A Look into Bridal Designer Hayley Paige

Bridal mogul Hayley Paige is renowned for the sparkling, lavish, and colorful dresses she designs. She’s made quite the splash in the bridal world, creating a community of brides unlike any other before her.

Hayley Paige grew up in California and was a gymnast throughout most of her childhood. She learned crochet when she was about four years old, but didn’t start to design or make her own dresses until around high school. Paige spent a lot of time reading bridal magazines and was absolutely fascinated by the emotion and authenticity behind the dresses she read in those magazines. She designed both of her prom dresses on her own, and both were, of course, white. This was the beginning of something entirely new for Hayley Paige. It was the beginning of her enormous impact on the bridal industry.

Paige attended Cornell University and double majored in both pre-med as well as Fiber Science and Apparel Design. Up until college, Paige always thought being a bridal designer was just a dream she would never really achieve, and instead imagined going into medicine. Just before her senior year, Paige interned at Elle magazine, and that was when she began to fall in love with design. It was at this point that she started to believe in herself. Now that she’d had a taste of the world she wanted, she could really have it. 

Credit: JLM Couture and Hayley Paige
Photographer: Sundance Photography

After an immense amount of determination on Paige’s part, JLM Couture finally took a chance on 25-year-old Hayley Paige. The beginning of Paige’s bridal line was barely funded, with two pattern makers and two sewers apart from Hayley herself. The original Hayley Paige line launched in 2011, alongside the Blush by Hayley Paige collection (which is very similar to the Hayley Paige, just at a lower price point).

Credit: JLM Couture and Hayley Paige
Photographer: Nato Tuke

Today, Hayley Paige creates over ten collections every year, with approximately fifteen to twenty dresses per line. Each of Paige’s dresses are known for their genuine uniqueness. They’re sensual, yet elegant. Simple, yet fabulous. Classic, yet modern. The Hayley Paige Red Carpet collection is the most unique of all, composed of one-of-a-kind, off-the-wall pieces. Paige strives, in all her works, to create dresses she’s never seen before, using flowers, lace, stripes, and exposed backs to achieve this.

Credit: JLM Couture and Hayley Paige

Paige’s dresses have been seen on many red carpets before, including the CMAs, VMAs, and CMTs; Paige’s works have been worn by celebrities such as Carrie Underwood, Olivia Wilde, and Chrissy Teigen. Kelsea Ballerini, a country artist, was also recently seen on the James Corden show wearing a custom blazer designed by Hayley Paige.

Hayley Paige collections are currently available in twenty six countries. Her dresses can be found in extravagant bridal publications such as The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Brides, as well as popular television shows such as Say Yes to the Dress and Hayley’s own digital series Hayley Ever After.

Depending on the dress, Hayley Paige gowns range from approximately $3,000 to $8,000. Paige’s extravagance and reputation allows brides to be their truly authentic selves on their special day. Paige has designed a dress for every girl’s taste: flowers, lace, tulle, sensuous, modest. It’s all there. Every bride deserves to be a princess or a queen on their special day, and Hayley Paige brides are undoubtedly the happiest.

Spinning a Yarn with Angela Bell

Angela Bell, the Scottish Cashmere Queen behind cultish sweater label Queene and Belle talks to the Extravagant about all things cashmere, her F/W2018 collection and collecting Edwardian vintage.

Angela Bell at her Scottish Borders Studio

Queene and Belle was founded in 2000 on the premise that snooze-inducing Argyles and Twin-sets needed a major rebrand. It is hard to find a more knowledgeable and passionate creative. Taking full advantage of generations of family knowledge, Scottish production resources, and time spent at Pringle, Bell creates her pieces in the scenic Scottish Borders, which she calls home. The vivacious designs are painstakingly executed through hand-knitting and intarsia techniques that take hours to realize, using decadent 6-ply yarns from Todd & Duncan. Each jumper is lovingly finished with a hand-stitched stylized St. Edward’s Crown.

Bell cites both her grandmothers as the Original Fashionistas in her life, although she draws a lot from contemporary iconography, she is always ready with a timely and on trend collection like this season’s Wild West themed confection. The label has recently added non-cashmere offerings to compliment its main design area because, let’s face it, nothing goes better with a boyfriend sweater than a poplin sundress. The perpetually cold amongst us rejoice.

What drew you to jumpers? Do you have a favourite one?

“My family have all been involved in the local cashmere industry for 4 generations, so I was always surrounded by sweaters. My dad must have had around 20 navy classics so I used to ‘borrow’ them! I guess, I’m always drawn to an oversize navy cashmere sweater because of this!”

Walk us through your design process at Queene and Belle. What is your favourite part? From where do you draw inspiration?

“I continually collect images, visit art exhibitions and people watch for inspiration and I especially love the textiles and patterns from Native American Indians. When I start designing I review all of what I have collected and, through a certain gut feeling, start to assemble my ideas for the new collection.”

Croquis Galore, Queene and Belle A/W2018

“When my designs are formulated, I draw up each design specification and issue them to the factory. I discuss the various knit samples I require and after they have produced these, the factory will go ahead with the actual samples. If new body shapes are needed or if new developments for knit trims are required, this is all done at this stage. It usually takes around 5-7 weeks for the factory to produce the sample collection and I continually visit the various technicians to discuss the work in progress. When the collection is finished, we arrange the photo shoot which is always done on the farm where I live. I use my home as well as the farm buildings (which date from the 1700’s) as an interior and the surrounding hills for the outside shots. Everything is done locally and my customers love that the ethos behind Queene and Belle is very much a personal story. I personally style the collection during the photoshoot, it’s my favourite part of the process as I love putting together new looks and seeing my vision come to life.”

What makes a Queene and Belle Jumper distinct from other luxury knitwear labels? 

“Queene and Belle sweaters always have lots of detailing whether it be our hand stitched crown, signature etched buttons, detailed intarsia or quirky take on a classic. All of our sweaters are very easy to wear and feel so light and soft. We also do very small runs and bespoke colours so customers will always have something very unique in this world of mass production (even at the top end of the market).”

Farm Camp Heritage Blanket, Queene and Belle A/W 2018.

Who makes a Queene and Belle Jumper? What is the brand’s value chain from fiber to end product? What about for the brand’s non-knitwear components?

“All of our knitwear is made in the local town of Hawick, which is famous for producing the finest cashmere for over 200 years. The yarn comes from Todd and Duncan who are based north of Edinburgh in Fife, a company who spin wonderful cashmere, yarn that is spun tighter than in other countries and therefore is less likely to pill and makes the final product last much longer. Having our knitwear produced locally means we can check everything at every stage and also do a lot of hand finishing in our studio.

Our cotton summer dresses and tops are all made by a family business in India who only make clothing for us. They are extremely talented and are able to construct the most intricate lace paneling, embroideries and shapes as most of our designs are inspired by vintage Victorian and Edwardian pieces. They only make what we sell, which is very important to us as we don’t want to overproduce. The same goes for our knitwear each piece is made to order.”

How does Scotland inform the brand? What are the challenges of working in Scotland?

“I think Scotland is very quiet and reserved…. a place to be discovered but truly loved when you take the time to visit. I see Queene and Belle in the same way. I love working in Scotland especially as my studio is on the family farm, it’s quiet and peaceful, I can have a clear head without any distractions and it’s always cold here so perfect for sweaters!”

Feeling Sheepish? Wool is a natural fibre with versatile properties.

Scotland has a proud artisanal heritage; do you think ‘Made-in-Scotland’ can have the same worldwide cache as ‘Made-in-Italy’? What do you think can be done to preserve its artisanal patrimony? 

“Scotland is not good at collectively singing its praises the same way as Italy does. The psyche here needs to change, especially at the government level and truly embrace all the great things that are made here, looking at all the positives instead of always trying to fix the negative things. They need the right person/group with an extensive knowledge and taste level, with the ability to correctly market Scotland the brand in a modern way which is inclusive of all of the diverse products produced from cashmere to agriculture.”

What does Quality mean to you? What does Luxury mean to you?  

“Quality means longevity, and timeless design and luxury means saving for something you really fall in love with and finally get.”

How does the perspective of generations inform your work? Is there a tension between Tradition and Modernity?

“Technology has primarily changed the productivity of the Scottish knitwear industry. Traditionally, knitwear was either hand knitted on hand frames or produced using a hand intarsia technique (for pictorial designs) on 8 -12 division frames which could knit 8 -12 garment panels at one time. This type of knitting was traditional, but at the same time labour intensive- it did however make a lovely tight quality knit – the type of knitwear that Scottish production was renowned for (although very often it was usually under-milled and the hand feel of the cashmere got better the more it was washed).”

Hokkaido Cardigan, Queene and Belle A/W2018

“Today, production is done on computerised machines which can do pretty much anything that the old machines could do but more efficiently. The stitch of the garments produced is a bit looser, which means the cashmere comes up softer in the initial milling. This is preferred practise now as consumers want to feel the softness instantly. The finishing side of the process is still very much the same as it always was with mainly women doing all of the body linking, collar linking and hand sewing functions.

These are just the general changes in the industry but there are a few mills and specialists still producing garments in the old way, so things have moved on with technological advances but the old ways have not been lost completely!”

How has Digital technologies affected your brand?

“It has had a positive affect for the brand, especially via Instagram. Digital technologies have helped introduce Queene and Belle to individuals who would never have known about us perhaps as there were no stockists near them.”

Who is the Queene and Belle client? What markets respond strongest to your vision? Has this client changed over time or remained the same?

“The Queene and Belle woman is emotionally drawn to our designs; she is an individual who loves unique things, high quality, sustainability, and the story.

Japan and UK are our strongest markets, they love our look.

Our clients have stayed loyal and evolved with us and introduced new ones through word of mouth.”

Regal Sweater, Queene and Belle

If you could fix one thing in the fashion industry, what would it be?

“I would like companies to return to producing one collection per season, as there is just too much product now. We really need to stop overproducing at every level of the market.”

What do you wish people would stop doing to their knitwear?

“Abusing it by not treating it with the care it deserves! It’s not leather, it’s a very delicate fabric which needs lots of love and respect! We actually offer a re-dressing service to help to give past Queene and Belle purchases a new lease of life. The service sees the garment returned to its artisan makers where it is washed, de-pilled and professionally pressed.”

Tell us about your collection of Edwardian vintage. What draws you to that era of costume history?

“Primarily white cotton, I adore white cotton as it just lifts everything and in that era it was so fine with lots of lace and embroidery. So feminine and timeless, the look compliments our cashmere perfectly.”

Carrie Shirt, Queene and Belle A/W2018

Where do you see your brand in the future?

“I would love it to continue as it is selling to lovely stores who appreciate the love, thought and care we put in to each of our designs.”

If you were not a fashion designer what would you be?

“In the costume department for films/TV”

Where can we follow you? Where can we get our Queene and Belle fix?

You can follow us on Instagram: @queeneandbelle

The collection is also available to buy at www.matchesfashion.com

To treat your cashmere right and for useful sweater care tips visit Queene and Belle’s site at:
https://queeneandbelle.com/cashmere-care/

10 Years of Christian Siriano

Until February 10th, I never thought I would see Cardi B and Meg Ryan in the same general vicinity as Laverne Cox, Molly Shannon and Whoopi Goldberg. However, there they all were, sitting in the esteemed first rows of Christian Siriano’s 10th anniversary show. Together, the unlikely troupe of celebrities and I (though very, very far away from them) watched as Ashley Greene, Danielle Brooks and Candice Huffine strutted in Siriano’s over-the-top gowns.

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 10^th: (L-R) Ioni James Conran, Coco Rocha, Laverne Cox, Whoopi Goldberg, Meg Ryan, Molly Shannon, Cardi B, Brad Walsh, Jaimie Alexander, Sarah Rafferty, Nastia Liukin and Patricia Field attend the Christian Siriano fashion show during New York Fashion Week at Grand Lodge on February 10, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

Everything about the show was extravagant. The invitations, printed on letter-sized card stock, depicted a luxe Roman-style painting — inevitably the inspiration for the show. The Grand Lodge, the opera-house style Masonic building on 23rd street, served as the venue for the mostly evening-wear collection. The 72-look show had no shortage of rich color, luxurious fabrics, and uniquely-cut garments.  Christian Siriano was definitely celebrating.

In his ten year career, the Project Runway alum is celebrated for changing the face of women’s fashion, promoting inclusivity that was virtually non-existent before him. “I think what’s very important for people to understand is that adding curvy girls on the runway happened because there were finally plus girls at modeling agencies, and now that there are, we use them. Why wouldn’t we? No matter what people say about what we’re doing, I think we’re changing a lot of women’s lives,” he told The Cut. His red carpet success echoes the range of body types found in his shows, too — his gowns have been worn by Christina Hendricks, America Ferrera and Kyra Sedgwick.

Image credit: Eli Schmidt, courtesy of Christian Siriano/ Agentry PR

His entire body of work highlights femininity, but has grown bolder as the now 32-year-old designer matures. His designs have expanded to include standout patterns and more dramatic hemlines, introducing metallics, puffed shoulders, bright floral prints and luxe furs in rich colors into his palette. He has, relatively quietly, done what more established fashion houses are desperately trying to do — stay true to their brand while staying on-trend and timely. His evolution is what keeps stars going to him, and what keeps his name in the minds of fashion personnel.

Siriano grew up with a size sixteen mother, and continues to revolutionize the red carpet by designing gowns for every woman of every shape. But, he does more than just dress them — he dresses them well. He understands the evolution of style and has shown a high fashion IQ throughout his decade-long career. Siriano wants his label everywhere, and that is exactly what will give his work longevity. His eponymous line will be around for decades to come, following a wildly successful first ten years.

Featured Image: Eli Schmidt, courtesy of Christian Siriano/ Agentry PR

The Alexander Wang Gang Gets Serious for FW18

“Everyone knows the celebratory side of me, but you know I am in my thirties right now and I go to work probably more than I go out”.

Alexander Wang took a stand this fashion week, to show people how he’s more than just partying. After years of designing outfits that are made for a casual day out to a mind-blowing party, he decided to enter the business world. A full collection inspired by CEOs; Alexander Wang has surprised us all.

He took a stand, and started a movement. Taking the different party outfits, he transformed them into office-inspired pieces. He used leather, outlined the woman’s shape with zippers, and pushed her into the business world.

FW18 Alexander Wang – Alexander Wang

He also focused on mystery. Alexander Wang, having Asian roots, has used them while displaying his pieces. Walking down the runway were mostly Asian models, where they were showing off the 10 first looks. He also chose to let all the models wear sunglasses. He believes the Asian model has a touch of mystery where her face is not quite familiar. The sunglasses added to the mystery hiding the model’s identity.

FW18 Alexander Wang – Alexander Wang

FW18 Alexander Wang – Alexander Wang

So to all the businesswomen out there, you now know where to get the perfect outfits this season for work other than the classical suit-&-tie ensemble.

Maison Margiela: A Click to Capture the Glamour

« Say no to technology »

Thousands of movements adopted this statement, and today John Galliano did as well in Maison Margiela’s Spring 2018 Collection.

Margiela and Galliano in one house ultimately means craziness at its best. Those two designers do not focus on pleasing the commercial public rather than creating actual pieces of art. And this time Galliano took a stand against this modern world we live in, dedicated to following the latest trends and having over 2 Million followers on Instagram.

He created pieces that alone are worthy enough to spend hours staring at. The twist, however, wasn’t in the design but rather the fabric used. It consisted of polka dots and holographic fabric. The focus on these two together was for the following: the audience of the fashion show were asked to turn the flash on and to take pictures of the designs. When doing so, the two fabrics together will give off a different look than without flash.

Maison Margiela Artisanal SS18 with flash

Maison Margiela Artisanal SS18 without flash

When producing the pieces, Galliano claimed they kept taking photographs of them. And according to the pictures, they made the right adjustments. With the models walking down the runway, the audience captured each moment and froze the glamour and magic in it, as Galliano said. In a world where the human eye is not enough anymore, Margiela’s designs were fully exposed through a click on your phone.

We think Tyler Ellis is Pretty Clutch

Fashion is in the DNA. Tyler Ellis, daughter of late American design legend Perry Ellis, talks with The Extravagant about her accessories label. Tyler Ellis which launched in 2011, has grown a steady celebrity following through a commitment to luxury materials, branding details and thoughtful design. Available worldwide, we ask about the design process behind Tyler Ellis and what’s next for the brand.

You have stated in previous interviews that you wanted to carve out a niche away from sportswear, but what draws you specifically to handbag design?

“I have always been an accessories girl—bags, shoes and jewels! I’m from Los Angeles, so my actual wardrobe tends to be rather casual. I usually stick to the basics: black, white, grey and denim. But I like to have a little more fun with my handbags.

I love designing bags that can be dressed up or down depending on the outfit and the wearer’s mood. I will carry my velvet Lee Pouchet (one of the most popular bags on the red carpet) with a pair of distressed jeans and a t-shirt all day, and then use the same bag for a gala event that night. My Kelly Box, typically considered a day bag because of its size and shape; looks killer when worn with a great cocktail dress and some statement jewelry. I want people to not only have fun with their Tyler Ellis bags, but also use them day and night, and not feel confined that a “clutch” is solely for evening and a “handbag” is strictly for day.”

Do you have any plans to expand your brand into other accessories aside from handbags?

“I tend to design things close to my heart. I have three Maltese puppies, so a dog bag is an obvious necessity. The Josh Dog Bag, named after my father’s favorite dog, is sold exclusively on my website and is designed specifically for canine lovers who want to carry their babies in discrete and chic comfort.

My husband and I are also big wine lovers so wine bags were a must! My two styles, David and Dennis are sold exclusively on tylerellis.com

Each hold two bottles apiece, are lined with my signature “Thayer” blue and have an exterior pocket for a wine opener.

Recently I started playing golf, and if my mother and mother in-law have a say in it, children are up next, so those are two new areas for me to explore!”

Candy Clutch, SS18. Tyler Ellis, 2018.

How have your travels all around the globe inspired your collection?

“One of the main reasons I started my company was because of my passion for travel, which has taken me all over the world.

I found women in Jakarta carrying the same luxury handbag brands as women in Singapore, Tokyo, London and New York. This made me realize that there was a niche in the market to create an independent accessory brand with the design and quality to compete against established fashion houses by offering luxury consumers a product that is unique, detail orientated and also focused on functionality.”

Your brand works with many exotic materials such as ostrich, lizard and python. What would you say draws you to these unique materials? What are the challenges of working with them?

“The beauty of working with exotic leathers is that you will never find two skins that are exactly the same. The natural textures are stunning.

I work with more classically used exotic skins like alligator, python and lizard. I also love to use more unusual combinations like ostrich leg, fish, red jungle fowl and toad, because of how unexpectedly beautiful they are.

The main challenge of working with exotics is shipping, because of all of the regulations associated with the skins and what state or country they are being shipped to. All of the bags I create have CITIES documents, which are certificates stating that the animal was humanely treated in accordance with fish and wildlife protocol.”

Walk us through your design process. What’s your favourite part? Where do you draw the most inspiration from?

“My inspiration usually comes from people watching. I’m constantly on a plane, a train or seated at a cafe somewhere around the world surrounded by eclectic groups of people, whose styles are very often wildly different from mine. A small detail will catch my eye and I’ll jot down a quick sketch on a cocktail napkin, or whatever is near and revisit it later when I’m on my own.

Next, I will expand on the idea, flush out all of the intricate details and then send the final sketch and notes in an email to my factory in Italy. Usually the factory has very few questions and they start the process of creating the first prototype of the design.

Now comes the really exciting part and perhaps my favorite part of the process! When the bag is finished, the artisan sends it to me alongside my original, little sketch. There is nothing more gratifying than seeing that sketch, which came from some chance detail on a person I will most likely never see again turn into reality! Well, aside from Oprah Winfrey’s team reaching out and saying that she was interested in carrying one of my bags to the Global Globes— that happened too!”

Python Backpack, Tyler Ellis, SS2018

More and more young brands are confronted early on with managing both global production and global clientele, what was your strategy for managing these obstacles?

“I have had my company for six years and it took me three of those six years to find my current factory, which was game changing. I feel so honored to work with true artisans that have the same eye for detail and take as much pride in Tyler Ellis bags as I do. This incredible relationship enables Tyler Ellis to customize bags for clients all over the world in a timely manner.”

Who is the Tyler Ellis client? Is it the same person you imagined it would be when you first started designing?

“My clients tend to be worldly, strong and whimsical women who appreciate luxury and functionality. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is traveling all over and getting to meet incredibly interesting women, many of whom have become close friends and avid collectors of my bags. To answer your question I would say, yes; when I initially started the brand I had the same vision for the Tyler Ellis woman, but it has taken a lot of growing, life lessons and hard work!”

How does celebrity styling play into your communications strategy? Do you have a celebrity you’re dying to see with one of your bags? Which bag do you think would suit them?

“As an independent luxury brand, my marketing budget can’t even compare to the big fashion conglomerates, so I have to look for other ways to get my name out there.

Celebrities have played a major role, not only in sales but also in brand legitimization. Before most people are willing to spend on a luxury item they have to believe in the brand and what it represents. And what better way to build trust than by having strong and inspirational women like Oprah Winfrey, Meryl Streep, Reese Witherspoon, Salma Hayek, Gigi Hadid and Kaia Gerber choosing to carry my bags, when they have access to anything and everything that the world has to offer?

It has been incredibly humbling to watch these women on the red carpets or spotted on the streets with their Tyler Ellis designs. I work very hard to create functional luxury bags that cater to what women want; whether it be a phone charger in a tote, an extra-long key fob (for easy access) or a detachable cross-body. I’m always looking to tweak and improve my designs, as they are all representations of both my lifestyle and myself. I strive for the best.

I have been very fortunate to have many of today’s most influential celebrities carry my bags, but looking back, I would have loved for Diana, Princess of Wales, to have carried Tyler Ellis. She represented what I like to think is the ethos of my brand: worldly, timeless and honorable. I could imagine her carrying my Lee Pouchet to events and my Jamie Doctor around town. That being said, in today’s world, I would love to see the Duchess of Cambridge carry my Kelly Box. It’s hard, rectangular shape finished off with my spear-lock closure is a classic design combined with a modern twist— perfect for a future Queen of England.”

LJ Tote, Tyler Ellis, SS2018

What has been the greatest challenge in sourcing and incorporating exotic materials in the Tyler Ellis line?

“The language barrier has created issues with tanneries. Misunderstandings on front cut vs. back cut of a skin can really change a design. I’ve also received wrong quantities and colors, and in a couple of instances nothing at all. But, I do work with an incredible father/son owned factory outside of Florence. Their close relationships with the tanneries that I source from helps make the sourcing process as seamless as possible. I pride myself on quality, so I source from only the most highly regarded tanneries like Paris-based HCP– Hermes Cuirs Precieux, owned by Hermes and the Tuscan based Caravel, owned by Kering.”

Tell us about the Perry Ellis archives: Are there plans to make the Perry Ellis archives accessible to the public in the future? Do you have a favourite piece within your father’s archive?

“I personally don’t control the Perry Ellis archives. The company was sold in 1999 to the Miami-based Feldenkreis family.

I do have vintage pieces of my father’s designs that were given to me by family and friends, which are very special to me. Recently, I was at a dinner party at the home of Lisa Eisner, the incredible Los Angeles photographer and jewelry designer. She told me that she had a gift for me, and asked me to close my eyes. She quickly returned and placed what felt like a coat on my shoulders—I opened my eyes and found the most incredible cropped shearling jacket, in perfect condition, finished off with my dad’s signature dimpled shoulder. He had given it to her in the ‘70s and it couldn’t be more relevant today.

My father’s pieces were so revolutionary at the time because he created women’s wear that looked super chic, but was also wearable and comfortable. He made fashion happy and fun, which inspires me every day.”

Where do you see your brand in the next five years?

“I’d love my brand to become a household name, but one that still creates unique, exclusive and exciting designs, and always strives to find ways to create the best products out there.”

Where can we follow you? And where can we check out your line?

“You can follow my brand on Instagram at @TylerEllisOfficial and check out the collection on TylerEllis.com. If you happen to be in London, please stop by Harvey Nichols to check out some of my special pieces in person!”

In their clutches! Hollywood’s showing off their Tyler Ellis’

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JANUARY 07: Actors Salma Hayek (L) and Ashley Judd attend The 75th Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 7, 2018 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Reese Witherspoon and her Tyler Ellis Lee Pouchet alongside Eva Longoria

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JANUARY 07: Actor Meryl Streep (L) and NDWA Director Ai-jen Poo attend The 75th Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 7, 2018 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

SANTA MONICA, CA – JANUARY 11: Actor Kate Bosworth attends The 23rd Annual Critics’ Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 11, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Critics’ Choice Awards )

SANTA MONICA, CA – JANUARY 11: Actor Jessica Biel attends The 23rd Annual Critics’ Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 11, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Critics’ Choice Awards)

LOS ANGELES, CA. Jan 21: Actor Allison Williams attends the 24th  Screen Actors Guild Awards at Shrine Auditorium on January 21st, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/ Getty Images)

Ralph & Russo S/S 18 Couture Show

If you’ve already seen Ralph&Russo’s Spring 2018 Haute Couture Show, what you would have retained most would have been your last look at the collection, and not your first. It isn’t because the first look didn’t catch your attention with its ’30s-style silk crepe kimono, ivory crystals and 3D organza petals, but because the last dress was an off-white double duchess bridal gown featuring draped bodice and floral ruching modeled by the Brazilian influencer Camila Coelho, who became the real star of the show. Other stars, present at Ralph&Russo Couture defilé, who were seated across the front row included: Kylie Minogue, Natalia Vodianova, and Arizona Muse.

Regardless of whether or not you know what I’m talking about, you should definitely visit Ralph&Russo’s website. Tamara Ralph and Michael Russo are an Australian couple, who decided to move to London to open their own atelier. And now they are the first British brand in over a century to be elected by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture to show their collection on the official schedule at Paris Haute Couture Week. Ralph&Russo’s largest studio is in Mayfair, London, but they have offices in Paris as well and they are about to open new boutiques in New York City, Miami and Los Angeles.

Back to the show, it was like living in a fairytale: on a luxury runway with mirrored pillars, 56 looks showed up to confirm Ralph&Russo’s engagement in innovation as well as the firm’s pursuit of the highest level of quality. With design and craftsmanship at their heart, these gowns have the same features that make Ralph&Russo stand out amongst other designers: elegance, romanticism and femininity make their creations perfectly unique, as well as beloved by women worldwide.

The main colors used are pale pink, white and black, but the three last looks are in cherry red. Off-the-shoulder dresses, silk organza ball gowns and cocktail dresses dominated the scene with Swarovski pearls, devoré ostrich feathers and hand appliqued chiffon ruffles, which are mainly present in the deep coral silk off-the-shoulder gown (look 7). These ruffles are also in Meghan Markle’s engagement dress, who Russo in a pre-show interview stated: “She’s definitely added to our worldwide appeal”. Nowadays, there are rumors about who is going to design Markle’s wedding dress and Ralph&Russo is considered one of the potential designers.

The collection is then defined as “a continued celebration of the many facets of all women and [it] pays homage to the Eastern exploration of Creative Director, Tamara Ralph. Showcasing resonants of traditional Asian decoration punctuated by imperial red silk crêpe, acid green gazar and canary yellow silk satin; the collection is a spectrum of exoticism, with transparent illusion tulle suits, crystal embroidered jacquard and draped kimono-style silhouettes edged in layers of decorative tassels”.

Dior Launches second edition of the “Dior Lady Art” series

© David Wiseman / Mark Peckmezian for Dior

Dior has just announced their launch of the second edition “Dior Lady Art”, a collaboration between the French maison and contemporary artists who reinterpret the iconic Lady Dior Bag by transforming colors, fabrics and decoration.

After the success of the previous edition in 2016, which featured both British and American artists, this year Dior called upon ten international masters to reinvent the iconic handbag. For the second edition, artists were given a complete carte blanche, allowing them to show their vision of the bag and transpose their creativity into the medium of leatherwork.

© David Wiseman / Mark Peckmezian for Dior

Let’s take a closer look at the handbag, it’s history and the key elements that make the Dior bag oh so coveted all around the globe.

The Lady Art Bag was born in Dior’s ateliers circa 1995, and first came to prominence when Princess Diana acquired this accessory during a visit to Paris. The Dior bag is instantly recognizable by the metal charms which spell out the name of the French maison and by the intricate leather stitching inspired by the seats of the Napoleon III chairs, on which Christian Dior seated his guests at his fashion shows.

© Lee Bul / Mark Peckmezian for Dior

The ten artists of different cultures, background and fame who were invited to revisit the Dior Lady Art Bag included: Lee Bul, John Giorno, Hong Hao, Jack Pierson, Friedrich Kunath, Namsa Leuba, Betty Mariani, Jamilla Okubo, Spencer Sweeney and David Wiseman.

Below are some insights and information on the backgrounds of a few of the artists who crafted the designs of Dior Lady Art series 2.

DAVID WISEMAN

David Wiseman was inspired by nature for his piece, as he uses Dior gray for the face of the bag. The accessory is depictive of stylized vines & flowers as well as gold for the charms; additionally featuring porcelain lily of the valley.

HONG HAO

Hong Hao is famous for his scans of everyday objects, from buttons to CDs, where he integrates them to create a complex yet sophisticated print. On the Lady Bag, he focuses on buttons, jewels and gems fastened on black leather.

LEE BUL

Lee Bul came up with an industrial-style handbag, made of tiny Plexiglas mirrors that together creates a big shattered mirror. The final product is a futuristic bag, which still evokes femininity along with luxury.

JAMILLA OKUBO

The Lady Bag reinterpreted by Jamilla Okubo is a mix between Paris and Kenya. She brilliantly combines Dior’s quilting techniques with Kenyan bead work (using Parisian crystal beads), thereby evoking a dialog between Kenyan culture and Parisian heritage.

Image Credit: Mark Peckmezian for Dior

Milan Fashion Week: Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace are Auctioning Tickets for Charity

With Milan Fashion Week Just Around The Corner; it appears to be a pleasant surprise that philanthropic causes are in the air.  Italian Design Houses such as Versace have followed with a charitable campaign, just after Christian Dior announced the #DiorLoveChain in support of the WE Charity.

Up until September 18th & 19th some of Milan’s most well regarded designers including Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace have all collaborated to auction tickets to their upcoming shows during their Women’s S/S 2018 Fashion Shows during Milan Fashion Week.  The auctions are being held by Charity Stars who will donate the funds to a range of foundations selected by the Fashion Houses.

Choices abound for the Fashion lover with Salvatore Ferragamo passes including an invite to their after-show party on Sptember 23rd; with a bid currently at 1,000 Euros.  And Versace offering two tickets to their September 22nd show plus a post show meet and greet with Gianni Versace’s brother & Co-CEO of Versace, Santo Versace.  The current bid is up-to 5,000 Euros for the Versace tickets, with proceeds for both Salvatore Ferragamo’s and Versace’s sales going to benefit Operation Smile.

Meet Christelle Khouri

Meet Christelle Khouri, a natural born fashionista who shares her passion for all things travel and style on her Instagram, giving the stylish woman ideas on day-to-day looks.  Christelle appreciates everything and anything “beautiful”, may it be through music, art or fashion.  Being a frequent traveler, Christelle has lived in all kinds of magical locales including Beirut, Paris, Doha and New York.  In true global citizen style, Christelle holds dual citizenship from France and Lebanon.

Currently residing in the Emirate of Dubai, a place where east meets west featuring one of the most steadfast fashion and retail sectors globally.  Dubai has become the perfect haven for Christelle to receive inspiration and in return inspire fashionable ladies everywhere who share her love for fashion as a means of self-expression. Read on as we talk to Christelle about her love for fashion as well as her exciting life as a world traveler.

What is the inspiration for your unique style?

“Having been brought up between Europe and the Middle East, I find my mélange in upbringing has really shaped my style and the way I perceive and embody fashion. It’s the French simplicity, that little bit of chic, which is complemented by the boldness and intricacy of the Middle Eastern patterns.

Also, despite fashion trends being highly inspired by the looks on Fashion Weeks’ runways, I don’t believe that clothes have to be expensive to look expensive (and stylish of course). That’s why my blog serves as a little guide on how to make high-street fashion look high-end, and the key is accessorizing well! I sometimes “invest” in designer shoes or bags, but you will find that most (if not all) my clothes are high-street.

I’m always amused at friends and people’s reactions when they find out where I actually bought my clothes from, and how I paired the whole outfit together – which is what pushed me to actually start the blog in the first place. I try to make it as reachable as possible: if you like it, you can go and get it today, and you (hopefully) won’t have to pay and arm and a leg for it.

To cut a long story short, I don’t think that one style defines me. Yes, I would describe my style as classic and feminine with a twist, but I normally dress depending on my mood and current street styles that inspire me.”

Talk me through a day in your life.

“I’m someone who loves mornings, and sunny Dubai definitely helps! Getting ready for work, as ordinary as it may seem, is something I truly enjoy. It gives me the energy and sets the tone for the rest of the day. The latter never starts without a much-needed espresso, followed by my skincare routine, after which I choose my outfit (favorite part), do my hair and makeup and I’m ready to go. Despite having a corporate job, no day in the office is like the other, especially when I instantly dive in the world of beauty and cosmetic at L’Oréal.

After work, I either have dinner or drinks with friends, attend corporate PR events or go home and work on a post.

I’m always excited about the weekend because this is when I really have the time and opportunity to create content for the blog. I normally do photo shoots in different locations with several outfits to post the following week, meet with young designers for future collaborations or simply research strategies on how to improve the blog.

It can be challenging to have only limited time to work on the blog, but loving what I do definitely helps and makes it a whole lot of fun!”

What are you currently inspired by? 

“In my case, it’s who I’m currently inspired by: Olivia Palermo.

Yes, her outfits may be on the more ‘pricey end’, but I feel that she really embodies elegance with a twist. Her ability to mix color and print while making it look effortlessly chic is extremely inspiring. She keeps up with trends yet maintains this classic, feminine and timeless look which I can very much relate to. In fact, as much as I am inspired by current trends and street styles, if I don’t think that the “must-have” for this season is in line with my personal style, you will never see me wearing it.”

What are some of your favorite clothing brands at the moment?

“I absolutely adore Victoria Beckham’s designs, especially her monochrome looks. While her collections have evolved over the past few years from short and playful dresses to oversized wide-legged trousers, there is always one common thread which can be found when describing the Victoria Beckham woman: her fierceness. Can’t wait to try her layering techniques spotted on the 2017 Fall/Winter runway.

When it comes to high-street, most of my wardrobe comes from Zara, so it’s safe to say that it’s one of my favorite high-street brands at the moment, along with Topshop and Mango”

What do you enjoy most about your role at L’Oréal, did you always aspire for a career in the cosmetic industry? 

“Given my love for fashion, most people first assume that I work in Marketing for L’Oréal, when I actually work as a Financial Controller. At the end of the day, our favorite brands would not survive if they weren’t financially profitable, and that’s what my main role at L’Oréal is: actively partnering with marketing teams to ensure that brands are lucrative, so that you can not only find the products you like in store, but also benefit from the newest and most innovative ones. By being in Dubai, I am by default led to work in a very diverse environment – 48 different nationalities to be exact. We all learn from one another on both a personal and professional level, and new ideas are always brought to the table.

What I enjoy most about my role at L’Oréal is working side by side with teams of brilliant people who continuously work on introducing the best of cosmetics innovation. This constant desire to keep up with current trends can have its challenges, but is quickly overruled by the rush of working in a fast-paced environment: no day is like the other and you always have to be reactive and ready to go – with one mission in mind: “Beauty for all!”.

I also must add that loving the brands and products I work for does make it easier, although I didn’t necessarily aspire for a career in the cosmetic industry. I however always knew that I wanted to work in beauty, in whichever form it takes: fashion, cosmetic etc. I believe that every woman should feel beautiful. A woman who feels beautiful will feel good about herself, and there’s nothing more appealing than a confident woman!”

Being a frequent traveler, what have been some of your favorite destinations and why?

“Tough question! I love traveling and each country is unique in its culture, climate, history, landscape, gastronomy and people. But if I had to choose my top 3, I’d choose: Cappadocia (Turkey), Cancun (Mexico) and Paris (France). I had already been to Turkey (Marmaris, Bodrum and Istanbul). I definitely loved each of these unique cities but Cappadocia was by far the most magical in my eyes. I actually first came across pictures of Cappadocia on Instagram, and I remember thinking that this couldn’t be a real place; this photo must have been photo-shopped.

I then decided that my next holiday destination would be to Cappadocia, and believe me it’s still hard to put into words how fascinating I thought the place is. The natural landscape, volcanic peaks and chimney-rock formations are unlike anything I’ve seen. The experience of sleeping in a cave hotel was just incredible, but the cherry on top of the cake was the sunrise hot air balloon ride, where I found myself staring at the real-life picture I had once seen on Instagram.

Cancun needs no introduction. Definitely a great place to party and let loose but that’s not why I fell in love with this city. The second you arrive to Cancun, you immediately feel like you’ve just landed on a tropical island. Palm trees, jungles and greenery surround you; white sand beaches and crystal clear waters also adding to the magic.

While it’s very common to stay in all-inclusive resorts, there’s so much to discover in Cancun: the famous Chichen Itza and Mayan history, beautiful caves and lagoons where you can swim and snorkel, and most importantly, interactions with the sweet locals who taught more about their culture than any book I had ever read. Cancun has it all: rich history, parties and beautiful scenery!

And finally, the best for last: Paris. I might be a little biased since I was born and lived in Paris, but this city simply stole my heart. Every time I go back to Paris and step out of my doorstep, I feel like I’m a tourist discovering it for the first time: my five senses are awakened and ready to be blown away by the beauty of this city. I seriously feel like I’m in a living museum. Any picture I take from any angle looks like it’s out of a post card.

What I enjoy most is getting lost in tiny paved pathways in the Marais and finding hidden treasures in local boutiques, arousing my taste buds at the “café trottoirs” or having a glass of wine by the Seine.

Paris lives up to its reputation: the City of love, light and a certain je ne sais quoi.”

Favorite Restaurant in Beirut & Dubai?

“Beirut has an amazing selection of restaurants offering all kinds of cuisines but my favorite Restaurant in Beirut is “Em Sherif”. I always take my foreign friends, choose the set menu and make sure we all go on an empty stomach. I don’t allow myself not to taste literally everything they serve me. From the authentic and delicious Lebanese food to the elegant atmosphere and décor, one can never go wrong with Em Sherif!

Dubai is known to host the most lavish and luxurious restaurants in the world, but my favorite is a cute bistro offering traditional French cuisine: “Tolosa”. I recently discovered this restaurant and it quickly jumped to 1^st place in my favorites list. At Tolosa, I can close my eyes, pick anything on the menu, and rest assured that I will enjoy every single bite from the entrées to the dessert. What’s also special about this place is this couch area where I normally either enjoy coffee or a glass of wine while playing board games with my friends. Tolosa is a taste of home away from home.”

Where to next?

“My work schedule has without a doubt made it challenging to create content for the blog as regularly as I would want, but I definitely plan on putting in place a clear strategy on the direction I want the blog to take. I will try as much as possible to post more consistent and relevant content to hopefully keep inspiring women on their daily looks and styles. On the long-term, I hope that the blog, along with my experience at L’Oréal, would allow me to put my name out in the fashion industry: maybe become a personal stylist and/or create my own brand. Who knows? In all cases, as cliché as it may sound, my passion is fashion & beauty, so it’s the only industry I see myself in.”

Where can we follow you?

“You can follow me on instagram @christellekhouri where I try to post as regularly as possible.”