Fashion Week: To See Or Be Seen?

Robert Verdi & I
The fashionistas, stylists, editors and buyers are all lined up in Bryant park. The crowd is thick, the lines are long and the sponsors are everywhere the eye can see. So what is everyone there for? To see the fashion shows of course! Everyone is just bursting at the seams to see the latest line by Marc Jacobs and rub elbows with T.V. fashion journalists. The eye candy is delicious to say the least but the truth is that most of these spectators are not just there to enjoy the sights. They are also there to be seen in their own little personal fashion show.

To be perfectly honest, I play the "see and be seen" game as well. True to fashionista style, I planned out my fashion week outfits 3 weeks in advance. The thought process in my wardrobe planning was pretty simple though. I thought about each day's schedule and the situations that it may present. I think about who I may run into, how far I need to walk and what the weather is like. I also try to edit my choices so that my clothing is an asset to be taken seriously. I will be dealing with PR reps, sponsors, and industry professionals. If you want to be seen as a fashion editor, you dam well have to look like one. But in the same breath I should mention that I don't want to appear too pretentious either. I don't wish to give the impression of a fashion victim or a wannabe model. Hopefully through my fashion choices, it is event which side of fashion that I am on. (which is clearly not the runway).
All function aside, fashion is still one of the most important ways to communicate who you are without saying a word. Not to mention, it's also a huge ego booster when a fellow fashion fan wants to take a picture of your fabulous ensemble or a snooty looking diva gives you the "once over" look and a nodding approval. There you are, in a room with the world's most fashionable people and it would be tragic if your outfit was forgettable. Instead of the blond girl standing by the fountain, you can be remembered as the stylish girl with the sky high Louboutin boots and the red leopard scarf.

Nothing beats the main attraction of fashion week: skyscraper models, high fashion looks and heart pumping beats. But the whole experience just wouldn't be the same if we didn't seize the opportunity to be fabulous. After all, the opening act for runway shows really begin with walking around the tent and scoping out the spectator's outfits. Fashion Week is a show that we not only go to watch. It is a show that we inadvertently become a part of.

Fashion Week Report: Inside The Tents

All the fun & excitement of fashion week is just getting started. This weekend has brought many great shows so far and there are many more to come! Before I start posting all the fashion photos, I thought it would be fun to include some random photos of what's going on inside the tents. It's filled with colorful sponsor booths, newbie models and tons of stylists that we see on television. It's also filled with tons of unique individuals with fashion sense that ranges from fierce to scary to out right insane. When roaming the tents, you are sure to spot out several familiar faces from the Style network and E channel.

Fashion Week Trivia

All aspiring fashionistas must know their fashion facts inside & out! As you know, New York Fashion week is one of those most important events in fashion. Over the years designers, models & media have created a phenomenon that is so nice we celebrate it twice a year! here are some interesting fashion trivia facts that you just might find interesting.

See you on the runway!

1) About 40 fashion weeks are held in different cities around the world every year. But the Big Four are in New York, London, Milan and Paris, and they are the most prestigious. Smaller fests are found in countries as far-flung as Croatia, Pakistan and Iran.

2) Each of the Big Four holds two shows a year - the fall/winter collections from February and the spring/summer collections from September. The shows are timed ahead of the actual season so that buyers can place their orders and have them arrive at stores in time for the season. It also gives fashion magazines time to drum up breathless editorials to hail the arrival of the season's must-have items.

3) The Big Four always take place in this order: New York, London, Milan and Paris.

4) Each festival has more than 100 events, including runway shows, charity events, gala dinners and accessory showcases. The big designer names will show during the main week, while most smaller and mass labels will show before or after that.

5) New York Fashion Week is the oldest, having been inaugurated in 1943 by fashion publicist Elenor Lamber who wanted to give American designers a chance to showcase their works and to draw attention away from fashion-stalwart Paris. The newest of the four is London.

6 ) Fashion Weeks started out as trade-only events that were open to buyers and manufacturers. But over the years, they have become glamorous entertainment and media events, attracting celebrities to its hallowed front rows.

7) Each of the Big Four is known for championing different styles - New York for sportswear; London for edgy, avant-garde design; Milan for its over-the-top yet stylish looks; and Paris for haute couture.

8) Fashion Weeks are as much about dictating clothing trends as they are about the latest in accessories (shoes, bags, jewelry, hats) and make-up.

9) Some designers show at the same city year after year, while others hop among the Big Four.

10) Runway shows usually last from 15 to 20 minutes, although the waiting time for a show to start can run up to two hours - as was the case at the Marc Jacobs spring/summer 2008 show in New York last season.

27 "Ugly" Dresses

In the spirit of the movie "27 Dresses" I thought that it would be fun to write a post about ugly bridesmaid dresses. Those who have suffered through a night in pink, puffy taffeta know exactly what I mean. For those who have not, well you are about about to find out. (I'm Sure that Katherine Heigl could make almost any bridesmaid dress work though)

I stumbled across a hilarious website that allows women around the world to express their detest for ugly dresses. The site not only features bridesmaid disasters but, it also features wedding gowns from hell. That's right! Even the brides are not immune from dress bashing. Appropriately named, the site is called UglyDresses.com.

If you find yourself bored at work or just want to make yourself feel better by laughing at the fashion mishaps of others, then divulge in this guilty pleasure of dress bashing. One thing to keep in mind people....sometimes BAD fashion speaks louder than good. This is especially true at weddings.

Peroni/Vogue Magazine--"50 Years of Italian Style" Photographic Exhibition

L'Uomo Vogue February 1996 by Walter Chin
True fashion lovers appreciate fashion photography. Especially photos from the past that tell a story about how fashion has evolved over the years. For any fashion lovers who will be in New York this weekend, you definitely don't want to miss the photography exhibition sponsored by Peroni and Vogue. The exhibit is open to the public from February 2nd through February 4th. See below for more details. You just might spot some incredible fashion inspiration or perhaps even fashion eye candy for your walls.

Vogue Italia, the bible of international style and Peroni Nastro Azzurro, the premium Italian beer have joined forced to create a retrospective photographic exhibition--50 Years of Italian Style--an event that will feature fifty iconic images of Italian style, spanning five decades. This public exhibition features images that have appeared in Vogue Italia, Casa Vogue and L'Uomo Vogue and captures the enduring Italian essence as viewed by some of the world's top photographers.

**Peroni & Vogue Present: 50 Years of Italian Style**

Exhibition Viewing
Date: Saturday, February 2 – Monday, February 4, 2008
Time: 10a.m.-6p.m. (except Monday which will be 10a.m.-3p.m. )
Location: Twelve 21 ( West 21^st Street between 5^th and 6^th)

**Free Admittance**

Vogue Italia April 1999 by Steve Heitt fashion by Prada

Travel Style Essentials

Taking to the skies can be such a mixed bag. When on business trips, it can be a much needed diversion from the office or a stressful & uncomfortable ride. When traveling for pleasure, the flight to your destination is usually a breeze but coming home is often a dreaded task. Whether you like to fly or not, it always helps to make the best of flight. Make it as fabulous as possible and as enjoyable as possible. And while you’re at it, make it as fashionable as possible. Coach can become first class if you play your fashion flight cards right. Here are some fashion essentials that I cannot do without when airborne.

Cashmere Wrap

Not only does it serve as a luxurious element of style but it also comes in handy when chill sets in. You never know if the plane will be hot or cold so a removable piece like this is ideal. It’s also a great pillow if you fold it up nicely to mold to your neck. Those airline pillows are so akward

Pair of Shades

You are going to want these day or night. Trust me on this. Day time flights allow bright sunlight to come through and night time flights always impose those overhead reading lights on you whether you like it or not. Plus, this also gives a clear indication that you don’t want to speak to the drunken fool sitting next to you.

The softest cardigan you own

Cashmere is my fabric of choice but do wear whatever makes you feel at home. It’s important to layer when on a plane. Again, you never know if you are gonna get hot or cold. Have 2-3 layers that can be removed or added as needed.

Jersey Knit Pants

Be honest about it! Sweat pants look sloppy and you never know where you might end up so go with a fashionable alternative. You can find super cute pants that look like trousers but are made of Jersey knit. My choice was the wool jersey knit “Dara” pants by Diane Von Furstenberg. They felt like PJ’s but looked like classy wide-leg pants.

A fabulous ID case

Considering that you have to constantly have your tickets and ID in hand, why not have a fabulous ID case that compliments your personal style? If you like bling, then you can bling out your cigarette case or business card case. My case is actually chrome with detailed etching on it. I also have a Hello Kitty business card holder but I don’t show that one off so much.

Classic Tote

This is really not the time for a small bag or clutch. A large tote is perfect because you probably have Books, magazines, a sweater, bottled water, etc. Canvas is cool but I go for a large Leather tote because it’s Luxe all the way when I fly baby.

Fabulous iPod Case

Again, to some this may seem silly but surely a fashionista can appreciate a leather iPod case by Coach or a funky canvas one from a trendy store. It’s all in the accessories. Work them out!

Fabulous Flats or Low Heel Boots

Flats are just sooo fabulous these days. The options are endless so there is no excuse not to have great shoes in flight. Sneakers are clunky and you they just might make your feet hot. Low heeled boots can be great too. That is what I go with actually. As long as they are easy to get on and off, they are my flight footwear of choice.

An inspiring book or Fashion Magazine

I try to take both a book and magazine along. My top 3 fashion mags are Elle, Vogue and Bazaar. As far as books go, try to bring something that is fun or lite hearted. This is probably not the best time to read a tear jerker or scary thriller. Unless you are into that sort of thing.

Delicious Candy & Water

You definitely don’t want to have to wait around for beverage service. The air is dry and most of the time the food sucks. Buy your favorite candy or snack once you get through security. My personal favorite is Almond Joy. It’s absolutely divine and it feels like fashion for my mouth.

Journal/Notebook or Laptop & A colorful pen

If you are lucky enough not to have to lug around a laptop then consider bringing a great little notebook with a stylish design on the cover. The journals that come in leather or faux wood are really chic as well. Don’t forget a pen that will make you smile when you pull it out of your bag. Write down all the wonderful things you saw & did on your trip for future inspiration.

Project Runway Gives Denim A Fresh Face

I have to say that last night's episode of Project Runway was one of my favorites. After all, who doesn't love jeans? The designers were able to show the world that denim has evolved over time and will continue to change as it comes back around.

Denim is very close to American hearts so, the delightful looks from last night will stay with me for a long time. Here is the rundown on Project Runway's new face of denim.

So let's start with the winner of the evening, Ricky. His dress sure was looking fierce and the fact that it is so commercial is probably what put him in the winner's circle. The skirt is a bit too short for me but for girls 18 - 23, this could be a super cute party dress. Now, if only we can get Ricky to stop crying.

I expected Jillian to be ALL over this challenge. I am really disappointed. What went wrong? Well, for starters it was basically 5 dresses in one. Even Heidi couldn't have made that dress look good. But I have to give her credit for taking risks and putting herself out there. She gets 10 bravery points from me.


Yes, we are thankful that Rami did something other than Draping. Can you imagine if he would have tried that yet again with denim? ha ha ha! Well, luckily he didn't. This little number is cute and absolutely wearable. I would normally say that someone over 25 should not wear a denim jumper/dress such as this but, it's cut so well that I wouldn't feel too young. Quite Sophisticated actually.

Did Victorya fall down and bumper her little head? Usually her looks are quite good (Though her style does not suit me personally). I do think that she has sent a few yawn-worthy garments down the runway though. I am not 100% sure if she deserves to be the one sent home but there is no denying that one way to describe this denim frock is blah blah!

OK Chris, I see where you are going with this piece. I don't hate it. It's a bit young but that's not necessarily a bad thing. A college girl would look super cute in that outfit. Overall, not bad. (or at least not as bad as some of the stuff you sent down the runway in weeks 1-5)






Christian is such a rock star!! He reminds me of last Season's Jefferey but his point of view is a bit more European inspired and glam. You can't deny that his outfit was HOT! I would wear that Jacket everyday if I could. And those jeans.... oh boy If I could only fit into those. I don't think my calves would make it! A girl can dream though.


Sweet Pea gets my award for outfit of the night that I would most like to wear. It would compliment my frame perfectly and the patchwork is surprisingly chic. The dark wash patches on the hip conceal everything I need it to. And let's not forget that this look is totally unique. I have never seen anything quite like it. I think that the only reason that Levis couldn't choose it is because it doesn't really fit their brand. That's understandable. Do you think it would fit me?

Fashion Week Countdown

Are you ready? Are you counting down? Fashion week starts Next Friday and the runway buzz is buzzing. Just in case you need the lowdown on everything that is happening with the show, here are all the resources you will need. On Thursday 1/31, I will make sure to post all of the shows that will be covered by FashionAlaMode: the good, the bad, the ugly but mostly just the fabulous!! It's gonna be great! And who knows? There might be some juicy celebrity gossip to slip in there.

You can catch the runway shows on the T.V. show "Full Frontal Fashion". If any of you know of other media sources who will run video of the event, please let me know. Oh yeah! NYmag.com will also have runway fashion videos posted on their website and blog. Clear your schedules now!

Fashion Designer Schedule
List of Fashion Designers
Fashion Week Sponsors
Fashion Week News
Fashion Week Pictures
Fashion Week: Previous Seasons

Easy Like Sunday Morning

Here's a fashion format that I often have trouble tackling: "Casual Chic". It's Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning. I need to run some errands and go shopping but I still want to look presentable to the world. It seems so easy right? Just throw on some jeans, a tee shirt and some flats. (I don't do sneakers. It's just a personal choice). But no, it's not that easy.

Monday through Friday is great because between flirty skirts, colorful blouses and sky high shoes, there is no shortage of my personality and style. But come the weekend, most choices look totally childish and drab. I don't even want to look at my stilettos and my day dresses suddenly seem too prissy for Walgreen's or the book store. With all this anxiety, I end up needing to think through my weekend outfits even more than I would for work or cocktails.

So, I have set out to find as much casual chic fashion inspiration as possible. I want improve the way that I use layering, sweaters, jeans, jackets and scarves on the weekends. I want to master the art of mixing sweet with tough and I also want to experiment with various ways of making a pair of jeans glamorous. After all, even though I'm easy like Sunday morning, I'm still fabulous.

Casual Chic Fashion Inspiration. Enjoy!! = )

On the Subject of Rain Boots.....

Buying a pair of shoes is usually such a joyous experience for me. I love to browse, touch, try on and most importantly, bring home new pairs of shoes. The odd thing is, I recently had a shoe shopping experience that made me feel more like I was shopping for car insurance, not a fabulous piece of fashion for my feet. So what could possibly put such a damper on my favorite pass time? The answer is rain boots. Rubbery, floppy, goofy, tacky rain boots!!!

Let me assure you that this purchase was totally out of necessity. Florida girls may not need them but, if you live in a big city, it's a very bad idea too live without them. So, the only thing left to do was suck it up and buy pair of so called "wellies". The real trouble started when I saw how ridiculous some of the styles were. There are psychedelic prints, skulls, ducks and cute little animals. None of these however, would fit the bill for me. Fashion Gods bless those who it will.

So, for any of you fashion lovers out there who find themselves in the unlucky situation of needed new rain boots, here are some choices that just might NOT make you cringe.




From Left to Right:
Top: Gabriellla Rocha, Michael Kors
Middle: Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade
Bottom: Nine West (These are the one's I ended up with)