The Body Shop-Shop At Home Program

There are many companies that offer people a chance to indulge their passion for products and also make money selling them. One I've just learned about recently is from The Body Shop. Their "The Body Shop At Home" program, already popular in Europe, is available in the United States as well.

One of the best bennies of programs such as The Body Shop At Home is that you don't have to quit your day job to do it. You make your own hours and putting in as much efforts as you want. In fact, hosting holiday parties at home lets you socialize with friends while you earn discounts and income, and introduce new products, some exclusive to the "at home" program. In fact, in our What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column we will be reviewing some exclusive The Body Shop at Home Program items from The Sweet Chestnut Collection (look for it the first week in November).

If you'd like to try The Body Shop At Home, start by contacting the company either at: 800-603-5519 or visit www.thebodyshopathome.com and a local consultant will help you get started. While The Advice Sisters do not endorse any particular programs, we like the idea of them very much--especially if you love cosmetics, fragrance and fashion. In fact, a long, long time ago, Advice Sister Alison did cosmetics sales through a similar program! These types of programs let you make extra money (perfect since holiday time is coming) as you earn discounts, free products, and have the chance to "try before you buy" and purchase gifts for everyone on your list.

Fragrance Foundation Hosts Karen Dubin and Karen Adams of Sniffapalooza

If you are involved in the fragrance business, you already know that The Fragrance Foundation was established in 1949 by six industry leaders affiliated with Elizabeth Arden, Coty, Guerlain, Helena Rubenstein, Chanel and Parfums Weil, to develop educational programs about the importance and pleasures of fragrance for the American public. The Foundation's International Membership includes: manufacturers, suppliers, media, advertising and public relations agencies as well as designers, packagers and retailers. The organization maintains one of the most extensive print and video fragrance libraries in the world and among other things, holds seminars and symposia for its members as well as for the international fragrance industry.

I recently attended my first event at the Fragrance Foundation's headquarters on Thursday, September 20th, a Fragrance Foundation "Think Thank II" Sniffapaloozas: Fragrance Enthusiasts Extraordinaire. Just in case you're wondering if you've entered the right offices, you can't miss the big clue: a very colorful, large perfume bottle that sits right in the hallway. There is no doubt that you have come to the right place to learn and appreciate, fragrance. I was warmly greeted as I entered by Executive Director Mary Ellen Lapsansky. I also discovered that people I've only worked with online, were there in person. Putting a face to a name, is always wonderful.

Karen Adams (left) and Karen Dubin (right) of Sniffapalooza were the presenters. The President of the Fragrance Foundation, Rochelle Bloom, is in the middle. After a brief introduction, an enthusiastic Karen Dubin explained that Sniffapalooza started informally, as a way for her to enjoy her hobby/passion for perfume with like-minded others. Karen Adams was at the first Sniffapalooza, and bonded with Dubin to create a more formal set of events that now includes a Sniffapalooza Web site with a magazine and forums, as well as in-person activities. Some members participate every single day, forging virtual friendships.

The group is not part of the fragrance business per se, but an ever-growing tribe of informed, passionate consumers who typically collect dozens to hundreds of fragrances, and want to know as much as they can about them. This consumer will purchase hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars worth of fragrance in a year. The industry, according to Dubin, just didn't know that such a consumer existed. In addition, many of the Sniffapalooza patrons simply want to shop and share with others. Of significance to retailers and the fragrance industry, these "hidden" consumers tend to be 75% women, 25% men ranging from a youthful 16 years old, to 78 years old. All are bonded by their love of fragrance, just as wine, chocolate, or coffee/tea enthusiasts are.

With more than 800 new fragrances launched last year, the members of Sniffapalooza feel that being able to sample the fragrances, and work with knowledgeable counter salespeople, is essential. Naturally, Sniffapalooza events generally revolve around "sniffing and shopping" for fragrance, with some events being more like seminars, featuring a representative from a specific brand, offering information and testing. There have been lunches and breakfasts with industry professionals, and even a trip to France, where each day featured multiple visits to famous (and new/indie) perfume houses.

Dubin and Adams understand the business side of the fragrance industry, and but they also appreciate what goes into creating scent, be it luxurious, or for the drugstore consumer. As Karen Dubin said: "This is somebody's art."

Usher Launches Two Lovely Fragrances

A star studded party at Cipriani’s in Manhattan was the scene of the launch for two exciting new fragrances: USHER ("He") for Men and USHER ("She") for Women. Beyonce, Gayle King, Jermaine Dupri, Nelly, Usher’s mom Jonetta Patton, and a very pregnant, glowing mom-to-be of Usher's baby, Tameka Foster, and others were on hand to help him celebrate. So were throngs of fans and fashionistas, enjoying endless rounds of Bellinis (Cipriani's signature cocktail) I believe that the woman wearing the pearl necklace in the middle of the photo is Jonetta.

The hip-hop star, whose formal name is Usher Raymond IV is, was subdued and obviously enthusiastic as he thanked Liz Claiborne and all of the people who helped make these new fragrances that carry his name, possible. The scents were formulated by Firmenich in collaboration with Usher and developed by perfumers Honorine Blanc and Richard Herpin. The star said that he wanted to be part of creating fragrances for men and women, because "when everything else comes off, fragrance still stays on." He was involved in every aspect of creating the fragrance, including scrutinizing every possible "silver" made (most likely a reference to the silver caps and necks of the stunning, frosted glass bottles, inspired by a spinning ring that the singer wears).

The fragrances are as different as Mars and Venus, or men and women. Usher thinks he knows what will smell good on both sexes, and he has done his best to translate his vision into a bottle of scent.


The mens'fragrance is a knockout--strong, bold, masculine and sexy, presented in a frosted black bottle. It blends verbena, pineapple and melon; a heart of blue lavender, white pepper and violet leaf, and a drydown of vetiver, amber wood, black suede, sandalwood, sensual musk and guaiac wood. The women's fragrance is more demure.

The ladylike scent for women, in it's light golden bottle is clean smelling, slightly floral and light--a soft and sensual blend that I'm guessing is Usher's notion of how a woman should smell. In any case, it's perfect for daytime and (if you follow Usher's suggestion) when all you are wearing is, um....Usher fragrance. If my sources are correct on the notes, the women's fragrance features top notes of red currant, pink freesia and apple blossom on top, a heart of frangipani, apricot nectar, blooming jasmine and passion rose, and a drydown of amber wood, sensual musk, cashmere wood, vanilla orchid and incense.


According to Women's Wear Daily, the women's lineup will consist of eau de parfum in two sizes, 1.7 ounces for $52 and 3.4 ounces for $68. A 0.5-oz. parfum will retail for $120, and three ancillaries will be offered: a body lotion, $38 for 6.7 ounces; body cream, $45 for 6.7 ounces, and a shower gel, $35 for 6.7 ounces. The men's collection will include eaux de toilette in two sizes, 1.7 ounces for $50 and 3.4 ounces for $65. A concentrated eau de toilette will retail for $95. Four ancillaries will be sold: after shave tonic, $45 for 3.4 ounces; after shave balm, $40 for 3.4 ounces; deodorant, $16 for 2.6 ounces, and shower gel, $25 for 6.7 ounces

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by The Advice Sisters® Feel free to link to this blog, but no portion of this content can be used without written permission. Contact: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Farah Angsana Couture Paris--Runway Show Fashion Week Photos

Beauty and fashion reporters often find themselves in situations during Fashion Week where they simply can't be in two places at once, or they miss a show because of transportation or other challenges. Although I attended many shows creating more than 30 specific reviews for this blog during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, I missed the Farah Angsana CoutureParis SPRING SUMMER that was held on Tuesday, September 11th, organized through Style 360 The Metropolitan in NYC.

I really wanted to see this show--I know the designers is known for elegant designs in drape-y fabrics, and as you can see from this photo and others below, this collection features gorgoues, goddess-like, serene, artfully draped, red carpet fashions. I'm including some photos because I think they speak for themselves!--ALISON

There was also a video (not great quality, but you can still enjoy the show) which I'm including here for your enjoyment.

World Alzeheimers Day September 21st

I have just learned that World Alzheimer's Day is September 21st. There are more than 5 million people in the United States living with Alzheimer's and every 72 seconds, someone else is diagnosed with this terrible disease that robs the individual of his memories, his abilities, his emotions, and eventually, his life.

In the old days, dementia was just considered as getting older, or "senile," but Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia are not the same. Every person "forgets" where they put their keys from time to time, or what their next appointment is, or what they had for lunch yesterday. Alzheimer's-type dementia, a general term for the loss of memory and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life, is different. It's a brain disorder, named for German physician Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1906. Although symptoms can vary widely, the first problem many people notice is forgetfulness severe enough to affect their work, lifelong hobbies or social life. There are tests that can determine whether brain function has been disrupted or destroyed, but there is no reprieve from type of dementia. It only gets worse. As it progresses, other symptoms include confusion, trouble with organizing and expressing thoughts, misplacing things, getting lost in familiar places and wandering, and changes in personality and behavior.

Another common form of dementia that cannot be cured, but can be treated and slowed down (in some patients) if caught early, is Vascular dementia, caused by reduced blood flow to parts of the brain. In mixed dementia, Alzheimer's and vascular dementia occur together. Sadly, I believe that my own very brilliant and talented father has this type. He is still intelligent, but he can't manage anything mechanical, (e.g. how to turn a radio or television on and off). Even though he was once the Editor of a prestigious medical bulletin, he cannot find the words to expres himself properly. He doesn't remember my mother, his wife of more than 53 years either from memories, or from photos. He was a wonderful pianist and played a number of other instruments, but now he can't make music at all. He once said: "when a pianist can no longer play, he has died." Alas, Dad is fairly robust physically, but has lost the ability to enjoy hobbies, learn anything new, or remember much of the past or even the immediate present.

Watching my father slowly and painfully become increasingly confused and upset about the loss of his abilities with dementia, often poetically termed "the long goodbye" is painful for him, and also for me. I feel so totally helpless even though he wants to be saved from a fate that is (while living with it) often worse than death. I wish I had known more about dementia when his symptoms first started becoming apparent to me, more than 7 years ago. I wish I'd been able to reduce his frustration, and most of all, I wish someone would find a cure.

We've learned most of what we know about Alzheimer's in the last 15 years. There is an accelerating worldwide effort under way to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset, or prevent it from developing. To find programs, information and ways to help in your area visit the home page of the Alzheimer's Association National Office 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 http://www.alz.org/apps/findus.asp

Caravan Fashion Week Runway Show September 12, 2007

Caravan is a most unusual store....and not a store. Launched June 2005 in New York City, Caravan was at first, literally a mobile boutique-in-a-Winnebago--the brilliant idea of entrepreneur Claudine Gumbel and her husband Brian. Gumbel is also co-founder of the fashion PR agency Think PR. In 2006 Caravan also opened a retail store at 2 Great Jones Street in Noho (I attended the fantastic opening) and later added another location uptown at 128 East 91st. If you're not NYC-bound or based, there's a website: http://www.shopcaravan.com/ that includes a dazzlingly wonderful and large group of innovative designers. That's a photo of the van which was projected on the frames of the runway prior to the show. Caravan's products and merchandise are a hip mix of contemporary clothing, accessories, gift items, and art in a "Barney's" style that caters to both male and female fashionistas with a range of price-points and styles. If you can't find something to ooh and aah about at Caravan, especially in the chic setting designed by Greg Finney, you're not looking very hard! very hard!

Which brings me to the real reason for this post--the Caravan Fashion Week Runway Show held at the Metropolitan Pavilion on 19th Street last night. I moved with vigor to get downtown, right after the Tadashi Shoji runway show at the Promenade in the Bryant Park Tents, ended. With 23 designers from all over the world, this was an amazing show not just for the range of designers and the high-energy atmosphere, but for the sheer size of it. I wondered at the organization that must have gone into producing a professional show this large, that seemingly went off without a hitch. Backstage, it must have been absolutely mayhem, but you'd never know it from the front of the house.

To make it easy to recognize each designer, a slide of their logo was projected on the walls of the runway frame. Photography was challenging from my vantage point, but a picture is still worth a thousand words. With this many designers, I am just going to let my photos speak for me (but visit Caravan or the online store, to see even more designs and designers):

First up was Vivienne Westwood, the funky, English designer who has launched innovative collections for several decades. Following were: J. Lindeberg (Sweden); I R O (France); Sretsis (Thailand); Steelo (USA); HOSS Intropia (Spain); Walter Baker (USA); By Malene Birger (Denmark); Kimberly Foley (USA); H. Fredriksson (Sweden); Fred Perry (England); Rojas (USA); Social Atelier (USA), Scanty (USA); Loomstate (USA); Blue Marline (USA); Green Collective (USA); Drifter (USA); Heavy Rotation (USA); Blake Standard (USA); Edun (USA); Keep a Child Alive (Africa); Purp7e (Brazil); Mood of Norway (Norway)

After the show, those whose feet still had some "spring" left in them, wandered around the Sunsilk, Nikon, MaxFactor and Mercury displays. Show-goers also got canvas tote bags filled with products, courtesy of Caravan and their sponsors.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/12/07- Tadashi Shoji

When there are three beauty queens in the front row (photo), you know special occasion gowns must be in the offerings. Miss USA Rachel Smith, Miss Teen USA Hilary Cruz, and Former Miss USA Tara Connor were all there for eveningwear designer, Tadashi Shoji. The designers is a favorite of celebrities, including Shakira, Vanessa Williams, Tyra Banks, Claudie Schiffer, Queen Latifah, Halle Berry, Minnie Driver, and Jennifer Hudson.

Mr. Shoji's Spring 2008 luxury eveningwear collection enthralled everyone in the audience at his show in the Promenade--the last Bryant Park tent show of the Spring collections. He may design pageant gowns for pretty contestants, but his evening designs also include flowing pants outfits, and short dresses in fluid, iridescent, "Butterfly-wing" fabrics that (photo above) that would be suitable and coveted by any woman.

The attention to detail was breathtaking. Dresses in whisper-light chiffon arrived on the runway in multi-layers of coordinated silk chiffon and metallic organza, many with overlays of lighter material that floated by as the models walked, turning them into beautiful butterflies with outstretched wings on the runway. These ethereal evening gowns also featured lots of pleating and back details, to ensure that a a woman looks amazing coming towards you as well as walking away. A novel (but not necessarily comfortable) detail was a dress and a pants outfit (photo, right) with a bamboo "corset" (photo right)

As models literally floated down the runway, all wearing the same, strappy, high-heeled silver sandals, the dresses rippled around them like soft, lapping waves on the ocean--not unlike Tadashi Shoji's runway show invitation, which was a postcard of ripplying blue, white and aqua waves, with a filmy, white overlay with the show details on it.

The collection had lots of muted violet, seafoam, oyster, white, opaline, and dusty pink, and lilac, but there was brilliant color too, such as in this red pants outfit, plus a few expected pieces in black, and even in green and brown.

...Tadashi Shoji strutted down his own runway at the end of the show, waving his arms in victory. Judging from the enthusiastic applause, he not only deserved it, he made plenty of new fans who (celebrity or not) will seek out his incredible dresses when they need to be breathtaking!

The masses of romantic, Raphaelite hair was a perfect topping to these beautiful clothes, designed by the talented Rodney Cutler for Cutler/NYC/Redken. Makeup, featuring dramatic eyes (but nothing too dark) and moist pink lips was by Luc Bouchard and the MAC Pro Team. Manicures by Honey. *To see moe photos of hair, makeup, nails and clothes, check out the AdviceSisters Features Page http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html for the latest features, each month.

all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® FEEL FREE TO LINK TO ANY POST but no portion of advicesisters text or illustrations may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/11/07- Carmen Marc Valvo

Outside, it was dreary and gloomy, a fitting atmosphere to remember 9/11, but inside the Bryant Park tents, Carmen Marc Valvo whisked us away to a world of Springtime glamour. Beloved for his red-carpet gowns, the designer's collection this morning also featured shorter cocktail dresses a bit of daywear, and some swimsuits that would make any woman feel like a celebrity. As the final pieces of collection went down the runway, the ethereal soundtrack (music by Michel Gaubert) reminded me that the clothes felt fluid and ethereal, too. Sea shells, with their seductive spiral structure and soft, iridescent hues, were the designer's inspiration. And, like nature's creations, those of Carmen Marc Valvo were naturally beautiful.

The clothes felt seductive and the moved with the models in whispery ripples and flutterings that were quite feminine, but elegant and sophisticated, not in the coquettishly-girly way that I've seen in many collections so far. Tiers of soft, silk, satin, organza, chiffon and gazar flowed in tiers of pleating and ruffles, reminiscent of the complicated interiors of genuine shells. The designer used the word "Gazar" to describe some of his fashions, including light as a feather, crisp, billowing organza blouses with lots of showy ruffles ("gazar" is a loosely woven silk with a crisp finish), but these extravagant creations were reigned in on the bottom, with the model's waists often constricted with belts (the "must-have" trend for Spring 2008) and tamed with tailored, slimmer pants.

Many of the cocktail dresses featured a longer skirt length and an almost demure use of high necks, many with ruffles, with the "sexiness" coming from the movement of the tiered skirts, as you can see from the model in the black dress on the left.

There were also a few swimsuits in this collection. The navy swimsuit with wide black belt covered elegantly with an oyster colored silk organza trench coat would turn heads for sure, and looks chic and sexy, without being over-the-top, "barely-there." Also included in this season's collection was a new Carmen Marc Valvo sunglasses collection, created by Carmen and Signature Eyewear, Inc. The chunky, brightly-colored frames are going to help women make a fashion statement when they debut this Spring, and they'll range from $150-$350

The talented Odile Gilbert, sponsored by Redken 5th Avenue, did elegant, but slightly loosened updos. Makeup was created by the also talented Tom Pecheux for Art and Commerce, and the MAC Pro Team, sponsored by MAC Cosmetics, and nails by Creative Nail Design.

all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved-The Advice Sisters®. FEEL FREE TO LINK TO ANY POST ON MY BLOG, but do not copy this text or illustrations without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/11/07- TIBI

Season after season, I enjoy viewing the TIBI collection. Tibi designer and founder, Amy Smilovic, designs a range of bright and interesting prints that match her sense of style, with each collection heavily influenced by Amy’s lifestyle and travels throughout Asia and Europe, including the beaches of Bali, forests of New Zealand and Mediterranean landscape of Capri.

You could almost feel the sunlight in this Spring 2008 collection, featuring a palette exclusively of brown, green and beige mixed with white, with bold patterns that looked exotic and almost tribal. Longer length day dresses and ruffled collars predominated. The look was youthful, but chic and urban, balanced wider tops and cropped jackets belted over wide legged pants, for example, or a long, soft beige cardigan sweater made chic, belted over pants. And, speaking of belts, TIBI featured them in wide and slim versions.

But many of the dresses had nipped-in belted waists with full skirts, that reminded me a bit of the daytime version of the Bill Blass Spring 2008 collection...very demure, a bit more ladylike than previous seasons, with more structure to the clothes than the previous seasons. As "Susie Q" blared from the background, the vibe was back-to-the-50's, but with modern colors and a slightly less structured silhouette. The slightly retro, urban chic look was followed through with very high, very sleek ponytails that swung madly from side to side as the models sashayed down the runway. The makeup was moist and a bit bronzed, with coral/pink lips.

STYLE360/Nili Lotan Deisgn Studio/Sylvia Heisel at Bo Concept

After three years, Stylelounge has rebranded itself as STYLE360, involved with some of the most innovative fashion shows this season. They are billed as "an alternative FashionWeek destination" but the designers are talented professinals, providing a refreshing and unique perspective on where fashion is heading, plus a change from the action at the Bryant Park Tents.

I didn't have time to attend the Nikon-hosted launch party at Henri Bendel, but I did attend the Nili Lotan runway show on Monday night at the Metropolitan Pavilion. Elle and Mercury Mariner teamed to host the Mercury Style Award, which Lotan, won. More than 54,000 Ellen Magazine readers voted by text and online to decide which designer should would win the coveted runway show, and by doing so, entered themselves in a contest to win a trip to NYC and a shopping spree at Henri Bendel (not sure who won the trip, but I'm sure she was delighted)! The competing designers were asked to create a signature piece that would exemplify the range and style of their label. Nili Lotan was victorious. The other talented finalists were Marci Zaroff and Minden Chan.

Before the actual event, guests had some time to enjoy the air conditioning (it was extremely humid outside) along with a chocolate bar and bottle of water, in a signature, brown and white-striped Henri Bendel mini shopping bag (Henri Bendel is celebrating 100 years of its signature stripe). I got to the venue early, so I had time to check out some attractive, new Mercury SUVs that can be ordered in 4or 6 horsepower, or a new hybrid model. They feature roomy interiors, keyless entry, and large, user-friendly dashboards. There were exhibits for Elle online, and Nikon cameras, plus a makeup artist on hand to touch up the humid, melting makeup on the faces of weary Fashion Week attendees such as yours truly.

The music, featuring Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones, had to be the coolest of any runway this season. And, I have to admit, while many of the clothes had a hippie-ish, bohemian feel, the mixture of soft cotton voile dresses, crisp button down blouses, plus silky evening gowns, shorts and swimsuits, provided a chance for the designer to outfit a modern woman from day to evening, for every occasion. The five photos above show the range of the collection, from cute, casual, bandanna shorts with a grey hoodie, to tight, ivory ankle pants worn with a barely-there halter top, to an Oscar-worthy, sleek, silky evening gown.

Belts in contrasting colors have been seen in virtually every collection, and Nili Lotan's was no exception. But the mixture of a red belt over a pencil skirt, with a camisole layered on the outside of a cotton blouse (and worn with a red, paisley bandanna ascot in the neckline) was witty and fun. This is a look you could easily re-create right now, at home.

After the fashion show, there was a party around the corner, for designer Sylvia Heisel and Max Factor at the fashionable Bo Concept store. Bo Concept seems to be everywhere there is fashion, these days. They also designed the lounge for The Daily suite at the Bryant Park Hotel for Fashion Week. Clothes (inside), cars (by Mercury, outside), and cocktails (everwhere) were the order of the night. My aching feet urged me home before the party got started, but beautiful models in gorgeous designer duds, Elle Mag goodie bags, and fun for the fashion crowd, was evident!

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/10/07- Luca Luca

Soft fabrics, soft colors, and simply designs were the order of the day at Luca Luca. The mostly mauve and very light pastel collection was a change from the bright yellows, greens, blues and pinks that are in abundance this season. The Spring/Summer 2008 collection was inspired by the modern stained glass. As the press literature informed me: "organic and geometric shapes are fused into the prints, construction and silhouette. Color effects are achieve through transparencies and degradation of pattern and scale."

The trend for Spring is definitely the dress, once again, in lightweight fabrics that show soft movement as you walk. Ivory, mauve, ombre, seafoam, dove grey, blush, and violet, with a few soft hits of turquoise, defined Luca Luca's designs, using delicate fabrics such as silk and rayon, chiffon, taffeta, and wool gauze. I didn't catch all of the details from my vantage point, but the simple designs had more than meets the eye, including artful wraps and tucks to add interest to the otherwise mild palette. I would call the overall look "soft, wearable, sophistication."

Stick-straight, super-shiny hair was held back by a large, white, rectangular barrette on just one side. Jewelry was provided by Verdura, the shoes, by Luca Luca. From my vantage point, the collection spoke softly, but carried a big (fashion) stick. No need for glitter, brashness, or brights. These clothes, flatter!

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/11/07- Milly

Milly by Michelle Smith, launched in 2002, the Milly website calls the youthful designs: "sexy, feminine, glamorous, and sophisticated." This delightful, 40-piece collection managed to combine both wearable fashions for chic women, with a playful sexiness. The inspiration for this collection was Grey Gardens, mixed with the sassy and a bit devilish attitude of a pampered EastCoast princess, summering in Connecticut or perhaps, the Hamptons. Note the cute blue sky and green rolling hills backdrop in the photo below.

Preppy, brightly colored cardigan twinset-type sweaters were tucked into skirts and pants, making the preppy look pretty and relevant to today's woman. There were plenty of patterns in classic springtime colors such as the navy and white zig-zag prints you can see in the photo above on the right. Also lots of lime green, yellow, navy and pink.

Accessories included cute, cotton "cloche" hats tied in the back with a silky ribbon, and (less successful but obviously a Springtime trend) were turbans. The shoes, by Manolo Blahnik, were quite pretty and worked with virtually everything from swimsuits to dresses, although the high heel with the thong between the toes on such a strappy high heel might make these "sit down" shoes for most women.

Pretty, bright nails are a must-have with fashion. The models are moving on the runway, and it's often difficult to appreciate the role that manicures and pedicures play in creating an entire look. In the photo on the left, veteran manicure professional Angelina, from Creative Nail Design, told me that for Milly she was using a bright, cheerful pink called "Trophy," on both finger and toes. It simply screams "Spring! You can see how effective this color is from the closeup photo of the Manolo Blahnik sandals, above. Creative Nail Design is the nail company of the runways. We talked a bit about trend forecasting, and how the public relations team, stylists, and designers decide what's hot, and what's not, for the coming season. For details on the products used and what's going to be hot for nails, for Spring 2008, check our FEATURES page http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September

Makeup for Milly was created by Romy Soleimani (in purple on the left) to show a woman with confidence but also with a bit of spunk. The eyes were beautiful, blending two new new MAC paint pots in lime green and a gorgeous turquoise, with creamy white, that was blended, blended and blended some more. The pink lip gloss called "Fulfilled" was shiny, but without shimmer or glitter. The foundation was moist and fresh, with just a hint of bronzer. To see the actual colors and see lots more photos of hair, makeup, nails and clothes, check out the MILLY feature --I'll post the link to it on our Features Page http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html when it's created, probably mid-month.

On the left you can see the charming hairstylist Kevin Ryan, who has formed his own company with fashion stylist Frank Rizzieri, putting their 40 years of experience together. Their new company, RSession Tools, has some unique hair styling tools, including a dual-tonged curling iron called the Nalu waver, which Kevin is using on the model on the left to create the amazing, natural looking waves seen in the ponytail on the right. By "weaving" strands of hair under and over the Nalu waver, the curls are soft and loose and look incredibly natural, as if their own hair cooperated without any intervention from mechanical devices! I hope to bring you reviews of RSession Tools in an upcoming What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column.

As I was heading for the "cheap seats" I spied my friend, fashion designer/actress Esther Nash posing for eager photographers in the front row. She posed for me as well, making sure I could see the beautiful, elegant, Judith Ripka jewelry on her wrists and fingers. Esther is not only talented and lovely, but sweet and gracious, too. If only all the front-row-ers would act like her!!!

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/9/07- Couture Fashion Week at the St. Regis Ballroom

While the main fashion events may be in the tents at Bryant Park, those who love fashion can find showcases of talent every day of the week, as any fan of "Sex and the City" knows (Sarah Jessica Parker as Carrie Bradshaw seemed to be oogling the runway in every show). For those who can't get enough up-close-and-personal designer fashion, there's Couture Fashion Week and Bridal Fashion Week, multi-day events showcasing luxury couture and fine fashion including eveningwear, elegant fashion, couture bridal as well as accessories. Attendees include upscale consumers, invited VIPs, the press and selected high-end store buyers.
Last night, I attended one of these shows, featuring Katerina Bocci from Albania, and Margaret Nagel of Canada. The two-designer show was held in the very elegant, crystal chandeliered ballroom of the very elegant St. Regis Hotel. After being at the tents during the day, the Couture Fashion Weeek's pre-cocktail hour with champagne, the appearance of the elegant Miss Florida, and the chance to check out some high-end handbags (gorgeous, with interchangeable handles) and other luxury items, was a treat. If there's one thing I learned about fashion last night, it's never place yourself in a photo next to a beauty queen!

First to show a small group of wedding gowns was the The Canadian designer Margaret Nagel. Part of Couture Fashion Week. The designer is known for her hand crafted evening and bridal gowns, suits, coats, accessories and high quality one-of-a-kind jewelry. Mrs. Nagel's fashion designs are characterized by impeccable tailoring, attention to detail and an abundance of finely worked elements such as embroidery, hand beading and double stitched seams. Apparently, she has expertise in working with high quality leathers, deerskin, suede and furthat she honed during the dozen years she worked with Heasman’s Furs in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan! No leather or fur, but lots of white, ivory and bridal lace was presented at this, her New York debut. The sweet ensemble on the left, with huge bridal hat and veil, would flatter a young, first time bride, while the more elegant strapless gown would be perfect for a second-time bride or just for a woman who needs a flattering and sophisticated gown for a special event. As with many of the fashions I've seen this week, a ribbon sash/belt encircles this second gown.

N Next, showcasing a much larger collection of special event evening gowns was Albanian native Katerina Bocci. I was sitting next to a young woman eagerly awaiting the arrival on the runway of her friend, model Madelene Lukic. If I got the information correctly, this was Madelene's first appearance as a runway model. Judging from the photos, I'd say the tall and elegant Madelene did a fabulous job. Good luck in your career, Madelene!

The gowns in this collection were unique, but wearable. Still, with large ruffled colors, and many dresses in a "tulip" shape, they had an inmistakeable "I-love-the-80's" vibe. After graduating from the renowned SITAM Institute of Design in Padova, Italy, Ms. Bocci opened her own fashion atelier in Albania. In 2001 she moved to the Detroit. where local TV news anchors Lila Lazuras and Rhonda Walker are fans. She designer an evening gown for a photo shoot by Fadil Berisha Studio in New York with Miss Universe 2006 Zuleyka Rivera, and Miss Albania Sadina Alla in the 2007 Miss Universe pageant (that's Miss Florida in yellow, eyeing a striking black and red-accented gown).

A standout for me was this body conscious, brilliant blue, strapless, iridescent, tafetta gown, with a tulip-shaped hem tight to the hips. Worn with a suite of sapphires, you'd sparkle more than anyone in the room!

Here's the designer, in a simple black dress, with one of her models, taking her well-deserved walk on the runway.

all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® FEEL FREE TO LINK TO ANY POST ON MY BLOG, but please be mindful of my property! No portion of advicesisters text or illustrations may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/9/07- Reem Acra

How could you not love a designer who sets her tiny, fluffy, white dog onto the runway at the finale? Designer Reem Acra's special occasion and evening gowns were as pretty and perky as her little dog. The designer's notes said: "This season explores the theory of rejuvenation, keeping the looks fresh and ethereal with a modern touch. The common thread through the collection is the emphasis on the waist and the refined feeling of luxury. "

The 40 piece collection was 100% evening wear, and 100% glamorous, with no daywear being shown in this collection. The theme of Spring seems to be "Old Hollywood glam rags, with a "young, modern twist." As with several of the designers collections I've seen so far, the emphasis is on pretty but very waist defining dresses that will make some women want to watch their waistlines a bit more. You can't wear wide belts with full skirts and not look bizarre, if you aren't in shape.

Although the overall feeling of these evening clothes is still "old Hollywood glamour with a "young, modern twist," Reem Acra jazzed them up with lots of swingy, tiered layers of wide ruffles, black lace mixed with purple in a nod to the boudoir, and surprise element such as mix-and-match colors of bright yellow, purple, green, and red mixed and matched with super-pointy, super-high, supercharged colored pumps in contrasting colors to the clothes. Belts were fashion accessories to brighten up the feel of nearly every dress, including the gold sequined slip dress with purple belt to the left, and the sexy, sequined black gown with lingerie elements to the right.

The silky, luxe fabrics in organza, lace, taffeta and silk were indeed expensive looking and elegant, but it was the color that made this collection special, such as this brilliant, green dress (I believe the color was called "fern") worn with shoes finished in 22 karat gold by Max Acra for Reem Acra. It looks especially striking on this red-haired model, but a dress in a bold color like this would turn every head in the room on any woman--no genuine emeralds required.

Straight, textured hair by Gavin Harwin and pink lips with glowing skin by Christian McCullouch for MAC, plus ladylike manicures from Creative Nail Design, complete every woman's "Grace Kelly" look.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/8/07- Academyof Art University

I was really looking forward to my last show of the night in the Bryant Park Tent, featuring recent grads from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Although it's great to see what the established designers will be wowing us with come Springtime, the young designers can get away with a less commercial look, and their enthusiasm is palpable. With 9 different designers showing 5-10 designs each, this show progressed very quickly from one designer to the other. It was obvious that many family and friends were in the audience, and they spontaneously cheered as their favorite designers, models and clothes filled the runway with the sort of riotous color and sometimes over-the-top fashions that fill young designers with palpable energy. This San Francisco-based design school has been showing their brightest and best graduates at fashion week since September, 2005. The school puts their proverbial money where their mouths are, supporting their graduate designers to help them launch their careers and have their collections seen by as many industry people as possible. And what better place than NY Fashion Week? This long report features just a sample of what we saw last night, with some "fashion stars" sure to be born!

First up was Andrea Vence, MFA Textile and Fashion Design. Her silhouettes are based on traditional Japanese kites, consisting of a bamboo or wooden frame with paper painted in bold motifs from legendary war heroes to geometric patterns. Most of Andreas designs were black and bold yellow, two worn with box-like hats decorated with sparkling champagne bottles.

Tara Shannahan, MFA Fashion Design Tara created a stark, white, linen collection based on the fracture and instability that the 1906 San Francisco earthquake caused. and applying these elements to her artfully wrapped, designs.

Kathryn Scully, MFA Knitwear Design Kathryn created a collection of beachwear with bikinis, cover-ups and sweaters based on her family vacations to the Atlantic Coast. The cut outs made for sexy cover-ups that would look cute layered with tank tops and T-shirts, too. The "Borg like" floral creations covering the models' ears, were a bit strange, but the collection was fun and wearable, mostly in tones of pink and grey.

Pittsburg PA native James Yoest, MFA Fashion Design and Taipei, Taiwan native Chia-yu 'Sharon' Yeh, MFA Textile Design were inspired by the rhythm of San Francisco and used a collection of conventional, reused and organic fabrics, including a parachute. The modern, oversized sweater dresses were cute and casual but the orchid sprays used as "hats" were a bit disconcerting!

For some reason, I can't identify any of my photos from Jiyoon 'Lydia' Yeom, MFA Knitwear Design. Jiyoon looked at our busy lives and felt we should search our souls and return to nature. Her designs were comfy, casual and wearable. Her soft-looking, oversized hoodie would be welcome in anyone's wardrobe!

Chinese Born Kenneth Ning, BFA Menswear Design Kenneth, actually premiered his first menswear collection at the April '07 San Francisco show, but he produced additional looks for this New York show. Inspired by the Champion Italian Soccer Team, Forza Azzurri, there was a lot of patent leather and shiny fabrics on very cute young men. This navy coated linen jacket with ultra-marine blue patent leather trousers are typical of the designs, that I think will appeal mostly to very young, avant-garde, confident men, but a zippered, black patent jacket would look great on the girls, too.

One of my favorite designers of the evening was Yi-Ting 'Maxim' Lee, MFA Knitwear Design. Maxim was inspired by JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, a manga written and illustrated by Hirohiko Araki. The Japanese comic is famous for its original art style, over-the-top violence, intricate plot and rock music references. Her patchwork dress with super-shiny, metallic leggings seemed well balanced, and street-edgy, not crazy. The orange and pink sweater dress could be worn with less amusing legwear, which could be worn with less amusing sweaters to make these everyday elements in a chic woman's wardrobe. A favorite with the crowd was Haa Cheng Thai, MFA Fashion Design Kirigami, the Japanese art of paper folding and cutting, inspired Haa Cheng, shown through her shapes, folds, and laser-cut fabrics. Haa Cheng is from Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, a suburb of the capital Kuala Lumpur. Maxim is from Taipei, Taiwan. This brown, laser cut dress with pleated olive skirt was a showstopper. The cutting and folding technique the designer used was elegant and unique, not to mention extremely detailed and quite beautiful.

The bright patterns and easy, breezy, loose dresses by Kyung Min Kim, MFA Textiles and Fashion Design, reminded me so much of childhood, and Springtime. And, I guess that was the intent, since the simple shapes, which act like canvases for her textile work, were inspired by fairy tales from her childhood. Kyung Min premiered her textile designs during New York Fashion Week in September 2006 when she collaborated on a collection with MFA Fashion Designer Mari Matsumoto. This is her own collection, and it was quite adorable. I would call it "wearable fun/art."

MinSun Lee, MFA Knitwear and Fashion Design showed the most eye-catching and adorable collection of the evening, inspired by Russian Matryoshka dolls. The Matryoshka style was identifiable by its small dots. For me, the collection, with it's odd helmets, reminded me more of Japanese Anime than anything steeped in Russian culture, but the sweater dresses were simply adorable, and surprisingly wearable. I think this collection would be snapped up by women of all ages, sizes and shapes, perhaps worn with leggings or pants, or heavy, textured hose.

all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® FEEL FREE TO LINK TO ANY POST ON MY BLOG, but please be mindful of my property! No portion of advicesisters text or illustrations may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/8/07- Rosa Chá

It was standing room only (in multiple rows) at the Rosa Chá swimsuit runway show. When you mix fashion and swimsuits, everyone wants to see them. The designer, I now know produces collections which range from bikinis and one piece suits, to a wide range of after beachwear such as (sarongs, saris, towels.


But THIS show is about swimwear and nothing but. Ivana Trump and Mena Suvari are fans (that's Ivana to the immediate left of the model on the left, looking intently at the fashions, perhaps to figure out what to wear on her next yacht sojurn?)

Set to a Brazillian beat with a soundtrack created by DJ Ze Pedro, models strutted their stuff down the runway in suits a woman could actually wear without scandal, such as this high-necked bikini. There were also one-piece suits and suits with boyshorts, that women of any age would wear without having to lavish the sunscreen on parts of the bodythat had never seen the light of day, boldly exposed to the sun by barely-there swimwear (Eg. some of the sexy. nearly-swimsuit designs in the Gottex show earlier in the week).

Happily, there wasn't a black suit in the bunch, and the collection was full of color, although it was in subuded tones of light pinks, purple, white, black, grays, and a few shades of blue and green. Although I wasn't able to get photos of them, a number of the swimsuits were festooned with jewelled "breastplates" and "necklaces" that not only sparkled in the light, but could make these suits do double-duty as sexy evening tops. Here's the designer taking his well-deserved walk down the runway with two of his lovely models.

I didn't get an up-close-and-personal look at the hair and makeup, but I can tell you that the makeup was created by Gordon Espinet for MAC Cosmetics, and the long, loose, sexy, textured hair was done by the Warren Tricomi Salon.


all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of advicesisters text or illustrations may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/8/07-Temperly London

The invitation for the Temperly London runway show at the Promenade in the Bryant Park tents was a textured white cardboard with elegant, black script lettering and a black and photo photo of 1920's bathing beauties sitting on an old jalopy. Really cute! And the Temperly London Spring 2008 collection could be called cute and elegant, too. The program notes suggest that the Temperly Spring/Summer 2008 collection was inspired by French seaside scenes of the 1930's, from Deauville to Biarritz. "Spring/Summer 2008 includes a new array of new silhouttes and plays on volume and proportion. Voluminous sleeves are paired with constricted waistlines and corsetry details whilst fabrics are manipulated with layers, frills, drapes and folds."

Of course, there were celebrities, supporting the British look. I believe the front row sported Demi Moore and Molly Sims seated next to stylist Rachel Zoe, but don't quote me on it! What I did notice were the cute "beach" umbrellas framing the runway entrance.

The collection, in my words, was youthful, diverse, and sophisticated. There were a lot of swingy short dresses, and quite a few designs with what I'd call "flamenco" ruffles, poet sleeves, and defined waists. The Black Label design for evening included stones and crystals, mounted like jewelry and decorating straps and waistbands to catch the light. A long, clingy, gold lame gown (walked down the runway to a modern musical mix of "Fever") was completely a nod to 1930's movie glamour, I would wager a bit that some of the evening dresses in this colelction will be snapped up by young Hollywood to wear to movie premieres and awards shows next season. Photography was a challenge at this show, but here is the hot, hip fashion model Agyness Deyn in the first dress of the collection, the white Cecelia Dress and White Bow Belt. A "miss" for me were unusual turbans with twisted braid in bright colors created by Patricia Underwood for Temperly that just looked to casual, too chunky and mismatched with the filmy, clingy, lightweight clothes on the runway.

Charlotte Tilbury did the makeup for MAC, which featured bold red lips in a warmer red than Fall's "dragon lady" tones. I'll get the actual details of the makeup later, but it looked like the eyes featured a metallic copper. he hair by Alain Pinchon for Aveda was quite interesting although I didn't get a good photo of it. The style was half up, half down, but brushed very close to the head on top and then twisted elegantly down the back of the head to leave a "rat tail." The look was a bit like a modern mullet, but mussed up on top to keep the "beachy" theme of the clothes. Christian Louboutin and World Tone provided the shoes.

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this blog or any advicesisters content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/8/07- Twinkle by Wenlan Runway Show

For Fall 2000, Taipei native, designer Wenlan Chia launched Twinkle's first collection of cute and colorful, hand-knit sweaters and accessories, followd by a runway show at the February 2003 Gen Art Fresh Faces Fashion Show. Success quickly followed, and I remember the very first show I ever saw at my very first Fashion Week was, in fact, a Fall collection of her signature look: youthful, colorful, chunky knit sweaters (in that collection, with oversized buttons and shapes) and other accessories. The backdrop for the runway was a striking, delicate, almost tribal design in shades of brilliant blue and black (photo) that was carried through on the invitation and press information, which called the Spring 2008 collection: "playful, sportif, and full of energy--from the drama of seascapes and the beauty of nature to the razor sharp edge of graphic prints and sculpted etails, a renewed sense of easy, relaxed glamour and sophistication emerges."

Well, from my vantage point in the Bryant Park Salon, I might not have categorized the collection quite that way, but unlike many of the shows, whose clients are red-carpet focused, this collection will offer Twinkle by Wenlan fans the option to wear her designs any day of the week, for virtually any occasion.

While Twinkle's Spring 2008 collection did have some sweaters, and even some pastel sweater dresses (photo on the left) with a dominant color theme of creamy peach and creamy gray with taupe and white, there were tons of cute, sassy, for play and for day clothes, as well as some short party dresses for evening (photos below):

It's hard to see from my photos, but the models also wore Twinkle-designed Manolo Blahnick footwear featuring flats in suede and patent, tiny mini-straps, peep toes, and of course, glam high heels.

Now that fashion week is in full swing, I'm beginning to see some dominant trends appearing. As you can see from this photo, loose, long hair is coming back into fashion again, but for Spring it isn't glossy and stick-straight anymore. The runways are full of long, loose, bouncy hairstyles with texture in them in the form of loose waves. It looks fresh and modern and slightly edgy, and definitely not as "girly" as in season's past. You can re-create these looks with curling irons and crimpers, or with rag curls brushed out as Johnnie Sapong for Redken did at the Cynthia Rowley show earlier in the week. Thomas Hintermeier for Redken did this hair look for the Twinkle show. Textured hair is important for short styles as well, which I suspect we'll be seeing cropping up (pun intended) in the Spring, as well.

Many of the casual clothes were playful and loose, with cropped pants and swing-y tops, and although the fashion press is raving about the end of the balloon dress and loose clothing, I am happy that there are still options for women who don't want to scrape themselves into tight, super-body-conscious clothes (especially in hot weather, when the proper undergarmets are a must-have). Scarves seem to be a trend for next season. So far I've seen this often forgotten fashion item cropping up in shows as everything from headwraps to cover-ups, to belts, to around-the-neck accessories. At the Twinkle show, a scarf was playfully wrapped through belt loops of shorts, and tied in a bow in the back--adorable! Get out those mothballed long scarves from decades past and do the look at home, cute with jeans, for Fall! Another trend that will not die are super-short minis. These look sweet on the runway, but in reality, you couldn't bend or sit down in them. I am guessing that slightly longer lengths will make it into the stores, or the more modest of us will be wearing the minis with some sort of leggings or pants under them.


The manicures were done by Creative Nail Design. The makeup look that featured pink lips (all I could really see) was created by Charlie Green with the MAC Pro Team. I will get the details of products used and let you know how to do the look, in the more AdviceSisters detailed fashion features I'll be creating after this crazy week is over. Check the AdviceSisters FEATURES page at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September, where I will be listing all the Fashion Week Spring 2008 features as they are posted.

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this blog or any advicesisters content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Fashion Week -- Italian Shoes!

On Saturday morning, there was a brunch reception in the lobby of the Bryant Park Fashion Week tents, to allow an up-close-and-personal view of the Accessories exhibit: "I LOVE ITALIAN SHOES", made possible by The Italian Trade Commission in collaboration with the Association of Italian Footwear Manufacturers.



Editors, stylists, and guests sipped mimosas, juice or refreshing iced tea, and enjoyed a variety of brunch-oriented finger foods, while checking out the myriad, creative and sophisticated shoes highlighting Italian shoe design. Italian shoes are coveted by fashionable men and women around the world for their beauty and functionality. The exhibit is in view from September 5th through September 12th in the Bryant Park tent.

My favorite shoe was a gold platform sandal, studded with crystals. Maybe not so practical for this writer to wear on the NYC streets, but they would definitely turn heads!

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/8/07- Rebecca Taylor

As a cat lover, I can't help but adore Rebecca Taylors' logo, and I can't help but smile when I look at photos from the Spring 2008 collection, which included these bright, pretty, feminine and Spring-y dresses:








Key elements in the collection included color blocking, graphic prints, sporty grey and bold colors, and cropped jackets. Color Blocking, Graphic Prints, Sporty/Grey Bold Colors and Cropped Jackets. Of note was the hair--an eye-catching, off-center topknot, that reminded me a bit of the one Odile Gilbert did for the Carmen Marc Valvo show for Fall 2007.


Front row celebs included Carmen Electra, Emmy Rossum, and Mena Suvari, who oogled the clothes from the front row. Doubtless, her non-celeb fans will be oogling these come Springtime, as well!

Fashion Week Editor's Lounges

Attending fashion week if you're an editor/writer/photographer/media professional, is a privilege, but it can also be exhausting. Luckily, for some, their long days and nights are made just a little bit more gentle, by companies who set up courtesy suites during Fashion Week. Entry is by invitation only, but once inside, the lounges and suites provide a place to just sit for a while, re-hydrate, have a light snack, network, and enjoy some pampering before going back to work.

After chatting with the Playtex reps and taking in some "typical tent ambiance" this morning, I strolled over to the Bryant Park hotel and visited the BOOTS suite, a virtual sanctuary, with cushy chairs, light beverages and snacks, and even better, massage and reflexology treatments for those aching muscles that have been seriously overtaxed by standing, standing and standing! My lovely, model-esque BOOTS PR contact was there to greet me (with a smile), and chat until the next guests arrived. While I sipped tea in this cool, tranquil setting, I had a reflexology treatment on my very tired feet and believe me, it felt amazing. The painful, pinched nerves in my left foot barely hurt at all when I walked out (and this is NO lie)!

Of course, while sitting, I had time to check out all the newest and greatest BOOTS products for Fall and get a sneak peek at the holiday offerings. Trust me, you WILL love them! We will be reviewing BOOTS in our November and December columns....be sure to check them out! I was SO blissed out I forgot to take a photo of the lounge, but it was heaven. I really appreciated the opportunity to enjoy the Boots suite during Fashion Week, but I really love BOOTS products, especially the excellent and innovative skincare at modest prices (you can get BOOTs in Target stores and Target online, and at select CVS drugstores).

Also in the Bryant Park Hotel was THE DAILY suite. Celebrities such as magician David Blaine, not to mention to media, have been enjoyed The Daily suite, and I did too. Alcoholic drinks, Pom tea, and wine were available to sip while sitting in the Style Lounge on chic couches designed by Bo Concept. Guests could have their makeup re-done by artists working with Jane Iredale cosmetics, and the charming, curly hair king, Christo (who I met once at a luncheon for a launch of one of his new products), was also there, offering advice to women with curly (and not so curly) hair, and showcasing his products. I tested out a mini-manicure and hand massage, courtesy of Cygalle Healing Spa. Based on how great this quickie was, the signature 60 minute manicure (not to mention a 90-minute pedicure) must be absolute heaven! Healing Spa is a mobile spa, able to bring resources and services wherever they are requested, including special and private events. The creator, Cygalle, worked in fashion, film, beauty and entertainment. She has a line of products that you can purchase online, including a Healing Spa Loving Body Oil that is apparently a favorite of Carmen Electra that blends top-notes of orange and lime with exotic, sensual amber and honey. Use it on your hands and feet to scent and soften them or use it on your special someone (it isn't called romance body oil for nothing). Also used to perk up our faces and our spirits during our spa treatment was an Aromatherapy Facial Mist that was wonderfully scented with lavender. There are other products for sale at http://www.cygallehealingspa.com/.

The suite for two days only, is sponsored by The Daily, the bible of the fashionista, published every day of Fashion Week. Even if you're not going to a runway show, you can pick one up for free on the steps to the tents in Bryant Park during Fashion Week. There is also a "mini" published during the year, that is by subscription. A stack of The Daily was featured outside the suite, so you couldn't make the wrong turn and end up in someone's hotel room instead of at the suite!

Playtex Fits --Lisa Rinna at Bryant Park Tents

This morning in the tents, PLAYTEX launched a new advertising campaign ("Girl Talk") in which confident (and real women) talk about their breasts – often euphemistically as "the girls" – and the quest for finding a well-fitting bra that keeps "the girls happy" The web site is playtexfits.com. Playtex spokesperson and actress Lisa Rinna (in leopard, above) is best known for her roles on the popular soap opera Days of our Lives, and on Melrose Place. Most recently, the lovely (and very lithe) Lisa competed in the second season Dancing with the Stars, making it to Round Seven. She was on hand at the tents to kick off the campaign, and talk to women about her "girls" and their "girls." You can't see from the photo, but hers are certainly worthy of spokeswoman-status!

The playtexfits.com website just launched a few days ago, and it's worth a look just for fun, because it's cute, user-friendly, and features information for "the rest of us" who may not have model-like figures, and who are always on the quest for a more comfortable, better fitting bra. The site also gives everyone the opportunity to submit a line about bras and breasts like those featured in the ads, and also vote for favorite lines submitted by others that might someday be highlighted in future parts of this campaign. It's lighthearted, clever and lots of fun!

Should you wish to, you can send a "Girl Talk" e-card, or become a start by submitting videos of your own personal bra stories. A nice feature is "Roz," the site's virtual bra fitter. There are lots of Playtex lines to suit women from their first bra, to their last. I hope to review some for you in time for our holiday What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion review column.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/7/07-Cynthia Rowley

When I saw the line of brightly colored bicycles (obviously hand-painted with Cynthia Rowley signature design), I knew her Spring 2008 show would be unique, edgy and lots of fun, like all the shows of the previous season. The inspiration/theme for the Spring collection is "Le Sportif. "

F Cynthia's show is always held a short walk from the tents, in the beautiful and historic Gotham Hall on 36th Street and 6th Avenue. It's a spacious venue, although it isn't just used for runway shows, of course. The atmosphere (at least to me) seems less tense than backstage at the tents, although it might be a bit disconcerting for a fashion designer to house her collection in a hallway until showtime.



Backstage, Jonnie Sapong for Redken was busy getting the models ready. The romantic, feminine hair looked right in step with the youthful, reminine clothes. As you can see from the photo, it does take a lot of hands to do this look perfectly, but you might be able to re-create the look at home if you are able to work on the back of your head. Redken Hot Sets #22 was sprayed along with plain ole water, from root to tips of each section of the model's hair. Then it was rolled into a modern version of rag curls, around flexible rollers made of alumnium foil. A diffuser or a bonnet dryer was used on the models to dry the curls, thoroughly. The top of the head was flat with all hair behind the ears and following the girl's natural parts. but although I couldn't get a closeup of the finished result (hair wasn't brushed out until time for the show) but you can see that the look was long, loose, textured, and just a bit bouncy as the models walked the runway.


Makeup, by Charlotte Tilbury for Avon, featured new colors for Spring 2008. I will be offering complete details and lots more photos of the hair, clothes and makeup un my photo/text feature on Cynthia Rowley's show. Check our FEATURES page at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September, where I will be listing all the Fashion Week Spring 2008 features as they are posted. Lips were pink--actually, rasberry, featuring a lipstain and a gloss. As you can see, the focus is on the eyes, featuring navy, a softer look for a dramatic eye than Fall's black and charcoal. A light dusting of sheer bronzer with a tiny with of shimmer gave the models a subtle "glow." The look is polished and sexy, not "punk."

Celebrities are always a big part of any show, and Cynthia always has plenty. On the left is Lisa Edelstein, who plays Dr. Lisa Cuddy on the FOX Television show "House." On the right is a lovely young woman the photographers went crazy over. She obviously knows how to strike a pose. Someone please identify her for me?
I was sitting in the back, actually having a delightful discussion with a few of Cynthia Rowley's relatives. Great grandmother Amy was a charming conversationalist. Watching her eyes light up when her little great grandchild was brought by, was priceless! Alas, my photos, are not the best from this show, but here are some examples of what Cynthia Rowley has in store for her devoted fans, for Spring 2008. The colelction was full of flowing fabrics in light tones of taupe, light turqoise, light pink, and hits of lime. The clothes are fresh and body-conscious, but not so much that a non-model wouldn't be able to wear them. Cynthia seems to favor silky, drape-y fabrics, and these were in abundance, but not in super-shiny finishes as in Fall 2007. Long, delicate, silky scarves were a recurring theme in this show, used both with casual and evening wear, draped around the neck and flowing away from the back as the model moved forward.

Cynthia has a real sense of humor, always adding a surprise element into her shows (last year it was a giant braid, held by all the models at the finale). At one point models were being sent down the runway wearing headbands straight across their foreheads, like 1920's flappers, or worn sideways on the back of the head. And, there were a few goofier designs such as the dress of loopy fabrics worn here. At the end of the show, some of the models gingerly rode bicycles down the runway and around the back of the runway area. It was a fun, fitting end to a delightful show that is making me long for Spring already (and Fall just arrived). I'm wondering if Cynthia will consider a line of decorated bicycles for sale.....these were simply too cute! By the way, Cynthia was the final rider (my camera battery died right then, unfortunately)....what a way to end the show!!!!

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this blog or any advicesisters content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. Permissions: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Beautiful Bill Blass-Presentation Spring 2008

Last season's Bill Blass show was a full-sized Fashion Week Runway Show tent extravaganza . This season, Bill Blass chose to take it down a notch, and host a presentation in the 42nd Street Library. Trays of wine and water were passed around, as guests scrutinized two back to back "tableaux" of models, standing in two rows, occasionally shifting position as requested by photographers. There were lights, and there was background music, but what made this presentation great (in my opinion) was the ability of the viewers to walk around at will, looking at the dresses from different angles, and for as long as required to understand the clothes.

The Spring 2008 collection was inspired by the Bill Blass archives, according to the press information. As you can see from the photos above, the dresses for Spring 2008 from Bill Blass are "party" dresses for young, beautiful women or, as well put: "pretty young things." The debutante-type colors and luxurious fabrics seem to work effortlessly with the precise tailoring. There were lots of thing belts at the waist, to emphasize the fact that these are dresses, not throw on sacks. We saw lots of heavy, lustrous silk in ivory, blush, yellow, white, and maize, some decorated with jet, patent, lace, and mirrors, some with ribbon rosettes and sequins, and some, like this Maize-colored, silk shantung ballgown with sweetheart neckline and inverted pleat skirt, simply needed no adornment at all. The definite sillouttes, the belts, and the controlled but pretty hair reminded me a bit of 1950's career girl goes to a party. So different from the balloon dresses of last Spring, these clothes are structured, ladylike, and expensive looking. They're special occasion.charity event outfits, and not something the average women will wear to dinner at a local restaurant. They exude feminine power. I imagine a young woman wearing one of these dresses and flirting outrageously but still she appears a proper lady. What fun to be a girl!

It will be interesting to see what direction Peter Som, recently named creative director, will take the line. For now, this collection is a nod to what was, and a wink at what may be in the future.

Hair was done by Dennis Gotsoulos and the Hair Team provided by Cutler Salon. The makeup was done by Francelle Daily and the MAC Pro Team.

The literature ends by stating: "This collection is a nod to Mr. Blass, and undoubtedly, to the women of yesterday and today who will forever dress for themselves."

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this blog or any advicesisters content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/6/07-AngelDevil

I wasn't familiar with Angel Devil until I went to their reception/show at the Bryant Park Grill. I got a clue immediately, when these jaw-droppingly lovely guys came out and walked down the runway. How cute is this?

Features, cropped denim, sequins, chains, barely-there, see-through. It was all Sexy, Sexy, Sexy, Rock and Roll, but not too serious. It was rock and roll with a boudoir attitude, with lots of filmy fabrics, lurex, and glittery elements. These are perfect club/party clothes. Wearing most of the designs during the day might get you in a bit of trouble, unless you're in a rock band--then perhaps you can get away with it. But you know what? These sexy, glittery designs were simply FUN! Most of us could take one item from the collection and wear it with something more, uh, conservative and definitely enjoy the feeling. I think the photos speak for themselves.

The Devil Wears Prada and Becoming Jane star Jane Hathaway apparently doesn't always wear Prada....she seemed to enjoy the show, and graciously allowed us to take photos of her with the designers, one of whom is seen here, with an unidentified boy who appears to be holding his nose (trust me, nothing smelled bad in this lovely venue)! She is as lovely to look at in person and in the movies.

The makeup for this show was created by the adorable Rudy Miles for Aveda, and the "BIG" hair (hairpieces) was by Jon Reyman for Aveda. The high energy music was by Deejay Kevin Hedge, who graciously said "just get my best side" when I asked if I'd disturb him by standing next to his equipment to take photos.

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this blog or any advicesisters content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. Please do not take my work! If you want to use text or photo (with proper credit) please ask for permission first at: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/6/07-Terexov

There wasn't any press description of the inspiration for the Alexander Terexov Spring 2008 collection, but if I could sum it up in two words, they would be "zippers" and "snaps." Alarmingly, a lot of the clothes features full length zippers. The pearl rayon zipper back dress looks cute, but in practical terms, sitting on a large zipper isn't that comfy, and I could envision at least jokester literally undressing someone in these clothes with one wicked pull! At least the snaps were in the front of the clothes.

But the 28 year-old Russian designer is not new to Fashion Week, and his designs are worn by socialites, high profile Russians, and of course, Americans who appreciate the witty and edgy designs. As you can see here, there were plenty of dresses that are pretty and fashionable, but not over-the-top. The blush skirt with grey top could be worn just about anywhere! A few belted coats looked elegant over just about everything. The only misses were the long, rather shapeless dresses" that flowed nicely as the model walked, but looked to me like elegant robes or housecoats. The collection featured a lot of synthetics, surprising for designer fashion and for Spring's warmer weather, in colors primarily of blush pink, silver, grey, black and slate. I longed for more color!

The makeup, by Lyne Desnoyers for MAC Cosmetics, seemed to fit the sort of austere feeling in the clothes. The models had pale, matte light pink-ish coral lips, moist complexions, and lots of mascara on the eyes. Hair was a high, messy bun designed by Rita Hazen Salon. The look was casual, cute, swingy and loose.

If you watch reality TV, you will recognize "noted fashion photographer” and America’s Next Top Model judge Nigel Barker, in the front row with an unidentified woman.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Spring 2008-Gottex Runway Show

My last show of the day was actually the one I was most looking forward to because it was the Gottex show, and nothing says "warm weather ahead" like bathing suits. I was informed that supermodels from the September issue of Vanity Fair were walking in the show, including Fabiana, Cintia Decker, Yasmin Brunet, Emina, Guisela, Lisalla and Cisia.

I went backstage to talk to lead hair stylist for Redken, Hanan Shauriki, who was already busy at work creating an adorable and very unique ponytail for his first model. Basically, this very sleek ponytail is anything but same-old, same-old. The model's hair was painstakingly pulled sleek and straight, and hair extensions added. Then the hair was "sectioned" with clear plastic bands into three pieces, to give it dimension, and the very end piece was back-combed to give it a lion's tail look. Another piece of hair (or hair extension) was wrapped around the top of the ponytail, to give it a more chic look.

Lots of Redken products were on hand to keep this look under control, but Hanan basically used Curl Force #17 Texturing Spray Gel on the ponytail, while Fabricate #03 heat-activated texturizer, and Headplay #12 Pliable Working Spray kept the look sleek and in shape.

You might not be able to re-create this look as perfectly without an extra set of hands, but you can do a more simple version yourself if you have naturally long hair or are good with hair extensions. Be prepared to do a LOT of brushing to get that ponytail, perfectly straight! The models with shorter hair had it ironed stick straight, and slicked back for a perfect, Brazillian/beachy look.

I also watched Philippe (Chansel) work on his first model, Stacey. The look was to be a bit Brazillian "Carnevale" to reflect the bright colors and sexy styles of the swimsuits. As Philippe said, it's a "classic, sexy, Latin look." Lips were done in a corally pink, and of course, the emphasis was all on the eyes, with a slightly upturned line on top for sex appeal. Of course, there was a bit of bronzer which was also dusted on collarbones and anywhere else the sun might actually shine.

And what of the Gottex Show? It was one of the longest shows yet--with 72 different pieces including two women (Fatou and Ajuma) wearing white bikinis, tethered together with bridal tulle at the end of the show. But styles were minimal and body conscious, but for those who can carry them off, the barely-there bikinis and "one pieces" with cutouts and burn-outs, mesmerized the crowd. And, there was a lot of color, not just black, but black with vibrant yellow, brilliant purple, turqoise, white, lime green, brillian blue, and finally, diaphonous scarves with beautiful birds of paradise, that can be used as a coverup or an amazing accent on something else. The models wore delicate, curlicued, multi-colored headdresses that looked like feathers. When they held the scarves out at the sides (some were attached to "sleeves" or fingerless gloves) they really did look like rare birds on a tropical, enchanted, island. I will be addiing lots more photos of the swimsuits on the runway in my photo/text feature (check our FEATURES page at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September, where I will be listing all the Fashion Week Spring 2008 features as they are posted) but for now, one of the photos shows a closeup of one of the lovely scarf/cover-ups featured in the show and how it looked on the runway, plus a few of all the models with Gideon Oberson, the designer, being applauded by all the models at the end of the show. His idea of Spring 2008? Brazilian-Bond Girls--"This collection is about fusion...Fusion of cultures and fusion of colors. The strength and edginess of the legendary Bond Girls mixed together with the festive colors and shapes of Carnival."

Call it what you will, but I call this collection: sensational!

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 9/6/07-Carlos Miele

Carlos Miele's Spring 2008 collection was inspired by the encounter in 1960 between Frank Sinatra and the Brazillian Musician, Tom Jobim (who immortalized songs like "the Girl from Ipanema"). The bossa nova, the sensual music that blends sunsual, Brazillian thythms and jazz, and it's surrounding social and artistc influence, was the true inspiration for this Spring 2008 collection . Just like the music, Miele's collection was sensual, full of movement, and featured Brasil's culture through lace, crochet and "fuxico" or, for an English term, "rosettes." They appeared in every shape and size. On the left, the goldenrod-olored gown literally looks like it is comprised of large, open flowers, drooping every so languidly as the model walks. The fxico appear on the gown on the right, as tiny little buds covering the top.

Miele also used exotic colors, inpsired by tropic fruits. Oddly out of place with the flowing clothes and tropical colors (and lots of champagne and gold) were fabrics featuring photographic prints inspired by the designer's travels. The clothes would appeal to a sophisticated women of any nationality. The black, tropical wool ankle pants worn with a champagne silk bubble blouse with embroideered neckline and metallic, peep-toe pumps, would work for almost every woman of any age.

Makeup was done by Romy Soleimani and the MAC Pro Team. The model's skin was slightly glowing and bronzed, with corall-y lips and not too much emphasis on the eyes. The hair by Rolando Beauchamp and the Bumble and Bumble team featured small, beachy" buns.

There were plenty of "for play" and "for day" looks, but the standouts were the red-carpet-type gowns with lots of appeal both coming and going. All in all, a pretty collection of very pretty clothes that would make any woman feel special.

*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. Please do not take my work! If you want to use text or photo (with proper credit) please ask for permission first at: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Fashion Week Day 2- MISS SIXY runway show

I have always wanted to cover the Miss Sixty runway show, because the fashions are so edgy, fun, and funky, with a true "rock star" vibe. This season, I was able to visit backstage before the show, to cover the MAC Cosmetics makeup team, led by amiable and talented, Polly Osmond.

I asked Polly what the theme was for the show, and she immediately mentioned two obviously rock-star names: Patti Smith and Blondie. The clothes are young, hip, and cook, so the makeup had to be totally "rock star" as well. For starters, this is a look with absolutely no blush, and a clear, shiny lip gloss but no other color on the lips. ALL the color comes from the sexy, lined eye that you can see on the model. For more information on how to do this look, more photos of the makeup, and what products were used, check our FEATURES page at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September, where I will be listing all the Fashion Week Spring 2008 features as they are posted. When asked about what will be hot for Spring 2008, Polly said: "The trends really come from the Paris runway shows such as Prada and Louis Vuitton," but Polly also hinted that she thinks golden colors, more browns, beiges and neturals will be hot for Spring 2008.

And at MAC Cosmetics, where makeup artists are busy covering more than 70 shows this week, a MAC representative told me that the backstage area is a place where MAC Cosmetics can test new products on the models, and the makeup artists can provide valuable feedback on what the final form of the product will be. I'll provide more details in my Miss Sixy feature, later on, but there is a new, loose powder mineral foundation with SPF 15 that makeup artists will use at some of the shows (although not at Miss Sixty) and also in Milan, and Paris. The final formula will ve available in the Spring. MAC is also testing a new, full coverage shine lipstick for Fall 2008, and a beige, pressed eyeshadow with a hint of pearle that will make it's debut as a super-smooth, easy to apply formula.

Neil Moody from Bumble & Bumble was responsible for the hair, which he told me was also inspired by the clothes, and the rock star vibe. He suggested a 70's meets 80's idea (Stevie Nicks mixed with Blondie), with lots of full texture and (the big surprise) a very, very matte look. While stylists have been adding shine and bounce, this look takes products such as Bumble & Bumble's color powders, to matte it down with no shine. The waves were made with a curling iron, wrapped into soft ringlets that were brushed out nearly (but not completely) straight with a Mason Pearson brush.

Here is a photo of one of the dresses I liked, but I couldn't get into the show to see it on the runway despite my best efforts. The best I could do is stand in the lobby, stare at the monitor, and take a photo of it!

Alison Kelly at Nolcha Fashion Week

Attractive, blonde Alison Kelly of Project Runway's Season 3, has moved on since then to do great things. Her line of women’s wear, Dahl, made its debut in Los Angeles during the summer of 2005 and has become a favorite of celebs such as Juliette Lewis, Anne Heche and Hilary Duff . Recently relocated to New York, Kelly presented her Spring 2008 DAHL by collection at Nolcha Fashion Week: NYC on September 6th.

The designs were cute, bright, fun and wearable, with a distinct nod to different eras. This body conscious dress would not look out of place on one of the Supremes in the 1960's (worn with stilettos, of course).
While this outfit reminds me of a 1920's Busby Berkekly tap dancer's outfit.

This super-short, sexy, bold halter would melt the hearts of a 1940's movie star (worn with platform wedges).

Nolcha Fashion Week Opening Night September 5th

Tonight, I attended the opening night of Nolcha Fashion Week Spring 2007, featuring designers Lei Marco Jennifer Nicole Lee Katya Leonovich Samata's Muse. It is a daunting task to run essentially several different fashion shows in one, and Nolcha's organizers did so, beautifully. The shows were held in a unique and lovely location: the Prince George Ballroom on 27th Street in Manhattan.

The guests were offered drinks, and tea infused with vodka (courtesy of Tavalon tea bar) and lots of nice music, plus some vendors showing fashionable wares, but the crowd was getting restless by the time the announcement came to take seats (the show was called for 6pm and didn't begin until 7:30). Still, the large crowd hung in there until the end of the entire event.

The first designer of the evening was Lei Marco, beginning the show with several models wearing gas masks, and these two oddly suited in skirts. Afterwards, most of the models sported a variety of evening gowns made of drape-y, sparkling fabric in black, and a few in brighter colors. The sparkly fabric even showed up in very body conscious bathing suits. There were also some nice, tailored suits for men.

Kata Leonovich presented a number of shiny silk dresses, many in soft colors such as pink, silver, and blue, some adorned with metallic ribbons and light chains.

Another note-able designer was the muses by Samata Angel. I believe this is the designer (with one of her "muses/models") at the end of the show.

It would be difficult to guess a "trend" through these up and coming designers, but the hair was either rod-straight, loose and long, or worn in a semi-updo/chignon which looked quite elegant and perhaps, do-able at home. Jewelry was at a minimum, or very over sized, such as in long, shiny hoop earrings.

Nolcha offers resources for fashion industry professionals to empower themselves and their careers.

Tomorrow's shows include:

3:00pm - Rebecca Turbow Carmelita Couture & accessories by Goka Shoe Designs Bathhouse Swimwear Rimalya Ef-Fect & Quis Es Tu

7:30pm - Birgit Muller M SIAMO by Marisa Minicucci

The 7th through the 10th there are private runway events and seminars. For more information on Nolcha, visit www.nolchafashionweek.com

Fashion Week Spring 2008-Abaete

The sun was shining and there was just a bit of a breeze, when I entered the backstage area to check out David Cruz and his Redken team for the Abaeté show. I got there so early that no one was backstage. This was my first show for Spring 200 8, and I was really excited!

Here is a sight virtually no ones sees, the backstage area with literally no one in it yet!

The backstage area didn't stay empty for long, however. Here is hair stylist David Cruz working on his first model of the show. The concept for the hair, he explained, was inspired by the clothes. Elegant, "old Hollywood," with glamorous waves clipped smoothly to the sides of the head, with the rest falling in soft waves, gently crimped with a curling iron. The look was glamorous, but not too "done" and very youthful and modern *(chic, but with a sense of humor). Girls with short hair had it blown out straight. The styles may look effortless, but it it takes patience, at least one extra set of hands to smooth, and then add texture, lots of brushes, and a bunch of Redken products, to make the look come to life. For more information on how to do this look, and what products were used, check our FEATURES page at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September, where I will be listing all the photo features from Fashion Week with full details!



Ayako, from NARS, was the lead on the makeup team. She brought her sweet little dog who sat patiently while everyone cooed and photographed him! (photo left). Once the models arrived, however, it was all business for Ayako, who said her inspiration for the makeup also came form the designer and her clothes-- elegant and youthful, but with just a bit of an "edge," Abaeté's Spring 2008 designs reminded her of Miami, and art deco. For details on the products used and how you can re-create this look at home, check our FEATURES page at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September.


Creative Nail Design is the nail company of the runways and Angie from Creative Nail told me that the company is doing a staggering 50+ shows this season. That's a lot of manicures! French manicures with a bright, cotton candy pink, custom blended for the show, was the manicure style for this show. For details on the products used and what's going to be hot for nails, for Spring 2008, check our FEATURES page http://www.advicesisters.net/Features/Features.html in mid-September.

I had just a few minutes to check out the clothes, since I couldn't even get standing room by the time I left backstage, but while I was still backstage, viewing the collection while the clothes were still in plastic bags, I saw this black dress with rows of deco crystals. You can't tell from my photo, but the deco-style crystall-ed neckline caught the light and sparkled brilliantly against the black fabric. It was so pretty I couldn't help exclaiming out loud to no one in particular: "I love this dress!" The woman standing next to the dress smiled at me, and said: "I'm the designer." I introduced myself and felt a bit foolish that I didn't recognize her! Many of the clothes in the collection had color-blocked details and I realized that Ayako's assessment of "Miami art deco" was correct! The very pretty and wearable collection featured "ice cream" colors of light turquoise, pink, beige and a hint of black, plus lots of white as background. The lines were simple, tailored, nothing puffy or glittery, except the black dress with the crystals around the neck. The collection wasn't stuffy, but not overly casual. One "resortwear" type outfit features very wide legged, cuffed pants, worn with black flats and white sunglasses--one of the few pants items to be shown.




ALISON


*all text and photos by Alison Blackman Dunham -- copyright © 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® No portion of this content, including illustrations, may be copied or used in any without written permission. Please do not take my work! If you want to use text or photo (with proper credit) please ask for permission first at: advicesisters@advicesisters.net. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Fashion Week-pre-day 1

If you have noticed that this blog looks a little strange, as if the margins are off, you're correct--they are. I added some links to the archives, and in doing so, I somehow threw off the margins, but I DID change the color of the type (maybe not for the better, but I'm not sure how I did that, either, so I don't want to start experimenting when Fashion Week is beginning--you might not be able to read it at all!!!!

I got to Bryant Park about 40 minutes early. Last season, the line already stretched out the door and snaked around the park, and we were all so cold it was ridiculous. Since the press office is tiny, and there are only three computer stations to serve hundreds, maybe thousands, of photographers, videographers, and writers, only a few people can enter at at time, leaving the rest of the line outside to move slowly, very slowly, towards the door. Naturally, I witnessed the first of what I know will be "rude behavior" as a thin young man in a faded, wrinkled black shirt breached the line, "pretending" that his friends had "saved" a spot for him. The "friend" obliged him, so what could I do? Normally this kind of stuff irritates me because it is so petty and obvious, but he sun was shining and it was actually quite nice outside, and I figured I'd be waiting for a while anyway, so I just enjoyed the "cunning" the guy displayed, and chalked it up to an amusing part of the action.

I injured my left foot and my other leg, so standing for any length of time is going to be challenging and painful this week, but even better, I snagged one of about two dozen chairs laid out near the press office. Sitting in the sun for about 40 minutes was definitely better than freezing standing up, last season!

Once inside, I picked up my press badge in less than a minute. Gone are the brightly colored Press & Industry passes with the black lanyard with "Mercedes Benz Fashion Week" on it. This years' pass is helf by a plain, black lanyard. It is a somber grey rectangle with a slightly darker grey line drawing of what looks to be 34th Street down to Bryant Park, from 5th Avenue to Madison Avenue. It has a tiny "Spring 2008 in a discreet rectangle on the side, and instead of Press & Industry, this badge has only a large red "Q" which I soberly reflected might mean "queue up" and wait.

I won't have to wait long...my first backstage call is tomorrow at 10 AM

Musings about the Begining of Spring 2008Fashion Week- "Cool Kids"

It has been a while since I posted anything because I've been working on the What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review column for September http://www.advicesisters.net.whatworkscol3.html/ including six special photo and text features from FALL 2007's Fashion Week (the link to these features is at the top of the What Works column). And, you'll be hearing a lot about Fashion Week in the coming days, as officially begins, tomorrow.

For me, Fashion Week starts when the invitations start appearing in the mail and (increasingly), by Email. The invites are exciting, colorful, and mysterious. Some arrive in oversized envelopes, some have overlays and beautiful for hard to read type and formatting, some are plain and to the point. They come as attchments in my email, and by snail mail in plain white envelopes, bright red ones, orange, yellow, green, and some, multi-colored. Waiting to see which designers (or their public relations firms) will send an invitation (let alone a seat assignment) reminds me of the anxious moments in elementary school, when Valentine's Day meant you would get a lot or many just a few tiny missives on your desk. This, before the decision by wise teachers that no child should be left out, and that every kid deserves to be "appreciated" by every other kid by getting an equal amount of Valentine's. But, back in the day, the "Cool Kids" got lots more valentines. You'd see them piling up on their desks --- big ones, little ones, oddly-shaped ones....not unlike finding the Fashion Week invitations in the mailbox.

If I get a LOT of Fashion Week invitations that doesn't necessarily mean that I'm "cool," but it does mean that someone has made the decision to allow me to see the show, and hopefully realizes the value it has if I can report on it for you. If I dont' get a lot of invites I DO feel less "loved," but this is a business, not a popularity contest. When it comes to Fashion Week, no one forces the designers and their public relations firms to give equal access.

For the fashionistas, buyers, etc. Fashion Week officially starts tomorrow, when the tents open and the shows begin. Today is my first day when I go to pick up my press badge at Bryant Park--and I'll be taking the train to do just that after I finish posting this. No matter how early I get there before the Noon call, there will already be a long, long, long, long line of photographers and other media professionals, to enter the tiny space that is the press office and pick up a plastic badge on a black neck lanyard that says "Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Spring 2008 Collections" and "Press & Industry" This special badge allows the registered media to enter the tents any time, although it does not guarantee entry into any of the shows (see above). The tents on their own are interesting...a melange of professional buyers and media who really need to be there, plus celebrities, curious fashion students, and the usual assortment of people in outrageous outfits, hoping to be featured in The Daily (the "daily magazine of Fashion Week) or some other media outlet. Come tomorrow, the tents will be crowded with people eager to see what will be "new" for Spring 2008.

There is always drama during Fashion Week. Last year, it was the unusually cold weather, forcing the less lucky last February to wait outside on standing room only lines in the "non-tent" venus, just to get a peek at Fall fashions. And, Anna Nicole Smith died, and that was the topic of a lot of conversations, too. No one can tell at this point how the Fashion Week stories will play out, but it'll be fun to experience them as they happen. As with conventions and vacations, and some really good casinos, you get wrapped up in the environment of Fashion Week and it becomes your "reality" for that time.

Stay tuned!