There really is NO fashion show like The Blonds. It’s the show I look forward to the most every season — the energy, the outfits, the trannys… it’s so much fun! And this season the queen of this scene, Amanda Lepore was there!!!
There are 3 parts to the show — the backstage, the audience, and the runway show. Yes, all shows have all three but what sets this show apart is each of these elements could be an event in and of themselves.
The theme fore this years collection: “Psycho Beach Party”. Can you hear the JAWS theme song in your head? (You will soon.)
BACKSTAGE:
So, starting with backstage, Phillipe (The Blonds ultra sexy designer and creator) is prancing around getting beautified for he/her big moment — she’s also a model or rather the star of the show.
CND’sKristina Estabrooks created the nails which consisted of an elaborate array of detailed designs including Shark Bites, skinny dip blue, and red caviar over CND Colour in Blackjack!
Seriously though, how ridic are the 3-D black shark nails???
MAC Cosmetics did the makeup focusing on the on the eyes . Working an exaggerated black liner below the lower lashes coupled with mega fake lashes on top for some extra drama.
I’m going to nerd out for a minute and confess I used to buy Archie Comic books in middle school the way I buy fashion magazines now. I was totally caught up in the whole soap opera of who Archie should pick: Betty or Veronica; and despite countless covers saying a decision would be reached, inevitably one never was. Even more embarrassing (as my mother will attest to) these two high schoolers were amongst my original list of fashion inspirations — yes, I actually was introduced to the concept of a chunky long sweater with leggings because of Betty and elements of my grunge phase was stripped from that comic book.
While it’s been well over a decade since I’ve picked up an issue for the iconic comic book series, imagine my excitement over the announcement that coming spring 2013, M·A·C Cosmetics and Archie Comics are collaborating on a full colour cosmetics collection in celebration of the iconic looks of Betty and Veronica.
The room was buzzing as the grand piano played at the presentation for NAHM, the line of Alexandra Hilfiger (daughter of you know who) and Nary Manivong. In it’s second season the duo presented a collection of boxy dresses with drop waist skirts, delicate blouses with ruffle trim, skirts with varying hemlines, in modern, youthful cuts.
Looking to the past, the duo took their inspiration from the 20’s and ancient Egypt. It was a strong showing and I loved the hieroglyphic print dresses, featuring tiny ancient Egyptians engaging in very modern activities: trimming hedges with giant shears, toting shopping bags, cruising on skateboards. The shoes, contrast platforms in coordinating prints, and black suede, were a great addition to the look.
Vintage-centic NAHM featured a “Sugared Neutral” nail with pink undertones. This color was custom blended by CND‘s Angi Wingle, but can be recreated at home by layering CND Colour in Desert Suede with one coat of CND Colour in Marshmallow Rose, topped with CND Super Matte Top Coat. Strong nude nails looked flawless with minty green wingtipped eyes by MAC and glamorous ’20s ‘dos by Aveda amidst punchy plum and eclectic green patterned fabrics.
THE M·A·C AIDS FUND announced Nicki Minaj and Ricky Martin today as its newest spokespersons for the 2012 VIVA GLAM campaign launching in February 2012. The two are currently on set in Miami shooting the campaign visuals with renowned photographer David La Chappelle (I LOVE HIM!). I can’t wait for them to be released!
To date the fund has raised $224 Million exclusively through the sale of its VIVA GLAM lip products donating 100% of the sale price to fight HIV/AIDS.
Jason Wu Fall 2011 Collection. Photo Credit: Imaxtree
I have a sweet spot for Jason Wu, not only because he’s brilliant, but also because I had the honor of attending his first runway show back in 2006; when Fashion Week was held at Bryant Park and he was the new kid on the blog. I don’t remember every detail from the show, only that I walked in not knowing who he was, and walked out with an ever-lasting impression of his work. So in 2009, when Michelle Obama choose to wear Wu for her inaugural gown, it felt like such a warranted success. I haven’t been to his show since, so I felt very fortunate enough to be able to cover his Fall/Winter 2011 fashion collection and share it will all of you!
Jason Wu Fall 2011 Collection. Photo Credit: ImaxtreeJason Wu Runway at 2011 Fall/Winter Fashion Show
For this collection, Jason Wu was inspired by the photographs taken by Robert Polidori in his book “Parcours Museologique Revister,” which documented the restoration of Versailles. As you will notice from the video (posted below), his show began with more traditional sportswear; tailored pants, and jackets then segues into evening wear, before the grand finale of this long, bright pink, silk chiffon strapless gown. While the strong change in silhouette, palette and fabrication would generally make this collection not feel so cohesive, it was the progression of his clothing and the accents of embroidery and lace he embedded within the pieces that really converged it all together. I also really like this little, black, feminine bow-tie he’s introduced.
Makeup by MAC, Nails by CND
What always stands out about Jason Wu is his attention to detail. His ability to carry over this baroque theme went beyond the clothing. We saw it in the hair, makeup, nails—all the way to the stage. He had this incredible custom runway, which looked like antique mirrors.
Roxanne Valinoti for CND created the nails for the runway show. She fashioned a gold gilded burgundy manicure using two coats of CND Dark Ruby layered with one coat of Bloodline, and gilded with Gold Chrome on the tips. To create this look at home, simply put the Gold Chrome shade on first, then apply those French Manicure stickers on the tips and paint over it with the remaining colors. Then peel the sticker off to reveal the gold tips and voila!
Makeup face chart by MAC
These manicures matched the burgundy shoes we saw on the runway and complimented the slicked back twisted low ponytails (with a flash of gold leaf accent) hair look created by Odile for Aveda.
As for the makeup, the look was created by Diane Kendal for M.A.C. Cosmetics, I mean look at this gorgeous intense gold highlighted, deeply shadowed
Inspired by Steven Meisel’s photography in the ‘90s,Laurent Philippon created simple straight lines for the hairstyle to balance the vibrant mix of colors and textures coming from Som’s collection, and the bold purple lip from MAC.Using all Bumble and Bumble products, Laurent saturated locks in ‘Prep’ prior to straightening, then flat ironed in sections, misting in ‘Does It All Styling Spray’ to create a bone straight look with a sleek middle part.
I would like to recognize Kiehl’s and M*A*C for their contribution to AIDS research today, on World AIDS Day.
KIEHL’S LIMITED EDITION HAND CARE FOR A CURE
In proud support of World AIDS Day, Kiehl’s is launching a Limited Edition Hand Care for a Cure today with 100% of the net profits to benefit amfAR. With new packaging for a limited release of their signature Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, it features a unique design of the symbolic red ribbon – worn internationally to increase public awareness of AIDS. Created out of red hand prints, this visual displays the many hands that AIDS has affected, as well as the many hands working together to find a cure. This heavy-duty moisture treatment is a thick, rich formula offering all-day care and protection to hands. Featuring a blend of select ingredients that allows skin draw and absorb water from the air, this hand salve forms a protective barrier against moisture loss.
Limited Edition Hand Care for a Cure Suggested Retail Price: 2.5 fl. oz / $12.50, available on http://www.kiehls.com
About amfAR [from amfAR.com]:
Founded in 1985, amfAR is dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research and has invested nearly $300 million in its mission and has awarded grants to more than 2,000 research teams worldwide. For additional information on amfAR, visit www.amfAR.org
M∙A∙C ‘SMIRACLES HAPPEN VIVA GLAM LIP KIT
As part of M∙A∙C’s continued commitment to AIDS research, they are donating every cent of the purchase of their Miracles Happen Viva Glam Lip Kit to the M∙A∙C AIDS Fund. This compact features lip trio Viva Glam V and VI Lipsticks, and Viva Glam V Lip Gloss. The set is part of their holiday collection, and truly is the gift that keeps on giving.
Miracles Happen Viva Glam Lip Kit Suggested Retail Price: $22.50, available on www.maccosmetics.com
About M∙A∙C AIDS Fund:
Established in 1994 by M·A·C Cosmetics, the M·A·C AIDS Fund supports men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS globally. Introducing its first
On September 10th, Anna Wintour’s plan to save the fashion industry came to life when NYC gathered for Fashion’s Night Out. Every retailer from all five boroughs was encouraged to join in the celebration. Anna Wintour affirmed her commitment to the boroughs involvement by pledging to kick off the evening at Macy’s in Queens, alongside Michael Kors. With over 700 retailers participating in the festivities, I had a whole lot of invitations with no idea what to expect or how to pace the night.
