Jezebel: New York Fashion Week

Fashion Show: Badgley Mischka

Sadie — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 10:20:00 EDT

20 years into their collaboration, Mark Badgley and James Mischka are still turning heads with their commitment to pure glam. While the current collection kept the voltage high, the gowns on parade skewed a bit lighter and rather less sparkly than in the past - albeit still with a serious emphasis on 1980s excess. The parade of impeccably-groomed models embodied flawless glitz and sported looks that made no bones about the jet-setting lifestyles of the clothing's intended audiences. It's good to see these red carpet fixtures (the gowns, not the guys) keeping the flame alive. Click on the image at left to see the gallery.

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Fashion Show: Donna Karan

Sadie — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 09:20:00 EDT

Donna Karan has made her name on a relaxed, sophisticated aesthetic that blends comfort with artistry. This signature collection was no exception, bringing us a parade of flowy, body-conscious pieces that scream rich bohemian in an an appealingly muted palette, with a few soft menswear-inspired pieces as a gentle nod to the current vogue in 8os power dressing. It's classic DK, but at the end of the day, that's probably what her customer wants! Click on the image at left to see the gallery.

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Fashion Show: Zac Posen

Sadie — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EDT

Is Zac Posen still considered a "wunderkind" at 27? I guess he is, given that after only six years in the spotlight he's one of the most celeb-beloved and established designers on the scene. Normally he's known for his tailoring, but this collection went in a different direction entirely. There was some definite weirdness - padding (which actually made the models look voluptuous), plastic, metal decoration - but some of the evening wear and the bombshell-ish animal prints were just completely glam. See if you don't flip over that sea green gown! Click on the pic at left to see the entire gallery.

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Fashion Show: Calvin Klein

Sadie — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:30:00 EDT

Calvin Klein, as we all know, is renowned for his classic minimalism. Francisco Costa's spring line was distinctively CK, but not necessarily his most wearable: it was aggressively architectural, and while some of the origami-like pieces, in their muted white, nude and cobalt palette, were very pretty, others just looked like stiff silk faille boxes plunked on top of incidental bodies: read, not exactly flattering. What say you, friends? Click on the picture at left to see the gallery.

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Gossip Girl's Nate Archibald For Versace?

Sadie — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:20:00 EDT

Is Gossip Girl pretty boy Chace Crawford set to replace McDreamy as the face of Versace? [Perez Hilton]
Fashion slang seems to have no regard for a word's actual meaning: "Designer Ashleigh Verrier said her favorite fashion word was "diaphanous" — an adjective characterizing fineness of texture. 'As in, 'That dress is so diaphanous!'' she said. 'I like 'Glamit'," said fashion designer Marc Bouwer, who uses the term for a fashion line. 'It is so gorgeous and glamorous. You don't want to use cliched words.'Designer Thuy Diep said 'prune"'was popular within her fashion crew to express disapproval." [Reuters]
Vogue-interning hockey playing fashionisto Sean Avery on who should play him in the rumored movie about him: "'Shiiiiiiiiiiiiit, man. I dunno I dunno I dunno I dunno I dunno. Fuck. I dunno!...I don't know anything. That's what casting guys are for! Shit. No questions!'" Sounds like that'll be some sparkling dialogue! [Radar]

This is like telling us the Earth is flat! An "expert in visual perception" claims that vertical stripes are actually unflattering! Prune! [Guardian]
As if her life was not sufficiently charmed, stunning editrice spawn Julia Restoin-Roitfeld is now art-directing! "Casting fellow model and brother Vladimir as the male lead, Restoin-Roitfeld art-directed the campaign from start to finish. The result is a super-sexy music-inspired campaign that lends Rock & Republic's image rock and roll cool." [Daily Mail]
Eva Mendes is feeling her banned CK ad: "It’s very rock ’n’ roll; I kind of like it. I want to do more. I want keep pushing the envelope.” [WWD]
Apparently "pushing the envelope" means working on a home decor line with Macy's. "The line, created with Mendes' boyfriend, film producer George Augusto, will be called "Vida" and will initially feature five bedding styles." [Crains]
High-street brands making token (read: "almost no") effort to improve the conditions of overseas manufacturing. [Guardian]
More on the kinda heartbreaking Sears Fashion Week tent. [AdAge]
Embattled retailer Steve & Barry's now getting sinister emails from a supplier: "When customers 'happily shop' at the chain, 'they are actually buying clothes … soaking of blood and tears of worldwide vendors,' one e-mail read." [NYT via a href="http://dealbook.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/09/12/supplier-has-harsh-words-for-steve-barrys/>The Post]
In honor of fashion week, Luca Luca executives will ring in the closing bell of the NASDAQ Stock Market. Brokers will almost certainly not care. [WWD]
After years of giving it short shrift, Calvin Klein focuses on high-end collections again. [WSJ]
Teen spending down. [Portfolio]
Gok Wan (the British Carson Kressley) on his idols: "Sarah Jessica Parker - she has amazing style, and when I saw her and Vivienne Westwood [another one of Gok’s favourites] on the red carpet at the same time, I didn’t know whether to throw up or fart - I was so excited!" Why not do both? [Mirror]
Albino model Shaun Ross breaks the mold. [NYT]
Things are looking gloomy for French Connection. Has FCUK had its day? [FT]
Fashion minions give the Nuclear Wintour a piece of their minds - okay, anonymously. "Painter Geoffrey Raymond hawked his portrait of Wintour, dubbed The Annotated Anna, to Bryant Park and asked fashionistas to write a message to Wintour on the canvas. Comments ranged from 'Scaaary!'‚ to the more flattering 'You look great without the sunglasses"' Raymond plans to sell the painting on eBay, with a starting bid of $3,500." Wait, that's the best they can do? Pass that thing around Jezebel! [The First Post]
This pleases us: fashionistas waiting on line get into the Target "pop-up bodegas." [WWD]
Tory Burch seeks outside investors for her boho-country club empire. [WSJ]

Work It! The Good, The Bad & The Ugly Of New York Fashion Week

Sadie — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EDT

As everyone knows, the best action at Fashion Week doesn't happen on the runway. So we bring you a GBU from yesterday's tents! It's hard to say exactly what the dress code is for fashion shows, since some people wear cocktail dresses at 9 am. What's not hard to say is that some fashionistas look like total ass, which, it's true, might be a dress code memo I didn't get. And it's gotta be hard to figure out who you're going to wear when you're hitting several high-profile shows in a day, so you have to feel for them. Tinsley Mortimer, Jada Pinkett Smith, Aubrey O'Day, Joy Bryant, and some seriously awesome dandies — after the jump!

The Good:
Christy Romano sports pretty much the platonic ideal of LBD.
Jada Pinkett Smith has some fun with her Zac Posen, clearly. Why not?
Olivia Chantecaille always does "wealthy socialite" perfectly.
I have a major weakness for ridiculous dandies like Prince William III.
Also, fops and exquisites like Patrick McDonald.

The Bad:
I don't know what shoes Kelly Killoren Bensimon was wearing, but I'm gonna go out on a limb and suggest that they don't redeem this look.
Bernadette Peters, you leave me no choice but to quote Tyra Banks: shiny fabrics are not your friend.
Again, I'm hazy on the dress code rules, but I'm guessing Julie Macklowe's outfit doesn't conform to them.
The Tinz's dress is just fine. But I have made my displeasure with this senseless trend in shoes widely known, so I take this as a personal affront.
I wonder if Rachel Zoe styled this look. Because Joy Bryant doesn't shut it down here. At Medieval Times? Maybe.

The Ugly:
As a designer, I wonder how you feel about a "tribute" like Aubrey O'Day's.

Fashion Show: Rebecca Taylor

Sadie — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EDT

I was gonna live-blog this for ya, but that's kind of hard to do when you're in "standing seating" and sort of overwhelmed by how young the models are! I read the designer's description of "The Rebecca Taylor girl for Spring 2009" as "a bohemian world traveler...she mixes her inherited couture pieces from her French actress mother with great finds gathered from exotic locations around the globe." If one of those locations was "1985" I guess I can see that! Because there were several flat-out 80s animal prints along with the more expected romantic boho flowing shapes and dainty florals. Rebecca Taylor is a super-girly designer, and the flowy, flirty pieces were my favorites. What say you, kids? Post-jump!

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Fashion Show: Milly

Sadie — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:30:00 EDT

Last year, the New York Times ran a spectacularly obnoxious Styles piece about being "downgraded" by economic necessity from big-name designers to "minor talents." One fashionista writes, “Last summer I had to buy a dress for an engagement party, and I actually bought a Milly — a Milly. Four years ago, I would have sawed off my left pinky toe before considering such a purchase.” Ever since, I've felt protective of Michelle Smith's line, and its pretty, 60s-inspired clothes. Yeah, maybe she's not setting the world on fire with Spring 09; maybe early-60s tailoring is done to a turn and boho chic's been pretty much beaten into the ground by Tory Burch, but the clothes on the Milly runway, if not exactly barrier-breaking, are frequently pretty, good for lots of bodies, and things I'd be happy to wear - if I could "upgrade" to them, that is. What say you?

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Fashion Show: Marchesa

Sadie — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:20:00 EDT

If you're feeling like a dose of fantasy, then Georgina "Mrs. Harvey Weinstein" Chapman is your woman. Her latest collection for Marchesa alternates between sleekly romantic Grecian and a lacy, voluminous, Flamenco-scented little girl's dream come true. (Well, a sophisticated little girl who likes black.) You can totally see why any billionaire bride would choose a Marchesa — they're literally showstopping. Click the picture at left to view the gallery.

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Fashion Show: Michael Kors

Sadie — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EDT

In his Spring 09 show, Top American Designer Michael Kors channeled Miami retiree. No, seriously: the models are wearing sun visors. And while a great many of the crisp looks on display were unabashedly, wildly frumpy, there were moments of great charm. Almost to a look, though, you can just see these on a well-turned-out, cosmpolitan Grandma who comes up to New York to see museum exhibits and takes her grandkids to Europe when they turn ten.

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Fashion Show: Narciso Rodriguez

Sadie — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EDT

Narciso Rodriguez is known for architectural shapes and a lot of tailored seams. You certainly got some of that in this latest collection, but I gotta say: I was not feeling the love. Yeah there were a few very pretty romantic touches and a couple of interesting silhouettes, but it was one of the least breast-friendly collections in a week not known for kindness to busts. He's cited ninjas as an influence here, so I guess showcasing curves doesn't rate high, but even by the dictates of "fashion as art" I found this troubling! Am I being too harsh? See what you think in the gallery by clicking on the picture at left.

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Naomi Campbell Is Late To Feed The Needy

Sadie — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:30:00 EDT

Naomi Campbell's started her latest round of amends, this time a stint in a soup kitchen for assaulting a cop. Apparently she was ten minutes late. [The Mirror]
No one will either confirm or deny that Ellen is a new Cover Girl. [AdAge]
Nastia Liukin thrown in with the sharks. "Ms. Liukin was excited—giddy, almost—but perhaps also a tad intimidated. Dressed in a marbled, off-white bubble dress, Ms. Liukin had attended her first Fashion Week show, Peter Som’s spring 2009 collection, just that morning." [Observer]

The "Ocampo" is the hot item in Sudanese fashion right now, There's been such a run on the tob, a traditional sari-like garment, that it's become impossible to find. "The real lure is the brand name—after Luis Moreno-Ocampo, the International Criminal Court prosecutor who has charged Sudan's president Omar al-Bashir with war crimes." [Deep Glamour]
Alice Dellal is in the midst of a coke scandal. But more to the point, she's rocking punk chic! [Elle]
As previously noted, Ed Norton's gonna be the face — wrist? — of Breil for the next two years. Here are the ads! [Oh No They Didn't]
The charmed life: Carlos de Souza's It boy career. [Observer]
Leah Buechley breaks the glass ceilng of the high-tech materials world. "In the several years since she first sewed a circuit board to a T-shirt, the 31-year-old University of Colorado computer-science researcher has done a lot to bring gender equality to the world of do-it-yourself." [Forbes]
Wondering what the hell inspired the trippy Rodarte show? "Skeletons, Donnie Darko, and Space Opera." [Elle]
This woman knows how to make an exit: Romeo Gigli's designer quits just in time for the Milan shows. [Reuters]
The much-anticipated Louis Vuitton-Comme des Garcons bag, sported by sullen Japanese teens. [The Life Files]
Victoria Beckham: close, but no cigar? "Beckham's dresses appear both curiously wearable and really rather fetching. Primly foxy, kitted out with all manner of tailoring trompe-l'oeil, they will be available in sizes 6-14. Victoria apparently had in mind Nigella Lawson and Dame Helen Mirren by way of muses. The adjectives being bandied between air kisses were "beautiful", "classy" and "desirable". Be that as it may, the consensus regarding Brand Beckham remains a hearty "Thanks, but no thanks"." [Telegraph]
Looks like chasing Harry Winston's worthwhile; the company's way, way up. [WSJ]
Faux-fur Converse chucks. 'Nuff said. [The Life Files]
Obviously a terrible idea: "With no catwalk in sight, nine sharply dressed models climbed up a ladder and plunged into a large tank of water in Australia's first public underwater fashion shoot, delighting tourists and passers-by in Sydney's picturesque Circular Quay." [Reuters]
Dita Von Teese for Wonderbra: "I took all the best bits of the most beautiful vintage lingerie I have collected over the years to make this...But I made sure it was all really comfortable too, which vintage lingerie can't really claim to be." [Telegraph]

Fashion Show: Marc By Marc Jacobs

Sadie — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:20:00 EDT

After Monday's rad Marc Jacobs show, it's no shocker that the younger, slightly lower-end Marc by Marc Jacobs ready-to-wear collection is a delight and a despair. Like MJ, it's eclectic and belt-heavy. But it's also young, fun and completely wearable, from the flirty silhouettes to the bold prints. Yeah, some of it skews a little Gossip Girl - you can just see some wealthy 14-year-old flouncing down Madison Avenue in one of these delicious frocks and a little patchwork jacket - but every single one of us is going to be able to rock the H&M iterations that should be appearing in two days or so! Drool with me, by clicking on the photo at left to begin the gallery.

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Fashion Show: Rodarte

Sadie — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:50:00 EDT

The sisters behind the young label Rodarte, Kate and Laura Mulleavy, are kinda fashion It Girls right now. And it's hard not to dig designers who are inspired by Zelda Fitzgerald's paper dolls. Not only have they netted tons of highbrow fans and glowing reviews for their meticulous craftsmanship and whimsical detailing, but get this: Agyness Deyn walked in their Spring show. So, the show itself was...how shall I put this...highly conceptual. S&M details duking it out with craftsy, Stevie Nicks-ish hand-knits; flesh-toned kilts with perversely dowdy 80s shapes; and then some dramatic gowns that are just flat-out stunning. I'm guessing High Fashion's gonna swoon. You'll just have to draw your own conclusions!

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Fashion Show: Derek Lam

Sadie — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EDT

Derek Lam is known for hearkening back to power dressing with his crisp, sporty pieces, so it's funny that now that everyone else is going 80s, Lam jumped it up a decade: from the styling to the clean lines to the palate, this Spring collection felt totally, well, 90s! And while this was basically refreshing, there were moments when he definitely channeled some kind of horrible Germanic LizSport hybrid that brought back less fond memories of the late decade. What say you? Click the photo at left for a gallery; then click any picture to start the show.

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Fashion Show: Monique Lhuillier

Sadie — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 15:40:00 EDT

When you think Monique Lhuillier, you think "pretty dresses," and she rarely disappoints. Sure, there were the few obligatory 80s silhouettes, a dash of jet-set resort, but there's a reason the Filipina designer is a Big Name in Bridal: her gowns are unabashedly romantic, Grace Kelly-worthy confections. Thing lace, think bows, think the fantasy getup you'd wear if you were going to, I don't know, that New Year's Eve ball they have in Vienna. Basically, any event more formal than anything you'll ever go to. It's getting to be that time of the afternoon when we can all use a pick-me-up: have some spun sugar! Click the photo at left for a gallery; then click any picture to start the show.

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Bloomie's After Dark: Kind Of Like Bloomie's During The Day Plus Booze & Nigel Barker

Sadie — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 14:00:00 EDT

Kids! As I may have mentioned, I am somewhat disillusioned by fashion week parties. But last night, out of pure love, I attended the opening party for AmericanPHOTO's "first ever fashion issue" and, more to the point, Nigel Barker's fashion photos, "Moon Warriors." The party (co-hosted by Elle) was at Bloomingdale's SoHo (which was still open when we got there, allowing me to purchase a MAC eyeshadow in "Jest.") I couldn't get anyone to go with me, so my boyfriend came. I was also in work clothes and shlepping around a computer all night, but at least I was sporting my (new) signature glasses chain! What follows were a couple of Housewives, much humiliation, some LU biscuits and a lot of waiting on line. Our adventure, after the jump!

The party was on the fourth floor, but there was a backup and they only let up ten people at a time. This is the second floor.
This is pretty much all there was to eat: petits ecoliers, the biscuits with chocolate schoolboys on them. There were also some cinnamon-dusted cubes of congealed, deep-fried macaroni and cheese, but these disappeared too quickly to photograph.
A Moon Warrior! The photographs were displayed around the floor. They were all shot in moonlight.
The venue: Juniors.
I don't do well in big crowds.
With Real Housewife of New York City Alex McCord. She is the one from Brooklyn. I really had to pee by this time and my big bags were really heavy! Sorry to whine.
Nigel Barker was really nice, even though it took us two tries to get the shot and I said something strange about 'burdening him further.' It took me over an hour to work up the nerve to ask for the pic. Oh, and wanna look even more unphotogenic? Stand next to an insanely handsome former model.

Earlier: Ruby Slipper Party: Celebrities, Booze & Shoes, Oh My
I Think I Hate Fashion Week

Fashion Show: Proenza Schouler

Sadie — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:40:00 EDT

If you're feeling nostalgic for Nancy Reagan chic, you've come to the right place, baby, cause Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez , the minds behind Proenza Schouler, were feeling 80s power in a major way. Yes, you've got the shoulders, the glitz, the jumpsuits. But there's also a major nod to the "eccentric art patron" great-aunt type - you know, the one in the huge glasses with "avant-garde" tastes. If the collection feels slightly schizo, well, maybe that's a nod to that other period icon, Bret Easton-Ellis. And yes, we are talking about the rubber gloves. Click the photo at left for a gallery; then click any picture to start the show.

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Hockey Player Sean Avery's Vogue Stint To Hit The Silver Screen

Sadie — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

You know how we said yesterday we were kind of over hockey player Sean Avery's novelty Vogue internship? Yeah, now they might make a movie out of it. Devil Wears Prada meets The Cutting Edge?! [Reuters]
Naomi Campbell wants to be a mother. FYI. [Daily Express]
Posh's line of gowns is...not too bad. Says Posh: "The collection was inspired by the femininity and sophistication of the midcentury silhouette...I’ve always been drawn to intricate, seam-detailed designs, as their structure enhances the flattering shape of a woman’s silhouette.” Silhouette. Just to make it three! [IHT]
Whoa whoa whoa. JLo to guest judge at Runway finale?! [NY Mag]
Another one bites the dust: Viveca A. Fox is launching a clothing line. [USA Today]

NYC Fashion Week Screws London Fashion Week. CFDA mediates. [WWD]
Is anyone else incredibly weirded out by all these designers making luxury houses in Dubai? Ferragamo joins the pack. [Elle]
Hot on the heels of her bag line, Mischa Barton follows Paris into the world of hair accessories. [WWD]
Alice Dellal is the new Kate Moss indeed! "For the socialite model, who boasts high profile friends including James and Elizabeth Jagger and Leah Wood, is pictured in a series of curious photographs with what appears to be drug paraphernalia." [Daily Mail]
Braced for disaster, New Orleans retailers heave a sigh of relief, re-open. [WWD]
Oddly, the Japanese company that manufactures Sarah Palin's rimless specs is seeing a boost in sales. [Breitbart]
Army sells out historic logo to Sears; angers some vets. [Politico]
Not only is Kate Moss's new Top Shop collection apparently the best yet...we can get it STATESIDE!!! "Drawing on the rock chick look which has been her signature style ever since she turned 30, Moss's new collection features skinny jeans, fake fur gilets, slouchy knits and a raft of the tea dresses which have proved so popular each season with London’s army of Moss-alikes." [Daily Mail]
Not surprisingly, Jill Stuart's uber-flowy collection was inspired by ballet. [Elle]
Guessing a ballerina didn't inspire the following blooper from her show: "In between the floaty, wannabe off-duty ballerina layers and blush tones (except for the all black outfit worn, appropriately, by Karlie Kloss), one of the models had a bit of a wardrobe malfunction. As in, a really, really bad one that she didn't seem to be aware of, leading her to continue down the runway jiggling away anyway." [Fashionista]
Either LiLo's weight is seriously yo-yoing or she's a diva: she asked seamstresses to take in 14 dresses while staying at the Bowery Hotel. [Page Six]

Fashion Show: Jill Stuart

Sadie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:50:00 EDT

To call Jill Stuart's spring line "diaphanous" is a major understatement: it's a total Greek goddess wardrobe, layers of chiffon and sea foam gowns and Isadora Duncan-worthy tunics. And then, out of the blue, this random gym outfit. It's a lot of romance, kids — besides the gym outfit, I mean — and cynics shouldn't even apply. But for the rest of you, dust off your Bullfinch's Mythology and get ready to embrace your inner deity.

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Fashion Show: Charlotte Ronson

Sadie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:20:00 EDT

For a while there, Charlotte Ronson just seemed like a day-tripper with a suspicious amount of pink in her store. And yet, along with her entire fam, it's suddenly impossible not to kind of love her. Seriously, she gets better all the time. Her collection, as always, is girly, sporty and fun, but the cuts are cool and there are a few surprises with fabrication. You could actually wear every one of these looks. And, more to the point, would!

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Fashion Show: Diane Von Furstenberg

Sadie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:20:00 EDT

For those of you expecting DVF's usual brand of sophisticated career-wear, don't hold your breath: her deranged bohemian preferred an eclectic , brash romanticism - think Arden Wohl on a cruise - that left some of us longing for silk jersey. Which is not to say there aren't some treats in store: DVF's signature prints took a turn for the dainty and, while some of the cleaner shapes skewed a little Tory Burch, they're eminently wearable. Click the photo at left for a gallery; then click any picture to start the show.

Fashion Show: Herve Leger

Sadie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:40:00 EDT

It only takes a look at the pics from the VMAs last night to appreciate how hard the Leger bandage dress has hit — and how many bodies can wear it and look amazing. Max Azria for Herve Leger played with the bandage to mostly good effect and amazingly managed to keep us from getting bored. However, boredom would have been preferable to bandage swimwear.Just sayin'. (Click the photo at left for a gallery; then click any picture to start the show.)

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Fashion Show: Alexandre Herchcovitch

Sadie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:20:00 EDT

If you're jonesing for the bite of something more experimental and decidedly less pretty, perhaps you'll cotton to Alexandre Herchcovitch's exercise in perverse volume. Risky, sure: think a lot of khaki mixed with silk charmeuse, novel shapes and a serious mix of textures. Wearable? Not so much. But a few of these deets, judiciously used, will feel truly fresh come spring. Others will just feel like a linebacker's uniform made of a big ol' mess of butcher paper.

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Fashion Show: Abaeté

Dodai — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:20:00 EDT

Laura Poretzky started her label, Abaeté (her family name, which means "person of virtue") in 2004. It has quickly gained recognition thanks to a mix of girly dresses, tough skirts and a decidedly downtown vibe. Her Spring 2009 collection was shown on Saturday afternoon. The Abaeté vision for spring sticks to the "typical" Easter-egg palette: pale blue, soft pink, bright yellow — but with some choppy seersucker dresses and clingy black '80s skirts thrown in. Click the photo at left for a gallery; then click any picture to start the show.

Entertainment Weekly is reporting "exclusively" ...

Jennifer — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:20:00 EDT

Entertainment Weekly is reporting "exclusively" that "two well-placed sources" have informed the magazine that The Greatest Show On Earth (i.e. Project Runway) the show will leave New York for Los Angeles in its sixth season. Honestly, could Lifetime do anything else to fuck this show up? Actually, yes! Replace Tim Gunn with Rachel Zoe. [Entertainment Weekly]

George Clooney Is Not A Fashion Designer

Jennifer — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 11:30:00 EDT

Holy fuck: George Clooney, fashion designer?! [WWD, sub req'd]
No: Just a prank pulled by some douchey Italians. [WWD, 1st item]
Says Clooney: "This is a hoax. I have no connection whatsoever with any clothing line bearing my name, and more specifically GC Exclusive by George Clooney." Ok,ay well now we know. [Vogue UK]
And how did Vivienne Westwood celebrate Easter? By marching for nuclear disarmament, of course. [Vogue UK]
Whoah: they serve cake every Friday at the H&M design offices?! [WWD]
The Banana Republic green line is, um, literally green. [Nylon]
Nicole Richie is starting a jewelry line. Which is only a bit less offensive than starting a handbag line. [Off The Rack]

I can't tell if it makes me happy or sad that Topshop is going to be featuring Helmut Newton photos in their stores. [Fashion Week Daily]
Mazel tov to Saks Fifth Avenue for having the first-ever video catalog. Because now it's easier and more visually exciting to have expensive shit shilled at you! [MediaPost]
New York Fashion Week: Moving to to the Port Authority, probs. [NYMag]
Breaking news: Proctor & Gamble just bought Frederic Fekkai. [WSJ]
India Fashion Week brought all the boys to the yard. [WWD, sub req'd]
DSquared2: Doing eyewear. [Vogue UK]
Perry Ellis: Doing a bed and bath line. [MediaPost]
Versace helicopters! [Chic Report]
No money for beauty treatments because of the recession? Just wipe some aspirin across your face. [BellaSugar]
Leaping lizards, Batman! A smiling model! [Sassybella]
I would actually wear a bra if I had a Twin Peaks Bra. [UPI]

Agyness Deyn's Mother Reveals The Reason Her Daughter Is So Fat

Jennifer — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:30:00 EDT

Agyness Deyn's mom Lorraine Collins is as amazed as we are that someone as FAT as Agyness could ever make it in fashion: "She has wonderful curves and a bit of meat on her. When she's home, she eats everything." [Mirror]
Poor chivalrous BF-of-Marc-Jacobs Jason Preston! When he tried to stand up for a girl who got a drink thrown at her at a club, Preston got something worse thrown at him: a punch in the face. $10 says Marc incorporates a black eye makeup look into the Spring 2009 collection. [Page Six]
Richard Chai is the latest designer to do a Target collection! [Who is Richard Chai? I asked Jennie. He's "very respected." And Asian. Okay. -Moe] [Nylon]
But even more exciting: Alice McCall is designing for Topshop. [Who is...meh, forget it. I'm not the one reading the fashion news roundup.] [Sassybella]
While we buy that Barack would smell like bergamot and musk, no way in hell is Hillary Clinton a "delicate floral." [BellaSugar]

L'Oreal is honoring women for scientific achievements. No really! And not even, like, achievements related to wrinkle "therapy", but real achievements like discovering a new class of RNA molecules, although we're sure there is an anti-aging angle in there somewhere. [WWD, sub req'd]
Louis Vuitton and Murakami are once again collaborating with a new print, "monoflage," which will make its debut when the Murakami retrospective opens at the Brooklyn Museum of Art on April 3rd. Because what the world really needs is another Vuitton-Murakami bag showing up everywhere. [Fashion Week Daily]
Dries Van Noten's response when Diane von Furstenberg called him to tell him he would be receiving this year's CFDA International Award? "I don't know what to say! We're in a bad storm in Antwerp and I don't know whether or not we're going to have a house!'" Oy. [Chic Report]
DKNY Jeans has recruited comic book artist Paul Pope to collaborate with the brand on a new line. Which should be really exciting for skater geeks who worship Tim Gunn? [Nylon]
For the first time since Stella McCartney and Adidas joined forces together, they are not introducing a new fitness category for the collaborative brand for the Spring 2008 season. We guess that once you've differentiated "running" from "trail running" there really aren't any sports left. [WWD, 1st item]
After 2010, New York Fashion Week is out of Bryant Park and moves over to...the 10th Avenue Rail Yards? Delightful! [Gatecrasher]
Japan Fashion Week was, well, big in Japan. [Reuters]
Will Coach buy Burberry? And if so, can Coach get a firm grasp on the devastatingly complex details of selling logo-ed accessories at accessibly outrageous prices? We bet they can! [Independent]
Meanwhile, Coach is going to replace its own president with the COO of Victoria's Secret. Um, there's a track record we wouldn't be so quick to acquire, but okay. [WSJ]
Anna Sui president Michael Pellegrino has announced his retirement. With a 65th birthday coming up, he wants to travel and volunteer with Meals on Wheels. And they say fashion has no heart. [WWD, sub req'd]
Claudia Schiffer: The latest fashion star to judge London's Graduate Fashion Week. [Vogue UK]
Coldwater Creek: In the throes of existential crisis. [MediaPost]
American Eagle: Also not doing so well. [Reuters]

Project Runway Finale: I Remind You That Victoria Motherfucking Beckham Is Here

Jennifer — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:00:00 EST

Yup, it's the night we've been waiting for: By 11 p.m. we'll all know who won Project Runway season 4. And I don't know about you, but I've been a wreck ever since I saw the final collection in Bryant Park but a mere 4 weeks ago, replaying them over and over again in my minding, tormenting who will be in, and who will be out. Will Rami make all Christian Palestinians from Jerusalem proud of his draping abilities? Will Christian utilize the secret powers of Ferocia Coutura to pull the hair and blind his competition with his pageant of puffy sleeves? Will Jillian's monotonous Long Island accent seduce the judges like a siren song? Jesus Christ, I can't take the questions anymore! Thank God the finale (with special guest judge Victoria Motherfucking Beckham!!!!) starts....now.

10:58: Awwwww: Tim is gonna cry. I think Tim really does feel very close to Christian. This is the sweetest, most genuine winning ever.

10:57: I am gonna cry! This is so sweet and heartfelt.

10:56: Don't let it be Rami. Don't let it be Rami. Don't let it be Rami.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH IT'S CHRISTIAN. He is crying.

Aw, and Rami is being so sweet and gracious. Holy fucking shit, did I just see tears in Posh's eyes????

10:54: Ugh, why is Heidi again going on about Rami?!

Jillian is OUT. That's sad. I am heartbroken that they think RAMI is better than JILLIAN.

10:53: Okay, and we're back from commercial. I am sweating bullets. Seriously.

Ed note: Hey guys, it's Jen, not Jess, who is live-blogging.

10:49: Oooooh but Nina thinks Rami has a bad sense of color! Interesting!

Ahhhhhh! It's time!

10:48: Nina is such a hater when it comes to Jillian. I wonder if Nina just hates women. But Nina's in love with Christian. And so is Posh, but we all knew that. Thank God Kors is there, the voice of reason.

Kors called Rami cerebral?! I take it back about him being the voice of reason.

10:47: Heidi loved Rami? If he wins, I cry. And not tears of joy.
If he wins, it will be even worse than when Chloe won over Daniel in season 2. UNACCEPTABLE.
DO NOT DISAPPOINT ME JUDGES. Jesus, do they have anything mean to say to Rami????

I like how Posh's accent is sorta hick. Ha.

10:46: Oooh Kors said looks monotonous?! And Nina agrees?! Whoah.
I did not see this coming. Why I love Posh: It was monotonous, but it was my style, so I was ok with that.
Um, that's fucking brilliant.

10:44: Ooh — good for Heidi for commending Jillian for trying new shapes.
Oy, Nina's the only judge who didn't like. But I do agree with Nina and Michael, Jillian is the queen of knitwear.

10:43: I like how they all say "Bravo," echoing the name of the channel on which they air.

Totes obvious that Jillian stuck with inspiration from Met challenge. Ooh Posh liked it! I swear I get excited just hearing Victoria speak.

10:42: Wow — Nina seems genuinely impressed. I worked with her. I don't think she could fake it if she actually wasn't impressed. (Which is a strength, I think.)

10:41: I love how Heidi always puts things in a question: "How amazing was the show?"

10:38: Uh, Elizabeth Berkley is hosting some pole-dancing competition reality show? She can't be serious.

10:37: Jay McCarroll thinks Rami's going to win? Um, this is why Jay's career has gone nowhere. Oy, so does Uncle Nick?! What is wrong with them???

10:36: Posh is eating this up. She's like a pig in shit. She and Christian should collaborate together.

10:35: His collection is amazing. And I can totally see Posh in all of it. He may do the same thing over and over again (puffy sleeve jacket, skinny pants), but he does it really well. I wonder why he never got called out for that...

Ugh this pants with zipper crotch are bad though. And how come they never call his stuff costume-y?
It's not exactly, ahem, "street" wear.

10:34: Aw, Christian is so cute and casual. And that was sorta cute how he said to the crowd "everybody looks fierce". Shameless plug: The music for Christian's show is by friend-of-Jezebel Brad Walsh!

10:32: Rami's collection looks so, so bad on TV. His family looks proud though. And that gold dress is amazing. But the separates are rubbish. That man from Jerusalem can only do eveningwear. He's this season's Austin Scarlett.

10:30:Rami's little speech about celebrating women is just as dumb this time around.

And so is his collection. It looks dated and weird. Don't like.

10:25: And seriously, I wouldn't wear that ruffled miniskirt, but I would wear almost everything else.And the insane hats are, well, sorta insane. But also sorta awesome. It's so much fun seeing this again! I love her evening look, with the corset. Want.

10:24: Aw Jillian: Love her little sweater dress. Seeing her collection on TV, I feel you get a more nouveau Ralph/Perry Ellis sensibility. I think she really has what it takes to be the new face of American sportswear.

10:23: Heidi is so cute and...babbly Her Kate Moss haircut is so hot.

10:22:And yet, he still finds time to hairspray his hair one last time.
Sigh. This is why I've grown to love him. When the going gets tough, use more hairspray. It's all so....Steel Magnolias.

10:21: Holy shit — two missing models for Christian. How is he staying so calm when two of his models haven't shown? They would be scraping me off the floor. Hell, my heart is racing just watching it.

10:20: The way Rami styled his models' hair is FUG. What the fuck is up with that weird braid twisting round their skulls? Egads, as Tim would say.

10:19: Haha, the camera just showed the seat I sat in. Empty, mind you, but my seat.

10:18: Tim just said they are an inspiration to him. Life goal: Be an inspiration to Tim Gunn.

If Jillian's curling iron and Christian's flat iron had a battle, who would win? Discuss.

10:17: One last "gather round" with Tim. I might cry. I think Tim is going to cry! If Tim cries, I will bawl.

10:16: Jillian is ensuring her models' hair gets curled — she really is going to style them like herself. Um, does Jillian realized she sounds a little racist? Saying how she's going to have to learn to accept diversity? That ain't good. This breaks my heart because I was pulling for her. And now...now I might have to root for Ferocia Coutura.

10:13: Um, how cute is Uncle Nick from Season 2 in his Saturn commercial? Just saying. Jillian has gone off the deep end. She is like Norman Bates as his mom at the end of Psycho, the way she's talking to herself.

Whoah! Rami just turned on his hag Jillian! He called her annoying! No he didn't!!!

10:09: Jillian is _seriously_ having a meltdown. Maybe this is Ferocia Coutura's real power: Rendering other designers unable to successfully cast a runway show?

10:08: Oh God: That is so Christian — "It's not about comfort, ladies!" I think Christian wants to torture women. And by torture I mean....make them look like him. But snaps for his confession that he wore the heels he got for his models around his apartment.

10:07: I am worried about Jillian: If she can't handle the sight of two models in the same room how will she ever go on to, y'know, have a career? And, um, function in society?

10:05: Christian wants "dark-skinned girls." Is he trying to end the white out??? God bless that little fashion imp! Also, love that he continues to style his models to look like himself. For that matter, Jillian is doing that to her models too.

10:04; Ooh: Fighting during model casting?! I can only hope.

10:03: Tim is oddly silent with Christian. Christian is nervous. I am nervous.

10:02: Tim just hated on that crazy stripe-y sweater with pom-pom sleeves that I loved so much at the runway show. OH MY GOD — does Tim think I have bad taste? If so, I can't live with myself. And Tim likes Rami's collection? God is dead.

10:01: I love that Jillian asked Christian and Rami to approve her hair. That was cute; it's why I love Jillian. Ha — Rami thinks Christian looks afraid. As if! Christian ain't afraid of no one! He's Ferocia Coutura, bitches!

Project Runway Finale, Part I: Welcome To The "Monkey House"

Jennifer — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST

Last night on Project Runway: Home visits! There's something so real about the finalists introducing Tim Gunn to where they live and work, and who they love. (Let's not forget that, during season 1, this episode yielded one of the greatest moments in Project Runway history, when Jay McCarroll met Tim out in his lawn wielding a shotgun.) Anyway, much was learned. Christian: Lives in a little apartment; grew up in Baltimore; used to cut hair. Rami: Born in Jerusalem; mother died when he was young. Jillian: Has a Christmas stocking on her door; boyfriend is very proud of her; mother on Long Island relies on advice of psychics. Chris March: Missed Tim dearly; has friends who support Hillary and an unnatural love for rococo furnishings. In addition to getting background on his beloved designers, Tim perused everyone's collections. The lowdown: Rami's looked heavy, Christian's looked voluminous, Jillian's was too "muddy" and, well, Chris used human hair as trim. Clip above.

Designer: Fashion Runways "Are Full Of White Dogs"

Dodai — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST

Things were bad on the runways in New York for black models, but at London Fashion Week, it was worse. British-born model Jourdan Dunn (pictured at left) was the only model of color to walk repeatedly on the catwalks this season. "I worry about it," she tells Style.com. "Luck is on my side that I keep getting cast, but there are so many beautiful black girls. I don't understand why it's always only me and maybe another girl who are chosen." Outspoken designer Katherine Hamnett is pissed. "The catwalks are full of white dogs," she tells the Guardian. (Hamnett is Caucasian.) "Cosmetic companies don't like black models — the racist bitches. I have no idea why when it's obvious that black girls are just so genuinely much more beautiful than Caucasians, who have clearly got the short straw."

Carole White, co-founder of Premier Model Management, says she gets casting directives from clients that say "no ethnics." And yet: London is a city where 29% of the population is made of ethnic minorities. 800,000 of its eight million residents are Afro-Caribbean. The fashion industry gets away with being blatantly racist by claiming that there aren't enough black models or that consumers don't buy products pushed by black models. But those are not valid excuses.

Writes Elizabeth Day:

It was not always thus: Yves Saint Laurent famously pioneered the use of black models in his runway shows in the 1970s. The economic resurgence of Marks & Spencer over the past few years has been largely attributed to its highly successful advertising campaign, featuring the black French model Noémie Lenoir. When Harper's Bazaar put [Liya] Kebede on its cover last year, it proved to be one of their best-selling issues — so much so that they are using her again for the front of their May issue.

Whether it's because of economics, trends or bigotry, the fact remains that black models are not "in fashion." But what's so stylish about racism and homogeneousness?

Against The Grain [Style.com]
Why Racism Stalked The London Catwalk [Guardian]
I'm So Looking Forward To When Race Is Not An Issue [Guardian]

Earlier: Fashion Week Runways Were Almost A Total Whitewash
Modeling Matriarch Continues To Demand Diversity On The Runways
Most Ladymags Continuing To Experience Whiteout Conditions

Fashion Show

Jennifer — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 11:20:00 EST

"[H]is child/woman vintage looks had grown up beautifully....The collection was solid but never stolid...after trying to prove with last season's artsy complexities and boudoir transparency that he could match experimental international designers, he did something in this show that was actually much tougher. He gave a fresh and original polish to streamlined American style. It was a redemption for Jacobs and for a dull New York fashion season." So sayeth frequent Marc Jacobs-hater/International Herald Tribune fashion critic Suzy Menkes of the designer's Fall/Winter 2008 collection, which started exactly on time Friday night, thankyouverymuch. Annotated gallery begins below.

Fashion Show

Jennifer — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:30:00 EST

Founded in 2000, Alice Temperley's Temperley London label is all about fusing boho style with a dash of sophistication and a pinch of punk sensibility, and her Fall/Winter 2008 collection, shown late yesterday, played heavy on the rock 'n' roll sensibility. Leggings of all sorts (pleather, velvet, super-shiny) were seen under frocks that billowed at both long and short lengths. Bowler-hats polished things off, making for a Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean femme-butch sensibility. Especially in that red-and-white striped dress: Ahoy! Gallery begins below.

Fashion Show

Jennifer — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 13:45:00 EST

Marchesa designers Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig are known for much more than being in bed with Hollywood. (Chapman is married to film producer Harvey Weinstein and there are always rumors circulating that the reason so many starlets wear Marchesa on the red carpet is because Harvey demands it of them.) Their over-the-top eveningwear designs are never dated, always decadent, and frequently divine. If you love the almost-absurd glamour of the Marchesa label, than this season's offerings will not disappoint. Ruffles and tiers and feathers: Oh my! From their signature Grecian draped gown to full skirted sculptures, the Fall/Winter 2008 collection is luxe (and only a little laughable). An annotated image gallery of the looks you'll be seeing this fall on the red carpet begins below.

Fashion Show

Dodai — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 12:20:00 EST

Philip Lim hails from Orange County, and you can see some of that laid-back California vibe in his designs. But instead of surfers and Hollywood starlets, think fluid lines and easy, loose fits. His vision for fall 2008 has subdued neutrals, simple (but never boring) separates and a few punches of eye-popping, unusual colors. Is it a cohesive collection? Not sure. But the coats are divine! And one slinky, juicy dress is transcendent. Check out the 14-image gallery, below, and judge for yourself.

Fashion Show

Dodai — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 18:40:00 EST

Anna Sui's first runway show was in 1991, and since then, the designer raised in the suburbs of Detroit has launched fragrances, cosmetics and a limited edition Barbie, all with her signature eclectic style: A mix of girly and ethnic, flea-market funky and babydoll-swing. For fall, Anna's serving up deep, rich colors, tons of texture and a dash of whimsy, in outfits seemingly inspired by gypsy foreign exchange students and Hollywood-style Native Americans. Check out the 10-image annotated gallery, below.

Fashion Show

Jennifer — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:30:00 EST

At this point, Michael Kors is probably better known as the judge who says outrageous things on Project Runway than as a real, working designer. But real and working he is: Although it did have its Boca Raton moments, Kors' fall/winter 2008 collection shown earlier today stuck to the contemporary, casual luxe formula that's become synonymous with the designer's name. The long dresses in particular were good enough to eat! (We'll pass on the suits and capri leggings, though.) An annotated 10-image gallery begins below.

Fashion Show

Jennifer — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:20:00 EST

Nanette Lepore is known for designs heavy on the frills and tight on the tailoring; garments for sleek mommies and poised, aspiring ones. Her most recent collection, however, fell a little short. The separates were nothing special: One too many a horizontal stripe hugged a hip, and bold prints seemed more tacky than adventurous. A 10-image gallery with further commentary begins below.

Marc, Narciso, Behnaz & Monique Incite Mini-Revolutions

Jennifer — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST

Four major labels — Marc by Marc Jacobs, Behnaz Sarafpour, Monique Lhuillier, and Narciso Rodriguez — showed their fall looks late yesterday, and though the collections seemed, at first, completely different, there was a major thematic similarity: namely, that they played against type. Rodriguez, celebrating his 10-year anniversary, worked with images from his own archives, playing with his signature body-conscious dresses and adding in some new silhouettes like boxy suits and jackets. Lhuillier, best known for her sophisticated yet playful eveningwear, upped the ante with looks that were less pretty and more punky. Sarafpour funked it up this season, sticking to her traditional shapes but infusing them with a rebellious palette and unexpected textiles. And as for Jacobs, well, he proved that he still has it, despite the naysayers who suggest otherwise: his diffusion line was youthful, vibrant, fresh, and never sophomoric. After the jump, Dodai and I annotate 10-image galleries of the good, the bad, and the ugly.

(Click on any image to begin gallery)

Narciso Rodriguez:

Monique Lhuillier:

Behnaz Sarafpour:

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Fashion Show

Jennifer — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST

My name is Jennifer, and I'm a Rodarte-aholic. OK, so I don't actually own anything Rodarte, but I really, really wish I did because I just can't get enough of sister act Laura and Kate Mulleavy's ethereal designs, which look like they're patched together with cotton candy, fairy wings, and the high spirit of Art. The Fall/Winter 2008 collection seemed to be comprised of all those things, as well as a butterfly wing here or there. Or perhaps the looks were watercolored by a naughty woodland nymph? This may make sense if you look for yourself in the gallery that begins below. In a nutshell: It's beautiful.