When it comes to color, Color Zoom shows the trends!

Wondering what is trendy in hair and nails? According to someone who just got back from London's Color Zoom international event, hair is multi-dimensional (with rich colors blending, flowing together, not chunky). Umbre is hot. In nails, glitter and fades are in. 

And what about winners?

From right here in South Florida, the New Talent Colorist is ...
Robert Allen Salon
Zachary Allen Jancek
Ft. Lauderdale, FL




See all the details and winners here: www.colorzoom12.com/professionalschoice.html

Simon Fashion Now rocks Boca Raton's Town Center Mall

Fashion fans flocked to the Town Center mall to check out ready-to-wear fashions that they could see on the runway and buy right off the rack a few minutes later. 

Photos and story by Rachel Galvin

Boca Raton's Town Center mall was transformed with fashion Sept. 28 and 29. The events began on Friday evening with a runway fashion show of top designers. But Saturday has all-day activities. From noon to 4 p.m., there were all types of giveaways. Nordstrom had a Runway Trend Show followed later by more runway shows with must-have looks for fall. The South Florida Firefighters even got into the act modeling! They also sold calendars for charities. Besides clothes, models also showed off shoes, accessories and sunglasses. Ready, Set, Style invited guests from the audience to participate to see which team was the best pair of stylists. There were also product demonstrations throughout the mall.

At noon, fashion designers from Arts Institute competed for gift certificates.Each student had to design a dress themed around one of the mall's restaurants. The winner was Yanitza Bueso, who is from Honduras. Her theme was from the restaurant Tossed. Her sister, Sandra, was her model. The designers who didn't win on the runway, still had a chance to win a prize through popular vote. The models stood on pedestals displaying their outfits with signs saying Vote for me. Onlookers could vote via text.

Bueso said, "I started in 2010. This was my first big fashion show."

She classifies her style as "simple but with an edgy feel to it."

AI Winner Yanitza Bueso and model Sandra Bueso

Designer: Holly Rogers, Theme: Earl of Sandwich

Designer: Amanda Berryhill, Theme: Auntie Ann's

Designer: Sarah Samere, Theme: Chick Fil-A

Women in the Arts Miami Fashion Show

Photos and story by Rachel Galvin

On Sept. 24, the Who's Who in the South Florida artistic community emerged to be awarded for their achievements. In addition the the awards ceremony, there also was an intimate floor fashion show which engaged the entire audience. Designers Francisco Azucar, Julian Chang, Linda Zamora and Viviana Gabieras showed off their styles. The Pret a Porte Fashion Designer of the Year was Viviana Gabeiras. The Fashion Designer winner for swimwear was Zamora Swimwear (Linda Zamora). More info. soon!

Viviana Gabeiras with her models

Linda Zamora, models and WITA organizer Diana Laura

Designed by Francisco Azucar

Julian Chang and his models

Wonder what size you are? Try this chart!

Ladies, you may wonder what size you are, especially if you have recently lost weight. I ran across this chart that may be helpful. It certainly clarified a few things for me!

Spring 2013: Men's trends

By Rachel Galvin

Ahhh.... Spring Menswear ... light and refreshing, shiny splendor, how can we describe the eye-popping color as playful as a tray full of macrons and as attention-getting as a stop sign? 

(Can you believe it is already time to look at Spring fashion? I don't know about you... but I am just getting my styles ready for fall. I will be talking about women later, but, right now, I want to focus on the men). 

Okay, guys, hope you are ready to shine this season because you are in the spotlight. Look for metallics to be a mainstay, whether it is a tie paired with a traditional suit, a metallic shirt or pants. Also look for bright eye-popping colors. The color trend has really come your way. Even bring colored suits will be in vogue. But, if that idea scares you, again, play it down with a bright tie, shirt or even an accessory like a watch or a bag.

In spring and summer, the heat is on so it is nice that, this season, materials are lighter. Choose linen, cotton or nylon shirts to stay cool and grab some shorts. Make sure your legs are looking prime. For that matter, do some bicep curls because the arms become the focus with sleeveless shirts. Prints are popular this season. Jumpsuits make a comeback and even tunics and lace made an appearance in the runways. Don't forget your sandals, which will be coming out in cool new styles.

Okay, boys, this really is your season to strut your stuff so make the most of it. It isn't every day when colors are so fun for menswear.

Oprah goes au naturale

By Rachel Galvin

Oprah is going au naturale showing the locks she was born with on the cover of the new O Magazine (available Aug. 7). For those who think she is really breaking out of the box, that may be true for the TV queen, but the natural trend is back in style and has been for awhile. Vogue Italia was just one mag that was commenting even in the spring on the natural hair trend. How long will this look last? Who knows. It could be "hair" today and gone tomorrow.

Did you know there is a Natural Hair Show in October in Atlanta? Check it out athttp://www.naturalhairshow.org/showinfo.html.

Top 5 Make-Up Trends for Fall 2012

Lanvin's winged-eye

Editor's Note: Talk about 50 shades of gray! This season, add silvery shades to those lids and a winged eye that Catwoman would purr for. Finish off your look with a peachy glow and spice it up with some wild mascara! Don't you just love fall?


 Tips By Videojug (www.videojug.com)
(Videojug provides a vast amount of video content based on the "how-to" topic that covers various topics for users to enjoy. )

When the evolution of fashion is discussed inevitably talk turns to how clothes or footwear have changed over the years, while make-up and cosmetics is inexplicably ignored. These categories arguably change quicker than the more understood areas of the fashion world, and, if you want your make-up to be current and relevant, you need to have your finger firmly on the pulse of the cosmetics world. We looked at five of the top makeup trends for this fall to enable you to be one-step ahead of your friends and work colleagues. Make the most of these inspirational ideas from top designers to ensure your makeup turns heads everywhere.

 1. Gray Eye Shadow This idea comes straight from the look book of the amazing Valentino brand, and is not something that immediately grabs the attention as being exciting and inspirational. Bear with us though, and try this out. Use a brown eye pencil to frame the eyes, before using a gray with pink hints on the upper eyelid. Finish with a darker gray and purple shade beneath the brow for a truly distinct look, and finish with a black, thickening mascara.  

2. Brow Styling Playing around with eyebrows used to be exclusively for those who didn’t have any; however, this year there will be opportunities for you to add a tint of color to your brows with a darker eye pencil. Use a lash brush and a little cream or gel to brush the eyebrows up for more definition and a crisp look around the eyes.  

3. Cheeky Contrasts Creating a stark contrast between the eyes and rest of the face is going to be a key trend for the upcoming season. Although historically it has always been an idea to focus primarily on the eyes first, this season demands that you define your eyes with a sophisticated brown and gold mix of shades, while bringing out your cheeks with a peach or berry blush.  

4. Winged Eyes Something familiar but still seemingly as fresh as ever, winged eyes remain a top makeup trend this fall. Go for a pointed brush and a black liquid shadow for aggressive lines that should extend beyond the eyebrow. Just make sure that from the end of the eye your line thins out or else you will look like a comic alien!  


5. Customized Mascara Keep away from colored mascaras this fall as they can be dangerous to get right. Instead, use black, extreme lash defining mascaras and use a colored pigment to apply later. Where bright blues or reds as mascaras look too much, using them as an additional pigment can truly bring your eyes to life.

2012 Fashion Week schedule

February 9


• 9AM
NICHOLAS K, STUDIO
• 10AM
BCBGMAXAZRIA, THEATRE
• 10:30-11:30AM
KAELEN, BOX
• 11AM
RICHARD CHAI, STAGE
• 1PM
HONOR, STUDIO
• 2PM
TADASHI SHOJI, STAGE
• 2:30-3:30PM
CANDELA, BOX
• 4PM
CHADWICK BELL, STUDIO
• 5PM
JOSEPH ABBOUD, PIER 57, W 15TH ST


February 10


• 10AM
PARKCHOONMOO, STUDIO
• 10:30-11:30AM
GREENSHOWS presents Fall 2012 Designer Collection Previews, BOX
• 11AM-12PM
CONCEPT KOREA, STAGE
• 1PM
GENERAL IDEA, STUDIO
• 2PM
REBECCA TAYLOR, STAGE
• 2:30-3:30PM
BRANDON SUN, BOX
• 3PM
REBECCA MINKOFF, THEATRE
• 5:30PM
TOMMY HILFIGER MEN'S, 643 PARK AVE
• 6PM
NICOLE MILLER, STUDIO
• 6:30-7:30PM
KATYA LEONOVICH, BOX
• 7PM
CHARLOTTE RONSON, STAGE
• 8PM
ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY, THEATRE




February 11


• 9AM
RUFFIAN, STUDIO
• 10AM
LACOSTE, THEATRE
• 10:30-11:30AM
PORTER GREY, BOX
• 11AM
JILL STUART, STAGE
• 12PM
SON JUNG WAN, STUDIO
• 2-3:30PM
RAFAEL CENNAMO, BOX
• 2PM
MARA HOFFMAN, STAGE
• 3PM
HERVÉ LÉGER BY MAX AZRIA, THEATRE
• 4PM
VANTAN TOKYO, STUDIO
• 6PM
TIBI , STAGE
• 7PM
MONIQUE LHUILLIER, THEATRE
• 7:30-8:30PM
L.A.M.B., BOX
• 9PM
VENEXIANA, STUDIO




February 12


• 10:30-11:30AM
LORENA SARBU, BOX
• 11AM
LELA ROSE, STUDIO
• 12PM
DEREK LAM, 330 WEST ST
• 1PM
DKNY, 547 W 26TH ST
• 2PM
TRACY REESE, STUDIO
• 2:30-3:30PM
JOY CIOCI, BOX
• 3PM
CUSTO BARCELONA, STAGE
• 4PM
DIANE VON FURSTENBERG, THEATRE
• 5PM
FALGUNI & SHANE PEACOCK, STUDIO
• 5PM
Y-3, 82 MERCER ST
• 6PM
CARMEN MARC VALVO, NASDAQ, 4 TIMES SQ
• 7:30-8:30PM
MATHIEU MIRANO, BOX
• 9PM
TIMO WEILAND, STUDIO







February 13


• 9-10AM
NEGARIN, BOX
• 9AM
JENNY PACKHAM, STUDIO
• 10AM
CAROLINA HERRERA, THEATRE
• 11AM
CARLOS MIELE, STAGE
• 1PM
ZANG TOI, STUDIO
• 1:30-2:30PM
EMILIO CAVALLINI, BOX
• 2PM
DONNA KARAN NEW YORK, 547 W 26TH ST
• 3PM
REEM ACRA, STAGE
• 4PM
YEOHLEE, 25 W 38TH ST
• 5PM
BIBHU MOHAPATRA, STUDIO
• 6PM
BETSEY JOHNSON, THEATRE
• 6:30-7:30PM
LEATHER JAPAN 2012, BOX
• 7PM
PRETE & BRUNO, STAGE




February 14


• 8:30-10AM
NORISOL FERRARI, BOX
• 9AM
TORY BURCH, ALICE TULLY HALL
• 9:30-10:30AM
J.CREW, STUDIO
• 10AM
BADGLEY MISCHKA, THEATRE
• 11AM
VERA WANG, STAGE
• 1PM
DIESEL BLACK GOLD, PIER 57, W 15TH ST
• 2:00-3:30PM
FOTINI, BOX
• 2PM
NAEEM KHAN, THEATRE
• 3PM
DENNIS BASSO, STAGE
• 5PM
PAMELLA ROLAND, STUDIO
• 7:30-8:30PM
HAUS ALKIRE, BOX
• 8PM
NARCISO RODRIGUEZ, THEATRE
• 9PM
EMERSON, STUDIO


February 15


• 9AM
WHITNEY EVE, STUDIO
• 10AM
MICHAEL KORS, THEATRE
• 10:30-11:30AM
ROCHAMBEAU, BOX
• 11AM
NANETTE LEPORE, STAGE
• 12PM
PORTS 1961, NY PUBLIC LIBRARY
• 1PM
JOANNA MASTROIANNI, STUDIO
• 2-4PM
LEVI'S, 82 MERCER ST
• 2PM
J. MENDEL, THEATRE
• 2:30-3:30PM
SUZANNE RAE, BOX
• 3PM
MILLY BY MICHELLE SMITH, STAGE
• 5PM
FARAH ANGSANA, STUDIO
• 6PM
ANNA SUI, THEATRE
• 6:30-7:30PM
NOMIA, BOX
• 7PM
VIVIENNE TAM, STAGE
• 8PM
B MICHAEL AMERICA, MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK, 1220 5TH AVE


February 16


• 10AM
RALPH LAUREN, 275 HUDSON ST
• 11AM
RALPH LAUREN, 275 HUDSON ST
• 2PM
CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, 205 W 39TH ST
• 3PM
CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION, 205 W 39TH ST

Andre Leon Talley to be honored in NYC

2012 NYFW EMERGE! Fashion Show To Honor Vogue’s Contributing Editor Andre’ Leon Talley

The event will be hosted at the historic Broad Street Ballroom (41 Broad Street, NYC) on Feb. 14, 2012 at 6 p.m. for Reception and 7 p.m. for Awards program and Fashion Show. The invite-only event will be sprinkled with stars such as Kristin Chenoweth, Nole Marin, J Alexander, Jill Zarin and more.

Actress Tracee Ellis Ross will be taking the stage with EMERGE! Host Chavis Aaron for an unforgettable New York City Fashion Week event. The show has consistently been a platform for emerging designers and this year’s esteemed Fashion Innovator
Award (FIA) will be presented to Vogue’s Contributing Editor Andre’ Leon Talley.

To add to the excitement of the evening the award will be handed off to Andre by legendary designer and President of the CFDA Diane Von Furstenberg.

EMERGE! A Fashion Runway Show is produced by D. Williams Public Relations Group and debuted on the Fashion elite social scene in February 2011 and since then has been
consistent in providing a platform for emerging designers to showcase
their work twice a year for New York City Fashion Week. This year’s
EMEGE! Will feature a total of 6 designers: Terri Stevens of Project
Runway, Omar Villalobos & Gordana Rasic , Elie Kuame , Barbara Bates,
Michael Alan Stein & Jahi Fitzgerald.

“New York Fashion Week is a magical time. I am delighted to co-host
the EMERGE! show and to share the stage with fashion innovators in
celebration of emerging talent,” states Tracee Ellis Ross.

Ms. Ross is well known for her leading role as Joan Clayton in the
hit UPN/CW Television series Girlfriends. This role earned her eight
NAACP Image Award nominations including two wins, one in 2007 and
another in 2009, in the category of Outstanding Lead Actress in a
Comedy Series. Tracee is currently starring in and co-producing the
BET sitcom Reed Between the Lines opposite Malcolm Jamal Warner. In
October, Tracee appeared in Lifetime’s short film series Project 5
in the film Lili directed by Alicia Keys. Tracee recently cohosted
GMHC’s 2011 Fashion Forward, which featured top designers. She is
an undeniably graceful force and is described as a “trend setter
with signature style,” and a woman “gracefully redefining the
rules for success.”

“We could not be happier for Tracee Ellis Ross to join the EMERGE!
Team this year as a co-host,” states EMERGE! producer Dionne
Williams. “This event has grown faster than any of us ever
expected. Tracee is truly the epitome of elegance and was hands down,
the perfect choice.”

Emerge! is created and produced by D. Williams PR Group. The fashion
show production is provided by Tai Chunn of MVC Management
Productions. Sponsors for the evening include: Bennett Career
Institute/ C. Alan Glam Squad, Flowers and Production design by Adam
Leffel Production with florals being designed by Polpat Klongkhayan.
Full Public Relations, Press and Media services for the event are
being provided by Beautiful Planning Marketing & PR.

Dressing Hongkong -- Desi Style.

(This fashion update straight from India...)

This Fall/Winter 2012, Hong Kong fashion week witnessed a dose of Vibrant India, as seven exceptional home grown talent showcased their signature lines. Each collection exudes an unique modernity of heritage workmanship,which would attract buyers across boundaries.

Ace designer Nisha Sagar presented a classic cocktail line in sensual nudes like sand,beige,cream and mocha in shimmer Georgette and light Chiffon.Her modern take on Churidar -Kurti were further dazzled with crystal and sequin embellishment.

Carrying forward the heritage mood,was designer C Singh, whose collection celebrated the Big Fat NRI wedding.The Bright and Vibrant range of silhouettes were splashed with bold Indian Prints and intricate spangle embroidery.Shraddha Vora's ode to Opulent Regalia was a perfect Punctuation for closing the Grandeur of Traditional India.Motley of Fabrics were marinated in vibrant tie and dye and further crafted into exclusive ethnic ensembles.

Designer Aniket Satam, showcased two quirky looks,which was a fun and fresh take on zestful Youngistan.Inspired by Convent uniforms and structured 60s,his fall line celebrated modern simplicity and sharp contrasting to this,his show ended with a Gypsy Kutch Cool resort wear.Yellow Jeans by Kapil Jain experimented with the staple Denim and Transformed them into Ultra chic and Girly outfits.Every denim look had a unique treatment done with impeccable detailing and finesse.

Stall only designers featured Basavraj 's bouquet of delicate tulle dresses in confectionery palette of ivory,peach,nude,Lilac and pink.Each outfit had floral explosion,crafted with couture precision with minute atelier detailing.Talking about details,to finish a look,one requires a perfect accessory and this need in the pavilion was curated by Felix Bendish.Known for his Innovative Flamboyant fashion bibs,Bendish marveled this season with his new signature - Lizard Brooches and cocktail clutches.His experimental embellishment techniques has re-written the Indian craftsmanship into a Modern Universal realm of design aesthetics.

This Successful International Fashion venture of Indian Talent, was a dexterous initiative of premium design school - B.D.Somani Institute of Fashion technology,Mumbai India.And was promoted and managed by Mr.Vinit Ganjwala of Mystique Promotion P Ltd.

Spring 2010

In contrast to Fall's hard core rocker style, Spring brings a softer sentiment, like a gentle rain. With muted pastels, the lines break the mold of this season for something distinctively sunnier. Plaids take the form of prairie dresses. Grandpa Cardigan sweaters reappear for men, some of which are seen sporting pompadour hairdos. Florals are on the loose, spread on a flower bed of bright colors -- like eye-popping purples. A personal fav: BCBGs yellow mod dress, taking something old, adding a new flavor and making it ultra-modern.

No matter the change of season/ style, hold onto the basics because they never seem to go out of fashion. More fashion news to come!

Irene Marie closes

After 25 years, the modeling agency Irene Marie closes its doors. It allegedly owes money to some people and is attempting to pay any outstanding payments.

Heard it through the grapevine...

Tomorrow, January 20, the Signature Grand in Davie is having a bridal fashion show. Check it out. It starts at 6 p.m.

The PGA Merchandise Show incorporates a fashion gallery

Attention Golf enthusiasts: The 56th PGA Merchandise Show is held Jan 29-31 from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.

The Outdoor Demo Day, Jan. 28, tees off the show at the Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge in Winter Garden, FL.

This year is incorporating a 6,300 square foot fashion gallery, which offers greater interaction between buyers and designers and an expanded showcase of apparel. Guests will see the latest trends, new designers, the latest golf accessories and apparel. In addition, there will be book signings and interactive contests. Look for informational seminars too.

Top international executives and PGA professionals will be in attendance. About 45,000 people are expected to attend the weekend. This is a trade-only show. For more information, visit www.pga.com.

Fashion comes to Palm Beach!

Portada Magazine with PGA National Resort & SPA presents ...
the Spring Summer Collection by Nicolas Felizola (http://www.nicolasfelizola.com). Check out haute coutoure by this acclaimed international designer. Cocktail hour starts at 7 p.m., followed by an 8 p.m. show and 9 p.m. VIP reception. The event costs $50. Proceeds benefit the American Lung Association of Florida (www.lungfla.org).Reservation is required one week prior to event and payment can be made to Portada magazine by contact with Michael Fieger at 561-201-6021.

Ethos brings fashion to Florida

This weekend: January 9-11, The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood is the place to be for the latest fashions of designers based here ...and everywhere. This fashion extravaganza, will welcome designer, fashionistas and socialites. Guests will not only enjoy world fashion but also live music, champagne and tasty tidbits from exotic places like Latin America and the Carribean.

The festivities kickoff tonight at 8 p.m. with introductions by Exec. Producer Gregory Yap Sam at 8:30 p.m. This will follow a reception filled with health-conscious complimentary selections. Presenting designers have designed a unique collection of red dresses as part of the Ethos Designer Red Dress Collection to help benefit the "Go Red for Women" campaign founded by the American Heart Association.

Entertainment includes the group Expose' performing live on Saturday night at 10 p.m and DJ Pierre ZonZon. For a full schedule, visit www.ethos-usa.com. Tickets range $50-$200.

Sponsors of this Lux Life event include Cucina D' Angelo, Southern Wine & Spirits, Champagne Lanson, Posche Models, Fierte Cosmetics, CUBA Beverage Company, BocaRaton.com, Simply the Best Magazine, Visnet, Planet Beach, C2 Events, Mensaje TV, Cirage, All About Choo!, Salon Edge, Island Expert Travel, Hawkins Antiques, Tropical Elegance Floral Creations, A Alexander Event, Tamburrino Group, LLC.

Festivities take place at Passion Nightclub at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 5701 Seminole Way, Hollywood.

Also visit www.bocaraton.com for more info.

Prada ... what were you thinking?

RTW 2008 collections and along comes Prada. I hate to be catty, but can someone tell me what Prada was thinking here? This poor guy looks like a eunuch that got dragged to the disco dressed by an eight year old. Ha-ha. This is not the only hideous outfit to be presented at the 2008 collection. But it was certainly the one that stood out to me.

But, hey, let it be said that I am all for great expression experiments. I have certainly had my share. :)

Paris: Fashion Becomes You

If you don't know, Paris is undergoing a fashionable change right now with the intrusion of fashion week. This artistic event is another great chance to see fashion gone wild. I think the sentiment of the season was definitely summed up by John Galliano's display. Looking more like a masquerade party than a fashion show, models on his catwalk looked like they snuck into mom's powder room and threw on her oversized wardrobe, mixing and matching patterns like there was no tomorrow. Raccoon eyes, multip color mushrooming caps, flopping over the sides of the head, fur coats, lollypop color tights: all just part of the showcase he called Xanadu.

A little piece of heaven...NReagan Spa

Today I had the pleasure to step into NReagan Day Spa for a massage. First, the staff was so friendly and the lobby was inviting, dimly lit and filled with must-have top of the line products, including their own superb line of products.

After filling out a brief standard questionaire (with added questions as to my preference of talking level, pressure level, aromatherapy and music type), I was scurried upstairs to the locker room. I had my own locker, not with a lock but with my own secret code. Within this lair were showers, a steam room and areas with sinks, mirrors and complementary products: styling products, deodorant, lotions...

I put on my big fluffy robe and stepped out to yet another waiting area with oversized striped chairs and a view of the beautiful ocean walking distance away, just across the street. They even have food here, although I did not partake (next time.)

After a brief wait, I was taken into the massage room. To my delight, the bed was warmed. I started face down. She told me to take in a deep breath...peppermint, sinus-opening, tingling peppermint. It was just a few whiffs and then it was straight to the massage. She spent what seemed like forever rubbing my back in long flowing stress-reducing strokes. She moved onto my arms, my legs, flipped me over and began again, adding a much needed rub of stressed out neck, head and scalp. After she finished each area, she placed a warm towel over the area (back, feet, for example), wiping them clean. When she was done, she placed the robe across me and went off to get me some water.

But the experience was far from over. Next was the shower with my choice of three different types of shower heads and complementary shampoo, conditioner and soap. Amazing. I could have tried the steam room but did not. I relished the shower experience and got dressed and went downstairs, making sure to drink plenty of water, of course.

On the way down, I took a self-guided tour through some of their other areas where services for hair, face, nails, etc. were taking place. It was a much more busy atmosphere as opposed to the tranquility found above.

Back to the lobby, relieved, able to breathe deeply, relaxed and happy. I immediately bought the apple lotion, my favorite. They come out with a different flavor I belive monthly. It is great! I wrote a previous blog about it a while ago.

They have a whole spa menu with facials, paraffin, mani/ pedi, hair styles--red carpet treatment all the way. I am ready to go back again!

For more information on NReagan Day Spa, located at 10 N. Ocean Blvd. in Delray Beach, call 561.278.8111 or visit nreaganspa.com.

Fashion Week

Want to see more about fashion week? Check out www.citysmartmagazine.com where you can find a whole article about the show, behind the scenes mayhem and more pics as well as a video!

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Miami

Did you catch Miami's big event? The fashion week was spectacular filled with model mayhem and celebrity frenzy---what is in store for Summer 2008? Prints, metallics, Bohemian styles, eye-popping colors and cute coverups and cutouts.

Stylist, Lisa Cera, went all out to showcase New York vibe, adding a "wow" factor to Red Carter's suits. From fingerless striped gloves to poufy bobbed wigs, she added extra oomph to the collection. The show brought in 600 attendees!

Jessica Simpson turned on the charm with innocent-looking suits, sporting red, white and blue!

Tyson Beckford wasn't the only hunky male model to sport some colorful trunks for Parke & Ronen.

---This is just a preview! I will have a full rundown and pics very soon for all that missed the festivities.

Morgan Miller event!

Check it out! Charity shopping event taking place at Morgan Miller for Cool Junkie.

To kick off a month dedicated to the Soles4Souls charity, Morgan Miller is hosting a launch event on Wednesday, August 22 from 5 – 9 PM. Customers who generously donate one pair of “lightly worn” shoes receive 20% off all merchandise, and those donating two pairs enjoy a 30% discount. The boutique will be serving champagne and light hors d’ oeuvres as guests view new merchandise and create their own custom-designed shoes. The shoe drive and customer discount will continue through September 31.

Soles4Souls facilitates the donation of used shoes to people in need worldwide. The first region serviced by the Soles4Souls team was the area affected by the Asian tsunami. Since then, they’ve delivered millions of pairs of shoes across the globe including the US, Mexico, Venezuela, Ecuador, The Dominican Republic and Sudan. www.soles4souls.org

Morgan Miller puts the creative power in the hands of her customers, fashionistas choose from a selection of soles, spanning wooden heels to cork wedges, and more than 100 swatches in various patterns, leathers and exotic skins. Accessories such as jewels, chains and bamboo personalize the look even further. Celebrity fans include Brooke Hogan, Bad Boys II actress Gabrielle Union, The 40-Year-Old Virgin’s Stormy Daniels, and Victoria’s Secret beauty Marissa Miller. The boutique is located just off Lincoln Road at 1634 Euclid Avenue. www.morganmillershoes.com.

---reposted from Zakharin PR

DESIGNER RUTH AVRA SHOWCASES HER FABULOUS JEWELRY COLLECTIONS

On Friday, June 15, Miami-based Ruth Avra showcased pieces from her jewelry collections at the exclusive GenArt SHOP MIAMI event, where guests enjoyed an evening of designer shopping, cocktails, fashion presentations and music.

Hundreds of people braved the rainy weather to attend the fabulous event held at the Moore Building in the Design District. Guests were able to purchase designer fashions at discounted prices, including pieces from Ruth Avra's Metal, Signature and Men's Collections, and meet Ruth Avra Kleinman, the designer behind Ruth Avra Designs.

"With its amazing history of representing up-and-coming designers, GenArt's SHOP MIAMI event was the perfect venue for me to showcase my collections. I had an amazing time interacting with the people who love my work," said Ruth. "I am definitely going to be back next year."

Loved by celebrities Brooke Burke, Rachel Perry and Gabriel Mann and featured in several national magazines, TV shows and movies, Ruth Avra has grown to be a leader in the accessory design industry in South Florida. All of Ruth's designs, from conception through to production and finishing, are handmade in her South Florida studio. As well as her new Signature Collection, Ruth Avra offers the Metal Collection and the Men's Collection, which blur the line between art and fashion. All of Ruth Avra's collections are available online at www.ruthavra.com and in high-end retailers nationwide.

Repost from Media contact (Jennifer Rodrigues)

Kate Moss New Clothing Line!

Breaking News--
Bad girl Kate Moss steps off the catwalk and back to the drawing board, starting her own clothing line based on her Bohemian style. Look for the line starting May 1st to be launched in London.

The finer things in life: Chopard event

On Thursday, April 26th, luxury watch, jewelry and accessories company Chopard joined the restaurant The Forge to bring South Florida’s elite together for a gentlemen’s evening of exquisite watches, fine dining, exotic spirits and exceptional cigars.

The intimate event began with a sneak preview of Chopard’s “L.U.C Chrono One,” the concept watch issued for the 10th anniversary of its manufacturer in Fleurier, Switzerland, as well as other fine timepieces from the Chopard collection. Accompanied by Marc Hruschka, President and CEO of Chopard U.S.A, guests enjoyed a lavish steak dinner, Padrón Cigars, Dewar’s 12 Scotch while watching a model presentation by Jikki.

“We are incredibly honored this evening to be given the opportunity to showcase Chopard’s L.U.C timepiece together with the Forge, Padrón Cigars and Dewar’s to an incredible group of South Florida men,” said Marc Hruschka. “Great relationships are formed while enjoying life’s finest things!”

In attendance were Marc Hruschka, President and CEO of Chopard U.S.A; Scott Maroon, Boutique Manager for Bal Harbour and Palm Beach Chopard boutiques; Shareef Malnik, Owner of The Forge; Josh Woodward, Owner of Table 8; Michael Gongora, Miami Commissioner; Louis Canales, South Beach nightlife impresario; Jose Padrón, Owner of Padrón Cigars and Brian Long, Celebrity Publicist.

There are few jewelers in the world whose designs are immediately recognizable. At the forefront of that list is Chopard. For over 140 years, the “World of Chopard” has embraced elegance, originality and individuality. Meticulously crafted in Geneva, Switzerland since 1860, Chopard has distinguished itself worldwide for luxurious jewels and impeccably crafted, high-precision timepieces that embody imaginative design and sophistication.

Written from Press Release generated by Public Relations Company---Tara Ink!

Miami Fashion Week

9th Annual Miami Fashion Week(R) Hits Miami April 13-16, 2007
PR Newswire
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MIAMI, March 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Miami Fashion Week(R), the official fashion event for the City of Miami Beach and the largest Latin American fashion event in the US, explodes onto the scene with over 70 of the world's most talented fashion designers in women's eveningwear and pret-a-porter, men's wear, jewelry and accessories from April 13-16, 2007. Being held at The Wynwood Pavilion in Miami's new Wynwood Arts District, this spectacular event brings together fashion, beauty, music and art with a crossover of international style and culture from designers, entertainers and celebrities from all over the world including Spain, India and Italy among others.

The four-day event will also include educational seminars on international trends forecasting by Global Purchasing Group sponsored by Lalique, a business panel discussion sponsored by Citibank, moderated by Charlotte Gallogly, President of the World Trade Center in Miami with a variety of international industry leaders including the world's largest apparel law firm; Sandler, Travis and Rosenberg, P.A. and international apparel distributor; IMEX Trading. Also included will be celebrity appearances and VIP after parties at Miami Beach's hottest venues. More than 600 international media representatives from over 36 countries will cover this incredible fashion and entertainment event.

Miami Fashion Week(R) kicks off its festivities with a press conference on April 13th leading into the Lingerie/Swimwear Showcase followed by the Miami Style Showcase featuring the best designers in Miami including Julian Chang, Nicolas Felizola, Frivole, Ana Maria Guiulfo, Leo Koel and Susan Elias.

Attracting an array of the most talented emerging and established designers in the world, Miami Fashion Week(R) will present the latest collections by designers Cecilia Perez, Jeronima Palacio, Monica Bursztyn and John Estrada from Colombia, MLO and Trizia from Argentina, Brazil's Tereza Santos and Aline Alcantara, Panama's Federico Visuetti, Jaime Luna and Edda Gonzalez, India's Suhani Pittie, Paridhi Sahai, Chandni Munjal and Peacock Couture, Mexico's Julia y Renata, Jose Maria Torre, Marvin & Quetzal, Maringo and Samuel Burstein, Italy's Fernando Bustamante, plus many more designers from Spain, Peru, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Peru, USA and the Caribbean islands of Barbados and The Bahamas.

Among other young and talented rising stars, students from A.i. Miami International University of Art and Design and the Universidad Autonoma del Caribe from Barranquilla, Colombia will each showcase their student's designs in separate runway shows.

The Miami Fashion Week(R) Special Guest and 2007 Designer of the Year is Lecoanet Hemant (LH) famed designer duo of Frenchman Didier Lecoanet and Indo- German Hemant Sagar. With a career that began in Paris and spanning over two decades, they have been the recipients of many international awards including "The Golden Thimble Award" for the most creative and Elegant Collection of the Haute Couture season in Paris in 1994 and the "Swarovski Creation Prize of the City of Paris" in 2005, among many others. LH recently relocated to India to set up an exclusive manufacturing and production of the Lecoanet Hemant collections inspired by their years of Haute Couture in Paris, and also manufacture and partially design collections for other prestigious brands including: Kenzo, Ines de La Fressange and Pierre Balmain. Hemant, the menswear designer of the duo will launch his much anticipated men's collection along with the latest women's line at Miami Fashion Week(R).

Closing the week-long fashion celebration will be the star-studded Miami Moda & Music Awards(R) hosted by Candela Ferro and Alfonso (Poncho) de Anda. A variety of fashion and music awards will be presented this evening along with performances by some of the hottest new entertainers in the market.

Official media partners are Terra Networks, USA the world's largest Spanish language Internet portal featuring a Miami Fashion Week(R) mini site with the Mujer Channel, Body Channel, the official Spanish language Fashion & Entertainment cable television partner and producers of a live Satellite Transmission of the MFW top runways and especial programs that will be broadcast throughout South and Central America, Florida International Magazine, Two Mundos Magazine and the event is also supported by various additional media partners worldwide.

Miami Fashion Week(R) would like to extend a special thank you to the City of Miami Beach, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Tourist Development Council for their continued support of the event over the past nine years.

Miami Fashion Week(R) is open to the public. For advanced ticket sales, schedules, press and buyer's registration, discounted hotel reservations and further information please visit http://www.miamifashionweek.com/

Beth Sobol of Sobol Fashion Productions, Inc., founded Miami Fashion Week(R) in 1999 to provide a forum offering international exposure for designers from Latin America. During the past eight years, it has developed into one of the world's premier fashion events spotlighting designers from Europe, USA and Canada, the Caribbean, Middle East and Asia as well as the largest showcase of Latin American design talent in the United States.

PRESS CONTACT: VANESSA POSKANZER KSVP MEDIA & EVENTS 305.604.5787 VANESSA@KSVPMEDIA.COMMiami Fashion Week(R)

Web site: http://www.miamifashionweek.com/

Source: PR Newswire

Vidal Sassoon & other hairdressers give homeless a home

Today a giant in the hairdressing world, Vidal Sassoon was once without a home as a young boy during the Great Depression, given by his mother to an orphanage only to be reunited later and given a home of their own by the English government. He started his career as a shampoo boy at the age of 14. Today, this hairdressing guru has a chance to give back to others and he did so following Hurricane Katrina and encourages other hairdressers to do the same. In conjunction with Mary Rector-Gable, he started Hairdressers Unlocking Home, comprised of a group of hairdressers whose goal is to make a difference in New Orleans by rebuilding one home at a time. You can join the cause by donating or by buying a special Vidal Sassoon T-Shirt! To find out more, visit http://www.behindthechairexchange.com.

Miami Fashion Week hubbub

There is a lot going on in Miami with fashion week here including Victoria's Secret Models, fashion show galore and a whole lotta people! Have you gone to any of the events? If so, please let me know!!

Also, see the new pics of the Miami Hair Show I posted as well as a video reel of some of fashion week. Enjoy!

Spring Has Sprung: Feminine & Flirty

Colored Lips
Spring has sprung and color is back! The days of nude colors are going by the wayside, being pushed over by colors like coral and red. Even purple thanks to Marc Jacobs, who renewed the Donna Karan phenomeon of previous season.

Pretty and Playful
Springtime is all about romance and being pretty, especially this year. Think volume, whether its puffy sleeves or a tulip skirt.

Belt-It
Belts are still in. I think a scarf is a little softer for spring and a perfect accessory. You can also wrap it around your head to mimic Prada's new turban.
High-Waist
Shorts and pants move upward-- meaning high-waist.

Metallic Passions
Metallic are still everywhere. Pull out your studs, slip on some silver shoes and even light up the night with silver shadows and gold liner. If they do it on the runway, you can do it again. Dramatic, yes! But you only live once! Remember fashion is all about fun!

Walking Tall
Shoes are still platformed, although more elegant and less chunky.

Natural Glow
Keep your makeup fresh and simple, nothing overly done for daytime. Nighttime is the right time for extra glam. I use Napoleon Perdis' Barely Blushing for both my cheeks and lips for a natural glow. It is a bit playful and very youthful as well. And who couldn't use that!

Bright Eyes
Smoky eyes are not necessarily out for Spring, just mix it with some lighter shades--a blue, pink or green mixed with a bronze is an interesting Summery mix!

For mascara, I usually only line the top to avoid a Tyra Banks mishap of creating a doll face look/ Twiggy look. But it depends on what you are wearing. If the retro '60s look is what you want, perfect--especially if using white shadows with black liner. But for most days, I just line the top and use either Giorgio Armani, which pulls the lashes gently outward, lengthening, and Maybelline XXL Volume, which does as it says.

False lashes are also very in. I learned a trick at the Miami Hair Show last weekend-- instead of a full set, use only a few individual lashes on the outside and put them on from underneath rather than on top in order to make them look more natural!

Rose McGowen is red and black and white all over?
Did you see Rose McGowen in interviews for "Grindhouse"??? She was an old- school lash wearer. Haha. I think that is a bit much for everyday wear. I've caught Eva Longoria among others doing the same. It is certainly good for glamour days I suppose. I also have to say that Rose looked a bit older probably because of the stark red lipstick and eyelashes against her ultra-pale skin. Now, I've been known to sport this look once in awhile...We all need a bit of Betty Paige now and again.

But I feel that warmer, more golden tones look more youthful, or even pink--but avoid too much pastel. For a great pink-toned look, check out the Giorgio Armani site. They give step by step instructions on how to acheive the look!

Video posts and radio show

Hi all! Sorry I haven't posted recently. I have been concentrating on my radio show. I encourage you all to take a listen. Just go to www.blogtalkradio.com and type in fashion and scroll down to Let's Talk Fashion.

Also, I have some videos I would like to put up here and am not sure how. If anyone has an idea, let me know. I also have been unable to post on You Tube.

Thanks for the help!

If you want to be a guest blogger on here, let me know!

Miami International Hair Show

I attended the hair show last weekend. Did you? It was held at the convention center and they had everything from hair extensions to hair brushes for sale as well as the latest products and hair cutting and coloring demonstrations. They had private classes in separate rooms as well as full-blown extravaganzas on the main stage.

I met a lot of interesting individuals and got half of a spray on tan. Ha! I a going to try to figure out how to put my video on the blog and will attempt to put more info. on individual companies who attended the show as well soon.

Let's Talk Fashion Radio Show Tomorrow!

Tune into the second show on Let's Talk Fashion by tuning into www.blogtalkradio.com and searching for fashion and finding me or try www.blogtalkradio.com/creativerachel. The show starts at 4:00 p.m. EST.

The topic: trends for Fall 2007.

Am I wrong? Have another trend I have left out? Would you prefer another topic? Please call into the show and let me know or email me at ravenprods@yahoo.com.

handbags

Have you seen Mandarina's cool bag? Take a look at them! This is a softer approach to the big bag trend and it is worn to wrap over the neck and shoulder--which is the way that I always wear my purse. I find it much more conveneient.

What do you think? Do you like the big bag trend anyway? I know chic totes in lollypop colors with metallic sparkle are also in. What do you prefer?

Fall's colors look a lot like money

Notice that many of Fall's colors look a little like money? When I look at the Mercedes-Benz fashion show in LA, I see many long classy looks colored in tones of copper and other metals, money green and also a leaf brown-- very seasonal. But Kevan Hall turned my head with his bright pastels--very different, very much standing out--way to go Kevan. Some of the fashions not shown here include a real mish mash of colors and styles that I just did not find appealing. I appreciated the long lines and graceful curves of many of the collections I have chosen to show here, as well as the sophisticated and sexy billowing material.

What do you think?

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week LA

Did you attend the fashion show? If so, let me know. I am looking for guest bloggers on the event!

Take a look at the pictures of some of the fashions that caught my eye (included here).

I will be doing a broader post probably tomorrow so stay tuned!

George Sharp of Ellen Tracy goes to Boca's Bloomingdale's

(Reprint from Bloomigdale's in-house PR dept.)
BLOOMINGDALE’S BOCA RATON WELCOMED
ELLEN TRACY’S VICE PRESIDENT OF DESIGN GEORGE SHARP FOR AN EXCLUSIVE PERSONAL APPEARANCE


BOCA RATON, FL – Bloomingdale’s Boca Raton recently welcomed George Sharp, Vice President of Design for Ellen Tracy, during an exclusive personal appearance and fashion preview. Guests enjoyed a private cocktail reception, makeovers by Chanel, spa treatments by Eden Day Spa, live music and informal modeling. Ellen Tracy clients were intrigued by his passion for the Spring Collection. “For me, the appeal of Ellen Tracy is the ability to give women a refined, luxe product. I love what Ellen Tracy offers; elegant, sophisticated looks for a modern woman who is increasingly fashion savvy, but who always like to be appropriately dressed for her lifestyle,” explains Sharp.

Appointed Vice President of Design for Ellen Tracy in April of 2005, Sharp was formerly was head of the Escada collection and based in Munich, Germany. “George’s sense of color and luxury marries beautifully with the Ellen Tracy sensibility” says Ellen Tracy president, Howard Rosenberger. Sharp has been in the fashion business since 1983 when he started his own collection. He took over the position of head designer for Escada in 2001.

First Show

Check out a recap of my first Lets Talk Fashion Show by clicking play below. Please give me feedback. What do you think of the content? format? Do you think I need more of one thing or another? Do you prefer news flashes or trend tracking? What topic would you like covered?

I am looking for people in the fashion field to feature and to interview. Know anyone? Maybe it's you? Email me ravenprods@yahoo.com. Have a product you would like me to talk about on the air? Send it to me at PO BOX 970847, Coconut Creek, FL 33097. Let me know via email first. Also send pics!

Ok, click below because here is the show!

www.blogtalkradio.com/creativerachel

BlogTalkRadio

Don't miss my first talk show on LetsTalkFashion at 4:00 PM EST today! I will be doing a re-cap of many of the latest happenings profiled here and also some new ones so stay tuned!!!

Tune into www.blogtalkradio.com/creativerachel

Ebony Fashion Fair

On an 8 month stint, 11 girls and three men tour the country showcasing not only the latest fashions but also encouraging others to find the beauty within themselves. This diverse show in its 49th year beings the world of fashion to the African American community and has raised over 55 million dollars since its inception for various charities including for scholarship programs.

Models here may be tall as usual (5'10" for women for example) but they also include plus size models too. The talent here does not necessarily do the regular cat walk strut. They dance, spin and interact with the audience making for an entertainment extravaganza filled with wild colors and trends ranging from demure to outlandishly glam. They focus on everything from the "look at me" swimsuit to the "wouldn't you die to have this" ballroom gown to the "I'm hip and I know it" causal wear.

The show comes to watchers in acts, like in theater, and comes with names or themes like "hot chocolate," "paisley pepper" and "night life fever." But overall, the show is "stylishly hot!"

This creation is the brain child of Eunice W. Johnson, who has traveled the world selecting only the best for her show for nearly five decades. Her pieces celebrate the beauty of the human body with everything from plunging necklines to tightly cut bodices.

In the picture, shown here, "flickering flames engulf a trumpet train gown and ombre down a dyed fox cape creating this haute couture creation that inspired the theme of the 49th annual production of Ebony Fashion Fair," according the the company Web site, describing this dress by Angelo Marani Couture as seen in the Milan show. The list of involved designer runs the gamut and span the world, including Anna Sui, Bill Blass, Marc Bouwer, Oscar De La Renta, Christian Lacroix, Pierre Cardin,Paco Rabanne, Yves Saint Laurent, Roberto Cavalli (featured in another blog posting here) and more.

Below is a schedule of some of the upcoming shows in March and April (some have already passed.) Look for a show in your town! For more information, visit www.ebonyfashionfair.com.

M by Madonna!

Natural-born fashionista Madonna is creating her own line with Margareta van den Bosch of H&M. The line launches March 22nd and features timeless neutral colors and the finest materials. They are sharply tailored and sure to garner attention yet classic and sure to make the wearer feel as confident as she looks. Madge wouldn't have it any other way!

She employs everything from puff sleeves to stiff collars, for those who want a bit of whimsy in their fashion or a bit of a right buttoned-up mum look. Her fashions look easy to wear, simple, not flashy and frilly--no nonsense. Perfect for the gal on the go who doesn't have time for the pain but always must look fabulous! Knowing Madonna, this collection will be THE "it" so be the first to buy and be IN fashion today! (It is true but I also LOVE Madonna so anything the dancing queen wants and does is fine in my book. But don't get me started.)

Look at the H&M Web site. It is equally cutting edge! www.hm.com.us.Click on the Madonna collection and explore the closet, where a young woman stands next to a mannequin wearing the first of many must-haves in the collection. You can see the outfit all the way around 360 degrees, then hit "next" and the woman spins the mannequin to reveal a new look! Accessories fly right off the shelves, literally, revealing their prices.

Make sure to look at their H&M Magazine. It is amazing!