UAE:‘J dot’ boutique opens its third outlet in UAE

 

Dubai-based diversified business group, Alif Investments, an absolute franchise partner of well known designer wear brand ‘Junaid Jamshed’, has launched its first ‘J dot’ boutique at Abu Dhabi’s upmarket Al Wahada Mall, with which the total number of its boutiques reached to three in a short period of just one year.

The Group inaugurated its first boutique in Dubai’s Meena Bazaar last year and second in busy area of Zamzam market in Sharjah in April this year.

Al Wahda Mall based J dot boutique is the first store launched by the firm outside the bazaars and the firm looks forward to continue the trend by launching two more outlets in Al Ain and New Dubai by end of the current year.

Junaid Jamshed displays a complete range of ready-to-wear, and hand woven apparels alongside an elite range of unstitched textiles.

The men’s, women’s and kids wear collections are tailor-made and feature the unique and beautiful eastern designs.

J dot has met great success and has consistent consumer following in Sharjah and Dubai and the launch of the new outlet in Abu Dhabi results from unrelenting demand from the side of the followers of the brand.

 

USA:Hiromi Asai brings Kimono Fashion in New York

 

Mode & Classic New York presents the spring / summer 2012 collection featuring Japanese traditional fabrics and Kimonos on the Opening Night of Brooklyn Fashion Weekend.

Kimono is a Japanese sophisticated garment with a long history, over one thousand years. Kimono is an ultimate eco-friendly garment, produced by handwork and passed on from one generation to another generation.

MODE & CLASSIC sublimes the Japanese exquisite style to the global fashion arena and promotes new elegant fashion styles, Fusion.

Mode & Classic LLC was founded in 2010 by Hiromi Asai, a kimono fashion stylist / designer. Mode & Classic is now recognized as a unique kimono styling / design company in the world.

Her activity attracts attention in the United States, as the interview appeared in The New York Times (“Wrestling the silk” in April, 2009) and the opinion about kimono fashion was published in The International Herald Tribune / New York Times (“Liberate the kimono” in March, 2011).

After she came to New York City in 2008, she started her styling business as Kimono Hiro in NY. She created fashion & art pieces featuring kimono for advertisements (Verizon Wireless in 2009), fashion magazines, films, and TV programs. She also gave kimono demonstrations across the States. She collaborated with a designer, Susan Cianciolo to produce fantastic styles at New York Fashion Week 2011 Autumn/Winter collection.

The collaboration in the art field was accomplished with a visual artist and photographer, Laurie Simmons, to create a film “Geisha Song” (February, 2011) and a series of photos “The Love Doll” (August, 2011). In addition, she successfully produced kimono fashion shows at Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and The Museum of World Culture in Gothenburg, Sweden in April, 2011.

She has believed that kimono would be recognized as a universal formal wear that is beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries. Now Mode & Classic and she contribute themselves to the development of such movement.  

Russia:Tom Ford unveils his first women's apparel outlet in Russia

 

Providing a confidence thrust to Russia’s revitalizing luxury items market, Texas-based fashion designer Tom Ford has launched his first women’s apparel outlet in Moscow.

The 50 year old designer, who earlier headed Gucci’s creative team, said that he was not concerned about the probabilities of Russia falling prey to another economic slowdown. He said that Russia was previously the world’s fourth largest consumer of luxury items.

The new outlet has been launched in affluent central Moscow gallery, which also houses boutiques of brands like Prada and Tiffany.

Ford, who launched his first menswear outlet in Moscow in 2009, mentioned that he started his business during the times of economic slowdown, but his store was not hit by the recession, and its sales figures have gone up along with rising brand-consciousness.

The designer said customers may avoid buying a new house or a car but still spend on buying a shirt or new shoes, during times of recession.

Post-2009 economic crisis that wiped out Russia’s luxury goods market and compelled outlets like Alexander McQueen to close down, leading designers are now gradually moving back to Russia.
 

India:130 designers will participate at WIFW SS 12

 

Fashion Design Council of India, announced the power-packed list of participating designers for the biggest fashion event of the country - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2012. FDCI has assembled some of the esteemed names in the fashion industry to set trends for spring-summer 2012. These renowned designers are all set to weave a stunning presentation of cutting-edge fashion at the grand venue of India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), Hall No. 18, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from 8-12 October, 2011.

LIST OF PARTICIPATING DESIGNERS (WIFW (S/S'12)

RUNWAY DESIGNERS
Label - Ritu Kumar, Rina Dhaka, Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna, Wendell Rodricks, AM:PM by Ankur & Priyanka Modi, Anita Dongre, Gauri & Nanika, Geisha Designs Paras & Shalini, James Ferreira, Kavita Bhartia, Malini Ramani, Manish Malhotra, Namrata Joshipura, Nandita Basu, Rajesh Pratap Singh, Sanchita, Savio Jon, Shantanu Goenka ,Saaj by Ankita, Shipra Gupta, Surbhi Chawla, Amit GT, Anand Bhushan, Anupamaa by Anupama Dayal, Charu Parashar, Dev r Nil, Manish Gupta,Manoj Dubey, Mynah's Reynu Taandon, Nachiket Barve, Nida Mahmood, Nikasha Tawadey, Pankaj & Nidhi, Pero by Aneeth Arora, Petanu by Pashma, Preeti S. Kapoor, Raakesh Agarvwal, Rahul Mishra, Raj Shroff, Rajdeep Ranawat, Rehane, Samant Chauhan, Tanvi Kedia, Urvashi Kaur, Vineet Bahl, Virtues by Viral, Ashish & Vikrant, Alpana & Neeraj, Atsu by Atsu Sekhose, Divyam Mehta, Ela by Joyjit Talukdar, Hemant & Nandita, Joy Mitra, Morphe by Amit Aggarwal, ‘my village' by Rimzim Dadu, Not So Serious by Pallavi Mohan, Rahul Reddy Soltee by SulakshanaBhanuni by Jyoti Sharma, Chandrani Siingh Fllora, Dolly J, Niket & Jainee, Rahul Singh, Taurus by Dhruv & Pallavi

ACCESSORY DESIGNERS
5 Elements by Radhika Gupta, Amrapali by Rajiv Arora & Rajesh Ajmera, Art Apparel & Accessories by Shelina & Camelia, Felix Bendish, Fluke Design Company by Rashmi Dogra, Nitin Vijay, Janavi, Malaga by Malini Agarwalla, Meera Mahadevia, Pinky Saraf, Poem by Sonia Sekhri, Shalini Arts, SRZ by Shahrukh Zaidi

Commenting on the participating designers, Mr. Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI said, “Continuing our legacy of bringing the best names of the fashion fraternity to WIFW, an exceptional business of fashion event, we are once again proud to introduce a host of talented Indian designers. We look forward to five days of splendid fashion put together by an array of brilliant designers and wish them the best."

Atul Chand, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC’s Lifestyle Retailing Business Division, said, “Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week has been scaling new heights, edition after edition and I applaud all the designers in making this the country’s most prestigious event. There is great synergy in the association of our premium lifestyle brand Wills Lifestyle with the event and we look forward to further strengthening the strong and deep–rooted partnership that we have established with the fashion fraternity.”
 

Italy:Gucci opens GUCCI MUSEO to celebrate 90th birthday

 

A year of events in celebration of Gucci’s 90th anniversary will culminate on September 28th, 2011, with the official public opening of the GUCCI MUSEO inside the historic Palazzo della Mercanzia located in Florence’s Piazza Signoria. It was in 1921 that Guccio Gucci opened his company and first store in Florence with a dream and a vision that still lives on today through a heritage of icons and values that continue to inspire the House.

Conceived by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, the GUCCI MUSEO is a living space encapsulating the House's “Forever Now” philosophy. A permanent exhibition from its rich and culturally significant archive, which has been preserved and amplified throughout the years, will be juxtaposed with contemporary art installations supported by the Pinault Foundation. An icon store, bookshop, caffè and gift shop complement the exhibition spaces to create a destination location for visitors.

Commenting on the founding of the GUCCI MUSEO Frida Giannini said, “Ever since my first visit to the archive when I joined Gucci nine years ago, I have felt a deep commitment to the House’s legacy and have wanted to expose the rich archive in celebration of the remarkable narrative behind so many of our iconic products and motifs. As Gucci turns 90 this year, I felt it was the right moment to inaugurate our own space, where hidden treasures would be open to public viewing for the first time. In this way the GUCCI MUSEO will both conserve and celebrate the most significant moments in the history of the House, providing an official account of its origins, evolution and cultural influence.”

The ancient Palazzo della Mercanzia, dating back to 1337 and still a symbol of the Florentine arts and craftsmanship, spans from Piazza della Signoria to Piazza San Firenze and originates from two splendid buildings, respective offices of the Ufficio della Condotta degli Stipendiati and the Università dei Mercanti and Ufficio della Mercanzia, in the time of the Medici. The internal restoration that has taken place respects the building’s history through the use of materials which integrate naturally with the original architecture.

Patrizio di Marco, Gucci’s President and CEO, said, “We have decided to give life to something very dynamic and engaging. Visitors to the GUCCI MUSEO will not have the impression of a nostalgic celebration, instead our aim has been to create a destination experience where people can appreciate and enjoy our history, but at the same time understand how innovative and alive Gucci is today.” Di Marco continued, “The GUCCI MUSEO is also a tribute to our hometown.

Although Gucci is a truly international company, we absolutely remain a Florentine success story. We owe much of our success to the traditions, skills and innovation of our local artisans, who proudly represent the values of the Made in Italy label. We are extremely grateful to the City of Florence for its enthusiastic support in permitting us to locate the museum within such an historically important building in the heart of Florence.”

Click here to read more details  

Australia:Shanae Millar wins PFF’s International Model Search

 

It is six days into Perth Fashion Festival’s (PFF) seven day celebration and the abundant talent of Western Australia’s creative industry has never been more apparent.

Yesterday saw Shanae Millar named the winner of PFF’s International Model Search and a new generation of design talent impressed crowds at this year’s Student Runway show. National designer Magdalena Velevska wowed guests with her bright colours and precise pleating.

Spotted front row at Fashion Paramount was PFF Face and international supermodel Nicole Trunfio, actor Grant Bowler, Troy and Sophia Barbagallo along with Miss Universe WA finalists Samara Tugwell, Alycia Altieri, Jordi Levin, Leah Tapper, Megan Meares, Rebecca O’Donovan, Juliana Nuic.

PFF schedule includes the third and final Designer Capsule show and S2’s Spring Summer 11/12 collection at Fashion Paramount.

Festival highlights include:
- Hyogo Banshu Project, 5.30pm, State Theatre [Invitation only]
The Hyogo Banshu Project will feature the works of six fashion and design students who travelled to Japan in March 2011 to work with Banshu textile manufacturers.

They will reveal their Hyogo-inspired designs on the catwalk alongside Kristy Lawrence from Flannel.

- Design Capsule #3 - One Fell Swoop, Zhivago, Ange Lang & Zsadar, 6.30pm, Fashion Paramount
The final of the Designer Capsule series will again showcase the immense talent of Western Australian designers. Locals One Fell Swoop, Zhivago, Ange Lang and Zsadar will present the highlights of their Spring Summer 2011/12 collections at Fashion Paramount.

This hotly anticipated event will see Zhivago launch their debut collection while Zsadar serves up the only menswear show at Fashion Paramount.

- S2, 9pm, Fashion Paramount
S2 has a distinctive, contemporary minimalist style with a clean, strong aesthetic.

Launched in 2004, S2 has attracted a loyal following from women with a strong sense of style and individualism – all who are likely to be front row at Fashion Paramount’s final show.
 

UK:Menswear brand Tommy Nutter up for sale

 

Crombie, the prestigious British company, has put the menswear brand Tommy Nutter for sale. The company, owned by businessman Alan Lewis, is willing to either sell the Tommy Nutter brand or enter into a partnership for its further growth.

The sale of the brand, for which no price has been quoted, includes a small quantity of original pieces that have designs drawn by Tommy Nutter, prior to his death in 1992.

While many textile and fashion companies have been apprised about the sale, companies from India and China have shown the most interest in acquiring the brand.

Crombie said it wants to focus on the expansion of its own high-end suits and coats line.

Tommy Nutter’s first shop was opened in 1969 and it proved very popular with artists and rock stars, including the Beatles in the 1970s.

Tommy Nutter’s work is currently being displayed at an exhibition at the London’s Fashion and Textile Museum.
 

India:FDCI kick starts search for fresh faces in fashion

 

New Delhi, the Indian capital of style, hosted auditions to bring to the limelight some fresh faces for Asia's biggest business of fashion event, the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) Spring/Summer 2012. Facilitated by Fashion Design Council of India in association with this season’s venue partner, The Lalit Hotel, these auditions have been successful in introducing some gorgeous models to the fashion industry. Aspiring female models from all over the country congregated under one roof to compete for a chance to be a part of the biggest fashion event in the country!

The jury for model auditions for this season of WIFW S/S 2012 boasts of some of the most respected names in the industry, including designer Rahul Khanna, Poonam Bhagat, Abhishek Gupta, Vidyun Singh, Vinod Nair, Harmeet Bajaj and Simar Duggal.

The audition consisted of various intensive selection rounds that tested the participants on their poise, confidence, attitude, elegance and personality among other deciding parameters. The aspiring models went through this challenging process and only the best will emerge to showcase their talent on this grand fashion platform.

For over a decade – Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) – India’s apex fashion body has been instrumental in promoting the fashion industry in India by encouraging some of the country’s finest talent. From models, choreographers, makeup artists, fashion media, forecasters, trend analysts, bloggers and social media writers, buyers and retailers, and varied fashion professionals, the event acts as a catalyst and a networking platform for the ‘business of fashion’. Model auditions are an essential part of this event and they help in introducing new talent to fashion industry and create opportunities for aspiring models.

Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI said, “FDCI is a keen promoter of fresh talent and like always, WIFW SS’12 promises to bring some new faces to scorch the ramp. We are happy to provide a stepping stone to the emerging female models who want to make a mark in the industry. Models are selected keeping in mind the high standards of quality that WIFW exemplifies each season. With WIFW SS’12, FDCI continues to re-define the future of fashion in India! ”

Atul Chand, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC’s Lifestyle Retailing, said, “Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week is a significant platform to recognise and promote emerging talent. WIFW continues to raise the bar with each edition and we look forward to the best modeling talent to walk for India’s grandest fashion event!”

The Success Mantra! - What is our Jury looking for?

Vidyun Singh- “ I looked out for a natural rhythm in the girls! Grace and bone structure matters as well as a versatile face.”

Simar Duggal – “Height, tone, structure are important. We wish to select girls who can showcase a variety of outfits on the ramp.”

Harmeet Bajaj – “I prefer girls who can displaythe garments in an enticing way. Their poise, walk and body are priority. A pretty face adds value.”
 

USA:40’s & 50’s vintage designs inspire Haute Hijab this fall

 

The Muslim fashion house Haute Hijab launched their Fall 2011 Collection Tuesday, September 20, 2011. The line can be viewed online on their e-commerce website. The line focuses on modest clothing catered to Muslim women but is intended for all who admire impeccable design and modest options.

The line includes skirts, dresses and tops in fiercely unique and sophisticated designs. The clothing is inspired by vintage designs and womanly silhouettes of the 40’s and 50’s including a full skirt shirtdress, high-waisted volume skirt and crisp white blouses with a touch of frill.

Chief Designer Melanie Elturk says, “I am partial to sophisticated designs with an edge for confident women who love taking fashion risks. I scrutinized every stitch and seam and pushed each design to the limit using only the best fabrics.” The entire line was designed and manufactured in Chicago, Illinois.

“We hope to affect mainstream fashion with our unique designs and sense of modesty,” says CMO Ahmed Zedan.

Originally established in early 2010, Haute Hijab launched their collection of vintage scarves in December, 2010. The vintage scarves were so popular they sold out in a matter of minutes and each collection was virtually sold out within a day.

The idea has become so popular that other copycat websites have popped up selling vintage scarves. Earlier this year, they expanded their collection to new hijabs (Islamic headscarf) and this summer’s must-have, the t-shirt dress available in four colors. Haute Hijab currently has over 7,000 fans on their Facebook page.  

USA:Search is on to find teens with a Passion for Fashion

 

The Art Institutes announces its nationwide search to find the next winners of the Passion for Fashion Competition 2012. Teens that are looking for outlets to express their love of style are encouraged to enter and unleash their creativity for a chance to earn a tuition scholarship.

Two national competition grand prize winners each will earn a half- tuition scholarship to their respective Art Institutes school, receive a VIP trip to New York City, participate in a “meet and greet” at Seventeen magazine’s New York City offices, have lunch with a Seventeen Style Pro, receive a $500 shopping spree at DKNY with the Style Pro, and a $500 gift card to shop anywhere in the Big Apple.

The Art Institutes Passion for Fashion Competition is open to legal residents of the fifty United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are full-or part-time high school seniors scheduled to graduate in 2012 with a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average. Entries must be submitted along with a completed Entry & Release form to The Art Institutes school the student wishes to represent in the competition. Entries must be postmarked by January 20, 2012.

“It is our distinct honor to present the seventh annual Passion for Fashion Competition. We believe the competition provides a forum through which aspiring fashion professionals can express their full range of talent. This is their chance to earn a scholarship towards a hands-on fashion education,” said John Pufahl, Vice President, Academic Affairs for The Art Institutes.

The competition consists of two separate categories: 1) Fashion Design and 2) Fashion Marketing & Merchandising and Retail Management. Local competitions will take place at each participating Art Institutes school throughout U.S. and Canada. Each local Fashion Design competition winner and each local Fashion Marketing & Merchandising and Retail Management competition winner will earn a $3,000 tuition scholarship to The Art Institutes school they represent in the competition. Local first place winners in each category will move on to the national competition.

The Art Institutes is a system of more than 45 education institutions located throughout North America. The Art Institutes system is America’s Leader in Creative Education providing an important source for design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals. Several institutions included in The Art Institutes system are campuses of South University. See aiprograms.info for program duration, tuition, fees, and other costs, median debt, federal salary data, alumni success, and other important information.  

USA:Pantone unveils S/S 2013 edition of colour planner

 

Pantone LLC, an X-Rite company and the global authority on color and provider of professional color standards for the design industries, announced the Spring/Summer 2013 edition of PANTONE VIEW Colour Planner. This multi-discipline color forecast, titled unity & CO, highlights the key color palettes for women’s wear, menswear, active wear, cosmetics, lifestyle and industrial, and graphic design.

PANTONE VIEW Colour Planner Spring/Summer 2013 pushes individuals to unite with one another again by rediscovering the power in numbers and embracing a new culture of unity. The power of one can be great, but the power of many is even more formidable as heritage and traditions are rediscovered in a modern, digitized manner.

The same applies to color, as it too evolves from creating an awestruck response by its power and brightness alone. As the use of color increases, it becomes more connected to material, shape and form in an integral way.

“Recent color block stories on the catwalk have paved the way for a new sense of color confidence among consumers. For some time, color alone has been a significant factor in purchasing decisions. Today, equally important is the context of those color statements – the finish, fabric and form in which it is used,” said Laurie Pressman, vice president of fashion, home and interiors at Pantone.

PANTONE VIEW Colour Planner Spring/Summer 2013 contains the following eight palettes:

CO-nversation
Slowly emerging from white, mauve and fuchsia develop into delicate hues, while a warm sand tone forms a stable base for the more ethereal pink. The resulting range is subtle and delicate, infusing a sense of calm and serenity.

CO-llaboration
A new approach to neutrals, dusted pink, greeny-blue and burnt yellows create a family of easy base colors for outerwear and interiors alike.

CO-nnected
Connected is a color range for celebrating enthusiasm and the vitality of life, as yellow emerges from pure white, diluted and matte at first then gaining energy to end up reflecting the sun.

CO-mmunity
A new level of natural colors which are easy to mix and use, replacing black for a far more exotic approach – dry browns, watered browns, wood browns and earth browns.

CO-ntain
Based on naturals; simple, refined whites like eggshell; flesh tones, which reinforce the belief that neutrals are becoming more colored; warm and static black with deep navy and duck-egg blue.

CO-mpanion
A monumental simplicity of colors with their feet in nature suggests combinations of confident opposites or intimate tonalities. It is a core baseline palette of blues that frames and sets all the key accents.

CO-llective
Brights move from the primary spectrum of past seasons into a new fluorescent range. These super strong colors are paired with a family of soft sisters: five sweetened pastel tones.
 

France:Be ready for Paris Fashion Week

 

As the summer draws to a close, the fashion industry is preparing for numerous fashion weeks taking place around the globe. From September 27 through to October 5th 2011, all eyes will be on France for the 2011 Paris Fashion Week.

With a variety of fashion shows and events taking place during the Paris Fashion Week, luxury concierge provider One Concierge is determined to support their clients and guests attending the major event in Paris.

At the heart of the fashion industry in France, One Concierge will provide custom concierge solutions for the 2011 Paris Fashion Week.

The city of Paris, intends on welcoming a worldwide audience of designers, socialites, and individuals with a true love for the fashion industry. This year’s fashion show will feature the latest Spring 2012 collections from designers such as Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Louis Vuitton and many more.

A key market for luxury service providers, One Concierge has a prominent presence in Paris and has worked with a number of Paris based partners to ensure complete coverage, custom services and concierge support for the 2011 Paris Fashion Week.

“The city of Paris has always been at the heart of the Fashion Industry,” stated Dustyn Shroff, COO, One Concierge, “Whether you are a designer, a model, or simply someone with a passion for fashion, Paris Fashion week is for you.” For this year's Paris Fashion Week, One Concierge aims to work with each client individually by tailoring and amending both new and existing packages to meet each and every need for the fashion event.

One Concierge has previously offered it's global client base access to some of the most elite events around the world, their presence at the 2011 Paris Fashion Week is not surprising. For luxury brands such as One Concierge, the Paris Fashion Week has much to offer and this year is no exception.  

USA:The Emerge! Runway Showcase - great success

 

With over 400 people in attendance, the Emerge! Runway Showcase brought together the best of what fashion has to offer. From talented fresh fashions to industry legends, Emerge! is officially one of the premier fashion showcases for new designers during New York Fashion Week.

Hosted at the magnificent historical landmark- Broad Street Ballroom- located in the financial district, Emerge! transformed the Tuesday night into a night of unforgettable moments. The night opened with designer Tracy Reese presenting the 2011 Fashion Innovator Award to Constance C.R. White, Editor-in-Chief of ESSENCEgazine. The audience applauded as White took the runway and expressed her gratitude to the fashion industry and confidence in the Emerge! production.

The show started flawlessly with the designers and the audience brought high spirited energy as they clapped at the pristine pieces of each designer. The Collections - September 2011 Runway Show: Adriana Osorio Lugo of Adriana Osorio Lugo Designs, Kirk Johnson of b.-Vain Couture; Berny Martin of Catou; and Borris Powell of Borris Powell Designs, Oscars® Designer Challenge 2011 Winner.

The audience included fashion icon Freddie Leiba, Tamron Hall of MSNBC, Rebecca Crews, ESSENCE executive editorial staff, fashion executives, buyers, bloggers, socialites, family and friends.

Saideh Browne of Impact Agency NYC, served as Master of Ceremony. Emerge! is created and produced by D. Williams PR Group and styled by Tai Chunn of MVC Productions.

Emerge! was sponsored by Medea Vodka, MVC productions, Time Frozen Photography, Thomas Blue Photography, Izze, Sign Expo, Artikal Millinery and Tina Jwelery. Hair is styled by the Bennett Career Institute. Make-up is provided by DEX New York.

Flowers by Adam Leffel Production and designed by Polpat Klongkhayan. Additional Emerge! team members: Senja Media and Richard Pelzer of MEGA Management, Inc.

Swag Bags, honoree gift basket and presentations included products from: ESSENCE, Soul Purpose, Travalo, Apara Footcare, J. F. Lazartigue, Palmers, Barbara’s Way, Miss Jessie’s, Digicel, 24 Seven Inc., Bo Concepts, Avon, CAG Designs, Teas by Tiffany, Ear Peace, Lash Card and GNC. Products were procured by Signature Style Promotions. Printing services were sponsored by Elique Group for PrintinZone Front of house staff was provided by The Bizness Girl.

Emerge! is a branded production for new designers to showcase their lines. Emerge! is produced each fashion season during New York Fashion Week.  

UK:‘Britain Creates’ artistic project for Olympic Games

 

To celebrate the Olympic and Paralympic Games, our most prestigious and renowned fashion designers will collaborate with leading visual artists on specially commissioned one-off works of art. These commissions, focusing on an Olympic and Paralympic value, will be showcased to a broad UK and international audience through a major engagement programme that will support the commissions - a series of activities both actual and virtual that will reach a broad & diverse audience.

To date 14 artists and designers have signed up to the project including, Christopher Bailey for Burberry, Charming Baker, Sarah Burton, Hussein Chalayan, Giles Deacon, Jeremy Deller, Jess Flood-Paddock, Stephen Jones, Christopher Kane, Marc Quinn, Paul Smith and Vivienne Westwood. Further artists and designers and their pairings will be announced in autumn 2011.

Created and managed by the British Fashion Council / Bazaar Fashion Arts Foundation in collaboration with the Mayor of London, this exciting new project will be a highlight of the London 2012 Festival, a UK festival which runs from 21st June to 9 September next year and is the culmination of the four year Cultural Olympiad.

The Britain Creates 2012 project will be the start of an ongoing artistic project and bursary to support and encourage further collaboration between fashion and other art forms. The money for the bursary will be raised through the auction of the pieces and through the proceeds of a Gala event.

The 2012 Commissions will bring together pairs of leading artists and fashion designers who will work together across different artistic mediums. Leading creative figures will bring the Olympic and Paralympic values to life through a project that will salute the longstanding connection between fashion and the visual arts and show that when great minds collide, amazing things happen.

The pieces will be unveiled in June 2012 at a Gala event in central London. They will then be exhibited to the public throughout the London 2012 Festival period. Further details will be announced by LOCOG in autumn 2011.

The Britain Creates 2012 Engagement Programme will encompass an exhibition of the work (both public and through a high profile Gala for an influential global audience) and a series of stimulating interactions from seminars to film.

Britain Creates 2012 has received a grant from the Arts Council and has raised funds from private donors. Monies raised from the Gala and from the auction of the pieces will create future fashion and visual arts bursaries. A bursary committee will allocate funding.

Harold Tillman CBE, BFC Chair said, “Those viewing the Britain Creates 2012 Commissions either in person or virtually and those reading about it subsequently will be in no doubt that Britain is the leading force in the global creative sphere.”

Moira Sinclair, London Executive Director, Arts Council England said: "We are delighted to be partners in Britain Creates 2012. This is one of a number of opportunities to present our creative talents on a global platform as we welcome the world to London next year. The spirit of collaboration that Britain Creates 2012 embodies is at the heart of a continued drive to explore new possibilities and push boundaries, which has kept this country at the forefront of artistic innovation.”
 

France:Five tradeshows found real success

 

September 2011 trade shows report for WHO’S NEXT – PREMIERE CLASSE – PRÊT-A-PORTER PARIS - MESS AROUND – SIXTY DAYS announced.

WHO’S NEXT & PREMIERE CLASSE
Both trade shows have ended on a very positive note with a 6% rise in the number of visitors compared with September 2010, i.e. 48,778 buyers. If French customers, especially from the Paris region, have leaped by 11%, the number of foreign buyers (32%) has dropped by 2%, with especially –28.2% for the United States and –33.5% for Germany. Italy, Spain and Belgium are the three most represented countries. Atmosphere wise, all the fashion professionals showed a lot of enthusiasm purchasing their last SS 2012 items. They all praise the clear offer and the quality of the selection.

PRÊT-A-PORTER PARIS
PRET A PORTER PARIS closed its latest edition on a good business atmosphere, after four days of SS 2012 collection presentation. Exhibitors and buyers noted and appreciated the nicely spaced-out and clear space design as well as the very sharp brand selection. With 58 % buyers from France and 42 % from the rest of the world, PRET A PORTER PARIS registers a slight raise in the number of visitors. The 5 most represented foreign countries: Italy, Spain, U.K., Japan and Germany. Also worth noticing: countries from the Middle East and Northern Europe.

MESS AROUND
Although the number of visitors showed a slight drop (4%), the September 2011 MESS AROUND was a success business-wise. “Our sales on MESS AROUND are in constant progress”, says OXYGENE’s Julien HUMEAU, “For a first time, the result is very promising” confirms SNIPE’s Thomas KRESS. With more than 70 new brands, the consistency and relevance of the MESS AROUND areas have drawn the attention of buyers such as Jean Pierre TURRI from Paray-le-Monial: “The MESS AROUND areas are a lot clearer”. The fashion lounge, LABOCUIR, Playground, Step by Step and Coming Soon were a real a success. The session was also punctuated with fun parties in a good mood.

SIXTY DAYS
Pre-registration figures spoke for a strong attendance, and indeed more than 3,000 visitors entered hall 3.1. Most exhibitors made the most of this first edition of SIXTY DAYS, the new meeting point initiated by EUROVET and WSN DEVELOPPEMENT. Department stores, boutiques and independent groups showed they still had a budget to place restocking orders for the current season. With an educational approach, the trade show gathering 78 “fast fashion” collections took advantage of a very clear and spaced out selection, featured a trend forum presenting the season’s hit products as well as debates organized by the National Federation for Clothing and Boutique de Mode. The organizing team will draw a lesson from this first session so the event matches the changes announced for 2012.

The five trade shows were featuring their last September session before they are all brought together next January, with a unique and common event: WHO’S NEXT Prêt-à-Porter Paris. The very clearly conveyed objective of this first session is to create an international center of attraction to reach 50% international buyers within two years, with the rescheduling of the September trade shows in June starting in 2012. All the professionals seem to look forward to this change!

Upcoming events:
1st session:
Fall-Winter collections: 21-24 January 2012
Spring-Summer collections: 30 June-3 July 2012

2nd session:
Fall-Winter collections: 2-5 March 2012
Spring-Summer collections: 28 September–1st October 2012

For "The new face of Paris fashion shows in 2012", Click here .
 

USA:MODA NYC to start on Sept 18

 

Amongst the noise and drama of the September NY – Spring/Summer market, there exists a refined, elegant, progressive and exhilarating shopping experience and it’s at Moda Manhattan.

Featuring over 500 lines, resources at Moda Manhattan are up-scale, well-merchandised and inspired.

Moda Manhattan, AccessoriesTheShow Pavilion and Fame are coming back to New York on September 18-20, 2011. As the shows quickly approach, the excitement is building as BJI Fashion Group prepares a fundamental look of what’s in store for you this season.

MODA NYC Ready-To-Wear tradeshow will take place at the Javits Center.  

USA:Top plus-size model Danielle Line endorses AdoraOm

 

Wife, working Mom, Plus Size Model, Danielle Line adds ‘entrepreneur’ to her already full plate as she helps promote AdoraOm active wear into the plus size fashion forum.

October 2011, when the AdoraOm active wear collection becomes available via an online shopping boutique.

Superstar Plus-Size Model, Danielle Line, known for her girl-next-door good looks and natural beauty, has been contracted as the face of AdoraOm. Danielle’s role is as a “Curvy Consultant” for the new plus-size premium active wear brand by My’Om Active, LLC.

After performing as the company’s fit model for their breakout collection, AdoraOm chose the award-winning Los Angeles based plus-size model that has graced countless runways, websites, print ads, and catalogues, as well as magazine editorials, including Plus Model Magazine. In addition to her role as Curvy Consultant, Danielle will also oversee the free online personal shopping experience for the AdoraOm community.

“Originally, Danielle was hired to be our fit model. As we got to know her on a more personal level, we realized she embodies what we are exclusively about: empowerment through a healthy and self loving lifestyle. Although seam placement and fit are important to us, more importantly, AdoraOm is about relationships, friendships and elevating one another,” explains Jodi Geiger, a founding partner.

Danielle is all too familiar with the challenges plus size women must overcome to be more active, healthy and simply comfortable. According to co-founders Stacey Goldstein and Julie Koenig, "Danielle fits exactly who we are.” The company's creed, "There's Room for Every Body," exemplifies Danielle’s personal philosophy and further emphasizes the company’s goal to, not only dress fuller figures, but also to create a lifelong bond with their customers and their lives. The brand AdoraOm is much more than a clothing company for plus-size women; it is a lifestyle company which encompasses all arenas of healthy living.

Danielle Line is preparing to spark a passion for all plus size women to dress confidently, comfortably, and to incorporate a healthy lifestyle. In her new role as “Curvy Consultant,” Danielle will promote the AdoraOm collection, which currently includes active tops, bottoms, capris, jackets and headbands, proudly designed and assembled in the USA.

All pieces have been created and fitted for plus-size women, using the finest fabrics and the most appropriate sewing techniques to fit and flatter the fuller figure. As Danielle has learned to use her inner beauty to express her outer beauty, she will focus on empowering others to do the same wearing the new AdoraOm collection.

AdoraOm will be ready to greet online shoppers, October 2011.  

Singapore:Be ready… for Style War at WORLD RUNWAY

 

Raffles Royal Runway, Pte Ltd and Dentsu Inc announced that a new genre fashion contest event, FASHIONQUAKE AID 2011 "WORLD RUNWAY" –PREMIERE–, will be held in Singapore from September 16 to 18, with eight participating countries from around the world transcending brands to compete in a style battle.

Until recently, fashion events have tended to be single-brand shows. However, in 2005 several popular brands were gathered together under one roof for the Tokyo Girls Collection. This event, with the theme of "Real Clothes from Japan to the World," was a totally new fashion event that shook the world.

Jake f.R, who handled the planning and production of this semi-annual show until January 2011, will be the director for "WORLD RUNWAY," a new concept event which will take the form of a tournament-style fashion battle with a given theme in which the participating countries will pit their style techniques against each other. RRR and Dentsu will handle all the details regarding the actual implementation.

The countries participating in the inaugural event, which is being sponsored by the Singapore Tourism Board, are: Brazil, France, Italy, Japan, Russia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. The style battle will unfold between teams that include a stylist as the director and team leader, a makeup and hair artist, and five models.

The event will be made into a television program, with plans to broadcast it throughout Asia at a later date. The winning team will be awarded a monetary prize, part of which will be donated to disaster relief activities around the world.

RRR will be responsible for producing, running and promoting the event, while Dentsu will handle sponsorship sales and the sales of worldwide broadcasting rights. Building on the momentum generated by this premiere, the two companies will consider positioning this radical WORLD RUNWAY concept as a Fashion World Cup, and hold tournaments throughout the world.

FASHIONQUAKE AID 2011 "WORLD RUNWAY" –PREMIERE–, will be held in Singapore from September 16 to 18 at Singapore Indoor Stadium sponsor by Singapore Tourism Board (STB)

Tournament Rules
Each participating country will form a team that includes a stylist as the director and leader of the team, a makeup and hair artist, and five models appointed by the WORLD RUNWAY Committee. The teams will have two days, September 16 and 17, to select clothes and accessories related to the theme provided by the WORLD RUNWAY Executive Committee from boutiques and shopping malls in Singapore.

Their selections may be made freely, from high mode to street fashion brands. The judging panel will comprise one judge from each of the eight countries, and the team that receives the most points will be named the winner of the competition. The winning team will be awarded a prize of $100,000 (SPR), of which $50,000 (SPR) is to be donated toward natural disaster relief activity as "FASHIONQUAKE AID."  

Australia:Creative3 International Forum in Brisbane

 

The Creative3 International Forum returns to Brisbane in October this year with an unparalleled line-up of leading edge thinkers and experienced creative practitioners from around the world.

Leading the impressive speaker line-up is design luminary Stefan Sagmeister, the internationally acclaimed, two-time Grammy Award winning designer of New York based Sagmeister Inc..Sagmeister has designed for clients as diverse as the Rolling Stones, HBO, and the Guggenheim Museum and has won two Grammies for the Talking Heads and Brian Eno & David Byrne package designs.

Sagmeister will be joined by Orsola de Castro, Founder and Curator of the British Fashion Council’s Estethica and co-founder of the green label From Somewhere. From Somewhere opened its first flagship store in London’s Notting Hill and from there have designed best selling upcycled collections with Speedo liability stock to clothing for mass market retailer, Tesco. Orsola is well known for her Oscar Dress for Livia Firth, wife of best actor nominee Colin in 2010. In September 2006 with her partner Filippo Ricci, she started Estethica, the sustainable fashion trade fair at London Fashion Week which she curates and organises for the British Fashion Council.

Other speakers include Andrew Mason, producer of The Matrix, Matrix Reloaded and Matrix Revolutions, and leading advertising executive Craig Davis to name but a few. Host of the event, Creative Enterprise Australia CEO Anna Rooke said Creative3 offers a rare opportunity for many Australian creative businesses to hear first-hand and learn from some of the world’s most inspiring and influential creatives.

“Creative3 2011 will build on the success of last year’s inaugural event by again focusing on the three fundamental elements of creativity, enterprise and investment, while exploring the real issues faced by creative businesses and the latest trends and technologies to advance and sustain growth,” Ms Rooke said.

“This year, we will also look at how collaboration is being used to drive greater levels of creativity and innovation, develop new business models for creative start-ups, and attract different forms of investment.”

Trends such as disruptive entrepreneurs and their role in influencing new content, distribution and business models will provoke discussion and arm creative organisations with what’s become essential knowledge and unique capabilities in today’s 24/7 socially connected world.

The forum will bring together a 300 plus audience from leading creative entrepreneurs to Australia’s emerging talent and offer a practical hands-on program with more interactive panels and masterclasses to provide even greater opportunity to mix and learn from the world’s best.

Attendees will include early stage creative companies,
designers, growing SMEs, entrepreneurs, members of the Australian Association for Angel Investors (AAAI), Creative Industries Innovation Centre (CIIC) staff, academics from leading Australian universities, private investors, and government agencies associated with creative industries, new technologies and innovation.
 

USA:Debut of Jennifer Lopez & Marc Anthony collection at Kohl’s

 

Kohl's Department Stores announced the launch of two new contemporary lifestyle brands, the Jennifer Lopez Collection and the Marc Anthony Collection, now available exclusively at Kohl's stores nationwide. The collections will also be available on Kohls.com beginning September 11, 2011.

The Jennifer Lopez brand channels the timeless allure of old Hollywood in a contemporary interpretation of classic, sophisticated glamour. The collection includes contemporary sportswear, dresses, handbags, jewelry, shoes and sleepwear. Additionally, the Jennifer Lopez Home Collection consists of bedding and bath products.

"I have always been interested in fashion and believe great style is about the overall look vs. an individual piece," said Jennifer Lopez. "My new Kohl's collection truly reflects my personal style and I'm so excited to provide quality, on-trend fashions at a great value to women everywhere."

Taking cues from his musical roots and world travels, the Marc Anthony brand has a raw masculinity tempered with impeccable style. At launch, the collection includes apparel, sportswear, dress shirts, neckwear, suit separates, sport coats and shoes.

"I've adopted style cues from all over the world and have interpreted them into my lifestyle," said Marc Anthony. "The exclusive Marc Antony Collection is in essence a reflection of that part of my life and I'm very excited to bring great quality and design to men nationwide."

"We are thrilled to be the exclusive retailer for the Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony Collections, and proud to be able to partner with two, globally-recognized entertainers who are also known for their great style," said Kevin Mansell, Kohl's chairman, president and chief executive officer. "The Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony brands are two distinctive lifestyle collections that offer quality, contemporary fashions for men and women at a great value. We are confident the launch of these two separate brands will continue to differentiate Kohl's in the marketplace."

The Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony brands are prominently featured throughout Kohl's stores in the respective women's, home and men's departments. Each brand space includes beautiful images, custom fixtures, mannequin platforms and signature colors.

Based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl's is a family-focused, value-oriented specialty department store offering moderately priced, exclusive and national brand apparel, shoes, accessories, beauty and home products in an exciting shopping environment. With a commitment to environmental leadership, Kohl's operates 1,097 stores in 49 states.  

USA:Dockers teams with Alexander Wang & five designer brands

 

This September, the Dockers brand is partnering with celebrated apparel designer Alexander Wang—as part of his being named GQ's Best New Menswear Designer in America—and a diverse group of five other influential American menswear designers to unveil a limited-edition collection. The highly anticipated assortment allows each designer the opportunity to reinterpret the iconic khaki pant in a fresh, modern way, while using the Dockers brand's time-tested expertise in working with the fabric as a source of collaborative inspiration.

In addition to Wang, who received the honor earlier this year for his T by Alexander Wang collection, the khaki leader is teaming with designer brands Riviera Club, Miller's Oath, Warriors of Radness, and CFDA members Patrik Ervell and Michael Bastian in the creation of unique head-to-toe khaki looks.

Beautifully detailed, the resulting collection created by the winner and nominees of GQ's Best New Menswear Designers in America project showcases the Dockers brand's own khaki heritage, incorporating both utilitarian and sartorial details with each designer's clearly defined aesthetic. Highly collectible, the collaborative range will be introduced for purchase through an event hosted by actor Donald Glover from NBC's hit comedy "Community" at the Bloomingdale's store at 59th Street and Lexington Avenue in New York City. This in-store event is open to the public and will coincide with the third annual Fashion's Night Out shopping extravaganza in New York City on September 8.

"It was a huge honor to win the GQ Best New Menswear Designer in America award this year, and we've enjoyed the process of collaborating with GQ, Dockers and Bloomingdales," says winning-designer Alexander Wang.

Click here to read more details  

USA:Kathy Hilton launches ‘Special Occasion Dress’ collection

 

Kathy Hilton, designer and entrepreneur, is launching a ready-to-wear special occasion dress collection at the upcoming New York Fashion Coterie. She created and designed the collection for women who want to look fabulous on every special occasion in their life – from cocktail and party dresses, through to elegant gowns for Gala occasions. The Kathy Hilton collection is being designed and marketed in collaboration with Mon Cheri, and its CEO Stephen Lang.

The Kathy Hilton Collection will be headquartered in a boutique building located in the heart of Fashion’s “Seventh Avenue” at 552 7th Avenue in New York, NY. Hilton has assembled a team of fashion experts to handle merchandising, brand development and sales management. The team is headed by Evelyn Anastos, who brings more than 20 years experience in this market niche. Anastos is joined by Elias Gutierrez, as Associate Designer, and Clarissa A. O’Connor, as key Account Sales Manager. Gutierrez and O’Connor are both experienced executives in the social dress market.

Kathy Hilton has traveled the world and has always been a lover of fashion designs. Hilton is aware that today’s women need stylish clothing at down to earth prices. “My collection will allow women searching for a glamorous ‘special occasion’ dress, long, short or in-between, to find something unique for their lifestyles, without breaking the bank. I have always wanted to reach these women, and with this Collection, I believe we have.”

Mon Cheri CEO, Stephen Lang also adds, “I’m more than thrilled to collaborate with Kathy on this new collection. With Kathy’s innate fashion sense combined with Evelyn’s tenacity and merchandising background, I have no doubt that this new collection will flourish and succeed in today’s market.”

Kathy Hilton is married to real estate CEO Richard “Rick” Hilton and is the mother of four children. Kathy became active in various charity organizations. She has received many honors for her commitment and dedication to the causes she cares passionately about. In addition to her charity work, Kathy is also a TV entrepreneur.

Founded in 1991, Mon Cheri, LLC is an acclaimed manufacturer of wedding dresses, evening wear and children’s dresses. The company produces over twenty branded special occasion product lines worldwide.  

Sweden:Romantic Folklore featuring more sustainable style

 

Updated classics are the secret to great men’s style, which is why H&M has updated its Modern Classics line to ensure it provides the ultimate in wardrobe essentials. The focus is on suiting, with cuts influenced by Carnaby Street of the '60s and an updated take on East Coast preppy dressing. For early fall, cotton blazers are half-lined and wearable with matching pants or with cotton slacks in saturated blue or green for a modern style twist. Vivid color also adds a modern touch to fine-gauge knitwear, with contrast elbow patches that look best teamed with a crisp shirt in a Bardot check. As the season plays out, tweeds and flannels come to the fore, making sure the classics are always modern at H&M.

The sweet romance of Swedish folklore is the major influence for the Conscious collection this fall, proving that sustainability and style are second nature at H&M. Every piece in the collection is made with more sustainable materials, from organic cotton or linen to recycled wool and organic hemp. The silhouette is feminine and the pieces are luxuriously embellished, from the embroidered wool coats to the prettiest lace blouse, as well as floral print dresses and shoes. There are also some exclusive home decor pieces made from more sustainable materials, including a printed throw and pillows. The Conscious collection will be available in selected stores starting on October 6, 2011.

These are some of this season’s essential pieces at Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M):

WOMEN
• A double breasted blazer with gold buttons adds a chic attitude to the fall look, preferably combined with a printed bow blouse.

• Wide-leg pants are so versatile this season: dress them up with a masculine blazer or wear them with a poncho for a more relaxed style.

• The sheepskin coat can take you from day to night, the perfect piece to throw over your favorite jeans or to add texture over your party dress in the evening.

MEN
• A vivid yellow quilted down vest will instantly update your urban wardrobe. Wear it with a ray single-breasted suit for a completely new twist on the tailored look.

• Denim shirts are the casual style choice for the next few months, especially worn with crisp new chinos.

• For a warm fall look, wear a toggle-front duffle coat over a crewneck sweater or nostalgic Fair Isle stripes.

This autumn, it’s children who will be helping children. To raise funds for H&M and UNICEF’s initiatives a special collection of children’s clothing will be launched called All for Children. Already up and running in India, in some of the poorest cotton-growing communities in the world, these initiatives will be expanded to include Bangladesh.
 

UK:Mcarthurglen’s exclusive collection with Royal College Of Art Alumni

 

The three recipients of the first McArthurGlen Spirit of Fashion Awards, in association with the Royal College of Art, will reveal their unique designs on the 7 September at an exclusive McArthurGlen Spirit of Fashion pop up shop in London’s Seven Dials, Covent Garden.

The Spirit of Fashion Awards was judged in 2010 by Betty Jackson CBE, Peter Sidell (The Library/RCA visiting menswear professor) Professor Wendy Dagworthy OBE, Ike Rust and Tristan Webber (RCA senior fashion tutors) and Shaeren McKenzie - Marketing Director McArthurGlen. The winners, announced in June 2010, were briefed to reinvent a timeless classic fashion garment in their own ‘handwriting’ creating unique, commercial, designs.

As part of the award, McArthurGlen has provided the designers with 12 months PR support, access to leading industry professionals, and commercial exposure through the manufacture and sale of the Spirit of Fashion Collection which they have designed exclusively for this project.

The McArthurGlen Spirit of Fashion pop up shop will debut in London’s Seven Dials, Covent Garden at 4 Monmouth Street on the 7th September where it will stay open for 12 days. The pop up shop will then move onto Matthew Miller’s home town of Manchester (30 September - 6 October), before completing its journey in Rachael Barrett’s hometown of Glasgow (14 - 20 October).

Shaeren McKenzie, Director of McArthurGlen Group, says; “Reinventing a classic is one of the most difficult challenges any designer can face. To take something iconic and attempt to completely remould it from the original is a risk, and we were keen to see how each designer would approach this brief”.

Shaeren McKenzie continues; “What we ultimately wanted was a finished project that was true to each designer’s own personal style but at the same time demonstrated true commercial potential - and that in itself is a challenge. Getting the combination right was a real balancing act but has given the designers invaluable experience for their own labels.”

RACHAEL BARRETT - Womenswear
Rachael, the only womenswear designer to receive the McArthurGlen Spirit of Fashion Award, has produced a capsule collection, under the Spirit of Fashion/Rachael Barrett label. Inspired by classic old school uniforms, Rachael’s collection, her first since graduating from the RCA in 2009, is a world away from her graduate showcase of silicone and ethereal lace pieces which have been snapped-up by international music stars. The eight piece range features key uniform-inspired items such as a tunic, blazer and pleated skirt, produced in beautifully desirable fabrics in a muted colour palette and black.

MATTHEW MILLER - Menswear
Matthew, who through his mainline collections consistently pushes boundaries in terms of fabric compositions and manufacturing techniques, was inspired by the brief to create a blueprint for the ‘perfect’ white shirt. Never one to accept the status quo, Matthew’s design has been created using 3D software and digital print techniques. It is cut in pieces designed by the parameters of the system in which the 3D model was folded, resulting in an end product that reduces waste, is cost efficient and environmentally friendly. His method could set a new benchmark for future approach to design across the industry.
 

Australia:WA Fashion Awards finalists announced

 

The 36 finalists of this year’s WA Fashion Awards (WAFAs) were announced at Perth Fashion Festival’s (PFF) exclusive Style Circle event held last night at Wolfe Lane.

The finalists stretch across nine categories honouring students, writers, creators and models from the elite talent pool of Western Australian fashion.

The categories include WA Designer of the Year, Designer of Tomorrow, Fine Details, Runway Model of the Year, Photographic Model of the Year, Hot New Talent, Creative Edge, Best Blogger and Best Dressed Boutique.

Festival Director Mariella Harvey-Hanrahan said this year’s finalists represent the high calibre talent in our local fashion industry. “Every nominee in this year’s Awards bring something different to his or her category, and really show why Western Australia is fast becoming a global fashion destination,” Ms Harvey-Hanrahan said.

The finalists were nominated earlier this year by the State’s influential fashion industry community known as Style Circle. Style Circle includes more than 200 Western Australian fashion industry professionals including designers, stylists, creatives, beauty and hair stylists, media, models and modeling industry members and photographers.

The Style Circle members will vote on the finalists within each category and the winners will be announced at the WAFAs, set to be held in November this year.

WA Fashion Awards categories and nominees include:
Photographic Model of the Year: Rosie Tupper (Viviens), Emily Green (Viviens), Holly Caiulo (Chadwicks), Caris Tiivel (Chadwicks), Jessi Moloney (Scene), Jonathon Woodward (Scene)

Runway Model of the Year: Sarah Kate (Viviens), Sally Paten (Viviens), Holly Caiulo (Chadwicks), Fiona Thomas (Chadwicks), Evelyn Leckie (Scene), Rebecca Jones (Scene)

Hot New Talent: Stef Roberts (Viviens), Sarah Tilekke (Viviens), Georgia Herbert (Chadwicks), Gabrielle Sullivan(Chadwicks), Morgana Powell (Scene), Paige Bavich (Scene)

WA Designer of the Year: Flannel, Ae’lkemi, One Fell Swoop

Designer of Tomorrow: Little Gracie, Ange Lang, Zhivago

Fine Details: Toto Moto, Pinchandspoon, Harpers

Creative Edge: Pip McManus: Fashion Illustrator, Marie Cain: Hair Director, Hannah McGrath: Stylist

Best Blogger: Dropstitch, Style Voyuer, Bonnie Friday

Best Dressed Boutique: Zara Bryson, S2, Wasteland  

UK:Tracey Boyd launches key pieces for John Lewis

 

Featuring Boyd’s signature style of ornate embellishment and embroidery, the collection takes inspiration from key pieces in her fashion archive. Available at selected John Lewis branches and online at website - the designer range includes accessible mini and maxi dresses in chiffon and jersey in a vivid rainbow colour palette.

Tracey Boyd, says: “For me, the name John Lewis stands for tradition, quality and fairness and is a very important part of my British heritage. I have always admired the way the John Lewis Partnership works, so when they approached me, I was very happy to design an exclusive collection for them.”

Taking influence from the sequin clad starlets of Studio 54, Boyd’s collection has a strong seventies theme, an era set to dominate SS11 fashions. The range is figure flattering whilst still incorporating Boyd’s chic patterns and impeccable detail.

Boyd, continues: “The designs encapsulate all my favourite Boyd trademarks: gorgeous seventies sequins, beaded shifts, exquisite embroideries and dreamy daisy prints for fabulous summer parties. I believe these beautiful clothes will make you feel happy, confident, bright and beautiful.”

Jo Hooper, Head of Womenswear Buying at John Lewis, says: “It’s such a privilege to collaborate with Tracey on this project which is a fantastic addition to our growing portfolio of designer collaborations. Tracey’s collection is vibrant and fun, but most importantly accessible and approachable for every woman.”

Tracey Boyd Career Snapshot:
• A self-taught and self-financed fashion designer whose career began in illustration, Tracey founded her modern womenswear label ‘Boyd’ in 1996.

• The label fast became a favourite for the red carpet with celebrities including Kate Winslett, Rachel Weisz, Kirsten Dunst and Keira Knightly modelling her designs.

• Following the success of its first catwalk show in 1999, Boyd was bought and stocked in some of the most famous fashion boutiques in the world including Bergdorf Goodman, Barneys, Neimann Marcus, Harrods, Selfridges and Galeries Lafayette.

• In 2000, Tracey won ‘New Generation’ award at the British Fashion Awards – other nominees were Stella McCartney and Matthew Williamson.

• 2001 saw the Boyd flagship store open in London SW1 showcasing the full catwalk collection as well as swimwear, shoes, accessories, vintage and interior ranges.