11.07.2010

Ozwald Boateng/Men's Fall-Winter Must Haves


Fall fashion collections are often the more favored by Men, and we know fall fashion is the male New Yorker’s favorite. Why you might ask, simply because this is there chance to accessorize with those essential details, that revel the hidden fashionista in every man.
Fall and Winter fabrics are usually rich in color and texture, yet made light enough for those mild fall days and can often be worn year round.  But more importantly, fall and winter fashion is about layering.  Layering allows for you to show off your sense of style while keeping warm. When it gets cooler in the evenings or as the season progresses, you can throw on a sweater or jacket or both. The best part of this layering technique is that you don't have to spend a fortune to look stylish Often times the best sweaters are found at discount stores or thrift stores. The following Five men's fall wardrobe must haves will not only carry you through this fall and winter but seasons to come.
Plaid Flannel Shirt
Men’s plaid flannel shirts are hot this season, and never really go out of style and 
can be worn dress up and down. you can’t ignore their relevance or functionality. Made out of loosely spun wool or cotton, the fabric is known for its comfort and warmth, which is perfect if you’re here in NYC freezing in this -30 degrees weather. Throw one over a catchy tee and wear it like a light jacket in the fall. Use it as a layering piece over a fashion jacket in the winter; wear one under a sweater and pop the collar out for added detail, or even dress one up with a matching tie in the same color pattern. The shirts always look good with lighter blue jeans.
Jeans
Jeans have always played a  strong role in the American wardrobe, Levi’s 501’s  Put us American’s on the map globally. Now it seems to be a pattern, that every few months a new high end jeans company pops up. I might add some of the  prices of these jeans are jaw dropping; even The Gap! yes I said it, the GAP has a high end pricier line. In terms of color, we've seen everything from dark to light washes, but one thing is for certain--the washed-out, worn-in look is here to stay. 
Who said skinny jeans were just for women, currently chica’s are not the only ones enjoying the skinny legged jean. It’s a trend that's here to stay inviting the young skater teen and grown sexy man with open arms.  However, please keep in mind they are not for everybody or every booty, but since there is so much variety there is no excuse not to pick up a pair that enhances your best features.
Striped Shirts
In Just about every clothing store there is some sort striped shirt, they are every where, so Just get one. It can be worn independently with jeans, with a suit or under a sweater. Remember, fall/winter is about layering and from bold to thick stripes to thin ones; it's a good look that you will find easy to incorporate into many ensembles.
Flat-Front Twill Pants
Pick up some twill flat-front pants! They are a great, simple addition; which will go with just about everything. The Best part is they come in an array of colors and patterns to boot. Go for straight-legged version and whose fabric features a textured look. They are great for a night out with your friends, with anything from a turtleneck to a printed tee, or for a more casual day at the office, with a button-down shirt or a merino wool sweater.



Blazer/Sports Jacket
A blazer is definitely a must-have item that never goes out of style. The new styles available really give blazers a life of their own; that are all a revival of retro looks. There are some with patch pockets and/or elbow patches, others with big lapels and double-sided vents, And don't forget moleskin and corduroy options which can be a less formal look than tweed. Or choose a nice wool or wool and cashmere combination with three or two buttons. Don't be afraid to express yourself; get wild with color! The awsome thing about Blazer or sports coats are that they are so versatility and can easily be worn with jeans and dressier trousers as well as a dress shirt or with a printed tee underneath.  
The Newest Hotest Innovative Suits, Coats, and Blazers
Ozwald Boateng
Ozwald Boateng is a Ghanaian-British fashion designer who is responsible for introducing swanky Savile Row tailoring to the new generation of fashion seekers in both Europe and America. . Ozwald is one of London’s most revered bespoke tailors making a name for himself in the U.S. as well. 
Recognized for his innovative tailoring dripping with refinement and sophistication, Boateng’s collection of suits, coats and blazer--among other pieces---in luxurious fabrics and plush colors bring a perfect amount of panache to any man’s closet. 
Client’s of Boateng’s classically reined look include:  Don Cheadle, Laurence Fishburne, Jamie Foxx, Djimon Hounsou, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Samuel L. Jackson, Mick Jagger, George Michael, Brad Pitt, Keanu Reeves, Chris Rock, Seal, Will Smith, Chris Tucker, Usher, and Forest Whitaker.








10.30.2010

Fashion Fitness and Fun: Who’s Running The Runway?... Project Runway Winner...

Fashion Fitness and Fun: Who’s Running The Runway?... Project Runway Winner...: "Who’s Running The Runway?... Project Runway Winner Ms. Millana Snow.... Why Millana Snow is named Runway Model winner of 'Project Runway..."

Vote for Lydia Callins to Win SunGlass Hut Full Time Fabulous Blogger Job

Vote for Lydia Callins  to Win SunGlass Hut Full Time Fabulous Blogger Job

When I get the Job This is What I Will Get:

  • $100,000 compensation
  • A fully-furnished apartment in Manhattan at the residences W. Ny Downtown
  • new pad  comes complete with spectacular views of the Harbor and Manhattan skyline, a 24-hour concierge, state-of-the-art gym, a rooftop lounge and patio to chill out in and an inner city attitude. high speed internet connection 
  • $1,000/month styling allowance
  • VIP passes to fashion shows in NYC, Milan, Paris and more
  • * You will serve as an Independent Contractor for one year with compensation of $100,000.


      My  Video Submission:

      This Is Why I Am SunGlass Hut’s Xfactory!
      From foster care to fame, or at least that’s the plan. Growing up in the inner city of Oakland wasn’t easy, you try adding a plethora of foster families to the equation and see what you get. Me, Lydia Callins U.C. Berkeley graduate, destine for greatness or even better, destine to be the next Winner of Sun Glass Hut Fabulous Blogger Job .
        I took a job right out of graduate school, as an account executive at Enterprise Rent-A-Car. It didn’t take long for me to realize, that this was an unnecessary pit stop on my path to greatness. I got my finances in order, packed up my things and moved to Hollywood in June of 05.
         I knew this wouldn’t be an easy feat and I was prepared to rise to the challenge. I worked as P.A. for a reality show titled Rock Stars, where I really learned the concept survival of the fittest. LA was a huge contrast to my  pleasant experience back in the Berkeley days at KTVU, channel 2 news, Cal Media Relations,  and The two cable shows  I wrote and hosted for :Behind the Bling, and Five Minutes of Funk, thus, I became humble and focused. 
        I yearned to secure a job at a major network as an on-air personality, and if I can graduate Berkeley despite the obstacles, I can do anything.  I secured a job at American Radio Network as an independent producer, and began hosting my own thirty minute radio show titled “Lydia Land Radio.” It wasn’t “The Beat,” or “KROC,” or BET, or MTV but it was my start. I then expanded my horizons at starred in two Actor’s Group Studio productions. I landed several commercials and work started coming from everywhere, and before I knew it what happened I was being a featured in My first feature movie  “you Me and Depree”, and co-starring on television shows.  I needing money to pay for my acting training and flexibility to audition, I had to be creative in generating revenue for my endeavors. I begin my career in fitness working as a Female Boxer, where I beat the crap out of beautiful women..currently I am a proud member of an awsome non-profit organizatioon called “Knock Out For Girls” www.k4og.org.  Currently I live in New York, pursing my dreams as an Actress, Writer and Model, living life to the fullest...


        I am a well rounded balanced outgoing fun creative person... In my spear time I enjoy partying, exercising, reading, working on my novel, writing screenplays, painting and blogging.   
        My ultimate life goal will be to  use my fame and fortune to bring awareness to the social problems that plague America.  From my future fame I  plan to  start up several non-profit organizations to help the youth of America, especially the foster children in America and knowing that I have to accomplish my goals because there are  children depending on me,  motivates me everyday to do what ever it takes to make my dreams a reality.
      So Please Help me make my Dreams a reality and Vote for me!!
      With one “Click” You can provide a blessing and change my Life:
      I am in the running..plse click link and vote for me.. and then pass this to your friends..  

      (Important you have to confirm vote in email or it won’t count.)

      Who’s Running The Runway?... Project Runway Winner Ms. Millana Snow....

      Who’s Running The Runway?... Project Runway Winner Ms. Millana Snow....
      Why Millana Snow is named Runway Model winner of 'Project Runway' season eight .......


      “I was able to see the kind of mental, spiritual and physical focus I had to maintain to carry out My goals.” Millana Snow

      Skylar-Ny'cole and Millana Snow
      The Carlton Hotel
      As a self invited guest of A-Team Member Skylar-Ny’cole, I was able to crash her up and coming supermodel pal Millana Snow’s “Project Runway Wrap party”, which was located at 
      The Carlton Hotel 88 madison Ny, Ny.
      In conversation with Millana, I discovered Millana’s exemplary tall, slender. sexy, statuesque physic; brought life to Gretchen Jones bohemian inspired, fashion-forward collection, which by the way... HELLO! kinda....  of a “big deal”, won the praise of host Heidi Klum, judges Michael Kors, Nina Garcia, and guest judge, Jessica Simpson.
      Milliana Snow and ME
      I couldn’t help but notice taking in Millana upon first encounter, she was bubbly, beautiful, humble and so so stylish... A TRUE FASHIONISTA ON AND OFF THE RUNWAY!


      Rocking: A glamours confident Diane Von Gurstenberg dress a pair of sexy Christian Louboutin’s
      Christian Loubtin heels
      Getting to Know Millana........Where  are you from?
       I was born in Denver CO... But I also grew up in Houston TX. I have come to call them both home, but H-town will always have my heart!
      Who are your favorite designers and why? 
      I really love Ricardo Tisci of Givenchy. He is so now, yet so revolutionary. I also really love Chole, whom Hannah MacGibbon has done a beautiful job at remaining current but true to the classic Chole esthetic 
      Who are your favorite sun glass designer and why? 
        I really love my Ray Bans! But other than that you cannot go wrong with Chanel... Also Celine and Victoria Beckham have great new lines. 

        How your modeling career begin?
          When I was about 17 I just kept getting approached about modeling... so after meeting photographers in Houston I started building my first portfolio on my own.
          3 of your most memorable experiences on project runway
            Good question! I suppose one would have to be when Phillip Tracey was on the show and he hand choose hats for each of us models. He had designed hats for royalty so it was a pleasant surprise to have him choose them personally. I also really enjoyed when Betsey Johnson came, we were all so excited! Lastly the last show at Lincoln Center was wonderful! I was so excited, and very happy that I was able to go and win later that night!
            How was your relationship with other models? did you feel any pressure to be smaller, thinner? what was your strategy to stay on the   

            show? 
            I ended up becoming cool with a few... but I really just read most of the down time. Staying to myself was apart of my strategy,  during the filming I was friendly with everyone but didn't want to caught up in drama. I really didn't want to get caught up in competing with any one either... I wanted to just focus on being the best model that I could be; in hopes that that positive energy would separate me and help to come out as the winner. As far as pressures of staying thin... yes I def learned how I was perceived by other models in terms of size... lets just say everyone always considered me the "curvy" one! lol


            What was the outcome of show? 
            Gretchen and I won!! Next week I will be shooting for Marie Claire and a nice lil check :)
            Millana will appear in the designer’s editorial feature in Marie Claire and receive $25,000 from L’Oreal Studio Secrets Professional.


            Ms. Jones walks off with $100,000 from L’Oréal Paris to start her own line, a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a $50,000 technology suite by HP and Intel to create her own vision and run her business and the opportunity to design and sell an exclusive collection on Piperlime.com.
             How did show benefit you? 
            This was a great journey for me! I had graduated with my bachelors just 10 days before getting on the show! It has changed my life very quickly! More than anything, I was able to see what kind of mental, spiritual and physical focus I must maintain to carry out the goals that I have faith in.
            Where do you see yourself in one year as it relates to fashion 
            In a year I would really l like to have a few campaigns but not just in fashion... I would also like to do more commercials and to do more television; perhaps a scripted series.




            Project Runway was a one in a life time opportunity for the well deserving, hard working, beauty and brains Millana Snow. Along with the mental tools, and $MONEY$ gained from her triumphed win; the exposure will open doors for her future prosperity and aid in propelling her career... this will not be the last that we see of this elegant mademoiselle .



            Thoughts from a beautiful mind…Millana’s blog: http://millanasnow.wordpress.com/
            And Her website is Millanasnow.com

            Cankeler’s..Can’t Fit Christian Louboutin.. well “Barbie” can!




            Cankeler’s..Can’t Fit Christian Louboutin.. well “Barbie” can! 
            Fao Schwarz
            Price: 149.99
            767 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10153
            Considered a genius by Ciara and Angelina Jolie for slathering red lacquer on the bottom of 5-inch heels, Louboutin "found Barbie's ankles too fat," Women's Wear Daily reports.
            Christian Louboutin


            Tips on how to buy Christian Louboutin, and how his sizes run... clearly shows that if you have long or wide feet you are s%@it Out of luck:

            USA
            6
            7
            8
            9
            10
            11
            France
            37
            38
            39
            40
            41
            42
            Italy
            36
            37
            38
            39
            40
            41
            UK
            3
            4
            5
            6
            7
            8
            Japan
            23
            24
            25
            26
            27
            28


            Christian Louboutin Shoes Sizing:
            Things to remember before purchasing:
            1.   The width of your foot (very important)
            2.   The style of the shoes (flats, d'orsay, sling back, close toe, etc)
            3.   The height of the shoes
            4.   The type of fabric used to make the shoes
            Width of your foot 
            This is important because Christian Louboutin shoes are usually cut narrow so if your foot is wide you will definitely have to size up 1/2 to 1 full size up. If you're foot is narrow to medium you can probably do true to size to 1/2 size up in most Louboutins.
            Style of the shoe 
            The style of the shoe will also determine if you will need to size up and my how much. The following are some guidelines for general styles as to how much you will have to size up by. Search the Christian Louboutin Style Guide  for sizing specific recommendations on hundreds of style names.
            • Close toe pump (ie: Decollete 868, Simple): true to size to 1 full size up
            • D'orsay (ie: Jolie Noued Dorcet, Sevillana): true to size to 1/2 size up
            • Sling back (ie: No Prive, Gabine): 1/2 size up
            • Slides (ie: Jolie Noued, Sabotage): 1/2 size up to 1 full size up
            • Peep toe close back (ie: Very Prive, Yoyo): true to size to 1/2 size up
            • Long pointed toes (ie: Decoltissimo, Helmut): 1 full size down to true to size
            • Strappy sandals (ie: Rodita): true to size to 1/2 size up
            • Flats (ie: Ballerina, Un Voilier): true to size to 1/2 size up
            • Wedges (ie: Miminette, Miss Boxe): 1/2 size up to 1 full size up
            • Ankle boots (ie: Metallika, Hung Up): 1/2 size up to 1 full size up
            • Boots (ie: Bourge, Pretty Woman): true to size to 1/2 size up
            Height of the shoe - Christian Louboutin offers certain shoes in different heel heights and that usually makes a different on the sizing. The following are some guidelines as to how much you will have to size up by.
            • 70 mm: true to size to 1/2 size up
            • 85 mm: true to size to 1/2 size up
            • 100 mm: 1/2 size down to 1/2 size up
            • 120 mm: 1 full size down to true to size
            Type of fabric used to make the shoe - This will determine how much give the shoe has after you wear it a few times. Materials like python and suede tends to stretch more than materials like kid leather, patent, cork and satin. Crocodile, mesh, patent and fabric tend not to stretch as much as the above materials.
            Tips and Tricks
            Here are some things that will help if the shoe is too big or small.
            Too Small
            You can't really stretch the shoes lengthwise if the shoe is too short but you can stretch it width wise about 1/2 size. The shoes is made of leather so you can do a few things to help with the tightness. Please remember these are suggestion so if you don't feel comfortable doing this than don't.
            1. You can try to wear a thick pair of socks with your Louboutins to help stretch them out
            2. You can try to wear your shoe and heat the leather with a blow dryer to mold them to your foot (please be careful doing this because if you want to over heat it. Do not directly heat the shoe for over 2-3 seconds, it will melt your shoes or destroy your hair dryer)
            3. You can buy some rubbing alcohol and gentle a tiny bit on the area (on the inside) and stretch it with a shoe stretcher
            4. You can take it to the cobbler and have them stretch it
            Note: Do not over stretch the leather, do it a little bit at a time. If you over stretch the leather it will crack and thin out. Please note that you are stretching it so the shape might be a little off after you do it. If you're not sure about it please take it to the cobbler and have it professionally done.
            for continued info:

            Barbie and every other make believe perfect women with small narrow feet can  enjoy a pair of red bottoms, and I mean that from the bitterness of my heart! 
            Now the rest of us.. said with a (sad face )
            will either continue to squeeze our non-cinderella perfect fitting, gigantic foot into a pair, or just live vicariously through our Barbies. Lets face it... the shoe is way to expensive to not be able to enjoy properly, and it’s cheaper to just buy Barbie a pair....