Check out these mod lashes from Sephora!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Louboutin Signs Soles and Elevates DMV Style One Pump at a Time
Last Saturday, Christian Louboutin greeted over 150 style-istas and singe-handedly elevated the fashion standard for the DMV.
Of course, we were on hand (thanks to a tip from fellow fashion blogger Katherine L.) along with our very favorite not to mention famous DC dermatologist, Dr. Cheryl Burgess.
Enjoy these fab pics courtesy of Dr. C. B! (See Dr. B to the right of C. Louboutin)
-Air Kisses, darlings.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Picture Perfect: Meridian Hill Park
Fall continues to make quite an impression on me.
Case in point: Meridian Hill Park.
The water is back on, darling!
Case in point: Meridian Hill Park.
The water is back on, darling!
"One of the intriguing feature of the park is the thirteen basin cascade fountains that form the center of the lower level formal garden. The fountains are designed with a recirculating water system which, through an elaborate series of pumps, supplies water to two large circular fountains on the upper level, and cascade found on the lower. Each cascade bowl flows to a larger bowl as they descend to the bottom. Water fills one bowl, overflowing into the next, until it reaches the large reflecting pool in the plaza."
Read More
Sunday, October 25, 2009
French Vogue Strikes a Dissident Pose!
If you have not seen the recent French Vogue pictorial showing Dutch model Lara Stone in Black Face, allow us to verify the veracity of the rumor. Apparently Vogue Italia is the only Conde Nast fashion Publication that consistantly recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Black Women in the area of fashion.
These ridiculous photographs were taken by American photographer Steven Klein and actually styled by French Vogue editor, Carine Roitfeld.
Interesting Quote from Carine:
"French Vogue is fashion and sex, liberally spiced with controversy. "I like to have something every month that is - how you say? - not politically correct. A little bit at the limit. Sex, nudity, a bit rock'n'roll, a sense of humour. That is very French Vogue," she says.
What the CupCake, indeed!
Remember darlings, silence = consent.
Send your comments, quips and gentle reminders to:
CONDE NAST DIGITAL
26 rue Cambacérès
75008 PARIS
Fax: 01 53 43 61 61
Directrice Commerciale :
Sophie Antoine
santoine@condenast.fr
santoine@condenast.fr
Directrice de clientèle :
Laure Civet-de Louvencourt
lcivet@condenast.fr
Chef de publicité :
Marine Parmentier
mparmentier@condenast.fr
Chef de publicité :
Claire Richard
crichard@condenast.fr
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
July 2009 Vogue Italia features BLACK BARBIE insert!
A few of my favorite pics from the Vogue Italia June 2009 Barbie supplement. Pics taken by Tefani Williams!
See More!
See Article on MYFOXDC.com!
http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/myvoicedc/featured/Myvoicedc_Wishes_Barbie_a_Hap
See Article on MYFOXDC.com!
http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/myvoicedc/featured/Myvoicedc_Wishes_Barbie_a_Hap
Last Friday, Lulu, my fab friend in Milan fed exed 3 copies of the VOGUE ITALIA 2009 issue that contained an insert that contains decadent pictorials of BLACK BARBIE.
Last July, I hosted a Models, Bottles and BBQ Garden Party to commemorate the launch of July 2008 Vogue Italia issue. The July 2008 Vogue Italia issue was the most coveted magazine in history. It was called the Black Issue and featured over 50 of the best black models in the fashion business photographed by Steven Meisel.
In July 2009, Vogue Italia commemorates the 50th Anniversary of Barbie with a 100 pictorials featuring Black Barbie dolls. OOH LA LA.
A few weeks ago, we sat down to chat with Gianni Grossi and Mario Paglino, the two Italian Barbie Collector designers responsible for styling and coordinating the Black Barbie insert.
Simone Butterfly: ¡Ciao! Come stai?
Mario Paglino: I am very, very well.
Simone: Wonderful. My name is Simone, your fabulous freelance fashion investigator. Tell us about your collaboration with Mattel.
Mario: Oh, we collaborate with Mattel in Italy and in the U.S. We coordinate special events like the Barbie convention and the Barbie birthday party held in Italy. We also design special one-of-a-kind dolls.
Simone: You have two beautiful one-of-a-kind dolls in your hands. Please describe them for us.
Mario: Oh thank you. These dolls are a replica of Madonna. We created them dolls for the Madonna exhibition in London this February 2009 and March 2009. One is a replica of the Christian Lacroix dress that she wore in the Re-Invention tour. The other is the very famous corset worn in the Who’s That Girl video. Both dolls are one-of-a-kind with her complete repainting.
Simone: So when you design a doll, do you also design the hair, the make-up, the face, everything?
Mario: Everything. We start with a classic doll or a collectable doll and we we take off all of the repainting and start again.
Simone: Beautiful! Well done. Now tell me about the July 2009 issue of Vogue Italia. I thoroughly enjoyed the 2008 July issue featuring the most celebrated black models in the business.
Mario: There’s a new one! There’s a new one! I’ll tell you what I can because many of the viewers will be thrilled to see it. The July 2009 Vogue Italia contains a new booklet. The very, very special booklet is about black Barbie. We were fortunate to style the Barbie for the photo shoot.
Simone: How many pages are in the booklet?
Mario: More than 100.
Simone: Oh my goodness!
Mario: People will enjoy it. It’s a beautiful issue. I really think they will love it.
Simone: So does the booklet feature other designers other than you and Gianni Grossi?
Mario: We are the only one-of-a-kind designers to have the honor of being featured in the Vogue Italia July issue. We collaborated with Mattel on his issue.
Simone: What is your favorite page in the booklet?
Mario: Oh, you mean other than mine? LOL! I think the disco fever and some of the other garden pictures are my favorite. But you will see the excerpt is incredible. All the professionals at Vogue Italia did an incredible job.
Simone: I know that last year’s Vogue Italia July issue sold out like 4 or 5 times. Do you expect the same this year?
Mario: I expect more.
Simone: I do too, because everybody loves Barbie.
Mario: Thank you so much.
Simone: Thank you.
Meet Robert Best, Principal Designer for Barbie Collector
BARBIE Hosts Her 50th Birthday Party in Washington, DC
Barbie is 50 and fabulous! But don’t take our word for it. Ask Robert Best, instead. He is the Principal Designer for Barbie Collector. On Friday, June 10, 2009, Mr. Best agreed to speak with us at the Barbie doll’s 50th Anniversary Convention held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC from July 7, 2009 to July 11, 2009. WDC, we’re in the pink!
Simone Butterfly: Hello.
Robert Best: Hi.
Simone: My name is Simone, your fabulous, freelance, fashion investigator.
Robert: Fabulous, I love your outfit. Barbie pink looks very good on you.
Simone: Thank you very much. It’s a pleasure to speak with you Mr. Best, Principal Designer for Barbie Collector. So how long have you been in that position?
Robert: I have been working at Mattel for 15 years now. Who knew?
Simone: So what does a Principal Designer for Barbie Collector do?
Robert: As Principle Designer for Barbie you are responsible for everything. It’s a very head to toe kind of job. I am responsible for the look, which includes the style of hair, make up and of course all of the accessories, the shoes, the jewelry, and everything the doll is going to be wearing. I also oversee the packaging. So I am really like an Art Director in a lot of ways because I have to handle the entire look.
Simone: That is amazing because Barbie has really changed over the years. Who is the 2009 Barbie?
Robert: The 2009 Barbie is a very active, healthy girl of today. I think she's very plugged in to everything that is going on, including trends and fashions that you see on the runway. Barbie is very relevant and is always current. Barbie is very much a reflection of the popular culture that surrounds her.
Simone: We love Barbie and we love her new blog, website and her Twitter updates. She’s fabulous! http://barbiestyle.barbie.com/
Robert: Barbie is absolutely plugged in.
Simone: Please describe the beautiful gown that you designed to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Barbie!
Robert: The gown is called Generations of Dreams and it was inspired by the doll of the same name. The gown features a collage of different images of Barbie throughout the years, from her very first 1959 swimsuit up to today. Everyone has a Barbie story and everyone remembers the doll of their generation. Hence the name: “Generation of Dreams.” The [Generations of Dreams] gown is a fun couture take on a wacky idea.
Simone: How long did it take to create?
Robert: The gown itself took…it feels like years. But it probably took a few weeks. We had a team in New York sewing and creating the first pattern. We had people in LA doing the beading. It was shipped to Australia. Then it was shipped back to the US. It will be traveling all over the country. The gown is better traveled than i am actually. Lol.
Simone: WOW! It’s been a pleasure. Thank you so much for speaking with us.
Robert: It’s been a pleasure.
A few fun facts about the Generations of Dream Gown on display at the Convention:
Eight experts from New York to Los Angeles used 15 yards of pink duchesse satin and silk organza to create the life-size gown. The bodice and skirt are adorned with 50 patchwork prints representing over 50 years of Barbie artwork. Each patch is outlined in countless iridescent sequins, shimmery Swarovski crystals and beautiful delicate trim!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
JAMES TERRELL: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Painter
Article By: Sia Tiambi Barnes
Painter and musician, James Stephen Terrell realizes the power of self-expression. Perhaps it is because he has a Masters of Fine Arts degree from Parsons School of Design and a Masters of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, both in New York City.
Perhaps it is because he grew up in a house with a baby grand piano and art created and collected by his father, fellow painter, Rev. Dr. James E. Terrell, and his mother, Judge Mary A. Terrell. Whatever the origin, he passes his inspiration on to the students at Spingarn, a public high school in Washington, D.C. where he was born and raised and now teaches art, and in his paintings which have been showcased in New York City and D.C. at such places as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library; Howard University Gallery of Fine Art (where he received his Bachelors of Fine Arts); and the Smithsonian Anacostia Museum.
As a singer and guitar player, he’s also performed throughout New York City and D.C. at such renowned clubs as CBGB’s and Bar Nun. His paintings and his music – a fusion of reggae, folk, blues, gospel, and rock – capture a “metropolitan concrete” life. “Art is historical, so it just documents a point in time,” James says. “Whatever you’re painting has reflection on you in general and what you’re thinking about, what’s really on your mind.”
James plans to release two albums of his thoughts this year, Color of Sound and Broken Hearted. For updates on his upcoming live shows and gallery showcases, visit James online at: Myspace.com/CrucifiedToTheCrossroads.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Full-Figured Fashion Week!
"Manolo for the Big Girl blogger Rhiannon Gammill and other "curvy" bloggers recently expressed their happiness at being included at New York's Fashion Week at the Full- Figured Fashion event that took place June 25-27. “I want the woman who can say, ‘This is who I am, you don't have to like me and you don't have to approve of me, but I've been to this pony show before and this time I'm getting what I want. I've got one voice, two chins, and more style than should be allowed by law and I'm not apologizing for any of it’, says Gammill.
Many see this and other inclusions of full-figured women in fashion (such as the new plus-size garments available at stores like Forever 21 and rocker Beth Ditto's upcoming fashion line at Topshop's plus-size division, Evan) as a step in the right direction for helping to create and stimulate a better self-image of the curvier woman. "We all know, whether you like it or not, there are tons of fat women in America, and guess what? We need to get dressed too,” says Gabi Gregg, creator of the blog Young, Fat, and Fabulous. “We have buying power, we want to be able to shop with friends, try things on, and experience clothing the same way as everyone else. I hope that the new plus-size lines at places like Forever 21 and Topshop will do well enough to show other retailers that fat girls like fashion, too." (Source: The Daily Beast)
Many see this and other inclusions of full-figured women in fashion (such as the new plus-size garments available at stores like Forever 21 and rocker Beth Ditto's upcoming fashion line at Topshop's plus-size division, Evan) as a step in the right direction for helping to create and stimulate a better self-image of the curvier woman. "We all know, whether you like it or not, there are tons of fat women in America, and guess what? We need to get dressed too,” says Gabi Gregg, creator of the blog Young, Fat, and Fabulous. “We have buying power, we want to be able to shop with friends, try things on, and experience clothing the same way as everyone else. I hope that the new plus-size lines at places like Forever 21 and Topshop will do well enough to show other retailers that fat girls like fashion, too." (Source: The Daily Beast)
The Runway Era May Be Waning
"According to the Wall Street Journal, designers in one of the cities at the forefront of fashion, Los Angeles, are losing confidence in the system of selling fashion from runways. While Milan, Paris, and Berlin's fashion weeks are backed by their government entities, L.A. must seek the support of corporations who have been backing out of financing this year's event (i.e. IMG, Mercedes-Benz, and Smashbox Studios). However, corporations aren't the only one's backing out. Last February, New York's Fashion Week saw less designers rip the runway as many of them pulled out and had independent fashion shows. With the emergence of the Internet as a marketing and branding tool, many designers and fashion companies are looking to it as a way to market directly to customers. “Everyone is trying to change the format of a girl walking down the runway, because that’s so passé,” says L.A. designer Juan Carlos Obando. Last fall, Viktor & Rolf featured a video on their site instead of being featured on the runway, and the trend is growing as a number of designers display alternative presentations that they replay on their Web sites."
New Designers at the GAP!
"This fashion mashup brings Vogue wunderkinds Alexander Wang, Vena Cava and Albertus Swanepoel to the khaki fray. Continuing in the tradition of last year's design editions line (with white shirts), GAP again asked Vogue and CFDA noms to put their twist on the store's go-to khakis. Brooklyn babes Vena Cava added their sig patterns to two dresses, and sketched all over boyfriend and straight-legged khakis. These boho pieces add a little leggy surprise to your summer get-up. Alexander Wang brings his tough-chic aesthetic to a peacoat and motorcycle jacket, but for the sizzling summer sun you won't be able to pass on his precious pleated khaki shorts. And the icing on the cake? Swanepoel's flirty headwear, which brings a little style to the shade. With enough fresh mix-and-match pieces to get you from this season to next, trust us: it's worth the drive."
(1120 Connecticut Ave., NW; 1267 Wisconsin Ave., NW; or in G'town 1258 Wisconsin Ave., NW)
(1120 Connecticut Ave., NW; 1267 Wisconsin Ave., NW; or in G'town 1258 Wisconsin Ave., NW)
Michael Jackson: Fashion Phenom
"From the wow to the weird, Michael Jackson leaves a fashion legacy to rival his musical one.
His black fedora, silver glove and red leather jacket were worn by millions around the world who channeled Jackson's spirit and sartorial flair. Later, he made fashion choices that weren't as popular, but were no less memorable: the pajama pants during his child-molestation trial, the black robes and veils while living in Bahrain, the germ masks that were a regular accessory.
All combined to cement Jackson's legacy as a pop and fashion icon.
‘There are a few people who are the innovators, who set the trends that other people follow,’ said Stephane Dunn, a frequent writer of popular culture who teaches English at Morehouse College. ‘Here was Michael, who understood the power of style and was able to translate it in a way that everybody wanted to copy it.’
His costumes weren't just for the stage. At a White House appearance, Jackson stood alongside first lady Nancy Reagan, looking the part of a glamorous general in a sequined military-style coat, aviator sunglasses and single, studded glove.
Jackson's ability as a performer electrified audiences, inspired amateurs of all ages and launched the careers of entertainers from Chris Brown to Chris Tucker, said Mark Anthony Neal, who teaches black popular culture at Duke University. ‘His success was a template for them,’ Neal said of performers like Brown, Ginuwine and Justin Timberlake." (Mercury News)
His black fedora, silver glove and red leather jacket were worn by millions around the world who channeled Jackson's spirit and sartorial flair. Later, he made fashion choices that weren't as popular, but were no less memorable: the pajama pants during his child-molestation trial, the black robes and veils while living in Bahrain, the germ masks that were a regular accessory.
All combined to cement Jackson's legacy as a pop and fashion icon.
‘There are a few people who are the innovators, who set the trends that other people follow,’ said Stephane Dunn, a frequent writer of popular culture who teaches English at Morehouse College. ‘Here was Michael, who understood the power of style and was able to translate it in a way that everybody wanted to copy it.’
His costumes weren't just for the stage. At a White House appearance, Jackson stood alongside first lady Nancy Reagan, looking the part of a glamorous general in a sequined military-style coat, aviator sunglasses and single, studded glove.
Jackson's ability as a performer electrified audiences, inspired amateurs of all ages and launched the careers of entertainers from Chris Brown to Chris Tucker, said Mark Anthony Neal, who teaches black popular culture at Duke University. ‘His success was a template for them,’ Neal said of performers like Brown, Ginuwine and Justin Timberlake." (Mercury News)
Thursday, June 25, 2009
A Look Back at THIS DAY/ ARISE Magazine African Fashion Collective 2009
On February 13, 2009, Arise Magazine, the first global style and culture magazine dedicated to African achievement, music, business and politics celebrated it’s launch at The Promenade, Bryant Park. The event featured the designs of an African fashion collective: Xuly Bet of Mali, Stoned Cherrie of South Africa, MOMO and Tiffany Amber of Nigeria and a surprising appearance by the incomparable GRACE JONES. Special congratulations to Style Maven, BETHANN HARDISON who was presented with the first Arise/ThisDay Icon of Style Award by Mr. Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of THISDAY Newspapers. Everybody loves Bethann Hardison, our favorite tireless fashion activist who’s been hosting Town Hall meetings around the nation to discuss the shameless lack of diversity in the fashion world! Read our 2004 interview with her at www.simoneswashington.blogspot.com
Grace Jones 2.2009Friday, June 19, 2009
Jimmy Choo @ H&M?!
“JUST when you thought H&M couldn't possibility find a designer to top the Matthew Williamson collaboration, the brand announces its latest partner in design: Jimmy Choo.
"We are privileged to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M so far, and to be designing a collection appealing to fashion savvy, street smart women, and to be including some great pieces for men, too," founder and president of Jimmy Choo, Tamara Mellon said today. "Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection - the perfect party pieces to buy now and then wear out that night!"
Not content with creating covetable accessories, Jimmy Choo will also design a range of clothing for the high street giant, which, in a change to most collections, will be created to complement the accessories rather than the other way around.
"We adore Jimmy Choo's shoes and bags. They are glamorous and sexy, and they add instant style to the simplest of outfits," Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor of H&M said. "I like the way we have worked with clothes to accessorize the shoes and bags rather than the other way around. This collaboration is particularly exciting because it's our first shoe designer collection. It's a joy to be able to offer top end designer shoes and bags of excellent quality to our customers. The collection, which will comprise shoes, bags and accessories for men and women, will arrive in selected H&M stores on November 14.” (Vogue.com 6/17)
"We are privileged to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M so far, and to be designing a collection appealing to fashion savvy, street smart women, and to be including some great pieces for men, too," founder and president of Jimmy Choo, Tamara Mellon said today. "Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection - the perfect party pieces to buy now and then wear out that night!"
Not content with creating covetable accessories, Jimmy Choo will also design a range of clothing for the high street giant, which, in a change to most collections, will be created to complement the accessories rather than the other way around.
"We adore Jimmy Choo's shoes and bags. They are glamorous and sexy, and they add instant style to the simplest of outfits," Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor of H&M said. "I like the way we have worked with clothes to accessorize the shoes and bags rather than the other way around. This collaboration is particularly exciting because it's our first shoe designer collection. It's a joy to be able to offer top end designer shoes and bags of excellent quality to our customers. The collection, which will comprise shoes, bags and accessories for men and women, will arrive in selected H&M stores on November 14.” (Vogue.com 6/17)
Trendy Fashion For All!
“This month, Arcadia plans to unveil a collection that Beth Ditto (of the punk band Gossip) designed for Evans, the company’s plus-size division. Available in the United States on the Web, it highlights cutting-edge looks like a corset dress and a cropped biker jacket.
The collection is the latest in an outpouring of fashions aimed at trend-driven, round-figured teenagers and young women, a population that has long echoed Ms. Ditto’s complaint that it is ignored by most merchants and brands.
“Up to now it’s been difficult to provide adequate fashion content to a large-sized customer,” said Jeff Van Sinderen, a retail analyst at B. Riley, a research and investment firm. The woman of size, as she is euphemistically known, “still wants to wear the same clothes as her slimmer counterparts,” he added.
Other stores and designers have picked up the message. Forever 21, a purveyor of cheap chic, introduced its plus-size line, Faith 21, this spring. Target recently began offering Pure Energy, exuberantly patterned dresses and tops for young women. Those follow hip niche labels like Karen Kane and Kiyonna, which are sold at boutiques.
All the lines see potential profit in offering stylish alternatives to the ubiquitous track suit. From a business perspective, that makes sense: the customer base is increasing, as health authorities have long pointed out. Some 17 percent of teenagers are overweight, according to the surgeon general’s office, more than three times the rate of a generation ago.
The market for youth-oriented plus sizes (usually 14 to 24) showed strong growth a couple of years ago, several years after the fast-fashion chain H&M entered the business. (H&M has since dropped its plus-size line, for reasons it would not disclose.)
Last year, sales of plus sizes to girls and young women ages 13 to 34 reached $5.8 billion, according to the NPD Group, a market research firm.
With consumer spending falling everywhere, that momentum has been lost: Sales declined 15.3 percent for plus-size shoppers 13 to 17 and 10.1 percent for those 18 to 34 in April and May, compared with the period a year ago, NPD says.
Plus-size lines aimed at older women have also suffered; chains including Ann Taylor and Old Navy have removed larger sizes from stores (they still sell them online).
Despite the slump, some see the market inevitably returning to strength. “The fact that more businesses are getting into this market is a clear indication that the recent lack of growth has been more about the economy than about a lack of interest,” said Marshal Cohen, an NPD analyst.” (New York Times 6/18)
The collection is the latest in an outpouring of fashions aimed at trend-driven, round-figured teenagers and young women, a population that has long echoed Ms. Ditto’s complaint that it is ignored by most merchants and brands.
“Up to now it’s been difficult to provide adequate fashion content to a large-sized customer,” said Jeff Van Sinderen, a retail analyst at B. Riley, a research and investment firm. The woman of size, as she is euphemistically known, “still wants to wear the same clothes as her slimmer counterparts,” he added.
Other stores and designers have picked up the message. Forever 21, a purveyor of cheap chic, introduced its plus-size line, Faith 21, this spring. Target recently began offering Pure Energy, exuberantly patterned dresses and tops for young women. Those follow hip niche labels like Karen Kane and Kiyonna, which are sold at boutiques.
All the lines see potential profit in offering stylish alternatives to the ubiquitous track suit. From a business perspective, that makes sense: the customer base is increasing, as health authorities have long pointed out. Some 17 percent of teenagers are overweight, according to the surgeon general’s office, more than three times the rate of a generation ago.
The market for youth-oriented plus sizes (usually 14 to 24) showed strong growth a couple of years ago, several years after the fast-fashion chain H&M entered the business. (H&M has since dropped its plus-size line, for reasons it would not disclose.)
Last year, sales of plus sizes to girls and young women ages 13 to 34 reached $5.8 billion, according to the NPD Group, a market research firm.
With consumer spending falling everywhere, that momentum has been lost: Sales declined 15.3 percent for plus-size shoppers 13 to 17 and 10.1 percent for those 18 to 34 in April and May, compared with the period a year ago, NPD says.
Plus-size lines aimed at older women have also suffered; chains including Ann Taylor and Old Navy have removed larger sizes from stores (they still sell them online).
Despite the slump, some see the market inevitably returning to strength. “The fact that more businesses are getting into this market is a clear indication that the recent lack of growth has been more about the economy than about a lack of interest,” said Marshal Cohen, an NPD analyst.” (New York Times 6/18)
6.15.09 First Lady Michelle Obama Accepts CDFA Fashion Award
“The fashion industry made it clear at its annual awards ceremony Monday night that it's looking to future stars to see it past the doldrums of the recession, shunning longtime favorites and honoring a largely new guard: Rodarte, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang — and Michelle Obama.
The Council of Fashion Designers of America's special tribute award went to the first lady, considered a new player in this world.
Noting her "meteoric rise as a fashion icon," CFDA president Diane von Furstenberg said Obama had "a unique look that balances the duality of her lives" in her roles as trusted adviser to her husband, President Barack Obama, and busy mother to their two daughters.
Obama accepted her award via a pre-taped video speech. Wearing a crisp white button-down shirt and two strands of pearls, she honored fashion as an American "art form" with "ingenuity and craftsmanship that contribute so much to our economy and culture."” (New York Times)
The Council of Fashion Designers of America's special tribute award went to the first lady, considered a new player in this world.
Noting her "meteoric rise as a fashion icon," CFDA president Diane von Furstenberg said Obama had "a unique look that balances the duality of her lives" in her roles as trusted adviser to her husband, President Barack Obama, and busy mother to their two daughters.
Obama accepted her award via a pre-taped video speech. Wearing a crisp white button-down shirt and two strands of pearls, she honored fashion as an American "art form" with "ingenuity and craftsmanship that contribute so much to our economy and culture."” (New York Times)
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Who Wants A Fashion Copyright Law Anyway?
"For many, many years, we've pointed out how the fashion industry is an example of a highly creative industry that has thrived without the use of copyright. The industry itself is massively successful, incredibly innovative, and involves plenty of competition. This should be seen as a good thing. Yet, some big name designers, who were annoyed that they had to keep competing by releasing new designs all the time have been lobbying Congress to pass a new law that would institute a special copyright for fashion design. This makes little sense. The entire purpose of copyright is to encourage innovation. Yet, if the industry is thriving, competitive and innovative, why would you ever want to introduce new copyright?
Yet, as expected, there has been a big push to get the law passed this year. People have been submitting stories on a near weekly basis about how one or another celebrity designer trekked up to Capitol Hill to push starstruck Congress Critters to support the bill.
It's reached the point that many expect the bill to finally pass this year, but suddenly many in the industry are realizing what a disaster this would be. Boing Boing points us to a plea from industry insiders who are realizing how such a law would destroy the industry and force many small businesses and designers to shut down. Yet, when they talked to their Congressional reps, they were told that Congress hadn't heard anyone complain about this yet, so now they're trying to get out the word.”
(Techdirt 6/8)
Yet, as expected, there has been a big push to get the law passed this year. People have been submitting stories on a near weekly basis about how one or another celebrity designer trekked up to Capitol Hill to push starstruck Congress Critters to support the bill.
It's reached the point that many expect the bill to finally pass this year, but suddenly many in the industry are realizing what a disaster this would be. Boing Boing points us to a plea from industry insiders who are realizing how such a law would destroy the industry and force many small businesses and designers to shut down. Yet, when they talked to their Congressional reps, they were told that Congress hadn't heard anyone complain about this yet, so now they're trying to get out the word.”
(Techdirt 6/8)
Sao Paulo State Prosecuters fine designers $125,000 for not using Black Models!
“SAO PAULO – Organizers of Sao Paulo Fashion Week have promised to take steps to try to make sure that at least 10 percent of the models walking the runways will be blacks or Indians. State prosecutors say they struck a deal with the event's organizers calling for proof that they will attempt to convince designers taking part to promote racial inclusion. Noncompliance by organizers could result in a fine of as much as 250,000 reals ($125,000) in a nation where nearly 50 percent of the population is black and there is a large Indian minority.
Prosecutor Deborah Kelly Affonso said the deal announced Thursday with Luminosidade Marketing & Producoes followed a state investigation. It stemmed from complaints the event recently had fewer black models.” Tech Dirt 6/8/09
Prosecutor Deborah Kelly Affonso said the deal announced Thursday with Luminosidade Marketing & Producoes followed a state investigation. It stemmed from complaints the event recently had fewer black models.” Tech Dirt 6/8/09
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
ATL Plans Fashion Retail Corridor
Construction is to resume in July on Streets of Buckhead, a $1.5 billion luxury development in Atlanta’s toniest neighborhood. Developer Ben Carter, who halted the project in March, said 20 retailers, including Oscar de la Renta, Van Cleef & Arpels, Brioni and Etro have signed leases. Streets of Buckhead, planned for a seven-block area, is to feature 600,000 square feet of retail space, along with 350 rental apartments. Carter said he’s using the lull in construction to renegotiate building costs, with the savings making up “for the downtime in construction.” From WWD Issue 05/22/2009
African American Women SHOP A LOT, Duh!
Construction is to resume in July on Streets of Buckhead, a $1.5 billion luxury development in Atlanta’s toniest neighborhood. Developer Ben Carter, who halted the project in March, said 20 retailers, including Oscar de la Renta, Van Cleef & Arpels, Brioni and Etro have signed leases. Streets of Buckhead, planned for a seven-block area, is to feature 600,000 square feet of retail space, along with 350 rental apartments. Carter said he’s using the lull in construction to renegotiate building costs, with the savings making up “for the downtime in construction.” From WWD Issue 05/22/2009
African American Women SHOP A LOT, Duh!
Last week, Essence held its annual Smart Beauty panel at the Mandarin Oriental in NYC. Panelists included Sam Fine and Mikki Taylor. The event found that
African-American women spend $7.5 billion annually on beauty products, but shell out 80 percent more money on cosmetics and twice as much on skin care products than the general market, according to the research.
WHY? African-American women sample many more products to find the ones that are most effective on their skin. She'd rather purchase aspirational products like Chanel and Versace over brands rep'd by celebrities. "She spends a lot, but there's little satisfaction. What keeps us buying is the hope that this product will do what it's supposed to do," says Fine
Fashion Gaming with Pat McGrath
“Coming Soon: The Fashion Week Video Game” – “A Fashion Week video game is coming out next year. Created by 505 Games, IMG, and world-renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath, the game will offer players a "true insider's point of view" of Fashion Week. It will include ‘world-class industry gurus,’ models, and celebrities, and will be available for the iPhone and for Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony consoles. Women ranging in age from pre-teen to mid-thirties are the target audience.” (New York Magazine’s The Cut) Louis Vuitton Learns to Twitter
“Louis Vuitton gets twittering” - “With this new presence on Twitter, we hope to provide not only additional customer service to our clientele, but also a unique look at all aspects of Louis Vuitton”. - according to Daniel Lalonde, president and chief executive officer of Louis Vuitton US:
Thursday, May 21, 2009
May Fashion Outings
| May 19 - September 29 Tired of paying retail? Join the rest of us at The Thread of Life Fashion Design and Entrepreneur ship Classes & Career Development sponsored by SINGA, 608 Rhode Island Ave., NE Washington, DC, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. (202) 526-6940 or jrhsinga@yahoo.com. Wednesday, May 20 Models, Bottles and Bikini's at Cab ana's in Georgetown, 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM Dennis Ro Che of Ro Che Salon’s hair model showcase of the hottest swimsuits for summer served with complimentary margaritas and appetizers. Wednesday, May 20 Moonlighting in MD - Celebrate the Grand Opening of South Moon Under’s new location at National Harbor in conjunction with DC Magazine. 100 American Way National Harbor, MD, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM A 20% discount is offered with a purchase and the chance to enter to win a gift package. Friday, May 22 Runway Action DC Black Pride Presents Super Fly Fashion Show, Renaissance M Street Hotel - New Hampshire Ballroom, 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Tickets are $35. Saturday, May 23 Pay Your Respect and Bid adieu to WDC's Calico Corners, 4400 Jennifer St. NW Closing after 10 years. All in-stock fabrics are 50 percent off; trims and drapery hardware are discounted 75 percent. Thursday, May 28 Merci, QYANA AGINA, Blogging Maven for Simone's Butterfly! |
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
NYC Launches Fashion Retail Plan
Sunday, May 17, 2009
NYC : MEET BYRON LARS, MODEL CALL @ THE MET, BARBIE ON THE CATWALK, VALENTINO's OPULENCE
SIMONE BUTTERFLY TAKES ON NEW YORK!
In preparation of the 5th Annual Capital Catwalk Salon Event scheduled for June 5, 2009, we packed up our cotton candy pink suitcase and hopped the BOLT BUS for what turned out to be the most stylicious action packed FashionWeekend we've had in months.
Friday 5/15/09:
We met prominent NY designer, Byron Lars whose fashion career spans over 20 years.
On Friday, June 5, 2009 (7pm to 9pm) we will present Lars with the 2009 International Style Maven Award at the Capital Catwalk Salon Event - (Tickets are on sale right now, darling!)
Fun Facts about my new friend BYRON LARS:
Fashion Designer. Freelance Sketcher and Pattern Maker
1991 Showed first collection
1993 En Vogue fashion collection designer
1990-1998 Ran Byron Lars Shirt Tales
1997 Designed fashions for BARBIE
2000 Launched Green-T label
2001 Launched Beauty Mark label, 2001
Byron is not only a genius, but he is a genuine, affable and generous. An Oakland, CA native, he currently lives in NYC. His apparel is featured at DC boutique Everard's Clothing located at
West End Store: 1120 20th Street NW / Washington, DC 20036
Georgetown Store: 1802 Wisconsin Ave, NW /Washington, DC 20007
Saturday, 5/16/09
We called our favorite NY gypsy silver town car driver Sam and....
9:30 am Simone Visits the MET: Model as Muse Exhibit
Surrounded by stunning photography by Irving Penn and Richard Avedon, we glided through the 5 rooms lined with vintage VOGUE, ELLE, HARPER's BAZAAR magazines and mannequins dolled up in vintage Dior and Charles James, etc.
The exhibit traced the history of fashion models from the European days of Haute Couture and Praline, a house model selected not for her photographic looks but her exquisite poise and carriage to the New Look models who expressed movement despite the boned bodices and crinolined skirts of the day by bending from the hip, making swan like jesters with their necks and arms rather than posing with stiffened waists through the status conscious lady like looks of the 1950's and the overt ssensuality and highly individualized looks of the 1960's. Covering the Body Politic of the 1980's when apparel which long loss her rigid underpinnings now highlighted a youthful body; the grunge of the 1990's and Gautier's modern day fantasy fairy tale opulence, the presentation was lush, extravagant and informative. BRAVO!
Highlights for us include:
Marisa Berenson (Mariessa's name sake) who appeared on the scene in 1966
Donyale Luna (first black model to appear on the cover of British Vogue in 1964) featured wearing an aluminum dress from Qui estes-vous Polly Maggoo, a short moving picture that represents the first time I've ever seen Donyale outside of a magazine. Priceless.
Beverly Johnson first black model to appear on the cover of American Vogue (1974) who was discovered while attending law classes. Inspirational.
Reference to the epochal Battle of Versailles where the top American designers presented in Paris against the French designers. America WON. See our interview of Bethann Hardision a Battle of Versailles model (www.simoneswashington.blogspot.com) for more information on this fab event.
11:00 Simone Gets BARBIElicious at Dylan's Candy Bar
What's a birthday party without presents?
We decided to visit Dylan's Candy Bar to sample the newest BARBIE confection created especially by Dylan to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Barbie. Want to taste test for yourself? Attend the Capital Catwalk as a VIP guest and satisfy your sweet tooth...fashionably.
1:15 pm Simone Is Mesmorized by Flick: Valentino: The Last Emperor
We lucked up and found a theater in NYC still playing the documentary on Valentino. Sitting in the middle chair of the 20th row, we along with 3 other couples spent 1 hour and 50 minutes being drizzled with a steady stream of Valentino Red opulence. Darling it was really quite exquisite.
Favorite quote: "I love beauty, it's not my fault." -Valentino
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