Nara Paz – A new designer for today’s woman

Anik, an upscale New York designer boutique boasting some of the latest trends and fashion finds, hosted an introductory trunk show for Nara Paz Design Internationale’s For the Real You 2011 Spring collection. Not only is Nara an extremely talented designer but she is also an FGI Nominee for the 2010 Rising Star Award. Additional accolades include submitting designs to E! Entertainment for red carpet interviews during the Oscars along with styling a high-profile senator’s wife for the 2010 White House Christmas Ball.

While attending the trunk show I had the pleasure of getting an industry insider sneak peek at her beloved collection and I also snagged an exclusive interview with the designer herself. Read on for an in-depth look at the vision behind Nara Paz and what that means for buyers, retailers, and fashionistas alike.

How does the Nara Paz collection translate to the retail market?

Her designs are unique, different, and fresh. However, they also flatter every figure so your customers are able to find pieces that’s the perfect new fashion staples for their wardrobe.

Who is the ideal Nara Paz woman?

She’s eclectic yet refined, confident, worldly, and sophisticated. The Nara Paz woman loves to travel, she enjoys life, she’s chic, elegant, self-aware, and comfortable in her own skin. She enjoys fashion and her clothes make a statement about who she is.

Where can we find Nara Paz?

Nara is in talks with a major department store, but in the meantime, you can find her designs at the boutiques below, online, and by-appointment. Custom made designs are also available, couture, and ready-to-wear.
New York:
Anik
1122 Madison Avenue, New York, NY
www.anikny.com
Tel: 212 249 2417
Boston:
Matsu
264 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
www.matsuboston.com
Tel: 617 266 9707
Philadelphia:
Gabrielle
200 Monument Road, Suite 9, Bala Cynwyd, PA
www.gabriellebala.com
Tel: 610 668 2801
AU/Sydney:
Phone: +61 2 9941 2662
NZ/Auckland:
Phone: +64 9440 9176

What are the current trends? And where does Nara Paz fall into that spectrum?

The dominant trends for spring/summer are pop colors like pinks, blues, greens, yellows, reds, and purples, and statement accessories like oversized bags, necklaces, and shoes. Nara Paz’s new collection is comprised of neutrals, whites, creams, blacks, and classic silhouettes. This aesthetic adds to Nara Paz’s timelessness. You can pair a Nara Paz white cocktail dress with a trendy bright colored bag for an awesome day-time look and then swap the bag for an elegant statement necklace for the perfect night-time look.

See below for my editor’s picks of the top looks from For the Real You 2011 Spring collection:










For more information:
Dennis T. Gain
Business Director
dgain@narapaz.com
Telephone: 617 365 7949
Fax: 781 933 6266
http://www.narapaz.com
Nara Paz, Designer:
npaz@narapaz.com
Telephone: 781 933 2333
Fax: 781 933 6266
http://www.narapaz.com

Intermezzo and the Accessorie Circuit: Mixing business with pleasure, fashionably

By Candy Washington

Seasoned fashion vets and newcomers alike came out in the masses for the much-anticipated Intermezzo/Accessorie Circuit fashion trade shows. The overall vibe was definitely subdued and everyone seemed to be all about business. This work hard, play hard sentiment was even mirrored in the fashion trends seen at the shows. Cocktail hour dominated the booths with afterwork dresses, evening wear, statement jewelry, and sophisticated accessories for the modern woman.

Piers 92 and 94 housed the usual suspects, Alice + Olivia, Aryn K, 12^th Street by Cynthia Vincent, Laundry, Tibi, Velvet Heart, Nanette Lepore, Nicole Miller, and Plenty by Tracy Reese. Cecilia de Bucourt was also a stand out with dressy tanks and embellished pieces.

LA based Prim and Proper offers some great fashion finds to go seamlessly from day-to-night. If you’re looking for the perfect leather jacket to throw over your ensemble, then look no further than Muubaa, or if fur is more of your thing then turn to June for your fur fix. Blaque Label boasted some of the prettiest feather dresses, perfect for going out with the girls or to festive events. Zoa carries an amazing selection of silk tops, sparkly tanks, and sequined dresses.

BCBGeneration’s booth was a buzz with youthful frocks and Max and Cleo, Imitation, and Adam Lippes all got in on the act with fashion-forward cocktail dresses of their own. Stretta did their take on the classic bondage dress and Sue Wong had 20′s inspired flapper dresses.

My editor’s pick is Parker, their booth was super fun with a throwback to old Hollywood glam with a Scarlett Johansen and Nicole Richie vibe. Other buzzworthy booths were Chan Luu with its crystal vest just worn by Jennifer Lopez in her new music video and Shawlux with its digitally printed scarves.

Photos: Crystal vest by Chan Luu

A closer look at Moda, Fame, and the Accessorie Circuit

By Candy Washington

The fashion mayhem at MODA was all about the accessory, which is only fitting because it is held in conjunction with The Accessorie Circuit. The pretty pieces found throughout the shows are the perfect compliments for even the most sophisticated fashionista’s closet, especially those who scored some fantastic finds at Fame.

Oliver Weber’s, new accessory and jewelry collection designed with Swarovski elements, carries some of the most precious stones and metals. All pieces are made and designed in Italy with a US showroom and office located in Miami. The collection wholesales from $20-30 per piece to a $100 per piece. My editor’s pick are the oversized rectangle crystal necklaces, they come in black, blue, and clear.

Yochi is another standout brand from these coveted shows. In sync with the current trends of animals, ethnic prints, and vintage metals. Featured in Style magazine, Yochi offers arm cuffs, bracelets, and necklaces in lions, tigers, butterflies, and other animals. Their earrings range from large, triangle, oval, and hoops. All pieces are made in New York and are buyer-friendly with wholesale prices from $8-52.
The array of bags from Urban Expressions epitomizes the current handbag trends. Lots of leathers, fringe, zippers, studs, and chunky chains dominated their collection. The color scheme was also on-trend with nudes, mauves, tans, and muted options. The bag should always be a companion and not a burden.

Sugar Lips offers fun, flirty, and feminine tops and bottoms that are ideal for going out, but for statement jewelry look to Aida Kibur and Alisha. D, and for wallets, belts, shoes, bags, luggage, shades, and even perfume, be sure to check out Brighton. Analili always brings the fun prints, one-shoulder dresses, above-the-knee dresses with tight or billowy silhouettes. If you’re in the market for refined jewelry then celebrity favorite, Design by Debra Shepard, is for you.

For photo information contact candywashington@fashionedits.com

Hippie hippie shake: The new Fall 2011 shoe collection from Morenatom

By Candy Washington

What happens when the Germanns of Porto Alegre and the Abrams of New York, two influential shoe families, join fashion forces? The lovechild that is Morenatom shoes, the Germanns oversee the design and production while the Abrams tackle marketing and sales.

Named after two Brazilian icons, ‘Morena’, the classic sun kissed beauty of Rio, and ‘Tom’, the soul of Samba. Morenatom’s designs are the physical embodiment of these two concepts, with Cristina Germann, the brand’s lead designer, at the helm. Morenatom mixes and matches colors from a Fall palette, uses various silhouettes, and pairs vintage leathers with novelty textiles.

Having debuted this past February in market, the ethereal and bohemian-inspired line of boots, booties, and oxfords will be available online and through US regional retailers this coming August.

Here’s a sneak peek at the complete collection and my editor’s tips on how to wear them:

Lauren: pair these mid-calf boots with a long flowy dress, perfect for music festivals like Coachella.



Luli: these are great with denim cutoff shorts and your favorite tee; add a blazer for a more polished look.



Eleanor: this patchwork oxford would look great with a pair of skinny jeans and tucked-in button-up; add a statement necklace to complete the look.


Mabel: wear with the flaps folder over with your pants and messenger bag.



Lillian: wear my favorite shoes from this collection with a floral printed, striped, or solid romper or short spring cotton dresses.

Coterie: Bringing you TMRW’s fashion today

By Candy Washington

New York, NY, February 20-22, 2011 – Mini stampedes of fierce fashionistas dressed head-to-toe in black gracefully made their way into the coveted Coterie trade shows on a warmer-than-usual February day in New York City. And like any self-respecting industry insider, they are always on top of the latest craze before the ink dries on the trends section in WWD, and today was no exception.

Black is the new black married to a modern grunge look with a splash of minimalism was the defiant theme throughout Coterie. However, there seemed to be a halo over the TMRW section, a designated spot for some of the most provocative and young designers out there today. TMRW prides itself with representing some of the most innovative and creative people within the industry, including designers, musicians, artists, writers, retailers, and thinkers. They definitely brought their A-team to Coterie.
In case you missed it, here’s the complete list of TMRW’s designers and some of their stand out pieces:

Alex & Eli: Alex & Eli make a distinctly masculine white and black sheer button-up but wear with just a black bra underneath to make this into the ultimate sophisticated sex kitten look.

Anagram: The must-have piece from this capsule collection from designer Gary Graham, is the embellished crocheted charcoal tunic.

Blondes Make Better T-shirts: This hysterical line of blonde spoof tees make a great gag or birthday gift. Choose from the iron burned tee, the pen inked tee, and more.

Byeunns: This was the first time at Coterie for this Korean designer.

Bolongaro Trevor: If you want to channel a 50′s siren, pick up their silk black and white polka dot dress and pair with a red flower for added flair.

Carlos Campos: If you need a gift for your beau, Carlos Campos is your one-stop destination, especially for blazers and colorful button-ups.

Dear Creatures: To rekindle your Catholic schoolgirl days, rock the Buttercup Dress in brown plaid with cream tights.

Eighteenth: Known to take the jersey top to the next dimension, offers a phenomenal black top with an elongated symmetrical bottom, wear with shorts or tights.

Jardin de Chouette: Look no further for the perfect slouchy menswear-inspired trouser in white, beige, and light blue.

JUMA: If you want to add some life to your accessories collection integrate one of JUMA’s oversized printed scarves.

Kal Rieman: Kal Rieman perfects the nude jumpsuit which is surprisingly flattering on most shapes and sizes.

Lala Berlin: Lala Berlin has one of the most dazzling cocktail dress in the market. The Nande dress is positioned above-the-knee with pronounced sides.

Morgan Carper: Choose the Angelina Jolie-esque long cut-out black dress with gold studs down the front and attached black leather belt.

NKWON: The strapless double-layer dress with a side bow is to die for.

Nohke J: Need a new black leather jacket? Nohke J has a complete SS11 collection dedicated to the leather jacket. Cropped, simplistic, embellished, long, and motorcycle, they are all here.

Reborn Process: Awesome vintage pieces, and here’s a tip Hyoni herself, “Whenever you want to look classy, wear a trench coat with a little accent. One thing to keep in mind is that you should keep everything else simple. I would wear our trench coat with retro print silk belt and skinny blue jeans and simple gray t- shirt.”

Rosel: This line is ideal for the girl who can’t let go of the grunge. Frolic around town in their comfy black long-sleeved sweater with a white skull on the back.

Stripe by N: Espress your inner child with Stripe by N’s tulip black and white skirt

Stinabaaz: This collection is essentially all black save a few pieces. Their black leather skirt with pockets is a staple for any fashion girl’s closet.

Sunghee Bang: Sunghee’s collection was inspired by astronauts and samurais which is evident in their sought-after  metal and studs vest from their SS2011 collection. Please be sure to also peruse their new FW2011 collection here.

Thvm Atelier: If you buy nothing else this season, you must purchase the classic white tee from Thvm Atelier, it is the quintessential piece that you can dress up or down and where everyday.

WHIT: WHIT offers the cutest navy blue ruched skirt out there. This line is truly girly, fun, and femme.

Also in attendace: Cotte D’ Armes, Haden, JaneHOW, J. Apostrophe, Muir K, Sena, Sonodrs, S=YZ, The Studio K, The Riff, and Yoonmi Lee.

Designers & Agents: Breakout Star: Horiyoshi the Third

By Candy Washington


New York, NY, February 19-21, 2011 – Just a few blocks from the über-trendy and infamous Meatpacking district located in the heart of Manhattan, fashionistas, press girls, buying belles, and stilettoed socialites alike poured into the Chelsea Art Museum, home of this year’s Designers & Agents fashion trade show, a melting pot of the latest and greatest designers to infiltrate the New York scene.

Horiyoshi the Third definitely stood out as one of the greatest. I literally stopped in my fashion tracks when I came across this booth. Perhaps it was because of the charismatic gentlemen’s, Stephen Ledezma, a representative for the line, friendly introduction, but most likely it was because of the devastatingly fashion-forward duds dangling from the racks.

As I spoke more with Stephen, he explained that Horiyoshi III of Yokohama, the genius behind the brand, is one of the world’s most revered tattoo masters and perhaps one of the last of his kind. His artistry shines through his designs, with Jessica Alba and Kate Hudson as fans of the line. Horiyoshi the Third has received accolades from The New York Times, Vogue UK, Inked Magazine, and Style.com to name a few.

What makes this brand truly unique is that every piece seems as though it was hand-painted, or inked, just for you. It was tough narrowing down my editor’s picks from their Spring and Summer 2011 collection, but read-on for some of their must-have pieces.

For that special guy in your life or your little brother, opt for the burnt orange hoodie with black flames blazing up the arms and a fierce Eagle-like bird on the back, or the sheer lime green v-neck with a faint dragon design. The top pick from this season’s men’s collection is the heather grey sweatshirt with Horiyoshi’s very own image inked on.

Now for the ladies. Whether you are headed to the Hamptons or to Venice beach, the green silk halter with brushed on brown leaves is ideal to throw over a bikini or pair with a mini skirt. On a humid day, stay cool while looking hot in the light grey tank with matching boy-cut shorts and if it gets chillier by cocktail hour, throw on the red-orange cardigan with an intricate leaf design.

Easily go from day-to-night in the grey form-fitted long dress featuring an Asian-inspired navy blue design down the right side. The top selection from the Spring and Summer women’s collection is the poncho-esque white top with minimal fringe and wave design. Don’t forget to nab one of their signature scarves, both guys and girls, to complete any look.

What’s next for this breakout brand? They are heading to Paris for the European leg of the D&A tour.

For more information:
Stephen Ledezma
Horiyoshi The Third
711 S. Olive Street., Unit 504
Los Angeles, CA 90014
Email: stephen@horiyoshi-thethird.com
Website: www.horiyoshi-thethird.com

New York International Gift Fair: Special Report

Spotlight on Brink: What to buy for your guy
By Candy Washington

New York, NY – January 29 – February 3, 2011: As busy and on-the-go fashionistas, running from the boardroom to backstage to Barney’s, one task that sometimes eludes us is finding the perfect gift to buy for our guy. “What men really want is innovation and functionality when it comes to buying for ourselves and receiving gifts. Believe it or not color, light, and space are important to us,” confesses Tony Mayoral, head of sales at Brink Collection, a specialty brand geared toward the modern man under the Present Time Inc. umbrella, and I am inclined to agree. Brink’s booth at the New York International Gift Fair was a definite stand-out. Based on the best of Brink, I have compiled the ultimate guy-gift guide.

Whether your sweetie is a little rough around the edges, super sleek and put together, or somewhere in between, you’ll find the ideal gift… and just in time for Valentine’s Day.

The Minimalist Guy: If your guy’s uniform consists of a t-shirt, jeans, and a pair of Converse then opt for the Multitool Industrial Elegant Swiss Army Knife. Made from stainless steel and with 13 unique functions the Swiss Army knife is the minimalist guy’s perfect companion – everything you need all-in-one place, and not-to-mention it easily fits into the pocket of his relaxed fit jeans.


The Wall Street Guy: If your guy is all about the Benjamins and Gordan Gekko is his personal hero then splurge on a portable golf set. Since your sweetie will be clocking in the hours at the office, this portable golf set will allow him to take those much needed breaks and work on his swing, all while on a conference call. We all know that one lovable characteristics of the Wall Street guy is his ability to multitask.

The Guy’s Guy: If your guy is the life of the party and the pregame is always at your place then it’s time to invest in the Cocktail Shaker Set. Your guy loves to host and with the shaker, strainer, ice clamp, jigger and stirrer all included it has never been easier. Salud with your sweetheart and he’ll be sure to make you the life of his party.

The Pretty Boy Guy: If your guy takes longer than you do to get ready in the morning then pamper your prince with the all-inclusive toiletry travel kit. Complete with a razor, clippers, small scissors, mini toothbrush, comb, mirror, and more, he can keep his grooming accessories organized in the bathroom or toss it in his bag for on-the-go manly maintenance. This perfect gift will surely please your pretty boy.

The Artistic Guy: If your guy loves to wax poetic in his band, on a blank canvas, in his next novel, or in his Off-Broadway play, then get your creative cutie a crafty cigar box made from humidor wood in metallic grey. You two can celebrate his next big gig with a flavored cigar or if you’re not into smoking then he can store mementoes or his journal in this sleek box. You’re sure to be your man’s main muse this Valentine’s Day.

Fab.

Actress Candy Washington: Latest press release and booking

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rising star Candy Washington will slay audiences in next role
Actress lands a lead part in new slasher flick

New York, NY (JULY 2011) – Entertainment industry starlet, Candy Washington, has been offered her next big role, and it’s to die for. This multifaceted actress will bring to life the role of Allison, a perky yet doomed cheerleader, in the much-anticipated upcoming horror film, The Prison. This sure-to-be cult classic slasher film will mark Candy’s first on-screen death. Filming for the trailer begins this August in New York.

The movie is produced by indie-film heavyweight Frank Williams whose current projects include Mancation with former ‘NSync member Joey Fatone, actress Sarah Vandella, and former Wonder Years actress Danica McKellar. He also produced Living Will, a film starring the late MTV star Ryan Dunn, and his recent film Calendar Girl is an award-winning hit on the film festival circuit.

Candy’s next move will be a media and business tour in Los Angeles, CA this coming September. Please refer to the contact information below if you wish to schedule a meeting with the actress while she is in NY or LA.

Contact:
Jessica Lauren
Personal Manager/Owner
D-Mand Talent
866.726.2046
jessicalauren@dmandtalent.com

# # #

LF: Electric Avenue