Marc Jacobs Changes Everything ... Again

February 6, 2014, 2:53 pm

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Looks like the Marc Jacobs brand as we know it will soon be a thing of the past.

In an interview with W magazine, Jacobs opens up about the company's loss of identity, his decision to stop working with longtime photographer Juergen Teller, and what is arguably the most shocking news of all -- his plans to change the name of his "Marc By Marc Jacobs" line, which he admits he's "always hated."

Jacobs acknowledges that there is always some sort of madness surrounding him. He made headlines back in 2013 when he cut ties from Louis Vuitton after 16 years, and this bold move is sure to create some buzz as well. The 50-year-old designer is comfortable being unsettled, as long as it's not always for the same reason. "So long as it’s a fresh hell, and not the same old hell, you know? The same old hell would just be boring," he said.

Sounds like he is ready for a big change, and we can't wait to see the new collection. The only question is -- what are supposed to call it?

He's come a long way:



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7 Places to Eat, Drink, and Avoid the Cold During New York Fashion Week

February 6, 2014, 2:59 pm

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Evidently, the Polar Vortex wears Prada.

The world's top designers, editors, stylists, PR firms, and aspiring fashionistas planned every last detail of New York Fashion Week months in advance. Then detail upon detail fell apart when the first snowflake landed on Lincoln Center. Cancelled flights? Black ice? Blizzards? The Polar Vortex probably pushed out stilettos from this week's lookbook (were they even a contender?). There will be fewer "woman on the street" images of style icons popping in and out of shows with famous faces and labels exposed for cameras. Those that are published will surely be blurry from the shivering.

Of course, the shows will go on, but plan on sticking close and comfortable on the black-icy streets surrounding Lincoln Center. Avoid trips for downtown dinners and forget about popping into little SoHo cafés unless you like the subway in couture. Scoring a round-trip cab will be, in a word, impossible.

Here is the good news: there are plenty of options to unearth in the immediate surrounding area. While others flock to the standards, here are some suggestions off the Time Warner Center's beaten path. These are smart, overlooked, and highly fashionable dining alternatives:

For a breakfast pastry or afternoon pick-me-up: Tiny little Pain d'Epice (formerly Soutine Bakery) is ready with impossibly beautiful little cakes and flaky pain au chocolat that you'll burn off during the three-block walk back to 66th.

For cocktails with a view: Head to Per Se Lounge at 5:30. No earlier, no later. This is when the lounge opens and the velvet couch facing a picture-window over Columbus Circle is sure to be free. No reservations can be made in the lounge, so if you arrive at 5:45, someone will have probably beaten you to it -- though the rest of the lounge is lovely and the staff is unparalleled. And if you feel peckish, indulge in a course or two from the same menu that is served in the dining room.

For a glass of wine or small plate: Try Bin 71. Their old- and new-world wines are a refreshing departure from other ho-hum lists. Start your night with a sparkling Austrian rose or go with a food-friendly Spanish Albarino or French Gigondas to accompany their small plates.

For a simpler, quieter dinner: Everyone knows Jean-Georges, the Michelin-starred icon that one books well in advance, but ever heard of Nougatine? It's a lovely little café, quiet and stylish, tucked into the same Trump Tower but at fraction of the price. The lobster-burger is killer.

For a big table with less-than-horrifying wait: Try PJ Clarkes. It's what Don Draper would do. There may be a wait at peek times, but this enormous space expands and winds through floors and rooms and nooks that lesser drinkers would miss. P.S.: there is a second bar tucked into the back of the basement.

For hearty steak frites or cassoulet: Café Luxembourg is as much of a NYC institution as the area knows. Sit at the shiny stainless bar for the best martini this neighborhood has ever shaken. Chose a table with fingers crossed and you just might end up in a banquette next to Lauren Michaels and Tina Fey. (That happened last week!)

For all those assistants trying to grab a bite whenever they can: Epicerie Boulud. This place is bound to be outrageously crowded at mealtimes, but they're usually open from 7-11, and chances are you're not going to have time for a sit-down meal, anyway.



Christina Loccke is a freelance writer, former Upper West Sider, and media consultant to cooper & ella.

Find out more from her blog: Sexy Mother Foodie.

Richard Chai And Houghton Introduce The New Smokey Eye (PHOTOS)

February 6, 2014, 3:27 pm

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For the first few minutes backstage at Richard Chai's Fall 2014 show, we were convinced that our contact lenses were blurry. All the models' smokey eye makeup appeared unintentionally faded. But it turns out our vision was pretty clear.

Drawing inspiration from the leathers and earthy shades found in Chai's collection, makeup artist and Beauty.com Director-at-Large Romy Soleimani created a shimmery, velvety eye. "It's all about this cloud of sage green," she said. "I'm bringing in the hardness with the black liner and mascara." However, Kevyn Aucoin Loose Shimmer Shadow in jade is what really brought her vision to life.

Meanwhile, we spotted a similarly hazy, smokey eye on Houghton's Fall 2014 runway. MAC Cosmetics makeup artists smudged out the models' lids with charcoal eyeshadows and loads of black liner for a cloudy cat eye.

Check out these smokey eye looks below and if tell us if you like it better than the traditional version.

Richard Chai Fall 2014







Houghton Fall 2014








To get more New York Fashion Week updates, be sure to follow our live blog.



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Fashion Week Look Of The Day: Creatures Of Comfort's Oversized Coat Looks Damn Comfortable

February 6, 2014, 4:24 pm

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There are very few designers at New York Fashion Week who show pieces that are both inspirational and attainable, but Creatures of Comfort managed to achieve just that.

This season, designer Jade Lai was inspired by the movie "Clue" after hearing her friend's idea to throw a murder mystery-themed party. The color palette used featured lots of rich navy, hunter greens and, of course, plaids galore. To compliment the androgynous looks, the models sported windblown, low ponytails and clip-on bangs, courtesy of Hairstory. Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics handled the barely-there makeup application. The focus was on an inverse ombre lip, which was created by pressing Vintage Lip Tar in Black Dahlia into the center of the models' lips.

Though there were many outfits from the collection that we'd love to run out and buy, the one that stood out most was the first look of the show. The oversized blue cocoon coat, paired with a fitted black turtleneck dress, was the perfect juxtaposition of masculine and feminine. We were also pleased to see that flat shoes are still big in the fashion world (these sling-backs were a collab between Creatures of Comfort and LD Tuttle). The ensemble was finished off with an impossibly cool tassel hat and a pair of Illesteva sunglasses.

We were so impressed with Lai's latest collection, we don't need to see anymore Fall 2014 shows, we'll just take everything from this one!

PHOTO:



We have a feeling that next season's street style will feature a lot more oversized coats:



Want more? Be sure to check out HuffPost Style on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest and Instagram at @HuffPostStyle.

Not Even Slush Can Bring Down The Fashion At NYFW

February 6, 2014, 4:38 pm

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We were expecting to see chic editors in high heels wading through all the disgusting New York City slush today... but we should have known better. Day 1 of NYFW is about to end and we've been following our favorite Instagram accounts, waiting to see a pair of Manolos ruined, but obviously, the fashion crowd came prepared.

Regardless of the melted snow, there has been nothing but glitz and glam and Ladureé macarons on our feeds today. If you were bundled up in the office, check out everything you missed.





















It's only the beginning, but we're still expecting some royal appearances:



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Start Taking Action

February 7, 2014, 8:42 am

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Follow the conversation on Twitter and share a photo of yourself wearing red #RedSelfie.

As a cardiologist, if there's a message I could share with every woman during this American Heart Month, it would be to "start taking action on your own behalf right now."



I believe that many women underestimate the power they have to positively impact their personal cardiovascular health. Too many women remain unaware that by taking simple, everyday steps, they can substantially reduce their risk of developing heart disease. And there's a lot at stake, because heart disease is by far women's most deadly and most prevalent illness. It causes more deaths among women than all causes of cancer combined, and one in three women will develop it during their lifetime.



That's why I want women to know there's not a moment to lose, and a great deal to be gained by becoming their own leading health advocates. A proactive attitude is the key to making this happen. As women, we need to have the will to take action, because no one else is going to do it for us.



The scientific literature is replete with studies documenting the enormous benefits of healthy daily lifestyles. For example, in a landmark report by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health, women who maintained a healthy diet, weren't overweight, did not smoke, and exercised regularly, had an incidence of coronary events that was more than 80 percent lower than that in the rest of the population. Numbers like these offer irrefutable proof that women's leading health threat is, in fact, highly preventable.



These same healthy lifestyles are emphasized in the American Heart Association's "Effectiveness-Based Guidelines for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Women." In addition, the association's guidelines emphasize the importance of regular visits to the doctor to assess cardiovascular risk and determine the necessary steps to control risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol and elevated blood sugar levels.



Over the past 15 years, we've seen a steady and encouraging increase in women's awareness of heart disease and the importance of risk factor control. However, despite the overall trend, closer analysis reveals awareness discrepancies among women in some racial and ethnic groups and also among different age groups. We have to close these gaps. In a nation that becomes more diverse every day, we must do a better job of reaching ALL women with these simple and practical recommendations that can make a lifesaving difference.



In my practice, I see patients every day who are facing the consequences of heart disease. For many of them, heart disease could have been stopped in its tracks had they acted sooner. But the message of prevention arrived too late. Today, they would give anything for the chance to turn back the clock and take decisive action. That's why I hope every woman who reads this column will stop right now and give serious consideration to your own heart health. Sure, go ahead, and continue your efforts to prevent cardiovascular disease in your spouse, or children or even in your parents. But, let the effort begin with you! Begin each new day as a golden opportunity to build a healthier future.

This post is part of a series produced by The Huffington Post and the American Heart Association in recognition of National Wear Red Day (Feb. 7, 2014), the aim of which is to raise awareness that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. To read all the stories in the series, click here. And to follow the conversation on Twitter -- and share a picture of yourself wearing red -- find the hashtag #RedSelfie.

What Happened When I Took a Selfie With My Daughter

February 7, 2014, 8:50 am

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I recently saw this video on Facebook.

Selfie, directed by Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Cynthia Wade, reveals how we have the power to redefine what is beautiful in all of us. The video is part of the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty.

It made me think.

Minutes before watching it, I had been giving my husband Phil the hard sell on why I needed eyelash extensions: to distract from my "accordion eyes and Grinch-face." My daughters were not in the room, but we all know that doesn't matter. They hear everything.

Typically, I abstain from this kind of negative self talk around my kids, because I know it sticks. Phil and I consider "fat" and "diet" dirty words. My sister and I still tease my mom for saying repeatedly, "My sisters were so petite and I was born a size ____." A size, for what it's worth, she has yet to reach.

I remember the first time I watched a Dove Real Beauty commercial. It was 2006, and I was sitting on my couch watching the Super Bowl. When the commercial aired -- full of young, beautiful girls who hated the way they looked -- I cried. Sobbed, actually. My daughter Emma was 9 months old at the time, and the thought of her believing she was anything less than exquisite destroyed me.

But that's not why I was crying.

I was crying because, at age 29, thoughts of self-loathing ran through my mind all day long. I starved myself to get that baby weight off. And still, it was never enough. I was never enough. How am I going to teach Emma to love herself? I don't even know what that means.

Well, I had to learn. And I've come a long way. But not far enough.

Maybe it's the winter doldrums, a lack of sleep or my laziness about getting to yoga that's taken a toll on my self-image. My new uniform of a grocery store sweatshirt and reindeer leggings is not exactly sexy. Whatever the case, there has been a whole lot of negative self-talk rattling around in my head: My butt jiggles when I walk. If my left boob hung any lower I would trip over it. How is it possible to have zits and wrinkles simultaneously?

I asked Phil: "Do I put myself down... out loud?"

He paused. "Well, you don't come out and say 'I'm a hideous beast!' But you do tend to make these odd comparisons that are not exactly self-affirming."

"I do? Like what?"

"When we are going out to dinner, for example, you will say something bizarre, like:Do I look like the last clown in the clown car? Do I look like a bell boy? Do I look like a greeter at Walmart? Do I look like a Wookie? Do I look like a hostile transvestite?"

"Hmm. Yes, I guess I do say those things."

When I "poke fun at myself," I think I am being funny. But even seemingly harmless self-depricaiton carries the unmistakable tinge of truth. The truth that I am not good enough, exactly as I am. Even in reindeer leggings.

A teenage girl in Selfie says: "I think my mom's insecurities affect me a lot. When you hear her talk about her insecurities, you start to think about your own."

I asked Emma why she started smiling with her lips together.

"Because I hate my teeth," she said. "I stand in front of the mirror and practice smiling with my mouth closed."

She's 7.

So, we watched Selfie together. As the credits rolled Emma said: "Wow, that made me sad at first, but then end made me smile. That's a cool experiment."

"Do you want to try it?"

She raised one eyebrow. "What, like just you and me? Take selfies?"

"Sure, why not?"

"Well, because you hate getting your picture taken. Do you even know how to take a selfie?"

"I think I can figure it out."

She didn't look convinced. "Ok... let's do it."

She wasn't wrong to be skeptical. I do hate having my picture taken. When I try to take a photo with my phone and accidentally press that Reverse-Selfie button, I scream like I am being stabbed. Every. Single. Time.

In Selfie, the photographer says: "Your mom can redefine beauty, just like you can."

Redefining beauty through selfies? I wasn't convinced. ut I also compare myself to Chewbacca. My judgement could be off.

Taking a selfie did not feel natural nor intuitive. It made me feel like Justin Bieber. But printing and actually looking at the photo -- now that was an eye-opener. How often do you really look at your own face? And no, I don't mean in that special makeup mirror that magnifies your pores 5,000 times. I mean, really look, the way you look at your child's face when she is sleeping and think, how perfect is that little face?

Once I got over the initial GADZOOKS! response of seeing my own reflection, I started to really see. Not beyond my laundry list of imperfections, but beneath them -- like the way I look at a painting in a museum. Instead of noticing flaws and labeling them as "wrong," I just noticed. I asked:



Who is this person? What is her story? What is going on behind those eyes?

I wasn't a total purist. We had fun with filters and photo apps.

Why not? Just like fake eyelashes, hair color, or smokey eye makeup, it's fun to explore and try on different disguises. When I was a teenager, we did it with Manic Panic and black eyeliner. Now, there's an app for that. Blue hair that you don't have to grow out? Genius! In fact, we got so caught up in the possibilities that Emma forgot to hide her teeth.

But despite all the options for brightening or blurring or bronzing, it was this makeup, filterless, early morning selfie that changed how I see myself:

When I look at this photo, I see a mom, a wife, a friend, a daughter, a sister, an artist, a seeker. I see a person who is earnest, kind and loving. I see lines that come from laughing and worrying -- and from a few years of not taking the best care of myself. I see eyes that have seen hundreds of sleepless nights, nursing a baby or changing pukey sheets. I see a face that is grateful to be needed, to be loved, to have finally found a place in this world, and this place is right here, right now. I see peace. I see someone who does her best everyday to become a little bit more of who she truly is.

And that is beautiful.

That's a cop out, right?

OK, I'll say it: I am beautiful.

Now you try.

WATCH: Jillian Mercado, New Diesel Model, Smashes Stigma Associated With Disability

February 7, 2014, 9:36 am

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We first heard of Jillian Mercado when her edgy ads for Diesel came out back in January. The fashion blogger, who was born with muscular dystrophy and uses a wheelchair, immediately struck us with her beauty and ferocity.

Now we're learning that she is a pretty awesome person, too. The 23-year-old model spoke with HuffPost Live Wednesday to discuss her experience posing for Diesel (a whole new "magnitude of awesomeness"), her fears on set the day of and her inspirational outlook on life.

Landing a major ad campaign is a huge accomplishment for anybody, but Mercado is extremely clear about one thing -- she is every bit an able model as anyone else. "We have a stigma that we don't go out or we can't look beautiful which is not true," she said.

When asked about the reaction surrounding her new job, she admits that she has had to deal with some negativity. In an interview with The Daily Mail, she explains: "I know some people look at me and say" Oh wow, I can't believe you're doing this” and in my head I think, "Why don't you believe me?" I went to college, I did what everyone else did to follow their dreams.'"

While she acknowledges the fact that putting her photos up on social media may subject her to criticism, she has not allowed that fear to keep her from posting them. Not surprisingly, they have been hugely well received. After posting a photo from the campaign to her Instagram, she noted: "The overall response ‘was completely amazing."

Check out a clip above and to see the whole video, head over to HuffPost Live.

Style comes in all shapes and sizes:



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New Startup, Bevel, Wants To Rid Black Men Of Bad Haircare

February 7, 2014, 9:38 am

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Tristan Walker, former business developer for the social media app foursquare recently made news for his next start up. If you’re a black man who’s ever dealt with the dreaded razor bumps while shaving, then you should pay attention.

Bevel, is a men’s grooming service catered towards men of color. Walker is hoping to eliminate a problem that’s been plaguing the better part of his adult life.

New York Fashion Week Fall 2014 Beauty Street Style: The Best Hair From Day 1 (PHOTOS)

February 7, 2014, 10:02 am

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New York Fashion Week isn't just about the clothes. We also see some of the best beauty looks. So as our photographer/photo editor Raydene Salinas ventured out into the cold streets, she found hairstyles that transcend winter, taking our envy to infinity and beyond.

Makeup wise, there were a lot of radiant faces that focused on neutral, yet elegant colors. But the hair is what really caught our attention. From ombre locks adorned with the best beanies ever to HuffPost BlackVoices' fashion and beauty editor Julee Wilson's signature curly 'fro, these girls are serving some serious beauty street style.

And yes, we wouldn't mind a neon pink rinse or some badass blue-green strands. If you don't believe us, take a look, then get back to us.





More beauty street style:


For more fashion week coverage, make sure to follow our live blog.

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Carmen Carrera Profiled By CNN

February 7, 2014, 10:47 am

≫ Next: Cold-Weather Shoes for Fashion week!

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"A little more light!"

It's an early morning photo shoot for Glamour Magazine UK. There's a blizzard outside the window of Jack Studios in New York as the crew sets up in a flurry: Photographers meticulously adjust the lighting, makeup and hair artists arrange their bounty of brushes and stylists hang up racks upon racks of familiar names -- Ralph Lauren, DSquared2, Zac Posen, Helmut Lang, Agent Provocateur, Vivienne Westwood.

Cold-Weather Shoes for Fashion week!

February 7, 2014, 10:55 am

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The official kick-off of a super-chilly Fashion Week has begun. I normally brave the cold with my Seventeen Fashion team every February as we teeter in our heels up, down, and all around town to the shows, but so far this week has been different. I've been looking forward to taking my new Saint Laurent booties out for a spin but have been reduced to wearing the old, classic snow boots to get me through these ankle-high ice puddles! We aren't the only ones braving the brutal slush, ice, and wind. The options from some of fashion's fave street-style stars have pretty much stuck to these categories: fluffy, furry and oh-so-cozy inside, superstorm-snow protection, sleek leathers with a "what snow?" attitude, and the costume change (from boots to heels, of course).

I'll be staying bundled from head to toe all week (with lots of hot-chocolate breaks in between events), but no matter what category they fall under, the fashion peeps this season are getting more creative with their looks than ever before.

Of Course This Would Be Lena Dunham's Dream Ring

February 7, 2014, 11:18 am

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Lena Dunham has found her dream engagement ring.

And as you may have expected, her pick is anything but ordinary. The "Girls" star posted this photo on her Instagram Friday with the caption, "Found my dream engagement ring!!!"



Hint hint, wink wink, Jack Antonoff.

Keep in touch! Check out HuffPost Weddings on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

These Vintage Olympic Uniforms Will Make Your Day

February 7, 2014, 1:06 pm

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Every two years, millions of people tune in to catch the excitement of the Olympic Games. There's something so thrilling about the opening ceremonies -- maybe it's the balance of healthy competition and camaraderie that exists between the participating countries.

Of course, over at HuffPost Style, we've got our eyes on something a little more... sartorial. We are always wowed by the intricacy and boldness of the uniforms, which have become an integral part of the games over the years.

So in honor of Friday's opening ceremonies in Sochi, we're taking a look back at some of the best uniforms of the past. Because the only thing better than the Olympics is vintage Olympics.
















We love other uniforms, too:



Want more? Be sure to check out HuffPost Style on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest and Instagram at @HuffPostStyle.

25 Things a Woman Should Have by Her 30s

February 7, 2014, 1:10 pm

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Maybe it is because we are 1/12th done with 2014 already. Maybe it is because in 8 months I will be unarguably closer to 40 than to 30. Who knows... in any case, I have been thinking about what I long for -- my list of things a girl (lady) needs by the time she is somewhere in her 30s... Some I have already, some I still long for...

1. A passport (the more stamps the better).
2. The ability to flirt, elegantly, yet convincingly.
3. A great aesthetician to turn to for brows, other waxing needs, a facial, a massage.
4. A fail-safe skin care and makeup routine for day, and one for evening.
5. A signature fragrance.
6. A form of physical exercise you are passionate about.
7. A friend who can count on you as her "get out of jail" card.
8. A set of champagne glasses and a champagne you know you love.
9. A handbag from an iconic French or Italian design house.
10. A set of pearl or diamond stud earrings that makes you feel elegant and put together no matter the tears in your jeans.
11. A pair of jeans you know you look great in (with or without tears).
12. A garter-belt, and the confidence to wear it.
13. The ability to write the perfect thank-you note (and the stationery that goes with it).
14. Eye cream that you use religiously twice a day.
15. Something on your wall that is neither a poster nor a family photograph.
16. The ability to forgive (others, but yourself first).
17. A family you love.
18. The confidence to ask for what pleases you in bed.
19. The confidence to say no. At work. In bed. And everywhere in between.
20. A savings account and a retirement fund.
21. A local bar that will always find you a seat (because you go there often and tip well).
22. A restaurant you can take clients out to lunch that will always give you excellent service and act like they know you (again, because you go there often and tip well).
23. A set of stilettos that will give you confidence no matter the day you have had (and that you can walk in).
24. A person whose happiness you put above your own.
25. A bucket list.

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Fashion Week Look Of The Day: Peter Som Shows Us Why All Dresses Should Have Pockets

February 7, 2014, 1:22 pm

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If you're looking to buy an entire wardrobe from one designer come fall, Peter Som just might be your guy.

Known for turning out elegant pieces with luxurious touches, Som's Fall 2014 collection is chock full of wearable separates (think camel lacquered wool moto skirts, leopard print vests and herringbone coats), along with a few stunning floral chiffon gowns. Though the working girl can rejoice, as there were quite a few pairs of slacks and statement-making outwear, there is something for everyone in this collection.

Our favorite look came in the form of a gorgeous navy dress, shown towards the middle of the collection. The blue tank-style dress was business at the top and party down below, as the skirt featured a slew of dark blue feathers. Not only did we love the whimsical embellishments, but the dress also looked extremely comfortable. And hey, there are few things we love more than ostrich feathers and pockets.

PHOTOS:





More looks from the collection:


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Boyish Brows Will Be Big For Fall, So Take Note (PHOTOS)

February 7, 2014, 1:45 pm

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Thank goodness I gave up eyebrow threading because, boyish brows are in.

Makeup artists at New York Fashion Week Fall 2014 shows, including Tadashi Shoji, Jason Wu and Costello Tagliapietra, used a "feathering" technique and dark eyeshadow to enhance the models' brows. The finish was definitely bushy and bold.

Lead makeup artist Diane Kendal for Jason Wu told us that using an eyeshadow that's closest to your natural eyebrow color is the trick to perfecting boyish brows.

"You don't want to make them too dark. You brush [your brows] first and start filling them in. I like to start from the inner corners and then fill out the ends to get that straightness," she explained.

Lisa Houghton, the key makeup artist at Tadashi Shoji, said that eyeshadow creates "a much softer effect" as opposed to harsh brow pencils.

So cancel your brow appointment and take a cue from the boys.

Costello Tagliapietra Fall 2014





Veronica Beard Fall 2014





Tadashi Shoji Fall 2014





Richard Chai Fall 2014





Jason Wu Fall 2014



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Exclusive Interview With Portland Fashion and Textile Designer, Rio Wrenn, About Valentine's Day Love and Lingerie

February 7, 2014, 2:37 pm

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Valentine's Day is a short, but sweet way to ponder passion, desire and romance; so how can the flame of love hope to brightly burn through this very cold winter?

Here's my fashion answer to that question about Valentine's Day love and lingerie, that I thought you might truly enjoy.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Portland fashion and textile designer, Rio Wrenn, about this topic, and about her lingerie collection for women of all shapes and sizes.

Together with the creative team of Hart Portland art directors, fashion stylists and flower power enthusiasts, Jill Mason and Kate Hart, (WeAreHart.com) Portland photographer, Travis Geny, hair and make up designers, David Yu and Janelle Hayden, we set the studio on fire with the "Look of Love in All Shapes and Sizes Lingerie Shoot," with models Alina Phillips, Christine Shield, Favour Kibali, Vanessa Meier and Natasha Ward.

Wrenn of Raw (R A W) Textiles says, "I am a visual artist, textile designer, belly dancer and nature lover."

Okay, let's start today's fashion story about love in all shapes and sizes. What do you think about that statement, and how does it work with your lingerie designs for the female body?

Yes, that is so true. That statement goes very well with my processes and attitude towards life. When I started making lingerie, I wanted the samples and models to be a mix of small and large. That, of course, is defined by industry standards.

My muse is curvy and confident. We are all basically the same on the inside, yearning for love, and our body is just a shell. As far as my process of dyeing textiles goes, and my conceptual vision -- I transform decay and use unconventional objects to manifest beauty.




Photography by Travis Geny, hair and make up by David Yu, art direction by fashion stylists Jill Mason and Kate Hart for Hart Portland, and modeled by Favour Kibali.



Favour wears the nectar bodice, and yogi undies were part of my last lingerie collection for spring and summer 2013. I dedicated that collection to dance. I used indigo to dye them. The heart (tea) corset was made for a show in 2010 that was recycled garments called "Pre-soiled." It was made from a vintage linen tea cloth stained with tea.



Photography by Travis Geny, hair and make up by Janelle Hayden, art direction by fashion stylists Jill Mason and Kate Hart for Hart Portland, and modeled by Alina Phillips.



Alina's wears the silhouette slip was from the spring and summer 2014 collection. I have been slowly integrating many of the vintage laces and crocheted item I have collected. This is one of those pieces. It was made with a lace table runner, and inserted with pin-tucked silk, dyed with cochineal.



Photography by Travis Geny, hair and make up by Janelle Hayden, art direction by fashion stylists Jill Mason and Kate Hart for Hart Portland, and modeled by Christine Shields.


Christine wears the Athena bra, which was first introduced in the 2010 collection. I wanted to make something romantic and easy to fit for multiple breast sizes. The retro gear girdle was part of the "Pre-soiled" recycled fashion show in 2010. It was made with rust printing, and then quilted. I love this piece because it is meant to accentuate the hips, but unlike a girdle, it should be worn on the outside.



Photography by Travis Geny, hair and make up by David Yu, art direction by fashion stylists Jill Mason and Kate Hart for Hart Portland, and modeled by Natasha Ward.



Natasha wears my newest garment. It is not part of a collection, but I love it. It reminds me of the sea because of its flow and ease. It is made with sheer silk cut on the base, and dyed with logwood.



Photography by Travis Geny, hair and make up by Janelle Hayden, art direction by fashion stylists Jill Mason and Kate Hart for Hart Portland, and modeled by Vanessa Meier.


Vanessa wears a slip that was part of the 2010 collection. I thought it might be fun to take a basic slip cut and insert a sheer panel in the center to transform it into something unexpected. This was dyed with wattle and rust printed.

What are you creating today for future fashion endeavors, or on what horizon are you viewing for your creative future?

Currently, I'm not making lingerie collections. I do, however, have a lot of vintage laces and such that I want to revisit someday. I have decided to focus my energy and intentions on textile design. This is what I have always wanted, and I think by just creating the textiles, I can use the rest of my energy to market and connect with other designers who might want to work with me and integrate natural dyes into there collections. I still have a collection of scarves that I am introducing, but I am open to collaborations and welcome new opportunities.

What are your inspirations now, books, music and/or nature?

I am always inspired, it seems. Right now, I find that I love to manipulate color with my original composting methods, and from that I am seeing patterns and images created in the folds once the textile is fully opened, and breathing. I love music, and I really dig the new M.I.A. Mantangi. I am working on an art exhibit that will hang this summer in Illinois, and my inspiration is the core. Many of the panels look like cross sections of stones. I am really excited about that.

How do you juggle your creative world and the mundane? Or what's your biggest challenge creatively right now?

They are one in the same. I think of my art as a way of life and a spiritual quest.

What's your "go-to" song, food or passion, that elevates your soul?

I'm working on choreography that is more in the modern dance genre, and I will dance to elevate my soul. The music I have chosen is "Amorphous" by Bill Laswell. [Divine.]

Where can we find Rio Wrenn creating into the world her art, fashion and textiles? What's next for Raw Textiles?

I'm giving most of my time and attention to a few art exhibits, learning how to market, and organize my work to be more textile design and print collections. I hope to influence the fashion industry at large by integrating my natural dyed and rusted techniques into collections around the world. Slow is the new fast.

Brother And Sister Star As Billy Porter And Cyndi Lauper In Adorable Recreation Of Gap Ad

February 7, 2014, 3:16 pm

≫ Next: Stayin' Stylish... On A Budget

≪ Previous: Exclusive Interview With Portland Fashion and Textile Designer, Rio Wrenn, About Valentine's Day Love and Lingerie

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Kembe and India Howerton saw a Gap ad featuring "Kinky Boots" Tony Award winners Cyndi Lauper and Billy Porter and thought they were looking in a futuristic mirror.

Their mom, Kristen Howerton, who blogs at Rage Against The Minivan and also on The Huffington Post, helped the siblings recreate that ad for fun, and posted the image on her social media accounts. The resemblance is adorably uncanny:



Gap's official Twitter account responded to Howerton, calling the side-by-side photo recreation "Worthy of a Tony!" According to Broadway.com, Lauper and Porter spread their show's message of tolerance as part of Gap's "Make Love" campaign.

And here, babies recreate classic kids' books...

Stayin' Stylish... On A Budget

February 7, 2014, 7:36 pm

≫ Next: Check Out The Stars Who Left Us Perplexed On This Week's Worst Dressed List

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"I don't do fashion, I am fashion." -- Coco Chanel

Suede suits. Lace dresses. Faux leather jackets. Old school tennis shoes. I can never keep track of what is trendy now, what used to be trendy, and furthermore, what should I spend my cash on. Just when I think I have it figured out, the silly trend changes again.

I live in Los Angeles, and yes, I fall prey to the overwhelming desire to stay stylish. Come on now, I know I'm not the only one out there who has labored in front of my closet trying to find the "perfect" combination to stay trendy, and to look, well, fantastically awesome. Let's face it, trendy costs money... big bucks if you're trying to keep up with the Joneses. As with everything, I argue there is a better way to stay stylish without going bankrupt.

You Look Marvelous Darling...

I sat down with celebrity stylist, Inanna Bantu, who is a part of the styling team Afropeaux and asked her how to solve this seemingly unsolvable crisis. Inanna is a style maven who has styled so many A-list stars including Tom Cruise, Betty White and Matthew Perry to name a few. She has an air about her that is infectious and makes me want to scream, "Please, come and make me marvelous!"

Shannah: Inanna, you've styled so many celebrities for movies, TV and print adds. Can you give me a list of your top five items that men and women should have as staple items in their wardrobe, on a non-celebrity budget?

Inanna: Yes, this is a great question. Just like building a financial foundation, having signature or staple pieces will pay you back time and time again because you can mix and match and really create your own style. Here is what I suggest:

Men:
Slim-fitting white dress shirt
Lapel accessories for blazers
Brown Monkstrap shoes
Blue Blazer, NOT navy
Colored Demin

Women:
A unique little black dress
Embellished coat
Statement heels
Investment bag
Variety of scarves from neutral to vibrant

Shannah: Great, I'm a personal fan of men's white dress shirts. Something very timeless and classy about a man in a white shirt. Ok, so I've got $500 to spent this spring on additions to my closet. Where do I go and what am I looking for?

Inanna: Oh, good question. You can do a lot with $500, even less. For men and women, hit the clearance sections at Zara, H&M and discount retailers like Nordstrom Rack. I would buy statement pieces -- off-the-rack clothes that fit your body well and allow you to be well-dressed.

Women spring items for less:
Neutral to vibrant scarves
Full skirts
Cut-out Tops/Dresses

Men spring items for less:
Casual pastel dress shirts
Low-top sneakers that look like, but are not from a fashion house
O ring belts and fedora hats

Shannah: Love it! I am a huge fan of Zara, but particularly like the Zara's overseas. I think their buyers have a different knack at finding new trends. Let's talk about how being properly styled can help you get a better job, bigger salary and get ahead. Do you have any examples of how being properly styled can result in a bigger bank account?

Inanna: I see this all the time. In fact, a high-profile client of mine needed an image makeover and we spent time recreating her look -- by the time she hit the red carpet, she ended up booking a major film role due to her new look. So yes, ladies and gents, image IS everything in Hollywood... and your job market.

Shannah: Lastly, and honestly, who wouldn't want to hire a stylist to go through their closet? I've always wanted someone to come in and magically wave a wand and totally change my style with the clothes I have. I've always heard that hiring a stylist is something that only A-listers can afford. Am I wrong?

Inanna: Yes, stylists have typically been considered a luxury; however, personal styling can be affordable, depending on your needs and wants. Often, a personal stylist charges by the hour with a minimum. This rate can vary per client. With my personal clients, I offer everything from closet overhauls, to shopping new looks to creating their signature style... even on a budget.

Shannah: I love it. So in a nutshell, you don't have to spend a ton of money to update your look once you have your staple pieces. This can be done with a small investment and you can keep building from there. What I love even more is the importance of styling yourself even when you can't afford to hire a stylist, because at the end of the day, being put together well leads to more money in the bank. It really is that simple.

Inanna: I couldn't have said it better. Work with the money you have, build a piece at a time, and always leave the house believing you are red-carpet ready.