Target launches emerging designer award for Canadian foray

Target, Groupe Sensation Mode and Fondation de la mode de Montréal announced the creation of the Target Emerging Designer Award. This unique program provides an up-and-coming designer with a $25,000 grant and the opportunity to create an exclusive collection that will be sold at Target stores throughout Quebec.

The Target Emerging Designer Award is linked to the Designers Fund, a joint initiative of Groupe Sensation Mode and Fondation de la mode de Montréal. The monetary award will be used by the recipient to produce a full-scale fashion show at Montreal Fashion Week, a decisive step for emerging designers looking to kick-start their career in fashion.

This announcement was made at a Target event during Montréal Fashion Week in the presence of John Morioka, senior vice president, Merchandising, Target Canada, Pierre Bovet, chairman of the Foundation’s board, and Jean-François Daviau and Chantal Durivage, co-presidents of Groupe Sensation Mode.

“Target is proud to invest in the future of local designers and looks forward to a long-term relationship with Montreal’s fashion community,” stated John Morioka, senior vice president, Merchandising, Target. “This initiative reflects Target’s commitment to great design and to making a difference in the communities in which we do business.”

“Target’s program fits perfectly with our objective of partnering with key players in the industry,” noted Pierre Bovet, chairman of the board, Fondation de la mode de Montréal. “From the outset, it was clear to us that Target wanted to be involved in a unique and positive manner with Montréal’s creative community. We are particularly pleased with Target’s commitment, which supports up-and-coming designers by leveraging its impressive infrastructure to promote local talents.”

“Target is the first company to contribute a grant to the Designers Fund, which we created in 2010 with the collaboration of Fondation de la mode de Montréal,” explained Jean-François Daviau, co-president, Groupe Sensation Mode. “We have been working with the Foundation and Target for some time and are delighted with the company’s support. We are extremely pleased to see this initiative come to life.”

Fondation de la mode de Montréal will be working with a panel of experts, including a representative from Target, to select the recipient of the Target Emerging Designer Award.  More details on the program and how to submit an application will be communicated at a later date.

Plus-size super model to host Curves Rock Fashion Weekend

Curves Rock Fashion Weekend is excited to announce the addition of plus-size model/actress and Baltimore native, Liris Crosse,as its host during the three-day event, July 27th- 29th at the BWI Hilton Hotel. Liris is known for her beauty, curves, and ability to balance her dominance on the runway with her warm and friendly personality.

During her 16 year career, she has made it her mission to highlight the disparity of plus size models in the fashion industry and serves as the catalyst of awareness for plus size representation in all fashion outlets.

Her drive and passion for this calling has led to her to numerous appearances on BET’s Rip the Runway, gracing the magazine pages of Seventeen, Glamour, Vibe and the fashion bible, Vogue, as well as featuring in campaigns for plus-size clothing companies Lane Bryant and Ashley Stewart.
As an actress she has appeared on projects such as HBO’s The Wire  and Universal Pictures The Best Man. Liris is currently signed to Dorothy Combs Models agency out of Miami, is the face of JimmyJazz.com plus section, and can be currently be seen as the campaign model for Qristyl Frazier’s Nirvana line.

The pairing of Curves Rock Fashion Weekend and Liris is befitting because each share a love for the “curvy community” and their hometown. Each desire to “cater to the fashionably undeserved” (size 10 and up) and spotlight the Baltimore/DC area as the first ever to offer a fashion and health platform equal to its “standard model” counterpart.  Along with her impressive resume, Liris adds an outreach to more than 35,000 on her social media networks. She joins PLUS Model radio host and Hollywood actress, Chenise Lewis and fellow “Rip the Runway” model, Christina Mendez as host for Curves Rock Fashion Weekend.

Read More about Plus-size super model to host Curves Rock Fashion Weekend @ Fibre2fashion

Caroline Wozniacki to design ‘This is Me’ range with JBS

This fall Caroline Wozniacki reveals some of her most private moments away from the tennis court, when she launches her own underwear collection. The Caroline Wozniacki Underwear collection was designed with Caroline’s personal input to reflect her individual style and desired level of comfort. The line will debut worldwide in September 2012.

The collection provides a glimpse into a more private and personal side of Caroline away from the tennis courts as illustrated by the tag line:

“This is Me.”

The Caroline Wozniacki Underwear collection is made in collaboration with the Danish underwear brand JBS and includes both a cotton/lycra and a microfiber line.

The thoughts behind are, as Caroline puts it: “A feminine lifestyle/leisure underwear collection for the girl that wants the good looks from fashion, a perfect fit for her body, and a quality that’s hard to beat. JBS was the perfect partner to accomplish that.”

JBS Underwear is a Danish family owned company established in 1939 by Jens Bjerg Sørensen. JBS has always focused on producing world-class underwear in the most superior quality, and today JBS is Scandinavia’s leading underwear manufacturer in terms of size, revenue and popularity.

The partnership was negotiated by Caroline’s agent and President of Lagardère Unlimited’s tennis division, John Tobias and Director of Talent Marketing, Drew LeMesurier.

“We are extremely excited about the collaboration between Caroline and JBS. When Caroline attaches her name to something she does so with great consideration. This is a partnership that will hopefully live well beyond Caroline’s tennis career.” – John Tobias 

“JBS’ Danish roots and rich history in the industry made partnering with them to create Caroline’s line of underwear a natural fit. Caroline was engaged throughout the design process and couldn’t be happier with the final result.” – Drew LeMesurier


Read More about Caroline Wozniacki to design ‘This is Me’ range with JBS @ Fibre2fashion

Kentwool launches limited-edition performance golf socks

Kentwool the 169-year-old, family-owned American textile innovator - announces a limited-edition Tour Profile performance golf sock in red, white and blue is now available at www.Kentwoolsocks.com with sales benefitting Pendleton Place, a Greenville, SC-based children's charity as part of the "Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million" initiative.

Offered through July 15 and slated to be worn during the U.S. Open by 2012 Master's champion Bubba Watson, the socks feature a navy base with red and white accents. From each sale, $5 will be donated to support Pendleton Place, which provides abused and neglected children with shelter and care in a nurturing environment.

Working with the "Bubba & Friends Drive to a Million," Kentwool will help the organization reach its goal of raising $1 million for charity through Watson's own efforts and the support of his partners and sponsors.

"Bubba is one of the most committed guys on Tour when it comes to raising money in support of worthy causes," says Mark Kent. "He's such a great ambassador and joining forces to raise money for a tremendous charity is something that means a lot to me and the Kentwool family."

Currently No. 4 in the Official World Golf Ranking, Watson shot to worldwide fame following his historic playoff victory at Augusta National. Since joining the PGA Tour in 2006, the long-hitting Floridian has won three other titles, including the 2010 Travelers Championship, 2011 Farmers Insurance Open and Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

“Kentwool offers an amazing, American-made product that keeps my feet feeling great all the time," says Watson. "I love rocking these socks and, with the support of my fans, am excited to help make a difference in the lives of some really deserving kids." 


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Miss Rhode Island captures Miss USA crown after voicing support for transgender beauty queens

Miss Rhode : LAS VEGAS - A 20-year-old cellist from Rhode Island won the Miss USA crown and will represent the United States in this year's Miss Universe pageant after voicing support for transgender beauty queens.

Olivia Culpo topped a field of 51 contestants on Sunday to take the title at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. She strutted across the stage in a lilac bikini and a purple evening gown adorned with a sparkly belt.

Miss Rhode PHOTOS: MISS USA 2012 PAGEANT

In the dreaded final question round, Culpo was faced with the most difficult question of the night: "Would you feel it would be fair that a transgender woman wins the Miss USA title over a natural-born woman?" Culpo never stumbled as she embraced the Miss Universe Organization's recent decision to admit transgender contestants. The question came from a pageant follower on Twitter, a first for the competition.

Miss Rhode PHOTOS: MEET THE CONTESTANTS

"I do think that that would be fair but I can understand that people would be a little apprehensive to take that road because there is a tradition of natural-born women, but today where there are so many surgeries and so many people out there who have a need to change for a happier life, I do accept that because I believe it's a free country," Culpo said.

Culpo said she was short and chubby as a girl, but blossomed after a growth spurt. She spent her summers at band camp after learning to play the cello in second grade. Her parents are also musicians, and her love for music saw her perform at Symphony Hall in Boston and Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Culpo is a 2010 graduate of St. Mary Academy Bay View, an all-girls Catholic school in Riverside, where she was a member of the National Honor Society. She is a sophomore at Boston University.

"Beauty is found in the way you treat others," she told pageant officials.

Rounding out the top five contestants were first runner-up Nana Meriwether of Maryland, second runner-up Audrey Bolte of Ohio, third runner-up Jade Kelsall of Nevada and fourth runner-up Jasmyn Wilkins of Georgia. As Meriwether and Culpo held hands waiting for the winner to be announced, Culpo bit her lip and cringed with anticipation.

Culpo demonstrated an outgoing personality throughout the competition, blowing a kiss and shimmying across the stage during the opening number. She cited starlet Audrey Hepburn as her source of inspiration, noting her many years of volunteer work.

"She was beautiful on the outside but also beautiful on the inside," said Culpo, whose favorite movie is "Funny Face."

Pageant officials also noted that Culpo "can tie a cherry stem with her tongue."

Miss Iowa USA Rebecca Hodge was named Miss Congeniality, and Miss Oregon USA Alaina Bergsma was named the most photogenic. They both won $1,000, but didn't make the top 16.

The pageant at the Planet Hollywood casino on the Las Vegas Strip had three competitions: swimsuit, evening gowns and interview question. Midway through the contest, pop band Cobra Starship performed as the beauty queens modeled their string bikinis. Singer Akon performed during the evening gown competition. Culpo had one of the more modest dresses of the contest, with many of the beauty queens wearing more revealing dresses with bare backs, high slits and sheer fabric.

The judge's panel included Chef Cat Cora, TV personality Arsenio Hall, singer Joe Jonas and reality TV star Rob Kardashian. Andy Cohen and Giuliana Rancic stepped in to host. Miss USA 2011 Alyssa Campanella crowned Culpo her successor at the end of the night.

She'll represent the United States at the 61st Miss Universe pageant later this year. An American has not been named Miss Universe since Brook Lee won the title in 1997.

The first-ever transgender contestant to compete in the Miss Universe Canada pageant made it to the penultimate round before losing her bid to win the title last month. She was initially denied entry to Canada's pageant because she was not born female. Donald Trump, who runs the Miss Universe Organization, subsequently overruled that decision.

Miss Universe publicity director Brenda Mendoza has said transgender competitors are now welcome at all of its pageants around the world.

The competition is not affiliated with the Miss America pageant.

View More Miss Rhode images 

   

Jessica Simpson debuts fashionable styles for moms-to-be

Jessica Simpson has expanded both her family and her fashion empire. This Fall, Simpson will debut a full line of maternity apparel, through an exclusive licensing agreement between Camuto Group, the master licensee behind the Jessica Simpson Collection, and Destination Maternity, the world's leading maternity apparel retailer. The agreement to design, develop, produce and distribute the collection marks the 24th product classification for Simpson's eponymous collection.

Full of breezy, everyday pieces, the collection is aimed at the modern mom-to-be who wants to maintain her fashion edge throughout her pregnancy. Finding the perfect balance between comfort and style is something Simpson, who just welcomed her first child, daughter Maxwell Drew, knows well.

"I'm so excited to partner with Destination Maternity to design a collection of fashionable styles that make you look and feel great!" Simpson has said, "You want to wear clothes that are flattering to your baby bump; you want to show your bump off."

The collection has a vintage 70s feel. Mixing patterns and textures gives the debut collection a cool, relaxed vibe. Parallel to the core collection, the maternity line contains signature denim in a variety of washes and leggings. Vintage print tops, flowing maxis and form-fitting jersey knit dresses channel Simpson's carefree casual side. Contemporary separates including jackets, blazers and chunky relaxed sweaters and essential knits round out the offering. The styles are designed to accentuate the baby bump, while maintaining the ultimate in stylish comfort.


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800 womenswear fashion brands to partake at Fame & Private

At the end of June, when all fashion professionals rush to Paris to attend the Couture Fashion Week, the French capital is also hosting two essential events for women’s fashion at the WHO’S NEXT Prêt-à-Porter Paris trade show: FAME and PRIVATE.


800 brands from 20 different countries are taking part in these two major international events. The opportunity to get an insight into the latest styles and trends for the Spring/Summer 2013 season. 


Fame: 2002-2012, 10 Years 10 years already… Time to party! FAME intends to celebrate this special birthday with a party Sunday evening and a styling challenge in witch the exhibitors will take part. For the first time since its creation, FAME will be taking over one single hall, Hall 4. A selection intentionally limited to 200 brands featuring exclusive international womenswear labels. 


Fifteen designers reflecting the current trends, presenting original and strong collections, will be gathered in an area called FAME ATELIER, while young fashion designers, previously dispatched around the whole area will all be gathered in FRESH, an area welcoming 25 new designers.


Private: Women’s Fashion Basics With 600 brands of leading womenswear labels, PRIVATE is quite unique on the fashion trade show scene. Gathered in halls 7.1 and 7.2, this selection of contemporary yet business-oriented collections, are organized by fashion and market segment. 

Read More about 800 womenswear fashion brands to partake at Fame & Private @ Fibre2fashion

Mischa Barton launches fashion website

Actress Mischa Barton arrives at the 20th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party at the City of West Hollywood Park on February 26, 2012 in West Hollywood, California. (AFP PHOTO/PATRICK T. FALLON) 

Mischa Barton is giving fans the chance to steal her style after unveiling a fashion line inspired by her own wardrobe.

The former The O.C. star has launched shopping website Mischa's Place, which sells clothing, accessories including scarves ,  blouse and purses, as well as make-up, lotions, soaps and candles.

Designed in collaboration with her mum Nuala, the site is described by Barton as an "eclectic haven of style" and ships to the U.S., U.K., Canada, France, Spain, Sweden and Germany.

And the actress, who is planning to open a store in London later this year, hopes fans will love her bohemian style.

A message from Barton on the website states, "Together with the help of my Mum Nuala, my inspirations are brought to life using elements of my personal style. Our Collection has grown and developed to reflect the consumer and myself over the seasons, whilst maintaining a consistent theme. I hope you enjoy my designs and have as much fun wearing them as I did designing them!”

Mischa's Place is not Barton's first foray into fashion - she has previously designed her own headband and handbag ranges.

Moms-to-be look glamorous in Loved by Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum wears many hats—supermodel, mother, executive producer, and fashion expert on Project Runway. After the pregnancies and several seasons of top-selling collections at Motherhood and A Pea in the Pod stores, Heidi knows what an expectant mom needs to look fantastic during her pregnancy.

The Spring 2012 collection of Loved by Heidi Klum, arriving in Motherhood stores in April, is inspired by Heidi's visits to her favorite hotel on the French Riviera, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. There, Heidi envisions expectant moms wearing the casual elegance of her dark, skinny jeans paired with her trendy knit tops in black, white, and fresh neutrals with touches of red and gold embellishment. 

Heidi's boldly-striped, loose fitting dress takes the mom-to-be from a spa lunch to a busy day of sightseeing. Dressier slacks and tops for evening round out the 19-piece collection that will be available in stores and online.

"Heidi Klum makes pregnancy glamorous and fashionable. Her style is fun and still practical. This new collection offers moms-to-be a chic look at an attainable price during this exciting time of their lives," said Chris Daniel, President of Destination Maternity Corporation, parent company of Motherhood Maternity.


Read More about Moms-to-be look glamorous in Loved by Heidi Klum @ Fibre2fashion

David Jones latest fashion for staff

Shopper Krystina Beche outside David Jones and Zara fashion stores in Bourke Street, Melbourne. Picture: Stuart McEvoy 

AFTER years of cutting staff numbers to the point where shoppers could barely find anyone to take their cash, department store David Jones is hiring more salespeople in an attempt to turn around its plummeting sales.

DJs chief Paul Zahra said yesterday the company would hire another 300 specialist retail staff across its 36-store portfolio to boost service levels after warning that net profit would fall by up to 40 per cent this financial year.

The company has steadily reduced staff numbers since 2009 to reduce costs and maintain profitability in the face of flagging sales.

However, the strategy became self-defeating as frustrated shoppers increasingly avoided the stores on the grounds of poor service. As part of a turnaround strategy unveiled yesterday, DJs would increase the hours of existing employees as well as hiring 200 specially trained service staff and another 100 floor supervisors to boost service levels for customers.

Mr Zahra said recruitment would begin next week, with the new staff to start work by the end of July. Floor staff will also have an incentive to help shoppers, with a new bonus payment program based on sales performance.

The move follows a similar strategy by rival department store Myer, which has spent an additional $13 million in wages over the first half of the financial year to boost staffing levels.

Shoppers outside David Jones' flagship store in central Melbourne yesterday said they were fed up with the poor service at the major department stores.

Krystina Beche, a tailor and stylist, said she found shopping at DJs more difficult than at smaller specialised stores. "It's not a big thing, but for me it's the change rooms; I can never find them in David Jones," she said. "It's a hassle just finding anything because everything changes all the time and you don't know where your favourite brands are."

Charmian Bolger, a 24-year-old nurse, said she also preferred the service and the layout in specialty stores. "It's quite difficult to find staff in department stores sometimes," she said.

Demand for customer service has helped high-end retailers such as jewellery chain Tiffany & Co and upmarket menswear boutique Harrolds report growth in sales despite the overall downturn in discretionary spending, while Virgin Australia plans to capitalise on the trend with a network of super-premium lounges at major airports to lure well-heeled passengers.

Katy Perry’s a fashion fail

In a rare incident of a fashion faux pas, Katy Perry annoyed fashion critics by wearing a bizarre superhero-inspired outfit on stage when she made an exclusive appearance on BBC's Let's Dance - the celebrity-based charity dance show - where she performed new single Part Of Me.

Katy's outfit was predominantly metallic lilac, with lightning flashes across the shoulders and matched cuffs on each wrist, something out of Marvel Comics. Underneath, she had lilac leggings and the outfit was finished off with a pair of black boots.

And not to mention, her now familiar blue hair. Katy, usually known for her bubble gum-esque sense of fashion failed miserably in the eyes of the fashion world. The outfit paled in comparison to previous efforts, which most recently included a stunning baby doll dress design, and a barely there leotard, during a performance in Los Angeles. Both the colours and the design did little to flatter the singer however her performance, of new song Part Of Me, was great. It began with the singer in the centre of the stage, in a cage created by green lasers which went from floor to ceiling. As she left the 'cage' dancers joined her on stage and the lasers spread out to cover the stage. Midway through her troupe of dancers lifted her above them and she stood proud in the middle of the stage before continuing with her brilliant routine.

Find More Lingeries at Fibre2fashion

Aussie designer unveils A/W merino wool line in Paris

Iconic Australian Fashion designers Collette Dinnigan has taken Merino wool to the height of fashion by unveiling her Autumn Winter 2013 collection in Paris, the only Australian label to show on the prestigious official Paris Fashion Week schedule recently.

Dinnigan’s signature feminine silhouettes were brought to life as Merino wool was sculpted into body-conscious cocktail dresses detailed with lace and occasionally wrapped in stoles of looped wool and feathers, an idiosyncratic combination of glamour and practicality.

"I love wool," explained Dinnigan. "It was during one of the Woolmark events that we began discussing the idea of a partnership as I have a strong affiliation with wool, I use it throughout my collection from underwear, to tailoring and coats."

"In my new collection, I've sculpted dress from wool jersey, mixed wool and lace together, combined wool and cashmere for a coat with strips of sequins as an accent. There's also a relaxed tuxedo pant, which is a more traditional usage."

The runway show in Paris marks the beginning of this exciting new partnership, with Dinnigan set to work with The Woolmark Company to continue highlighting wool within her collections.


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Stunning Sonali Bendre walks for Tytler’s My Journey

Celebrating a decade in the business of fashion, the very creative, Siddhartha Tytler presented various elements which are his distinct signature style statements over the years in his collection called “My Journey”.


From corsetry to sequins sheeting, appliqué work to crystal application, Siddhartha took this direction into the Summer/Resort 2012 mode at Lakmé Fashion Week. Fabrics made an impact on the ramp as the designer ensured that the selection of Lycra satin and linen along with chiffon, georgette and specially created printed lace for the show, were the highlights of the creations. 


The colours remained true to style and season, with teal, berry, orange; aubergine and black interspersed with bits of mushroom, gold, copper and silver. Bringing in his trade mark silhouettes, Siddhartha had kaftans, deconstructed dresses, and gowns, sharply cut jackets, trousers, as well as the ‘fit n flare’ look of heavy corsetry.


Keeping the Summer/Resort theme intact, Siddhartha added some stylish swimwear and body suits to complete the look. Detailing played a major role with dori work, appliqués, colour blocking and negative sheeting adding the right highlights to the line.


Starting the show with dull tones of grey and black printed silks Siddhartha showed gleaming corsets with side peplums, jumpsuits in satin with drop shoulders, zippered mutton chop sleeves creation and a bat sleeve mini. The dolman sleeve sheath, the gold Lurex kaftan, flouncy flared mini with embroidered bodice and the will-power brocade sheath were ideal Red Carpet creations.

Read More about Stunning Sonali Bendre walks for Tytlers My Journey at Fibre2fashion

Dramatic entry of Prateik at LFW for Masaba’s Sorbet show

MASABA shows her collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort. In line with its visionary approach to integrating India into global fashion, Bollywood’s hot new hunk Prateik Babbar rocked on the ramp when he opened Masaba’s ‘delicious’ show in a black and white bundhgala and Patiala salwars to rousing applause from the audience.

It was a tasty collection with the delicious title “Sorbet” that Masaba presented at the Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012 show. Bringing to the ramp her distinct fusion styling touches, Masaba showed a look that was relaxed, languid and fluid in soft hues of baby pink, lemon yellow with dollops of pista green along with black and white to add to the menu of “Sorbet” colours.

The silhouettes were easy on the eye as well as the body with maxi dresses, some intriguing palazzo saris, Patiala salwars and cute cropped tops, tunics, waist coats, blouses and jackets that were ideal summer wear.

Known for her prints Masaba’s inspiration was very vintage in nature this season with the cow and camera prints in black and white or red and white with golden Taar embroidery that highlighted the soft colours.

Women’s wear was replete with splashes of colour for a yellow sari with a sorbet pink border and camera print choli, tunic with Patiala pants, jumpsuits generously flared with gold Taar work and slim cheongsam with gleaming embroidery.

The arresting creations were the green cross over tunic; another with an asymmetric hem, the green sari with a broad black velvet border and gold work, the drop waist pleated jumpsuits which were all comfortable additions while the black velvet and gold lean gown was elegantly feminine. Men’s wear was restricted to the two prints for jackets or a long shirt with contrast collar and cuffs teamed with wide salwars.


Read More about Dramatic entry of Prateik at LFW for Masaba’s Sorbet show @ Fibre2fashion

GREAT campaign to feature Victoria Beckham’s designs

Victoria Beckham will help to promote the best of Britain around the world by joining the GREAT campaign, the Government has announced during New York Fashion Week.

The Fashion designers and former popstar’s involvement was revealed at the launch of a GREAT-branded subway train at New York’s Grand Central Station.

She was joined by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, supermodel Jourdan Dunn and other fashion luminaries to highlight the importance of the British fashion industry.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “British fashion is a hugely important global industry and our designers have the talent, creativity and skills to rival anywhere in the world. Contributing over £20 billion to the British economy each year, our industry inspires. Fashion is a truly great British success story.”

As part of her role, Mrs Beckham will be shooting a short film in support of GREAT and the campaign will feature one of her designs, which are handmade in the UK.

“We have some incredible British fashion talent to be proud of,” Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt said. “From royal wedding dress designer Sarah Burton to GREAT ambassador Victoria Beckham, British designers are among the best in the world.”

Read More about GREAT campaign to feature Victoria Beckham’s designs @ Fibre2fashion

Styles that ruled the red carpet at the Grammys this year

 

Here's a look at the fashion fashionistas, who walked the red carpet for music's big night, at the 54th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.

 

 

Katy Perry poses on the red carpet in Elie Saab creation.

 

 

Tamara Braun poses on the red carpet at 54th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles

 

 

Actress Alicia Arden at the awards red carpet. Don't miss the guitar-shaped bag she's carrying.

 

 

Musician Greta Bech shimmers in a gold dress.

 

 

Country singer Carrie Underwood in a Gomez-Gracia creation.

 

 

Rihanna in a custom Armani Prive creation at the Grammys.

 

Singer Alicia Keys in an Alexandre Vauthier dress.

Paris Hilton poses in a Basil Soda creation.

Hip hop artist Nicki Minaj turned heads in her Versace outfit.

Singer Fergie of the band The Black Eyed Peas in a Jean Paul Gaultier creation.

Singer Taylor Swift shimmers in an ornate Zuhair Muhad design.

Band member Adam Levine of the band Maroon 5 and Anne Vyalitsyna.

TV personality Kelly Osborne in Tony Ward creation.

Actress and socialite Amber Rose arrives in a Versace design.

Actress Kate Beckinsale in a Zuhair Murad design.

Singer Kelly Rowland in an Alberta Ferre

Actress Julianne Hough arrives in a Kaufman Franco design.

British singer-songwriter Corrine Bailey Rae poses in a Christian Siriano creation.

Singer Diana Ross at the awards' red carpet.

Singer Adele in a custom Giorgio Armani gown with black sequins and three-quarter-length sleeves. The British songstress swept the awards with six wins this year.

 

Recycled Fashion - Gorgeous collection of paper, cans & used jeans!

This is again one of those instances where a picture speaks a thousand words, maybe even more. It is again amazing how fashion designers across the world have found ways to use the dullest possible trash (& nearly all trash is dull anyway) to carve out some of the most beautiful creations ever known. I’m specially & pleasantly surprised by this awesome collection of clothes. Neither am I a guy who has ever been interested in fashion trends nor do I really believe that having a wide range of wardrobe helps anything. I just feel the more you have, the more you need to take care of them & that is a drag. So quite naturally a conversation regarding fashion trends barely holds my attention (So do most other things)

recycled fashion

But this is different. Denise Van Outen has teamed up with leading ethical fashion designer Gary Harvey to launch Recycle Now Week. It sports the best recycled clothing I have ever seen till date & they really are very impressive. Gary has been a designer for Levis & works wonderfully well on this recycled fashion line. They are running an exhibition on the same between 2nd to 7th November to showcase their brilliant eco-friendly designs. But you can take a front row look at them as right. So enjoy the collection.

Another look at the fabulous dress:

backstage

fashion up close

fashion

Vera Wang's take on 'clothing as sanctuary' is anything but safe at New York Fashion Week

Vera Wang, she of that phenomenal body in Harper's Bazaar last month, does have a day job that doesn't involve posing in swimwear and heels.

She is, of course, one of America's most loved fashion designers, and the volume of stars in attendance at her New York Fashion Week show were testament to that fact.

Renee Zellweger and Leighton Meester were in the front row, while actress Viola Davis and tennis star Maria Sharapova were seated in prime position next to U.S. Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

Daring: Sheerer-than-sheer swathes of fabric allowed for plenty of sensual flashes of skin at Vera Wang

The future's orange: As well as greys taupes and teals, Ms Wang sent searing pops of neon down the runway

They were all there for the fashion, of course, which was based on the concept of 'clothing as sanctuary'.

Ms Wang's take on the theme was anything but safe, though. Sheerer-than-sheer swathes of fabric allowed for plenty of sensual flashes of skin, whether the shade was searing orange, teal blue or creamy champagne.

Her description in the show notes read: 'The body protectively enveloped in the soft armor of a fitted sheath, the sharp discipline of fencing-inspired jackets, the structured carapace of a coat.

Devoted fans: Leighton Meester (left) and Renee Zellweger sat on the designer's front row at the show today

Prime position: Actress Viola Davis and tennis star Maria Sharapova flanked Vogue editor Anna Wintour

'The female form revealed by smoky transparencies that allow a glimpse of skin and of delicate lingerie not meant to be hidden, but seen.'

Though the silhouettes were sleek and streamlined, they were also feminine, and Ms Wang played with proportions at the hips, adding peplums that added structure to the otherwise fluid garments.

The graphic prints on some of the fabrics also added to the idea of femininity, as the sharp lines curved and played around the models' bodies.

Back to the day job: Vera Wang, who posed in last month's Harper's Bazaar, takes her bow at the end

Leighton Meester, who fronts campaigns for one of the designer's fragrances, loves Vera Wang the woman as much as the label.

'She's a woman and she owns it,' she said. 'She's smart, quick and funny.'

She came to the show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week to support 'Vera and all her wonderfulness.

'I am a big fan,' she added.