fashionweektampabay

Archive for the ‘Trends’ Category

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Fashion for Every Form

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on September 20, 2012 at 11:59 pm

You may have heard that Tampa Bay Fashion Week will cater  to a variety of style personalities, but did you know that you will also find something for every beautiful body type, as well?  Audrey Pat is the CEO of a high end urban clothing line for women 25 and older, paying specific attention to those in the size range of 12-24.

Pat views her design skills as a gift from God, allowing her to help women in all stages of life.  From the new bride about to embark on a beautiful journey to the woman recovering from an illness, Audrey Pat has every woman covered.

Another fabulous designer with the female form in mind is Lapratto.  Born from the desire to provide contemporary garments to a new generation of women, Lapratto brings the perfect marriage of classic and modern to the woman who knows what she wants and makes no apologies.

No matter your size or style preference, you are sure to be delighted by a garment or two at Tampa Bay Fashion Week.

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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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Top 7 Strappy Shoes for Summer

In Fashion, Trends on May 28, 2012 at 3:46 pm

Soon we can finally celebrate summer in all it’s hot glory! When it comes to summer style, there is nothing I like more than bright colors, cute sandals and striped patterns.

Lately I’ve been searching for my newest summer obsession — strappy shoes. More so… shoes that have a strap over your ankle. You’ll see them almost everywhere, but here are seven of my favorite strappy shoes for summer. All of which are super affordable!

Let’s start with my favorite one, which actually inspired me to write this post in the first place. I love these yellow heels from Ann Taylor! They are so perfect for summer work wear and summer outings.

Ann Taylor Riley Patent Strappy Sandals $158

LOFT Frances Color Pop Wedges $79.50

LOFT Lara Platform Espadrilles $79.50

Aldo Wedges $80

Aldo Blyze $120

Aldo Hartzeld $80

H&M Wedge Heels $34.95

Which “strappy shoe” is your fave? Tell us by writing a comment below!

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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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Everyone Loves the Beach & Two Coconuts Swimwear

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 23, 2011 at 9:05 am

Join us as we welcome Renee Scarborough, owner of Two Coconuts, to Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2011!

Two Coconuts brings sophistication and comfort to all your swim wear and resort wear. Renee, a native of St. Pete, understood how uncomfortable and ill-fitting swim suits could be, because of this she began creating her own designs for herself. Soon her friends began asking for swim suits and sun dresses for themselves, bringing to life Two Coconuts Swimwear. For 15 years, Renee has been creating her custom swim wear that can be worn by all woman. Two Coconuts has a wide selection of swim suits, from bikinis, tankinis and one pieces, with tons of prints to choose from!

Renee’s debut at Fashion Week will surely take the audience back to their summer days on the beach with her beautiful designs of swim wear and sun dresses! Can’t wait to see what she brings to the runways tonight – see you there!

~Yolanda

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A.P.M. Images Hits The Runway

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 22, 2011 at 3:33 pm

Tampa Bay Fashion Week is thrilled to welcome back Audrey “Pat” McGhee, CEO of A.P.M. Images, as one of this year’s featured designers. Her urban couture women’s line is designed for those who want to blend boldness with feminine beauty. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, Pat uses her God-given gifts to work with women from their most extraordinary or nominal points in life and everywhere in between.

In addition to creating fabulous ensembles, Ms. McGhee also serves as the Fashion Editor for Power Broker Magazine in addition to volunteering her time to the community working with youth and being involved in service projects.

Pat’s talent is the fashionable inspiration for trendsetters as well as movers and shakers who are looking for unique, classy appeal. With focus on individual body size, and specifically honed in on the difficult to find forgotten sizes (12-24), her designs appeal to the everyday woman. After many previous runway hits at Tampa Bay Fashion Week, we are eagerly anticipating what’s yet to come!

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Swanky Soiree on the Fashion Week Calendar

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends, Updates on September 21, 2011 at 1:24 pm


Swanky Soiree 2011 is an official event of Fashion Week Tampa Bay, and their name truly does say it all – it will be another Swanky Soiree!

Amazing restaurants, chefs and vendors are all part of this year’s event as well as fashion designer, Alla-K and fine artist, Don Kobasky. And while you are having a dream night at the soiree, you will be happy knowing that proceeds are going to help Brookwood Florida, a licensed therapeutic group home for adolescent girls.

There simply is nothing we like better than an evening filled with fine fashion, fine art, fine dining and fine friends – and knowing that proceeds of that evening are going to benefit a very worthwhile and much deserving organization like Brookwood Florida.

Follow this event up by attending the after party at Push Ultra Lounge, and then, of course, Fashion Week Tampa Bay’s runway show (9/23)  – a perfect start to another perfect weekend in Florida paradise.

See you there!

~Paula

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WWOTB Makes Business Networking Fun

In Events, Trends, Updates on September 21, 2011 at 11:09 am

Like thousands of women throughout the Greater Tampa Bay area, I look forward to receiving invitations and emails to see what fun event is planned next with Working Women of Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay Fashion Week is all about fun, too, which makes Working Women of Tampa Bay a great sponsor and fit for our event!

Networking comes naturally to me – as I know it does to many women. I love sharing tips and tricks for everything from fitness to cosmetics to fun events to fashion with my long-time girlfriends and the new ones I meet daily. I know the events hosted by Working Women of Tampa Bay are sure to be fun times connecting with friends while meeting at that month’s locale – and I know I always go home with names and numbers of new friends as well as an exciting goody bag.

When I attend a WWOTB monthly mixer, I am always certain I will enjoy a great night out and make connections that, in addition, to being personal connections have also many times turned into great business relationships. I personally love doing business with people I know, like and trust, and thanks to WWOTB, I have added many new girlfriends to that group.

Fashion Week Tampa Bay and Working Women of Tampa Bay sounds like the perfect partnership to me – a fun, fabulous event with a fun, fabulous sponsor. I’m looking forward to seeing WWOTB at this year’s event along with many of my WWOTB friends.

~Paula