CALIFORNIA STATE POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY, POMONA

Fashion Society Newsletter

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

This issue has a special thanks to Red Bull, the Farm Store at Kellogg Ranch and ASI for making

donations to Runway Revolution and Fashion Society.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Table of Contents

TENTATIVE SPRING QUARTER CALENDAR

Saturday, April 2nd- Silent Auction Pizza and Wine in

Venice 6-9pm *Purchase tickets online from Upper Class

Label $10.00

Tuesday, April 5- First meeting of quarter: Membership

fees, calendar, and newsletter. Distribute information

about officer positions.

Thursday, April 7- Movie of fashion show, distribute & sell fashion show DVD. Location TBD.

Tuesday, April 12th- Maria: Jewelry Workshop &

Nominations for officer positions

Tuesday, April 19th- Alumni Guest Speaker Sara

Friday, April 22nd- FIDM Art of Motion Picture Costume

Design Exhibition at FIDM’s Museum & Galleries

Tuesday, April 26th- Nominations & Candidate Speeches.

Tuesday, May 3rd- Elections and Vote

Tuesday, May 10th

- Parise: Tea dying workshop

Tuesday, May 17th

–Daniel Marrone Make-up Workshop

Friday, May 20th- Moca: Rodarte-States of Matter

Tuesday, May 24th

- Last meeting of the quarter.

Saturday, May 28th

- AMM Banquet and Fashion Society

awards ceremony.

Runway Revolution ………………………. 3-11

Project Ethos: Carpe Diem………………… 12-20

Trends: Spring/Summer 2011…………….. 21-23

Joie de Vivre! ……………………………… 24-25

Journey to Minimalist Forest……………… 25-26

Letter from the Editor:

Dear Readers,

This issue is filled with many fashion finds: trends, fashion icons, designers, and fashion

show recaps that will blow you away! The Fashion Society team worked endless hours to

put on our first annual, Runway Revolution, which featured a fashion show, industry mixer

and pop-up boutique. We had over 300 people attend and it was a great night filled with

innovative designs, amazing music, and lots of fashionistas and fashionistos.

Fashion Society also got its first invites to LA Fashion Week to cover Project Ethos’ Carpe

Diem fashion event and Costella & Donola’s fashion show. Not only has this year been

groundbreaking, but Fashion Society has created a solid brand image and identity in the

fashion realm.

Thank you to Alejandra Parise, all the F.S. officers, volunteers, models, designers, families,

sponsors, and attendees for making Fashion Society’s event such a huge success!

Sincerely,

Mai Vang President, Producer & Chief Editor

♀ Join Fashion Society Today! ♪ Art ♥ Photography ♫ Film ♂ Design Social Media Writing Fashion Music

Cultivate Your Fashion Interests by Joining!

Contact Fashion Society for story ideas

and coverage of fashion exhibits, runway

shows and more!

Email: fashion.society@hotmail.com

Website:

http://thefashionsocietycpp.blogspot.com/

Twitter: FashionAtCPP

Facebook: Fashion Society

2

Fashion society’s First annual runway revolution

By: Mai Vang

Cal Poly Pomona’s Fashion Society has been high on the radar with the launch of their website, e-

newsletter, and recent fashion rendezvous, Runway Revolution this past year. Fashion Society is in its

second year as a non-profit organizational club at Cal Poly and already the club has managed to double its

membership, network with rising fashion icons: Chriselle Lim and Daniel Marrone, inform their members

of the latest fashions on the runway each season, as well as covering the gaps between education and the

coveted fashion industry.

Runway Revolution occurred on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at Cal Poly Pomona’s Bronco Student Center in

Ursa Major. The venue was very institutional, but with the help of a few tablecloths, portable projector screen, a handful of lights, a runway and music to set the tone- the venue were transformed into an intoxicating and fabulous location fit for a fashion event. The night started off with an industry mixer and boutique pop-up which accumulated such exhibitors as Upper Class Label, Bldg 45 Boutique, Large and In Charge, Tukatech, AIMS, Rebel Candy Designs, Lola Paige, Melrose East, Lunzia, Lil’ Lou Lou, Savvy Lee, LivJewels, Red Bull, Susa Boutique, the Apparel Merchandising and Management department, Rey Swimwear, and Gorditas Y Que! Accessories. This was a great opportunity for students

and attendees to not only shop, but mingle and network with industry professionals for internships and job opportunities.

Photos by Shelby Johns.Top left to right: Gorditas Y Que! Accessories and Lil’ Lou Lou. Bottom left to right: Tukatech representatives and Lily Duenas, Patty Mutz, and Linda Tucker.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

3

Photos by Shelby Johns. Left to right: Upper Class Label and Rey Swimwear

The fashion show was hosted by Fashion Society’s club advisor, Alejandra Parise, who is also a lecturer in the Apparel Merchandising and Management department at Cal Poly Pomona and a lecturer at Mount San Antonio College. The fashion show featured eleven local and upcoming apparel and accessories designers: Maria Bougioukos, Livie Mota, Jessica Rey, Los Angeles Raw Water, Savannah Crawford, Lola Paige, Nicole Ghiglieri, Ashley Taddei, Pabai Vang, Lindsay Hannan, and Basil Malicsi. Maria Bougioukos is a Cal Poly Pomona

student majoring in Landscape Architecture and

is the founder of Rebel Candy Designs. Maria’s

jewelry and accessories line was custom made to

complement the apparel designers’ showcasing

in the fashion show. The collection that Maria

showed was an eclectic mix of designs that had

unique materials, such as newspaper, plastic,

glass beads, cardboard, lace, and ribbons.

Maria’s Website: www.rebelcandydesigns.com

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

MARCH 2011

4

1

Livie Mota is an accessories designer that also debuted in the fashion show during Runway

Revolution. Livie is the founder of LivJewels, which provides custom-made accessories and jewelry for the everyday woman. Livie’s designs range from very basic and traditional to trendy and high fashion designs. For the collection shown at Runway Revolution, Livie pre-made designs that were hand-picked and styled for Lola Paige.

Livie’s Website: www.livjewels.com

Rey Swimwear

Jessica Rey is the designer of Rey Swimwear and is a “television actress best known for her role as the white

power ranger on Power Rangers Wild Force. Some of the shows she’s guest starred on include Las Vegas, Rules of Engagement, and General Hospital. Rey Swimwear debuted in Fashion Society’s Runway Revolution as a hip and 1950’s inspired collection that the designer quotes, “is inspired by Audrey Hepburn-a woman whose classic style has transcended time and continues to influence fashion today”. Jessica’s collection consisted of one and two piece bathing suits with solids, polka dot, cherry, and paisley prints in figure-flattering designs. The color palette for Jessica’s collection included yellow, white, black, teal, yellow, red, and navy. The swim suits were styled with an assortment of bracelets, necklaces, sunglasses, neutral-colored wedges, a floppy sunhat or floral tote. The two-piece swim suits featured sweetheart neck lines, knot detailing in the bodice, halter tops,

boy shorts, and hipster bottoms. Rey Swimwear Website: http://reyswimear.3dcartstores.com/

Models (left to right): Lisa Bell, Tokkie Adeniji with Jessica Rey & Susanna Beliakoff

Photos by Tony Espinas & June Nicole Photography

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

5

Los Angeles Raw Water

Los Angeles Raw Water is a lifestyle apparel line that was founded to express unspoken “interests, visions, and political views that were lacking in the world of fashion”. The collection showcases styles and designs that could easily be worn casually during the day and dressed up to go out at night. The collection consisted of uniquely screen printed t-shirts, tanks, hoodies, and embroidered cardigans that were styled with dark-wash jeans and everyday tennis shoes like Converse, Toms, and Pumas. Raw Water’s color palette consisted mainly of black, gray, white, and red, which created a strong statement in its apparel and proved to be very versatile. L.A. Raw Water’s Website: www.rawwater.net

Models (left to right): Jamie Kidd, Luis Carmona, Natalia Jenkins, and Michael Balotta

Savvy Lee

Savannah Crawford is a Cal Poly Pomona student majoring in Apparel Merchandising and Management and she has been sewing since she was 14 years old. Her collection “was inspired by getting back to basics. The pieces are inspired by t-shirts and their comfort”. The collection was made by using ordinary t-shirts and transforming it into something chic, trendy, and sexy. The opening look was a t-shirt with a cut-off neckline and leggings; this look was styled with a headpiece and necklace by Rebel Candy Designs. Another style seen on the runway

was a purple one-shouldered dress with a braided waist tie that was paired with pink printed tights and a bandeau bra; this style was also accessorized with a necklace by Rebel Candy Designs. Other styles included a pink tube top paired with a blue bubble skirt, green halter top dress, and a printed pink baby doll top with green lounge shorts. The last look that was shown for Savvy Lee was a multi-colored dress with a keyhole detail below the bust and above the navel.

Models: (left to right) Lauren Rosas, Tokkie Adeniji, Briana Hoyos, and Maria Gardner

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

6

Lola Paige

Lola Paige is a signature brand that was established by five designers and alumni from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandise: Thien Crisanto, Laura Diaz, Marjorie Portillo, Kimchi Ngo, and Jessica O’hara. The theme for Lola Paige’s dress collection is “Beachy Vintage” and is unique for its ability to be worn form the beachside to a night out on the town. The first look down the runway was a mini-dress with a beige, salmon, and speckles of blue floral print; this look was styled with nude heels and a floppy sunhat. The next look down the runway was a striped tank paired with a tiered floral print skirt; this look was styled with a tan belt, gold bracelet, and wedges. Next up was an off white strapless dress with ruffle detailing across the top of the bodice

and at the hem, this dress was styled with a thin tan belt which accentuated the waist and completed the look for a day at the beach. The next look on the runway was a beige and floral long button-down shirt that could easily be used as a beach cover-up; this look was styled with a pearl necklace and flower in the model’s hair. Also seen on the runway for Lola Paige was dresses one in off white with an empire waist and ruffle detailing in the bodice, another was a vintage floral strapless dress with gathering at the waist that is styled with a simple pendant necklace and calf-length boots. The color palette for Lola Paige’s collection included shades of white, blue, yellow, and blue. The designers used a variety of prints such as paisley ad floral to create their beachy-

vintage inspired collection. Website: www.facebook.com/lolapaigeclothing

Models (left to right): Susanna Beliakoff, designers Laura Diaz and Thien Crisanto with model Courtney Alberi,

& Renee Roberts

NG Fashion Design

Nicole Ghiglieri is a sophomore at Cal Poly Pomona majoring in Apparel Merchandising and Management. Nicole has been sewing since the seventh grade and she is from the Bay are so a lot of her work is influenced by the free-spirited lifestyle and pairing city elements with natural characteristics. Nicole’s collection titled, Northern Lights, is influenced by natural elements and represents her desire to find peace in the high paced

world of fashion. The color palette for Nicole’s collection includes shades of brown, black, white, orange, white, metallic silver and lime green. Nicole’s collection included an assortment of uniquely designed gowns, dresses, outerwear jackets and coats, wraps, blouses, handbags, and trousers. From faux fur to wool, leather, cotton, and lace the collection definitely showed a sweet, subtle combination paired with natural, rugged and edgy elements. Prints that were seen on the runway for Nicole included stripes, cheetah print, abstract, and plaid. Styles that Nicole debuted on the runway included a maxi-skirt with a cropped top, lace striped skirt paired with a neutral blouse, leather jacket with a black fringe dress, striped skirt with a shawl-like shrug, princess dress in a

shiny mauve and lime green, fitted trousers with pleat detailing, and a one-shouldered dress with floral detailing on the shoulder strap.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

7

NG Fashion DesignWebsite: http://nicoleghiglierifashion.tumblr.com/

Models (left to right): Denise Salceda, designer Nicole Ghiglieri with model Mary Nordine, Viviana Hoyos, and Kelly Martin

Photographs by Shelby Johns and June Nicole Photography Ashley Taddei

Ashley Taddei describes her collection as “bold, yet silent, romantic yet ideal, edgy yet practical” and was created by “mixing elements of contemporary design of transparency, layers and repetition patterns with the romanticism of textured fabric, lace, and soft colors”. The color palette for Ashley’s collection included rich black, white, and gold. Fabrics that were commonly seen throughout Ashley’s collection included eyelet and

lace in both black and white. Styles that Ashley showcased on the runway included a black transparent maxi-skirt, lace bolero, cropped sleeveless raglan top, lace leggings, a three-quarter lace dress in off white with a scoop neckline, high-waisted lace shorts, and a metallic gold scoop neck blouse.

Models (Left to right): Linda Higgins, Lauren Rosas, designer Ashley Taddei with Linda Higgins

Photos by Shelby Johns.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

8

Pabai Vang

Pabai Vang is a student at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and her collection was inspired by the 2012 Apocalypse. Her designs are influenced by the colors seen in nature and throughout her collection she “wanted to contrast the silhouettes of soft and strong to create a disastrous appeal, such as using a medium weight wool fabric in combination with a soft netting fabric”. Pieces from Pabai’s collection include two high-fashion magazine-fabricated corsets paired with fitted skinny jeans, a strapless dress, a one-shouldered structured dress with tulle spanning out on the side, and a princess dress with puff sleeves in brown. Other styles include a sweetheart neckline, strapless dress with drape detailing at the waist and a one-shouldered dress

with a transparent, abstract print in black and teal. The last look for Pabai was a beautiful, black, couture, ruffle-tiered dress with a plunging neckline. The color palette for Pabai’s collection included shades of black, white, bronze, orange, brown, and teal.

Models: Julia Straszewski, designer Pabai Vang with model Alexis Goebel, Courtney Alberi

Lunzia

Lindsay Hannan is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology and has over eight years of designing under her belt. Lindsay Hannan’s collection, Lunzia, is “inspired by freedom, love of life, and the revolution of women becoming strong individuals of the 1920’s and 1930’s. The look of the line consists of fine silks, beaded

fabrics, beautiful jerseys, knits, and lace with crystal and feather accents”. The color palettes for Lindsay’s line include teal, peach pink, black, white, brown and gray. The line is versatile, in which there are apparel pieces that can be worn several ways, such as a shawl that turns in to a hood and the line is eco-friendly with natural dyes. The first look of the night for Lindsay was a v-neck beaded blouse that was paired with a peach flared skirt. Other styles for Lindsay include wide-leg trousers with a teal ribbon waistline paired with a neutral printed camisole and black, versatile shrug turned shawl, a black dress with transparent stripes, a one shouldered black dress with gold detailing on the strap, and neckline-embellished cocktail dress paired with black stockings and a clutch. Lindsay also showed a silk printed dress with a shawl neckline made of wool and cinched at the

waist with a ribbon tie. Lindsay also showcased gray Harlem pants with a keyhole knit top and peach-colored shawl that turns into a hood, a blouse with batwings was paired with a maxi-skirt in peach, and the final look of the night was a spaghetti strap silk dress with a beautiful train with beaded lace and trim.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

9

Lindsay Hannan’sWebsite: http://www.lindsayelisa.com/

Models (left to right): Savannah Crawford, Audrey Wang, and Danee Berumen

Models: Briana Ho & Cristina Mendoza

Photos by Mike Hari

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

10

Basil Malicsi

Basil Malicsi is a senior at California State University of Long Beach majoring in Fashion Design and Merchandising. The theme of Basil’s collection “is all about exotic, bold, vibrant colors combines with prints and flowy silhouettes- Resort Island girl style!” Basil states that “the inspiration is taken from all my trips to Thailand, Indonesia, and around the Philippines. I’m inspired by the colors, and prints of ethnic art and I try to apply them in soft organic silk fabrics that I source out from my travels”. The color palette that Basil used for his collection includes abstract prints with splashes of green, blue, pink, and yellow. Basil’s collection included dresses, blouses, trousers, and gowns that were sure to catch anyone’s attention with its sparkle, ethnic prints

and glamorous styling. Styles that were seen on the runway included metallic gold, wide-leg trousers paired with an abstract printed blouse, and a one-shouldered cocktail dress in metallic pink with a flared sleeve. Also seen on the runway were a yellow and green ethnic print dress with a beautiful train and sweetheart neckline and a one-shouldered teal dress with a light weight train that flowed down the runway. Basil closed the show with a beautiful yellow gown with a plunging v-neckline, train, and excess fabric flowing from the top of the shoulders down the back of the dress. The collection was sensual, sexy, and sophisticated. Website: http://www.atelierbasil.com/

Models (left to right): Lisa Bell, Kelly Martin, and Julia Straszewski

The entire event was sponsored by Tukatech, a renowned world leading patternmaking and design software company specializing in computer aided designs. Fashion Society also partnered up with the Cao Institute, a Paul Mitchell partner school in Alhambra, to do hair and make-up for the fashion show. Free giveaway for VIP guests included a Tukatech tote bag, designer index, coupon to the Farm Store, Red Bull energy shot, water bottle, Fashion Society brochure, and CPP merchandise from ASI Beat. From the venue to music and culminating fashion show, the event was a huge success that brought in almost 400 people in attendance,

bringing together families, friends, students, and fashion industry professionals into one location to rejoice in our love of fashion.

Special Thanks to:

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

11

L.A. Fashion Week with Project Ethos By: Mai Vang

Project Ethos’s fashion event, Carpe Diem, on March 12th was a night full of free Vitamin Water Zero, music,

art, and of course, fashion. Fashion Society officers attended the event and were intrigued by the fine details

and impeccable designs.

The evening opened up with the VIP lounge which was sponsored by Absolut Vodka and Tasty Cups supplied

delicious cupcakes for buyers, the media, and attendees. The cupcakes were all hand-made with organic

ingredients and flavors ranged from. The meet and greet lasted an hour, then the crowd started to mix and

mingle between the runway seating and upstairs to where the art exhibits were displayed. Amongst the many

artists who debuted their works of art at Carpe Diem included Lucia Loiso Photography, Gary Lockwood for

“Freehand Profit”, Christopher Hernandez Photography, and Justine Serebrin. While at the event, I was able to

interview Justine Serebrin about her collection of the senses and she says that the collection was inspired by

“passion, playfulness and childhood”. Justine has been working on this collection for two years and was proud

to display her works of art during LA’s Fashion Week as a part of Project Ethos’ Carpe Diem. Justine’s favorite

piece is titled “I’m the best dancer I know” and is a mixed media which is a combination of watercolor, acrylic,

collage, India ink, chalk pastel, and body paint on dura-lar to create this masterpiece. Justine quotes that this

piece “should be as magical and colorful as we make it”. Justine’s work of arts can be viewed and purchased at

her website: www.justineserebrin.com.

Artist: Justine Serebrin Artist: Lucia Loiso Photo by: Mai Vang Photo by: Mai Vang

After visiting the artist realm, my assistant and I moved to the fashion show, where amongst ten to fifteen other

media and press coverage, we had to literally stand our ground to get a “good position” at the end of the runway.

Not only that, but the fashion show was delayed and guests were left to awkwardly mingle amongst themselves.

This however, gave plenty of time for photographers alongside me to get plenty of shots of the Vitamin bottles

glowing at the end of the runway and capture, or I should say take in the beautiful venue; where intricately

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

12

sculptured pillars opened up the runway and the combination of spot lighting, accent lighting, and upbeat music

created a colorful atmosphere that coincided with the overall theme of the show, “Carpe Diem” or “Seize the

day!”.

The fashion show opened with musical artist, The Robotanists, an upcoming indie band that sang songs from

their third album, Plans in Progress. The band was alive with enthusiasm, soul, and a musical ensemble that

took the audience away with its energy, distinct sounds, and captivating tunes. After the Robotanists left the

runway, there was the Vitamin Water’s Flavor Fashionista Challenge where five of the seven showcasing

designers competed for a $3,000 prize of a either a sewing station or new laptop. The five designers were given

the task of designing an outfit that represented one of the Vitamin Water flavors and the audience texted in votes

to decide the winner of the challenge.

Designers: Dominique Ansari (yellow), Reneta J (white/red), Age of Aquarius (brown)

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

13

Designers: Ermelinda Manos (pink), Melissa Velia (red)

Fredericks of Hollywood

After the introduction of the Vitamin Water Fashionista Challenge, the lights dimmed down and the runway was

lit as the music started pumping and Fredericks of Hollywood showcased their first ever, swim wear collection.

The models strutted down the catwalk with red and white striped beach balls that were tossed into the audience

for a chance to win a free pair of swimwear at the end of the show. From sexy solids, to animal prints, and

glitter, the entire collection was breath-taking. Fredericks of Hollywood definitely created a whole new

definition for sexy and showed style with a lot of flair with its itty bitty swimsuits.

Cardiwrap

Cardiwrap by Kymaro is a multi-styled wrap sure to dress up or dress down any ordinary outfit. With over 50 ways to wear the wrap, it is equipped with its own set of brooches, bows, bangles, and clasps to effectively

enhance any outfit. The Cardiwrap can be worn as a tunic, halter, and shawl, off the shoulder, v-neck, cardigan, scoop neck, shrug, hoodie, one-shouldered, cowl neck, choker, or worn as a scarf. As the models strutted down the catwalk, they quickly slipped out a brooch, clasp, bow or bangle loose to show the versatility of the Cardiwrap and its ability to be styled a multitude of ways.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

14

Melissa Velia

Next down the catwalk was Melissa Velia’s collection, it opened with a dark and distraught prima-ballerina who

pirouetted, turned, and sautered down the runway. The collection included basics with a trendy twist such as a bateau neckline, silk top with contrasting black hemmed sleeves paired with a pencil shirt, another look that was shown was a reddish purple blouse with bow detailing at the base of the neck that was styled with a pencil skirt. Another example of Melissa’s fine tailoring and styling shone in another look which dressed up an ordinary black camisole with a prime-rose print in black and white, styled with layers of pearls and a silver belt to accentuate the waist. The color palette of Melissa’s collection included whites, blacks, and shades of purple which screamed glamour, sophistication, and casual elegance. Melissa’s design for the Flavor Fashionista Challenge was a floor-length strapless yellow dress with shirring on the sides and a vintage print with gold

threading was used for the bodice.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

15

Reneta J

Reneta J’s collection was upbeat, trendy, and full of attitude, not just in the clothing, but its full effect was felt with the models’ hair and make-up which was styled by Carlton Hair Salon. The elements of Reneta’s

collection that made it sexy and trendy were its impeccable color palette of red, pink, white and black. From tailored blazers and cardigans to, figure-flattering dresses that were easily styled with leggings, fishnets, or tights made the collection both fashionable and functional. For the Flavor Fashionista Challenge, Reneta designed a red and white full-length asymmetrical dress with a unique waist tie that also functioned at the one-shouldered dress strap. The white gown with the red tie-dye affect at the bottom of the hem created visual interest and was beautifully executed.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

16

Age of the Aquarius

The Age of Aquarius collection by designer Kristi Moon is not only hip and comfortable, but the brand is eco-friendly. According to the Age of Aquarius website, all the designs are “cut from sustainable, recycled and

organic textiles, dipped in rich, yet classic hues of low impact dyes…Manufactured in the city of Angles, in support of the U.S. economy and garment industry, there’s no child slave laboring overseas”. The materials and fabrication of the collection makes it distinct with such fabrics as bamboo velour in the jumpsuits, a mix of cotton and bamboo spun into fleece for the Marsha three quarter trench coat with the matching tie belt and the Marian shirred bib neckline with puffed sleeves and extended rib cutoff in black which is made with 100% micro bamboo jersey. For the design challenge, Kristi designed a cotton and bamboo French terry riding hood jacket with a shawl collar, patch pockets, and long sleeves with ribbed cuffs and a princess seam in the gingerbread color.

Dominique Ansari

Dominique Ansari’s collection was very trendy and fun with its different mix of colors such as black, cream, navy, aqua, gray, red, and burgundy. From cropped and fitted shrugs and cardigans to party dresses and full-length gowns, the designs had great tailoring and fine draping. First down the runway was the gray Pixie dress,

a one-shouldered asymmetrical mini-dress with draping detailing in the skirt and strap. Also seen on the runway was a modern take on a one-piece jumpsuit with spaghetti tie straps and knee-length trousers in an aqua color. Another look was a strapless empire waist dress styled with a shrug also in aqua which created a long and lean silhouette. Lastly, the Flavor Fashionista Challenge dress that Dominique designed was a ruby red strapless dress with too much detailing in the bodice and waist, which created the illusion of a girdle with a train flowing underneath.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

17

Ermelinda Manos

Ermelinda Manos’ collection followed Age of Aquarius and her collection took fashion to a whole new level with figure-hugging designs, animal prints, and sexy silhouettes. The color palette for Ermelinda’s collection

included royal blue, yellow, pink, and black. The distinct materials and fabrics that Ermelinda used included fringe, cheetah animal print, lace, leather, and silk. The dresses had deep plunging v-necks and ranged from full-length to mid-thigh length dresses that revealed too much, not just the wearer’s legs, but the plunging necklines barely covered the bust! Despite its fine tailoring and impeccable designs, Ermelinda’s line came short of success when she hiked up the hemlines and plunged the necklines too far which made the collection not versatile at all. On the other hand, the dress that Ermelinda designed for the Flavor Fashionista Challenge had to be one of my favorite designs because of its femininity and girly feel with the use of lace and the tiered skirt that flounced from a sweetheart neckline in pink.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

18

Seth Aaron Henderson

Seth Aaron Henderson’s collection was the last collection of the night and the audience waited eagerly to see what new styles and trends he would be introducing. Seth’s collection included a mix of solids in red, black,

purple and white, with the use of a distinguished houndstooth pattern and unique shoes by MsWoodBoutique.com. Such styles that were seen on the runway included Seth’s white and black cotton houndstooth dress, gray wool coat, white twill tuxedo jacket with lambskin lapels, black quilted and wool dress, purple wool day dress, and red wool pencil dress.

At the end of the fashion show, DJ Yolanda Be Cool took the night away by spinning his intrinsic mixes and

world-popular single, “We speak no Americano”.

The event was sponsored by Vitamin Water Zero, Carlton Hair, Cardiwrap, Absolut, Tasty Cups, and Fredericks

of Hollywood. It was a great night to mix, mingle, and rejoice in the beauty of fashion.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

19

Overall, Project Ethos is one of few fashion productions who have opened their fashion events to the public and

it has not only been successful in reaching all facets of the fashion industry, but the company has really created a

name for itself. With its broad spectrum of music, art, and fashion, Project Ethos is talent incubator for many

aspiring artists, designers, and musicians. Carpe Diem was a great event to attend; the Project Ethos team pulled

together a great venue, atmosphere, and showcased outstanding designers. The event left any attendee inspired

and anticipating the upcoming Fall/Winter season designs.

Left to right: Lisa Bell, Art Delgadillo, Mai Vang, Nadine Samarin, Jennifer Mapote, Emma Loekmono

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

20

Fashion Trends

Spring/Summer 2011

By: Nadine Samarin

Hurray! It’s that time again to shed those sweaters and wool coats and bare those arms and legs! We have some

really fun and different trends forecasted for the spring. So sit back, relax and soak up some of those

wonderfully warm rays of sunshine while looking fashionable.

Some key looks for the spring are 70’s chic, biker, punk fashion and 60’s ladylike.

Move aside military look and welcome the biker girl. This is all about buckles, silver-colored material, and

zippers.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

21

You can’t go wrong with punk fashion. Wear

zippers, safety pins, heavy boots, and studs. If

you have any unwanted clothing, just cut it up;

add safety pins and you have a whole new punk

outfit.

Take a trip back into the 60’s with these outfits.

Below the knee, full, circle skirts are the new

miniskirt. Cinch the waist with a wide belt and

wear sexy, kitten heels and you have a

fashionable 60’s outfit. Other styles include, full

skirted dresses, the straight-dress silhouette, and

cat eyeglasses.

The 70’s chic has always been in and out of

fashion and there have been many variations of

styles. This time it’s more focused on 70’s

sophistication. This includes high-waisted pants

with a belt and tucked in flowy shirts with a vest

over it. Think clean lines, flowy, yet controlled

looks. At night feel free to show a little more

skin and go for a tighter fit, or sexy draping. It’s

all about looking chic, sophisticated, and sexy

with a 70’s vibe.

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

22

There are some new fabric patterns that are

making a big hit. Some of these trends include

lace, crochet and macramé, tassels, sheer maxi

dresses, and stripes.

Some key items in the trends this season are

bell-bottoms, wide-leg pants, Capri pants, tail

hems, jumpsuits, and crop tops.

Men’s spring/summer fashions have had a makeover too. Move over skinny jeans and welcome flared jeans!

Don’t worry, skinny jeans will still be in stores, but the 70’s vibe has influenced men’s clothing as well as

women’s. The motorcycle fashions hit men’s clothing as well. The leather biker jacket is a must have for this

upcoming season.

Trend Source: http://www.fashionising.com/trends/b--spring-2011-fashion-trends-spring-summer-2011-

4073.html#spring2011looks

MARCH 2011

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

23

Joie de vivre! By: Art Delgadillo

I vividly remember the allure I felt when coming across Isabella Blow, “Issy”, on several of my late night

fashion researches. I was a teenager desperately seeking clarity and fashion brought that, albeit, I knew nothing!

Not how the industry worked, who was who or even what role I wanted to play in it. The things I did know was

that mystery, magic, and beauty was uniquely exemplified in this particular individual, Issy. Her ensembles

were otherworldly, often combining unconventional elements, a skill that only an aesthetic connoisseur could

master! She made me dream of a utopian-like life where the struggles of realities were replaced with fabulous

clothes and intoxicating designs. However, I recognized a free spirit in myself and in the designs that Issy

concocted, which I believe is an essential characteristic that allows individuals to express themselves. Issy was

coveted as one of fashion’s eccentrics and international style icons of all time and she brings joy and smiles wi th

her joie de vivre attitude.

Issy’s early years were filled with emotional and

psychological dysfunction. Her only brother

drowned in the family’s pool at age two, her

parents separated and later divorced, and then her

mother erased herself out of the picture after the

divorce. Issy’s relationship with her father was

poor and probably a factor that she never

recovered from which could have led up to her

death. However, one can only speculate.

Issy injected herself in the fashion world by

working for Guy Laroche in Texas. She married

her first husband Nicholas Taylor, who introduced

her to Anna Wintour. Then Issy was hired as

Anna’s assistant and then she wounded up

working for Andre Leon Talley. She later returned

to London and worked as an editor for the English

magazine Tatler, which focused on the lifestyle

and glamorous lives of the elite.

Issy is notorious for discovering and cultivating memorable talents and is credited for discovering Stella

Tennant, Sophie Dahl, Phillip Treacy, Alexander McQueen, and Hussein Chalayan. Of these discoveries, both

Mr. Treacy and McQueen are the most notable. It was reported that Issy fell in love with McQueen and

purchased his entire graduate collection. The bond between the three was highly palpable. Mr. Treacy made Issy

his muse and McQueen’s Spring 2008 prêt-a-porter collection was collaboration between McQueen and Treacy

in memory of Issy. She was more than just their mentor; she pushed them creatively, cultivated their talent, and

most importantly, she promoted their designs by gallavating in their innovated designs. After all, Issy’s

quintessential outfit did include a chic dress with her showcasing of intricate hats!

MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

24

Although much satisfaction can be gained from having discovered several top models and influential designers, Issy’s personal life spiraled downward. In the early 2000’s she revealed in an interview that she was ill and needed medication to calm her down. She spoke ambiguously then but it was later revealed that she did in fact

suffer from depression. Her depression is believed to have catapulted for an array of reasons. First, she felt she did not have a home in the industry that she influenced. Second, when the Gucci group bought out the McQueen brand she received a dress while everyone else acquired contracts. Third, she was infertile. Fourth, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and received Electro Shock Therapy (EST), and was later diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. Clearly, life circumstances were getting the best of her.

In 2006 she revealed to her close friends that she had become suicidal.

Her methods of suicide included: overdose of sleeping pills, jumping from a bridge resulting in broken ankles, car accidents, horse tranquilizers, and by drowning in a lake while overdosed. Isabella Blow was finally successful at suicide in the middle of 2007; she excused herself from a weekend party to go “shopping” and was later discovered dead by her sister. It was reported she drank a weed killer and died soon after. Her funeral was held in Gloucester Cathedral on May 15, 2007 with a memorial in London where Anna Wintour spoke at her

service. It is interesting to see intriguing individuals in the fashion world and other industries for that matter that bring great inspiration and talent to the table, then vanish and end their fantasies prematurely. Early 2010 was also the year that Issy’s long time friend, Alexander “Lee” McQueen committed suicide. It is also speculated that Lee suffered a form of

depression. Perhaps a lesson learned from these two victims is to help a friend out if anything seems symptomatic of an imbalance.

“a journey into the MiniMalistic Forest”

By: Art Delgadillo

Minimalism, fragility, and delicacy are not words typical of L.A. Fashion Week collections, yet IDNYC

Spring/Summer 2011 by Isabelle Donola captured just that! Isabelle Donola along with Luciana Ellington at their prominently located boutique in West Hollywood off Melrose showcased IDNYC along with a behind the scenes photo shoot where guests were able to witness a photographer snap models for editorials. Along with the photo shoot, there was a fashion show and a shopping opportunity where 50% of the proceeds went to the Peace Over Violence Organization. Peace over Violence is “a non-profit, feminist, multicultural, volunteer

organization dedicated to building healthy relationships, families and communities free from sexual, domestic and interpersonal violence” (peaceoverviolence.org). It was a wet and chilly Sunday evening as I made my way to West Hollywood. The invitation announced 6pm as the starting time and at roughly 8:45pm the show finally began. I understand the need for being “fashionably late” as some of us spend more thought and time on ensembles however a nearly 3-hour wait was just ridiculous! I wonder how they would feel if they had to wait nearly 3 hours for a fashion show, the boutique itself was well lit and suitably filled. Dark wood pallets that were mounted on the walls served as display areas, there were tree elements used for display, and at the very back was a brown construction paper

project in which it was cut and held to give an unclear shirred look. Clothes hung from a metal bar suspended from the ceiling with accent lighting throughout the space.

MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

25

The collection itself consisted of 18 looks with a color palette dominated by neutrals: white linens, sheer blacks, crisp browns, and an earthy flax; with splashes of apple green, silky teal, mint, wine reds, and chocolate browns. There were body-conscious silhouettes, drapery details, bubble skirts, separates to pair with your own pieces,

and beautifully eclectic hats by Anita Hopkins. The make-up consisted of a clean face with a bold lip and eyelid in tones of oranges and pinks. The hair was long, down, and texturized with volume, creating a haunting look. Donola focused on line, albeit sometimes languid, and fabrics! Fabrics varied from crisp linens, rich silks, and wools. Some fabrics were so sheer and luxurious that they looked very fragile and delicate. Hemlines ranged from modest below the knee to mid-thigh.

The first look was a white stretchy fitted dress with a turtleneck whose length was modest at below the knee paired with a flax Little Red Riding Hood pullover and nude heels. Clean, minimalistic and with a Little Red

Riding Hood reference it was wearable and chic! One standout piece was the fifth look: a flax form-fitting bias cut dress (reminiscent of Mr. Galliano’s trademark) whose cut was just above the knee with a quaint ruffle on the back beginning from the right shoulder down to the left hip, Lanvin much? Although feminine in silhouette the fabrication was a much more masculine one and thus had a harder edge effect. The next look was a stunning black sheer-chiffon shift dress. It was effortlessly crafted and delicate with the choice of chiffon. The dress, paired with black pumps had a scoop neckline. The model wore nude undergarments and no accessories; but if the consumer is not creative they may struggle translating the look to off the catwalk. Perhaps a black John

Patrick Organic slip-on will suffice? The soundtrack to the collection was a mix of an ambiance cinematic tunes that slipped me into a state of trance and made the world of this woman all the more palpable. On the other end, however, I questioned the wear ability and end use of some pieces. For instance, out came an A-line dress, mid thigh hemline, ¾ sleeves, with a draped scarf neckline. The dress was flowy, easy, and giving. The problem was the back. It gathered to create appeal, I suppose, however when I saw the models bum it certainly did not feel finished and/or well thought out. And quite frankly it looked sloppy; adding insult to injury

it was also subtly sheer. Now judging from the other sheer pieces, clearly, this woman is bold, gutsy and in shape, my problem was the exposed bum and lack of craftsmanship/end result quality on this particular piece. Luckily, the Little Red Riding Hood motif continued throughout the pieces in the hoods, shapes, and overall feel creating cohesion and consistency. The collection felt fresh and clean. It reminded me of Mr. Costa’s ongoing minimalism aesthetic for Calvin Klein. I must applaud their use of colored models. While shows all over the world continue to not include colored models, Donola used at least 50% colored models! In addition, their choice of venue could not have

been any better. Their small and intimate boutique was the catwalk in which guests sat no more than 1-2 feet distance from the models. As the models sashayed past me I could see the garments, the fabrics, and seams! Although not common for shows to be this private, it took me back to the articles and stories I have read on historical fashion shows held in couture houses where it was the same setting: very small, very up close, and highly intimate. Overall, IDNYC Spring/Summer 2011 by Isabelle Donola was sharp and clean. The pieces can be worn for

work or to an art installation exhibit. Little Red Riding Hood and minimalism were two dominant motifs. Fabrics included crisp white linens, soft silks, sheer chiffons, and earthy wools. Their only real downfall was the 3-hour delay. There was a clear sense of the IDNYC woman. It was a cohesive collection that had options for a modest woman but also for a daring younger woman. Earthy, minimalistic, sexy, and clean is what the IDNYC woman was in this collection. I would wear anyone of these pieces out to dinner on a warm summer evening, if I were a girl! Congratulations to a successful and exquisite collection, cheers!

Visit Costella & Donola’s Co-Op website to shop their new collections: http://www.costellaanddonola.com/

MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

26