Why Whee Up is the Next Big Thing in Fashion

Hi lovelies,

In the fast and sometimes fickle world of fashion, I'm always on the hunt for the next big thing. The next “It” designer, break through fashion line, cool indie label, and must-have bag. A label that has caught my attention recently is South Korea-based fashion label Whee Up by Whee Lin (or just Whee to satisfy my fashion sweet tooth).

Launching in 2014, the innovative fashion line has already graced the runways of the Mercedes-Benz Stylo Asia Fashion Week in Malaysia, Indie Brand Fair in Seoul, Korea, Daegu Fashion Fair, and was a featured designer in the ENK's TMRW Fashion Trade Show in New York City.

Offering more than just a catchy name, the new fashion label has the potential to take the fashion world by storm. It appeals to our need to be trendy with its hipster-esque oversized grey jersey dresses, comfy sweaters, and cool kid tees, all sporting cartoonish drawings while also offering staple pieces with its flowy black maxi dresses, pastel pea coats, and two-piece pant suits. Regardless of the occasion, I love that Whee Up let's you both dress up or dress down in style.

Another reason why Whee Up's designs stands out from the rest of the fashion noise is that they have a very unique and individualistic feel to them. Each piece looks as though it were made specifically for you. The craftsmanship behind the tailoring of Whee's piece is impressive and gives the illusion of being sewn for a particular person rather than your standard small, medium, and large cookie-cutter silhouettes, cuts, and sizes designed for the masses. This type of attention to detail is what separates the fashion geniuses from the Average Joes.

Just in time for musical festival season and summer, Whee Up also appeals to the whimsical, free-spirited, hippie chic girl. The line features an array of summery frocks perfect for Festival Season. Pair the light blue and pale pink dresses with an oversized chocolate brown hat along with dark brown chukkas for a tragically cool look. The black-and-white striped dress is also ideal for the music festival circuit. Wear a straw hat and kitten heels to emphasis the stripes. For a more angelic look, opt for the all-white look and dress it up with colorful accessories like a bright colored clutch, statement necklace, and embellished sandals. The salmon and green tribal print summer dress is the break out look for summer style. With this look wear minimal make-up with an all-natural look to emphasis the unique pattern of the dress.

For the more adventurous fashionista, Whee Up has pieces geared toward the more avant-garde. Some of its most notable pieces features matte leather, shiny metallics, chunky wool, and a classic throwback to the '80s with a fresh take on parachute pants. Whee Up also takes an old trend of color-blocking, and turns it on its head by color blocking with grey, black, and white rather than the usual bright primary color scheme.

Whee Up is definitely a fashion house to watch with definitive staying power. This brand is sure to be setting the trends for a long time to come.

Photo credit: wheeup.com

The Skinny on Sudio Sweden Designer Headphones and Get 15% off

Hi lovelies,

In the digital and on-the-go world that we live in, I'm always on the constant hunt for the perfect pair of headphones to accompany me while I'm blogging from the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, going for my morning run, posting my latest vid to SnapChat, or walking along the lovely streets of L.A. 

Luckily for me, I discovered Sudio Sweden Designer Headphones and I'm excited to share why they are my new go-to digital and wireless companions. The Bluetooth capable headphones come in a cute high-quality leather case and they provide consistent studio quality sound with a super long battery life that is ideal for being on-the-go. What's even more impressive is that you receive personalized in-ear sleeves along with four varying sizes of earbuds with each pair of headphones.  

According to Sudio's CEO, Johan Gawell, their "goal is to create a premium quality earphones combined with great Scandinavian design," and I must agree that have succeeded in doing so. My personal favorite from the collection are the Vasa Blå is Rose Gold White, more info on these are below.  

**Get 15% off when you use discount code Candy_Washington15 at checkout. **

Vasa Blå: Achieve Wireless Freedom

Studio quality sound, elegant design and 8 hours of freedom, that is what Vasa Blå is all about. Pair up with your phone and take calls with the built in microphone and control your phone with the remote. The Vasa Blå is compatible with all Bluetooth devices and its has 4 pairs of extra sleeves. It weights only 14grams and it is lightest on the market so far. Battery time is up to 8 hours (active) and 10 days (standby). And of course, one of our distinguishing features is that all of our earphones have flat cable, so they don’t tangle! 

We are the cool kids: Together California's Pop-up Shop

Hi lovelies,

The other night I had the pleasure of attending one of the coolest parties in LA. The Together California's Holiday Pop-up Shop to kick-off the release of their new designs. Together California is a a sustainable activewear brand that makes all their clothing out of recycled plastic bottles. The fashion brand was created by husband and wife partners-in-crime Benedict Barrett and Lily Chehrazi. Their pieces are equally hi-tech and high-fashion while protecting the environment and making a fashion statement. 

Featured in both WWD and the LA Times, Together California debuted their first collection in Tokyo during its Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. 

Check out pics from the party and shop Together California here.

Interview with designer Altaf Maaneshia: Perfect for the fun, flirty, and sexy girl

Hi lovelies,

I just got the fashion scoop on one of the hottest, new women's wear designers out there, Altaf Maaneshia. Featured in WWD and Apparel News, Altaf is freshly off of his Spring/Summer 2015 Collection Mystique Garden that was presented during both the New York and Los Angeles runway shows. 

"Altaf Maaneshia returned to his favorite Forties-inspired dresses marked by extreme shoulders and nipped waists done in mixed materials, slightly imprecise fits and odd color combinations, such as mustard yellow and neon coral.  Separates, such as a bomber in a vivid floral print with metallic brocade trip and ivory silk shorts and a minidress, felt sporty and fresh."
 - WWD

His price points range from $50-$350 and luckily for us, I scored an interview with the designer and below are featured pieces from his collection. 

Candy Washington: What was it like to showcase your designs during LA Fashion Week? 
Alta Maaneshia: Overall it was a great experience to show during LA fashion week. LA gives you great opportunities to socialize with people. I love to design for entertainment industry and LA is the best place for that.

CW: What was going on behind-the-scenes, that we can only find out here?
AM: I have been traveling internationally to showcase my latest  FW '14 collection. I have been working around the clock very hard. Spending time with family and enjoying life. 

CW: I loved the models big, tousled hair and deep red and burgundy lipstick on the runway. What role did hair and make-up play into telling the story of the collection?
AM: Spring Summer '15 was inspired by the idea of a garden and this is the reason why we chose a "nest" inspired look. It created a cohesive look transpiring where the inspiration came from.

CW: Who is quintessential Altaf Maneesha-girl?
AM: The Altaf Maaneshia girl is between the ages of 20-30 years old. She likes to have fun, be trendy, stand out in a crowd, wear structured clothes. She is a defined, strong woman.

CW: What's next for your and your designs?
AM: I am working on the Fall Winter '15 collection as we speak and putting together the finishing touches.  After some final tweaks and altercations, my vision for this collection will be transpired, I don't want to give too much away quite yet, but what I can say is that you can expect to see thick chunky wool, leather and comforting stretchy fabrics.

CW: Is anything else that you would like to share with my readers?
AM: Be an inspiration for others. Live your life passionately!

Meet the new sustainable fashion company VIDA and CEO Umaimah Mendhro

Hi lovelies,

I wanted to introduce you to the recently launched new e-commerce fashion company, VIDA. You can shop sustainably and responsibly just in time for the new holiday shopping season. Read on for the fashion-insider scoop below and an exclusive interview with the co-founder and CEO Umaimah Mendhro.

The sustainable fashion scoop on VIDA:
“VIDA brings global consciousness and an impeccable sense of taste to style-seekers through carefully selected artistic partnerships and luxurious, responsibly produced clothing and accessories—starting with a line of tops and scarves.

VIDA is able to produce limited and one-of-a-kind items to meet demand, giving you a say in what designs are produced.

VIDA will launch with 200+ designers and artists from around the world, including photographers, graphic designers, painters, sculptors and more, from Karachi to Kuala Lumpur, San Francisco to Sofia, London to Barcelona and Venice to Tokyo.

VIDA offers more than 75 designs on 5 types of products:

• 100% modal scarves: $40

• Cashmere-modal scarves: $75

• 100% silk square scarves: $95

• 100% silk modern short sleeve top: $65

• 100% silk modern sleeveless dress top: $75

• VIDA gives shoppers access to high quality silk, modal and cashmere products and unique designs at reasonable price points.

Through carefully selected manufacturing partnerships, VIDA is able to ensure fairness and economic empowerment at every step of the process. VIDA has partnered with responsible producers and offers all craftspeople a living wage and literacy classes.”

Interview with co-founder and CEO Umaimah Mendhro:

Candy Washington: What was the inspiration behind the collection?

Umaimah Mendhro: Growing up in Pakistan, I dreamt of becoming an artist, yet couldn't get myself to pursue that path because I was worried I might not be able to make a living. Throughout my professional career in the US in technology and business, I kept my love for design and remembered the huge footprint that the textile industry has in Pakistan. Many of the millions of people working in the industry are struggling to make ends meet. 

We founded VIDA to give emerging, global artists an opportunity to share their gift with the world while getting an opportunity to make a living. And to give shoppers access to beautiful, original pieces that are made in a way that create a positive impact. 

CW: What are the eco-conscious elements within the collection?

UM: We create products to meet consumer demand. So, unlike other retailers and designers who may have excess inventory from season to season, we drastically reduce waste by sticking to a model that only produces what consumers will buy. To that end, we also keep very little product on hand. 

VIDA believes in sustainable and fair manufacturing practices. We work with our manufacturing partners to ensure that our producers receive literacy classes and a fair wage, enabling them to build a better life for themselves and their families.

CW: How did you select which artistic partners and brands to collaborate with?

UM: Artists can post their designs (any type of art--from watercolor to photographs to digital art) directly onto our site. We produce those designs and make them available to our shoppers, encouraging our shoppers to be a part of the process. 

We focused on finding emerging talent all across the globe. We looked at artists showcasing at Fashion Week across cities all over the world, those recognized by the industry, as well as those who already had a fanbase on social media.  VIDA designers include: Elle Magazine’s ‘Up and Coming Fashion Designer from Sweden,' Emma Lundgren, Vogue.com’s top 10 fashion grads to watch, Cigdem Keskin from Turkey, and Tokyo based ‘Top Hat Designer of the Year,’ Honoyo Imai. We've really tried to include work from artists we personally admire, and we've found that those were often the pieces that resonated with our shoppers as well.

CW: What are some of your favorite pieces from the curated collection?

UM: The beautiful part about the collection is that it offers such a rich diversity of artistic perspectives - across over 20 regions around the world - from Milan to Tokyo and San Francisco to Sofia. I am particularly excited about our tops. They're very easy to wear and flattering, yet strikingly beautiful. And the slate and white palette will pair well with everything. I also think that any of our warmer cashmere-modal scarves are perfect as we head into winter. We have vibrant, colorful designs based on watercolor paintings like "Maria" (by Maria Virginia Montiel from Barcelona) along with more understated pieces based on photography like "Project Rare" (by Jennifer Corrales from San Francisco) -- it's a curated collection with something for everyone.

CW: Where can we go to shop the new line? 

UM: VIDA products are available at http://www.shopvida.com/. 

The urbancode Spring/Summer 2015 Fashion Collection

Hi lovelies,

I just got the fashion skinny on urbancode's new Spring/Summer 2015 collection. urbancode is one of my favorite London-based fashion brands and you can get the scoop on the new line below. 

"urbancode launched with its line of women’s accessories in 2008, from its London based design house.  The brand has evolved to include women’s wear with an emphasis on faux fur and outerwear.  urbancode is renowned for their fashion forward designs, high quality design and craftsmanship. With over 30 years designing and manufacturing experience, urbancode ensues that the utmost care is lavished into every one of the styles.

The SS15 boasts a collection of urban silhouettes, must have fabrics and unique finishes. With their faux fur expertise for winter, urbancode will now enhance this offering by providing premium, faux leather pieces for the new season.

Colour and texture both play a big part in this collection with duck egg blue pastels sitting alongside classic black and vibrant red coral pieces adorned with industrial zips and buckle fastenings.  Soft faux suede pieces in warm camel add a hint of prairie cool.  Fringing is a strong story seen throughout the collection with dresses, tops and bags adorned with the long, soft strands.

The classic biker jacket with multiple zips, stand out collars and textured shoulders sit alongside duster coats.  Asymmetric, pleated faux leather skirts and high waist shorts create a strong collection. 

urbancode offer pieces that can be worn in different ways; with a simple button up jacket with removable frill hem.  Ideal for adding a unique edge to your look or with the hem removed, leaves a chic and wearable jacket."

Holiday Gift Guide Spotlight: Jewelry and Fashions by Michal Negrin

Hi lovelies,

Now that the holiday season is in full gear, we are all on the search for the perfect holiday gift for those that we love the most. Luckily for us, jewelry and fashion designer, Michal Negrin, offers an array of delicate designs that is sure to please everyone on your holiday shopping list. Her pieces are eco-friendly and all are locally crafted and 100% hand-made.

Her jewelry designs serve as a message for love and romantic style while being always being on-trend with necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches, rings, hair accessories, and brooches. The pieces come in both silver and gold jewelry coating options. Michal Negrin also has a fashion line that is in the same romantic style with tops, bottoms, dresses, skirts, vests, shawls, scarfs, belts, ties, and handbags.

You can also shop without breaking bank and pick up multiple pieces for those on your list while treating yourself to a lovely gift as well with a buy three pieces get the fourth for free along with free shipping offer for shoppers. You can view the jewelry and fashion collections here and then either visit or call the Soho boutique to make a purchase!

Or visit her boutique in SoHo:

Michal Negrin Soho Flagship Store
448 W. Broadway (at Prince St.)
New York, NY 10012
Phone:     212-334-2300

Here's a list of our editor's picks from the Michal Negrin Collection:

Star Necklace: $139

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Leaf Pendant: $69

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Long Sleeved Dress: $1,172

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Tunic Dress: $431

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Shawl: $591

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Funky Necklace: $217

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Dress: $1,729

Kent Denim: New menswear and denim collection by Noah Landis

Hi lovelies,

Menswear and denim fashion designer, Noah Landis left the world of corporate fashion to pursue his life-long dream of designing his own line. We are happy to report that dream has come true in his new stunning collection, Kent Denim. 

Noah grew up in San Francisco and then moved to New York City to pursue a career in fashion and design. After working in traditional corporate fashion, he was tried of mass-produced menswear on the market and wanted to create quality jeans on his own terms. He packed his bags and moved back to the West coast and then took a leap of fashion faith. 

He took an unconventional route and purchased an entire factory in Los Angeles, searched the world for premium denim, and is now able to bring his high-end casual menswear line, Kent Denim, to the masses without compromise. Each item of Kent Denim is hand with love and each pair of jeans takes 7 hours to create. 

Celebrities are already on-board with the new line including Adam Levine, John Legend, and Snoop Dogg.

Cynthia Rowley gets sporty with new athletic line

Hi lovelies,

Below is my article that's feature on FashionEdits on Cynthia Rowley's new athletic line, enjoy!

At FashionEdits, we believe in fashion meeting function, especially in our fitness gear. But more than just being comfortable, we can also be chic while meditating, practicing our Yoga moves, or striking the latest Pilates pose.

Luckily for us, Cynthia Rowley, the quintessential ‘girls’ girl’ designer, just launched her debut fitness and athletic collection. She revealed the impressive line during her 2015 Spring presentation at New York Fashion Week. The designer uses everything from boxy silhouettes, wetsuits, 80′s inspired trends, floral-printed workout pants, red-white-and-blue and black-white-and-green color palettes, shorts with a scalloped cut-out motifs, and feminine swimwear, to even inspire us to want to look chic while sweating it out on the treadmill or the elliptical machine.

CYNTHIA ROWLEY FITNESS 2015 SPRING

CYNTHIA ROWLEY FITNESS 2015 SPRING

CYNTHIA ROWLEY FITNESS 2015 SPRING

The break-out pieces from the collection were the full body black jumpsuit, the denim-printed short jumpsuit, the pastel color-blocked looks, and yes, even the gold plated bike helmet.  Cynthia’s new fitness line has some must-have pieces because it marries function, fitness, and fashion by one of the coolest designers around. Will you wear Cynthia’s new line? What do you usually sport while at the gym?

The Best Fashion from New York's AMP3 Press Day

Hi lovelies,

In case you missed it, I got the insider scoop on all things fashion, style, and emerging designers from AMP3's exclusive press day in New York, NY on Wednesday, August 27th, 2014. The pop-up showroom debuted many of the brands Fall launches and Holiday/Spring preview collections. Check-out the highlights and photos from the event below.

The scoop: Yesterday,AMP3 PR hosted its "AMP3 Press Day" featuring five of their favorite fashion brands for Fall: Bela Cricao, Citizen Ciao, SNOWMAN New York, NOMAD by Tess Johnson and Cat Footwear. The open-house event showcased each brand's latest Fall 2014 collection with a glimpse of what is coming for Holiday 2014 and Spring 2015.

Bela Criacao, Portuguese for "Beautiful Creations," is a contemporary womenswear brand inspired by the sights, sounds, colors and culture of South America, and made in New York City. The body-concious brand is designed for a woman's body, with separates and dresses that can be worn from day into night. The Fall 2014 collection has just launched at: www.belacriacao.com

Citizen Ciao is a lifestyle streetwear brand for men and women, inspired by the Southern California surf culture. The brand's "citizens" have an urban attitude and are diverse and multicultural, hence the brand's slogan, "the new surf." This brand new urban-infused surf brand just launched in July, 2014 and is available now at: www.citizenciao.com.

SNOWMAN is a New York City based premium down outerwear company for women that stands at the cross section of fashion and function. Snowman finds inspiration in the edge and flavor of the Big Apple's urban landscape, and they use top quality materials to create fashionable silhouettes at a reasonable price point. SNOWMAN is sold in The Shop at Equinox among other New York boutiques, and can be seen at: www.snowmannewyork.com.

NOMAD by Tess Johnson is a collection of designer backpacks born from unique prints, couture techniques and classic design. The fashionable NOMAD backpack comes with all kinds of functional features including: a separate space for your laptop and tablet, straps with two easy access pockets for your cell phone and metrocard, and interior circle pocket for keeping an umbrella or water bottle dry, and a matching internal pouch for your smaller items like your keys. The collection officially launches via Kickstarter on September 1st, and will be shipping in time for the Holiday 2014 travel season. For more info: www.tessjohnsondesign.com.

Cat Footwear is the global footwear licensee of Caterpillar Inc. For over two decades, Cat Footwear has been designing and engineering quality footwear that lives up to the hard-working reputation of the Caterpillar brand. Rich in heritage, Cat began in the industrial work boot sector, and has since grown into fashionable lifestyle collections for urban, city-dwelling men and women. Today, Cat Footwear is sold in more than 140 countries worldwide, and can be found in all major NYC shoe boutiques including: Limelight Marketplace, Shoe Parlor, Shoegasm, Zacky's, and Orva Shoes. To view the Fall 2014 collection, visit: www.CatFootwear.com.

The AMP3 Press Day event was kindly sponsored with treats by Zico Coconut Water, Energems chocolate energy, Pretzel Crisps and Probelle nail polish.

*Photo Credit: Peter Roessler Photography