The Future of Fashion hosted by Robert Verdi’s Luxe Laboratory: the ultimate New York Fashion Week retreat
February 25, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · 1 Comment
Believe it or not, fashion week can be uber-stressful so any and all opportunities to take relaxing breaks are very much-welcomed. So I was thrilled to be invited to the exclusive New York Fashion Week retreat: The Future of Fashion hosted by Robert Verdi’s Luxe Laboratory. Verdi organizes these fashion Week retreats with a specially curated group of partner brands in fashion, beauty and lifestylen to offer ‘exclusive services, little indulgences and innovative ideas that are shaping the future of fashion & the way we live’.
The Luxe Laboratory is set up in an intimate, studio-style setting, and if I could live in the cozy space, I absolutely would! I visited the lounge on Valentine’s Day, and upon entering, was greeted with a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere of food, drink, fashion, beauty, artwork (from Jen Bekman gallery), and fellow fashion bloggers milling about. I was served yummy Absolut Berri Açai champagne cocktails (sadly I just missed the healthy brunch from BluePrint Cleanse!) and gnoshed on my favorite kettle corn popcorn from Popcorn Indiana. On one end of the Luxe Laboratory was a Rock & Republic denim bar so we could take a peek at the hottest new styles from the brand, alongside custom fittings from Maidenform and ShāToBu™ shapewear, Carrera sunglasses and a furnishings by Modern Dose.
On the other side of the main room was a spa-like lounge area where we could get all dolled up! Ginger + Liz, two ladies who started their own line of fab nail colors, were there providing manicures using their haute collection. My fave was ‘Swagger’. Makeup was provided by Neil for Jouer Cosmetics. He did such a fab job on my face that I sorta hired him to duplicate the look for my upcoming wedding! A professional hair stylist from PHYTO was also there to provide blow-outs. Yes, I felt spoiled for the day!
The Robert Verdi Luxe Laboratory event was amazing! It was such a great space to relax, mingle with other fashion bloggers and editors and get up close and personal with the brands I already write about.
Thanks Robert Verdi! Hope to pay another visit to the Luxe Laboratory very soon!
Cole Haan shoes and handbags and more on today’s exclusive online sample sales
February 24, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · Leave a Comment
*Editor’s picks: Burberry, Ella Moss, Cole Haan, Twinkle by Wenlan, Adidas SLVR, Juicy Couture, Giuseppe Zanotti, Amrita Singh
Shop online sample sales for Wednesday 2/24/10 at Gilt, Gilt Fuse, ideeli, Row Nine, Rue La La, Billion Dollar Babes, Editor’s Closet, Beyond the Rack, HauteLook, Enviius, Gomatta Girls, Lucky Chic, One King’s Lane, Reverse by Revolve, Jetsetter, Gilt Man, Estile, DD Push, The Top Secret, The Skinny, Juxzy, GlamList and Rent the Runway. Just click on the links to sign up and start shopping!
Beyond the Rack: Burberry, Sunglasses, Ecko, Rivet de Cru, Glam Rock, Tova
Billion Dollar Babes: Paige Premium Denim, Ella Moss, Rhys Dwfen
DD Push is an exclusive online sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Kelly Nishimoto Fall clearance
Editor’s Closet is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: A&R Cashmere, Corioliss
Enviius: Nella Bella, Cuche
Estile: Amanda Garrett
Gilt Groupe: Cole Haan Shoes, Barclay, Butera, Ali Ro, Tucker, Jewelry by Fiona Paxton and Page Sargisson, Cole Haan Handbags
Gilt Fuse: Skagen Watches, Twinkle by Wenlan
Gilt Jetsetter: The Cooper Square Hotel – New York
Gilt Man: Skagen Watches, Barclay, Butera, Matuse, eShave, Adidas SLVR
GlamList is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Rivers
Gomatta Girls: Nicola Bertti
HauteLook: Juicy Couture, Lorac, Accutron, Surya, Monarchy, Code.Ai, Lil Lucca
ideeli: Tart, London Fog, Jones New York, Amrita Singh, Central Park, Jag, Avant
Juxzy is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com
Lucky Chic: Apple, Whole Foods, Cuisinart
One King’s Lane is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Bliss Studio, Ironware International, W. King Ambler
Rent the Runway: Wear It Now! New Nudes: The Perfect Transition
Reverse by Revolve: Current Elliott, Black Halo, Gaspard Yurkievich, BB Dakota
RowNine: Wallace, Towle Living, Sasaki Flatware, Bedat & Co. Ladies Watches, Dazzling Diamond Rings
Rue La La: Giuseppe Zanotti Design, Natorious, Hand-Selected Elegance: Wristwear We Love, Hand-Selected Elegance: Wristwear We Love - Men’s, Calvin Klein home
Shopbop: The Next Wave: Surfer girl looks
The Top Secret: Menu Home Design Accessories Sale and Eli Satchel Bag $59 as Top Pick
Burberry show and the front row at London Fashion week and more on Weekly Shopping and Goodies
February 24, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · 1 Comment
Burberry Prorsum at London Fashion Week (via StyleMaven)
A Few Goody GumDrops is excited to share Josie Marin’s lipstick and recyclable tubes with you!
Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy deflates Aqua 24 Viva Lips! cream claim to fame as a lip plumper.
Couture In The City deflates rock and roll style with 2010 fall collection Diesel Black Gold
Fashion Cents gives you the ammunition to address the style basics. Enter to win now!
Fashion Hippo can’t believe the price of this chic Melie Bianco Satchel
Handbag du Jour wants to know if you think the Alexander McQueen Thriller Faithful Glove Clutch is macabre or a must-have?
Ladybrillemag.com says Lukando Face of Africa Winner Does Lunch with Iman!
Quinta Trends comments 10 reason why it still loves The Devil wears Prada.
Straighten those locks! Raging Rouge reviews the Hana Elite Flat Iron.
Shopping and Info is giving away a messenger bag from Aspinal of London.
SomeoneSpoilMe.com is giving away a Pea in the Pod gift certificate. Enter to WIN!
Style Eyes is really pleased about The Green Room for more ethical and eco fashion at ASOS.
StyleMaven is lusting after the luxe shearling aviator jackets shown at Burberry Prorsum for London Fashion Week.
TheFind Blog is replacing her heavy winter coat with a lighter and Spring-ier MICHAEL Michael Kors Sateen Trench.
What’s Haute Magazine is giving away 5 copies of House of Versace: The Untold Story of Genius, Murder, and Survival. Enter to win!
Jean Paul Gaultier rocks the house with ‘Designer Collaborations’ collection at Target
February 23, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · Leave a Comment
If you’ve had enough of the winter (we’re talking to you snowstorms), you’re probably already checking out spring fashions and deciding what to buy. Well so are we! And one of the must-buys on our list is a few pieces from the Jean Paul Gaultier for Target collection. The collection launches March 7, as part of Target’s ‘Designer Collaborations’ series. Gaultier is the third designer in the series, which features “well-established designers who draw inspiration from a collaborative partner, muse or creative element.”
Since we just couldn’t wait to see it in stores, so we stole a peek at the looks from Nitrolicious (via Refinery 29) and we likey! So, it’s not the most cohesive collection (Tim, Heidi, Nina and Michael might not approve) but still, the individual items are worth a trip to Target. We spy lovely floral print dresses and skirts, some covetable spring trench coats, bombers and moto jackets (especially loving the two-tone black jacket with red underside flaps!), tattoo print leggings, graphic tees with side ties, Breton-inspired striped tops, bathing suits, solid cardigans, gingham bustiers – you name it! As Tim Gunn would say, there’s a whole lotta look here but at least there’s something for everyone!
From JPG:
“My collection with Target pays homage to the wide range of personalities that make up the diverse styles of American women. From ingénue to rock ‘n roll, this collection celebrates women of all ages and a host of distinctive, iconic American styles.”
What will you be buying? (Click images to view larger)
Olivia Harris, Tracy Reese, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Velvet Angels and more on today’s online sample sales for Tuesday 2/23/10
February 23, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · Leave a Comment
Shop online sample sales for Tuesday 2/23/10 at Gilt, Gilt Fuse, ideeli, Row Nine, Rue La La, Billion Dollar Babes, Editor’s Closet, Beyond the Rack, HauteLook, Enviius, Gomatta Girls, Lucky Chic, One King’s Lane, Reverse by Revolve, Jetsetter, Gilt Man, Estile, DD Push, The Top Secret, The Skinny, Juxzy, GlamList and Rent the Runway. Just click on the links to sign up and start shopping!
Editor’s picks: Diesel, CHANEL Vintage Handbags, Olivia Harris Accessories, Plenty by Tracy Reese, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Velvet Angels, Dazzling Diamond Rings, Marc Bouwer Glamit!,
Beyond the Rack: Diesel, Police, Jackpot, Be Creative, Bill Blass, Kiss Hooks, and Christian Bernard
Billion Dollar Babes: CHANEL Vintage Handbags, Karmel & Alden and Plume
DD Push is an exclusive online sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Kelly Nishimoto Fall clearance
Editor’s Closet is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Bodyography Professional Cosmetics
Enviius: Nella Bella Handbags and Accessories
Estile: Amanda Garrett
Gilt Groupe: Tracy Reese, Designer Denim, Jewelry by KEP, DayNa Decker Candles, Yarnz, Catherine Rapetti, Olivia Harris Accessories & More
Gilt Fuse: Sperry Topsider, Plenty by Tracy Reese
Gilt Jetsetter: A’jia – Istanbul, Mon Hôtel - Paris
Gilt Man: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Friend or Foe and Property Of…, DayNa Decker Candles
GlamList is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: TrendyLand
Gomatta Girls: Amici Accessories
HauteLook: Robert Rodriguez, Robbi & Nikki, Decades Two, Gucci, Movado, Exhale, Radiance Pearl, Velvet Angels, Elephantito, Metropolis
ideeli: Steven, Marc Bouwer Glamit!, Tommy Hilfiger, Collective Concepts, Wrap Star, Lovestitch, Anolon
Juxzy is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com
Lucky Chic: Gift cards from Keurig, Dillards, Gaiam
One King’s Lane is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Kalorik, Simrin and CulinHome
Rent the Runway: Wear It Now! New Nudes: The Perfect Transition
Reverse by Revolve: Current Elliott, Black Halo, Gaspard Yurkievich, BB Dakota
RowNine: Dazzling Diamond Rings
Rue La La: Dylan George, Allrounder by Mephisto, Patz & Hall, Kosta Boda, and Orrefors
Shopbop: The Next Wave: Surfer girl looks
The Top Secret: Betsey Johnson Sunglasses Sale and Paradise Blue Necklace/ Earring Set $36 as Top Pick
Valentino pret-a-porter and more at today’s online sample sales
February 22, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · Leave a Comment
Shop online sample sales for Monday 2/22/10 at Gilt, Gilt Fuse, ideeli, Row Nine, Rue La La, Billion Dollar Babes, Editor’s Closet, Beyond the Rack, HauteLook, Enviius, Gomatta Girls, Lucky Chic, One King’s Lane, Reverse by Revolve, Jetsetter, Gilt Man, Estile, DD Push, The Top Secret, The Skinny, Juxzy, GlamList and Rent the Runway. Just click on the links to sign up and start shopping!
Beyond the Rack: Muhammad Ali Memorabilia, Buffalo, Strellson, Covet, Ben Sherman, and GS Lillian
Billion Dollar Babes: CHANEL Vintage Handbags, Karmel & Alden and Plume
DD Push is an exclusive online sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com
Editor’s Closet is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Roberto Cavalli sunglasses
Enviius: Enchantress Hosiery, Cuche, Greenbaum
Estile: Amanda Garrett
Gilt Groupe: Valentino Pret-a-Porter and Valentino Roma, Chan Luu Scarves, Jewelry by Linda Levinson and Nancy Cohen, Alessi, Gurhan Jewelry, Jenny Han and more
Gilt Fuse: Jessica Kagan Cushman Jewelry & Handbags, Jenny Han
Gilt Jetsetter: The James Hotel – Chicago, The Bavarian Lodge – Taos,
Gilt Man: Bonfire, Alessi, Smith Optics Goggles, Icebreaker
GlamList is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Le Dressing de Lisa
Gomatta Girls: Belargo, Closeout sale
HauteLook: Frankie B., Gara Danielle Jewelry, Plenty Home by Tracy Reese, Liz Lange, Sequoia Handbags, and more!
ideeli: bcbg generation, kenneth cole reaction, owens’ slab, js collections, js boutique and thro
Juxzy is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com
Lucky Chic: Gift cards from Barney’s, Bliss, Nintendo, Kimpton, US Airways and more!
One King’s Lane is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Hillary Thomas, Bailey Street, Archipelago Botanicals, and Little Giraffe
Rent the Runway: Wear It Now! New Nudes: The Perfect Transition
Reverse by Revolve: Current Elliott, Black Halo, Gaspard Yurkievich, BB Dakota
RowNine: Bedat & Co. Ladies’ Watches
Rue La La: Tommy Bahama, ZOA, and Luxury on the Slopes - Spring Edition: Destination Hotels & Resorts Boutiques
Shopbop: The Next Wave: Surfer girl looks
The Top Secret: Alexandra Dillon Jewelry and Tambourine Tote Bag $34 as Top Pick
Shop online sample sales for Friday 2/19/10
February 19, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · Leave a Comment
Shop online sample sales for Friday 2/19/10 at Gilt, Gilt Fuse, ideeli, Row Nine, Rue La La, Billion Dollar Babes, Editor’s Closet, Beyond the Rack, HauteLook, Enviius, Gomatta Girls, Lucky Chic, One King’s Lane, Reverse by Revolve, Jetsetter, Gilt Man, Estile, DD Push, The Top Secret, The Skinny, Juxzy, GlamList and Rent the Runway. Just click on the links to sign up and start shopping!
Beyond the Rack: Calvin Klein, One Life, Classic Coffee & Tea by Yedi, Levante, and Sahani
Billion Dollar Babes: Bread and Butter, Briana Erin, Sophia Carlo, Jennie Liu
DD Push is an exclusive online sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com
Editor’s Closet is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: MeChar, Calvin Klein, Lotus Pure Organics
Enviius: Greenbaum, Mizdragonfly
Estile: Joveeba, Multi-designer sale
Gilt Groupe: L.A.M.B., Anzie Jewelry, Pitty Shants, 1891 by Sferra, Ben-Amun Jewelry, Must-Have Boots: Rosegold, Kelsi Dagger, Members Only and More, Elizabeth and James, Rag & Bone, Steven Alan, Blabla Kids, BCBGMAXAZRIA
Gilt Fuse: Must-Have Boots: Rosegold, Kelsi Dagger, Members Only and More, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Vestal watches
Gilt Jetsetter: My Serengeti Safari, Tribe – Kenya, Le Quartier Francais – Franschhoek Valley, South Africa
Gilt Man: Titanium by Columbia, New Balance Fashion Sneakers, Loomstate, 1891 by Sferra, Ted Baker, SeaVees, Vestal Watches
GlamList is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Total Look: Cabaret
Gomatta Girls: BLVD, Go Couture, Closeout Sale
HauteLook: Romeo & Juliet Couture, Swiss Army Watches, Right Bank Babies, Alisa Michelle Designs, Statements by J., Remetee Men
ideeli: dolce & gabbana, d&g, carlos falchi, black, lk jewelry and hype kids
Juxzy is an exclusive online private sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com
Lucky Chic: Gift cards from Peet’s Coffee, Target, Gaiam
One King’s Lane is a free, highly exclusive and invitation-only sample sale site. In order to join, please email me at editor (at) whatshaute (dot) com: Built NY, Surya rugs and pillows
Rent the Runway: New Arrivals from Nicole Miller for All Your Events This Spring!
Reverse by Revolve: Current Elliott, Black Halo, Gaspard Yurkievich, BB Dakota
RowNine: Women’s fragrances, Couristan rugs
Rue La La: cino, Smashbox Cosmetics, Safavieh Home Furnishings
Shopbop: The Next Wave: Surfer girl looks
The Skinny: Mbeze
The Top Secret: G-lish Apparel - Free Shipping also Eli Large Hobo Bag $59 as Top Pick
Win it! One of 5 copies of House of Versace: The Untold Story of Genius, Murder, and Survival
February 18, 2010 by Ehmonie Hainey · 23 Comments
He was one of the most prolific designers of our time, known for his incredibly opulent and flashy collections, and his strong, loyal celebrity following. Equally loved and criticized, Gianni Versace, the Versace label, and the man behind it, stayed on the fashion radar. But behind all of the glitz and glam was a lot more. House of Versace: The Untold Story of Genius, Murder, and Survival, by Deborah Ball, delves into the storied life of the designer, his family, and his rise to fame. Ball, a former Milan correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, conducted interviews with Versace’s family members, lovers, business rivals, fashion models and industry icons.
Want the book? We’re giving away five copies! To enter to win, leave a comment below telling us your favorite Versace memory. And for more entries, Join our Facebook group, become a fan, or follow us on Twitter. Contest ends February 28, 2010 at 11:59 pm EST.
Versace. The very name conjures up images of outrageous glamour and bold sexuality, opulence and daring. All of course true, but only half the story. Versace is also the legacy of a great creative genius from a poor, backward part of southern Italy who transformed the fashion world through his intuitive understanding of both women and how a changing culture influenced the way they wanted to dress. The first book in English about the legendary designer, House of Versace shows how Gianni Versace, with his flamboyant sister Donatella at his side, combined his virtuosic talent and extraordinary ambition to almost single-handedly create the celebrity culture we take for granted today.
Gianni Versace was at the height of his creative powers when he was murdered in Miami Beach. The story was front page news around the world and the manhunt for his killer a media obsession. His beloved sister Donatella demanded no less than a funeral befitting an assassinated head-of-state to be held in Milan’s magnificent cathedral. In what was the ultimate fashion show, the world’s rich and beautiful – Princess Dianna, Elton John, Carla Bruni, Naomi Campbell, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Anna Wintour and others – gathered to mourn a man already considered one of fashion’s great pioneers.
Deborah Ball vividly recounts the behind-the scenes struggles – both creative and business – of Donatella as she stepped out of her brother’s long shadow and took control of the House of Versace. The book offers the first inside look at the enormous challenges Donatella faced in living up to Gianni’s genius, her struggle with a drug habit, her battles with her brother Santo and the mystery of why Gianni left control of his house to Donatella’s young daughter, Allegra.
House of Versace is a compelling, highly readable tale of rise from obscurity, a painful fall and ultimate redemption as the Versace empire returned to health – for now.
Special thanks to Crown Publishing Group (a division of Random House) for hosting this giveaway!
Exclusive look at Ramona Singer’s new Jewelry Line for HSN
February 16, 2010 by Allison Croce · 1 Comment
Ramona Singer of The Real Housewives of New York is back with new jewelry to wow us all. Her gorgeous, affordable, estate-inspired pieces have been exclusively available on HSN. With a new Real Housewives season about to air, get a head start on shopping for her new collection, which you’ll see highlighted on this season of The Real Housewives of New York.
With an extensive design background, and a flair for fashion, Ramona’s new line consists of pendants, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings that will be sure to please everyone. With glamorous art deco and auction-inspired designs, Ramona wants to create jewelry that every woman will want to own and pass down to their daughters one day. Trendy jewelry comes and goes, but classic style is timeless. I purchased one of Ramona’s lemon quartz rings and I can attest to the beauty and quality of her pieces. Be prepared for tons of compliments when you wear Ramona’s jewelry.
I have been lucky enough to get a preview of the new line, and it is full of gorgeous pieces to add to your jewelry collection. Ramona’s fabulous designs incorporate apple quartz, beautiful hues of chalcedony, smokey quartz, dramatic large diamond hoop earrings, and my personal favorite, rose vermeil paired with gemstones and diamonds. Tune in to HSN on March 2nd to see Ramona debut her new collection at 1pm-3pm and 10pm-12am EST.
In the meantime, check out all of Ramona’s current pieces available at HSN.
Brulee Lingerie: Questions and answers with designer Kristian Giambi
February 16, 2010 by Allison Croce · Leave a Comment
The dilemma women often face when shopping for lingerie is sacrificing comfort for sexy. How great does the combination of comfortable and sexy sound when thinking about high-quality lingerie and loungewear? Well, that is just what Kristian Giambi had in mind when she designed Brulee, a luxurious line of lingerie that is all handcrafted in New York. Composed of fine materials, such as cotton, silk, and jersey, Brulee was born out of necessity. When she couldn’t find the type of loungewear she was looking for, Kristian decided to create beautiful yet sexy pieces that were feminine without all the frills.
I recently had the opportunity to ask Kristian some questions about her new line, and I am very excited about the debut of Brulee. If you are looking to indulge yourself in a new piece of lingerie to spice up your undergarment wardrobe, Kristian suggests a sexy bodysuit, adding that just because “…it is lingerie does not mean that it must go unseen. For example, pair a bodysuit with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt and jacket during the day, then simply remove the jacket for instant transition into evening & night.”
If you are revamping your lingerie for 2010 and want to splurge while adding more ’sexy’ to your underwear drawer, then look to add some teddies. Kristian feels that “they are unbelievably comfy while still being beautiful and so sexy.” In fact, comfortable, sexy, empowering lingerie and loungewear were the driving force in starting Brulee.
Available in select boutiques and online at Brulee.net, Kristian feels that women will find Brulee’s pieces to be classic and full of glamour, yet with an edgy twist. One great tip is to try on a bunch of different styles to find what best suits your body type, however, don’t discount finding a good tailor if you need a small adjustment in the fit of your lingerie.
With a wide variety of styles, all with intricate details and fine workmanship, women can wear Brulee undergarments and feel sexy, confident, and most of all comfortable! And as if that isn’t exciting enough, Kristian reveals that in 2010, Brulee “…promises to leave you wanting to see what is underneath.”
