fashionweektampabay

Archive for July, 2010|Monthly archive page

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Luxury From the Road to the Runway

In Events, Fashion, Updates on July 30, 2010 at 9:19 am

We’re just a few months away from the Bay area’s most anticipated fashion event of the year, Fashion Week Tampa Bay! This year will not only be showcasing established and emerging fashion and accessories designers from Tampa Bay and surrounding areas, but they are bringing the speed of luxury from the road to the runway. Audi has been named presenting sponsor for this year’s Tampa Bay Fashion Week, Sept. 22-25, 2010.

When it comes to style, speed and performance, Audi and fashion go hand and hand. Every detail has its purpose. Whether it’s a button on a pair of jeans or a dramatic open panorama sunroof on a 2010 Audi Q7, the design concept and expressive details that go into the ‘art’ has a connection that is logical and natural.

The company’s commitment to their owners, employees, and environment hold the same core beliefs of Fashion Week Tampa Bay…giving back to the community. Each year Fashion Week Tampa Bay benefits organizations that are committed to the well-being of and service to our world, our children, our health, our future and our dreams. This year Audi will be in full-speed ahead as the week of style leverages the Bay area’s talented individuals and gives back to the community.

This reminds me of my favorite quote by a legendary designer Coco Chanel. “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening”. The Audi brand and Tampa Bay Fashion Week partnership expresses the true meaning of this quote.

So as we mark our calendars for a week-long event of parties, runway shows, boutique vendor exhibits and fashion-focused activities throughout Tampa Bay, Audi will be bringing its luxury car presence to the festivities!

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All About the Shoulder

In Fashion, Trends on July 29, 2010 at 7:46 pm

Summer fashion is all about showing a little skin.  However, we do not all have to flaunt “daisy dukes with bikinis on top” to accomplish this.  With still plenty of time to try some fabulous summer threads, there is a slightly modest, yet still sexy way of showing off your most glowing asset.

The one-shoulder look is certainly not a new idea.  In fact, one could even argue that inspiration was born as early as Marilyn Monroe as she often posed in a seductive manner with her top pulled down on one shoulder.  For Summer 2010, the look has taken on a whole new approach to glamour.

The always fun and youthful brand, Arden B is all over this trend with a romantic top with smocked hem and tiered side ruffle.  The neckline curves beautifully away from one shoulder, providing a perfect amount of sex appeal for this flirty summer top.

Meanwhile, for a more upscale look, the land of Marchesa is always blooming with endless possibilities. This brilliant blue mini dress offers intrigue and beauty with intricately designed texture over tightly wrapped silk.  The sculpted bust reveals a perfect, sexy shape for one exceptional night.

Whether headed to a club or fabulous charity event, there is absolutely a dazzling one shoulder piece that must be worn.  Make the most of your summer and let that shoulder go!

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Handmade Hendrix

In Designers on July 28, 2010 at 8:59 am

We welcome fashion designer, Kimberly Hendrix to our Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2010 runway!

Over the past few years, Kimberly has used her skills from being an interior designer, vintage collector and seamstress into becoming a talented fashion designer. She has participated in many fashion events like GenArt and Nolcha and has also co-designed a full runway collection for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2008. Kimberly has even appeared as herself on the TLC reality show: bikini or bust, where she helped her friend and designer, Ashley Paige create a 28 look collection for Mercedes-Benz in just two weeks! Recently she tried returning to the television screen by applying for Project Runway season 8. However, after becoming a finalist then being denied on the fashion design reality show – she decided to put together her own project! Starting July 29th she’ll go head-to-head with Project Runway season 8 by taking on each challenge, record her design process then post her results in her video blog for fans to compare and vote on the show’s challenge winner or Kimberly.

She will be showing her Spring 2011 collection this September in Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2010. According to Kimberly, it will be her most complete and stunning collection to date. I’m getting super anxious and can’t wait to see what she will bring to our 2010 runway! If it’s anything like her previous collections, everyone will be drooling! Whether it’s a ready-to-wear or couture collection, each of her creations are handmade and one-of-a-kind, as it should be. Each creation features intricate beading, embroidery, incredible detailing, raw edges and more fabulous features that will make any fashionista weak to her knees! On her blog “Keeping up with K. Hendrix”, she shares some of the inspirations behind her spring 2011 collection: vintage Paris, ballet, and a touch of circus.

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A Girl’s “New” Best Friend!

In Fashion, Trends, Updates on July 27, 2010 at 1:50 am

It has been agreed upon that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. The luxurious effect a diamond has once brushed across your collar-bone, or coasted down your finger -preferably by a handsome prince-  it sparkles in your eyes to enhance the reason why it is wonderful to be a women, despite pregnancy, cramping, and menstrual mood-swings. However, over time women have befriended more than just a diamond. Shoes, the little black dress and the handbag. I refer to my handbag as my first aid kit. Not because I have everything from a nail file to pens to a phone charger in it, but because without my handbag I feel as if I forgot to put on a vital piece of clothing before leaving the house. A handbag is #3 on my list of things mandatory to wear, after a bra and panties. That’s how much I rely on my handbag and I’ve met alot of women that feel the same way as I do.

This is why when I came across the ultimate diamond house and found out that they added a new friend to the group, I had to share it with all the Fashion Week Tampa Bay friends. Tiffany & Co. has handbags!

I know…same reaction I had- grin from ear to ear and loud shouts like I won the lottery.

The handbag collection is designed by Elsa Peretti, an Italian jewelry designer. She is known for the infamous ‘tear drop’ necklace at Tiffany & Co. She has incorporated timeless Tiffany pieces that are reincarnated as chain handles on evening bags, a crystal-bow brooch is brought back to life as a motif on a clutch and a six-prong engagement ring setting is the basis for a twist-lock clasp…I do!

The enticement of the handbags trimmings doesn’t stop there. The soft color palette, which portrays rich jewel tones like garnet and violet,  also offers neutral tones like black pearl and camel stones that will pair well with many eveningwear pieces.

I don’t recommend sporting this handbag while shopping at the mall with your girlfriends. This handbag is definitely an exclusive item in your closet and should only be taken out on special occasions. However, they offer a few casual handbags such as a backpack and a shopper tote.

Thank you Tiffany’s for catering to every woman’s needs!

To see the full collection, visit www.tiffany.com

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All Hail McQueen!

In Designers, Fashion on July 24, 2010 at 11:59 am

Leave it to Haute Couture for always taking my breath away. After writing my last blog post, I fell in love with fashion all over again! I felt a major “fashion craving” and what was on the menu, you may ask? Three fashion magazines to read: Elle, Vogue and Marie Claire. Soon after reading and admiring everything these magazines offer to eager fashion lovers like me (oh, how I felt like a fat kid with cake), I couldn’t help to think about the talented designers who create magic in magazines and on the runway. One fashion designer in particular who will always be missed: Alexander McQueen.

Alexander McQueen shows were known for their emotional power and energy on the runway. His collections always stood out beautifully and romantically but still had a contemporary nature about them. I was blown away admiring McQueen’s last collection! Like always, it was stunning! He successfully combined elements of tradition with modernity and strength with fragility. The collection is inspired by the Old Masters of painting… Oh yes, I’m in heaven! If I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again, I love the deep inspirations and meanings behind a designer’s work especially if it’s related to art. The pieces were rich and filled with color and texture. Each piece is unique, as was McQueen. All of the patterns were cut by McQueen before he died on February 11, 2010 then the fashion house had to complete what was left behind for Paris Fashion Week.

I’ve added something to my birthday wish list, these heels in the video below! I’ve fallen head over heels in love with… well, all of them! I didn’t say my birthday wish list was small.. by the way, it’s August 8th! The heels with the embroidered multi-color crystals over a gold bottom (in the video, these are matched with the gold dress that’s above) – my favorite! The feather heels – also on the top of my list! Love, love, love all of them! I’m so head over heels in love with these stunning McQueen shoes!

This video is all around breathtaking – beautiful music, stunning pieces, shoes to die for and overall capturing the true beauty of Alexander McQueen’s work. All hail McQueen!

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Windows to the Soul: Couture Style!

In Trends on July 22, 2010 at 12:06 pm

If those fabulous baby blues (or browns) truly are the windows to the soul, why would you ever neglect them when making fashion choices?  I was recently reminded of the importance of eye fashion when I noticed a beautiful co-worker sporting bold and unique colors each and every day.  From deep amethyst to seafoam green, this young woman knows exactly how to transform her “windows” into a couture boutique entrance.

Many women tend to think a bit too conservatively with regard to eye make-up, fearing that bright colors may give the essence of a clown.  Au contrair!  Nothing is sexier than a bright plum or shocking aqua to draw attention to those peepers.

While some runway looks may be a bit over-the-top, they can be used for inspiration. You may not wish to look as cartoon-like as this Dior model, but that does not mean you should shy away from bright pink shadow.  Why not try some false lashes to enhance things a little?  The key is determining the difference between bold and ridiculous and dancing right on the edge.

For this peacock inspired look, the timid may use a more subtle false lash.  If you dare, go ahead and rock the spotted one!  Just keep the colorful shadow to the eye area only, and you will have a look of perfection appropriate for everyday use.

This look is absolutely perfect.  Resembling an exotic princess, the model wears metallic jewel tones on her eyes.  The look is vibrant and stunning, yet realistic.  With glowing skin and sparkling pink lips, a beauty choice such as this will surely bring out the princess within.

Whether your style is ultra feminine or a bit more edgy, make sure you don’t allow those big sparkling eyes to leave the house undressed.

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Showing the Inside Out: The Graphic Cuff

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 20, 2010 at 3:47 pm

Over the years, jeans have become a bit more complex. We used to have very few options when it came to jean styles-boot cut or loose fit. However, through inspiration from music and celebrities, the turn of the millenium has brought us more jean styles we could possibly even ask for. I actually find it challenging to shop for jeans now-a-days. Especially when shopping at Gap. Their options are endless…stretch, jeggings, bootcut, skinny, curvy, long and lean.

The newest edition to the jean library at Gap has you taking what’s on the inside and showing it out; the graphic cuff jeans. You would cuff the bottom of your jeans to reveal a whimsical bird graphic. This means, you will be drawing  attention to your ankles so I recommend not only pairing your new graphic cuff jeans with fabulous shoes but always remembering to accessorize so consider some trendy ankle bracelets. The graphic cuff jeans can be dressed up or dressed down.

So, on your next shopping adventure, be sure to visit a Gap near you and explore the galore of jean styles, especially the graphic cuff jeans!

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The Future Fashionista’s of the World

In Designers, Fashion on July 19, 2010 at 1:30 am

You can always count on generation X, Y, and Z to indulge in the world of Gucci, Prada and Fendi. However, fashion power houses are looking out their windows into today and into the future of the next suggested generation, Generation Alpha. Mom’s, now you and your bambino can sport luxury clothing while out on the town.

Designer Silvia Venturini Fendi, of Fendi has transformed the runway into a scene out of Huckleberry Finn, with a forest decor, wooden hut, blue sky and the sound of tweeting birds- no, not the tweeters in the front row either. As the children strut down the runway debuting Fendi’s new spring children’s wear collection, they were accessorized with fishing poles and rabbit tails.

For the Fendi girls’ collection natural fabrics in a palette of soft colors like pearl gray, powder pink and chalk-white were used to match the summer hues of yellow, pink and green. Small checkered bloomers, floral print dresses and soft pale color tops make up the girls’ line.

As for the boys, army green, sand beige, pearl grey and powder blue checked shirts and Harrington-style bombers give a casual and playful inspiration to the boys’ collection. However, I wouldn’t suggest letting your little one actually roll around outside for it’s still Fendi, therefore, it’s not cheap.

So moms, consider starting your little ‘tot’ early in life by introducing them to friends like Christian Dior and Fendi.

Currently, the Fendi children’s wear is only sold overseas and exclusively through Jamari International of New York. To view the spring collection visit www.jamariltd.com

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Material Girl

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 14, 2010 at 5:47 am

I remember as a little girl, cutting the finger tips off of my gloves, taking my mothers mini cross-body handbag and tying a knot at the end because it was way too long for me. Also, I recall dressing in layers and looking as if I threw everything in my closet on -this was during the 80’s. However, as history repeats itself, so does fashion history.  The 80’s style is back and being transmitted through a true 80’s stylista herself, Madonna.

Her new fashion line, Material Girl portrays some of the singers most memorable looks such as lace tops, tulle skirts, like a virgin-bustier tops that trickle back from the “Express Yourself” video.  Looking for a “Papa Don’t Preach” look? There’s a leather jacket, denim jeans and striped top.  However, the collection is not just a trip down memory lane for Madonna’s greatest fashion hits, it’s actually a reflection of a modern-day ‘Material Girl’, Lourdes Leon, Madonna’s daughter which is working closely together with her mother on the development of the junior line.

The line will be sold in 200 Macy’s throughout the United States. Material Girl will launch August 3rd and then will reveal the face for the collection in which Madonna hand-picked herself to resemble a true modern-day ‘Material Girl’. Although they are keeping lips sealed on who the celebrity teen face for the collection will be, you can visit www.materialgirlcollection.com to get a preview of the collection. The photos only reveal from the neck down but it’s clear that the ‘Material Girl’ has blonde hair…umm maybe Taylor Swift or Ashley Tisdale?

The Material Girl collection includes apparel such as, denim motorcycle jackets, tulle miniskirts, boyfriend blazers, lots of lace and crop tops. Footwear, handbags, hair accessories and jewelry. Oh, and there is a bodysuit within the collection-now that’s an opinion-maker.

“A material girl is a girl that is interested in fashion and interested in music and interested in fun. She has a sense of humor and is an adventurous human being.” Madonna, WWD.

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The Perfect Shoe

In Designers, Fashion on July 14, 2010 at 5:25 am

Marilyn once made it quite clear that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.”  With that said, I think it is safe to say that a perfect heel is not far behind.  If your average stiletto is a friend, consider a Louboutin heel your guardian angel.  Often seen on the perfectly pedicured feet of popular starlets, Christian Louboutin heels are often seen in sky-high versions of satin and in the fanciest form, embellished with dazzling crystals.

From the most recent collection, a stiletto bootie features a sheer upper with flame-like crystal detail.  Unlike many shoe designers, Louboutin does not stop dazzling when the heel is reached.  Fabulously colored crystals envelope the heel, which also reveals the famous red color on the inside.  Such intense sparkle may be meant for evening, but I would suggest showing this incredible piece off for any daily activity.

From the same collection, a stiletto sandal features shocking pink and metallic gold with similar crystals decorating the heel.  Perfect for that hot new night spot, this shoe will certainly be the center of attention.

If sexy heights and exquisite details strike your fancy, there is absolutely no better choice than Christian Louboutin.  Never ignore your diamonds, but make sure your other friend gets an invite, as well.