Manchester PR Blog » Fashion News

Kate Moss for Mango

nadiablog — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:30:12 +0000

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Fall Sweater Fabulous Part Two: Tunic Sweater

nadiablog — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:00:26 +0000

How to Wear it Best:

Tunic sweaters are typically loose fitting and are best paired with a tight bottom or pant– personal preference of mine are shapewear leggings or skinny jeans.
Can be worn as a dress with cinched belt & opaque tights
Go for the Tunic sweaters that create relaxed silhouettes (can virtually be worn on all body types) for an effortless overall look

**Update for Fall: I like to look for Tunic sweaters with fun features such as bell sleeves and big turtlenecks (huge this fall!) – Pair with leopard or colorful tights.

Being around the top trends and fashions day to night, Style and Trend Expert, Brittney Levine, has been known to have a keen eye for picking out the next big thing. Brittney’s genre of expertise covers everything from pet style to Fashion Favorites, catering each idea to how anyone can get the most “bang for their buck.” Having appeared on NBC, CBS, Good Day New York, ABC and more, Brittney hopes to spread her ideas across the country to men and women everywhere going by the mantra of “How can she help” all of her viewers!

One on One Interview with Image Granted

nadiablog — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:01:30 +0000

Grant Harris

What is the name of your company, when did it launch?

Image Granted (IG) is a Washington, DC based Image Consulting Company dedicated to solving the complex image, style & fashion issues of today’s professional man. IG officially launched in 2009 and provides private & corporate wardrobe consultations, closet organization, personal shopping & other value-based services for men in need of practical & affordable style advice.

IG has been featured in several international publications such as The Wall Street Journal, TIME Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, and CNN. We are also regular contributors to several men’s lifestyle resources. You can follow Image Granted on Twitter, Facebook and RSS. Contact us about our services at corporate@imagegranted.com. Contact us regarding press/media inquires at press@imagegranted.com.

What is your back ground in fashion?

I do not have a technical background in fashion nor have I formally studied the subject. I have several degrees but none of them are related to fashion. I realized my zest for fashion later in my life and career. Everything that I know about menswear, style, and fashion has been self taught. I have made it a point to surround myself with men and women who are more knowledge about life, business and fashion than I am in order to absorb as much information as I can. I spend much of my time reading, writing, and listening to the best resources around the world in order to stay on top of my game.

When I launched IG I knew I was behind the curve because of my lack of formal knowledge about the fashion industry. I knew I had to gain some hands-on experience in order to catch up so I took on an internship with a custom clothier. For several months I studied the ins and outs of building a fashion business while also gaining exposure to the technical aspects of clothing, fabrics, and design. I give a lot of credit to this experience in helping me reach the level of success I have today.

Do you find that most men are clueless when it comes to fashion?

This depends on which part of the US or which country in the world you’re speaking of. Every city and/or country has pockets of men who are extremely knowledgeable about clothing and fashion. On the other hand you have just as many pockets of men who are “clueless”. I associate myself with the men who know what they’re talking about, and I provide my services to those who don’t. Most men know where they are right now with their style and they know where they’d like to be. The part they don’t know is how to get there efficiently and economically. This is where I come in. I provide the knowledge, resources, and guidance to get men from point A to point B so they can dress for the life they want, not just the one they have.

What is the most common issue you find that men face when it comes to creating their own look?

There are several. A lot of men get in a habit of buying the same things over and over again because they are used to them and because they’re comfortable. They end up with a closet full of the same items. A lot of men are also afraid of color. This extends from their lack of knowledge related to how color can improve and enhance a wardrobe. So, ultimately they end up with a wardrobe full of blue, black, white and khaki. Also, many men do not like trying on clothes. This baffles me. Yes, it takes time but it’s much better to try it on in the store to see it doesn’t fit rather than buy it, take it home, unwrap it, find out it does not fit, and then have to return it. One way saves time and money. The other wastes it.

What is your number one pet peeve when it comes to the generalizations of men’s fashion?

There is a generalization among American men that if you dress well, groom yourself properly, wear colors other than blue, black or brown; and spend more time shopping than watching sports, then that man must be homosexual. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It was not too long ago in our history that men were the peacocks and women were unadorned. George Washington wore diamond studded heels for his inauguration. By the time Thomas Jefferson came around he took his oath in slippers and a robe. I am not suggesting that men wear diamond studded heels. I am suggesting that men take more pride in their look than just slippers and a robe, and that they don’t need to be labeled as gay because they do.

Can you share your favorite trend this season?

I try to stay away from trends because trends fade away in time while style lasts forever. However, there are some trends that come and go in cycles and some are better than others. This Fall I think burgundy is a great color to wear for men. It is warm, regal, and manly. Wear it in jackets, socks, ties, and hats. Another trend resurfacing is elbow patches. Elbow patches are a great way to spice up an otherwise bland jacket or sweater. They also provide protection from wear and tear on the garment.

What’s next for Image Granted?

IG is headed for bigger and better. I’m currently planning several trunks shows in the DC area introducing custom clothiers as well as other menswear retail brand labels to the men of DC. I’ll be adding more accessories to the IG web store and collaborating with more brands worldwide to extend the reach of IG on an international level.

One on One Interview with Rue 411

nadiablog — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 14:12:51 +0000

Rue 114 is inspired by and created for women who believe that every shape and size can look amazing when properly adorned. Interested? Continue reading to learn more about Rue411.

When did you discover your love for fashion and design?

I think I’ve always had a love for fashion and for what a great outfit can do for your confidence and outlook. I come from a family of unapologetic fashionistas and there are stories of my grandma, who was a minister’s wife, being whispered about because she wore her 3inch heels and hats to church in 1940s Ghana. I love the visual!

In terms of realizing that this was the career-path that I wanted to build upon, that realization came in high school and it all just clicked. I went to Dartmouth College for my undergraduate degree in Sociology and then continued at FIT, in Accessories Design. There is something intoxicating about clothing the body and the transformative power of style. I also love that as a business owner, I have to meld my creativity with my business acumen. It’s a great balance of the left and right brain!

Tell me a little bit more about your shop Rue 114?

Rue 114 was launched in November or 2010. The name comes from the street in NYC where I went to grade school and the “Rue” is because I adore Paris! Rue 114 is really about providing women with exciting, unique, fashion options with an attention to detail and appreciation for real women’s bodies. The company’s aesthetic was initially born out of my obsession with finding the perfect, figure-flattering pencil skirt. This season’s collection, which will launch in mid November, includes pencil skirts, dresses, and blouses, as well as one of a kind hand-made clutches.

Your shop accommodates all sizes why was this important to you?

Our size range is critically important to our identity. We want to create a space where all women feel welcome to shop and gather inspiration. I am very passionate about representing women and celebrating the variety of the female form. It really disheartens me when I see so many rail thin, unhealthy models celebrated as the pinnacles of beauty. I am so excited to see curvier women being represented more in media and particularly in fashion.

You recently introduced your clutch series this past summer, where do you find the amazing fabrics that make your clutches?

Thank you so much! My family is from Ghana and I was born in NY so the clutch fabrics are a reflection of my heritage as a Ghanaian-American. Most of our African print fabrics are sourced from Ghana and the rest are from NYC. The clutch handbags are a limited edition one-of a kind offering so each bag is unique and made with love by me

What’s next for Rue 114?

I love that question! It’s such an exciting time for our company and the next steps are to debut the capsule collection in mid-November (at www.rue114.com) and to continue to expand the vision of the Rue 114 woman. My ultimate goal is to create a brand that celebrates femininity and style with an eclectic edge, whether in a size 4 or 24.

For more information visit www.rue114.com

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Fall/Winter Fashion Round-Up for School

nadiablog — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:45:00 +0000

Here are four key classic pieces to add to your collection to update it for fall or winter. Some of them require a new spin or new accessories, but chances are good they’ll remain in your closet for years to come.

1. The button up cardigan

Fall is all about sweaters and comfort. Bright colored camis work well under subdued fall neutrals. Primary colors are also in this fall, so you can also keep it classic with a true red sweater and a white cami.

2. Skinny jeans

The first item to pull out of your closet when you feel a bite of cold in the air is your best pair of leather boots. Boots herald in the season faster than the changing colors on the trees. The best thing to pair with those boots, of course, are skinny jeans. Skinny jeans give you the perfect shape that jeggings strived for with boots. Unlike the ill-fated jeggings, however, they’re much more body-friendly and seasonally-appropriate. A good pair of skinny jeans will last you long into winter and back into spring, when you can wear them with cute ballet flats.

Skinny jeans were once relegated to the ‘trendy’ closet, but since they’ve retained their popularity for about five years now, they can definitely be considered a safe investment.

3. Animal Prints

Unless you’re from Jersey Shore, you’ve probably been avoiding animal prints this summer. Go ahead and pick some up for fall though, because it’s easy to wear them correctly with a few pointers. First of all, never, ever mix your patterns. I’m assuming you know that leopard and cheetah don’t match, but you should also watch out for reptile skin patterns on accessories and any plaid, tartan on polka dots.

Mixing animals prints with the primary color trend, however, will give you a punchy, up-to-the-minute look. Mixing the primary, color block and animal print trends will make you a style diva. Use it sparingly as an accent with any bright colors and you can’t go wrong.

4. Slouchy hats

Put a slouchy hat with a smart button up and you have an instantly classic fall co-ed look. To make it your own, pair it with a vest or an oversized bag. Anything that gives you a scholarly look will glam up the trend and make it fresh. Contrast all of that intelligent order with bright belt in red, yellow or blue or a bright statement necklace to appeal to your eccentric side.

If you want to play it up for work, straighten your hair, top it off with the hat and pair it with a vest and a pencil skirt. When the days start bleeding into winter, you’ll be able to use the hat for more functional purposes, and you’ll already have ideas on what to wear with it.

However you decide to incorporate the new trends, be sure to add your own style and flair to it to personalize the look.

Sally is an avid blogger and loves to travel. She lives outside Chicago where she teaches at an elementary school. She is also eagerly awaiting the arrival of her first child.

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One on One Interview with Layla Joy

nadiablog — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 16:01:13 +0000

Designer Layla Joy has unveiled her first shoe collection and the launch of her company. Her line is “Fashion meets Comfort”, edginess and elegance that are also very wearable. Once I was introduced to LaylaJoy designs, I immediately gravitated to her aesthetic and I had to interview her!

Your background in fashion sounds amazing. As a world traveler which countries are you most influenced by?

I’d have to narrow it down to cities, and for me it’s New York, Paris, London and Hong Kong. I love traveling to these larger cities and observing how people of different cultures interpret the fashion trends.

The fashion sense tends to be far more eclectic and people tailor fashion to suit their needs. They’ll bridge fashion trends with their cultural and personal interests to make a fashion statement uniquely their own.

Who can resist a line that is “Fashion meets Comfort”, how would you describe your average customer?

I’m making shoes for a woman who is not necessarily 20 years old. She’s a confident – fashionable woman, a woman who is true to her own fashion sense. She’s a woman (like me) who’s constantly on the go.

A LAYLAJOY woman can afford to spend more – but would prefer to spend it wisely (Quality vs. Quantity). Most importantly, she a woman who enjoys fashion and Can’t Live Without Her Heels!

Which piece from your holiday collection is your favorite?

Ooh so hard to say…. I Love them ALL!

I love your outlook on fashion, who are your fashion icons?

I absolutely love the fashion sense of – Carine Roitfeld, Desiree Rogers, Giovanna Battaglia. In terms of other designers I adore Donna Karen, Michael Kors and Rick Owens; they dress women the best!

With the holiday season just around the corner, what are your number one tips for transforming your day time look to an after work holiday party? Which shoe from your holiday collection fits this look the best?

I love the idea of pairing the Carmen High shaft boots with a shimmering jewel hued dress, worn beneath a well tailored blazer. Comfort equals confidence, and confidence is always key.

For more information visit:www.laylajoy.com

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One on One Interview with Reflections African Jewelry

nadiablog — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 14:31:39 +0000

Sheinata Carn-Hall is the owner and lead designer for Reﬂections African Jewelry, LLC. Reflections has been in business for 11 years at the Charleston City Market in Charleston,SC. With the popularity of the line people want to see more of Sheinata’s designs! Continue reading to learn more about Reflections African Jewelry and see why people can’t get enough of her line.

What do you love most about today’s jewelry trends?

Jewelry trends today are so exciting. We now see more eco-friendly and culture conscious pieces. Artists are combining who they are and their lifestyle into their collections. As a result jewelry trends not only gives buyers a way to express themselves but also a means to explore other cultures.

Who is your favorite designer and why?

My favorite designer is Alexis Bittar. I respect him because he built his brand from scratch with his designs. It was a 11 years ago that I first researched his brand. He has two stores in NY and the most amazing thing is that all his designs are manufactured on location at his store.

When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in design?

I realized I wanted to pursue a carrer in design after graduating from The University of South Carolina. I began selling my jewelry in Charleston starting out with a small collection. I purchased cd’s, tapes, books and videos on how to close the sale. I trusted my instinct to tell me what to put together and the rest is history.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is definitely Boho. The freedom to wear clothes and/or accessories made from natural and recycled elements is liberating to the spirit.

Where do you get your inspiration for your designs?

People are my inspiration. Their desire to be happy, free and beautiful.

Designer Facts

Name: Sheinata Carn-Hall

From: Charleston, SC

Profession: Jewelry Designer & Business Owner

Favorite Quote: Hard Work is the cornerstone of success.

For more information visit: www.reﬂectionsafricanjewelry.com

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Style Inspiration

nadiablog — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:40:00 +0000

Wes Gordon Fall Winter 2011 via GardenandGun.com

http://blog.lescomposantes.com/

http://blog.lescomposantes.com

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LayJoy Unveils Her First Holiday Shoes Collection

nadiablog — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:35:05 +0000

visit:laylajoy.com

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Vanilla Star Old School Block Party

nadiablog — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:14:53 +0000

Last week women’s denim brand Vanilla Star brought New Yorkers back to childhood nirvana with an old school block party on West 14 street. Staked out in front of the Mandee store, a popular Vanilla Star retailer, the party kicked off with with food trucks serving up Mexican snacks as well as the famous Sweetery Truck handing out cookies and brownies. The rain did not stop the crowds from celebrating the launch of the Vanilla Star collection designed by the students of New York’s High School of Fashion Industries, an ongoing project set up to support young design students by raising money for scholarship funds.

Guests were invited to vote for the best designs and enter contests for the chance to win Mandee gift cards, Katy Perry concert tickets and a back-to-school HP laptop. All entries were submitted over the Vanilla Star Facebook page, an example of Vanilla Star President Mark Levy’s understanding of the effect of young consumers of the social media generation on his brand. Levy explains “We are beyond thrilled to join forces with the young minds at the High School of Fashion Industries. Watching their designs develop over the course of this project has been such a rewarding experience and an important step forward for Vanilla Star.

Front of the store

Designs from the HSFI Collection

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