StyleShaker | Daily Dish | designer insider

Daily Dish - designer insider

Nanette Lepore

Go to Glam.com to read a daily journal highlighting the good and bad of fashion week byNanette Lepore .

"This type of real time online re-cap is a sure sign of the times. Designers want to place a fresh spin on both their PR efforts and business model."

"Designers like the freedom of selling direct. It affords the possibilities of higher profit margins and more creative freedoms. Not to mention, an improved direct sale model allowing each designer to stay in touch with their followers/shoppers to create the perfect feedback loop placing brand equity directly back into their label... not a mega retailer, which seems to be wrapped-up in a constant state of consolidation." - Beth Lambert, Editor-in-Chief

Blah Blah Blah - Either way it is entertaining to be in-the-know. Here is a quotable from the designer directly following the always exhausting fashion week.

Well, that’s a wrap for Fashion Week. I hope you all had fun seeing how unglamorous it can be behind-the-scenes. I’ve already started all the preparations for Coterie (a big fashion trade show) that is ever-so-conveniently scheduled right after Fashion Week.

The Coterie - we were there. An a quick glance through her booth and collection screamed texture, flirty silhouettes, and unmatched range of color (that other designers shy from). leaving us to say - YEP that is signature Lepore.

Shop Austin: Valentine's Too, by George, Garden Room

Favorite Feature: This designer has a true universality. Worn by both the cute (Jennifer Garner in 13 going on 30) to the ever-confident sex vixen (Sarah Jessica Parker in Sex and the City). Sold in Nanette Lepore shoppes all around the world. Dedicated to a strong point of view and true spirit consistently shown in each and every collection.

Noted for her love and devotion to her family and friends. We wanted to show her with daughter Violet following the ready to wear runway show.

designer insider
posted - beth / 8:24 PM / 02.21.06

J Brand

So you are a single girl with zero reasons to keep up with the JONES. Infact your current neighbor is far from owning two cars and raising a fam. I mean really, he can't even seem to get out of his pjs much less influence your personal clothing choices.

Yep it is you and you alone who stands on her own independent feet. Un-phased by the current denim snobbery which defines a girl by her back pocket. Holding status quo is so done. Leaving Girls on-the-Go to flock to new denim lines such as the discreet J Brand.

Most recently featured in In Style and Luck Mag, J Brand holds its own among the premium denim high rollers. Worn by Denise Miller and Angelina Jolie, this line, with zero junk-in-the trunk (back pocket craziness), will allow you to make your own statement.

Shop Austin: Kick Pleat

Shop Online: Ron Herman, Shop Intuition, Girl Shop, Famous Fashions Found, Ravin Style

Special Offer: Take adavantage of the Lukcy Mag's - Lucky Breaks and win a Set of (3) J Brand jeans.

(image source: J Brands)

designer insider , online finds
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 02.16.06

Doo Ri

Bio: Doo Ri

Parson School of Design - worked with Donna Karan and Stanely Herman

1995 - 2001 Geoffrey Beane

2001 - Debuted her label at Klee a New York boutique which she co-owned

2003 - Debuted her first line at the Fall/Winter New York Ready-to-Wear Fashion Week

This designer worn by the likes of Eva Longoria has made an incredible splash at fashion week. The Doo Ri collection is sought out by those who love the sophisication but seeks something new and undiscovered.

Shop Austin: Sorry not in Austin yet - Nordstrom - Dallas, Fourty-Five Ten- Dallas

Shop Online: Net-a-Porter, Ron Herman, Barney's

Favorite Feature: If you take the time to find this deisgner, bam - you have created your own "uncharted" signature style.

designer insider
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 02.16.06

Tracy Reese

Bio: Tracy Reese is a designer / business guru cornering the market on "Femine Chic". This seven year veteran continues to create collections filled with all things perfect for the "modern women who simply loves being a girl." A graduate of Parson’s School of Design, she has honed her practical design skills.

Beginning with her namesake label Tracy Reese seven years ago, this self-taught and well-educated talent takes very business possibility seriously. Creating new opportunities at every turn. Just two years ago, she extended her signature style to start Plenty by Tracy Reese and Plenty by Tracy Reese Home sold at Anthropologie.

Online Shop: edressme.com, saks.com, bergdorfgoodman.com, neimanmarcus.com
Shop Austin: by George, Valentine's Too
Top Sellers: Omate Silk Floral Print Top, $238.00.
Favorite Feature: This designer's site is a solid piece of eye candy. Providing the perfect way to preview the namesake collection or her spin off label under Tracy Reese Plenty.
Trend Factor: +2 (mT)

designer insider
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 02.14.06

Sneak-A-Peek

Sneak-A-Peek with your fashion week recap.

We will go day by day to talk you through the behing the scenes look at the Ready to Wear Collections for 2006.

designer insider
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 02.10.06

Designer - Jenni Kayne

Our Notes: We first noticed Jenni Kayne in September 2005 at the New York Cotorie. Her 2005 Fall Collection filled with of deep saturated hues of navy, charcoal grays and mossy greens leaves many on lookers to think black is sometime of an after thought and others to ask - What will she come up with this Spring?

The answer is a very uncomplicated and different approach to dressing. Each piece within her Spring 2006 collection drapes the form but never binds or cinches. Her choice of free flowing fabrics working with not against natural beauty is somehow displayed in a type of new signature style.

Designer Bio: "With education and practical experience on her side, Jenni showed her first collection for Fall 2003. Her commitment to design and production was captured in a debut that garnered favorable reviews and significant retail attention. Moreover, Jenni used this first collection to define the principles that would drive the evolution of her line."

Stay tuned we will let you know...where to shop and buy this designer soon enough...

(image source: NY Times Fashion Week coverage)

designer insider
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 02.08.06

Karanina

Bio: Started in the Spring of 2004, "Karanina satisfies the sophisticated and social urban woman with a hidden desire to express her girlish ways." The fashion forward design line of Kara Smith and Nina Firestone have created a truly complete line of "flirty yet classy feminine tops, dresses and seperates that perfectly suit the chic fashion forward Karanina woman."

Shop Austin: The Girl Next Door
Shop Online: Shopbop, Neiman Marcus, Testimo Boutique, Pink Stilletto Shop, Shop Aholic.se, Bluebee Online, Blondette, and Couture Candy.
Favorite Pick: Convertible Halter Dress
Favorite Feature: The strong designer direct online picture books of the complete head to toe styled outfits are exciting and fun.

designer insider
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 02.01.06

Pink Tartan

Bio: We first eyed the Pink Tartan label, an amazing new collection of contemporary sportswear, at the NYC Apparel Market.

The Kimberely Newport the Canadian design talent behind this up and coming line “builds timeless wardrobes of elegance and femininity”. An since its 2004 United States Fall debut, Pink Tartan continues to inch its way into the closets of those sophisticated socialites who prefer such classic designers as Ralph Lauren and Daine von Furstenberg.

Most importantly, the Spring/Summer 2006 collection seems to originate from an uncomplicated concept to form very smart sophisticated designs soon to be found all across America.

Shop Austin: Saks
Shop Online: Saks
Favorite Pick: Polk-a-Dot Silk Deck Dress (shown)
Favorite Feature: The Spring/Summer '06 collection is extremely wearable. In fact, the versatility of each piece has In style, Bazaar, Shop etc. incorporating the Pink Tartan signature style in to many of their featured outfits.

The Arbor , designer insider
posted - beth / 9:00 AM / 01.30.06

Rock & Republic

Bio: "Rock N Republic means edgy, progressive denim inspired by Rock & Roll and with an emphasis on modern silhouettes and a sleek fit! Each piece in the collection is designed for sexy, confident men and women who live the lifestyle and really understand the look." (source: rockandrepublic.com)

Shop Austin: Girl Next Door, Physical Fit
Shop Online: eluxury.com,Nordstrom
Favorite Pick: Banshee Stretch Jean, $163.00
Favorite Feature: This jean has the corner on the slim fit. It helps those girls who have zero hips and need to "create" a tush.

designer insider
posted - beth / 6:00 AM / 01.25.06

Wyeth by Todd Magill

The Styleshaker Crew would like to join the likes of Instyle, Lucky Mag, Elle and Gen Art to highlight Wyeth by Todd Magill.

Bio: Todd Magill, a west coast transplanet debuted his first collection in the Autumn/Winter of 2004. Mr. Magill's philosophy "is to create clothing that can stand the test of time. to create unique styles with thoughtful detailing and finishing". Most recently featured in Elle as the "One to Watch", Wyeth by Todd Magill has made a strong imprint. Leaving us to wonder, what is to come...

Online Shop: good things are hard to find...
Shop Austin: by George
Top Sellers: Sneak a Peek We selected the Crinkle Chiffon dress with Smoking Detail in Vanilla from the Summer '06 collection.
Favorite Feature: The designer site delivers a complete snap shot of the upcoming Spring and Summer collections. We love the relaxed wearable pieces of deep saturated colors nicely set in amazing texture and fabrics.
Trend Factor: +2 (mT)

designer insider
posted - beth / 10:45 AM / 01.17.06

Deborah Sweeney

Introducing the very talented Deborah Sweeney. This New Zealand "wonder from down under" is the start of a new type of influx of wearable foreign influenced fashion.

Ms. Sweeney's smart ensembles of romantic casual silk blouses and dresses all layered with flirty cardigans (or not) has earned her a solid place on our short A-list.

We first met this up-n-comer in person back in September at the Fall| Winter Cotorie. She had us hooked at "hello". For now you can preview her latest collection online or travel to Chicago, L.A, NY, or San Francisco. Coining the phrase- good things are hard to find

Daily Dish , designer insider
posted - beth / 10:40 PM / 01.03.06

Poleci at Capra Cavelli

Shop Carpa Cavelli for Poleci. The Polcei name founded fifteen years ago, by the West Coast tag-team sister duo of Daine Levin and Janice Levin-Krok, has transformed itself into a solid collection known for its "Clean, crisp silhouettes and an attention to detail". Each seasonal collection: includes Poleci leather, sweater knits, and dresses. Attracting a more fashion-forward woman.

designer insider
posted - beth / 7:53 AM / 12.30.05

Tory Burch

Read up and take note. This designer is so solid. The Tory Burch collection noted for its "original look for the style-conscious woman who might be aware of the trends but does not rely on them" has my vote for the strongest ready to wear newcomer of 2006. Don't take my word for it, Tory burch is generating a LOVE FEST among those editors at Instyle, W, WWD and many more.

With only two years under her belt, Ms. Burch is sure to continue to generate even more buzz. You can find this line at Bergdorf Goodman, and select Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.

designer insider
posted - beth / 10:26 AM / 12.19.05

Halle Berry in Salt

Shop HEM for this perfect denim look. To complete Halle’s look, we recommend buying a pair of Salt Mulberry | Slick Wash jeans for $126.00 from Hem. The clean wash and relative low price makes this find perfect for those shopping for a more sophisticated look. An why not match the jeans to the Alice + Trixie Crop Jacket in Green from Estilo.

as seen in/on , designer insider
posted - beth / 4:32 PM / 12.16.05

Cameron Diaz in Parameter

Parameter has reinvented this skirt for the Fall. The solid mix of orange, yellow, and coco browns makes this skirt an excellent addition to your closet. You can find this skirt at Estilo. It can be worn with just about anything this Fall|Winter. May we suggest layering the Emix Cami, $38.00. the Hidnyg Gathered Sly Top Mustard or the Alice and Trixie Cropped Jacket for $322.00. both found at Estilo on Second Street.

as seen in/on , designer insider
posted - beth / 4:27 PM / 12.16.05

Cat Swanson

With only two years under her belt, Cat Swanson's themed Fall Collection "Queen of Spades" sets this Texas native apart from the rest.

Her collection captures all that is a "IT" this Fall and Winter. With Russian influences, regal silk bouses, tuxedo-like ribbon accents, and amazing fur coverlets throughout the whole line. Any girl, posh enough to wear a Cat Swanson piece will be noticed.

Take a look for yourself, Cat Swanson original pieces can be found and purchased on one of my favorite sites.

designer insider
posted - beth / 4:15 PM / 12.16.05

Frankie B at Hem

Frankie B’s designer and owner Daniella Clarke has named her denim line after her daughter Frankie. This west Coast designer who started out of her garage proposes "The collection is sexy and body conscious. Jeans make a woman feel sexy, strong, feminine and casual at the same time."

Don’t forget to Shop Hem for the designer and the look.

West End , designer insider
posted - beth / 7:05 PM / 12.15.05

People's Liberation

Shop Hem on the edge of West End for those new must- have denim lines.

People's Liberation is the new pocket on the backside of both men and women. This L.A. Label boosts the best fabrics and look for both tees and denim. Whether it is the soft feel of its fleece, piqued tees or the perfect combination of Tincel and Lyrca. You will be reassured of the promised comforted quality fit every time you wear a pair.

designer insider
posted - beth / 4:07 PM / 12.15.05

Elis Atheniense

Shop Kick Pleat for the Elsia Atheniense.. This Brazilian inspired designer has an excellent flair for the everyday women. This handbag is perfect for the southern girl toting any and everything under the sun.

designer insider
posted - beth / 4:06 PM / 12.15.05

Runway Roadshow

You can find Hudson, Paper Denim, and Salt and many more popular designers for 50% or more off retail at the Runway Roadshow. The event will be held on December 1 from 12-8 pm at Mercury Hall (615 Cardinal Lane) located on the corner of S. First and Cardinal Lane between Ben White Blvd. and Oltorf.

This event was bought to you by Legarage Sale Productions. Go to the Le Garage site to get more infoon upcoming sales.

designer insider , sample sales
posted - beth / 3:30 PM / 12.15.05

Salt

Style sprinkled with SALT
By Kelly Carter, Special for USA TODAY

NEW YORK — SALT is shaking up the closets of women and men from Manhattan to Hollywood.

Jessica Simpson, Katie Holmes, Claire Danes, Alicia Keys, Uma Thurman, Kelly Ripa and some of the cast of Desperate Housewives and The O.C. are among those to add some SALT to their wardrobes.

Designed by New Yorkers for New Yorkers (thus added pockets for MetroCards, which are used for subways and buses), the SALT denim line was launched last year, and the styles are named after streets in Manhattan. Danes recently requested St. Mark's, a low-rise straight-leg that has turned into the hottest style for the fall. She also wore Mulberry Street, a medium-rise boot cut, to NBC's Hurricane Katrina benefit in September. Keys sported an Orchard Street jacket and Mulberry Street pants to a Food Bank for New York City event in October. This summer, Simpson wore a pair of Avenue A jeans to her birthday party, and Holmes wore SALT jeans to a magazine interview.

What's the appeal? SALT's four designers, all 30 and former employees at Levi's, AG and Paper Denim, go for a less-is-more approach and pride themselves on a clean, sophisticated design and sexy fit.

"We don't follow trends," says designer Victoria Allen. "We want our customers to define their style. Our jeans are a tool for their self-expression."

Costume designers have taken to SALT. Melinda Clarke and Benjamin McKenzie wear them on The O.C. Teri Hatcher wore her Avenue As on Housewives.

SALT owner Salomon Smeke says, "Women rebelled against the low-rise craze and wanted to wear jeans that showed off their curves, without showing off too much."

Men, too, have a taste for SALT. McKenzie is partial to Essex Street, a low-rise, straight leg while Housewives' Jesse Metcalfe favors Bedford Street, a low-rise boot cut.

The collection, which includes pants, jackets, vests and skirts that range from $120 to $175, is sold at Barneys, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's and other stores. *An for help and an Austin selection shop Hem. For more information on SALT, visit www.swjeans.com.

designer insider
posted - beth / 3:23 PM / 12.15.05

Paige Denim

West Coast Denim Designer In the News

(LOS ANGELES, Sept.2004)-Paige Adams Geller has established a name for herself as the most-requested fit model for the hottest denim brands. After a decade of behind-the-seams experience, she's establishing her name again-as a brand. Paige Premium Denim debuts in Spring 2005 and represents the ideology, insight and innovation of the designer.

She gained experience and knowledge in the industry, and her denim clients began valuing her for more than physical assets. While other models stood mute as mannequins during fit sessions, Paige contributed feedback-about fit and fabric and hardware-that improved the design of jeans and made her the most-requested fit model for Seven, Citizens of Humanity, Guess and Blue Cult.

Voted the most flattering jean by IN STYLE magazine July 2005.

designer insider
posted - beth / 3:20 PM / 12.15.05

Know Your Denim

In wardrobing a investment piece is considered anything which costs over $200.00. An who invests in anything without a little google/research. I know research takes time, a luxury not always afforded to a savvy girl On-the-Go. Alright understood, we have taken the steps to research and select three of the hottest denim labels for those in their 20s and 30's and above.

For those youthful girls in their twenties we recommend: Paige Denim, True Religion, Joe Jeans. An for the more sophisticated girls in their thirties and beyond should select the Salt, Red Engine, and 575.

Daily Dish , designer insider , online finds
posted - beth / 3:09 PM / 12.15.05

lillap.com

This season Lillap.com has a complete collection of light long sleeve shirts with beautiful colors and in every style. This designer tucked in the Meat Packing District of New York City offers uniquely styled shirts are all designed and created under philosophy of simplicity and value.

Watch out, James Perse, Gennerra, and Splendid. There is a new kid on the block.

Take a look my favorite and newest purchase is perfect.

designer insider , online finds
posted - beth / 2:56 PM / 12.15.05

Spring Has Sprung

That is right, Winter hasnt even began yet. But Spring Has Sprung all the Milan and New York Fashion Weeks were exciting.

The Gap Press published by Pret-A-Porter highlighting the 2006 Spring & Summer Milan and New York fashion weeks pin-points the following themes influencers for the upcoming Spring season. Take note each theme is sure to influence the new trends on the street this coming Spring.

New Minimalism

Romantic White

What A Waist

Pleats & Ruffles

Pure & Crisp

’60s Geometric & Flowers

designer insider , out-n-about
posted - beth / 2:52 PM / 12.15.05

Rebecca Sanver at Ven Shoe Salon

Shop Ven Shoe Salon in Davenport Village for the exclusive line of Rebecca Sanver. Rebecca Sanver is a women's, elegant, fashion-driven shoe line from Alicante, Spain. The brand was founded in 1987 by Jose Sanchis, the owner and head designer. The style/design philosophy is to dress women's feet for every moment of the day. In order to deliver on that objective, Rebeca Sanver produces a comprehensive range of shoe categories -- casual, formal, semi-formal, boots, and bridal. Their use of Italian leathers and textiles from their own textile mills keeps Rebeca Sanver spot on the fashion trends for all seasons. They have consistently led the trends of the European footwear market; however, 2005 is the first year they have focused their attention on the US market. Rebeca Sanver's high quality, precise execution and prophetic grasp on fashion trends is an unparalleled fashion force. Spring 2006 will be exhibiting styles and materials with components and inspiration from middle-eastern and Persian imagery, python printed leather and linen combinations, textured grain leathers, wooden foot beds and even deer antler high-heels.

Davenport Village , designer insider
posted - beth / 2:35 PM / 12.15.05

Pley Contends

pley (with the umlat over the e) is a relative newcomer to the footwear industry. It is in it's fourth and best season thus far. Also made entirely by Spanish artisans, this sporty-casual comfort line offers women everyday shoes in a few simple categories: wood bottom, boots, flat sandals, and cork bottom shoes. The “pleyful” execution of this collection offers the wearer excellent fit, superb quality and timeless design. This line is quickly being picked-up by stores like Otto Tootsie Plohound in NYC, City Sole in Chicago, and Emphatic at Fred Segal in Santa Monica. pley is certainly giving brands like Cordani and Mephisto a run for their money!

designer insider
posted - beth / 2:29 PM / 12.15.05

Helpful Hints - Rae Cosmetics

Rochelle Rae is the makeup Artist to Austin’s A-List. Her studio located on W. 3rd St. is always a buzz with brides to be, pre-show models, and the occasional friendly “drop byes’. Her studio is a true reflection of the philosophy of beauty: pure and simple behind her mineral based cosmetic line.

Drop by or go to raecosmetics.com to purchase the all-in-one Line N' Lacquer or add a bit of summer to your winter with the customized to you Bronzing Palette Compact.

designer insider
posted - beth / 11:48 AM / 12.13.05

West Coast Design Duo

Ursula Dean and Noami Powers have fused their pattern making and art history expertise to create a very practical line of everyday “ready to wear” clothes.

These West Coast girl’s unique pieces have caught the interest of the Instyle Editors. An although, this line has not made it to your local favorite shop doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be the first to purchase you own piece. Go directly to their very limited but cool online shop.

Online Shop: Modaspia

Top Sellers: Fiji Dress, $100.00. Each dress is made from a man’s t-shirt and embellished with a vibrant hand paint signature art making each piece stand on its own strong unique statement.

Favorite Feature: The models aren’t over styled and the clothes aren’t over done.

Trend Factor: +1

designer insider , online finds
posted - beth / 11:43 AM / 12.13.05

Lewis Cho at Estilo

These two Anne Sui protégés, Annie Lewis and Helen Cho, have formed a solid design team under Lewis Cho. Known for their subtle touches of brilliance representing all that is comfortable and elegant.
Previewed on Vogue and W online. The 2006 lines promises great new pieces to add to your ever growing closet.

Shop Online: lewischo.com

Shop Austin: Estilo

Top Sellers: The Wool Jersey Babydoll Dress, $215.00

Favorite Feature: The lewis cho siteis simple and informative is simple and easy to purchase directly online. The line is uncomplicated and very wearable.

Trend Factor: +1

Second St. District , designer insider
posted - beth / 11:19 AM / 12.13.05

Over Exposed

Have you ever seen a woman who enters the room and her choice of outfit spurs stares and comments? It is a simple case of inappropriate overexposure. Overexposure sends the wrong message to the opposite sex and creates awkward moments between women.

Why not focus on a more understated alternative. A backless choice is an elegant option and never sends the wrong message. Shop Shiki Downtown for this ultra sexy but very appropriate Rachel Roy, Karlonia Dress, $389.00 perfect for an evening on the town.

Daily Dish , designer insider
posted - beth / 10:47 AM / 12.13.05

These Boots are Made for Walking

Shop Ven Shoe Salon for their exclusive line of Rebecca Savner. This “boot of the season” is the prefect example of how this designer needs to be added to your short A-list. Whether you love the quality or her unbelievable ability to incorporate functional embellishments. You have to love the fact that you wont find this line in every department or on every other girl’s foot.

We selected this season’s Rebecca Sanver, Black Boot for $384.00. As a perfect example of the designers true talent.

Davenport Village , designer insider
posted - beth / 10:41 AM / 12.13.05

Naughty but Nice at Shiki

Shop Shiki Downtown for this ultra sexy Rachel Roy, Karlonia Dress, $389.00. Perfect for an evening on the town.

Complete this Naughty Little Black Dress with a pair of sophisticated Calvin Klein Black and Sliver Sandal Heels for $415.00, from Ven Shoe Salon in Davenport Village.

This look is sure to set the tone for the date, the evening, and all the nonstop attention.

Second St. District , designer insider
posted - beth / 10:17 AM / 12.13.05

NYC Style at Estilo

Shop Estilo for this amazing dress worn by Claire Daines, to the New York premiere of Shop Girl. This sea green velvet dress from ABS, $437.00 is simply stunning. An note, this great deep saturated hue is a perfect option for those holiday parties.

It’s a style tragedy Claire didn’t have these Rebecca Sanver embellished green velvet heels, $265.00 from Ven Shoe Salon to polish her look.

Second St. District , designer insider
posted - beth / 9:57 AM / 12.13.05

Designer Remix at Estilo

Shop Estilo in the Second Street District to get this Girl On-the-Go look. This ready to wear outfit promises an effortless day to night transition meeting the needs of your never-ending social calendar.

Simply start with these red and black, checkered pants from Designer Remix, $ 159.00 and match with the Ambre Babzoe Beaded Crossover Halter, $268.00. We love the each piece for its wear ability. Ranking this outfit low on the MegaTrend Scale (mT) and high on sophisticated style.

Second St. District , designer insider
posted - beth / 9:41 AM / 12.13.05

Rachel Roy at Shiki

Shop Shiki Downtown for this ultra sexy Rachel Roy, Karlonia Dress, $389.00 for the perfect evening on the town.

Complete this dress with a pair of sophisticated Calvin Klein Black and Sliver Sandal Heels for $415.00, from Ven in Davenport Village.