An Icon Is Gone

Forever remembered as inspiration for everyone, Michael Jackson lives on... he leaves us his legacy of love for one another and his music that has united races and generations. I will never forget how I grew up listening to his music, thanks to my dad, a loyal fan. 

I have always looked at him as an icon. From his music to his style, Michael Jackson was an innovator. He will be missed.

Shop Miami @ The Moore Building

Considering the very inviting open vodka bar, I decided to finally suck it up and go to Shop Miami. It took place on June 18th at the Moore Building in Miami's Design District. Gen Art's evening of fashion got together designers and boutiques under one roof (and 3 floors), with music by our dear Ray Milian, and Miami's trend-seeking crowd. Having put aside my expectations, I walked around while sipping on my drink and taking it all in. 

The venue looked amazing. As we walked in, the very welcoming music and vibe took over... It set a nice atmosphere and could have gotten me in a mood to shop, but, as I came to notice, I am as picky as it  gets. Out of all the stands I struggled to walk through, I can truly say I might have liked 3, at most. Some honorable mentions go out to ZulaStudio, Ecoist (handbags made out of folded paper), and KRELwear (who took it to the next level by offering custom made knits right on the spot). 

I would have liked to see more design, more originality, and less south-beach-sundress. Yes, I know I might be asking for too much in a city that survives on that, but being a fashion event, I would have loved to see more emerging designers with that edge and sophistication that the other 305 crowd loves. 

Here's to hoping... that next year I'll see more designers getting involved. Not going to lie, I had a great time, maybe too much of a good time (or too much kiwi vodka, or passion fruit, or whatever that was).

I'm expecting Jipsy to post some very indecent pictures soon. I'll be waiting. That's all.

Barbie

Comme Des Garçons turns 40...

... and they are celebrating by creating a new brand. BLACK. This new side of CDG will be more contemporary, rougher, and will be what Rei Kawakubo has been all about throughout the years. The Comme Des Garçons designer is known for having her way with color: mostly all-black collections, with hints of red here and there. 

Kawakubo has always been true to her originality, and has yet to be imitated. She creates outside of the boundaries and makes clothing that represent the CDG woman: independent, comfortable, and she likes to think outside of the box. 

Along with the Black label, the designer is now collaborating with Vogue Nippon in several projects. The stores have already opened in Tokyo, and there are various to be opened in Paris as well. It is thanks to her, that contemporary Japanese designers have been able to flourish and establish their successful businesses; she set the foundation for the future brands to come. 

According to CEO of Comme Des Garçons, Mr. Joffe, Rei Kawakubo's involvement and control of the company has not changed one bit in the past forty years. 

Knowing that the US will most likely NOT be home to any Black stores, I will forward to checking out via web all that I am missing out on right across the globe. 

2009 Cannes Film Festival Favorites

I said I would not blog about this... but I simply couldn't resist.

Eva Longoria Parker in Versace Atelier. Oh my. Jaw dropping.

Nice finds online

So while I am sitting in front of the computer in my Fashion Buying for Design class, I like to explore online. So far I found Yohji Yamamoto Dr. Martens boots that blew my mind (and would for sure blow my budget too), and some Jean Pierre Braganza pants at the Seven New York website (http://www.sevennewyork.com/), an Alexis Bittar ring (http://www.alexisbittar.com/)...

Also, I enjoyed Barbara Bui's Winter 2009 collection. Some of my favorite pieces... all found at http://www.barbarabui.com/

Enjoy.

Barbie

Valentino really is The Last Emperor

Having heard about Matt Tyrnauer's indie film during Miami International Film Festival, and being a fashion design student and lover, I was excited to find out that our school and Fashion Group International were putting together a meet and greet with him, and a special viewing at the Regal in South Beach.
Looking just like one of us, the director chatted with teachers and other attendees, and then walked into the theater as we all took our seats and he was introduced by a rep from the Fashion Group International. Tyrnauer explained that the movie shows how it had been to work with “…a fashion icon and the tannest man on Earth.”

The movie started. From my perspective, it was amazing. It was very interesting and entertaining to see a designer was such prestige as Valentino, that ‘up, close, and personal.’ From the history of how Valentino started off, how he met Giancarlo Giammetti, his partner… to the buy-out of the company that carries his name and, eventually, his retirement. Memorable movie moments keep coming to my mind: Valentino and his adorable pugs, always in the middle, even when there is a crisis. His arguments with Giancarlo and how it was all solved by a simple “you look fat”. The planning of what was to become one of his last collections and runway shows. The party of the century, with Valentino designs from the 60s all the way to today, a celebration that brought tears to his eyes. His relationship with designer Karl Lagerfeld, and how they both looked like little children in this multi-million dollar playground in which Valentino was to throw his 45th anniversary party. And, finally, the disappointment and anger in his face when the company which he led with grace, class, and dedicated his life to, was to be bought out by investors.
The film gave all of us a quick yet profound glimpse of what it is like to be him, deal with his pressure and fears, and celebrate his victories and achievements. Moreover, it helped us, designers, understand more about the insane industry in which we are trying to get involved.

After the showing, Director Matt Tyrnauer took over the microphone again. He explained how the film had been shot in a span of over two years, in which Valentino would get sick of the cameras, quit, and “…rehire himself in the morning.”
Someone in the audience asked if he had been aware of the disintegration of the company. Tyrnauer explained that they had no idea at all; he said he thought that “we’d film for one year, and then it became clear that [Valentino] was considering retirement, so we thought we’d stay around… and then Giancarlo started to plan the largest party in the history of the universe, so we thought we’d star around for that.” It proved to be great instinct, since he was able to capture everything from the creative process, to the celebration, to the demise.
Tyrnauer also said that the legend is actually a very nice and amusing man, obsessed with finding out Tom Cruise’s and Orlando Bloom’s secret homosexual life. He also told us how much Valentino and Giancarlo hated the movie when they first watched it in London. The duo wanted Matteo Marzotto, at that time the hated head of the company, out of the movie altogether.
Valentino: The Last Emperor was finally shown at the Venice Film Festival, after many months of re-editing and negotiating contracts back and forth. Valentino and Giancarlo sat in a balcony, above from everyone. After the movie, the 1,600 spectators turned to both and gave a long, standing ovation. According to Matt, the couple loved the movie from that moment on.

Barbie

Italy's got talent

Italian Designer Francesco Scognamiglio has been underestimated and under the radar for long. His last collection, SS2009, surprised me as I saw a little bit of everything that I wanted to see. I cannot say that I can find a common thread that ties the whole collection together, help me if you do... But I have to admit that I like many of the looks he presented and think that I will be checking him out in the future. Also, having Madonna wear your clothes and make you famous worldwide does help... a lot. She wore one of his creations for the video shoot for her song, Give It To Me.

Chanel unveils Resort 2010

Lagerfeld unveiled his Resort collection for Chanel. After seeing one look after the other, I can admit I thought it was beautiful. From the classic Chanel jackets to the flowing dresses, to the Ahhhmazing combo of lace mid-thigh tights. My three favorite (and very different) looks. Girl after girl, I see romance and a sultry sexy attitude that is particular to Lagerfeld's Chanel. Proud of him.

Valentino: The Last Emperor

Showing at the Regal South Beach Cinema 18, until Monday. This will be most likely Miami's last chance to see the film on the big screen. Valentino: The Last Emperor will be showing at 7:20pm and 9:50pm. Also, thanks to Fashion Group Int'l and Miami International University of Art & Design, Director Matt Tyrnauer will be there at 6:00pm for a meet and greet and will later answer any audience's questions that might come up.

Here is the info for those who are interested:
1120 Lincoln Rd. Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 674-6766

I know I may be biased, I can't help but adore everything Marc Jacobs has put out there since day one. But can I say it? He has done it again. FW 2009/2010 looks amazing, flawless. It looks like a fabulous, done up, night out around the city in a way that is almost surreal: We don't see this anymore. I applaud him for wanting to bring the dress up game back and for rooting for the edgy team. Here are my favorite looks:

Hope you enjoyed. Catch you, whoever you are, at the Valentino movie affair.

xoxo,

Barbie

Costume Institute Gala

It was the most important event in New York. Designers walking hand in hand with actresses/models/singers... We all wait for the pictures to come out and check who wore what. I noticed how there were some atendees who opted for vintage gowns, like Kirsten Dunst in vintage YSL. There was more to look at, as many of these outfits were supercharged with details (Camilla Belle in Gaultier Paris Haute Couture, Franca Sozziani in Alberta Ferretti, Renee Zellweger in Carolina Herrera, and Charlotte Gainsbourg in Balenciaga). Some of my favorites...

I can't help myself from loving them. Henry Holland and Agyness Deyn wearing Burberry.

Designer team Viktor & Rolf with Shalom Harlow wearing, of course, their design.

Charlotte Gainsbourg, gorgeous, in a knee-length yet amazing Balenciaga dress.

MIU Fashion Show @ Funkshion

The crazy times have passed. Here are some pictures of the Miami International University of Art & Design fashion show at the Funkshion tent. The outfit shown is my own little creation.

On a different runway, on the other side of the bridge... Miami Fashion Week had taken place just a week before that. It was an awesome experience to be working straight with the designers that showed during those days, but oh so exhausting.

From the castings...

To the runway..

More posts to come. Sorry, school and work and life make me crazy.

xoxoxo,

Barbie

MIAMI FASHION WEEK

It's that time of the year again. End of March always brings us the most exciting events of the year, and, after that, Miami goes back to its usual and routine parties.

This year, the 11th annual MFW will take place at Soho Studios in the Wynwood art district. I have to admit, Miami is nowhere near other cities' exhibitions... but, hey! We are all trying to make this work. On my visit there today, we got to take a look at what we will be seeing by the end of the week. Casting and fittings were taking place and it is all looking good so far. Yes, it is early in the week to see the final stage set and the lounges, bars, and seats placed. However, I will be working backstage throughout the week, so I will get to see the baby's progress and the final results.

MFW is known for bringing many latin American designers to the US. It is a market for the yet to be discovered caribbean talent. You won't see any Viktor & Rolf outrageousness (sadly), but this year is even more promising than the last one. Pictures to be uploaded possibly tomorrow, right now, it's girl catch up dinner time.

Take care ya'll, be safe, and rest (WMC is right around the corner!)
Check the MFW link while you're at it http://www.miamifashionweek.com/

xoxoxo,
Barbie

RTW FW09

As I continued to sort through collections, I noticed how I had such high expectations about this upcoming season, that I found myself a little let down. Alexander Wang left a small impression on me for some reason. Bottega Veneta's collection was, I think, saved by the last few looks (full length dresses that had a beautiful drape).

Bottega Veneta - I have to admit I could not take my eyes off the curious construction details. Boobs anyone? Fave looks were 16, 20, 30, 31, 32 (pic).

Boy by Band of Outsiders - I never actually bothered paying so much attention to this lot until now. Simplistic yet beautiful collection. Out of the fifteen looks, I could say I liked all of them. Classic pieces that, layered in a way to make them stand on their own yet make the outfit work... Bravo to these people for putting together something so nice. Let's face it, Boy by Band of Outsiders isn't at the same level as some other New York based designers. So I give them props for working with what they have and making it work so smoothly. Check out looks 2, 6, 8, 9, 11, 14. Images are, in order, 2, 9, and 11.

Burberry Prorsum - From the timeless Burberry trenchcoat to full A line floral skirts. This collection is full of the Prorsum edge that Bailey brings forth every season. I loved the neutral tones. From white, to gray, to black... and back again. Also, texture seemed to play a big part since I saw everything from light and flowy dresses, to tailored pants, to oversized fur coats. Favorites were 5, 11, 13, 18, 20, 26, 35.

C'N'C Costume National - Very surprised to find myself liking this so much. Capasa (designer) managed to bring the rocker chick to the runway, taking from the rocker and bringing a more glamorous and edgier side to his collection. Loved the hardware zipper detailing, but I have to admit I have seen it before, and it has been used in many collections all over. It's almost like the line up starts during the day of a woman and ends at night with those gorgeous dresses. 4, 7, 8, 13, 21, 32.

That is it for today. Look out everyone. MFW has officially begun! I'll be having a busy week, posting as soon as I get a chance.

xoxoxo,

Barbie

OK I'm back!

I have been away for a while, mainly taking care of my own creations and projects. Now back to blogging and reviewing the latest FW09 collections. I do have to say though, that I was greatly disappointed today when I woke up from my poolside nap to go and check out McQueen's collection for Target.. horrid. Borderline tacky, looked something you could find at your local Rave location.

I will only go over a few since, well, its Artwalk saturday! :)

Academy of Art University - my full support. 100% new talent, coming out with great silhouettes. The four collections that I got to see were clearly well thought and put together. The first 2 or 3 being my favorites.

3.1 Phillip Lim - always impressive, playful with textures. This time, he did it again. My favorite looks? 7, 10, 16, 17. Check them out on WWD.

Alexander McQueen - one of my top 5 favorite designers. always thinks outside of the box and that is something i have admired since day one. FW09 is houndstooth to the max, Amanda Lepore lips... yet he pulls it off. It is ALL about the prints and that dark side that McQueen always brings to the runway. Umbrellas as headpieces? Check. Crazy scarves? Check. Usual McQueen genius? CHEEECK. The last couple of looks that are shown are simply amazing, made me want to stick my face to the monitor with hopes of being taken to the show, for real. Breathtaking. Ok, and I really had to narrow this one down... fave looks are 6, 10, 14, 17, 20, 21, 22!, 35, 36 (picture), 42, and 43. From the amazing headpieces made from recycled and reused materials, to the high-drama (classic McQueen!) gowns and coats. This man should NOT be taken for granted.

Balenciaga - Ghesquiere does an amazing job, yet again. From the first look all I can focus on is that beautifully draped skirt. I can't seem to choose a favorite look yet. His masterful use of color makes me wonder... How does he do it? The fabrics look beautiful and I can almost see the flow through the photo. Ok now, on with the review... loved how he played in the beginning with the rough v. soft of the fabrics. Texture has been a big deal for him as seen in his last collections. The draped silk skirts and pants blew me away. Although I am a bigger fan of his modern twist and point of view of clothes, I do approve of this collection. Faves are 2 (pic), 5, 6, 7, 8, ad 13.

OK I'm out of time for today. Many galleries to be walked. Will be posting more soon, I promise. In the meantime, be on the lookout for the Miami International University of Art and Design talent! Fashion Show takes place at the Fountainbleau (Miami Beach, Fl) on March 26th. Many students, myself included, will be showing their new work. Next week, also, I will be working backstage at Miami Fashion Week... I will let you readers, whoever you are, how that went.

xoxoxo

Barbie.

Songs that make me happy

This is directly related to the soundtrack of my childhood... back when I really was innocent.

Time Flies

I know I have been busy as hell doing absolutely nothing and everything I shouldn't be doing (partying, drinking, partying... well, drinking)... but I figured it was time to get up to date with posts. I went back to my obsession with 90s dance; I know, ridiculous. I just find that, if played at the right moment, it works in amazing ways.

Take this... I just got back from class. Bronchitis (yet again). I have a whole day of responsibilities ahead of me. Technotronic. What other video would have done its magic as this one did?