What Happened To The First Lady Of Fashion?

What Happened To The First Lady Of Fashion?

 

Michelle Obama has been living up to her 'First Lady of Fashion' nickname this weekend in an array of bold looks.So it came as some surprise to see her watch Team USA beat the French in today's preliminary basketball game wearing an uncharacteristically understated outfit.A far cry from yesterday's mismatching monochrome and Friday's  the U.S. First Lady went for a soft grey top and matching cardigan, with cream trousers.

While it was by no means lacking in style - her hair was worn back in a ponytail and she had accessorised with a double-strand silver necklace - it lacked the bold style statements of other ensembles she has worn during this London visit.

Yesterday, for example, another jam-packed itinerary, saw Mrs Obama go for a more typically fashion-forward look to watch Ryan Lochte take Team USA's first gold medal in the 400m individual medley.The green, black and monochrome-patterned top with a triangular cut-out at the neckline was a $138 design by BCBG Max Azria.

Earlier that day, for Serena Williams' opening tennis match against Serbian Jelena Jankovic, she was seen in prints again, in an artfully clashing number from one of her favourite designers, Tracey Reese.The $388 dress, from the label's latest collection, was designed to look like a patterned top and checked skirt, creating a daring multi-textured look.

But perhaps Mrs Obama's decision to play it low-key today is a reaction to criticism for her rather more divisive fashion choices on Friday.Though the dazzling J Mendel jacket and skirt worn for a pre-Opening Ceremony Buckingham Palace reception won critical acclaim from the style set, some political commentators are furious that she elected to wear a garment that cost $6,800.

The design was almost armour-like in style and embroidered in shimmering silver, with cap sleeves that showed off those famously toned arms.
However Gateway Pundit has taken issue with the fact that the design 'cost more than the average American family makes in a month ($4,284)'.'She does this as Americans continue to suffer through a deep recession and record unemployment,' writer Jim Hoft said. 'Michelle feels your pain.'

Style Icon: Mandira Bedi

Style Icon: Style Icon: Mandira Bedi

The 40-year-old actor, TV show presenter and model has made it to The Express Tribune’s list of fashion icons thanks to her vibrant sense of fashion. With her svelte figure which can rock anything from a little black dress to a sari, Mandira enjoys playing with colours and cuts. So what’s her style philosophy?

“I don’t have any style mantra,” Mandira tells Indian publication SantaBanta. “I believe in wearing something that goes well with my personality and makes me feel comfortable.”

Be it a vibrant Satya Paul sari or a funky jumpsuit, Mandira’s exudes effervescence with bright shades and accessories. “At times I go for a clean look, as I don’t think I can put on my accessories with everything I wear. It needs to gel well with the complete look,” she says.

While she is currently sporting a pixie haircut, she says that people should not become victims of fashion trends. “There are many things that are in vogue but may not look good on me. So I don’t follow fashion blindly. One should wear clothes that sync with the person’s personality,” she says.

Hot Topic Launches Apparel Line - Royal Bones By Daang

Hot Topic Launches Apparel Line - Royal Bones By Daang

 

 

Daang Goodman, designer and purveyor of street fashion brand Tripp NYC, has expanded her collection with a new line exclusively for Hot Topic called Royal Bones by Daang.Designed within the Tripp NYC sensibility, Royal Bones by Daang reflects New York City’s underground street culture and rock 'n' roll lifestyle. The collection will include everything from skinny jeans and shredded tees to skull-printed dresses and sexy corsets, and is available exclusively in Hot Topic’s 620 stores and online.

“Hot topic customers are individualistic – just like me. They like to wear clothes that make them stand out – and that’s what I’ve been designing for them for years,” says Daang. “Royal Bones by Daang is a great opportunity to take our long-standing relationship with Hot Topic to a whole new level.”

Daang’s love for apparel design was born when she was a young woman. She found herself designing and making her own clothes in order to create an edgy look that was reflective of her lifestyle. She developed clothes for Trash & Vaudeville – a mainstay of alternative fashion on St. Mark’s Place in New York City. There, rockers, mods, punks, goths, rockabillies and everyday working-class heroes who just wanted to walk and dress on the wild side could find “rock n roll to wear.” Daang’s Tripp line very quickly became popular among the locals, as well as well-known music artists.

Years later, Hot Topic’s VP and General Merchandise Manager Cindy Levitt met Daang at an industry trade show. “We realized we have a very similar customer,” recalls Daang. “Hot Topic helped us bring Tripp to like-minded people all over the country.”

“It was no surprise to us that Daang’s designs were a huge hit for our customers – and they have continued to be over the years,” said Levitt. “We’re excited to see our customers’ reaction to what we think is an impressive collection that can only be found here at Hot Topic.”Royal Bones by Daang is available in all Hot Topic stores and online. The collection includes dresses, fashion tops and skinny jeans in a variety of colors and at a competitive price point.

Hot Topic is a mall- and web-based specialty retailer beloved by rebellious teens for more than 20 years. Hot Topic stores reflect the latest trends in music and pop culture, offering band-related apparel and accessories, licensed merchandise and fashion apparel and accessories to an edgy subculture of expressive individuals.

Something For Everyone At Taw Win Fashion Day

Something For Everyone At Taw Win Fashion Day

 

THE Talents and Models Fashion Day at Taw Win Centre on July 14 delighted the audience with its abundance of fresh new faces.For those living in Yangon, it is also possibly the year’s best opportunity to catch a glimpse of Myanmar’s virtual South Korean pop stars and divas. Despite a collective lack of experience, the majority of the show’s 84 models strutted along the catwalk with as much finesse as their professional counterparts.

There was a noticeable difference between this year’s show and previous ones.In 2012 there was a diversity of skin colour, body size and shape. The notorious one-size-fits-all “rule” for models appeared to be far more relaxed – it was a striking new approach that ought to be applauded.The audience benefitted from the display of a wide variety of fashion styles – some of which were designed to bring out the best in women with a fuller figure than that of the traditional “clothes hanger.”

The show was choreographed in groups of five to seven models, with each group representing a different sponsor whose designs are featured in stores at Taw Win Centre As well as showcasing a variety of trendy local labels, the textures, colours and patterns of the fabric complemented the stylists’ choice of hair and make-up particularly well.

Fashion sponsors included Orchid House, Fashion Place, Azreal, Heart Link, Blanco, Berry, Nan Wadi, Cherry, Bangkok Fashion, External, Forever, Dolphin and Iora.As the hands of the clock struck 3pm, the tunes spun by DJ Paing Pyae became louder, thereby swelling audience numbers to about 100 Former model-turned-MC Ma Moe had warmed up the audience with characteristic charm and humour; though nothing less would be expected from someone with thousands of MC performances under her slender belt.

After spending two hours backstage having make-up applied while fashionistas scrutinised the final touches of outfits, the models gathered at the wings of the runway displaying varying degrees of composure: Some appeared downright nervous, while others bubbled over with excitement, talking and jostling like teenagers at school Yet after emerging from the shadows of the perimeter, the young women transformed into composed professionals. Some were so breathtakingly beautiful they could easily have been mistaken for supermodels.

The audience cheered enthusiastically when the first five models strutted along the stage then turned on their oh-so-high heels after a brief pout or smile according to how they were dressed: sexy, sweet, demure or elegant.The photographers were pushing each other around to gain the best vantage point while somehow snapping shots without a half-second pause. A young boy who appeared about five years old seemed to be really enjoying the performance. His mouth was wide open, his eyes were bright and barely blinking and his smile stretched a mile every time a model walked towards the tip of the runway.

It wasn’t only the female models that were making a big impact on the crowd: The ridiculously handsome male models were right on par and drew the loudest screams from the lady-boys in attendance. Some of the girls were stunned into silence by their playboy appearance.The two-and-a-half-hour long model show held the public’s excitement from beginning to end. Every fashion sponsor appeared highly pleased with the results, which is of course no surprise as it’s likely that it sent sales in Taw Win Centre soaring mid-monsoon season.

Lauren Conrad Launches Eco-Friendly Accessories Lines

Lauren Conrad Launches Eco-Friendly Accessories Lines

Reality TV star-turned-fashion designer Lauren Conrad is set to launch an eco-friendly accessories lines.The Hills star has teamed up with bosses at BlueAvocado to create XO(eco), a collection of cosmetic bags, lunch totes and shopping carryalls made from recycled water bottles.

She says, "We wanted to create an eco collection of functional, really cute products so that people can be doing a good thing but also look good while they're doing it".

The line will be sold exclusively via shopping network Amazon.com.It is the blonde beauty's latest extension of her fashion brand - she already has two clothing ranges LC Lauren Conrad and Paper Crown.

How Designers Are Getting Inventive With Arts And Crafts Skills To Create New Fashions

How Designers Are Getting Inventive With Arts And Crafts Skills To Create New Fashions

THE line between art and fashion is often blurred, or at times non existent, with much haute couture fashion certainly describable as works of art and with a growing emphasis on handmade fashion also starting to compete with the High Street, crafty creations are also working their way into the fashion scene.One example of this is Towcester designer Lizzi Bucklow-Holt’s collection of accessories and children’s wear, BizziZizzi, featuring many ways to get creative with your look.

Among Lizzi’s crafty range are children’s clothes inspired by fictional characters, and creative clay buttons and beads, hats and crochet fascinators.I have been been crafting one thing or another since I was really little,said the 41-year-old mum to three.I was the child trying to create things out of the wrapping paper rather than looking at the presents.I have practically tried every craft over the years, teaching myself through reading books, going to workshops, YouTube...

Crafts were always my hobby, but when I turned 40, I started to reassess the priorities in my life and wanted to try and make that hobby into a business.”BizziZizzi started in April, and is now stocked in A Most Marvellous Place to Shop and sold through the website www.bizzizizzi.co.uk.It has also featured on Kirstie Allsopp’s ‘Homemade Home.

I tend to create things that are really colourful, as well as looking at the seasons coming up and things that are on trend.
I do some styles of crochet slippers and I’m going to be do an Ugg boot style in those, which is obviously picking up on a very popular trend.But I also do more classic things like a dolly shoe style.

I also take inspiration from fiction. I do A Hungry Caterpillar outfit for kids...I can’t seem to make enough of those.I am also looking at doing a Where’s Wally? and Dennis the Menace outfit.

I do a lot of baby things, which take quite a lot of time to make, but I think that make them more special.I hope the things that I make can be kept and passed on.I create buttons and beads from Polymer Clay, and although I don’t make jewelry from them, I sell them to other people who do like Fifth Element.

The buttons are unusual and a great way to jazz up an outfit or make something a bit more unusual.I hate throwing things away, so if you can add something and make something a little bit new with a small change that’s great.I made some Union Jack buttons, which have been really popular with all the events going on this year.

If you like Lizzi’s creations, there may be a chance to pick-up some of her creative skills in the future I would like to start teaching some courses about how use Polymer Clay, so that people can make some of their own things, which I’m thinking of doing in September.

How Much Weight Has Jessica Simpson Lost Since Giving Birth to Maxwell Drew?

How Much Weight Has Jessica Simpson Lost Since Giving Birth to Maxwell Drew?

How much weight has Jessica Simpson lost since giving birth to daughter Maxwell Drew in May?

The blonde singer and fashionista reportedly piled on a whopping 70 pounds to her 5 foot 3 inch frame during her pregnancy and now is looking to get her body back into shape post pregnancy and though she still won't say where she is on the scale, a pal says she is “working very hard” to lose weight.

The ‘Fashion Star’ mentor gave birth to her first daughter named Maxwell Drew on May 1 and signed a $4 million contract with weight-loss brand Weight Watchers to become a representative for them.Now, even though she knows her image change will not be drastic, Jessica is excited about the expected transformation.A friend told People.com about the star: "She understands it's a process. [She is] working very hard and she's excited."After welcoming her child with Eric Johnson to the world, she said; "For me, I really want to do something that is a lifestyle. In the past I've been known to yo-yo diet."

The 31-year-old actress has instead been focused on losing weight gradually.She has denied that there is a deadline for her to lose her post-baby weight and a representative for the company backed up her claim recently.A spokesperson previously said: "Weight Watchers is in it for the long haul. We're with her 100 percent as she develops a whole new relationship with food and activity."

Comment My Brand Of Religion

Comment: My Brand Of Religion

Television channels are putting their best foot forward (as far as religious shows are concerned) in Ramazan. Whether it is Veena (famous for standoff debate with a Maulana on TV), Dr Aamir Liaquat (accused of inciting feelings of hatred against members of the Ahmadi community, resulting in many killings), Mubasher Lucman (exposed as an ally of Malik Riaz of Bahria Town fame, who claimed to have bribed journalists) or Maya Khan (of date-spotting fame) – they will all be selling their own brand of religion to the large majority of Pakistan. A number of fundamental questions stem from this situation: should we give powers of propagating different brands of religion like this on television to hosts? Are we ready to bear the consequences as a result? How is it that we can control this situation?

Regulation or lack thereof

Regulation has often been overlooked by private TV channels since independence was granted to them in a democratic fashion (ironically by a dictator). One does hear of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) sending notices to channels for airing unsolicited and questionable content. But do they have a policy that is being followed by the television channels in general and one that is positioned to address issues arising as a result of airing religious shows? “Pemra doesn’t have direct intervention in hiring and firing show hosts,” says one official from the body. “We don’t micro-manage it. These decisions are made by media owners.”

Sensationalism kills

If the programme doesn’t have ‘masala’, it is unlikely to soar on the ratings chart. It is the same school of thought that has found its way into religious programmes, albeit promising more dire consequences. Whether it is spending a night in the grave to pray to Allah, crying endlessly for forgiveness in front of the viewers or invoking feelings of righteousness in the majority against minorities and deciding who is a ‘true’ momin (follower of Islam) and who is not – all these forms of sensationalism can have a deep impact on the viewership, especially when religion is such a sensitive topic. Producing and designing such shows with the same approach as political talk shows and news programmes is turning out to be the wrong approach. Hero TV’s decision to use Veena Malik on their Ramazan show (which has now been called off) is just one example.

Illiteracy increases responsibility

You may not have anything else but you will have a television set at home and a mobile phone in your pocket. Such is the advent of technological progress in Pakistan. This way, 60% or more people who fall beneath the literacy graph can be accessed with these tools of communication. What does that mean? It means that television channels have an increased responsibility in deciding the fate of the religious television shows. So what makes somebody like Aamir Liaquat eligible? The News reports: “Dr Aamir explained why he had returned to Geo TV and dismissed the allegations that he had done so for economic reasons. He said he wanted a platform that would disseminate his message to a larger universe and whose philosophy of ‘Geo aur jeenay do’ was close to his heart.” But like talkshow host Sana Bucha said in her interview with Newsweek Pakistan, “Why do you need someone on TV to tell you what God wants from you?”

TV show producers must realise that they have a great opportunity to introduce scholars who have command and knowledge over religion so they can guide people in the right direction and contribute in creating peace, harmony and tolerance in our society. The trend however is exactly the opposite – it is towards having opportunistic hosts who just want to create a sensation, gain popularity and in turn fool viewers in the name of religion by popularising their own brand, even if it turns out to have serious consequences.

Fashion Student Creates Stunning Dress Out Of Pages From The Daily Mail

Fashion Student Creates Stunning Dress Out Of Pages From The Daily Mail

A fashion student created a dress made out of pages from the Daily Mail and it's earned her an A grade in her A-level exam.Chloe Wright, from Bradley Stoke, Bristol, was inspired to make the eye-catching gown after a trip to Paris.Her tutors at Bristol's Patchway Community College were so impressed they awarded he a 100 per cent mark and have predicted she will easily gain an A grade.She said:
 

'The dress is made from many strips of specially selected black-and-white print from the Daily Mail, and I made a block-print pattern of the Eiffel Tower design to add to the corset.'In March, I went to Paris for five days with my boyfriend Cameron,  and gained a lot of inspiration for my work from the amazing architecture  of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame cathedral.

'I had researched Jean Paul Gaultier’s 2009 collection in which he used architecture in his designs but I also wanted to incorporate some more current ideas, and the huge ruffled Christian Dior skirts gave me the basis for my creations.'Chloe created a circular head dress by laying organza over the top of the newspaper and burning it slightly in places to expose the pages underneath.'I embroidered stitching in the design of the Notre Dame stained-glass window, including the smallest circle as an earring.'Chloe created the back of the headdress by weaving Diet Coke cans and beads on thin wire.Her 14-year-old sister, Charlotte agreed to model the unique creation.

Kate Middleton's Fake Cover Is 'Fan-Art Tribute,' Says Marie Claire

Kate Middleton's Fake Cover Is 'Fan-Art Tribute,' Says Marie Claire

Kate Middleton’s Photoshopped cover on Marie Claire South Africa has sparked controversy, but the magazine seems to claim its full rights to enjoy such “fan-art tribute" of "hyper-real illustration.”

The Duchess of Cambridge in her smile appears on the cover of Marie Claire South Africa’s August issue, dressed in a long-sleeve animal print shirt, wrapped by a red printed dress. The photo, however, was photoshopped – with Kate Middleton’s face superimposed on a model’s body dressed in designs by Sotuh African designer Clive Rundle.

“Fashion’s new royal icon wears SA’s best local designers,” reads the headline.“Of course she doesn’t. But she should,” the magazine did not forget to add a disclaimer.Some more photoshopped pictures of Kate Middleton appear inside the magazine. Aspasia Karras, editor of the magazine, chose to call the fake cover shoot “hyper-real illustration.”

“Kate Middleton is, without a doubt, the world's new style icon…. We have honored her with a fan-art tribute, dressing her up in clothes by South African designers and placing her in all sorts of fun, everyday situations," Karras told The Daily Telegraph.Karras was delighted with the overwhelming amount of response, the editor told M&G.

"We feel really thrilled to see that our cover would make it onto global world media space," she said, describing Kate Middleton’s fake cover as “fantasy.”

"Of course it was audacious but it was all in the name of fun and breaking the mould and we did it with the utmost respect for her person," she said, adding that the piece harked back to the fashion covers of yesteryear, where people used illustrations to represent fashion icons.

"I think it's important that people get into the meat of the story and debate it after that," Karras added.

"We were so inspired by her fairy-tale wedding and her life as a modern-day princess, which is why we elected Kate Middleton as our cover star for the August issue,” Marie Claire writer Marisa Crous told Yahoo News.The story inside the magazine focused on South Africa’s growing designers.Since the magazine could not book Kate Middleton herself, it included an interview with the model who provided her body to match with Kate’s smile.

“Playing Duchess for a day was a good reminder that somewhere inside of me (and all of us) resides a princess,” the model said.

Katie Holmes’ acting mentor fearlessly bashed her now-ex-husband Tom Cruise, and alleged that Holmes’ decision for divorce was made “for the sake of Suri.”

“I don’t like him. I think he’s a very domineering man,” said Said Margaret O’Brien, who operated a charm and etiquette school in Toledo, Ohio which once raised Holmes as a budding actress.

“I don’t know about their marriage, but when he announced he was with Katie on Oprah, I think it made him look ridiculous,” the 85-year-old told Celebuzz in an exclusive interview.Though it’s clear they care very much about their daughter Suri, I think she is too spoiled,” O’Brien expressed her concern about Holmes’ education of Suri.The acting mentor claims that she knows why Holmes divorced Cruise after all these years.

“There must be a very good reason for Katie divorcing Tom Cruise as she was brought up a good Catholic girl,” O”Brien said.“Katie is a good person, so there must have been major things going on to make her want to leave him. I heard from a friend she’s doing it for the sake of Suri, to make things easier for her.”

Recently, Katie Holmes has enrolled her six-year-old daughter Suri into the same Catholic school Lady Gaga once attended.The 33-year-old mother has recently been given primary custody of Suri after her divorce to actor and husband Tom Cruise last week. Suri will be educated at New York's Convent of the Sacred Heart School and she will start there this autumn.

The 50-year-old “Mission Impossible” star reportedly wanted his daughter to have a Scientology educational background but met Holmes’ opposition.Sources claim that this is one of the prime reasons for the divorce. Cruise has two other children, Isabella, 19, and 17-year-old Connor who do have a Scientology upbringing.

According to the Los Angeles Times, Suri - who was previously home-schooled - will start her classes on September 6, which will be the youngster's first open classroom format.“There’s going to be a huge hullabaloo about this,” O’Bien told the site, adding, “and the next few months aren’t going to be easy for Katie.”

British Fashion Industry Attracts Linkedin Followers

British Fashion Industry Attracts Linkedin Followers

With figures released earlier this year revealing that the British fashion industry is currently worth in the region of £21 billion to the UK economy, it's perhaps no surprise that a career in fashion is among the most sought-after by students.

Professional networking site Linkedin report that fashion brands account for four of the 10 most-watched company profiles on their site by British undergraduates. Topping the list is social media savvy label Burberry, while affordable online retailer ASOS are in third place, (one above Facebook). Fashionable department store Harrods is seventh most watched, and online luxury fashion store Net-A-Porter.com is tenth. In comparison, the global top 10 doesn't include a single fashion brand, being instead dominated by Internet, finance and software companies including Google (1), Microsoft (3), IBM (4), and Apple (10).

To compile the lists, Linkedin looked at the Company Follow, Company Page, Job and Profile viewing activity of more than 20 million students and recent graduates registered on the site, before breaking the figures down into smaller regions.

"We know one of the main reasons our members follow a company is because they want to work there," a spokesperson said.

Burgundy, The Color For Fall 2012

Burgundy, The Color For Fall 2012 

 Fashion designers couldn't get enough of the 50 shades of red this fall. Not with standing the prevalence of fire-engine red, burgundies reigned supreme on the Fall 2012 runways. Like your favorite wintner's selection, the wine colors ranged from red tinged with brown, oft called oxblood, to red tinged with purple or blue, like a good Bordeaux. These lush colors showed up on dresses, fur coats, leather skinny pants, suits, jeans, bags and shoes. Often, as at Peter Som in New York, varying shades of burgundy were combined into one look.

Aside from the hot monochromatic look of burgundy head-to-toe, the color most paired with the dark red was black. Black leather trim on an oxblood leather skirt at Tommy Hilfiger; black fur sleeves on a burgundy jacket at Jason Wu; black velvet belting a flowing Bordeaux goddess gown at Gucci. Other ways to wear burgundy? With rich fall colors like burnt orange and cobalt blue or more subdued with olive green and camel.

For those used to navy and black, burgundy is a good color to try. It looks great on most complexions and blends seamlessly into any wardrobe. Celebrities - Natalie Portman at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Emma Stone at the Golden Globes - have turned to the elegant color for red carpet appearances.

Rihanna To Design Clothing Collection For River Island

 

River Island is delighted to announce an exciting and exclusive collaboration with Rihanna; she will be designing her first clothing collection for River Island. The capsule collection will launch in Spring 2013.

Rihanna said:

“I’ve been wanting to design my own collection for some time. River Island is the perfect partner for me to collaborate with and working with a British, family run business also really appealed to me. I find London really inspiring and River Island loves to have fun with clothes. I’m looking forward to working with them and creating something really special.”

River Island is a brand with Great British heritage. Founded and based in London, the business was created and is managed by the Lewis family. With design at the heart of the business River Island continues to grow globally as it enters its 64th year. River Island has over 300 stores in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Russia, Holland, Poland, Belgium, Middle East and Far East and offers worldwide shipping through its website.

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Rihanna and to be the first fashion brand to work with her in this way,”River Island chief executive Ben Lewis added. “Rihanna is a style icon, from street to chic she enjoys her fashion. As soon as we started to work together we knew this was a perfect fit. Rihanna will be designing the collection and we will be sharing our fashion experience with her to develop a range her fans will love.”

The brand is positioned as a fast-moving fashion business offering great value and distinctive women’s, men’s and kid’s clothing, footwear and accessories.With over 60 years of fashion retailing experience, River Island is one of the most successful companies on the High Street.River Island has nearly 300 stores across the UK, Ireland and internationally throughout Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

Rihanna To Design A Capsule Collection With River Island

 Rihanna To Design A Capsule Collection With River Island

 

We've been wondering how long it would take for Rihanna to design her own fashion line, and it's just been revealed that she'll be launching a capsule collection for Spring 2013 with British high street store River Island.

As far as we're concerned, this is the perfect partnership. River Island has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years, offering affordable takes on catwalk trends and never shying away from difficult or edgy looks. Known for its strong prints, heavy embellishment and amazing accessories, the brand is a brilliant match for fearless fashion fan Rihanna.

Rihanna says of the collection, "I've been wanting to design my own collection for some time. River Island is the perfect partner for me to collaborate with and working with a British, family run business also really appealed to me. I find London really inspiring and River Island loves to have fun with clothes. I'm looking forward to working with them and creating something really special."

NewHead Of Fashion And CEO For Nelly

 NewHead Of Fashion And CEO For Nelly

 

CDON Group AB, the leading e-commerce group in the Nordic region, announced the appointment of Magnus Månsson as the Group’s new Head of Fashion and Chief Executive Officer for Nelly.com. As the Head of Fashion, he will also be part of the Group’s executive management team.

Magnus Månsson comes from a leading position within New Wave Group AB, where he served as CEO for the business unit New Wave Sports and the clothing company Craft. Prior to this Magnus has, among other things, worked at Tretorn and Nike.

Paul Fischbein, President and CEO of CDON group commented: ”We are delighted to announce Magnus Månsson’s appointment within the Group. Magnus has an in depth knowledge and experience of the international clothing industry and the leadership skills needed as Nelly will take their next step towards becoming an international fashion e-retailer."

Magnus Månsson commented: ”Nelly.com is an exiting company with high growth and highly set ambitions. I’m looking forward to the upcoming challenges and I believe that my experience from the industry, as well as my experience as a leader, will benefit the continuous development of Nelly.com.”

Comic-Con 2012: Comic Book-Inspired Fashion

 

 Today marks the opening day of the annual Comic-Con International. The San Diego convention has evolved into a popular mecca for comic book lovers to mingle and share their passion for the medium  not to mention dress up as some of their favorite characters.

Those of us in the fashion industry are increasingly feeling the influence of comics. DC Comics, for example, is building a legacy of fashion collaborations (past partnerships include Lanvin and Pierre Hardy). Designers are also sending comic-inspired looks down the runway. Contemporary footwear virtuosos Jeffrey Campbell and Giuseppe Zanotti have recently contributed to the comic craze with limited-edition footwear that incorporates a vintage pulp comic print and a snazzy Spiderman influence, respectively.

Even if you can’t join in on the fun in San Diego over the next few days, you can always flaunt your love of comic books with a plethora of fashion choices.

Victoria Beckham Says 'It's Hard' Being A Working Mum

Victoria Beckham Says 'It's Hard' Being A Working Mum 

 

 

She’s 38, a wife, mother of four – and she’s also at the helm of a fashion empire with an estimated turnover of £60million. Not bad, eh? But Victoria Beckham says that despite glamorous appearances, she faces the same daily struggles juggling her family and career.‘Being a mum is difficult,’ she said in a recent interview with British Airways’ Business Life Magazine. ‘There’s no rule book, I’m just doing the best I can for David and for them.’

As wife to beautiful David, and mum to Brooklyn, 13, Romeo, nine, Cruz, seven and one-year-old Harper, we’re not surprised she’s stressed. And Victoria even admitted that baby Harper goes to work with her each day too, travelling with her all around the world.'I work hard but a lot of people work hard,' she continued. 'My husband and my kids are my priority. I schedule my work around my children. Harper comes with me everywhere. The boys came when they were little but they’re at school now.'

Phew! Hats off to her we say - and Samantha Parker does too. She wrote on Grazia UK's Facebook page, 'I'm a mum of three young children and I am lucky enough that I don't work and I still find it really hard sometimes.'Fair play to her - she always seems to be pictured with her family on outings etc, and carrying her baby and I understand they rely on family to help and not a team of nannies which is nice to hear.'

Amanda Wilkes agrees. 'The cynical part of me thinks she's just saying it to sound more 'real' and less like a multi-millionaire businesswoman with nannies and an army of helpers at her disposal,' she wrote on Facebook. 'But the non-cynical side of me feels that she has every right to a have a successful career AND a family and as a working Mum, I know exactly where she's coming from about juggling a busy schedule.'

And it’s great to hear that Victoria is voicing and acknowledging the feelings of millions of women across the country – isn’t it?

Verona Hanlon says not. ‘Yes it's probably tough for her,’ she wrote on Grazia UK’s Facebook page. ‘But she should also be empathetic to how much tougher it is for other mothers doing the same thing but who don’t have the privilege of doing it first class & with help at her disposal!’

Rihanna's Ready To Rock The UK Reality TV World

 

 Rihanna’s been spending a lot of time in the UK lately, and now we know why!Aside from performing at countless music events like the Wireless Festival and Radio Hackney Weekend, it looks like RiRi has been taking a dip into the cray cray world of reality TV.

It’s be confirmed that our favorite Good Girl Gone Bad will be executive producing and appearing on the upcoming UK style competition, Styled To Rock.

Check out the first look at the show and RiRi (above)Gurl looks Ahmazing And what better stylish pop princess to partake in a fashion competition show?The series will air on the UK’s Sky Living HD network in August and the final challenge of the comp. will be to come up with a design for one of Rihanna’s show performances!

How cool!

The Barbadian songstress will be moving to England during production…so get ready to lick the icing off for your girl, Rihanna Navy UK!!!

Qatari Royal Family Buys Iconic Italian Fashion House Valentino

Qatari Royal Family Buys Iconic Italian Fashion House Valentino

 

 

Mayhoola for Investments S.P.C, an investment vehicle of the Qatari royal family, has acquired iconic Italian fashion house Valentino Fashion Group SpA for €700 million ($857 million), making it one of the biggest acquisitions of a leading European designer brand by a Middle East investor.

Valentino did not disclose the identity of the buyer, but British media recently reported that Qatar's royal family was in talks to buy the brand for about £550-600 million.

Valentino that once made dresses for Sophia Loren, is 80 per cent owned by London-based private equity fund Permira and the remaining 20 per cent by Italian textile giant Marzotto Group.

Valentino chief executive Stefano Sassi said he was "delighted" with the acquisition. "During the past few years, despite swings in the luxury markets, the company has operated with great intensity and remained focused on maximising the potential of the Valentino brand.''

Mayhoola for Investments S.P.C, an investment vehicle of the Qatari royal family, has acquired iconic Italian fashion house Valentino Fashion Group SpA for €700 million ($857 million), making it one of the biggest acquisitions of a leading European designer brand by a Middle East investor.

Valentino did not disclose the identity of the buyer, but British media recently reported that Qatar's royal family was in talks to buy the brand for about £550-600 million.Valentino that once made dresses for Sophia Loren, is 80 per cent owned by London-based private equity fund Permira and the remaining 20 per cent by Italian textile giant Marzotto Group.

Valentino chief executive Stefano Sassi said he was "delighted" with the acquisition. "During the past few years, despite swings in the luxury markets, the company has operated with great intensity and remained focused on maximising the potential of the Valentino brand.''

"This effort should drive a 60 per cent increase in revenues from 2009 to 2012. Our new shareholder will help us to reach our full potential," he said.

Milan-based Valentino was founded in 1960 by Paris-trained Valentino Garavani. It operates in over 70 countries and has more than 700 single-brand boutiques and 112 directly managed shops.
 
Valentino, whose current clients include Hollywood actresses Jennifer Aniston, Keira Knightley and Cameron Diaz, became famous after Valentino designed the wedding dress for Jacqueline Onassis in 1968ino designed the wedding dress for Jacqueline Onassis in 1968.

Wedding Dress Designer Vera Wang Splits From Hubby

Wedding Dress Designer Vera Wang Splits From Hubby 

  Designer Vera Wang has split from her husband, just two weeks before their 23rd wedding anniversary.The famed wedding dress creator and Arthur Becker have parted ways on good terms and remain “devoted” to their two children, Cecilia and Josephine, according to their split announcement on Wednesday.

In a statement to fashion website Women's Wear Daily, Wang's company president Mario Grauso writes, “Vera Wang and Arthur Becker have mutually and amicably agreed to separate. They remain devoted parents to their two daughters.”Wang, who married Becker in 1989, has made wedding dresses worn by stars including Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, Hilary Duff and Kim Kardashian.

As Preen Return To London Fashion Weak

As Preen Return To London Fashion Weak

  
After six years showing at New York Fashion Week, London design duo Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi, will bring Preen’s next collection back to London Fashion Week.The fashion house known for strong colours and tailoring has been trending on Twitter since the announcement was made. Fashion Monitor, fashion journalist Jim Shi, Moda Operandi and everyone who’s anyone are tweeting about the exciting news. Celebrity fans of the London-based label include the amazing Scarlett Johansson, Claire Danes and American first lady Michelle Obama.

Thornton and Bregazzi met when they were just eighteen years old in their hometown of the Isle of Man, and opened their store on Portobello in 1996. A mere ten years after later, they were one of three labels nominated for a ‘British Designer of the Year Award’. After years of success showing in New York, they are returning home, and have said that they are, "delighted to be part of LFW again, it feels great to be back on our own turf." London Fashion Week is from the 14th to the 18th of December. Welcome back, Justin and Thea!

Jameela’s First Fashion Collection

Jameela’s First Fashion Collection

Jameela Jamil has designed her first fashion collection for Very.co.uk, and we've picked our favourite bits for you to look at Jameela has never strayed far from our fashion radar with her love of vintage style prom dresses, rock chic tees and a flash of red lipstick.So we were excited to see what she would come up with for her first foray into designing clothes with The JAM by Jameela Jamil collection.

Talking about the collection, Jameela said: “These clothes are all little confidence boosters.
“I wasn’t trying to prove how creative and ‘edgy’ I can be, I wanted to make clothes that women feel proud in. Confidence is the most attractive thing a woman can wear.”

The collection has 25 different pieces ranging from £10 - £120.So some of the items are a little pricey, but lets take a look at our favourite picks and see if we can steal some of Jameela’s iconic style

Fashion Giant H & M Coming To Melbourne

 

 

nother major international fashion chain has its sights set on Melbourne.

Following the success of  Zara and Top Shop, Swedish brand H and M is coming to the Victorian capital.The fashion giant was rumoured to be scouting for locations in Sydney and Melbourne, specifically at Melbourne's Emporium development.The herald sun reports that analysts have confirmed that the Swede-tail giant is looking at both Chadstone Shopping Centre and Emporium in Melbourne.

H M, known also as, Hennes Mauritz is known for its fast-fashion clothing for men, women, teenagers and children.It has over 2,300 stores in 43 countries and as of 2011 employs around 94,000 people.It is ranked the second largest global clothing retailer.

Diane Kruger & Dianna Agron Hit Louis Vuitton Fashion Bash

Diane Kruger & Dianna Agron Hit Louis Vuitton Fashion Bash

Diana Kruger and Glee girl Dianna Agron were just two of the famous faces on show at Louis Vuitton's glittering fashion bash in New York last night.

DIANA KRUGER'S STYLE HIGHS AND LOWS

Wall-to-wall with impeccably dressed guests, the stylish soiree was held to honour acclaimed artist Yayoi Kusama, the latest design star to team up with the fashion house.Looking her usual, stylish self in a sweeping sheer skirt dressed and beaded kimono jacket, Diane Kruger arrived on the arm of beautiful beau Joshua Jackson at the event, held at New York's famous Whitney Museum.Blonde beauty Dianna Agron was next to on the list, proving her style credentials once again in a bold bejewelled, printed dress, accessorised with a statement, wavy 'do and a hot pink lip.Skins starlet Kaya Scodelario also made an appearance during the evening, and was joined by actress Alice Eve, Sofia Coppola, Margherita Missoni, and Martha Stewart.

Guests arrived to walls adorned by Kusama's bold colour pop print, soon so be seen adorning his much-anticipated Louis Vuitton collection.

Pakistan Hosts The Lux Style Awards 2012

Pakistan Hosts The Lux Style Awards 2012

Pakistan holds its most celebrated awards ceremony, The Lux Style Awards (LSA) 2012 in Karachi. It was a grand evening hosted at the Expo center in Karachi on Tuesday evening.

The function included presence of renowned actors, fashion designers and celebrities of Pakistan. Shoaib Mansoor's Bol won the Best Film award, whereas Lux Style Achievement award went to Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy for her Oscar winning documentary Saving Face. Pakistan actor Humaima Malick bagged the best female actress award for her stellar performance in Shoaib Mansoor's Bol. Also Best Film Actor award went to Manzar Sehbhai, for his powerful performance in Bol.

The function concluded with a spectacular performance by Pakistan singer turned actor Ali Zafar along with Coke studio band members Kamran Mannu Zafar and Asad Ahmed. Ali's performance included a special tribute to the late Ghazal maestro, Mehdi Hassan.

The Allet US Finalist For Woolmark

 

 

After being unravelled by competition from cheap cashmere and hi-tech fabrics, Australian wool returned to the fashion map in New York yesterday with designer Sophie Theallet announced as the US finalist in the International Woolmark Prize.

Theallet faced stiff competition from Prabal Garung and Naeem Khan before winning $100,000 and going in the running for the top prize, a further $100,000 and the opportunity for her clothes to be stocked in US department store Bergdorf Goodman, London's Harvey Nichols, Italy's 10 Corso Como and David Jones in Australia.Chinese, Indian and European finalists will be announced in the coming days, with the Australian finalist to be announced on Monday.

Australian designers Dion Lee, Magdalena Velevska, Christopher Esber, Kym Ellery, Song For The Mute and Carl Kapp could win $50,000 and the opportunity to represent their country at the finals in February at London Fashion Week."The International Woolmark Prize was initiated through the evolution of the global marketing campaign and the need to reinforce merino wool's position as a premium product supplying the world's luxury brands," Woolmark managing director Stuart McCullough said."The designers who have been nominated for the prize are the fashion leaders and decision-makers of the future."The International Woolmark Prize is awarded to budding designers.

Hugo Boss sparkles Berlin with Spring/Summer collection

NIDA DAR

KARACHI: Hugo by Hugo Boss' runway show sparkled Berlin with its Spring/Summer 2013 collection.The luxurious brand showed their new creations at Mercedes Benz Berlin Fashion Week, with celebrities including Kate Bosworth gracing the front row.Shiny fabrics and glistening materials dominated the collection, adding a touch of colour to the mainly monochrome palette.The cuts were sleek and grown-up, with tailored satin jackets in turquoise and pink coming down the catwalk.Formal shirts were reinvented as stylish, fitted evening dresses and long coatsThe German label added a futuristic touch with tops crafted from shimmering silver material, which flashed the colours of the rainbow.Panels made from the same fabric were sewn into evening gowns and skirts, adding an edge to classic cuts.
The fashion house had followed similar design principles for its menswear collection, with models parading their stuff in shiny, bright blue and dark green suits.

Designing For 'Cocktail' Was Easy Anaita Shroff

 

Chic designs, florescent colours and tribal prints dominate the wardrobes of the lead actors in "Cocktail", which is grabbing eyeballs for its characters that take fashion forward. Designer Anaita Shroff Adajania says making the ultra modish clothes was not that difficult.

The film is directed by Anaita's husabnd, Homi Adajania and it revolves around the lives of three friends - Veronica, Meera and Gautam - played by Deepika Padukone, Diana Penty and Saif Ali Khan, respectively. 'Cocktail' is releasing on Friday. 'The characters were defined nicely by Homi. He was very clear on the characters and gave us a lot of information on the personalities of these characters. And having all that information, it was easy for us to understand how they would dress,' Anaita told IANS.Talking about the characters, the designer describes Veronica as the most fashionable in the film, while Meera is a shy person. 

 

Veronica is a very fashion forward person. She loves fashion and is happy to flaunt her body. It was like mixing high street fashion with luxury designer labels as somebody like her would do,' she said.'While Meera is a simple girl who came from Delhi to London. she comes in her Indian clothes but slowly adapts to western clothes. She is not one to flaunt skin and is shy. So even in her western wear, the choice of clothing is conservative she added.Anaita has previously designed for movies including 'Dhoom 2', 'Love Aajkal' and 'Ra One', apart from styling for advertisements.

 She says that designing for movies is 'toughest' and added: 'I enjoy every aspect of styling which I do, be it for Vogue (magazine) or advertising styling. The only taxing thing about films is time commitment. I hate being tied down to such long commitment. But I enjoy if the team is organised.'

Victoria Beckham Competes With Herself 

Victoria Beckham says her only competitor is herself.

The former Spice Girls singer has established herself as a successful fashion designer and while she admires the work of others, she insists she doesn't see them as competition.

She said: "It's my passion, what I always wanted to do. I have found an area I can compete in, in my own little way. I'm just starting. I have a long way to go and I know that. I have so much respect for the great designers, people like Miuccia Prada. I'm in awe of what she does. But I don't think I'm competing with her or anyone else. My only competition is myself and my collection from the season before."

Victoria - who has four children, Brooklyn, 13, Romeo, nine, Cruz, seven, and one-year-old Harper, with soccer star husband David - says she never set out to be a huge business brand and just designed clothes because she enjoyed it.

         She told British Airways' business: life magazine: "I didn't set out to create a big brand or business. I      just set out to design, to have a creative outlet. It's what I like to do. I love fashion. It's my hobby  that's turned into a successful business. Of course I have to work hard at it. I'm up early and most of the night as well."

Fashion House Valentino Confirms In Takeover Talks

 

italian fashion house Valentino is in exclusive talks with a potential but unnamed buyer, the company said, with Qatar's royal family believed to be interested."Valentino has seen increasing interest from a number of potential buyers," said Stefano Sassi, chief executive of Valentino Fashion Group and the Valentino fashion house, in a statement obtained by Agence France Presse on Monday.

He added: "exclusivity has been granted to one of the potential buyers, who expressed interest in the long term potential of the brand, and it is expected to expire in July."

British media had reported Sunday that Qatar's royal family was in advanced talks to buy the fashion label from its current owner, private equity firm Permira, for some £550-600 million (700-755 million euros, $850-930 million).

Valentino Has Reportedly Been Sold For €600 Million Euro

Valentino Has Reportedly Been Sold For €600 Million Euro

The Italian fashion house was bought by private equity firm Permira five years ago. The company worked hard to improve Valentino’s finances and is now selling it to an investor.According to British newspaper The Telegraph, the sale will be worth €600 million.The buyer has not been identified yet, with the publication only saying it is a “sovereign wealth fund”.

Last year, Valentino’s sales had soared by 20 per cent when compare to 2010 and totalled €322.4 million. The before tax earnings had gone up 300 per cent to €22.2 million. At the time Permira bought the fashion house, things weren’t so good. The label’s namesake designer Valentino Garavani left which plunged the company into problems.

Designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli were brought in to try and open up the brand to a wider audience. The move worked well, with the pair’s forward-looking designs praised when they were presented at Paris Haute Couture Week this month.