Fashion No-No

Talk about a blast from the past- literally. Allegedly brought to the attention to the public in 2004, it seems that Louis Vuitton himself joined forces with Nazis in France during World War II. However, found in the written work of Stephanie Bonvicini's Louis Vuitton, A French Saga, this news was not brought forward to taint the reputation of the ever so popular designer, but to celebrate the Monsieur's 150 years of growing success. A Louis Vuitton spokesperson however did not deny the facts.

I guess supplying President Auriol of France's travel items for his tour to America post war didn't hinder the brand's reputation but only heighten its stature amongst the French elitist. Now that's what I call an excellent move in damage control.

Now Even That’s A Stretch.....

We know leggings are popular and everything, and with summer right in front of us, so is tanning mist-

all created by the ever Miss Popular, Lindsey Lohan- but would fashionistas’ of the upper crust take her more serious if she added The House of Emanuel Ungaro to her resume?

I know I certainly wouldn’t and I think many Parisians would agree, including those in the Ungaro Household. Esteban Cortazar, head designer of the distinguished House, is not at all convinced and his threats to leave the company are in the air should Lohan sign on. But it doesn’t stop there. Not only will Cortazar take his team with him along with the line that he introduced in 2002 but leave Lohan in the dust.

Now I understand the merge of celebrities from the silver-screen and runways and into our closets. Take the ‘Kate Moss Madness’ that inhibits the United Kingdom- her designs and contribution to the Top Shop clientele has spawned a phenomenon of well known celebrities becoming part of our lives everyday. But since when did performing in a few films, getting your photograph snapped during lock up, going to rehab, and creating mindless fashion ever qualify someone to work with someone as famous and prestigious as Emanuel? Bigger question is will House of Manuel turn into Lohan’s next mess-up?

Barbie Leaves Hollywood For Bollywood

With her pink stilettos, her classy convertibles and her pink ensembles, Barbie is no stranger to little girls.

Her international character companions consist of Beyonce, Diana Ross, Cher and Twiggy and hundreds of others. But it doesn't stop there, she will soon be welcoming Katrina Kaif, the first Indian to join little girls’ as best friends round the world dressed in her own Barbie couture in the Barbie Museum in fashion capital, New York City.

In honor of the plastique socialite’s 50th anniversary- and looking still looking as remarkable and stylish as ever- Mattel held a Barbie Couture contest during Lakme India Fashion Week to style the new Bollywood Barbie; Designer Nishka Lulla took the win and will have the privilege of dressing her own nation’s first Barbie with Katrina and Barbie herself as her muse. If only I was ten years old again, what would I give for my own Barbie- in the museum that is.

What's In A Name

It was my favorite color as a little girl and today it seems a group of designers

have decided that Pretty in Pink is just too cliche. So how could they incorporate the color without feeling too girly? How else but by changing its name. Hello fuchsia and magenta and pleasure to meet you! From upscale ties for men to full-length fur coats for women (compliments alla Michael Kors), it’s obviously that ‘the new pink’ has arrived, and here to stay- through the summer and into fall.

And thank god for that. I was so bored of blacks and browns that it’s finally nice to break up the color schemes of the streets to something a bit more vivacious. And It was about time people realized the color’s potential to bring life into their fashion cupboards and out on the runways, it's just too bad it took so long to for the hue to get noticed. But lovers beware, before dressing to dazzle, don’t forget your tan because- according to the color shrink- it looks spectacular on darker tones.

A Rebirth in Fashion

When it comes to business, it seems as if the fashion industry might be struggling, but thanks to two Gladiator Girl(s), a rebirth is on the rise for high fashion.

Welcome to Nibbatti, the new fashion line that was born out of destruction and is now making a prominent impression on US fashion. The two creators, Emmanuelle Cagol Landrieu and Lynda Martin, started their line after Hurricane Katrina left its mark on the Crescent City of New Orleans.

How exactly is the line making a dent in the fashion industry? Not only do the collections offer sensual pieces, with bright and eye-catching color, but come from inspirations that both women have acquired in their past - from Hollywood

actors to international travels- the pieces are all "modern, classic, and easy to fit any lifestyle."

So how is this line fighting the economic climate and what exactly makes it so different from all others popping up? Well, what's in a name, we should ask, as the name the two designers choose, Nibbatti, is a Buddhist term meaning rebirth- and that's exactly what they are doing. With every purchase, a percentage of profits go towards rebuilding the historical city that both creators love.

This is one line that fashionistas must keep their eyes out for, as it's mainly based in the south of the US. However, for those interested in the line and nowhere within reach, order forms are available at their site at www.Nibbatti.com where you can pick and choose from favorites amongst One Night Stands, Breakfast At Tiffanys, and my personal favorite, Hotel California- coral and mint both hanging in my closet.

Show us the LOVE

With the words 'economic climate' hanging on every sentence and the topic of every cocktail party, we've forgotten the creativity that makes up the fashion industry.

Thankfully we have Katie Grand, Todd Lynn and Christopher Kane to save the day with their Love- literally. The trio have brought fashionistas a new magazine from CondeNast, Love Magazine, which brings us closer to the fashion and fame that over runs our wardrobes.

It would appear that timing for such a publication would be anything but perfect now, considering that one of Conde's super glossy, Vogue, is anything but on the rise of ad sales, but the Love team are determined to give the economic climate a run for it's money.

From its first cover image to the contents inside, this magazine is one that has fashion followers raving all the while. That's what's putting Love Magazine ahead, one stiletto at a time.

It's what the fashion industry needs at the moment though, something to stir things up in the martini glass and have people talking. Imran Amed is Editor of The Business of Fashion commented that, "If that’s not an endorsement for creativity in a time of crisis, I don’t know what is." Couldn't have said it better myself.

Life Under The Sea

I saw these randomly searching pages and couldn't help but wondering if The Little Mermaid was to wear stilettos, if she'd pick these.

Mary Christmas

Wishing you a very beautiful and warm Christmas!

Eat, drink, and be merry!!!

May your stockings be filled with treasures and many your linens be kept warm with you and your loved ones!

And no need to raise alarm- the baby Jesus here isn’t real. This compilation was put together by Ismael de la Caridad for a fashion show in Havana. Photographer Javier Galeano captures the festive spirit- even on the runway.

My Lady!

Only a month left before we’ll see the Obama family step up to new heights, and this time on a mound of green overlooking the capital of the USA. However, the big question on plenty on fashionable minds is, what will the first lady be wearing as to the inaugural balls.

With January 20^th just around the corner- literally- there is no doubt that on many minds- many are pondering exactly what designer future First Lady will be wearing. Even contestants on the hit show Runway were asked to design their own creations for the new and upcoming Jackie Onassis look a like- Michelle Obama.

Hopefully within a few weeks we’ll be seeing what's the lady’s choice. Looking forward to it- as so many of famous creators have stepped forward in doing the honors.

How Dolce Is Dolce

As if the image of Dolce & Gabbana couldn’t get any sweeter. Word on the red carpet is that the stunning face of Scarlett Johansson will be gracing the Spring 09 campaign, photographed by Mert and Marcus. Whether it’s for her beauty or fashion, no one really knows, but Johansson lacks neither.

Having already graced the faces among L’Oreal and Vuitton the scarlet will simply be adding another chic name to her resume of stylish houses. This upcoming spring will also include other remarkable women like Katie Holmes for Miu Miu and Madonna for Vuitton. Seems things will be warming up soon enough.

Fashion Almanac

As the end of the year approaches, a new upcoming season plus fashion show is on the rise. With that comes the appearance of the bi-annual fashion guide magazine- The Fashion Almanac. Thanks to its editor-in-chief, Laura Bradley, we now have an almanac guide to everything fashion.

The Fashion Almanac’s release will coincide with the seasonal fashion shows in the British Capital and will be sold for £5.00 an issue.

The 100 page magazine will stay true to a reference book so it will contain a variety of “lists, tables… brief articles.”

There will be a limited amount stocked around town so if you’re lucky to find yourself one- well consider yourself just that. I’ll have to find my copy somewhere in LonTown. If you’re not fortunate enough to find- don’t be deterred. Check out the website, already up and running with content.

Talk About Chilling Out

Not only does the worshipped fashion house make exquisite ball gowns and scrumptious suits- Versace will now be creating a beach, newly designed in order not to scorch your delicate feet.

Imagine a beautiful beach next to the Palazzo Versace Hotel which is in the works right now in Dubai. And keep in mind the summer temperatures, highs up to 50C. In order to keep your cool as you saunter from one posh cabana to another, flaunting your bronze tan and stunning swimwear, the beach’s sand will be cooled. Running a network of piping below the sand will absorb the heat from the surface, keeping you chilled.

But the chilling attitude doesn’t stop there. A refrigerated pool is being discussed, along with arming up the beach with giant blowers to create a refreshing breeze while you break out in sweats.

Course, with this not only come the rich and famous. You’ll have to include the environmentalists on that list which will be surely furious with something of this demand. However, Soheil Abedian, the founder and president of Palazzo Versace, believes the project to be sustainable- and the idea itself well, come on- “this is the kind of luxury that top people want,” is it not?

Sheesh, if it’s not then boy- are my priorities out of wack. At least I’m on the same page with Versace who ten years ago preached that luxury fashion branded resorts were in demand. Better start making your own reservations for a cabana next holiday.

That’s a Phony

She was brought to life a little over 60 years. Once a fashionista treasure- this precious piece of history is popping up on the arms of the masses- and you can thank TopShop for that. Created in February 1955, Coco Chanel’s signature quilted handbag, hence the 2.55 name, is one of a kind. Now brought to life in gold or silver- and a variety of colors (the gold is to die for, really) – it’s always add a signature to any fashionable attire.

However, it seems that Madam Coco has been shamed and taken over by the conglomerate worshippers of Top Shop. For a fraction of the ‘Classic’ cost (£860), you can purchase the cheap knock off at the chain store for a mere £50. Of course, that is if you are willing to sacrifice the original’s perfected stitching, metal chain straps, and front clasp which sing Chanel- real Chanel that is. As for the Phony- don’t even bother- because you really will get thrown out of the bag with the trash.

West Moves East

Pharrell isn’t the only one in the music industry who has made the move into fashion. Nor is he the last. Reportedly, the multi hit single Kanye West will be joining us on this island and moving to the British capital, to pursue his own passion for fashion.

With his own design label, Pastelle, up and coming, West will be training in order to not only to sharpen his craft but along with the processes of making it in the fashion firms all across Europe.

West’s plan, “take an internship… do something that's normal… and rap on the weekends.”

First stop, Louis Vuitton headquarters in London. Not a bad place to start, eh? Not too shabby, not too shabby.....

Trunk Full

Talk about tons of little treasures in a big package, and so fashionably enclosed! A custom-crafted chic Goyard white trunk- completely luxurious- is for sale with 100 of Assouline’s collection of photo- biographies on all things trendy- from art to architecture, fashion to design. *Cough, cough- Did I mention all things fashion?

Made specifically for: www.Revolveclothing.com the entire set comes at a price of $200,000 USD. Of course, not only do you get tons of juicy photos on Chanel, Dior, and Gabbana- the trunk is large enough to live in- and with Cavalli, Emilio, and Gucci as roommates- who has needs of the basics like the kitchen sink!

Put Me In My Own Skin

Fashion is a killer. This time is no exception. Kingston University graphic design students, Daniele Jon and Jessica Baek, created a poster in order to provoke feelings for fashionistas and fur bearers on the tragedy of the fur trade that is at large. The design, a blood-splattered nude model draped in an accompanying bloody fur coat, took second place in the Design Against Fur, the competition with a conscience.

Executed in one of Kingston’s photographic studios, the shoot took several hours to capture the dramatic details that the students wanted to portray, “We wanted to provoke the viewer,” Daniele 24 said. The message, that if people were in their animal bearer’s skin, they’d feel the pain.

The pair was awarded the Persula Award, given annually to one winner by the national charity, The Persula Foundation. The pair’s lecturer in graphic design, Marion Morrison, was not surprised about her students and acknowledges “Both have the energy and drive to solve design problems in an informed and inventive way… especially around challenging topics.”

Now that's a harsh way of putting me back in my own skin, being a fur wearer myself, but I guess honesty's a pain, and in this case- literally.

A Nude Direction

British, cheeky, and basically fearless, Henry Holland is no stranger to London’s fashion streets. Known for his “Do Me Daily Christopher Bailey” and “Uhu Gareth Pugh” (circa 2006), Holland’s House of Holland is now moving into a new direction- or perhaps nude direction. However much the same the line will remain, FUN and funky all the while, sex slogan tee shirts will now be more, well, graphic nude tees.

The rich and fashionable clad include a topless Donatella Versace to a bottomless Karl Lagerfeld (Chanel’s signature flower serves a new purpose) and others. Not available until 2009, you can start saving your pennies for the coveted cartoons- retailing for £75.

Picture Perfect

Ever had the feeling of resentment when you open a glossy and see how perfectly shaped and figured the models are in them? Well, not that it’s anything shocking, but even the most beautiful are fixed, primed, shot, and eventually airbrushed. Disappointing isn't it.

Taking a look at Jessica Alba’s new calendar and Campari campaign would be a shocker. The 27 year old actress is just five months short of having delivered her first child, and yet the photographs have her portrayed as a hardcore sexy pinup girl.

Photographs shot by Mario Testino originally capture Alba’s softness and likeness. And however beautiful the airbrushed version might be, it doesn’t capture Alba’s gorgeous post maternity figure, voluptuous yet slimming all at the same time.

So what lesson are we supposed to take from this? That the unobtainable image is… well just that. Without the use of a good Mac, design and Photoshop, we’ll just have to settle for the real life image, which in my opinion just ain’t all that bad.

Recycle And Change Clothes

The lyrics of Grammy-winning producer and musician Pharrell Williams are coming true. Having entered into a partnership with New York based textile firm, Bionic Yarn, Williams will be mixing to a new beat- promoting environmentally sustainable fabrics, where yarn meets fibers from recycled plastic bottles.

Not only is Williams co-owner of the two year old company, as well as investor, he will be both representative and voice for the company that produces not only an assortment of bags and luggage but also women/men’s wear and home furnishing.

So what exactly does recycled fabric entail? Company research has found that 60 million plastic bottles go to waste on a daily basis. Thus, Bionic Yarn’s mission is to preserve and protect the environment in order to maximize the use of those every day substances. The technology going into the process also makes everything more durable along with giving it an extra luxurious feel.

It appears sustainably is finally catching on even in fashion. If this isn’t Green Talk, I don’t know what is.

Mellow Yellow, I Think Not

If we’ve heard it once, we’ve heard it twice, and it will probably bring in the New Year with us. Reminders of the credit crunch follow us from shop to shop and threaten us even in the privacy of our own homes when the mail arrives.

So how will we escape the gloom and depressing feeling as wallets get thinner, moods get darker, and closets get emptier? Bring on the color, says Pantone Color Institutes, a leader for providing colors to the textile and design industries. Could we think of a better way to rise with the dawn than with mimosa, the new vivacious tint for 2009.
Not only is it the color of a delicious breakfast bubbly cocktail, but also the illustrious flower of the same mimosa tree. Personally, who could go wrong with either?

Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of Pantone compliments that the color could just be what we are looking for, something symbolic with a feeling of warmth and shine. What more could we ask for.