New York Fashion Week: Inspired by Art

Eila Mell, author of Project Runway, spoke to various designers during New York Fashion Week to ask who, or what, inspired their S/S 2015 collections. And as you can see, top designers don’t just look to fashion when creating their new look. Art, culture, travel and explorers of the world play a big part in giving a collection its signature nuance.

BCBG designer Max Azria stated he was inspired by artisanal rugs from ABC carpet when creating his line of pretty pastel dresses.



While the house of Tome found inspiration in the photography works of Dayanita Singh. The lightest laces and silks were used primarily, the overall line being ultra feminine.


Tadashi Shoji’s pieces were fashionable works of art, like the Ca’ d’Oro in Venice come to life. Sweeping capes and intricate patterns were sewn onto lux fabrics.



Designer Lisa Perry told Mell that artist Barnett Newman inspired the looks that were presented on the runway. Technical fabrics and innovative cuts were at play in the modern show.


And last but not least, Nicholas K took cues from Swiss explorer Isabelle Eberhardt with his earthy palette and fashion-forward outerwear.

Betsey Johnson’s PRENUP Collection Brings Back ‘80s Pizzazz and Introduces Some Unlikely Models






The always vivacious Betsey Johnson brought humor, flair, drag, and even some housewives to the runway for New York City Fashion Week. She debuted her PRENUP wedding-themed collection for S/S 2015 with a mix of gowns, lingerie, and ‘80s prom ensembles. Like Betsey and her clothing, the show was playful. She chose to ditch traditional models and used a few “Real Housewives”: Camille Grammer, Cynthia Bailey, and Kristen Taekman. Betsey also incorporated same sex couples and a transgendered bride into her runway along with her Dancing With The Stars partner, Tony Dovolani. Somehow Betsey incorporates frill, lace, and metallic colors into a bold, fearless line that we can’t help but adore. See some highlights from Betsey Johnson’s flamboyant show below.


Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway

Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway

Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway

Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway

Betsey Johnson NYFW SS2015 Runway

Runway at Michael Costello: New York Fashion Week

Eila Mell, Runway correspondent and author of Project Runway and New York Fashion Week, was live at the Michael Costello S/S collection presentation in New York. Mell, along with photographer David Kester, captured a sneak preview of Michael Costello’s gorgeous gowns (and crowns!).

Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ® Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ®

Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ® Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ®

Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ® Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ®

Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ® Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ®

Michael Costello by David Kester - RUNWAY ®

Paris Hilton Backstage at Michael Costello - RUNWAY®

Paris Hilton Backstage at Michael Costello

All photography by David Kester

Runway Recap: Tory Burch for New York Fashion Week

Designer and CEO, Tory Burch showcased her S/S 2015 line at New York City’s Fashion Week. In true Tory Burch fashion, the collection bursts with bold colors and patterns, but also tones down with many neutral creams and beiges. Burch’s models strutted down the runway adorning ready-to-wear ensembles, like mod-style dresses, crisp collared shirts and easy, breezy skirts. Also on display was the designer’s shoe and bag line. Sensible, laced oxfords and flat sandals were showcased along with fun, colorful purses that would be suited for work or play.


Tory Burch NYFW 2014 RUNWAY Tory Burch NYFW 2014 RUNWAY

Tory Burch NYFW 2014 RUNWAY Tory Burch NYFW 2014 RUNWAY

Tory Burch NYFW 2014 RUNWAY Tory Burch NYFW 2014 RUNWAY

Fashion Rocks 2014: Rock Roll…and Lots of Booty!

After a 5 year hiatus, Fashion Rocks returned to CBS live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The night, which marries music and fashion—a match made in heaven—was a nonstop party of booty-shaking, models and celebrities strutting their stuff, and lots of exposed skin.

Justin Bieber tried his hand at being a Calvin Klein model when he took the stage to present blonde beauty Rita Ora. The Biebs stripped down to his underwear and showed off his tattooed bod, much like the models that walked the stage while Rita Ora, clad in a glitzy British flag duster, performed David Bowie’s “Fashion”. This little stunt threw the crowd, and social media, into a frenzy of boos and cheers.

In other skin-baring news, Jennifer Lopez, the original booty-queen, flashed her behind during her latest song, appropriately titled, “Booty”. Keeping with the theme of the night, Nicki Minaj performed her bootylicious hit, “Anaconda” wearing a diamond-studded bra and a super short denim skirt.

Other highlights of Fashion Rocks included performances by Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, Jennifer Hudson, The Band Perry, Luke Bryan, Duran Duran and Usher, who opened the show with his summer hit, “She Came To Give It To You”. And how do you close any kind of show with “rock” in the title? With KISS, of course! Gene Simmons and the guys performed their class hit, “Rock and Roll All Nite”.

Check out some of the best photos from Fashion Rocks 2014.


Bella Thorne on red carpet Jennifer Lopez on red carpet


Jennifer Lopez performs “Booty”

Nicki Minaj on red carpet Bieber strips to his underwear

Lily Aldridge on red carpet Karolina Kurkova on red carpet


Britney Spears: The Intimate Collection Debuted Today

With seven full collections, or “stories”, available, as well as various other pieces, Spears, along with CHANGE Lingerie, has designed a beautiful line that is elegantly feminine and delicately charming. Inspired by various flowers, the “stories” carry names such as “Amaryllis” and “Bergonia”, and are a mix of girlishly sweet and grown-up Britney. On the sweeter side we see the “Clematis” collection, featuring a pink lace triangular push-up that offers more coverage, and the ruffled dusty rose bra from “Buttercup”, while the black bustiere of “Anemone” and the garter suspenders in “Amaryllis” are more grown-up and sexy.

In addition to lingerie and softer bedroom pieces such as robes and kimonos, The Intimate Collection also offers sweats, basic separates and jersey sleepwear. What we love most about the sleepwear is that it’s still sexy. Comfortable, full coverage ensembles still feature special touches, such as satin ribbons, lace trims and crocheted edges, allowing a woman to feel beautiful no matter what’s on the agenda, or which piece of the collection she is wearing. With most pieces priced under $70, it is a collection that is luxurious and affordable. Making it easy to obtain a whole collection or piece together favorites from each to write your own story.


For more on the new collection, visit http://www.intimatebritneyspears.us/

New York Fashion Week Spotlight: Monique Lhuillier's New York Fairytale






Monique Lhuillier‘s Spring/Summer 2015 collection was a true New York fairytale. In keeping with the pastel trend, Lhuillier presented a daywear collection full of iridescent fabrics and classic retro silhouettes on skirts and strapless tops with ribbon piped edging. The palette featured a sweet mix of blush pink, buttery yellow, blue and lavender with modern black.


The eveningwear sparkled. Literally. Curve hugging, floor-sweeping gowns were embellished with intricate beading, floral appliques, crystals or sequins that lent a shimmer to almost every piece we saw. Shorter numbers were also present in keeping in tone for Spring.



The finale gowns were a favorite with their sumptuous bustles. A handful of young and fashionable stars also took notice of this beautiful new collection. Jennifer Morrison, Jamie Chung and Sophia Bush were among the stars present in the front row.


Bush poses with Lhuillier Morrison and Chung in a friendly embrace

And not to go unmentioned is Lhuillier’s wedding collection, ready for spring/summer 2015 at https://www.moniquelhuillier.com/



The Kings and Queens of Scottish Fashion are Crowned at the 2014 Scottish Fashion Awards

The glittering black tie gala and ‘Scottish Banquet’ was held at 8 Northumberland in London and presented by the ever stylish TV personality Laura Whitmore with the gala being attended by a host of stars from the fashion, music and entertainment industries including Holly Fulton, Andreas Kronthaler, Tali Lennox, David Gandy, Twin Atlantic, Tallia Storm, Pam Hogg, Lilah Parsons, Jenni Falconer, Sam McKnight, Henry Holland, Lynsey Sharp (Commonwealth medalist), Brix Smith Start, Leah & Natt Weller, Tanya Burr, Oliver Cheshire, Nina Nesbitt and Seb Morris. Pixie Lott performed a surprise acoustic set to the VIP audience.

 

 

 

The Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael MP said: “These awards are respected around the world and, judged by a panel of renowned and esteemed international industry figures, they provide an invaluable platform for emerging Scottish talent, textile manufacturers, and fashion’s future leaders who were represented here this evening. Looking at the winners and nominees we are reminded of the importance their businesses play in exporting and promoting Scottish creativity, design and culture on the world stage.”

 

 

 

Dame Vivienne Westwood was inducted into the Hall of Fame for her undeterred loyalty and unparalleled love and passion for Scottish textiles and fabrics, which she has consistently used throughout her collections over the years. Christopher Kane was named Scottish Designer of the Year, whilst sixteen year old Jean Campbell was named Scottish Model of the Year having secured campaigns with Burberry and featuring in both British and Italian Vogue and singer Amy Macdonald was crowned Scottish Fashion Icon.

 

 

 

Emerging talents were recognised with Hayley Scanlan who was presented with the Scottish Young Designer of the Year award and Colleen Leitch was named Scottish Graduate of the Year. William Chambers Millinery took home the Scottish Accessory Designer of the Year award and Abandon Ship Apparel received the Scottish Retailer of the Year.

 

 

 

Exciting performance cashmere brand Dhu were crowned Scottish Textile Brand of the Year and Scots Fashion Director of Harper’s Bazaar Avril Mair received a nod asScottish Communicator of the Year.

 

 

 

Mackintosh Rainwear were recognised for their export success and crowned Scottish Exporter of the Year and Simone Rocha was crowned International Designer of the Year for her Scottish inspired autumn/winter 2014 collection.

 

 

 

Harvey Nichols Edinburgh fought off stiff competition from Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry, Louis Vuitton and Emporio Armani to scoop Luxury Retailer of the Year (operating in Scotland).

 

 

 

Supermodel David Gandy was given the prestigious Founders Awards for his support of Scottish and British fashion over the last nine years. Marks & Spencer and The British School of Fashion were honoured as Fashion Ambassadors for their unique and exciting partnership. M&S set up a scholarship and creative hub at the school’s Fashion Street campus in London, setting a benchmark for the future of fashion relationships between industry and education.

 

 

 

Tessa Hartmann said: “The Scots have played a significant part in the evolution of British fashion from our precious fabrics, yarns and textiles to our fashion designers, leading communicators and business players, many of whom were honoured here this evening. International designers continue to seek inspiration from our Scottish heritage and fabrics, and season after season we witness a tartan frenzy within collections manufactured and inspired by Scotland. In fact, one would be hard pressed to deny that the design talent that hails from our lands has purloined our hearts and changed the way we now look at Scottish fashion. This is more than a ‘fashion moment’, this is a legacy that we hope to continue and grow at the awards, where we gather for one night a year, invading this fine city and putting on party to remember!”

 

 

 

Dubbed the ‘Oscars of Scottish Fashion’, VIP guests indulged in fine dining Scottish Banquet with Scottish scallops, Highland beef, neeps & tatties served with Haggis croquettes and to finish, a raspberry cranachan, strawberry shortbread and Mars Bar shot with tempura topping!

 

 

 

The Russian Standard Vodka After Party served complementary Russian Mules whilst the guests danced the night away to the sounds of DJ duo, Beatnik.

 

 

 

Each guest received the ultimate goodie bag. A limited edition Holly Fulton for Radley tote was filled with gifts from Bobbi Brown, Toni & Guy, Deeside Water, Tunnocks, Walkers Shortbread, Hangover Mints, Russian Standard Vodka and Roundsquare Coffee. The most extravagant gift came from the events Official Jeweller, the world’s leading simulated diamond jewellery boutique – Tru Diamonds, who gifted each guest with diamond earrings and a necklace.

 

 

 

Hailed as a ‘Scottish Fashion Invasion’ of London at the start of the international fashion season, the Scots celebrated in grand style as they raised a toast to 2015 when they will celebrate their 10th Anniversary! The question is how do they top the success of 2014 and indeed more poignantly will they still be part of Britain or not?

 

 

 

The Scottish Fashion Awards 2014 winners are;

 

Scottish Designer of the Year – Christopher Kane

 

 

 

Scottish Young Designer of the Year – Hayley Scanlan

 

 

 

Scottish Textile Brand of the Year – Dhu

 

 

 

Scottish Communicator of the Year – Avril Mair, Harper’s Bazaar

 

 

 

Scottish Retailer of the Year – Abandon Ship Apparel

 

 

 

Scottish Accessory Designer of the Year – William Chambers Millinery

 

 

 

Scottish Fashion Graduate of the Year – Colleen Leitch

 

 

 

International Designer of the Year – Simone Rocha

 

 

 

Scottish Model of the Year – Jean Campbell

 

 

 

Scottish Exporter of the Year – Mackintosh

 

 

 

Luxury Retailer – Harvey Nichols, Edinburgh

 

 

 

Fashion Icon 2014 – Amy MacDonald

 

 

 

Hall of Fame 2014 – Dame Vivienne Westwood

 

 

 

Fashion Ambassador 2014 –

 

Professor Christopher Moore on behalf of Professor Pamela Gillies, British School of Fashion

 

Belinda Earle on behalf of Marc Bolland, Marks and Spencer

 

 

 

Founders Awards 2014 – David Gandy (pictured above by Getty Images)

 

 

 

 

Tome Shimmers at New York Fashion Week

Tome creators, Ramon Martin and Ryan Lobo, revealed their S/S 2015 collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York City on September 4th. The collection favors dark colors, such as black and burnt orange, but mixes them up with on-trend shimmery pinks and gold. Tome’s Spring looks are all about lace, perforation, belted dresses, flowy pants and skirts. A cultural flair is also present with kimono and sari-esque ensembles. Runway picked out some of the favorite highlights from the line…






Surviving New York Fashion Week: Where To Sleep, Drink, Shop Eat

However, in doing so, you will miss so much of the magic that goes on. I am here to help you know where to find the best eats, the best places to stay, and the best place to grab a drink (martini, cappuccino, or otherwise) when you just need to sit down and kick off your Manolo’s.

While most of the shows take place at Lincoln Center, others are scattered about town, so it makes it easier to adventure out to some of the best eateries, bars and hotels when you are wanting the best experience. And like I said, even if you’re a local or weren’t lucky enough to score a coveted show invite, visiting some of the places on our list may put you in direct contact with the crème de le crème of the fashion world. And is there a better time of year to people watch? The street style fashion against a Manhattan backdrop is a wonderful show in itself.

I will get on with it, as I know you have a lot to get to this week.

Chances are you’ve parked your luggage at a place in the city already, but if you are coming in late, are looking an upgrade, or would just like some insight to the best hotels to check out, we have our top three list for the area. The Gramercy Park hotel offers a nice rooftop terrace café, as well as great lunch and dinner selections. The hotel also hosts several of the week’s after-parties. The midtown hotel, Quin allows you direct access to your own Bergdorf Goodman personal shopper and high-end toiletries if you’re looking for decadence. Lastly, the Ludlow Hotel downtown is elegant, featuring sheepskin throws and silk rugs. This is a top pick for best lobby bar, as the ambiance is cozy and private.

Next, let us move onto the best breakfast and coffee shops to hit when you rise and shine each morning. Coffee is a must-have when you spend the day show hopping, meeting with business partners, friends or just perusing the shops all day. Loews Regency Hotel is the place to meet for breakfast. Located on Park Avenue, regulars call this the birthplace of the power breakfast. If you don’t have for a full breakfast, grab a cup of coffee at the hotels Sant Ambroeus Coffee bar. A Milanese style coffee bar that brews a special brand of coffee and features a pristine, jewel box atmosphere. There is also Greenwich Avenues Bluestone Lane Collective Café, an airy space that offers delicious espresso and egg sandwiches.

For casual dinner and drinks, the Burger Joint is a fun little old school eatery that offers quality burgers and fries, and is still close enough to Lincoln Center, inside Le Parker Meridian, that you won’t feel rushed. Although make sure you have some cash on you when you do, as they are still old school enough to not take credit cards.

For something a little more high-end, but still not to “sceney”, visit the West Village’s Whitehall. A great place to catch a good fashion crowd with a relaxed vibe. A favorite dish of the owner’s wife? The vegetable curry with jasmine rice and sprouts. There is also Narcissa, an East Village eatery that combines Californian cuisine with organic, local produce.

And let’s not forget the shopping. After all, we aren’t here to just LOOK. Well, ok, some of us are, but sometimes you can’t resist picking up a high-end piece or two, and browsing the fashion markets that pop up throughout the city. Opening Ceremony is a great place to find a mix of street wear and high-end fashion, so there is something for everyone.

Treasure and Bond is another shop in Soho that carries a highly edited collection of clothes, accessories and home goods. A plus to this posh spot is that 100% of their proceeds go to help good causes.

And lastly, if you’re ahead of the game and your S/S 2015 closet is stocked, stop by Gotham West Market to shop for luxury coffee and kitchenwares to take you through the fall holiday season.

I hope wherever you find yourself this week, that you take time to sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty that comes to the city when the world’s top designers present their blood, sweat and tears to the masses. Hoping that we are moved by the art they have created, if only for a fleeting New York moment.

New York Fashion Week Spotlight: BCBG Max Azria

Max Azria for BCBG presented 34 gorgeous looks on this morning’s runway. The S/S 2015 collection was a refreshing scoop of sherbet hues and icy whites. The designs were simplistic and delicate, mixing necklines in looks that were both deeply cut and more demure.

Azria used light-as-a-feather fabrics that flowed beautiful on floor-length gowns. Shorter, heavier pieces were still light but were reminiscent of kimonos for eveningwear. Waists were tied, taking the robe coat style that is so popular for Fall 2014 to a more elegant level.

Severe drop waist dresses were in dreamy shades of blue and featured colorful prints that caught the eye but didn’t overwhelm. The BCBG woman this Spring is feminine and light. A woman who is confident in her own skin.

Hair and makeup was kept fresh and natural in keeping with the no-fuss, no-frills theme of the show. For the sophisticated woman who wants to show a little skin while maintaining a look that’s still classic, you can’t go wrong with this collection.