fashionweektampabay

Archive for the ‘Fashion’ Category

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Get VERTICAL for Fashion Week!

In Fashion, Trends on September 9, 2010 at 9:48 am

There was a time when I believed all high-fashion magazines had to be New York-based. To my surprise, that all changed the first time I scanned the pages of VERTICAL Tampa Bay.  This local high-fashion wonder includes stunning ads for high-end department stores such as Neiman Marcus, breathtaking layouts  for editorials, invigorating articles and photo shoots that are more than worthy of any Conde Nast publication.

The most recent summer issue features a wonderful swimsuit editorial along with beauty tips, refreshing recipes and designer ads so vibrantly colorful, you may think you are dreaming.  This virtual magazine is truly amazing and even offers a complimentary subscription.

The face behind the fabulous?  Leslie Joy Ickowitz, a distinguished member of the Tampa Bay publishing community is the driving force behind Tampa’s first virtual magazine and certainly possesses the talent and ambition to set the fashion standard for Tampa Bay.

With delightful pages of fashion to accompany the much anticipated Fashion Week, I can’t help but wonder: Could Tampa Bay be the new NYC?  Take a look for yourself, and get VERTICAL!

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Fashion’s Night Out

In Events, Fashion, Updates on September 8, 2010 at 10:46 am

This Friday, Sept. 10, 2010, join me and the Fashion Week Tampa Bay team at Neiman Marcus at International Plaza as we participate in the biggest shopping night ever, Fashion’s Night Out! This one spectacular night of celebrations will awaken your fashion senses.

Fashion’s Night Out started in 2009 in NYC to promote shopping in this challenging economy. This year, almost 1,000 retailers will participate in the second edition of Fashion’s Night Out. The night will be filled with celebrity appearances and special events.

Although this event is NYC-based, other cities are adopting their own version of this event. Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus in Tampa will be hosting their own version of Fashion’s Night Out with activities and celebrity appearances. To see a full list of participating retailers visit www.fashionsnightout.com

As you shop the night away be sure to purchase a Fashion’s Night Out official t-shirt, The FNO t-shirt’s proceeds will benefit the NYC Aids Fund. You are making more than a purchase, you’re making a choice to help an industry that touches us all. This is a party with a purpose and everyone’s invited.

To add even more shopping fun to the Fashion’s Night Out festivities, Fashion Week Tampa Bay will be having a ONE DAY ONLY sale this Friday night. A limited number of general admission tickets will be available for only $45! Click here on Friday, Sept. 10.  Happy shopping and see you out at the biggest shopping night ever, Friday, Sept. 10, 2010!

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Freeway Fashion: Style Saviors

In Fashion, Trends on September 7, 2010 at 9:26 am

When it comes to style, even the most fashion forward can use a little help from time to time.  Have you ever wondered how that woman seen at every single event always looks like polished perfection?  However convincing she may be, it is quite likely that she does not actually have an infallible sense of style.  In fact, she may very well be a client of Freeway Fashion.

Lead by the incredibly talented Laura Hunt, who has succeeded in everything from modeling to consulting, Freeway Fashion offers expert styling services which include color and wardrobe analysis, personal shopping and complete makeovers. Laura remains at the forefront of the styling industry, traveling to Fashion Weeks across the country and abroad to scout the latest in designer clothing.

What sets Freeway Fashion apart from other image consultants is the fact that they do not just pack up and leave once the lip gloss is applied.  Freeway Fashion comes complete with an expert team of image consultants, journalists, marketing professionals, photographers and videographers to expose your fashion event in the brightest possible light.

Joining this year’s proud list of sponsors for Fashion Week Tampa Bay, Freeway Fashion will be coming to Tampa Bay for what is sure to be an unforgettable event.  Why not contact Laura Hunt for some assistance in creating an unforgettable look for yourself?

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From the Classroom to the Runway

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Updates on September 3, 2010 at 9:16 am

We’re just weeks away from Tampa Bay’s most anticipated fashion event of the year, Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2010! As our featured designers work long hours to finalize their Spring 2011 collections, the Fashion Week Tampa Bay blog begins the festivities virtually by introducing this year’s designers. This week the spotlight shines on Terri Funaro. A native to New York, Terri started her career as an assistant designer at Vassarette. Soon after she began designing for Vision Apparel to discover that her true love was in bridal. Her designs have been featured in major publications such as, WWD, Seventeen Magazine, Modern Bride (cover), and Brides Magazine.

Although her passion is bridal gowns, her primary goal is to inspire her students. The past 10 years she has been an instructor in the fashion department at the International Academy of Design & Technology in Tampa. She guides her students and encourages them to have their sketches come to life while helping them define their own personal style. She mentors her students to follow the path from an idea to a finished, well-made, beautiful product.

Terri Funaro creates clothes that accent women’s best features. She feels that clothes should make women feel beautiful both inside and out. As she showcases her Spring 2011 collection in FWTB on Friday, Sept. 24 in the Fashion Tent at the Armature , be sure not to miss her evening wear and bridal separates gracefully strut down the runway leaving you feeling beautiful…right from your seats.

For more information on Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2010 and tickets visit www.fashionweektampabay.com

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Uncover Your Style Personality!

In Fashion on September 2, 2010 at 3:31 am

I have great news to share… I got a new part-time job at Ann Taylor LOFT! Thanks to the LOFT stylists, their clothes can easily create a well-rounded fabulous and very stylish wardrobe – so my job will be advising clients on style! The Associate Style Journal is my “insider” guide to the season to reinforce the trends, understand the latest LOFT collection, and a chance for me to express my personal style. Below are my answers to the journal’s style questionnaire which helps you uncover your style personality. Use this as an opportunity to share your own answers and any styling insights for fellow fashionistas!

STYLE QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Describe your style in two words – Downtown Hipster

2. Who is your style inspiration? Currently… Taylor Momsen who plays Jenny on Gossip Girl! Totally love her fashionable punk rock style on the show! Honestly everyone on Gossip Girl has an iconic fashion sense; love them all and certainly something worthy of gossip! Only three more weeks until the new season! Can’t wait!!!

3. What would you never leave the house without putting on? An enormous crazy ring and my YSL Peach Passion lipstick.

4. Who is your favorite singer, group or band? Oh man, it’s difficult for me to decide on just one… Plastiscines, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Santigold are a few of my favorite bands/singers.

5. What is your favorite beauty/grooming product? A yucky facial mask that does wonders!

6. What do you like to do in your free time? Let’s see… My free time is usually spent on sewing, painting, making jewelry, writing and spending time with friends.

7. Who are your favorite fashion designers? Marc Jacobs, Chanel (of course, what would fashion be without Chanel?), YSL, Rag & Bone and Anna Sui… just to name a few!

8. What is your go-to layering piece? A black blazer! It’s an easy way to transform a plain t-shirt and pair of dark jeans into a fashionable confident look.

9. What fall item do you want to splurge on? BOOTS! I want, no.. need a new pair of “don’t mess with me” leather boots like these Christian Louboutin studded boots!

10. I live LOFT everyday by… living, loving and being fashion! I’m a modern girl who has very high goals and won’t stop striving until they’re achieved. I live LOFT everyday by being fashionable, caring and strong.

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Nina Verklas Brings Exotic Beauty to Fashion Week

In Designers, Events, Fashion on August 26, 2010 at 4:09 am

As Fashion Week approaches, the entire industry seems to morph into a wildly exciting jungle.  After browsing the fabulous collections of Tampa Bay’s own Nina Verklas, creator of Bambina by NV, I can think of no better way to describe it.

A safari theme has been used in fashion for seasons upon seasons.  However, after viewing the Resort 2010 collection from Bambina by NV, I am completely convinced of her fresh, unique vision.

One gown is completely fit for a goddess and features an exotic tribal print in luxurious fabric.  The skirt features an overlay of  shimmering gold, pleated for magnificent texture.

Bambina by NV

Images courtesy of Courtney Rodwell

Another look magically combines comfort and sex appeal in one amazingly fluid jumpsuit.  With an exotic animal print, the loose-fitting piece is cinched at the waist with a beautifully detailed belt and attached at the neck with a fabulous wooden necklace.

Bambina by NV

Images courtesy of Courtney Rodwell

Just when I thought the senses could not be tickled any further by this exotic collection, an adorable hooded dress seems to take Little Red Riding Hood from a wooded forest to a tropical jungle.  The dress reveals delicate pleats at the bust with a peek of green plaid at the sides.  Just under the bust, nude plaid transitions to the wonderfully feminine skirt.  The most exciting feature, and the reason for the fairytale reference?  In place of the usual shoulder straps sits a beautifully draped hood.

Also to be admired is a wonderfully draped pant in shimmering sand worn with a delicate sheer top which features a bit of texture and seductive plunge neckline.

Bambina by NV

Images courtesy of Courtney Rodwell

These wonderful pieces from her Resort 2010 collection offer a mere glimpse of the many creative talents of designer Nina Verklas, who will be among the featured designers at Fashion Week Tampa Bay.  In just a few short weeks, Nina will grace the runways of Tampa Bay with a whole new world of incredible fashion featuring her new 2011 Spring/Summer collection.

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Share Your Wear: Real Runway Moments

In Fashion, Updates on August 25, 2010 at 10:12 pm

When shopping for the perfect dress to wear to an upcoming black tie affair or the best birthday suit ever, we tend to bring our girlfriends with us for their feedback while turning the dressing room into a consultation area. Modern-day shopping is commonly done virtually and usually solo nowadays. That’s why RenttheRunway.com has launched Real Moments and a Product Review Tab on their website so that women can virtually share their feedback on their purchase.

Real Moments is a video testimonials page where users have the ability to upload video feedback. Women can share their personal experiences on  how the size fits and the process of renting the runway.

The Product Review Tab allows users to share their comments about a particular product, including how the dress fit and if they’d recommend the product to others. Shoppers are also given the option to choose their height and body type so women can compare to similar body types. What body type are you? Hourglass? Pear-shaped?  Full bust? Slender? Share it on renttherunway.com!

Real Runway Moments will make the online shopping experience as similar as possible to the in-store shopping experience, allowing shoppers to interact virtually through video and the Product Review Tabs. So ladies, after renting that perfect dress for your next upcoming event (maybe Fashion Week Tampa Bay?)  share your picks with your virtual girlfriends.

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Chuck Taylor Reincarnated

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on August 21, 2010 at 8:33 am

Converse was once just a ordinary canvas sneaker with a rubber sole. They were first produced in 1917 and called  the “All-star”, until being popularized by professional basketball player Chuck Taylor, which soon made the sneaker known as the ‘Chuck Taylor’ or ‘Chucks’. After years of the traditional black canvas, rubber sole with the Converse star logo on the side, the Chucks have been reincarnated with some funk.

While window shopping at my favorite shoe department: Nordie’s, I came across these all black canvas sneaker with an all black toe and a studded tongue. As I examined every detail on this trendy sneaker, I noticed a familiar star logo… OMG…these are Chuck Taylors. It didn’t stop there, Converse’s new collection had color, glitter and much more. So, I did what any shoe lover would do and tried them all on.

I tried a grey and baby pink ruffle slip on Chuck. The canvas was grey, they had no laces and pink ruffles trimming the shoe lace loops. They were very pretty and feminine. After trying on other sneakers in hot pink, glitter, studded, low and high-top, I came across the ultimate Chuck Taylor. An ‘XX Hi’ knee-high sneaker. This knee high shaft updates a classic lace-up style designed with a back zip entry for easy on-and-off wear. Talk about taking sneakers to the next level.

After driving my shoe guy Victor crazy, I decided to go with the all black canvas, black toe and studded tongue Converse. However, I still have my eye on those ‘XX Hi’ knee high sneakers. That will be on next week’s shopping list!

For more Converse styles visit www.converse.com or www.nordstrom.com

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Her Candle Remains

In Designers, Fashion on August 20, 2010 at 8:31 pm

There would be no fashion evolution without inspiration.  While designers may look to architecture, art and even nature, what will inspire the rest of us?  Fashion icons have existed throughout history, from Marie Antoinette to Lady GaGa.  Amongst them all, my personal favorite and most deserving of the title will always be Marilyn Monroe.  From simple accessories to sequined gowns, it would be hard to find a piece of fashion that does not include a piece of her soul.

The other day I came across a fashion editorial in which the lovely model wore some embellished Cat’s Eye glasses.  Where had I seen them before?  Marilyn wore them ever so perfectly in “How to Marry a Millionaire“.  Appearing innocently sexy in the twinkling glasses, today’s designers clearly took some notes.

Remember that sheer Versace gown that put Jennifer Lopez on the map?  The fabric may have been different, but the low-cut front certainly seems familiar.  Marilyn was a vision in gold, clearly setting the standard for revealing evening wear.

As if subtle inspiration were not enough, Dolce & Gabbana built an entire collection around the star for Fall 2009.  Showcasing the beautiful face across white silk, the collection served as a breathtaking tribute.

With so many endless possibilities, why not breathe a little Marilyn into your wardrobe?  Contrary to pop music, her candle will never burn out.

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How to Save on Back to School Shopping

In Events, Fashion, Trends on August 20, 2010 at 7:39 pm

It’s that time of the year again for pencils, books and fresh new gear for the new school year. However, back to school shopping can really take a toll on your budget. So I have came up with some smart savings strategies that have worked for me.

Start by taking inventory of what you already own. As I went through my closet, I couldn’t believe what I discovered. I found clothes I have only worn once, clothes that needed to be thrown out years ago -because they were from high school- and clothes that still had the tags on them. I thought to myself all those times I said I had to go shopping because I have nothing to wear and I had clothes still with the tags on them, ugh! After sorting through your closet and bagging up those tired old clothes from many seasons ago, take a trip to your local consignment shops.

Plato’s Closet, a local consignment shop takes gently worn clothing for exchange of cash. Not only will you receive some extra money for your back to school shopping fund, but they have great low prices on well known brands such as Ed Hardy and Bubblegum, that have been worn either a few times or known at all.

Along with consignment shopping, consider swapping clothes with your friends. Ever find yourself falling in love with your best friend’s leather jacket and repeatedly asking to borrow it? Do a clothes swap, I’m sure she fell in love with something you own as well.

Although if alternative shopping options such as Plato’s closet or fashion exchange with your girlfriends just isn’t for you or not enough to complete your first semester fall collection, then hit the mall. Department stores like Macy’s and JCPenney’s are holding great sales for consumers who missed the no-tax weekend. Although you still have to pay the tax, Macy’s is offering $10 off when you spend $50 and up to $50 off when you spend $200. You are actually saving more with a sale like this then a ‘no-tax’ promotion. Also, Payless BOGO sale (Buy One, Get One ) is 50% off everything in stock.

So the sales are out there fashionistas but they won’t last forever. Most sales end this weekend so don’t miss out on the back to school shopping savings for your new back to school gear!