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Kimberly Hendrix Prepares to Dazzle the Runways of Tampa Bay

In Designers, Events, Fashion on September 10, 2012 at 9:36 am

Vintage inspiration, recyled material and plenty of sparkle.  This perfect combination of ideas results in the stunning garments created by designer Kimberly Hendrix, which will grace our Tampa Bay runway later this month.  K. Hendrix beautifully detailed creations are handmade and feature intricate beading, embroidery and raw details, not to mention the fact that each piece is made with 100% reclaimed or recycled vintage materials of the highest quality.

After working as an interior designer for many years, Kimberly moved her great passion for art and immense creativity into the beautiful world of fashion.  Aside from her own stunning collections, Kimberly also co-designed a full runway collection for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, Fall 2008.  Kimberly’s stunning pieces have appeared on celebrities such as Zooey Deschanel, Courtney Love and Juliet Lewis.

The Fall 2012 collection features bold color, brilliant sparkle and delicate fabrics for a style experience that is truly miraculous.

If a picture says a thousand stylish words, I cannot imagine how perfectly stunning such pieces will appear on the runway later this month.  If I were you, I would make September 21st a top priority.

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Cultural Inspiration

In Fashion, Trends on August 22, 2012 at 1:00 pm

In the same way that a great musician should study many different cultures of music, such is the case for anyone interested or working in fashion.  This beautiful world we live in is full of amazing inspiration.  Imagine if designers could draw only from their own back yards?  I dare say we would all be facing an epic lack of options.

I recently returned from vacationing in the Smoky Mountains.  In the town of Cherokee, North Carolina I found a wide array of stunning tribal prints.  Featuring bold color and intricate detail, vivacious prints such as these will spice up a wardrobe beyond your wildest dreams.

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How do you accessorize this look?  Gold, turquoise and coral pieces look absolutely fantastic with tribal prints.  Perhaps you would rather rock a solid color.  In this case, let your hands be creative with an exciting nail design.  There are endless ways to experiment with this cultural trend.

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Now that I have showered you with delightful examples, dare to find your own inspiration from a culture that fascinates you.  Fashion is in the trees, the sea, and ancient architecture of centuries past.  You just have to look!

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Summer of Lace

In Fashion, Trends on July 23, 2012 at 3:26 pm

Feminine, beautiful and classic.  Lace has been a fashion staple since the 16th century.  Now, in the 21st century it has become as abundant in a variety of unique colors and flattering silhouettes.

The peplum top is a wonderfully popular variation this summer, bringing a bit of extra flair to a basic top.  I have recently purchased one in deep violet with a sweetheart neckline and wide straps.  I could describe it as nothing less than divine!

Lace Peplum Top in Aqua from Forever 21

Alexander McQueen Lace Peplum Top

Stella McCartney Lace Peplum Top

Delicate Pink Peplum Top from Oasap

In the hot summer months, we rarely feel like adding a jacket to our daily ensemble.  Various life factors, however may sometimes make it necessary.  Perhaps your professional life requires it on a daily basis.  Aside from dress codes, I can tell you that I freeze every time I step foot inside a restaurant, even if the thermometer outside does read 90 degrees.  For any of these instances, a stunning lace jacket will always be stylish, practical and fun.

Lace Military Jacket in Nude

Black Lace Bolero Jacket

Zip Lace Jacket from Papaya

Perhaps a full lace dress is a bit too Victorian for you, but you prefer just a peek.  There is a wide variety of wonderful accessories to bring just a touch of lace to your life.

Bright Pump with Lace Detail

Wide Lace Headband

Prada Black Lace Satchel

With so many amazing choices, there is no excuse for hiding your feminine side this summer.  Time to get shopping, Tampa.  I want to see some lace!

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Mother Of All That Is Fashion: Paris

In Fashion, Trends on June 22, 2012 at 9:42 am

One week ago, I solidified a plan to go to Paris, France for my birthday the year 2015.  With nearly three years to prepare, I have already become a bit obsessed.  What do the stylish ones wear on the streets of Paris?  What do the hotels look like?  This is one Stylista who plans to be fully prepared for her epic trip to the City of Light.

Chanel.  This is the very first word that comes to mind when I think of Paris.  For the recent Resort collection, Karl Lagerfeld drew inspiration from Marie Antoinette and the Palace of Versailles.  Chanel and the Palace of Versailles in one sentence?  Simply amazing!

Photo: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com for Style.com

Photo: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com for Style.com

Photo: Yannis Vlamos / GoRunway.com for Style.com

Obviously, some pieces may be more practical than others, but when in Paris is there really such a thing as too much extravagance, too bold a style?  My thought would be no.

Speaking of Marie Antoinette, I have discovered a hotel suite that has more than taken my breath away.  Hotel Seven has a different and more beautiful theme in each of its rooms.  The Marie Antoinette suite grabbed my attention from the name, but the aesthetic stole my heart.  Large white couches and pink pillows, twinkle lights above a canopy bed….it is too beautiful to describe appropriately with words!

Hotel Seven: The Marie Antoinette Suite

Hotel Seven: The Marie Antoinette Suite

Hotel Seven: The Marie Antoinette Suite

Hotel Seven: The Marie Antoinette Suite

These two fabulous aspects are but a droplet in the sparkling sea that is Paris.  There are hundreds more amazing designers to shop at, quaint cafes, beautiful architecture, and of course, The Louvre.  Art has always been a part of fashion, and there is no better place to experience it.

Dior Paris

Christian Louboutin Paris

Palace of Versailles

Le Petit Linc

The Louvre

Where is your dream destination to experience fashion?  You better believe, Tampa Bay that I will be bringing a few pieces of Paris home with me…if I can bring myself to get back on the flight home, that is.

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Re-Invent the “Earth Tone”

In Fashion, Trends on May 18, 2012 at 7:50 am

The fact that the fashion industry defines the “Earth Tone” color scheme as flat, muted versions of brown, tan, orange and green is not something that I particularly agree with.  The Earth is a magnificent, beautiful place filled with bright, vibrant colors to be described as anything but flat.

Think of the breathtaking aqua waters of Tahiti or Mexico.  A bright, floaty dress in this color would be nothing less than summer perfection.  Aqua is such an amazing color that seems to brighten the skin of just about any tone.   I dare say it is timeless.

Tahiti

Penny Ruffle Dress from reddressboutique.com

What about a bright pink which can be found blooming on the flowers of any tropical oasis?  A stunning pump in this color would be the perfect accent to breath life into a nude colored dress, or simply mix it in with an already bright ensemble for a more eye-catching effect.

Tropical Flowers

Pink Crystal Pumps

There are so many other choices:  Lime, coral, fiery red.  All of these colors that we so adore are derived from nature.  This summer, why not re-invent the “Earth Tone” pallet and strut yourself to a bright, playful season.

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IMAGINE…

In Events, Fashion, Updates on May 10, 2012 at 9:36 am

Every great fashion designer in the world has been trained by great professionals.

As a former student of the International Academy of Design & Technology–Tampa, I know that this institution offers just that: Great Professionals. As students perfect their skills in various aspects of fashion design, they are given the incredible opportunity of showcasing their own brilliant ideas in the annual IMAGINE fashion show. A spot in most big runway events would normally cost a design house a minimum of $50,000. For the IMAGINE fashion show, creativity is the only requirement for a designer to experience the pride and glamour of participation in a big runway show.

This year’s show will be held on Saturday, May 19th at the Mainsail Conference Center in Tampa. A VIP pre-party will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the extravagant runway show. Miss St. Petersburg USA 2013, Collins Medlin, will serve as the event emcee. Following a theme surrounding the uncertainty of the Mayan calendar and 2012, 44 students will present approximately 200 incredible designs ranging from beachwear to bridal.

With a plethora of exciting fashion, beautiful models and intriguing themes, the 27th annual IMAGINE fashion show presented by IADT is one event that must not be missed!

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Fedoras, Glasses and Fur, Oh My!

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on March 8, 2011 at 5:11 am

With all of the hustle and bustle, glitz and glam surrounding New York Fashion Week, it would be impossible not to notice a collection or two.  While fall often brings about one too many black sweaters and wool peacoats, Malandrino defies the meaning of dull with the breathtaking Fall 2011 collection.  Though Tampa will soon begin to sizzle, pushing us into light cotton dresses and embellished tanks, it is never too early to begin thinking about next fall’s wardrobe.

The Fall 2011 Malandrino collection offers a unique mix of hollywood-esque furs mixed with over-sized eyeglasses.  Some looks portrayed the notion of Jean Harlow meets nerd.  Others utilized fedora-like hats to complete the look.  One beautifully draped purple print gown is featured on a lovely model with long flowing hair and over-sized rims.  Another delightful piece, also in purple is fully accessorized with both glasses and hat.  With several exquisite looks utilizing rich furs, seductive jewel tones and unique accessories, the Fall 2011 collection from Malandrino leaves little to be desired.

The moral?  Whether it be summer or fall, don’t be afraid to kick it up a notch with an unexpected accessory or two.

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The Golden Globes: What Was Your Favorite?

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on January 18, 2011 at 3:06 am

Everyone knows that our only motivation for taking time out of our busy schedules to watch an award show is the fashion.  At this year’s Golden Globes, those looking forward to flashy gowns popping with color may have been slightly disappointed with the surprising quantity of beige.  There were a few, however who saved the night in rich fabrics fully saturated with exquisite color.

The beautiful Mila Kunis was nothing short of a live, shining emerald in a one-shoulder Vera Wang piece.  The color complemented her flawless skin perfectly, and intricate draping sculpted her adorable shape.  Also from Vera Wang, Sofia Vergara appeared in a fiery pink gown accented with a black belt at the waist.  The gathered bodice and draped train provided a unique flair perfect for this event.

Of course, I am not insinuating in the least that bright colors are the only option for high style.  Eva Longoria was absolutely breathtaking in a black Zac Posen gown.  With a deep cut version of a sweetheart neckline and a matching black sash to cinch the already fitted waist, this dress was simply divine.  In addition, beige is not always bland when worn like Carrie Underwood in sparkling Badgley Mischka Couture.

To each her own: What was your favorite?

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New Year, New Style

In Designers, Fashion on December 31, 2010 at 4:49 pm

What are you doing New Year’s Eve?  As you descend upon a new year full of dazzling hope and unlimited potential, bid a joyous goodbye to 2010 at one last fabulous party.  Whether it be a small intimate gathering with close friends or an extravagant soiree, be sure to enter the new year in style.

Dazzle the night in a sequined, yet elegant party dress such as the Tadashi Shoji piece in plum.  With sequined mesh over satin in a perfect fit, this dress will certainly grab attention at your holiday dinner.  For  a more youthful feel, the floral skirt cocktail dress from Sue Wong is perfection.  Shimmering silk flowers are accented with sparkling crystal and bead detail for a look of dazzling delicacy.

Wherever you may find yourself this New Year’s Eve, make it one to remember with amazing friends and even more amazing fashion.  Raise a bubbling toast as you welcome a stylish New Year!

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Unintentionally Chic

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on November 11, 2010 at 5:03 am

I work in an office that likes to offer themed dress days as the holidays near.  Today happened to be ’80s day.  As I passed one of my co-workers in the hall, I could not help but turn to admire her ensemble.  While I am quite certain that her intention was to look as ridiculous as possible, she accomplished quite the opposite.  She was in fact, unintentionally chic.

Leopard print often bores me in traditional tan and black.  Green, however is a completely different story.  Over these fabulous leggings, she wore a denim mini and neon yellow top.  Her long brown hair was tied to the side, perfectly completing the theme.  All throughout the day, I could not help but think of her fabulous accident.  In fact, she looked as if she had stepped out of a Betsey Johnson ad.

My experience today has brought me to the conclusion that fashion is such a powerful and never-ending force, we may not always need to try as hard as we think.  This is certainly not to say that we should just close our eyes and put together whatever happens to fall out of our closet.  However, if we just loosen up a little, we may find new and exciting fashion possibilities beyond our wildest dreams.