Katherine Kwei — Spring 2011 Preview

As written for iheartheels.com
Though Katherine Kwei merely debuted her unique line of luxury handbags little over four years ago, her Spring/Summer 2011 Collection lends itself to years of quality and impeccable design. During the press preview earlier this month, the designer hosted event attendees at her spacious Soho apartment and office, where she walked us through each intricate piece in the line.

In typical Katherine Kwei form (and much to my delight), her signature "Eternity" knot, a traditional Chinese weave, rings true throughout the new collection, appearing on wallets, totes, satchels and hobo bags. Yet the line remains perfectly on trend with vibrant psychedelic-inspired colors (think teal, burnt orange and sunflower), animal prints and unexpected metallic accents, a detail which was beautifully woven into the body of the sling bag. The sling bag — which was gifted to editors and event attendees — is most certainly an item that I will be sure to incorporate regularly into my Spring 2011 wardrobe, especially seeing as A-list fans of the line include the ever-fashionable Sienna Miller and Gossip Girl star Blake Lively. With most made of the softest lambskin and/or calfskin, the supple pieces are a worthy splurge, with the smaller bags retailing for an average of $500.

Ann Taylor — Spring 2011 Preview

As written for iheartheels.com
"Pleasantly surprised" describes how I felt when I popped into the Gramercy Park Hotel to preview Ann Taylor's Spring 2011 collection earlier this month. I envisioned simple shift dresses, solid blocks of color and career separates, well suited for the hopeful Park Avenue fashionista. But what I got was a slew of classic pieces, each with a unique, eye-catching update. Bold prints on classic-cut shirts and dresses — think floral and leopard — along with rich textures like lace, metallic and fringe, prevail for spring. Styles like a polished seersucker blazer paired with dark denim shorts and a nautical-inspired sweater/shorts combo accessorized with boxy bracelets and a jeweled belt both caught my eye, and they perfectly defined Ann's motto for spring, "...the new casual as a polished way of dressing down." A beautiful burnished medallion necklace gifted to preview attendees was honestly the icing on the Spring 2011 cake. Well done, Ann!

Photos courtesy of nitrolicious.com

NY Fashion Week 2010: L.A.M.B.

As written for iheartheels.com

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week ended on a high note with Gwen Stefani's debut of the Spring 2011 collection for L.A.M.B. As an upbeat remix of Santogold and M.I.A. began to blare through the speakers, the Theater at Lincoln Center felt more like a high-energy party than your average runway show. Gwen's lively designs merely appended the festivities, with a colorful mix of plaid, geometric and African-inspired prints. In her signature style, midriff-baring tops were abundant, along with baggy pants, tailored jackets, draping and cinched waists. Like her ready-to-wear, her accessories were delightfully over the top, with layers of bangles, cross-body bags, platform wedges and the occasional fedora.

Gwen's husband, Gavin Rossdale, bobbed his head from the front row, often taking iPhone photos, with a giddy Kingston on his lap. Other front-row attendees included Mel B., Omarion, Russell Simmons, Debbie Harry and Christian Siriano. The show concluded on a sweet note when Gwen appeared during the finale and none other than little Kingston, blond curls bouncing, rushed to join her down the runway, leaving the rest of us smiling, no doubt.

 Photos courtesy of nymag.com and Getty Images

NY Fashion Week 2010: Naeem Khan

As written for iheartheels.com
Naeem Khan's runway show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week elicited a slew of much-deserved OOHs and AHHs from the crowd with his bohemian-inspired pieces, many of which had me wishing that Spring 2011 weren't all of six months away. Big-haired models clad in multicolored maxi dresses, chiffon gowns and floral-print skirts glided down the runway to Latin tunes by La Lupe and Eddie Palmieri. Thanks to the intricate beading, by-hand embroidery and aptly placed sequins on Khan's lust-worthy silhouettes, it's no wonder that the designer boasts such A-list fans like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Alicia Keys and Carrie Underwood... and received a standing ovation.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

NY Fashion Week 2010: Mackage

As written for iheartheels.com
Walking into the Mackage presentation in The Box at Lincoln Center during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was like walking into a surreal display of smoke and mirrors. Literally. The models posed in groups of four on small platforms swathed in electric black light and dry ice as the rest of us gawked at the raw, ethereal scene as if peering at a hungry caged animal. The gaunt, wet appearance of the models, the up-close-and-personal aspect of the entire arrangement and the sultry new-wave sounds of Kate Bush wafting through the speakers all added to the hypnotic high-fashion experience.

Despite wanting to break a cheeseburger out of my bag for the seemingly thinner-than-your-average models (and growing increasingly self-conscious over the size of my hips), I was enchanted. By all of it. Typically known for their outerwear and leather goods (often worn by Britney Spears, Blake Lively and Hilary Duff), the Montreal-based line raised the bar for Spring 2011 with tailored jackets, high-waist skirts, shift dresses and slim-fit pants, all with edge-defining details like studs, grommets, zippers and skinny wrap belts. The diverse palette ranged from your classic black and white to soft neutrals (camel, taupe and olive) to candy-colored spring hues (melon, peach and canary yellow). Due to the slow-moving nature of the presentation, I was able to visualize the intricate details and see how each piece was constructed and layered to form a most beautiful outfit. I almost liked it better than a runway show. Almost.

Photos by Tina Smithers

NY Fashion Week 2010: Toni Francesc

As written for iheartheels.com
After the spectacular Alice + Olivia party, I headed over to Toni Francesc's "Urban Forest" Spring/Summer 2011 runway show. As I waited for the show to begin from my perch in the second row behind recording artist Jeannie Ortega and actor Eric West, I spotted Kelly Cutrone (Francesc is a People's Revolution client) directing her minions, hard at work. Then the lights dimmed, and out glided model after model, sporting vivid hues of chartreuse, mango and steel blue in an array of free-flowing fabrics. Inspired by natural landscapes and elements, Francesc brought eco-friendly materials and embellishments into his enchanting collection with chunky wooden heels and accessories, as well as beautifully sculptured pieces that made the line a true stand-out during Fashion Week.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images; Video by Tina Smithers

Chic Shoes You Don't Have To "Spring" For

As written for iheartheels.com
Shortly before Fashion Week, I represented I Heart Heels at a store opening for Manhattan's first Spring Shoes boutique, a slightly less expensive division of Aldo Shoes. While the prices range anywhere from $39 to $99, the quality and craftsmanship is definitely there. As an advocate of spending a bit more for classic items and less for trendier pieces, I found Spring Shoes to be extremely on trend, with a wide range of footwear — patent pumps, lace-up oxfords, studded ankle boots and yes, even some ruby slippers! (Some of my favorites above; I am so getting the oxfords for fall.) The brand also boasts an offering of accessories including handbags, clutches, jewelry and legwear.

NY Fashion Week 2010: Alice + Olivia

As written for iheartheels.com
Always a Fashion Week favorite, Alice + Olivia's Spring 2011 presentation was by far the most stunning spectacle of the week-long event, in my little opinion. Decor was sparse in the spacious warehouse-like venue of NYC's Cedar Lake, but the energy knew no bounds. Only the essentials were present — row upon row of brightly colored mixed drinks, a glittering platform filled with paparazzi near the red carpet (assembled for only the most influential of arrivals — Nicky Hilton, Denise Richards, Mad Men's Elizabeth Moss, among others) and a DJ booth where one of my personal favorites was spinning tunes, Gabe Saporta of Cobra Starship.

Oh. And one minor detail. Toward the back of the venue was a stage that  resembled some sort of retro-style burlesque parlor. I fell in love  with what I saw. Model after model wearing quirky-glam confections of sparkles, lace, ruffles and feathers, mixed with the brightest of colors and boldest of prints. Picture last year's bohemian-hippie obsession on crack with a sprinkle of ultra-feminine details. Carrie Bradshaw but way cooler. Handkerchief hems, high waists and big, oversized accessories. Oh. My.

NY Fashion Week 2010: Perry Ellis

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com 
Despite a sudden torrential downpour (which caused me to add yet another shitty $5 street umbrella to my growing collection) and a new Upper West Side location, the fifth day of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was abuzz with excitement, free drinks, outrageous outfits and long lines. I was thrilled when Julie asked me to cover a few of the Spring 2011 shows for iheartheels.com, as I had a blast at the tents last February. The energy (and people-watching!) that you experience at Fashion Week is indescribable... not to mention the clothes.

Menswear line Perry Ellis did not disappoint earlier tonight with a series of classic, preppy pieces predominantly consisting of some combination of tailored trousers, linen shorts, v-neck sweaters, polo shirts and the occasional cardigan or blazer. Under the design direction of John Crocco, the new S/S 2011 collection exudes a sort of timeless appeal as one might expect, but the styles remain refreshingly on trend with bright pops of coral, rose, lime and teal, along with a sprinkling of aptly placed prints — think plaid, argyle, gingham and stripes.

The male models were easy on the eyes, as well, not to mention a few of the front-row guests. A-list attendees included actor Chris Riggi (you might know him as Rufus and Lily's love child from Season 3 of Gossip Girl) and Detroit Pistons player Ben Gordon.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images; Video by Tina Smithers

If I Didn't Have To Pay NYC Rent...

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com
I would be adorned in jewels all the time. Recently stopped by the Yasmin & Jazmin press preview, and I must say... this jewelry is to die for! Stunning. Gorgeous. The items are a little pricey ($250-$900), but they're well worth the investment if you want a statement piece of jewelry that will last until eternity. I fell head-over-iheartheels in love with the Black Onyx Square Pendant, as well as the Citrine Circle Ring. The line has a huge celebrity cult following, boasting fans such as Lindsay Lohan (Tethered Cuff, above), Nicole Scherzinger (Stone Tip Cuff, above) and Lo Bosworth from The Hills (Black Drop Earrings, above). Ex-couple Audrina Patridge and Ryan Cabrera were also spotted sporting matching Unisex Tag Necklaces from the line... you know, back when they were trying to be an item.

Holiday 2010 Fashion Preview

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com
Is it that time already?! The only thing about working in fashion, or in publishing, or I guess working in any industry other than burger-slinging at McDonald's (be jealous — I was once the Mickey D's Employee of the Month, complete with engraved plaque), is the fact that you can rarely live in the moment. You're always looking ahead at least three months.

I recently attended the Holiday 2010 Preview for Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy, which brought back memories of working at Old Navy during the holiday season of 1998. I was a greeter/bag passer-outer, and the only thing I recall is that the cheesy '70s-inspired holiday tunes got old real fast. The painful recollection quickly dissipated when I laid eyes on the season's upcoming styles, set to hit stores this October.

Banana Republic doesn't disappoint, with chunky jeweled accessories and plenty of sparkle on everything from sequined clutches to peep-toe pumps, perfect for that holiday party. In terms of ready-to-wear, the slightly pricier Gap, Inc. brand was all about the cardigan — cable-knit, oversized, boyfriend, fur-trimmed, you name it — all available in muted, season-appropriate hues.

If You Only Visit One Store In New York...

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com
It was March of 2002. I was living on a college girl's budget and had come to New York for the first time ever. My much more fashion-savvy friends immediately started raving about this elusive H&M and demanded to go. I didn't understand. Until I saw for myself. I was smitten. Fabulous clothes! Shoes! Accessories! More clothes! I could spend $100 and walk out with five outfits. To this day, I don't know what it stands for (Hugs&Mustaches? Hearts&Milkshakes?), but I remain ever loyal. So of course when my friend Julie at iheartheels.com asked me to cover H&M's Fashion Against Aids event last month, I jumped at the chance. Side note: I interviewed at Seventeen during that first H&M-filled visit to New York. The following summer, Julie and I ended up interning together at the iconic teen magazine. We discovered we were sorority sisters *cue secret handshake*, and a friendship was instantly born. Moving on...

New York's Fifth Avenue H&M store was packed to the gills with fashion lovers and shoppers at the May 19 event, which boasted a 20% discount on everything (squeal!), appetizers, drinks, live music, you name it. Basically, I shopped. A lot. And I also admired their new Fashion Against Aids collection — 25% of every single sale made from this collection will be donated to various HIV/AIDS prevention projects. That's a hell of a lot of money... especially seeing as the collection is gorgeous and is bound to sell out. Some of my favorite pieces from the FAA collection:

I fell head-over-heels in love with that angelic white ruffled maxi dress after seeing it on one of the models. When I tried it on, it didn't look quite right on me, and I almost cried. (Sadly when I left Kansas for NYC over six years ago, my hips came along for the ride.) Luckily, I was able to find a few pieces worthy of my Beyoncé-sized booty. $200 worth to be exact. Sigh. It's not really spending frivolously when it goes to a good cause, right? xx

That Girl (You Know The One)

So my coworker/friend Nicole is, for me, That Girl. You know the one — she's charismatic and always looks immaculate, even while pregnant and wearing 4-inch heels. When getting dressed in the morning, sometimes I think to myself, what would Nicole pair with this? Would she opt for the beaded necklace? Would she belt this cardigan? This is usually followed by me saying fuckit, picking up the same Get Up Kids hoodie off the floor and bouncing off to work in my Converse. Said Nicole has also bled into my eating habits. Afterall, it was her who first told me about that damn Blueprint Cleanse. She is the one who said that berries are better for you than bananas, thus forcing me to buy a bag of frozen berries that I inevitably threw out because they tasted like tart, tangy mush.

For fear of sounding creepy, let the record state that I am easily influenced in general, doesn't matter who you are. Whether I'm taking business advice from Jami, boy advice from Jessi, permission to eat croutons for dinner from Meagan or love-handle reassurance from Crista. While the aforementioned ladies make up some of my best friends, Nicole will forever be That Girl for me. The one who makes wearing heels look effortless, who has the willpower to only eat half an office brownie (not five), who at first glance appears to be the epitome of one of those all-together New York "fashionistas" — the intimidating kind — that I used to see in magazines and on TV while growing up in Kansas City. Yet one might be surprised to find that her humor (she was the one who loudly pointed out the peculiar-shaped sweet potato in the office minifridge) and inner beauty very much outshine her chunky cuff bracelets that I covet on a daily basis.

For instance, her 365 Heartbeats Project has me looking at life just a little bit differently. She spent the better part of an evening photographing me in the rain on a deserted New York street (see above) for this project. As awkward as this was for me... with N's help, I was able to laugh at myself. And ironically, it was a quick shot taken the next morning (at left) that she ended up posting — I like to think that it captures a part of my soul that is very genuine. That je-ne-sais-quoi that is inside of me and what my dad refers to when he tells me to "stay golden."

My point is this: Oh. I don't really have one. I told her that I would post about her cute new weekly fashion blog on AOL's Lemondrop.com (read it — so you, too, can be That Girl... or at least look like one) which got me to thinking, Is there anything that this chick can't do? ♥

Surfing In New York?

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com 
When you're a New York fashionista, anything goes — even when it's California-style surf wear. I had the privilege of attending the Cynthia Rowley for Roxy launch party last week at Barney's CO-OP, on behalf of friend and fashion blogger Julie at I Heart Heels. Rowley's spring 2010 line for the popular surf brand fuses California chic with New York couture in the form of everything from wetsuits and swimwear to pencil skirts and ballet flats. The stylish Soho soirée was crawling with magazine editors and fashion's elite, including designer Cynthia Rowley in the flesh. Rowley arrived at the bash in style, wearing a few of her own designs — her Kaleidoscope Tank ($56, roxy.com) and her Threadbare Sequined Tank ($325, cynthiarowley.com).

Photos courtesy of PMc

NY Fashion Week 2010: Monique Lhuillier

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com 
Having outfitted nearly everyone who’s anyone from Bilson to Barrymore, Monique Lhuillier continues to dazzle with red carpet-worthy couture. Her Fall 2010 collection combined the tough, militant flair of the ancient Chinese warrior with a contrasting hint of soft, feminine elegance. As one would expect, the line was largely composed of striking evening gowns — touches of tulle and chiffon embellished with embroidery and aptly placed hardware. I literally gasped when I laid eyes on this gorgeous number:

 

With hair wrapped in buns, minimal eye makeup and ruby red lips, the runway models took on a stoic, fierce presence — fitting amongst the strong silhouettes and high necklines. Shades of crimson, gold and navy were also dominant amid the party dresses and dragon-print jacquards.

Accessorized with chunky cocktail rings and textured lace tights, the latest Monique Lhuillier collection was a massive hit; just ask actresses Melissa George and Sophia Bush, who were in attendance. “[Monique’s] clothes are so beautiful,” Sophia says to celebrity gossip blogger Just Jared. “They’re such a throwback to really classic, tailored, feminine design. She can really do anything. It’s just so elegant.”

NY Fashion Week 2010: Lia Sophia

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com

The latest installment of Lia Sophia’s Red Carpet Collection launched late last month, and I’ve been dying to check it out. Luckily, I had an hour to kill in between shows, so I stopped into the nearby Alice + Olivia boutique where the Lia Sophia gifting suite was set up. Aptly called the Lanaya Collection, their newest line of luxe, high-end jewelry is inspired by the natural beauty and exotic elements of Thailand. Celebrity followers of the collection include Paris Hilton, Stephanie Pratt and Tinsley Mortimer. Comprised of matte metals and multitudes of chains, unconventionally paired with geometric jewels and colored pearls, these chunky pieces are major standouts. I couldn’t resist picking up this ultra-long Fringe Chain Necklace ($700, liasophia.com), complete with violet pearls! It was love at first sight.

I also picked up this stunning Studded Pyramid Stretch Bracelet ($400, liasophia.com) for J. The coolest thing about these cuff bracelets? The edges have ridges, so you can stack a couple of them for the ultimate statement accessory.

Hope you love it, Jules! The bottom line? This collection commands attention, so it is advisable to keep the rest of your look fairly simple. I can definitely see rocking these bold baubles with a deep-v tee and destroyed jeans for a chic, casual look. Or for something a little dressier, pair a piece or two with a sleek, monochromatic dress.

Photos courtesy of liasophia.com/Tina Smithers

NY Fashion Week 2010: Ecco Domani

As written for fashion blog iheartheels.com
The Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation is known for bringing emerging fashion designers to the forefront, having helped launch the careers of wildly successful designers Zac Posen and Alexander Wang. This year, the EDFF donated monetary grants to seven up-and-coming driving forces in fashion: The Blonds, Prova, Prabal Gurung, Siki Im, Altuzarra, Salvor and Organic. Specializing in everything from women’s ready-to-wear to accessories to menswear, Monday night’s show was hosted by fashion guru Robert Verdi, who gave us a first look at the next big names in the industry. Major style standouts included eco-friendly tweed jackets by Organic, printed silk scarves by Prova (Michelle Obama is a fan!) and a python corset by The Blonds, reminiscent of something one might find in Lady Gaga’s closet. Front row attendees included actresses AnnaLynne McCord, Kelly Rutherford, Molly Sims, Kate Walsh, Adrienne Bailon and socialite Tinsley Mortimer.

 Photos courtesy of coutorture.com/Tina Smithers