HOT PICKS - JOE FRESH!

By now you’re probably aware that a good portion of my wardrobe consists of JOE FRESH apparel (plus shoes, natch). I recently got a peek at the brand's Fall/Winter collection and flipped out. 

Highlighting the season are separates and dresses with a Parisian jazz influence. That translates to a lot of black with touches of metallic and embellishment that add a a tough chic vibe.

JOE FRESH -Fall 2013

Swirling Louis Armstrong, Edith Piaf, a Pack of Gauloises, and 

a Motorcycle into Fall/Winter 2013

It's That Good.

Key items include lots of faux leather, laser cut neoprene, studs, prints and embellishments. Personally, I would be very happy with anything from the collection. I think it’s Joe’s best yet!

Later, C&C

RED LIGHT DISTRICT

I know what you’re thinking, but it’s not that kind of district. 

Red Light is a pr company that holds a press preview twice a year to showcase its fashion clients’ latest collections of RTW, accessories and shoes.

The Red Light's Lure:  

Come In, Little Independent Fashion Editor...

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

Armed with a much needed cup of coffee I made the rounds of the various fall 2013 lines and narrowed my focus to those that caught my eye. The following are my top pics for quality, style and (for the most part affordability). You’ll find most of these at the better boutiques starting in June/July. 

S.I.C COUTURE’s shawl collared tuxedo blazer and cuffed short in wool glen plaid was chic and on trend as was KATHY WILSON’s silk lined lamb leather cocktail dress and her gorgeous brocade pants and matching sleeveless peplum top. 

S.I.C. Couture - Exactly Made, Exactly Stated [sic] 

 

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

I always look forward to the UK-based DARLING collection. Sure most of the clothes are aimed at a younger customer but I could easily see myself in the black “Teresa” Chanel inspired jacket piped in white and trimmed allover with camellias. Simply adorable shown over a white Peter Pan collared blouse. I could also see myself in Darling’s brocade crop jacket if not the black crepe polka dot dress with sheer sleeves. 

Darling - Looking Good on Both Sides of the Atlantic 

 

 

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

GENTLE FAWN offers exclusive prints and some pretty silk tops, however I zeroed in on the perfect wool blend, zip front coat in camel just to be contrary! I’d wear this all winter. 

Gentle Fawn's Wool Blend Coat - Obdurate Warmth, Agreeable Style!

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

As far as accessories, etc. I fell in love with DANIEL ESPINOSA and his high-end jewelry line, particularly the open work butterfly necklace in 22k gold plated silver that’s a real statement piece. Also drool worthy, the black and ivory bakelite cuffs with bezel set semi precious stones. 

Daniel Espinosa - He Made C&C Covetous!

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

SILK BY BRYONY is a collection of magnificent delicate silk scarves printed with unique photo images that Bryony (a talented professional photographer) gathers on her world wide travels. As we speak she’s off to Africa to shoot more scenes to incorporate in her next collection. 

Art, Travel, and Neckwear - 

Three of C&C'S Favorites in One Elegant Package! 

Bravo, Bryony!

Photo Credits:  M. McKenzie

I would be remiss if I didn’t include at least one footwear company. JELLY POP showed some terrific boots, pumps and more, but I especially loved a jewel toned velvet point toed ballet flat accented with a gold bow and the more casual quilted red plaid slip on shoes. 

Jelly Pop - For Once, Jelly Is Better Without Peanut Butter!

 

Photo Credits:  M. McKenzie

That’s all folks, until next time, C&C

JEAN-IUS

Let’s be clear about one thing, I never wear blue jeans! It’s not that I have anything against denim, it’s just that I can’t stand the look of worn, faded, distressed or otherwise torn jeans, it literally makes me sick. That said, I was invited to preview the fall collection from HENRY & BELLE, a Chicago-based jean brand that’s been around since 1931 (so you know they’re doing something right). Yes, they carry the classic blue denim jeans but it was a super skinny, coated pair available in bronze or sable that got my juices flowing. Dressed up or down these add a fresh new look and can work day or night with the right tops.

Henry & Belle - Jeans for All, Even the Jean-ophobes! 

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

Other winners included the ethnic pattern in autumnal shades of gold, a black on black baroque version and the black side stripe (great for elongating the leg) pant with zipper detail in petrol grey. There’s a lot more to choose from but if you’re looking for something different and chic check out this brand. The best part – with every sale at Henry & Belle, a portion is set aside for charitable causes. You are entitled to be part of this by choosing the cause that will receive a donation on your behalf. 

Henry & Belle's Options - Better Looking Than Wall Street's

  

Visit henryandbelle.com/rag to learn about the causes, then enter your purchase code to voice your choice. Once you’ve done that, the company will make it possible for you to hear directly from the individuals it supports. Pretty terrific, no? Consider me converted. Until next time, C&C.

True Couture

We all know that there’s a lot of crap out there so when I chance upon some really top of the line stuff I feel obligated to pass on the info to you.

Remember Kathy Ireland, the ex model? Well, guess what. Not only is she famous for designing furniture, et al, now she’s into designing top quality cashmere apparel. KATHY IRELAND for BRODIE CASHMERE just launched a fall collection of sweaters, accessories, tunics, wraps etc fashioned from the finest Mongolian yarn offered in wonderfully subtle colors and in sizes ranging from s through xl. Let’s face it, cashmere is the king of knits and this debut collection is spot on for style and quality.

Why not dress up that understated cashmere ensemble with a bit of bling. Nothing garish you understand just a bit of subtle sparkle.

Enter BOMBAY JEWELLERY - with two "L's" and its delicate diamond collection. I fell in love with the range of its "Naturally Pink" diamond rings, particularly the designs that featured stones of one carat or less. Sometimes less truly is more as this collection proves. Bombay Jewels also offers delicate drop earrings, studs and more but it’s the rings that stand out. Not cheap by any means but worth the money. What’s that old saying, diamonds are a girl’s best friend? How true! 

Pink Rocks, Pink Rocks, Pink Rocks!  Bombay Jewellery's Pink Diamond Ring 

is C&C's Favorite Rock Star!

**Thank you, Ana Martins PR for Letting C&C See Bombay Jewellery!

Now that I’ve dressed you it’s time to add the finishing touch and that’s French perfume, bien sur! HAYARI PARIS is the newest collection of luxury fragrances from the couture house of Nabil Hayari, a Parisian fashion designer. Let me tell you right off the bat, I’m very particular when it comes to perfumes and the packaging. 

Hayari - Beautiful Perfume, Elegantly Contained!

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

I want a fragrance and bottle design that will stand the test of time since I save the prettiest bottles. Hayari is offering three gorgeous scents that I would happily purchase. “Goldy” reflects a warm, powdery, woody glow and is a blend of jasmine and orange blossom, sandalwood and cedar. “Broderie” (my favorite) features lily and gardenia, complemented by sandalwood, amber and patchouli. “Only for Her” blends grapefruit, Egyptian jasmine, peony and magnolia, with hints of sandalwood, patchouli and vanilla. So far the fragrances are available exclusively a C.O. Bigelow in Manhattan and retail for $145 for a 1.7 oz bottle. For more info go to www.bigelowchemist.com.

Now that I’ve taken care of your appearance why not go all the way and make your living arrangements “couture” as well? Enter LALIQUE and the introduction of a brand new collection of Art deco-inspired furniture, interior design accessories and –wait for it – luxury bed linens. Internationally renowned designers, Lady Tina Green and Piero Mingarelli have created the entire Lalique Maison collection produced by master craftsmen in black or white lacquer or ebony wood detailed with the magnificent crystal that the brand is famous for.

Lalique - At Home and at Rest 

   

Photo Credits:  M. McKenzie

Before you get carried away let’s go back down to earth since the prices are definitely in the couture category but a girl can dream. Why not settle for a piece of Lalique jewelry or perhaps a small vase or perfume flacon? In any case it doesn’t cost anything to dream so stop by the Lalique boutique and start training your eye. Couture isn’t always about price so why settle for crap?

 Until next time, C & C.

SHOW and TELL: Part II

Fashion week is officially over but the hunt for great design continues. I checked out the trade shows and reviewed my notes on the two fashion lounges, (the Daily Suite at the Stone Rose and Nolcha media brunch event at the Yotel). It’s not always easy to separate the wheat from the chaff but I found enough talent to pass on the news to you. 

By now you can probably guess that I have a passion for accessories (and shoes) since it’s one of the easiest ways to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank. A pretty bauble can do just that and I found GLITTERINGS bold and beautiful cocktail rings fit the bill nicely. From the Rock Envy range each stunning ring is designed to illuminate the Swarovski crystals in a contemporary setting. The collection also includes pendants and earrings but I prefer the contemporary look of the rings.

Glitterings' Rock Envy Line - Jealousy Comes in More Colors than Green!

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

JILL ZARIN’s extensive jewelry collection offers a more classic appeal, especially the Central Park and Chinatown groups. There are a variety of pendants suspended from delicate gold chains which I’d like to see worn in multiples.

 Team Jill:  Still Wanting to Hang Things... Better Now That is Fab Jewelry!

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

Necklaces continue to be the most coveted jewelry accessory and the variety offered at AMY DELSON JEWELRY took my breath away. We’re talking semi precious stones , Czech glass, vintage gold, coins and polished brass just to give you an idea of what’s on offer. From a simple textured brass choker on a gold plated chain to and onyx, crystal and silver three strand necklace, this collection has it all. 

If you’re into bracelets they have them as well to order with or without charms. 

You know that I tend to go on and on about handbags and I have no plans to stop now since I found two terrific new lines. JESS RIZZUTI produces her handbags right here in good old NYC while designing each pattern by hand. Not too shabby! Te collection for fall ranges from eco friendly clutches created from wood cork to polished leather satchels and embossed metallic croc clutch bags. This is a very boutique collection that’s aimed at the fashion individualist. For a spectacular occasion MARJORIE RENNER PARIS is a must have resource for the ultimate minaudiere. I flipped for her geometric shapes, exotic woods and hand painted patterns. To find out more abut this magnificent collection go to www.facebook.com/MarjorieRennerParis. 

Who knew that ISSEY MIYAKE made handbags? I didn’t until I spotted his Bao Bao collection at the Coterie trade show. These bags are unlike anything you or I have seen before and just as eye catching. 

Composed of polyvinyl chloride on a polyester base, these prism shaped shoppers, flap over clutches and handbags come in a variety of colors as well as platinum and black. Leave it to the Japanese to come up with something so original and striking. 

I understand that necklaces are taking center stage now but I personally love bracelets ( a girl can’t have too many to my way of 

thinking) and LA based design firm, PRESH happens to fit my lifestyle perfectly. Can’t afford an Hermes cuff, but want that elegant classic look, then this line’s for you. Designer Nicole Apostoli’s high quality designs are timeless and just sporty enough. I adored her leather bands adorned with whimsical charms but especially the wide brown (or black) leather bracelet with gold tone plaque engraved with a meaningful phrase or word. 

Presh - Band Together, Right Now!

Photo Credit:  Presh Designer Collective

In addition , for every piece sold, one pair of shoes is donated to someone in need through the shoe charity Soles4Soles. That gives you another reason to shop her line. Check her out at www.presh.net. 

But enough about accessories for now. I did find a terrific collection that I’m passing along to you. MAYLA is a rtw line out of Stockholm believe it or not ( who knew that the land of deeply depressing murder mysteries could come up with a darling tongue in cheek collection.) The fall 2013 ‘s theme is Hitchcock’s The Birds! 

Except for a fabulous black silk crew neck sweater with Bates Motel vacancy in white across the front that’s sure to cause comment, the rest of the inspiration is more subtly done. For instance, there are tiny black bird on blue ground separates and dresses and sweaters that are charming. For more on the collection go to www.mayla. 

Until next time, C&C

SHOW AND TELL: Fall NY Fashion Week 2013

We came, we saw, the snowstorm conquered fashion week! 

Despite the hassle of getting to the various venues (which didn’t seem to stop some idiot fashionistas from wearing stilettos), your intrepid reporter did manage to hit a number of shows and get a feel for what’s coming up next fall. I did see a lot of neutrals, white and black shades, plus texture, neoprene, leather, furs and knits aplenty that season after season look chic. I personally have a problem with all the techno fabrics. Unless you want to look like a walking hologram or a piece of aluminum foil, I suggest you pass this trend by.

My week started off with an L.A. based firm, GYPSY05, and its collection of eco-friendly separates and dresses with a ‘70s California vibe. Think Kate Hudson or a young Stevie Nicks and you get the picture. Check out the printed maxi dress and any one of the lush ombre velvet tops. Gypsy also showed one of a kind clutch and hobo bags made from vintage Indian blankets.

GYPSY05 -

Obligatory "Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves" 

Joke Omitted For Your Pleasure

 

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

Also off site (but definitely worth the trek across snow filled streets) was the presentation given by CATHERINE MALANDRINO. The overall theme was the era of French Art Deco that translated into graphic, geometric shapes and sensuous fabrics. In a season of standout coats, Malandrino offered two gorgeous pieces in burgundy, I loved a chic funnel collared long wool coat and a knockout deco embroidered leather. For dancing the night away in a smoky boite there was a black velvet embroidered nude tulle slip dress –very jazz baby.

If you buy nothing next fall, please invest in a new coat. One of the best versions turned up at TANYA TAYLOR. Her take on the classic overcoat came in either a stunning alpaca plaid or a navy or burgundy virgin wool.

While we’re on the subject of outerwear I must include some terrific styles for men. At LACOSTE (which incidentally showed a strong collection for both sexes), the white, iceberg printed hooded coats and jackets looked totally modern, while at NAUTICA, the sporty looks were a bit more practical. I loved the yellow parka with LED light detailing at the back of the collar- very practical and cool looking. Reading through my notes I mentioned the fact that there were many items that the girls would covet. These include a grey leather parka with red shearling lined hood, and a black crackled shearling toggle coat.

Back to the ladies starting with CZAR by Cesar Galindo. For me the collection was a mixed bag. The highlights were a teal variegated brocade fingertip length cocoon coat over slim pants, and the same fabric in taupe fashioned into point front jacket atop a side ruched jersey dress. The brocade’s shimmer was what caught my eye. Wear either outfit day or night – I would!

Day or Night, Inside or Out, CZAR Can Rule a Wardrobe

 

Photo Credit: Thomas Concordia

I happen to love the space age look of bonded wool and there were some winners in MILLY’s show. Check out her coral bonded wool zip jacket (skip the hologram separates shown with this), and the black bonded wool back zip collar top and shorts, very young and cute.

For the affluent woman of any age there’s J.MENDEL. His collection was worth considering a bank robbery or neglecting a mortgage payment. It’s your call. Where do I begin? Probably with a mouthwatering pearl mink intarsia zipped turtleneck sweater and white silk crepe slim pants, followed by a black textural paneled grooved mink coat worn over black chiffon shirt with white ermine high collar and chiffon and satin faced panel pleated skirt. If fur’s not your thing, there’s a gorgeous royal blue floral organza cloque sleeveless A-line dress with black trim that’s simply perfect.

For the ladies who lunch there’s SON JUNG WAN who delivered a sophisticated collection for the over 30 crowd. I loved her soft cream/nude color palette (very flattering on every age). Highlights included a nude pink peplum blazer over cream color pleated skirt, the rex fur trimmed beige wool capelet and high waisted pant. There ‘s a real showstopper for the red carpet if that’s your life style. Wan’s golden fox fur coat had gold sequin insert detailing between the horizontal pelts.

Getting back to reality, I stopped by the MATHEU MIRANO instillation. Fighting my way through the hoard of photographers I spied some nice outfits, namely a nude beaver fur cropped zip front jacket over felted wool pencil skirt, a nude felted wool coat with black chainmail covered fox fur detail and the metallic silver sweater dress with pleated detail.

TRINA TURK showed a very wearable collection that showcased some interesting fabrics, furs and sumptuous colors and textures. Here we go with coats again. Buy her ombre melton double breasted car coat shown over a two tone chunky sweater and oxblood lamb stovepipe pants, the wineberry curly lamb and rabbit coat or a yummy chocolate sheared alpaca and melton zip coat.

ANNA SUI’s very French inspired collection was one of her best. I found a new grown-up sophistication that appealed to me. Out of the 46 outfits that strode down the runway, these were the standouts for me: the teal cocoon slub coat (very Missoni), hood, black turtleneck sweater and midnight deco print crepe de Chine dress, a (think Chanel) magenta double faced wool coat atop fuchsia foulard border print chiffon dress and ribbed turtleneck. I also crave the gold horizontal quilted lame coat and matching dress

I saved the best for last, and for me that was LISA PERRY’s debut fall 2013 collection. She presented the capsule ‘60s inspired collection at her upper east side boutique to a packed crowd. Dubbed mazes, twists and doodles, the 24 piece line was youthful, wearable and chic in a way that will never go out of style. My fave was the cream/black houndstooth wool flirt jacket, circle skirt and logo sweater in black wool/cashmere. Very Jackie Kennedy in the early 1960s, and a look that will never go out of style. Be sure to check out her collection at Barney’s as well as her boutique. 

Yours truly also got a chance to hit the fashion week lounges set up for the press and editors. 

C&C Loves the Lounge Life!

 Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

A highlight for me was meeting the Nigerian born, London based designer, DURO OLOWU who previewed his collection for JCP (that’s J C Penny) at the Stone Rose Lounge. To quote him, “I want to bring some international flavor to lifestyle dressing.” That he did with a colorful, affordable collection including rtw, accessories and home goods. Be sure to get one of his checked capacious east west totes (I love mine) in vibrant shades of green, etc. and the coordinating crew neck sweater. If you love color and patterns, you’ll love this designer.

Duro Olowu's Designs Brighten Up You, Your Room, and JCP!

 

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

I hit this space the following day to check out some other vendors. My hot pick goes to FITFLOP shoes. These combine comfort with style -woman cannot live by stilettos alone! I ordered a tri-tone pair of buttery soft calfskin oxfords but the cap toe slip on flats and desert boots were also calling my name. Decisions, decisions.

FLUTTER EYEWEAR introduced it’s new collection at the lounge. As some one who is blind as a bat I can certainly appreciate any company that offers stylish frames. The brand mainly focuses on reading glasses but I opted for a chic pair in aubergine color that I’ll wear for distance. I have very high cheekbones and this brand had the most comfortable frames of any that I’ve tried in years. The collection will be available online at www.fluttereyewear.com. 

Chic, Charitable, Cheekbone- and Canine- Friendly

Flutter Eyewear Does All So You See All

Photo Credit:  M. McKenzie

One nice touch, a portion of Flutter Eyewear's profits go to Canine Companions which provide trained dogs as companions for people with disabilities. Another great reason to order a pair.

That’s all for now… to be continued. C & C.

New Year, New Bag

By now your holiday gift giving is over and you’ve hit the January sales (in case you haven’t be sure to check out C Wonder and Joe Fresh for some great deals)/ So it’s time to take a look-see at some spring handbags.  By the time you read this I’ll be into the fall fashion shows, but what we really want is wardrobe refreshing and accessories are the easiest way to go. 

That said, here are a few of my handbag picks that I considered for style, newness and affordability. FURLA somehow always manages to capture the latest trends while keeping a certain classic vibe (in other words these are bags that will look great years from now). In addition to neutrals, the color blocking still looks on trend and my votes go to the bull leather, calf and nappa flap over satchel with detachable shoulder strap in a tri-tone combo of marble, white and onyx. Other combos also available. Last year’s best selling rubber doctor's bag is back and combined with croc printed calf for spring.  I love it opaline white and the lime yellow versions. 

FURLA'S Doctor's Bag Will Have You Turning Others' Heads!

 

You'll Sling the Best Bull From Your Shoulder!

 FURLA Image Credits:  Melanie McKenzie

Since Marc Jacobs made black/white combos de rigeur in rtw his influence has mad an impact in the accessory and handbag areas. One of the best looking bags comes from a designer new to me, ALEXANDRA SATINE. While not exactly inexpensive you’ll more than get your money’s worth as her Oak Point range offers more bang for the buck.

The 2-in-1 handbag features a removable semi circle clutch. It comes with a removable and adjustable strap, plus a chain for the clutch.

This goes into pre fall so for earlier delivery check out the white/beach tan leather 5 in 1 tote with removable front envelope with chain and webbing.

DANIELLA LEHAVI’s Italian leather bags are handmade in Israel. The top handle rollover satchel can accommodate a ton of stuff and comes in lots of color/texture variations from black and white python to nude texture blocking.

For all you vegans out there finding attractive non leather goods can be a problem. To the rescue comes URBAN EXPRESSIONS a boutique- focused line of luxury handbags out of LA (where else)? The ladylike black patent flap over handbag with gold tone chain strap and hardware gets my vote for day into evening wear, while the quilted soft zip top satchel is a good everyday choice year round. 

Also offering vegans a fun option is SORIAL with its crystal clear collection of colorful transparent plastic totes and wristlets in crayola colors. My eye also gravitated to the embossed python collection, especially the roomy tri-color satchel in black/white/lime. 

SARIT is another adorable source for “vegan’ handbags. Whimsical styles and trendy silhouettes make this very affordable collection a must for spring into summer. My favorite is the tri-color satchel with the NYC skyline silhouette across the front of the bag but every bag is winner in my book.

I personally love patent leather especially in color! So for that I turned to LANCASTER PARIS where I flipped for a very ‘60s retro chain handled bag in patent split cowhide. It’s available in two sizes but I adore the mini version and must have it in one of 11 shades but I’d settle for either turquoise or orchid. 

Lancaster's Eleven!  The Bag is Far Better Than the Movie!

 Image Credit:  Lancaster Paris

If like me, you love what Tory Burch does, then you’ll adore Lancaster’s graphic print canvas tote trimmed with cowhide. From the three colorways available I’d opt for the sophisticated cognac/yellow combo. This is one of the best looking totes around and the removable shoulder strap is an added bonus. Take this bag anywhere all season right through summer.

BOTKIER always delivers the goods and this spring is no exception. I love the ladylike pastel cowhide, chain strapped shoulder bag and the roomy box satchel. The latter looks very on trend in a stingray patterned cowhide but is offered in soft neutrals as well. Both bags feature gold tone hardware on the front flaps and turn lock closures. 

Botkier - Bags Always On Point!

Image Credit:  Botkier

That’s it for handbags but I must share with you two fantastic collections I spotted at the Accessories trade show: PANDA EYEWEAR is a line of handcrafted, eco-friendly sunglasses handcrafted from sustainable bamboo. 

Do You Feel Warmer Looking at These Glasses?  

Think How They Will Feel on Your Face Come June...

Image Credit:  Panda Eyewear

Not only are they lightweight, they’re chic as hell and for every pair sold, a pair is given to someone in need through their Gift of Vision Project.

FAUX PAS PARIS is a brand new line of jelly ballerinas. Each pair comes with a contrast color FP stamped circular button accent. 

Faux Pas Paris - No, Not Her.  The Shoes!  The Shoes!

Image Credit:  Faux Pas Paris

It’s about time that the Melissa brand of jellys got some much needed competition and these are just as cute if not more so. 

Until next time, stay warm, C&C.