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Posts Tagged ‘Fashion Week Tampa Bay’

Monstruosité by Dolly Donshey: The Seven Devils Showcase

In Designers, Events, Fashion on March 26, 2013 at 2:31 pm

In February we were fortunate enough to attend Dolly Donshey of Monstruosité’s showcase at Martini Republic in the heart of Downtown Tampa. Titled “Seven Devils,” the Fall/Winter 2013-14 collection was a representation of the seven deadly sins through fashion, video, music and drama.

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The Seven Devils showcase was as unique as Dolly Donshey’s designs. The audience was mesmerized by the theatrics of the show as the models impersonated each of their deadly sins to Ms. Donshey’s poetic narration.photo 2

Monstruosité’s Fall/Winter 2013-14 collection stayed very true to its theme. The designs, the story behind the collection, the luminous makeup and hair pieces down to the glitter-infused faux blood covering the models’ limbs – the showcase did not miss a beat. Although, this does not come as a surprise for work produced by TBFW Designer 2011 & 2012, Dolly Donshey.

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We look forward to the bright future of Dolly Donshey and the beyond ingenious and artistic work yet to come from Monstruosité.

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~Jenna

Golden Globe Awards: Who Wore What?

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on January 15, 2013 at 6:23 pm

Only a few short days after the People’s Choice Awards (see our review here), Hollywood was at it again as last night marked the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards.” This year’s show was hosted by the hilarious estrogen duo of Tina Fey (30 Rock) and Amy Poehler (Parks & Recreation). The Golden Globes celebrates the accomplishments of both TV and movies as it takes place at the legendary Beverly Hilton Hotel. Everyone knows this is the “Miss Cleo” of award shows, as a lot of recipients from last night, have an even better chance to take home the coveted Oscar at this year’s Academy Awards (Feb. 24th). While some of you may be movie buffs and have your DVR full to the max of your favorite networks shows…my fellow fashionistas and I look forward to the incredible style, fashion, and abundance of sequins and faux fur that grace this iconic Hollywood evening. So c’mon stars and starlets…show us what ya got!

GG Hosts

Tina Fey is strutting a custom L’Wren Scott dress that is paying a tribute to the 50’s era due to its cut and length. She pulls it off well as it shows her glamorous side while still remaining quirky. Amy Poehler shocked the crowd as she sports a custom Stella McCartney tux, revealing a sexy deep V. Both of these comedic leading ladies couldn’t have looked better as for tonight, all eyes on Hollywood are on them. (Image: celebrity-gossip.net)

70th Annual Golden Globe Awards - Arrivals
Anne Hathaway looks absolutely radiant in this white beaded Chanel gown. The Les Miserables star looks flawless with her pixie hair cut, and this proves that simplicity can be all you need. (Image: Huffington Post)

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Adele made her Golden Globes debut this year, as her hit song Skyfall was nominated and won at this years show. She is wearing a Burberry gown that is pure Adele-style. It’s very modest and the detailing at the decolletage is a nice touch. The talented songstress is looking gorgeous as she recently gave birth to her first child. (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Sofia Vergara glistened on the red carpet as she pulled off a Michael Cinco gown exceptionally well. Her hair is simple, her makeup is clean, and she has done the fashion gods justice once again. Bravo! (Image: FabSugar.com)

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Jennifer Lopez was the definition of sexy and classy as she wore a Zuhair Murad sheer gown, complete with lace. Notoriously known for making statements on the red carpet, Jennifer Lopez is a contender for this years “Best Dressed” at the Globes. (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Kate Hudson rocks the red carpet with this amazing piece by Alexander McQueen. While it’s hard to not kill it when wearing McQueen, Hudson definitely turns up the volume and does the late designer justice in every way. Another contender for my “Best Dressed” list! (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Michelle Dockery made heads turn as she showed up in an Alexandre Vauthier Fall 2012 Couture gown. Gorgeous lace with impeccable detail from the bust to the cap sleeve, and a seamless white crepe bottom made this star another possibility for this year’s “Best Dressed.” (Image: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Olivia Munn is seen here absolutely killing it in a Giorgio Armani Spring 2013 dress. The black and turquoise zig zag top is interesting and appealing to the eye, as the bottom black portion is sleek and sexy. Job well done, Olivia! (Image credit: RedCarpetFashionAwards.com)

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Nicole Kidman has done it! She wins this years “Best Dressed” …according to me, at this year’s Golden Globes. Alexander McQueen does it again as this dress is everything the Golden Globes truly stands for. It’s elegant, sexy and a little off the edge, and Kidman commands the red carpet like a true Hollywood icon should. Congrats Nicole! (Image credit: Glamour.com)

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Lucy Liu took an extremely bold chance as she chose this printed Caroline Herrera dress. It’s shocking at first, but I have to admit I find it to be absolutely BEAUTIFUL! One of the very few prints we have seen on the red carpet this season and only a star like Liu could pull it off! (Image: Glamour.com)

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Kerry Washington plays up the sex factor and succeeds tremondously with this Miu Miu jewel encrusted gown. While not floor length, her rocker chic hair and closed-toe shoes makes this look a must-see for this evening. (Image: Glamour.com)

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Katharine McPhee looks beyond amazing in this black Theyskens’ Theory gown. The Smash star is looking mature, sexy and confident as she is this year’s runner up for “Best Dressed.” (Image: Glamour.com)

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Nicole Richie screams old time Hollywood as the jewel encrusted, long sleeve Naeem Khan gown is definitely working in her favor. Everything from the loose curls in her hair to the House of Harlow clutch, Richie nailed it! (Image: Glamour.com)

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Zachary Levi looks beyond adorable and extremely handsome in this midnight blue tux. A man who has the confidence and the ability to pull off anything but a black tux gets major points from me 🙂 “Best Dressed” male for me this year by far. (Image: Fresherthanchris.com)

There you have it! Only a small look at what is known to be the biggest (and possibly sloppiest) party/award show of the year. The Academy Awards (Feb. 24) are sneaking up on us and I’ll be back to give all of you the latest scoop on the hottest looks.

Sparkle Your Way Through Fall

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on November 6, 2012 at 6:26 pm

The time has come when the Tampa Bay area is blessed with cooler weather.  Cooler weather=Cooler fashion!  If you love the look of layers, glitz and mixed textures, winter in Florida is a very happy time for you.

Metallic denim is hotter than ever this season, from light champagne to brilliant gold.  Pair it with a cute sweater for the ultimate ensemble.

Faith Connexion metallic coated stretch-denim skinny jeans

Rag & Bone Metallic Legging

Silver Metallic Jeans with Chic Striped Sweater

Traditionally, Fall fashion can sometimes appear drab.  Don’t you dare pair a frumpy dark sweater with black pants!  Choose one brilliant sparkling piece to create magic within the rest of your ensemble.

Pink and Silver Sequined Tuxedo Jacket

Copper Sequined Skirt with Silk Blouse in Winter White

Cozy Gray Sweater with Gold Sparkle Mini

Street Sparkle

On your search for Fall fashion, have fun!  Remember:

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!

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 VersaillesChanel 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.

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!

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.

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!

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

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!