Manchester PR Blog

The Fashion Forecast

nadiablog — Tue, 15 May 2012 10:58:51 +0000

Fashion trends change faster than you can say Prada, Gucci or Dior. Unless you’ve been lucky enough to be in Milan or invited to New York’s Fashion Week, you might not have your manicured finger on the zeitgeist of current styles and cutting-edge colors. From animal prints to tribal designs to 1920s flapper chic and New Age hippie couture, the 2012 summer is heating up to be an eye-popping display of looks and trends. While cool and muted nautical fashions were the go-to style of previous summers, that traditional yacht rock look capsized this year in favor of bright and vibrant colors. Canary yellow, cobalt, red and fuchsia have replaced blue, white and khaki earth shades. Fashionistas in bright summer hues are taking over the beaches and boats. These bright shades are the ideal juxtaposition to clear skies and quartz-white sand. Whether you accessorize with a racing striped clutch, diamonds or leather bracelets, the fashion forecast for the summer of 2012 is bright, hot colors.

From the Cote d’ Azure to South Beach

The beach promises to look like a Matisse painting this summer. In other words, it will be awash in bright Fauvist shades. Yellow and red are the dominant coastal colors this summer and tangerine is the color of the year. Red is always en vogue, while rolling fields of European sunflowers influenced many high-end designers this season. Yellow is the color of sunshine, citrus and optimism, and therefore it makes sense it would find its way to the beach. However, bright hues do not just refer to bikinis and monokinis, but also to accessories. On the beach, sunglasses are as ubiquitous as ice-cold mojitos. While oversized black frames are always stylish, they’re also blisteringly commonplace. Trendy colors like orange and purple make a bold statement. No make-up? No problem. After snorkeling or surfing, who wants their make-up streaking in Kiss-like lightening bolts? Go all-natural!

Poolside with Cocktails and Flirty Designs

You can up the ante and dress a bit more chic when your relaxing poolside. Why not strut your stuff on the deckchair runway? The pool has always been about flirty cosmopolitanism with a resort style edge. A loose, wraparound tribal or animal print skirt would look stellar offsetting your fuchsia bathing suit. Top off the look like a cherry on a frothy pina colada with a racing striped clutch. However, in order to make the whole look work, you have to offset it with soft toned make-up. Being poolside has always been more about fashion than going swimming. Soft, muted, earth colors will take some of the edge off the vibrant bathing suit and wraparound skirt. Make-sure the tribal print is not too busy. It is poolside, after all, not safari.

The 7:00 Garden Party

It’s time to exchange the flip-flops for a pair of wedges or sandals. It’s time to hang up the swimsuit and find a sundress or a cute, breezy pair of shorts. If the garden party is more California surfer and Tiki Hut and less F. Scott Fitzgerald and Zelda, then bright, candy colored shorts are effortlessly hip. Match it with a muted, vertical striped nautical top. If it is more of a formal jazz age bash, then cobalt, pink or yellow maxi dresses are ideal. Whether it is sleeveless or short sleeved, these cotton and chiffon dresses are comfortable and elegant.

In 2012, the laid-back and carefree vibe of summer is heightened by the bright color palette. The colors and designs are as bright as azure skies, Caribbean waters and pink coral sand.

More about contributing writer Megan Brown

Megan Brown is admittedly couture-obsessed. When not scouting sales for bandage dresses and sky-high heels, Megan is a social media networker at Slingshot SEO. In addition to shopping and blogging, Megan also enjoys spending her time cheering on her favorite sports teams, cycling, and going out on the town. You can find her on twitter (@thatgirlmegan) or find out more at her website: http://www.thatgirlmegan.com

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One On One Interview with Christopher Chong

nadiablog — Wed, 02 May 2012 14:32:05 +0000

Timeless, sweet smelling, classic? These are just a few descriptive words that sum up the fragrance line Amouage. I sat with Christopher Chong to learn more about the collection and the inspiration behind it.

MPR: How did you become involved with Amouage?

CC: It was by chance. Sometimes the best things in life happen by chance. Amouage was looking for someone who wasn’t from the industry to re-brand and to direct the company. They wanted someone who would be able to take an alternative angle to perfume creation and other product developments with the ability to take risks. At first, I was given the opportunity to direct the creation of the 25th anniversary fragrances, Jubilation 25 for woman and Jubilation XXV for man, in 2007. I guess I passed the test with flying colors because they offered me a contract immediately after that.

MPR: What’s your favorite scent (s) from the collection?

CC: All the fragrances in the collections are my favorites or else they wouldn’t have been released. However, the fragrances in The Library Collection hold a special place in my heart.

MPR: What are people saying about Amouage?

CC: I really don’t know what people are saying about Amouage. I am too preoccupied with creating excellent and fabulous products for my customers.

MPR: Why do you think Amouage has been around for 30 years?

CC: Amouage was re-invented and re-branded five years ago with three key elements, which are creativity, integrity and individuality. We believe in doing and giving the very best without following current trends or thinking about the competitions. Our mantra is to be ourselves.

For more information visit: http://www.amouage.com/

The Wellness Cafe at Norma Kamali

nadiablog — Tue, 01 May 2012 11:34:43 +0000

I had the honour to interview fashion designer Norma Kamali. In addition to having a natural talent as a designer Norma is also an avid believer of taking of taking care of yourself inside and out. With that strong belief she opened the Wellness Cafe ten years ago to introduce healthy options to her customers. Continue reading to learn more about Norma and the cafe!

1. Ten years ago you launched the wellness cafe, how have customers responded to this new addition

THE WELLNESS CAFÉ IS A PART OF MY LIFESTYLE THAT INCLUDES FITNESS AND HEALTH WHICH I BELIEVE CONTRIBUTES TO INSIDE OUTSIDE BEAUTY. I AM DOING ALL I CAN TO SAHRE ALL THE INFORMATION I DISCOVER WITH MY CLIENTS SO THEY TOO LOOK BETTER AS A RESULT OF BEST HEALTH AND FITNESS PRACTICIES.

2. How did you discover the benefits of olive oil?

OLIVE OIL IS PART OF MY HERITAGE. WHAT I LEARNED AS A CHILD THOUGHT THE NUMEROUS USES MY MOTHER APPLIED TO OUR DAILY LIVES AND THEN ON MY SEARCH FOR THE BEST OLIVE OILS IN THE WORLD THERE IS NO QUESTION IN MY MIND THAT TIMELESS SOLUTIONS USING OLIVE OIL FOR BEST HEALTH AND BEAUTY PRACTICES IS THE ULTIMATE BEAUTY REGIME FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN.

3. What woudl you say to disbelievers?

NOTHING. I WOULD NEVER CHALLENGE ANYONE WHO PREFERS OTHER METHODS. I CAN ONLY SHARE WHAT I LEARN AND LET PEOPLE MAKE A CHOICE ON THEIR OWN.

4. When traveling what are the 5 snacks you would recommend to staying healthy on the road?

I ALWAYS BRING ALMONDS AND GREEN TEA. I LIKE DRIED BERRY MIXES FROM JUICE PRESS THAT WE CARRY IN THE CAFÉ. I ALSO THINK THE SALMON POUCHES ARE AMAZING ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ARE OFF TIME ZONES. I EAT WHEN I AM HUNGRY AND SOMETIMES THAT MEANS FISH FOR BREAKFAST. THE SALMON IS DELICIOUS. I ALSO ALWAYS CARRY OLIVE OIL I PUT OLIVE OIL ON THE FISH AND SOME SEA SALT.

4. I noticed that Physique 57 DVD’s are offered for purchase at the cafe, do you workout there?

PHYSIQUE 57 IS A BRILLIANT TECHNIQUE. THE GYMS ARE PERFECT IN THE WAY THEY CHALLENGE THEIR CLIENTS AND KEEP THE ENERGY HIGH AND MOTIVATED. THE RESULTS HAPPENS SO FAST AND IT IS BECAUSE YOU BUST YOU ASS EACH AND EVERY TIME. I HAVE BEEN WORKING OUT SINCE THE 80’S AND AM EXPERIENCED SEVERAL METHODS LIKE PILATES, GYROKENISIS AS WELL AS RADU AND CLASSES LIKE DANCE CLASSES LIKE ZUMBA AND TAI CHI AND QI GONG. THE OVERALLCARDIO AND SHAPING BALANCE AT P57 IS REMARKABLE.

5. What other forms of fitness do you enjoy doing?

I LIKE TO DO SOME OF THE MAT CLASSES AT P57 AS WELL AS WORK OUT IN THE GYM WITH MY GUY FRIEND USING THE EQUIPMENT AT TIMES.

6. Have you considered expanding the wellness cafe to other locations outside of New York?

I THINK ACCESS ONLINE AND EVOLVING THE WEBSITE AS WELL AS THE EVENT CALENDAR IS MORE APPEALING TO US AND TO OUR CLIENTS. I THINK THE WELLNESS CAFÉ CONCEPT IS WORKABLE IF WE FOUND A GOOD REAL ESTATE PARTNER.

For more information visit NormaKamali.com

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For Him: Bow Tie/Handkerchief Set

nadiablog — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:34:42 +0000

Based out of Brooklyn, Activist Eyewear and Alfred Julius Bow Ties have launched their newest collections for Summer and Fall 2012.

These custom bow tie/handkerchief set that was available during the holidays for a limited time. Now the two companies have created new independent collections that are inspired by classic design aesthetics, with modern twists.

Prices range from $75 to $105, and will be available for purchase online upon the new Alfred Julius Website Launch, May 1st, 2012.

To take a look at the Alfred Julius Look Book: http://cl.ly/2d060k3p1p0532433C0b

Dawn Levy:Fall 2012

nadiablog — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:51:01 +0000

Although the weather is warming up, I thought I would share some of these inspirational looks for this fall. Dawn Levy’s designs are classic but at that same time fashion forward. She has an extensive background in design, which makes her relatable to her customers. The specific types of materials and furs that Levy uses are all SAGA approved.

You can never be to ahead of the game right? Let me know which one is your favorite!

For more information visit:http://www.dawnlevydesign.com/

Fall 2012

Fall2012

Rollasole: Flats on the Go!

nadiablog — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 13:57:59 +0000

Ladies, we have all been in a situation where we wished we packed our flats for those moments of emergency feet resecue! The women on west coast are in luck, Rollasole recently launched their first vending machine in the United States. Rollasole can be found outside a few of the top notch clubs in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The machines have been well received and I am sure will be popping up on the east coast in no time!

For more information visit:

Rollasole Blog:http://www.rollasole.com/blog/

Rollasole Weddings:http://www.rollasole.com/weddings.ph

How To Look Fly This Spring

nadiablog — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:20:06 +0000

The end of gray skies and cold temperatures means that it’s time to beat the winter doldrums.

If there is anything we girls know, it’s that there’s no better way to put a “spring” in your step than freshening up a tired wardrobe. The good news is that transitioning your clothes from winter to spring this year will probably not require a complete overhaul of your wardrobe, as many of last year’s classic cuts are carrying over for this season.

However, you will need to invest in some new accessories, which may be good news if you enjoy buy shoes and purses as much as you do other wardrobe staples.

Study the Trends

The trends this year are similar, in that they are based around color, color and more color. But the similarities stop there. Pastels and neon colors are hot on the runway, and color blocking is back from its 15-year sabbatical to tie it altogether. If you don’t think you can make a bold neon color work for you, try incorporating it into an accessory, such as a purse or in an eye-popping pair of wedges. Neon hues also work well on the beach for a tan-boosting bikini or sexy swim wear cover-up. Similarly pastels can be very feminine, but may not work on all skin tones. Instead, try wearing some gentle pastels in your eye shadow or on your nails.

Special Occasions

There is no more important time to be on-trend this spring than while attending a special occasion. After all, if you will be RSVP-ing to a friend’s wedding or baby shower, you can bet that you will be a recurring figure in countless photos. While making those lifelong memories, make sure you look the part with a flowing floor-length maxi dress in a pretty floral print. If the event you are attending is an evening affair, go for a curve-hugging cocktail dress in pink, green, yellow or another cheerful spring hue.

Brunch with Girlfriends

As much as you love your family and co-workers, every girl needs a little time with her entourage. If you are looking forward to spring weather on the patio with your closest lady friends at your favorite restaurant, show your excitement for the season with the appropriate attire. Think how great you’ll look sipping mimosas and munching on scones next Sunday morning when you arrive wearing a gorgeous pair of aviator sunglasses, a flowy scarf, some skinny jeans and a strappy pair of heels. Still need some inspiration? Check out this set, in which denim and a white tank appear classic, but a coral scarf and turquoise heels make it on-trend for spring 2012.

Look Good While You Play

No doubt, the sunshine and smell of honeysuckle will draw you outdoors to play sports. Don’t sacrifice spring style for comfort outside. For example, if you plan to spend your weekends on the greens at the local country club, be sure you’re looking your best with a classic khaki, a polo and some trendy golf shoes. You’ll find that classic golf wear in flattering colors are a girl’s best friend for a long day playing 18 or 9 holes.

More about contributing writer Megan Brown

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Six Scents: Interview with Joseph Quartana

nadiablog — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:16:48 +0000

Have you heard of Six Scents? This fragrance line is like no other, marrying the worlds of fashion and fragrance Continue reading the interview below with Joseph Quartana to learn more about Six Scents.

How did you become involved with Six Scents?

When fellow founder Kaya Sorhaindo called me up one day back in 2007 with the idea to do a small, capsule collection of fragrances and wanted my input on where we should take it. As I am a fashion buyer, I suggested that we invite rising stars of fashion to render their visions through scent, choosing the designers that are influential enough in the industry that they should have a fragrance, but those who are not necessarily big enough that they can have a fragrance. Kaya and I both first met at a number of charity special events in New York we put together, and thought it would be nice to apply a charity aspect to this fragrance collection also. Thus Six Scents was born, initially as a small side project but since then it has grown into a beast that takes up most of our time!

What’s your favorite scent (s)?

I love the heady fragrances like Angel by Muglier, Flowerbomb by Viktor and Rolf, our own Mary Katrantzou from Series 3: Memories, as well as Orange Blossom from Illuminum, Black Rose from Illuminum, and Piment Brulant from L’Artisan Parfumeur.

What are people saying about Six Scents?

We get good feedback for the most part. We do try to challenge the status quo by allowing the designers to envision whatever they want, and the perfumers to render whatever they want, to keep them interesting.

What makes Six Scents different to the perfumes in the market place?

We are the only ones to give cutting-edge fashion designers a voice through fragrance, but also what really makes us different is that we allow our perfumers to exercise their creative muscles, to do what they want; we don’t tell them it has to be this certain way or make them follow or even respect trends, so they are all for the most part groundbreaking and unique.

Visit: http://six-scents.com/

Six Scents Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/sixscentsparfums

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Bold Spring Trends 2012

nadiablog — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:15:00 +0000

Bold Prints/Refinery29.com

Fun Manicures

Bright Colors/The Budget Fashionista

Pool Party Decoration and Fashion

nadiablog — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:23:44 +0000

Pool Party Decoration and Fashion

Just as quickly as it left, swimsuit season is almost here again.

It’s time again to make healthy eating choices, get some exercise and best of all – pick out a hot new swimsuit to show off your glowing summer tan! To kick off the summer swim season, nothing is better than hosting a fun and fashionable pool party among friends? But before you start making your Facebook invitations, be sure to plan every detail to ensure your trendy summer swim party is a success.

Find a New Swim Suit

If last year’s look is a little dull, you might want to find new swimwear that works with this year’s trends. This year, colors are in. Neon colors and pastels are hot right now and are sure to turn heads at your party. As for cut, choose one that flatters your figure, keeping in mind that bandeau suits and mono-kinis are hotter than ever.

Accessorize - Because you will spend much of your pool party outside of the water, make sure to spruce up your suit with some accessories, such as some big frame sunglasses and bright, colorful jewelry. If you are a go-to flip-flop girl, choose some with some sparkle to them or even better, up the ante with some sky-high wedges. Do you still need more inspiration for your summer swim look? Check out this look, which does a great job of capitalizing on the pastel trend without washing you out. Everything pictured in $50 or less, making it both stylish and affordable.

Make Up

Summer time make up is simple and functional. No one wants caked on layers of a little bit of everything or runny black mascara. Instead, choose a waterproof mascara and start using a self-tanning bronzer weeks in advance. You’ll sport a natural glow that looks great topped off with a pretty pink lip-gloss.

Prepare the Pool

A pool party without a pool isn’t much of a pool party at all. Be sure to take the preparatory steps to get your swimming pool in tip-top shape before the big day. Leave yourself plenty of time for purchasing pool supplies, testing the water and replacing old or faded pool toys.

Party Details

As your party gets closer, set a definite time and send out your invitations. Be sure to plan what you will snack on, as well as what types of beverages you will serve. Keep the drinks fun and light. Lemonade and mojitos are popular choices, but almost any kind of fruity spritzer will work. If you are tight of funds, consider hosting a potluck, where all of the party guests bring a light appetizer and side items, while you grill some burgers.

Atmosphere

Set an atmosphere for your party. Blast some popular summer time music (Jimmy Buffett, anyone?) and hang up some string lights. Aim to have at least a couple of games to keep the party rolling during down times. Skip on the Marco Polo — it’s a bit tired, right– and set up a pool volleyball net or basketball goal instead.

With a little planning, your party will be a success! After all, who doesn’t want to be responsible for throwing the pool party that friends talk about for summers to come?

More about contributing writer Megan Brown