Couture Jewelry with an Edge

Metal and Chains...what's the first thing that comes to mind when you see these two words together? Not what you think...but you definitely don't think of them in relation to anything couture. However, when you see these amazing creations by Laurel DeWitt, founder and owner of LaureLuxe (www.laureluxe.com), it makes all the sense in the fashion world! The Spring 2011 collection show was amazing and the jewelry? One word...STUNNING. I believe this is one of her best collections.

There is something for every woman, from head to boot or shoe. Even the men have pieces to choose from that will spice up their wardrobe. According to the designer, "Every piece is meticulously handcrafted; customized to fit the client. Created from recycled aluminum geometric shaped plating, the designs are complimented by silhouettes made of gold or silver aluminum chain, whether wrapped or draped, to define every curve. The LaureLuxe earrings pay homage to the streets of Brooklyn; each one named after a different street. Every single piece in the LaureLuxe collections are created and inspired by the local urban art scene in Brooklyn, NY. "

If you are confident, daring and fashionable, you will love her collection of haute couture metals.

Accessorize and dare to be you...I dare you!

Always in fashion,

Mary

It's Fashion Week, Are You Runway Ready?

Women's Mafia, a social event club run by fashionable, creative, and talented women and - "specially-invited" - men, hosted it's kick-off fashion week event at the Tela Hair Design Studio in the meat-packing district. The women produce a variety of events from fashion shows to disco parties, and this year's runway show featured 3 new designers: Dominique Auxilly (www.dauxilly.com); Phuong My (www.phuong-my.com) and Priestess NYC by Cody Ross (www.priestessnyc.net).

Although I was not able to stay for the main event, I was there early enough to be one of the first to enjoy the chocolate and wine tasting sponsored by ChocoVin (www.luxxchocolat.com and www.winerium.com). There were 3 different types of chocolates, all dark (which I love), and a Green Tea powdered treat along with 4 different wines that were paired to each bite-sized treat. Absolutely delicious. A true classy and unique way to get the party going! Kudos to the founder, Marcy aka "La Madrina" Clark, Partners & Senior Editors, Sonia Leix and Elisha Dang...you really put your stilettos in to this one!!

If you're looking for a new hair stylist, try Tela Design Studio, 212.463.8213, 31 Little West 12th Street, New York, NY 10014 (www.telanyc.com). The studio space is eclectic with high ceilings and fabulous atmosphere. From what I could see, because I took at peek at what the stylists were creating pre-show, the hair stylists are very talented!

Take advantage....

Mary

MEN'S FASHION - BLAC LABEL PREMIUM

FALL FASHION PREVIEW

Some of you may not be quite ready to turn in your tanks for sweaters, but the reality is...Fall is here & our bodies and closets must be on point!

For the man who can appreciate quality fashion and loves to look fly, or for the woman who shops for that special man in her life (or at least helps him coordinate his looks)..here's a taste of what the Blac Label Premium brand has to offer for the Fall and Holiday season.

What I really like about this brand is the quality and distinctive style of their garments from the fabrics to the stitching. The accessories and footwear, shirts, outerwear and denim are durable, comfortable (according to my special man and clients), and stylish. And if you're on a bit of a budget, the price points are fairly reasonable too with denim under $100 and shirts starting at $45. You can purchase online at http://blaclabelpremium.com/ or stop in select retailers in your area.

Ladies in case you're wondering if there is anything for us...Blac Label does have a nice selection of women's hoodies, dresses, jackets and bottoms to keep us warm, cozy and fabulous this Fall!

Ready, Set, Shop!

Yours in fashion...

Mary

NYC FASHION WEEK IS HERE!!!

ONCE AGAIN IT'S ON!!!

The excitement and fabulous chaos, famously known as Fashion Week, that is. Fashion's iconic brands and hottest trends will be showcased in the illustrious, historical Lincoln Center and in several hot spots throughout NYC this week.

I have been bombarded with invites, e-vites and emails with details of parties and shows from NYC to New Jersey. This year I am definitely hitting up several events that I am very anxious to see like the Women's Mafia Fashion Show, Laureluxe Jewelry Show, Nolcha Accessories & Runway Shows, IndaShio, and the Jypsea Leather Goods Trunk Show. I may also catch one of the “Fashion Night Out” events, if my feet allow. ;o)

Fashion Week definitely is not for the weak at heart, party poopers or fashion haters!! You have to be ready to network, show-hop and get less than...maybe...4 hours of sleep (or less) each night...OR the entire week (for many in the industry)!

All while looking your absolute best of course!

P.S...If you have any shows you would like to post and share…please do!!



Stay tuned!



Yours in fashion....



Mary

Catherine Malandrino Holiday/Resort 2010 Preview

I am a huge fan of Catherine Malandrino!! I received an email invitation to preview her Holiday and Resort 2010 collections yesterday, and I was blown away. Beautiful, sensual, feminine, edgy!! Though I didn't purchase any accesories or garments, I did purchase her book for $19.95. I figured it's a must-have keepsake by a world renowned designer that I will always cherish.

I met up with my friend & Celebrity Fashion Stylist, Brea Stinson aka BStar, and Roderick Gunsell, extremely talented jewelry designer. I have not seen Brea in a few years, and the two of them have not seen each other in a very long time, so it was a reunion of sorts. I was happy to bring them together again, and to see them both on an off day...though when you work in the fashion and entertainment industry...there is really no off day...or day off...it's constant networking, and seeking out new inspiration for your craft, which is all in love & fun.

If you want to treat yourself to an amazing piece of jewelry, coat, dress or handbag & are able to splurge...check out the Catherine Malandrino boutique at 652 Hudson Street at West 13th. Or..simply go and browse & try on some things...experience true luxury!

Yours in fashion,

Mary

Honey Magazine...Unofficial Launch Party

I know, I know...it's been a while since I have posted anything on this page...SHAME ON ME!!! Please forgive me...with the day-to-day of surviving, working, nurturing relationships...one in particular for me...revamping your business and/or personal life...you get the point. But I'm back, and I plan to start posting pictures...I know many people are more visual than anything...especially me...so I understand you need to see something other than text!

I attended the Honey Magazine party last night...I must say it was a very odd experience for me, because I used to work for the former publishing company that housed Honey, Heart & Soul, Savoy and impact! magazines back in 2000-2002 (it closed in 2004). Anyway, needless to say...none of my old colleagues were there...I was the lone Vanguarde alum. The venue was a trendy loft that had a bar, hair salon and art modest, basement art gallery. Very unique to say the least. The upper level where the party was, had a nice decor of tree branches, dried flowers, avant garde photos of models, some of celebrities (Cheetah Girl, Adrienne Bailon), and random garments (dress...vintage I believe) hanging elegantly & strategically from some the branches on the walls of exposed brick.

There were familiar faces...people in the fashion industry whom I've seen out & about, as well as models. The great part was open bar the entire evening, and even quaint sweet treats...mini cupcakes and cookies that were delicious. I was good...2 drinks & 1 bite-sized cupcake. I've been dieting (somewhat) and working out for the past few months 3-4 days a week. It's paying off slowly but surely.

I honestly thought I would have been able to reunite with some of my former employees, but that wasn't the case. Not sure if they knew...or just weren't interested in attending the "new" Honey party. Will I attend another of their events? Not sure...but it was great to get out & play for a bit.

I would like to style some of their shoots though...Why not? It's what I love!

DOLCE & GABBANA SAMPLE SALE

Hey fabulous folks!! One of our most popular fashion houses, DOLCE & GABBANA, is having their SAMPLE SALE TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 11am-7pm. This sale is more than one day...for more information call the Madison Avenue boutique at 212.249.4100.

Location: 125 W. 18th between 6th and 7th (Metropolitan Pavilion)

Hope you can make it!

Ciao...Always in fashion...

Mary