Pierre Cardin 60 Years of Innovation: The Book

ASSOULINE Announces the Release of PIERRE CARDIN: 60 YEARS OF INNOVATION By Jean-Pascal Hesse.

“Geometric motifs, asymmetry, oversized buttons and collars, hooped dresses, vinyl inserts-Cardin is an original in every sense of the word.”

ASSOULINE - Pierre Cardin: 60 Years of Innovation

ASSOULINE is delighted to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the Masion Cardin, with the publication of a commemorative retrospective of the work of its founder, fashion designer Pierre Cardin.

Born in 1922 in San Biagio di Callalta, near Venice, Pierre Cardin immigrated to Paris in 1924. After working briefly with Elsa Schiaparelli, Cardin joined Dior in 1946 and opened his own couture house in 1950. He was a pioneer from the start, creating a design-based, architectural fashion with a futurist sensibility. Cardin also had an avant-garde understanding of fashion’s relationship to new audiences, presenting his collections to large crowds. He was the first to demonstrate that fashion can be both a creative process and a business-and that one man can excel as both a businessman and an artist.

This volume is a tribute to this extraordinarily innovative and iconoclastic designer, taking a primarily visual perspective, highlighting Pierre Cardin’s contributions to the world of couture, fashion, and perfume, reflecting his spirit and energy as well as the brand’s international presence.

$120.00, Spring 2010, hardcover/jacket, 300 pages, 11 2/5 x 14 2/5″, 29 x 36.8 cm, 200 illustrations, ISBN: 9782759404247

Available at: assouline.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jean-Pascal Hesse, who holds a degree in history, has been director of communications at the Cardin fashion house for close to 15 years.

ABOUT ASSOULINE:
Renowned for their highly original graphic concept, ASSOULINE books and luxury gift items are works of art that capture culture and bring it to life. The spirit and ‘savoir faire’ of the company have contributed to the creation of a unique and eclectic, chic and elegant brand that is immediately identifiable. ASSOULINE publications have been translated into more than ten languages and are available in the most exclusive retail destinations worldwide. ASSOULINE’s Paris boutique opened in 2005, ASSOULINE at The Plaza Hotel, in New York City opened its doors in 2008, ASSOULINE West Hollywood and ASSOULINE Las Vegas both opened in December 2009.

Zac Posen To Launch Collection For Target

Zac Posen to launch affordable limited-edition collection for Target.

Target announces Zac Posen as the next limited-edition designer for GO International®, an innovative program designed to offer guests reasonably-priced fashion created by world-renowned designers. Zac Posen will launch his exclusive collection available at most Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com. The women’s fashion collection will launch on April 25, 2010, and be available through May 30, 2010.

Hilary Rhoda and fashion designer, Jason Wu, Attend the Premiere of Grey Gardens in NYC

All-American model and Estee Lauder face, Hilary Rhoda, and top American fashion designer, Jason Wu, attended HBO films presents Grey Gardens New York Premiere, at Ziegfeld Theater New York City, Thursday, April 14th, 2009.

The Look: Hilary Rhoda is wearing: Top, Skirt and Belt: Jason Wu. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Earrings: Lunessa.

Kelly Nishimoto

Kelly Nishimoto is a fashion designer based in Los Angeles.  When Nishimoto moved to Los Angeles, she saw an opportunity to shift the industry’s focus from shabby-chic to structured, and began making her line of Kelly Nishimoto Corsets.  Quickly becoming a favorite of celebrities, Nishimoto’s corsets have sculpted the waistlines of Demi Moore, Gwen Stefani, Anastasia, Natasha Henstridge, Jenna Jameson, and yes, even Dave Navarro.
 
In this interview Kelly Nishimoto talks to Marta Walsh about her fascination with fashion design which began at age 11, the Kelly Nishimoto collection design philosophy, where she draws her inspirations, who does she see wear Kelly Nishimoto, and why she chose Sophie Simmons, Russell Simmons’ daughter, to walk down the runway wearing one of her garments during LA Fashion Week.

 

When did your fascination with fashion design begin?
I started exploring a sewing machine at age 11…I didn’t quite know how to sew clothes yet…but I was pretty darn good at pillows and headbands! ?
Around 13…I started getting super creative & obsessed…I made a wedding gown out of trash bags & tape…the rest is history…

How would you describe the Kelly Nishimoto collection?
COMFORTABLE!!!! Elegant, Feminine, & Desired!
I really focus on comfort and longevity! It’s important to feel cozy in what you wear…and if it’s timeless…even better! Some of my key pieces…attract stalkers! Just kidding…but I do hear tons of stories of my clients being followed just so the person could find out where to purchase their outfit…

Where do you draw the inspiration for the style and color of your designs?
Oh wow…so many places…my culture, whatever I see fashion lacking…I try to provide…a lot of things, I make up in my crazy little brain…and go with it…no matter what the trend forecasts say…

"I chose Sophie because she’s young & fresh…and to me…she represents what young Hollywood should be! Elegant, articulate, respectful…She was all around amazing! Not to mention gorgeous! She fit right in…no one could distinguish her from the other models."

What would be one of your most memorable garments you’ve ever designed?
Definitely the “Goddess Dress” & the “Cute Booty” Pants…
Sorry…you asked for 1…but these 2 are equal! They are both must haves for every girl! They are the most requested items…and I will make them every season…for the rest of my days!

Who do you see wearing Kelly Nishimoto?
Everyone! No joke…I sell to 14 year old girls…moms, actresses, musicians, accountants…and currently my oldest client is 63…They all look HOT in the pieces…

Sophie Simmons, Gene Simmons’ daughter, walked down the runway during LA Fashion Week for Kelly Nishomoto. Which garment from the Kelly Nishimoto collection did Sophie Simmons wear and why have you chosen her for the show?
She wore a coat called “The Raven” Jacket…a Black satin floor length jacket with pleating at the neck and sleeves with fuchsia silk lining…and a simple black beaded dress, “Lady Looker” underneath…

I chose Sophie because she’s young & fresh…and to me…she represents what young Hollywood should be! Elegant, articulate, respectful…She was all around amazing! Not to mention gorgeous! She fit right in…no one could distinguish her from the other models…

Can you tell us more about the Kelly Nishimoto collection for this season, and for the upcoming season?
I’m waiting on the right situation to continue the Kelly Nishimoto Black collection…it is sooooo special…and I want to make sure the customer gets exactly what comes down the runway…so right now, I am really focusing on Kelly Nishimoto “Lounge Collection” and including “Bedroom Booty” PJ’s & “Baby Booty”…so lil’ baby girl can where what mommy is wearing! This collection is comprised of the BEST casual pieces…Every piece is comfy, easily transitions from day to night…and just makes you want to twirl!

Where can we shop for Kelly Nishimoto?
Most specialty Boutiques…Bendels in New York…www.kellynishimoto.com & starting in May…Equinox!

Who are some of your favorite designers of all time?
Yves St. Laurent & Balenciaga! That was easy….

How would you describe your own style?
Cool…relaxed…comfy…accessible…with a little something funky…

What’s next for Kelly Nishimoto?
I’m taking over the casual market with the “Cute Booty” Pants…Then I will expand into everything! Starting with Accessories, shoes, housewares…doggie clothing (Smelly Fishimoto)…and whatever else I can get my hands on…
That’s the 10 year plan…anyways.

It was a pleasure to interview Kelly you can check out her sensational clothes at her official websites: www.kellynishimoto.com and www.mycutebooty.com

British Celebrity Designer Matthew Williamson to Design for H&M

British celebrity designer Matthew Williamson is teaming up with Swedish retailer H&M to do a capsule collection.

“I love the fact that H&M have created a new phenomenon in fashion through the pioneering concept of collaborating with high-end designers to create one-off limited edition capsule collections. I am thrilled that my creations for H&M will be accessible to and hopefully enjoyed by so many people around the world” Williamson said.

A favorite of stars like Rihanna, Thandie Newton, Mischa Barton, Lindsay Lohan and more, Williamson will bring his bright prints to H&M by April 23rd. A second collection, to be released in mid-May, will include both men’s and women’s clothing.

A few weeks ago, H&M had joint collaboration with Japan’s Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons.

via: Just Jared.

Fashion Designer Vera Wang Talks About Look Her New Perfume- Video Clip

Fashion designer Vera Wang has recently launched a new perfume to add to her repertoire of beautiful fragrances: Look.

Here is a video clip of Vera Wang talking about the inspiration and meaning behind her new fragrance, Look.

Lana Fuchs

Lana Fuchs is a Russian born fashion designer and the designer of Lana Fuchs Couture, the lifestyle brand Billionaire Mafia and the founder of Emerald Dream foundations, a charitable non-profit  organization. In this interview, Lana Fuchs chats with Marta Walsh about her trip to India and how it drove her to finally pursue her dream to become a fashion designer, her inspiration behind the Lana Fuchs Couture Spring/Summer 2009 Collection “Rhapsody In Boom” presented at LA Fashion Week, her dreams to dress Middle America and help women to feel good about themselves, how she would love to dress Cindy McCain, and her fascination with legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel.

When did you fascination with fashion begin?
My fascination with fashion began probably when I was eight years old, when I moved to the US with my parents from Russia. We settled in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn New York. We moved into a terrible studio apartment. It was the classic immigrant story, we all have them. I was an overweight child and didn’t speak English which led to a somewhat hard time in school. My uncle bought me a Barbie Doll for my ninth birthday. My life has changed. I began living my life vicariously through Barbie. I felt that Barbie’s clothes were not good enough for her. I use to cut my mom’s curtains and her vinyl table cloths and turn them into pretty clothes which I sewed by hand.  This is when I decided that when I grow up I want to be in fashion.  But when I grew up I wasn’t allowed to go to school to study fashion because it wasn’t considered a real education by my parents. They wanted me to be stable and have a steady profession.  I ended doing everything they wanted me to do. To make long story short, when I turned 33 I went on a trip to India for a month. I was at a good place financially and with my family but I didn’t feel I was fulfilled. When I came back from India I knew what I had to do. I quit everything and I told my family I was planning to do what I love, which is fashion. I never wanted to live with the notion’ I should have could have.’ I never looked back!What was the first garment you have ever designed as the Lana Fuchs Couture?
I first began making clothes for myself. Everywhere I went people used to compliment me for what I wore and asked where they can buy it. I ended up making one of a kind gowns and various outfits for others.  I have pictures of every garment I have ever designed. The first gown I designed was a beautiful ball gown in black and burgundy for a friend of mine. We were going to the same party in Europe through an organization called YPO, which my husband and I belong to.  It is a group of about 11,000 or 12,000 members worldwide. As a member of YPO we travel to various countries with educational programs during the day, and amazing and fabulous parties and formal balls at night. The fist dress I’ve designed was for a YPO woman.

“I would like to dress Middle America. There is a great need for affordable yet nice clothes. With just a few great pieces of clothes women everywhere can feel so much better about themselves.”

How would you describe the Lana Fuchs fashion line?
The Lana Fuchs fashion line is timely and timeless for the woman who has arrived.

Where do you draw the inspiration from for your designs?
I love to travel and I travel a lot. I have a fascination for exploring new courtiers and new cultures. Every time I leave a country I take something from it. What I have learned is that there are different standards for beauty in every single country.  But the most amazing thing I’ve discovered is that one common denominator for all these women around the world is their femininity. This is why many of the Lana Fuchs dresses are very feminine. For example my latest collection for spring 2009 “The Rhapsody in Bloom” was inspired by the sites of Giverny France from the gardens of Monet mixed with colors of Indian women working in the field. I observe and study how women are and what they wear to different occasions all around the world. Every woman is an inspiration to me.

 

Who do you see wearing the Lana Fuchs clothes?
The Lana Fuchs fashion line is for women from age 20 to 60 who are interested in wearing classic and elegant clothes as opposed to following trends. These are women who have developed their own sense of style, and know what they like and what looks best on them. She could be a woman from all walks of life: a homemaker, an attorney, or a doctor. In Hollywood, I would love to see Sophia Loren, Angelina Jolie, and Nicole Kidman wearing the Lana Fuchs Couture. I also would have loved to see Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in one of my dresses. And, Cindy McCain would be perfect. Cindy is so classy and elegant, always well put together.

What would be your biggest achievement as a fashion designer?
I would like to dress Middle America. There is a great need for affordable yet nice clothes. With just a few great pieces of clothes women everywhere can feel so much better about themselves. That confidence in women comes across and it is so evident.

Who are some of your favorite fashion designers?
My personal favorite fashion designer is Coco Chanel, I always used to look up to her even as a child. Coco Chanel has managed to achieve international recognition through so much adversity and obstacles. She left an important mark in the world which doesn’t end in just fashion. Coco taught women how to be independent and to think outside the box. She also taught women around the world to wear clothes that are comfortable and not fit into what is expected of them to wear.  I also like Armani, Valentino, Yves Saint Laurent, and Christian Dior.

How would you describe your own personal style?
I describe my personal style as timely and timeless pieces with an attitude.

What’s next for Lana Fuchs?
I would like my clothes to be available at department stores and specialty boutiques. And, hopefully next season I would like to show my collection in New York Fashion Week.

It was a pleasure to interview Lana you can find out more about her fashion line at her official website: www.lanafuchs.com/ and her other sites: Billionaire Mafia and Emerald Dream Foundation

Kao Pao Shu by Naida Begeta Opens Flagship Store in Los Angeles

From Bosnia to Milan to Los Angeles Kao Pao Shu by Naida Begeta opens flagship store in Los Angeles, California. The address: 7227 Beverly Boulevard, LA, CA 90036.

Hollywood, CA Monday, July 7th, 2008: Designer, Naida Begetaquickly made a name for herself and her Kao Pao Shu collection in her native country of Bosnia. With her innovative designs, intricate craftsmanship and use of stripes and ribbons, it was not long before word of her talent and designs reached Milan and Tokyo and finally to LA.

Kao Pao Shu Opens Flagship Store

For Naida, the process of design is not only about dressing ones body in curve hugging clothes that make the wearer feel sexy and comfortable, it is about the exploration of fabric and textures. Naida redefines the use of ribbon by sewing together yards of ribbon, which ultimately become the fabric for her handmade creations.

Continue reading Kao Pao Shu by Naida Begeta Opens Flagship Store in Los Angeles

Nick Verreos

Style Interviews is excited to introduce to you Nick Verreos, Project Runway’s Season 2 alum and designer of NIKOLAKI fashion line. In this interview Nick talks about life after Project Runway, his partnership with David Paul creating NIKOLAKI fashions, his designing style, and his plans for the future.

When did your fascination with fashion design begin?
When I was very young, my family and I traveled because my dad was a Diplomat so I became fascinated with the uniforms of the flight attendant (remember it was the 70’s and they were cuter then). Then, in my early teens, I found myself drawn to looking at magazines such as Vogue, as opposed to looking at the Sports section of the newspaper. I would then be inspired and draw collections in my notebooks that my mom had bought me.

How did your involvement with Bravo’s Project Runway Season Two come about?
I watched season one of the show and loved it, of course. Then I began receiving emails and messages from friends in the industry telling me that the Season Two casting was taking place and that I would be perfect for it. As an established Southern California designer who had shown at LA Fashion Week, been in magazines already and was also an Instructor of Fashion Design, I was a bit apprehensive about doing it. I felt both that I was “above that” and at the same time, afraid that I would be rejected from that first round of casting and not even make the cut. Thank God I wasn’t. Looking back, I can’t believe I ever had those reservations or feelings.

How would you describe your experience on Project Runway?
Two words: Fashion Olympics! It was an incredible experience throughout. Some weird “fashion” adrenaline kicked in, that I never knew I had, and I was able to sustain the surreal work and living environment that the show asks of its designers/contestants. I loved being at Parsons and the thought of creating work that would then be seen my millions of people, including my friends and family. Up to then, I was growing disillusioned with the fashion industry as a whole and how much I had struggled and nothing seemed to be happening. The show gave me that bit of added battery life that has changed my outlook on life and work.

What projects have you been working on since the show?
Apart from continuing to design my line, NIKOLAKI, last year, I became part of the “Glam Squad” of fashion and beauty experts for MSN’s “Style Studio” which I am extremely proud of. I also became the Official Spokesperson for the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM, the school I teach at. Besides this, I have been making appearances as a fashion expert/commentator on red carpet post-awards shows on TV Guide Channel as well as E!. Did I mention I barely sleep anymore?

“Nikolaki is for a confident, sexy, ultra feminine woman. I would love to have women as diverse as Charlize Theron, Panelope Cruz, Queen Rania of Jordan, and Kylie Minogue wear NIKOLAKI. A boy can dream, right?”

NIKOLAKI is a partnership between you and David Paul. How did this business relationship evolve and how do you make it work?
I began NIKOLAKI (which means “Little Nick” in Greek) in 2001, soon after Henri Bendel ordered my first dress line. I asked my partner, David Paul, if he wanted to be my design and business partner, because I could not do this alone. It’s like “Donny and Marie”—He’s a “little bit Country” and I’m a “little bit Rock & Roll” and when we design it is the perfect “ying” and “yang” situation. He tames me and makes all my drawings/ideas more palatable for an elegant, sexy every-day woman, as opposed to the South American Diva Princess (my “imaginary muse”) whom I design for.

Who do you see wearing NIKOLAKI?
Nikolaki is for a confident, sexy, ultra feminine woman. I would love to have women as diverse as Charlize Theron, Panelope Cruz, Queen Rania of Jordan, and Kylie Minogue wear NIKOLAKI. A boy can dream, right?

Can you tell us about the NIKOLAKI collection for this season?
For Spring ’08, I continued to take advantage of the “Grecian Goddess” theme that was in the air. The theme of my collection was “Cleopatra in Rome 2008” and what she would bring with her to meet her Marc Anthony. We did a group of sinuous white silk jersey draped gowns and then added some dresses in bold graphic floral prints, as well as bright turquoise and fuchsia colors.

Can you tell us about the NIKOLAKI collection for this season?
For Spring ’08, I continued to take advantage of the “Grecian Goddess” theme that was in the air. The theme of my collection was “Cleopatra in Rome 2008” and what she would bring with her to meet her Marc Anthony. We did a group of sinuous white silk jersey draped gowns and then added some dresses in bold graphic floral prints, as well as bright turquoise and fuchsia colors.

Where can we shop for NIKOLAKI fashions?
Before Project Runway, our line was available in over 100 stores, from Henri Bendel to Nordstrom, to high-end boutiques such as Fred Segal, Diavolina and EMc2 in Manhattan. I have scaled down because of my busy schedule and last year, we began selling “By Special Order” through our website, www.nikolakidesign.com. This has actually worked out really well. In the future, we hope to have a “web store”, where women can purchase NIKOLAKI tops and dresses online. The gowns will still only be available by appointment only.

Which celebrities have you designed for and how was it like collaborating with them?
I was very thrilled when last month, Academy Award-winning actress (and “Dancing With The Stars” contestant) Marlee Matlin wore my gown to the Oscars. That was a coup for us. Her stylist contacted us and actually picked a gown from the collection and the next thing we knew, we were watching her, in the gown, being interviewed by Regis Philbin at the Live Pre-Oscars Show. Also, we designed a custom gown for “Desperate Housewives” actress Brenda Strong for the ’06 SAG Awards, which subsequently made the “Best Dresses of ‘06” lists of several publications. This collaboration began with her publicist contacting us. We then worked together on everything from the style to the color and fabrication. It all depends on the client. Other actresses who have worn NIKOLAKI in the past have included Patricia Arquette, Eva Longoria, Melora Hardin of NBC’s “The Office” and TV presenters Nancy O’Dell and Debbie Matenopoulos.

How would you define your designing style?
My designing style is mixing confidence, elegance and sexiness. She’s the European socialite’s daughter; she’s the Kuwaiti Princess, or the woman from Kansas who is going to a Charity Black Tie event. When I design I pretend every girl has their own “red carpet’ moment. Men want her and women are jealous at how amazing she looks. My design philosophy involves fusing my Mediterranean heritage with Roman sculpture-like draping, sensuous lines with hints of historical past fashion and a look into the future.

Where do you draw the inspiration for the style and color of your designs?
Art, architecture, visiting museums (the Metropolitan in NY and Queen Sofia in Madrid are my favorites). Also, I love looking at costume and history of fashion books as well as going to the FIDM Library and scouring 1930’s and 1940’s Vogue’s and Bazaar’s for inspiration.

What does it take to succeed as a fashion designer?
Several things are important, including a passionate love for fashion of course, savvy business sense, recognition of “branding yourself” and perhaps more importantly, an investor from Dubai wouldn’t hurt, to throw you lots and lots of money for those first ten years until you finally turn a profit!

How would you describe your own style?
Quirky Elegant Dandy. In the past, I was very much into more casual Abercrombie and American Eagle clothes (the Southern Californian in me) but not too long ago, I had an epiphany and realized that I wasn’t 22 any more. I now wear mainly dress shirts, ties, handkerchiefs, vests and blazers. It’s Eurotrash with a touch of Savile Row tailoring perhaps—but from H & M and Zara!!!

What’s next for Nick Verreos?
I will continue designing my line and look forward to my MSN Style Studio shoots which I really love doing and hopefully helping more women achieve their “inner Diva” with my style advice. I will continue teaching and doing more fashion expert TV appearances. I think the world is ready for a bearded Greek-Venezuelan version of Carson Kressley and Tim Gunn, don’t you? (don’t answer that!)

It was such a pleasure to interview Nick you can discover all about his NIKOLAKI line at www.nikolakidesign.com