as the designer who can dress anybody, in any size or sex in stylish creations.

Bringing the models in colour coordinated groups – quite an interesting concept – Sabyasachi showed garments that moved in perfect harmony in style, silhouette and form.

Presenting the look of the North West Frontier Province and the styles favoured by the girls in Patiala, Sabyasachi added touches of Kathak and Kathakali for the silhouettes and the music and presentation. Using khadi, organza, net, silk and velvet and the beautiful thread work from Kashmir with Zardozi in shimmering silver with floral designs but restrained Bling; the show was an utterly satisfying experience of ethnic fashion that can be applauded anywhere in the world.

Twenty three entries comprising groups of models wearing similar outfits in different colour blocking, gave the viewers a unique choreography experience.

Black, brown, khaki, red, orange, black, white, the Sunderban floral prints, wide silhouettes, immaculate tailoring along with simple styles which could truly be considered basic, were so impressive, that they made an everlasting impression on the applauding audience.

To set the tempo of the show, Dr Mitul Sengupta, the famed Kathak Dancer dazzled the invitees with her expert foot work and then to the beat of her Kathak chants and the accompanying Rythmosaic band; the models made their restrained slow glide on the ramp.

The famed Kashmir embroidery appeared on boleros, waistcoats, and edges of swirling kurtas, bundis, tunics, cholis, cropped tops, sherwanis, and dupattas. The wide Patiala salwars, the elephant pants, the flowing palazzos and the cowled pants matched perfectly with the smocks, tunics, kurtas, and jackets.

The saris with ornate borders at times split into velvet and net with shimmering edges were teamed with long sleeved embroidered cholis. The gleaming velvet smocks with embellished bodices and Patiala salwars, the cute scaled down versions of the same for the young boys and girls, ensured that the collection will be a sure fire seller anywhere around the globe. Detailing was restricted to rows of tiny buttons down the front and the occasional Sunderban floral print appeared on men’s churidars, dupattas or saris leaving the majority of the show in solid monotones.

For sheer drama style and immense commercial viability in sales the 48 creations by Sabyasachi Mukherjee left the audience breathless and will thrill retailers as they will fly off the racks within minutes.
 

India: ‘Tasveer’ hits Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive

 

Aircel presented J J Valaya’s “Tasveer” couture collection with all the drama, grandeur and beauty at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2011. A brilliant photographer, J J Valaya’s collection inspired by his skills behind the lens was a frame by frame story of luxurious creations.

Starting with a black and white collection and then moving into sepia tones, followed by hand stained naturals and into a digital story; Valaya’s very regal line of garments was a study in crafts, fabrics and embellishments. Assorted white squares covered the walls of the Grand Hyatt Ballroom to project the images by J J Valaya, the designer - now also an acclaimed photographer. The backdrop on the stage was a collection of camera lenses and the show a very controlled and tightly designed revealed Valaya’s expertise as a designer and a visualiser of extreme crafts and embellishments.

Opening with the black and white section there was a mix of men’s and women’s creations – mandarin collar waist coat with white motifs, long gowns with tiny embroidered boleros or bodice and paneled sheer kurta and black churidars. The Sepia line had delicate brown and off-white work for printed saris with crystal work, extended sleeve kurtas, lehengas and cholis with net dupattas and paisleys embroidered skillfully for men’s Raja coats.

For the colour and digital segment, Valaya started with ravishing red for paneled long coats, velvet embroidered jackets with saris, bandgalas and lehengas with embellished yokes and then added digitally printed saris in royal blue and black dappled with rich crystals, stones and sequins finishing with a stunning floor length halter kurta in ink blue.

Bringing in his very popular Alika jacket, Valaya presented it with saris, lehengas and tunics. The lush saris in lamé studded with precious stones and crystals were visions of beauty in black and white digital prints. Gorgeous lehengas with velvet godets, gleaming crystals, encrusted embroidery and gold detailing appeared on specially woven fabrics. The silhouettes were a fusion of the traditional and contemporary as tiered creations were layered and flowing Farshiyas gave a royal touch to the garments.

The showman that Valaya is, he kept the most awesome for the last as he unleashed a final fashion blitz of dazzling lehengas with a mindboggling assortment of different versions of the Alika jacket in raw silk, shot silk, brocade and lamé all unbelievably beautiful to view. Accessories revolved around the very slim belts with pouches that appeared around waists, hips or on the bodice with saris and tunics. A very innovative take on bags indeed! For ultimate grandeur and opulent creations it is J J Valaya’s “Tasveer” collection presented by Aircel that women will undoubtedly long for not only this season, but for years to come.  

UK:Luna Sky to showcase new SS12 collection at LFW

 

Independent London based designer Luna Sky, is set to present her label LunaSky in September during London Fashion Week once again. Having lived in the fashion capitals including Tokyo, Milan, Paris and Hong Kong, Luna’s cultural and fashionable experiences merge to create her distinctive designs. Luna specialises in one of a kind dresses which are anticipated to awe her audience this September.

LunaSky is a label adaptable to all occasions and events and has proved a success amongst European, Asian and American clients. Living by the motto La vita e’ bella- Life is beautiful, Luna’s designs are created to make every woman feel like a princess. Inspired by chic elegant women who effortlessly transform the old-time classics into modern glamour in their individual styles, Luna’s designs are a definitive reflection of her inspirations.

August will see Luna showcase her stunning creations at Pure London at stand M97. Capturing the needs of every woman, LunaSky is a universally appealing label, endorsing elegance and individuality; a formula for fashionable success which will be attracting the fashion press and buyers. Luna Sky will be opening the LGN Events flagship bi-annual ‘A La Mode’ Catwalk show during London Fashion Week on 17th September.  

Australia:Rachael Taylor in Bonds latest ad

 

Australian actress and model Rachael Taylor has starred in the latest ad of clothing firm Bonds to promote the company’s new range of mesh and microfibre hipsters.

The ‘Transformers’, ‘Shutter’ and ‘Splinterheads’ star is also featuring in the company’s ‘Feel the colour’ online campaign aimed to attract occasional users of the Bonds brands.

In the campaign to be run across TV, Facebook and digital media, users are asked to choose a photo which they think would best suit on a pair of Bonds hipsters.

The company terms occasional Bonds users as those who also shop other brands when they look for fabrics other than the cotton lycra range offered by it.
 

Australia:RMIT’s Professor to address Conference of Fashion Incubators

 

The Third International Conference of Fashion Incubators will be held at the Parmelia Hilton in Perth from the 11th until the 13th of September 2011.

Associate Professor Karen Webster, Program Director Fashion, RMIT University and Festival Director of L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival (2005 -2010) will be addressing the conference on ‘Nurturing the future - How events and industry collide’.

In 1996 a group of visionaries gathered together to discuss the status of the Australian fashion industry struggling within a recessed economy, which was consequently creating a mood of anxiety, frustration and culpability. An idea sprang forth to develop a festival that celebrated the greatness inherent in the local fashion industry, in an attempt to shift focus from the negative impacts to the positive case studies.

The Melbourne Fashion Festival was born, a consumer orientated event that was to invigorate demand for fashion and assist the local industry in strengthening its bottom line. Fast-track fifteen years and the Melbourne Fashion Festival is now purported to be the largest public fashion event globally and in 2010 attracted over 420,ooo participants, included over 300 participating designers and brands, generated $48 million in national and international media coverage and contributed over $70 million to the Australian economy.

Karen’s presentation at the Third International Conference of Fashion Incubators will address the impact of major fashion events on the local industry and how they can be used as incubators for all involved from graduates, emerging designers and established brands.

The conference is being hosted by community organisations Textile Clothing Footwear Resource Centre of WA (TCFWA), designedge Fashion Incubator, TCF Global and the Belmont BEC. These organisations provide those in the fashion, TCF creative industries access to business workshops, online mentoring, forums, industry cluster networks, and national and global linkages to other small businesses operating in the textile, clothing, footwear & leather industry across Australia and around the globe.

The Third International Conference of Fashion Incubators will offer new opportunities for fashion business educators and fashion trade events from around the globe to network, discuss best practice and expand global designer marketing and promotional opportunities. The Conference will aim to build on past successful conferences of International Fashion Incubators held in UK and USA. It will assist the growth and development of fashion industry business educators and those that nurture and support emerging designers, as well as elevating Perth on the international fashion stage.

The event will present challenging speakers at the forefront of the industry as well as a range of practitioners willing to share their experiences and expertise, exhibitors and great opportunities for global networking. The Conference will also announce the establishment of an International Fashion Incubator Organisation.
 

UK:Buyers get down to business at Pure London

 

The 'who’s who of fashion buying' attended Pure London this weekend and the show closed its doors on Tuesday with a record number of exhibitors already committed to the show next February.

On track for another increase in total visitor numbers the riots in London affected the last day’s attendance resulting in the overall unique visitor numbers being down by 3%. Not deterred key buyers were committed, writing orders and spending up to 3 days at the show. 13% more visitors’ year on year returned for a second day of buying.

'Pure London is amazing, it is very well organised and there is so much to choose from. We need more than 3 days to get around! It is my first time at the show and we will definitely be coming back.' ommented Loubna El MKaour owner of Primrose boutique in Morocco.

Visitors included Fenwick, Harrods, Selfridges, House of Fraser, John Lewis, Debenhams, Urban Outfitters and Hoopers; as well as key independent retailers such as American Pie, Choice, Sarah Coggles, Sunday Best and Village Bicycle. Online stores included Amazon, ASOS, Figleaves, My Wardrobe, Net A Porter, Play and Very. International attendance was up by 3 % with visitors from Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Scandinavia and the US with buyers visiting from over 70 counties and from as far afield as Australia, Brazil, Japan, Hong Kong and UAE.

Mark Ashton, Managing Director of Little Mistress commented 'The show has been fantastic for us we’ve seen lots of new customers and we’ve opened 90 new accounts across 6 countries – UK, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Canada and Germany. Our clothes are going to be stocked in 500 shops in Canada which is amazing! Bank, Littlewoods and USC are all stocking our products across 36 stores so we’ve done incredibly well! Footfall has been quality not quantity but we still ran out of order pads and had to get more staff in!! We will definitely be rebooking.'

Celebrating its 30th season, Olympia saw the biggest selection of womenswear, footwear, accessories and premium brands while Earls Court 2 was home to the energising young fashion section, Spirit. This season over 1100 brands exhibited across both venues. Womenswear brands included Olivia Rubin, YaYa, Almost Famous, Sandwich, Ian Stuart, Selected Femme, Darling, Charming, Fenn Wright Manson and Anoushka G alongside top young fashion brands Quiksilver, Day 22, Desigual, Yumi, Molly Bracken, Only, Vila, Dahlia, Lavand and Mina. Footwear and Accessory brands included Celo B, Love from Australia, Fly London, French Sole, Sam Uhbi, Matt & Nat, Zandra Rhodes, Patrick Cox and Adele Marie.

Stitch co-located with Pure London for the second season, with brands such as Pretty Green, Original Penguin and Duck and Cover.

Mindy Dully, Sales Agent for footwear brand Redfoot commented ‘The show has been really busy! We have been very successful and found lots of new customers. It has been nonstop all day and we have seen a broad mixof buyers from a range of countries.’
 

Australia:Myer fashion luncheon at MBFF - Brisbane

 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival – Brisbane, hosted by South Bank, is back for 2011 and promises a stellar lineup of designers and a range of fashionable events to satisfy even the most sartorially starved crowds. It will run from August 20-26.

Join one of Australia's leading fashion designers Leona Edmiston, at The Myer Fashion Luncheon. This is set to be one of the most anticipated events held at this year's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival - Brisbane on Wednesday 24 August.

Located at the renowned Victoria Park Golf Club, Brisbane’s most fashionable are invited to breathtaking views of Brisbane's skyline, first class catering with a gourmet 2 course luncheon and contemporary elegance while viewing Myer's stunning spring summer 11/12 collection.

See Australian designer Leona Edmiston showcase her new season collection alongside other Myer labels including sass & bide, Nicola Finetti, Jayson Brunsdon, Aurelio Costarella and many more.  

India:Blue Mantra by Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur

 

Raghavendra Rathore launches, Blue Mantra – an ultimate assortment of ethnic products for festive & wedding occasions for the discerning women of today.

The brand carries forward the legacy of enhancing the female form in luxury and charm through heritage and heirloom inspired concepts. The exquisite embroideries and customized print saris & lehengas bring forth a unique freshness in design.

There is a range of sandals, jewelry, clutch bags and hair accessories that complement this line of clothing to complete the look of a woman who exemplifies glory and timeless elegance.

The Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur, brand is driven by a holistic vision of luxury, inspired by the "old world charm" of Rajasthan in India, with a clean and a modern sensibility of New York. Trained in Manhattan, at the Parsons School of Design, Rathore worked at DKNY and Oscar de la Renta before launching his own label in 1994 under the Rathore Jodhpur brand.  

Australia:Sanpellegrino - the haute-couture of mineral water

 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival – Brisbane, hosted by South Bank, is back for 2011 and promises a stellar lineup of designers and a range of fashionable events to satisfy even the most sartorially starved crowds. It will run from August 20-26.

From the Renaissance frescos adorning the ceilings of historic chapels and the sculptures of the Galleria dell'Accademia, to the leather smiths of Florence and the haute-couture gowns that render our knees incapable of holding us upright, Italy is renowned for its rich culture, unparalleled sense of style and impeccable craftsmanship. When it comes to things of beauty, Italy’s got it nailed.

This year, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival - Brisbane is proud to announce their affiliation with another Italian icon – S.Pellegrino mineral water.

The quality of S.Pellegrino is legendary. The “Godfather” of design himself, Leonardo da Vinci even visited the town in 1509 to personally sample the “miraculous” water that flows from a thermal spring at the foot of a mountain wall in the Italian Alps. S.Pellegrino is a refreshing, naturally carbonated water with a light, crisp finish, captured perfectly in the brand’s iconic, green glass bottle – a modern symbol of style, sophistication and the conviviality of the Italian lifestyle.

This Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival - Brisbane, savour the refreshment of the one and only S.Pellegrino mineral water and the delicious selection of sparkling fruit beverages - the haute-couture of mineral water.

 

India:Katrina Kaif to turn designer in upcoming movie

 

Bollywood heroine Katrina Kaif will be designing her own clothes for her upcoming movie to be directed by Yash Chopra.

The 27-year-old star got immense response to her bohemian rock-star look in a recent movie and approached directors Yash and Aditya Chopra to design her own clothes.

Kaif will give her personal touch to her outfits and will be pairing with Shahrukh Khan in the ‘yet to be named’ movie.
 

Denmark:Increase in international high end buyers at CPH Vision & Terminal-2

 

Copenhagen Fashion Fairs presented the CPH Vision & Terminal-2 trade fairs the 4th-6th of August 2011. CPH Vision was visited by 10.251 fashion professionals and Terminal-2 had 11.258 visitors, mainly from key markets such as Sweden, Norway, England, Germany and Holland. There was a particularly interesting increase in buyers from markets like the U.S. and Japan.

Peter Fenger Selchau, CEO, CPH Vision & Terminal-2 says; "The buyers show great optimism this season. Exhibitors indicate an increase in new customers and signed orders. Lower traffic at the fairs is reported, but the buyers represent in greater deal high-end stores and chains - and most importantly; they are ready to buy new brands and sign the orders onsite at the fairs. "

CPH Vision and Terminal-2 exhibitors indicate an increase in new customers of more international character. These include stores like Asos.com, Amazon.de, Nelly.com, Beams in Japan and high-end shops like Thomas I-point in Hamburg. Thursday the 3rd and Friday the 4th of August were key days with high attendance from international buyers and international press - New business, great trade and new talent were on the agenda for the visitors.

Natasha Skou, PR & Marketing Manager for CPH Vision & Terminal-2 says; "The international press has set their radar on Copenhagen these days. Copenhagen is looked on as a representative of Scandinavia and the city is praised for offering extremely high quality and to accommodate a valuable core of new talent in fashion, architecture, design, shops, restaurants and hotels. Therefore it is extremely important this time around that everyone playing a part in Copenhagen Fashion Week collaborate closely. This applies to both trade fairs, as well as hotels and not least Copenhagen city council."

CPH Vision presented a strong, design-driven portfolio of 153 exhibitors and 230 brands with focus on Nordic design, feminine fashion, well-established international brands as well as up-and-coming designers. A focus, that buyers and press noted by appointing CPH Vision fair, where new, interesting designers and brands is discovered.

At Terminal-2 133 exhibitors presented nothing less than 247 brands - an exclusive blend of Scandinavian and international brands which reflect the best urban-wear and denim brands in today's market.

Peter Fenger Selchau, CEO, CPH Vision & Terminal-2 concludes; "Looking forward, we will increase focus on retail and create new initiatives directed at them. We received very constructive feedback from exhibitors and buyers, in which we will analyze and develop new exciting initiatives. In this context, we will continue to have a constructive dialogue with organizations and retail chains in Europe to attract more buyers. "

CPH Vision and Terminal-2 AW12 will take place February 2nd-4th 2012.  

South Africa:WOZA - Wear Only ZA supports South African fashion

 

The 2011 Cape Town Fashion Week marked the launch of WOZA - Wear Only ZA, a campaign to raise awareness and increase the profile and desire for South African designed and produced fashion.

Initiated and managed by the Cape Town Fashion Council (CTFC) and funded by the Department of Economic Development & Tourism in the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, WOZA aims to stimulate a greater demand for buying local clothing.

“Local design and manufacture needs a showcase,” said Bryan Ramkilawan, CEO of the CTFC, “so that everyone can see how much talent and excitement there is out there in the making of home-grown design that every proud South African should want to wear.”

Consumers can show their support for South African fashion by joining the movement at wearonlyza.com, an online community that will showcase the best of locally produced and designed brands. Designers will be able to join and have their brands endorsed by WOZA, increasing their exposure.

“Partner brands will also be adding their weight, expertise and involvement to the WOZA marketing campaign and showing their commitment to supporting local industry. The initial soft launch phase of the campaign involves creating an online community for South African fashion. From there WOZA will expand with a significant sponsor into SPAZA pop- shops and major retail partnerships,” said Ramkilawan.

MEC Alan Winde said, “80,000 jobs have been lost in SA‘s Clothing and Textile industry since the elimination of the quota system in 2004 and local industry is struggling to compete with sweat shop economies. To sustain and further create jobs for the sector, industry and government have identified local fashion design and branding as a key catalyst for the entire C&T value chain.”

The Cape Town Fashion Council is the first established fashion industry association of its kind in South Africa (SA). The CTFC is a major driving force within the industry to promote local fashion brands nationally and internationally. The board of the council includes representatives from throughout the value chain including Woolworths, Foschini, Elle Magazine, Monviso Knitwear, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, SACTWU, government and several fashion designers.  

UK:Pure London’s Premium - fashion ante for SS12

 

Pure London’s dedicated designer arena – Premium – ups the fashion ante for SS12 with a host of established design heavyweights. Located in Olympia’s spacious Pillar Hall, expect to find collections from New Zealand label BLAK, Swedish brand Jofama, TBA, Tusnelda Bloch, Baby Ceylon and D.Efect to name but a few.

A-list favourite, GOAT, makes its debut in Premium this season, and should be at the top of the designer buying list. Featuring the label’s signature understated pieces, from ultra-chic ‘60s-inspired shifts to luxe separates in an array of sherbet shades, it’s no wonder Victoria Beckham already champions its designs.

Also new to Pure Premium is Latvian label Katyakatya Shehurina. The vintage-inspired collection of delicate silk and intricate lace pieces hark back to the decadent ‘20s, with noted Charleston and tango references.

East meets West in Wondaland’s Saigon-inspired line, with a mêlée of sumptuous silk and chambray separates, alongside a tougher selection of collarless jackets and tux trousers.

Anonymous by Ross + Bute continues to fly the flag for home grown designer talent, presenting its affordable but luxe line of chic cotton tops and cardigans with rich guipure lace inserts alongside pastel posy print knits, jackets and skirts. And London-based designer Ann Louise Roswald, the purveyor of stunning prints, returns to Pure London with graphic and abstract floral designs for day and opulent embellishment for evening.

On the Upper Level, the Premium Accessories section completes the designer offering with exclusive edits from jewellery designer Sam Ubhi, The Branch and Echo, as well as luxurious leather bags and luggage from Ally Capellino, Alison Van Der Lande and Jocasi London.  

France:Jean-Paul Gaultier to launch lingerie line for La Perla

 

Popular French haute couture fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier will soon launch a “provocative” lingerie line for Italian brand La Perla.

The designer is famous for developing pop queen Madonna's conical bra for her 1990 Blonde Ambition Tour. He had also created the pop star’s wardrobe for her 2006 Confessions Tour.

Gaultier, who made his initial designs for his stuffed toys, had recently unveiled a display of his work at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts in Canada.

The new lingerie collection will be available at Jean-Paul Gaultier and La Perla boutiques all over the world.