Pure, Unadulterated Joy

#Style by @NicoleJanowicz, #Fashion Flash with @Jaime_King @DitaVonTeese, #Foodie Fun with @AdrianGrenier

By Joy A. Kennelly

Int'l Stylist, Nicole Janowicz Update

Been busy behind the scenes and finally able to take a break to blog. 

I love working with Int'l Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz, and am learning sometimes things I would normally be shouting about on the rooftops need to be kept under wraps a lot longer than anticipated.:)

I can tell you this though. Nicole has re-connected with Director Dago Gonzalez of Veneno Inc. whom she worked with on Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony: World Tour Video Elements, Slash, and dancers for Paulina Rubio: Nada Puede Cambiarme,  and the Spice Girls: World Tour Video Elements. 

See, it's not all Backstreet Boys and weddings all the time with her! She does other entertaining projects too!:) She is currently styling for two major World Tours with Dago and having a ball.

It's always fun when you work with people you like and who respect your work. Rare in this town, but when you find it it's a treasure which may explain why Woody Allen, Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorcese and so many others keep their same teams film after film.

Remember my blog post on teams with Entourage Actor Adrian Grenier? Here's the link in case you missed it the first go round: Importance of building a team: Why Adrian Grenier, Willow Smith and Gary Oldman are successful.

In any case, back to Nicole. So, if you don't hear anything from me about her, just know great things are perculating behind-the-scenes as we work diligently together.

Her latest Huffington Post article entitled: How To Create A Consistent Style From Wedding Ceremony To Reception is live too.

Here's a brief intro to pique your interest by Nicole Janowicz: "On April 1st, I made an appearance at the "Unveiled Bridal Style Revealed" event in Beverly Hills, Calif., held at the exquisite Beverly Canon Gardens. "Unveiled" is an outdoor bridal event that brings together the best event professionals, resources, and designs for couples to enjoy as they plan for their big day.

I am not married nor am I engaged. Thus, I can only imagine what it must feel like for newly betrothed couples when the engagement haze wears off, and the reality of creating a wedding becomes, well... real. Venues, food, guests, invitations... the details and decisions are seemingly endless. Bridal events, like "Unveiled," are an invaluable resource for couples. They are like the Barneys New York women's shoe department of weddings: the best the industry has to offer, in one place, and with smiling, friendly people waiting to chat and help!

My team and I were on-site to talk with brides about all things wedding fashion and style including: upcoming trends, choosing your wedding gown, choosing bridesmaids dresses to compliment every personality and figure, how to style your groom and groomsmen, and much more.

One bride in particular asked my advice on how to wear different ceremony and reception dresses, while maintaining a consistent style. My conversation with said bride inspired this article because I know she is not the only woman grappling how to wear two different dresses, while maintaining one overall look.

So, let's talk it out..." Click here to continue reading: http://huff.to/ItgDYY

I can also tell you she's been invited to speak before the Wedding Industry Professional Association sometime next month. Still nailing down the particulars, but it will be great. The organzier is very good at what she does and we're excited to participate. (I know, I said "we," but I get excited with my clients, what can I say?:)

Other things are bubbling and will be announced in due time. SO! That's the latest with Nicole.

FASHION FLASH

Since you've been patient, I thought I would share some fashion highlights I've been receiving from other publicists because now that summer is upon us it's fun to see what all the stars are wearing and doing.

I was pleasantly surprised to receive this highlight of Actress Jaime King wearing ban.do since Nicole has styled her in the past for LADirect Magazine (purchased years back by another publication.)

Isn't this a cute headband and look? Jaime looks like such a Southern belle I love it.

Jaime King wore ban.do on a recent episode of Hart of Dixie! The model turned actress sparkled in a glam crystal headband ($225); www.shopbando.com. 

 

 

 

My friends and I love Austin and really beautiful jewelry there. Have you heard of another Jamie named Jamie Pope? Well, Jamie decided to design her own jewelry line when she couldn't find what she liked and tcreated the Liz James collection.

Have to say, fashionista's everywhere are happy she's designing if this picture is any indication:

If a trip to Austin isn't in your plans any time soon, shop her designs online here: www.lizjames.com.

Now, since it's getting sunnier and sunnier, here's some fun shades called Lumete which means a precious object used for protection and luck, and lumen, meaning light.

One of our favorite strip tease artists, Dita Von Teese, (I know the PC term is Burlesque, but let's call a spade a spade people.:), loves 'em. If you can believe it, I actually saw her perform at a private birthday for an 80 plus year old mom of a very wealthy son's party up in Rolling Hills Estates years back.

Dita is good at what she does! The men in the crowd were cheering and all the rest of us were just amazed the mom had agreed to this performance.:)

Doesn't Dita look glamourous and mysterious in her "summer sunnies" as the publicist calls  'em? Love this look!

 Check them out online too here: http://lumete.com/catalog/category/view/s/collection/id/3/

FOODIE FUN

Oh, and I also received the news two cool people I've written about in the past, Entourage Actor, Adrian Grenier, and Stonyfield Farm chairman Gary Hirshberg were at the recent opening of a new natural and organic restaurant at Chelsea Piers last night, Chelsea’s Table, which Gary also founded.

Aren't they cute?:) Hey Adrian, Nicole would love to work with you if you're not already with a stylist!:)

Photo credit: Brian Ach /AP Images for Chelsea's Table

Chelsea’s Table features natural, organic and local ingredients in a fast-casual atmosphere proving that “healthy fast food” is not an oxymoron. (Just like Stonyfield Farm's organic yogurt I had the fun time promoting last year. You can view all the fun pix from the Family Love Fest here in my blog: http://bit.ly/ihsNZk just keep clicking.:)

Gary and Adrian formed their friendship two years back when Adrian launched his eco-media platform SHFT (http://www.shft.com) which supports environmentally conscious and sustainable living. 

You can view more info about Chelsea’s Table here: http://prn.to/I1knTg.

Okay, that's all for now. I'm hungry and dinner's calling. Hope you enjoyed the read!

Int'l Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, @NicoleJanowicz's busy life w/@BackstreetBoys @MilaHermanovski @tylershields @Unveiledla @FIDMSanDiego @WIPA_USA

By Joy A. Kennelly

I always enjoy writing a wrap-up of my client, Int'l Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz's styling work because it's invariably so different we're both never bored.

Take this for example. Nicole has been hired to style a pilot for a super secret TV show which has a lot of buzz in certain circles. I can't say much more than that for now, but trust me, if/when this gets picked up it's going to be fascinating and fun to watch!

She recently styled Project Runway Designer, MIla Hermanovski's show at LA Fashion Week. Mila's designs were featured on the front page of Women's Wear Daily, in NY Magazine, LA Fashion Magazine, and Racked LA.

  Photo credit Tim Regas

 
Photos by Amy Graves via WWD

Then of course, there's always all the styling Nicole does of the Backstreet Boys. Imagine styling four unique individuals into a cohesive image for their world tour which launched today, April 20th. This meant preparing wardrobe for six changes per night for each guy and preparing all this for their entire six week tour. I really don't know how she does it, but Nicole's unflappable.

Even when a designer doesn't deliver (which rarely happens, but this last time did), she always manages to make everything run smoothly. She pulls rabbits out of hats and in doing so, meets new people to work with who are even more amazing.

This will be the first world tour she hasn't gone on, but now that her time is free until their return we anticipate lots of other opportunities to pop up. They always do!

She had a lot of fun styling the guys for their appearance at Perez Hilton's recent Mad Hatter birthday party on March 24 which benefited VH1's Save the Music Foundation.
You can still donate till April 27 if you click this link: http://www.crowdrise.com/perezbirthday2012 

Help Perez reach his goal! 

Here's some pix of some of the guys at the event if you click these links: AJ McLean, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell. And the best one is here: Backstreet Boys. Or even better, check this out. 

Nicole styled them in bright jewel colors in keeping with the Mad Hatter theme. Don't you love AJ's hat? And the Christian Louboutin shoes? 

I'm including a few videos just because they're fun, but continue on past too because there's a lot more to share above and beyond the styling she does for the Backstreet Boys.

Nicole is very involved in AJ's look for his new album which will launch in June. For a fun look at their image over the years, click here: http://www.ajmclean.com/releases

 

 

 

Nicole also styled AJ McLean & his new wife, Rochelle, for Photographer Tyler Shield's gallery show on May 20 called Mouthful. Here's the invite in case you're in Los Angeles.

Here's a few sneak peeks of some of the images. Mark your calendars because I've seen the rest and they're just as stunning. I love photographic fine art and he's very avant garde. Nicole says this shoot was a lot of fun because he's so creative and AJ & Rochelle are always up for anything she does.

Nicole also styled emerging artist, Sydney Rose, and a swimwear editorial shoot for Fault Magazine, both of which should be available to share this summer.

Continuing to build upon her wedding styling business, Nicole made an appearance at Unveiled Bridal event held at the beautiful Beverly Canon gardens. Here's her booth.

The lucky raffle winner who won a one-hour consultation with Nicole is: Taline Bedrossian. More information coming soon to all the attendees. Despite the wind, it was a huge success and Nicole looks forward to working with bridal couples seeking to create a unique and cohesive look for their engagement, wedding, and reception pictures.

President, Plan A, Tarin Wilson had this to say about Nicole's involvement:

"Int'l Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz, was a delightful and unique addition to Unveiled, Los Angeles’ most stylish and high end bridal event. Styling bridal couples is such a new concept and Nicole’s knowledge, experience and grace puts her at the forefront of this idea. She is a talent to watch.

We look forward to working together again soon."

Stay tuned because good things are in the works in this regard. Nicole is also traveling to Nashville, TN late May and we anticipate her making a few appearances in the Southeast too.

More details to be announced.

She will also be traveling to Wente Vineyards to speak before the Wedding Industry Professional Association (WIPA) in early June. 

Keeping in touch with her music roots, Nicole also spoke for FIDM San Diego students discussing the genres of work as a stylist (music, ads, editorial, TV, celebrity) and the 10 keys to being a good assistant. Here's a pic from that day.

Nicole contines to guest blog and you can see some of her recent interviews and articles in her new writing portfolio. One of my favorites is the contribution she made to Music Marketing Master, Michael Brandvold, on the key wardrobe items every musician needs, but if you're getting married soon she has some great articles with tips for you too.

Read them all here: http://www.cuttings.me/users/nicolejanowicz

So, that wraps up this week's Fashion Friday edition of Int'l Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz's latest update.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend! 

 

@Dior's 3-volume slipcase set, Dior Fashion, Fine Jewellery, & Perfume recounts history of one of the world’s most celebrated luxury brands.

Bonjour!

Assouline is so pleased to introduce Dior, a three-volume slipcase set, recounting the history of one of the world’s most celebrated luxury brands. Christian Dior envisioned a world of sophistication and elegance, a complete expression of the French tradition of high culture, artistry, and meticulous workmanship.

In three retrospective volumes presented in a collectible slipcase, Dior Fashion, Fine Jewellery, andPerfume richly illustrate the couture house’s most iconic images, paying homage to the brand renowned for its refinement and taste.  These books are available in English, French, and Chinese.

To discover all four of Assouline’s Dior tomes, click here.

DIOR
Set of Three: Fashion, Fine Jewellery, and Perfume
Dior Fashion by Caroline Bongrand
Dior Fine Jewellery by Jérôme Hanover 
Dior Perfume by Jérôme Hanover

"I think of my work as ephemeral architecture, dedicated to the beauty of the female body." —Christian Dior

The pinnacle of French haute couture and savoir faire, the house of Dior is one of the world’s most celebrated luxury brands. In three retrospective volumes presented in a collectible slipcase, Assouline’sDior captures the most enduring images from each decade of the brand’s rich history. Immortalizing Dior’s fashion, fine jewelry, and fragrance collections, Assouline presents an objet as chic as its subject.

Dior Fashion: Former editor in chief of L’Officiel de la Mode, Caroline Bongrand is also a novelist and screenwriter. She has published seven novels, translated into many languages, and an essay on the life and issues of modern women. 

Dior Fine Jewellery, Dior Perfume: Jérôme Hanover is a journalist specializing in luxury lifestyle topics. He was editor in chief of Double, and jewelry and watch editor for L’Officiel, and has written for Mixte, Air France magazine, and Le Figaro among other publications.

The Dior slipcase set is available for purchase at ASSOULINE boutiques worldwide and through www.assouline.com. 

Direct link to purchase: http://www.assouline.com/9781614280200.html

 

MUSIC MONDAY: Featuring Carrie Underwood in Oscar De La Renta at the Nashville Symphony

By Joy A. Kennelly

I had the privilege of hearing Carrie Underwood debut her latest hit single, Good Girl, before the rest of the world at the Nashville Symphony in TN during the Nordstrom Oscar De La Renta fundraiser.

 

Although she grew up quite humbly shopping only at Walmart, since winning American Idol she has worn some of the most sophisticated designers in the world. She confided that during American Idol she was so concerned about saving money to attend college, she rarely spent her entire American Idol clothing budget. Looking back she realized image is so important and wish she'd splurged a little.

The night I met her, she was stunning in Oscar de La Renta. 

This was the dress she wore to the press conference. Doesn't she look beautiful?

She changed into this short flirty number to perform and yet another dress for the dinner which I didn't attend.

This was only her third time performing the song and the crowd really enjoyed it. Her husband was unable to attend due to a game. When asked who was more fashionable, her or her husband, Mike Fisher of the Nashville Predators, she exclaimed, "My husband!"

She loves dressing up in cocktail dresses when they go out together. Her height in heels is only 5'3" so you will rarely catch her in flats. The last time she performed at the Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center she received their prestigious Harmony Award. 

You can see her live at the Bayou Country Music Superfest on May 26, 2012. Buy tickets here: http://www.bayoucountrysuperfest.com/tickets/

Her latest album, Blown Away, drops May 1, but you can pre-order here: http://www.myplaydirect.com/carrie-underwood/details/26725604

@NicoleJanowicz appearing @UnveiledLA Sunday, April 1 from 11am - 3:30pm w/@MarthaWeddings @VeraWangGang @LisaVanderpump and more! #unveiled2012

By Joy A. Kennelly

Int’l Celebrity Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz, In Person at Unveiled Bridal Style Revealed Event

Beverly Canon Gardens in Beverly Hills on Sunday, April 1, 2012 from 11am – 3:30pm

International Celebrity Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz, will be in person during the Unveiled Bridal Style Event where she is available for a meet and greet, to answer styling questions and book consultations at her private booth on-site. She is also giving away a free one-hour styling consultation in a raffle drawing so make sure to pop by and sign up.

Nicole’s clientele have included some of the biggest names in music including Grammy Award-Winning Backstreet Boys for the past five years, Keyshia Cole, and other musicians. Actresses/TV Personalities she has styled include Jaime King (“Hart of Dixie,” “Sin City”), Holly Madison (“Holly’s World,” “The Girls Next Door,”) Audrina Partridge (“The Hills,” “Audrina,”) and more.  

Unveiled Bridal Style Event is held at the Beverly Canon Gardens in Beverly Hills on Sunday, April 1, 2012 from 11am – 3:30pm. Buy tickets here: www.unveiledevents.com Hashtag #unveiled2012 

A frequent guest contributor to wedding and fashion blogs, Nicole enjoys sharing her styling expertise both online on such sites as Huffington Post, and in person. As an International Celebrity Wedding Stylist, Nicole works with high profile, society men and women who seek assistance in creating chic, one-of-a-kind looks for their engagement pictures, weddings and receptions.

Recently collaborating with famed Wedding Planner, Mindy Weiss, Nicole styled Backstreet Boy, AJ McLeans’s Goth-styled engagement pictures  and styled the entire wedding party, including the bride and groom’s wedding outfits and reception changes.    

She has also styled Backstreet Boys’ Brian Littrell and Howie Dorough’s engagement pictures, weddings and receptions.    

Having traveled around the world three times with the Backstreet Boys as their personal stylist and travels of her own, Nicole also often draws on her love of traveling and adventure for inspiration in creating new looks for her clients.  Whether hunting through racks in a Tokyo showroom, digging in a London vintage boutique, or meeting with an up-and-coming designer in Saigon, she won’t rest until she finds the perfect pieces for a special wedding look.

Based in Los Angeles, Nicole Janowicz specializes in helping her clients define, refine, and communicate their unique style and image.

For more information, please review her website: www.nicolejanowicz.com.

Follow her on Twitter: @NicoleJanowicz

Stay up-to-date on her appearances and styling tips and become a fan on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IntlCelebrityWeddingStylistNicoleJanowicz

Follow her on Huffington Post here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nicole-janowicz/

Unveiled Bridal Style Event is held at the Beverly Canon Gardens in Beverly Hills on Sunday, April 1, 2012 from 11am – 3:30pm. Buy tickets here: www.unveiledevents.com

And just added to the guest panel today, everyone's favorite British Beverly Hills Housewife, Lisa Vanderpump  and her daughter Pandora, whose recent nuptials were a big ratings draw. This is definitely one bridal event you're not going to want to miss if you're engaged and getting married soon! Don't forget to pop by Nicole's booth!

Unveiled Bridal Style Event is held at the Beverly Canon Gardens in Beverly Hills on Sunday, April 1, 2012 from 11am – 3:30pm. Buy tickets here: www.unveiledevents.com Hashtag #unveiled2012 

@OscarPRgirl: Oscar de la Renta Fashion Pre-Fall Preview @NashvilleSymph Part II with #LAFW and #FashionStar highlights

By Joy A. Kennelly

As my client, Int'l Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz, styles tonight's AW2012 runway show for    M I L A, the eponymous collection by Mila Hermanovski whose appearance on Project Runway (both as a finalist of season 7 and as a currently airing All-Star) and subsequent capsule collections have been shown to great reviews, I satisfied my longing to attend LA Fashion Week by watching the premiere of Fashion Star last night which was a blast.

 

(More on that in another blog.)

However, all the shows at LA Fashion Week and last night's Fashion Star simply pale in comparison to the recent Oscar de la Renta fall preview fashion show I was fortunate to attend as part of the Nordstrom fundraiser for the Nashville Symphony held recently in TN.

I have a degree in Fashion Merchandising and studied fashion at FIDM in Los Angeles back in the day which is why seeing one of my favorite all-time designers, Oscar de la Renta, was a special thrill. The company, established in 1965, currently produces a full line of women’s accessories, bridal, home decor and fragrances, in addition to its signature women’s ready-to-wear collection. 

To me, his design house is the epitome of all that is haute couture and it was certainly true that night.  After guests enjoyed the cocktail reception, we were all ushered into the symphony hall where we were welcomed by emcee, radio and television personality, Storme Warren. 

The boisterous crowd was soon quieted by members of the symphony performing a live intro to Coldplay's song, Paradise, conducted by Steve Kummer before transitioning seamlessly to DJ Javiere for the rest of the song. This back-n-forth between live music and DJ continued throughout the entire evening which was amazing to watch and hear.

Here's highlights of the daywear looks followed by my favorite, eveningwear. There were over 68 outfits presented and it was breathtaking to behold. Make sure to notice the intricate ankle and hair accessories because they enhanced each look. 
Photo credits for the following images are Susan Adcock and Peyton Hoge who do an excellent job of capturing the essence of the show. It's amazing what a difference it makes when a professional shoots fashion since they realize the entire look is important.

This last blouse was one of my favorites. The intricacy and attention to detail in the beading on such delicate fabric is phenomenal. I liked how the floral skirt accented by hosiery with polka dots and the striking jet black hair and porcelain skin of the model completed the look too.

We then began moving into eveningwear and these are more highlights of my favorites. Photo credits for the following images are again: Susan Adcock and Peyton Hoge.

I love these silver dresses. Each were so unique and so feminine. Very beautiful on either a blonde or a brunette too.

Isn't this so gorgeous? Spanish inspired in my mind.

Here's the grand finale. Now imagine viewing all 68 designs to Coldplay's Viva La Vida song with a live symphony orchestra and you'll have a taste of what a Grand Finale this truly was.

The final dress is my absolute favorite out of everything. I think it would make a magnificent bridal gown, or statement dress for any red carpet appearance or high profile fundraiser where you want to stand out from the crowd.

Don't you agree? STUNNING!I loved the rich jewel tones of all the rest of the gowns too.

Side view. Notice the detail? This  is what sets haute couture apart from everything else.

Part III later where I will share Carrie Underwood's performance after the fashion show.

WHAT A NIGHT!:)

 

 

 

 

 

 

@OscarPRGirl Here's Part 1 of my @Nordstrom's @NashvilleSymph Fundraiser with Oscar de la Renta Fall Preview and @CarrieUnderwood #Fashion #Music

By Joy A. Kennelly

Recently I was privileged to cover Nordstrom's Nashville Symphony Fashion Fundraiser which featured five-time GRAMMY® winner Carrie Underwood and an exclusive presentation of Oscar de la Renta’s Pre-Fall 2012 collection this past February.

It was a beautiful evening start to finish. I'm breaking this into three parts because there is too much to discuss. Tonight, enjoy this coverage of the actual hall and start of the show. More to come soon!

We arrived at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and were struck immediately by the beauty of the $123.5 million home of the Nashville Symphony. Although built to look historic, it actually opened as recently as 2006.      

Pretty soon the courtyard was teeming with Nashville society women excitedly chattering and drinking cocktails in the perfect balmy weather
as staff continued to set up the event inside.     (Please excuse the quality of some of these pix as my photographer has been MIA since returning to Atlanta and these were taken from my phone. The rest of the images are professional photographers who shoot for the symphony and Oscar de la Renta which I will credit accordingly.)

As the doors opened everyone came into the foyer and the excited chatter grew to a dull roar as guests visited with friends and learned where they were sitting.   I recognized a Mary Frances hand bag one of the guests was wearing and made this woman's night.:)   

I was able to sneek a peak inside the hall prior to the show and was greeted by this stunning sight. The Symphony Center seats 1,844 in the Laura Turner Concert Hall and includes the 3,000-square-foot Mike Curb Family Music Education Hall. The floor is adjustable too which is why it looks different from the pictures above.

 

 Notable for its remarkable acoustics and distinctive architecture, this 197,000-square-foot facility has become an integral part of cultural life in Music City and is regarded as one of the finest concert halls in America.

Soon we were ushered inside and hushed into silence by Nashville Symphony musicians performing Coldplay's Paradise song live conducted by Steve Kummer which transitioned back and forth seamlessly to DJ Javiere and his music stylings all throughout the show. 

 
Proceeds from the Nordstrom Symphony Fashion Show will assist the Symphony in reaching more than 95,000 people through free community concerts; bringing world-renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Béla Fleck and Emanuel Ax to perform for local audiences; providing barrier-free music education to thousands of students across Middle Tennessee; and supporting the work of today’s leading composers.

Led by Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero and President and CEO Alan D. Valentine, the GRAMMY^® Award-winning Nashville Symphony has a growing international reputation for its recordings and innovative programming.  With 140 performances annually, the 84-member Nashville Symphony is an arts leader in Nashville and beyond, offering a broad range of classical, pops and jazz concerts; special events; children’s concerts and community outreach programs.

As a national and international ambassador for the citizens of Tennessee, the Nashville Symphony has received far-reaching acclaim for its 19 recordings on Naxos, the world’s leading classical label, and one on Decca, making the Nashville Symphony currently one of the most active recording orchestras in the country.  These recordings have received 13 total GRAMMY^® nominations and six GRAMMY^® wins — three for Joan Tower’s Made in America in 2008 and three for Michael Daugherty’s Metropolis Symphony in 2011. The winning categories include “Best Classical Album” (for the Tower recording) and “Best Orchestral Performance” (for the Tower and the Daugherty recordings).

Music education is a top priority for the Nashville Symphony. During the 2010/11 season, the institution reached more than 200,000 adults and children through its education and community engagement programs. These include the flagship initiative One Note, One Neighborhood, which provides comprehensive music education resources to students and teachers underserved public schools. Working in partnership with Metro Nashville Public Schools and the W.O. Smith/Nashville Community Music School, the Nashville Symphony doubled its reach through this program in the last year, serving East Nashville’s Stratford cluster and North Nashville’s Pearl-Cohn cluster with curriculum materials, professional development and individual music instruction, all offered to schools at no cost. 

Tomorrow Part II!

#FashionFriday! @NicoleJanowicz's wedding blog, @UnveiledLA personal appearance and @milahermanovski's show styling

By Joy A. Kennelly

Quick update on my client, International Celebrity/Wedding Stylist, Nicole Janowicz before writing about the amazing fundraiser Nordstrom sponsored for the Nashville Symphony featuring Oscar de la Renta fashions and Carrie Underwood performing.

Next! I promise!

Moving right along...

Nicole recently guest blogged for Florida-based wedding site which was rescheduled to next Friday, March 16 by the blog owner. Ladies, you will want to read this blog for all Nicole's tips on the perfect wedding look. Plus, you'll have a sneak peek at the private Backstreet Boys' weddings so should be fun!

On Sunday, April 1, from 11 a.m to 3:30 p.m., join Nicole at the Unveiled Bridal Show in Beverly Hills where she will share her styling expertise to create your perfect engagement, wedding and reception looks at her booth.

Set amidst the gorgeous Beverly Canon Gardens, Unveiled will reveal the most brilliant bridal showcase yet, with the addition of a live Vera Wang 2012 runway show in the adjacent Montage Beverly Hills. The outdoor soiree will feature the finest in catering, cakes, décor, floral, beauty, entertainment, photography and more. Plus, access to the industry’s top experts, including “State of the Union” address by Darcy Miller—authority on all things wedding and Editorial Director of Martha Stewart Weddings. 

     

Enjoy highlights of last year in the above video. Click here for more details, or to buy a ticket. More details to come on what Nicole will be presenting!

In the meantime, join Designer Mila Hermanovski on March 14 for Mila's fashion show which Nicole is also currently styling. Here's the official invite:

"You are invited to attend the AW2012 runway show of M I L A, the eponymous collection by Mila Hermanovski whose appearance on Project Runway (both as a finalist of season 7 and as a currently airing All-Star) and subsequent capsule collections have been shown to great reviews.

Continuing the tradition of being heavily influenced by art and important movements in art history, the AW 2012 collection takes inspiration from the op art of the fifties and later west coast conceptualism."

Nicole will be attending numerous LA Fashion Week events so look for her there too. Thanks.

Do you suffer from ugly cleavage wrinkles? Then do I have a product for you! LOL Intimia!!!!

The Golden Globes, The SAG Awards, The Oscars, The Grammy's. Most of the women who attend these awards  have one thing in common-- their plunging V-neckline dresses.

Although, collagen breaks down as we age resulting in ugly cleavage wrinkles, which can make women feel self conscious in gowns like these. But, when special events come up, who doesn't want to look and feel like a million bucks? Yet-- who has the million bucks to afford costly retinol and laser treatments at the doctors' office.

This is where Intimia  steps in. When women want to look like a star in their dress but don't have the cash to rid themselves of the pesky lines, women can sleep with this product at night to smooth out the existing wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming-- the product works by separating the breasts. Due to its adjustable straps that go across the back, Intimia fits women of all sizes and stays on comfortably, regardless if the wearer tosses and turns at night.

For more information, please visit www.intimia.com.

(I was pitched this product as stated in the above copy and am having a hard time deciding if I should accept their offer of one to try it out myself. I keep staring down at my cleavage trying to see if there are any pesky wrinkles, but think I'm good. Want to check for me too? LOL

Plus, doubt I'll be wearing a plunging neckline any time soon.:) But for those of you who will or do, please check it out and let me know what you think! I know breasts are a big deal in Hollywood - real or fake!

Int'l Celebrity Stylist @NicoleJanowicz: Backstreet Boys' AJ McLean's Goth Wedding, LV Fashion Week, and more #FWLV #BackstreetBoys

By Joy A. Kennelly

I recently signed a new client, International Celebrity Stylist, Nicole Janowicz, and when I'm writing for clients, I just don't have time to blog as much. That said, now that her marketing materials are ready I can start writing again.

You can review her website here: http://nicolejanowicz.com to see what we've been working so hard to share with everyone. Nicole's an AMAZING stylist and has worked with very talented, high-profile people. Very excited to be working together! 

Here's a quick highlight of her background and experience:

"Whether it’s a red carpet event, a world concert tour, an awards show, a music video, album packaging, an editorial photo shoot, or a private wedding, International Celebrity Stylist Nicole Janowicz creates eclectic, chic, and one-of-a-kind looks for every client.

She has styled Grammy award-winning musicians including the Backstreet Boys, Guns N' Roses, Keyshia Cole, No More Drama, to mention a few. Actresses/TV Personalities include Jaime King (“Hart of Dixie”, “Sin City”), Missy Peregrym(“Reaper,” ”Rookie Blue”), Holly Madison (“Holly’s World,” “The Girls Next Door”) and Crystal Audigier, for their public and private appearances. Her clients consistently appear on the media’s best dressed lists and on the pages of In Style, In Style Weddings, Rolling Stone Japan and In Touch Magazine, among others."

You can see more of her work by clicking here: http://nicolejanowicz.com  Enjoy! You will be hearing more about Nicole very soon nation-wide.

In fact, pick up a recent issue of In Touch Weekly to see how she styled Backstreet Boys' AJ McLean's Goth Wedding. She has also styled two other Backstreet Boys' wedding's, Howie Dorough and Brian Littrell,  including their engagement pictures, and multiple outfit changes during the receptions too. 

Here's a sneak peek of AJ's:

Nicole is also styling Designer Mila Hermanovski's Fashion Week Las Vegas fashion show happening February 12, 2012 in Las Vegas baby. We're just waiting on the invitation and press release which is coming this week. As soon as I know more details you will be among the first to know!:)

Here's MILA   and an introduction to her line:

"Heavily influenced by art and design, Mila's Fall 2012 collection takes inspiration from the op art movement of the 1950s-60s.  Subtle shifts of color and greyscale are explored through simultaneous contrast in an homage to Josef Albers; while ever-shifting seams, textures, patterns, and hemlines provide a juxtaposition and the meeting of planes in the garments, honoring the work of the likes of Bridget Riley and John McLaughlin."

You can find out more information about the entire show here: http://www.fashionweek-lasvegas.com/

More good news on Nicole to report soon! I promise!

 

 

@GoldenGlobes South Coast Style Party wrap-up! Thx 2 @JFPresents @Caribou_Coffee @Cellar_56 @lilcakebakery @Joxasa @prohibitionatl Massage by Pace and everyone who attended too.

By Joy A. Kennelly

Finally!:) Here's the wrap-up of our Golden Globes Party South Coast Style. Gail Tassell of Acuity Entertainment Management and I decided spur of the moment to host a Golden Globes Party South Coast Style after seeing no one else was doing one in Atlanta. I moved here from Hollywood where you celebrate every awards show and felt we needed to celebrate here too.

Within a week of working hard, we nailed down Jerry Farber's Side Door private night club in the Landmark Diner, a Golden Globes girl, celebrity guests, and wonderful sponsors who included:

 
 

 
 (We still have to schedule our private VIP Cigar party at Prohibition for those who won this contest. Can't wait!:)

Here's the final official Golden Globes Party South Coast Style invitation to give you an idea of the graphic design skills Gail also possesses from her other career as an award-winning advertising agency called Creative Studio 2 and all the fun details of our event:

Pretty nice, eh?:) We make a great team. She has graphic design skills I don't have whereas I have PR,social media marketing and event producing skills she doesn't have. We also think of whatever the other doesn't and just do what needs to be done without being asked which is very nice in a business relationship. We're looking foward to partnering on other projects so hire us already.:)

Over 50 guests attended and everyone really enjoyed the great meal Landmark Diner prepared; the fun raffle prizes donated by our wonderful sponsors for best costumes and other contests; the impromptu singing by our Golden Globes Girl, India Hopkins, performed during one of the many commercial breaks; meeting our celebrity guests, Actor Tony Vaughn
and Actor/International Model Billy Payne; mixing and mingling with all the other film and TV fans enjoying the Golden Globes; and experiencing Jerry Farber's Side Door nightclub overall.

Big thank you to all our sponsors, Jerry Farber, Jed Fearon, Landmark Diner, Scott and Priti, Jay & Teddy, and everyone else who helped. We feel this first-time event was a huge success and thank everyone for coming out too!

Here's a pictorial essay of the evening for your viewing pleasure.  

    

 

   

  

 

 

  

Fun Friday #Fashion Style, Sightings, and Shows (TV & Film) Featuring @JacLaurita of @bravotv @GwenStefani @SimonHelberg @EvaLongoria @ddlovato @MadonnaNation and more

By Joy A. Kennelly

PREFACE: Just started writing for Atlanta's Backstage Beat website and wrote my first review of the recent Music Midtown Festival which you can read here: Music Midtown Atlanta... A Great Experience. Do me a favor and like or tweet it out if you like it ok? I would appreciate your support.:)

I'm toying with writing a fashion recap every Friday so if you like this let me know! Send me your fashion tips and highlights here: joykennelly1 (at) gmail (dot) com.

Here's some fun fashion tips and sightings I received over the last few weeks followed by some of the fashion shows I attended a few weeks back. 

 Happy to hear Jacqueline Laurita is leaving Desperate Housewives of New Jersey. She always seemed too sweet to be part of all the drama. Her tweet said it all, "I can’t be a part of the Charade anymore. It’s unsettling. It’s disturbing & against what I stand for. I’m a REAL housewife.”

She followed up this tweet with her expectations of the future, “I’d like to only focus on positive things now please. I threw the trash out. I’m cleaning now and reorganizing. Starting fresh and new.”

Sounds smart to me. Enough with trashy TV.

Did you hear Gwen Stefani is launching a kid's clothing line at Target? I've always admired her style and music. "Inspired by the playful style found in Japan’s trendy Harajuku district, the collection is Target’s newest design collaboration and Gwen’s most extensive children’s and baby collection to date." 

Isn't it cute? Click here for the entire article: Big Style: Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Mini for Target

Have to give a little plug for this couple, Simon Helberg and Jocelyn Towne, seeing as I was featured in their independent film, I Am I, before leaving CA. (Click the link to see their amazing Kickstarter campaign too.)

Bet you didn't realize men under 5'8" had a designer who creates their amazing outfits for all the big events, did you? I know I sure didn't! Jimmy Au's claim to fame is helping short men feel and look their best as the US’ ONLY designer short men’s store outfitting actors including 4 of this year’s Emmy nominees including Seth Green, Steve Carell, Mark Wahlberg, Simon Helberg and many others.

All these short men may explain why I'm not cast more often when I'm 5'10"! LOL

And it may explain why Latina firecracker and one of the original Desperate Housewives, Eva Longoria, was chosen for the recent Alma Awards. 

Darlings, here's what jewelry she was wearing since I know you're dying to know if you haven't heard already. "Eva Longoria chose four pairs of her favorite Bochic earrings (designed by David Joseph) to accompany her stunning outfit changes at the 2011 NCLR ALMA Awards in Santa Monica, CA. Her look for arrivals was simple and distinct – she chose a smoky pair of oversized drops with diamond detailing at the ear.  

  While hosting she chose three carved pairs, one archival jade in a pale green color with distinct metal work and one black jet – both with diamond accents - at the ear."
 
 I'm sure this isn't Eva's favorite pic, but hey, you go with what you're given. Aren't the jade earrings gorgeous? So delicate and intricately designed. I'm not sure they're the same as what she's wearing, but I like this pair the best.

Look how cute Demi Lovato looked when she was on Jimmy Kimmel Live recently wearing "statement rings, elegant Philip Press gold multi-hoop earrings with diamonds and a Beverly Jill Designs gold wrap cuff" with her itty bitty leopard print mini.

I saw her recently on The Ellen Show (which I am boycotting today since she had on Nancy Pelosi yesterday who I can't stand and has been getting too political lately. Just make me laugh lady ok?)

I was really impressed on how far Demi's come since her breakdown. Go girl! Now start wearing dresses that cover up more!:) Kinda worried she might have had a wardrobe malfunction any minute here!

Guess strapless dresses with large bracelets and earrings are the going style these days since "Dancing With the Stars beauty Cheryl Burke hosted a pre-Emmy party with cast member Derek Hough on Friday, September 16th in Los Angeles and looked amazing in a red strapless dress accessorized with Prive Jewellery earrings and a Soffer Ari cuff.  The star was decked out in diamonds with Prive Jewellery’s white gold and diamond earrings from their ‘Kreol’collection and Soffer Ari’s sterling silver 'Vieux Carre Red Fellas White and Black Diamond Cuff' embedded with skulls and diamonds." (PR writing, can you tell? I love not having to write anything because it makes my life easier.:)

And to wrap up the professional PR plugs (have you enjoyed them? Shall I continue next week?:), here's the Material woman herself, Madonna, wearing YSL Sunglasses. 

"Available at SOLSTICE Sunglass Boutiques, these Yves Saint Laurent sunglasses (model YSL2320/S) shades went perfectly with the star’s signature cross necklace. Always a leader in the fashion industry, Madonna also launched her Material Girl clothing line recently with her daughter Lourdes."

Now, on a more personal note, here's some of my fashion pix (blurry ones are more for the effect than trying to be true photos. I thought they kinda looked like surreal art which is why I'm including them. Plus, then you get a little peek into some of the fun Atlanta fashion shows.)

As I mentioned before, had front row seats near Real Housewives of Atlanta Hair Stylist, Derek J, for the Betsey Johnson show. I liked seeing more African American models on the runway out here in Atlanta. Betsey's trends are plaid, taffeta, lots of pink, and black too.  

In no particular order, here are some of the fun, flirty fashions showcased. Too junior for me, but well-received by the filled to capacity crowd.

     

More my taste because of the sheer elegance of the entire event, A Night to Remember, follows. Here's the entrance alone...:) Afterward, I saw one of my favorite African American models from Seventeen because I've followed model's careers since high school and have to admit, teared up meeting her.

I realized I had just attended a one-of-a-kind fashion show featuring all African American models except for one Caucasion woman and it was so special. We will probably never see another one like it, but I wish this wasn't the case because it was stunning and memorable.

She agreed and was so gracious. Always love meeting people I admire and finding out they're just as down-to-earth and humble as everyone despite their achievements. Real class act.

Next up is my Driven Music Conference coverage. I promise! 

@Fashioncares Wrap-up Part Two - All the #fashion you could want! Atlanta Fashion's Night Out here I come...

By Joy A. Kennelly

Finally had time to review over 200 images I was sent featuring last week's amazing 19th Annual Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta Fundraiser benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Fund (AAF). 

Spent the last few days prior to, and during the holiday, writing and re-writing my book proposal which is a very time-intensive endeavor; hence the delay. My apologies...

Some quick fashion highlights to notice as you review the pictures of attendees, Co-Chairs, and models. Be prepared for the following: capes were huge (literally and figuratively); thigh-high slits up the front of ball gowns were prevalent; satin, jersey, chiffon, brocade, leather and feathers were common; and lots of black and grey with pops of color like orange, blue, red, and emerald green with more muted tones like cream as well.

You will no doubt, see more trends as you peruse my pictorial essay courtesy Ben Rose Photography too. Jeffrey, the founder of this event, has phenomenal connections to some of the most amazing design houses by virtue of his relationship with Nordstrom and his own retail stores.

As a result, this fashion show was a visual feast of fashion! I love my Los Angeles designers, but it's been fun seeing designers I've normally only seen in magazines too!

So, now, without further ado, here's the rest of the pictures I've been promising you.... If you're in the know, you will recognize many of these faces too.

Publicist, Caren West; Stylist/Designer, Randolph Duke, Founder/Chair/Fashion Pioneer, Jeffrey Kalinsky; Co-Chair, Lila Herst; Guest Designer, Jason Wu; Co-Chair, Louise Sams; Co-Chair, Jeffrey McQuithy; Honorary Chair, Dennis Deans; Ne Ne of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, others anyone?

Jeffrey Fashion Cares Wrap-up Part 1 #fashionista #charity #JasonWu #Atlanta

By Joy A. Kennelly

This past Monday I was invited to attend "THE" fashion event of the season, Jeffrey Fashion Cares, which, according to their research "appears financially, to be among the largest 3rd party events in all of Atlanta’s philanthropic endeavors." 

And I was there darlings and I am going to share my experience with you now.:)

Jeffrey Fashion Cares is the brain child of Jeffrey Kalinsky, who along with his amazing Event Co-Chairs, Lila Hertz, Jeffrey McQuithy and Louise Sams (seen here below) and their amazing planning committee and host committee, created a wonderfully stylish, hip, fun and fabulous fashion fundraiser unlike any I've ever attended in Los Angeles.

But when you consider the fact how connected and accomplished all of the people involved are, it's no wonder! Google their names to see what I mean...

Our evening started off on the 32nd floor of the 12th & Midtown complex which set the stage for the sophisticated evening since the views from the floor to ceiling windows were stunning. Photo Credit: Stylist Robert Ballew

When we entered the room from the elevators guests were greeted by a steam curtain with various logos flashing across as we walked through it to the red carpet and on to the raw space. The fashion show area was hidden by white curtains surrounding the entire runway and seating leaving me very curious, but I was soon distracted by the wonderful people watching.

The Who's Who of Atlanta were there in force and since I'm so new to the city I have no idea who anyone was, but knew instantly this was a very high-end crowd by virtue of the gowns, jewels, shoes, and handbags. The guys looked great too.:)

Although I came alone, I never felt uncomfortable because everyone was gracious and having a wonderful time posing for pictures, admiring and bidding on the silent auction items while enjoying the delicious cocktails and appetizers presented by Honorary Chair, Dennis Dean, owner of Dennis Dean Catering, which "boasts a client list of Atlanta’s top corporate, retail, social and non-profit entities."

I had fun meeting the manager of Jeffrey's Atlanta retail store, Stylist Robert Ballew who I schmoozed around with, and Donald Gesell of Neiman Marcus, assistant to one of the Chairs of the event and others too.

I did see NeNe of the Real Housewives of Atlanta, but missed saying hello.:) 

Thanks @Cision! Enjoy @HughJackman and Deborra-Lee Furness in @WorldVision's promo and sneak peek of my Jeffrey @FashionCares review. #fashionista #faminenomore #charity

By Joy A. Kennelly

Since I last wrote, my blog was selected by Cision, a leading "international media database with more global contacts, more outlets, more detailed profiles than any other solution." Very honored to be included because this means I'll be able to share even more interesting things because now publicists pitch me rather than me having to chase everything down.

Yay me.:)

As I'm working, here's a couple videos you might enjoy until I finish my coverage of the wonderful 19th Annual Jeffrey Fashion Cares fundraiser I attended this past Monday at the hip 12th & Midtown 32nd Floor in Downtown Atlanta.

What an amazing event and view! See what I mean? Photo courtesy of Stylist Robert Ballew who was kind enough to shoot this for me when I wasn't able to. We had fun schmoozing together too.Founded by Jeffrey Kalinsky, a renowned New York and Atlanta retailer, Fashion Cares raised over $600,000 for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Fund (AAF) last year with .93 cents of each dollar actually helping these charities.

Don't hear this that often now do you? Love being part of positive charity endeavors that truly help.This is just one of the gorgeous gowns showcased. More designs to follow I promise. It always takes me awhile to get everything into one blog post so bear with me. My fashion review of the entire event is coming!

In the meantime enjoy this information courtesy of my new Cision recognition...

I like Hugh Jackman and love World Vision's efforts to help children in East Africa having lived in Kenya, Africa myself. Anything African holds a special place in my heart as a result.

Join Hugh Jackman and and his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness in supporting World Vision's global campaign to say "Famine No More." 

Don't miss "Summer in the Shade" at Grant Park - last day is Sunday, August 28 11am - 6:30pm #festival #in

By Joy A. Kennelly

Today my friends and I hit the unique Summer in the Shade Festival at Grant Park, Atlanta's oldest park, which was very fun. Lots of great jewelry (make sure to visit our friend's booth, Christine Chandler Designs - look for the mermaid logo), clever and interesting art, yummy food, kid's activities like face painting, dress up, performers and lots of sponsors giving away free goodies.

Rather than talk about it only though, here's my pictorial essay for your viewing pleasure... Go tomorrow and if you do, tell our friends Christine and Trace you read about them in my blog.:)

Just an example of the beauty of this park. Love all the trees and pathways.

Wide variety of food vendors available too. And for those who like food & wine festivals, there's always Corks and Forks sponsored by Lincoln. 

This was one of my favorite booths because it was so artistic. The owner makes the most unique eco gifts for kids and adults. Aren't they adorable? Check out Sharon's website here: www.twostixthestore.com and her book, Sweater Renewal.

@LAFashionWeek & @stylesmith Present ‘Los Feliz Fashion Festival’ Debut @LosFelizFaire on Hollywood Blvd. Sunday, July 24th 11am - 10pm #in

‘Los Feliz Fashion Festival’ Debuts on Hollywood Blvd. on Sunday, July 24th 11am - 10pm

LOS FELIZ VILLAGE (Los Angeles, CA), July 7, 2011-  The Los Feliz Village Street Fair today announced that their hotly anticipated new co-located event, the ‘Los Feliz Fashion Festival’ will debut on Sunday, July 24^th.  The Los Feliz Fashion Festival, to be located in the heart of the Fair, will feature the original creations of over 35 clothing, jewelry and accessories designers, including: 

MNKR Clothing, Sri Lalita Clothing, Three Apparel, Della, Nikki Montoya, Geisha de Guadalupe, Lotus B., Evalyn Black, White Sycamore, Artisan LA Jewelry, Marion Romann, Artzgraf Creations, Flea Market Girl, Liza Shtromberg, Fluxus, 50 Dresses, Cowgirl Heaven, and  Dominique Ansari.

Also, look for a ‘Vintage Marketplace’ including A Current Affair, Bows and Arrows and Ozzie Dots.

Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with these creative designers, and score special deals in this exciting outdoor, “trunk show” style environment.  Also look for runway shows, a ‘Make Over’ booth sponsored by POP, a Photo Booth sponsored by Modelwire Network, and a few surprise elements!

The festival will feature a unique fashion show wherein local fashion bloggers will partner with local designers to style and model an extremely fun show - not done before in Los Angeles. Following a theme, a Los Angeles based production group will showcase a never seen before fashion concept - premiering at the Los Feliz Fashion Fest.

The Los Feliz Fashion Festival is being produced on behalf of the Los Feliz Street Fair by Style Entrepreneur Kelsi Smith, fashion blogger at Dedicated Follower of Fashion, Founder of the popular networking association of Los Angeles style and beauty bloggers, Two Point Oh! LA, and her multi- faceted production and branding company: Stylesmith.

Kelsi Smith commenting on the Los Feliz Fashion Festival said: “We are so excited to showcase these fantastic L.A. designers, all of which have been hand-picked to represent what is so wonderful about the design community here: unique, creative and unequivocally L.A.”

“Los Feliz Village has a well deserved reputation as one of the leading style meccas in Los Angeles,” added Chris Serrano, President of the Los Feliz Village Business Improvement District, “We encourage the public to come out, experience the Fashion and all the other wonderful elements of our Fair!”

Where
Hollywood Boulevard between Vermont Avenue and Hillhurst Avenue.  

When
Sunday, July 24^th 11AM – 10PM

Get There
Sunset/ Vermont Metro stop.  Details

Cost
None, unless you want to buy local creations on sale at the festival. All outdoor fashion shows and concerts are FREE.

Fashion Show Schedule
TBA

Download event flyer.

Sponsors of the Los Feliz Fashion Festival include: Two Point Oh! LA, LAFashionWeek.com, Stylesmith, Modelwire Network, USnaps, POP Beauty, Works of Art, Pop Chips, Vitamin Water and the Los Feliz Village Business Improvement District. Producers are also grateful to Council member Tom LaBonge and Council President Eric Garcetti for their great support of this event.

Additional features of the Los Feliz Village Street Fair include: Live music, dancing, drinks, artistic exhibits, ‘Green Scene’ Eco showcase, ‘Mind Body Spirit’ pavilion, a chalk art display, and a full carnival for kids.

For a more info, please visit  www.LosFelizStreetFair.com 

About the Los Feliz Village Business Improvement District

Los Feliz Village Business Improvement District, "LFVBID" is dedicated to improving and promoting businesses in the area of Los Angeles known as Los Feliz Village. "Los Feliz" is Spanish for "The Happy Ones," which perfectly describes the atmosphere of this eclectic village within Los Angeles. Los Feliz Village is nestled below the east Hollywood Hills and is adjacent to Atwater Village and Silver lake. Los Feliz is an endlessly fascinating "walking neighborhood," a rarity in Los Angeles, occupied by many Hollywood celebrities, artists, writers and business professionals. Los Feliz Village boasts some of the most diverse and interesting shops and restaurants in all of Los Angeles.

Patrons come from all over the world to enjoy the hip clothing stores, cutting-edge cuisine and local entertainment. Los Feliz Village is home to trendsetters and tastemakers of all ages. Learn more at: http://www.losfeliz.biz/blog/

About Stylesmith:

Stylesmith is a multi faceted, full service production company. Style guru Kelsi Smith offers services with bucket-fulls of effortless style, From event production, to branding, to photography, styling, writing and her specialisation: digital strategy; Stylesmith is a one stop shop for style.

###

Media Contacts:

John Forrester (323) 702-3684  john (at) johnforrester (dot) com or,

Kelsi Smith, Stylesmith (323) 578-4166  kelsi (at) stylesmithonline (dot) com

 

Jewelry Designer, Bonnie Star and friend, Interior Designer, Luigi Irauzqui. Two of the fun people I met today. #fashion

She has beautiful designs and handsome friends.:) My kind party...

http://thejoywriter.com

Posted via email from The Joy Writer on Posterous

#Social Media Optimization Summits, #Social Media Week, #Start-up Mixer, & #Musicians Institute - Part III Final Wrap-up

By Joy A. Kennelly

Now that my life is settling down a bit, I finally have the time to write about my recent experiences at the Social Media Optimization Summits in Dallas, TX, the recent seminars I attended during Social Media Week here in Los Angeles, the Start-up mixer at Wokcano in Santa Monica I enjoyed, and teaching Social Media and Fan Management at the Musicians Institute.

What some people don't realize, but I'll keep reminding them until they understand this fact, is believe it or not, there are women interested and involved in technology contrary to the young Meetup leader who thought women in the audience at a recent tech event meant we were there solely to look for a husband. lol

Can you believe it? He was a little drunk so I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt for speaking without thinking. Kinda like Jerry Brown allowing his associate to call Meg Whitman a "whore" and then his not apologizing for them during the Gubernatorial debate last night.

 

DUMB and Sexist! I'm really tempted to call Jerry's number and bawl him out since NOW continues to support him. Why? I don't know. Blind adherence to their "religion" I suppose.

But I digress...

Now to give you a little of my tech history. I've been around this industry since the 90's when the dot com craze first hit and produced a very successful online film festival called Media & Entertainment Festival (affectionately nicknamed ME Fest) for Penton Media back in the day.

I have friends who have produced, marketed, and sponsored tech events which I always attend and also keep up-to-date on information by reading and attending conferences. In fact, heading to Las Vegas tomorrow to hit blogWorld too.

I've been incorporating digital marketing into my PR & Marketing strategy for clients for over ten years. I also used to attend all the tech events VIC (Venice Interactive Community) threw and still fondly remember the HUGE party held at the Skirball Center just before the tech crash.

Anyone else remember?:)

If my recent positive experience at Wokcano for the Start-up meeting is any indication of the growth of tech again, I'm sure LA is primed to explode. I enjoyed hearing Investor Mark Suster of GRP Partners sound a rallying cry to tech heads in Los Angeles to stand their ground and refuse to leave for SFO & Seattle to help build up our LA Infrastructure for bigger long-term growth.

I micro-blogged during his talk (editing out his profanity) and you can review that here:

#Mark Suster of GRP Partners speaking @Wokcano

The common thread out of the talks I attended during the Dallas conference seemed to be:

1. Listen to your audience to hear what they're saying about you and your brand

2.Create a strategy based on that research

3. Then contribute.

Here's some highlights of the people I heard once my talk was over.

Jodi Gersh spoke on the Power of Place and analyzed a variety of geo-location tools out there. Her favorite is GoWalla, whereas Jason Falls enjoys Whrrl.

I'm giving Whrrl a whirl although GoWalla is intriguing because of the passport aspect since I love to travel and it would be fun to have a place to showcase my trips while I'm out and about.

I liked having the Geo-Location overview from a marketing person's perspective because then the following week during Social Media Week in Los Angeles, I was able to hear some of the CEO's of even newer geo-location services share their presentations on what made their geo-location service better than the others.

If you click here, and here, it will lead you to my micro-blog coverage of that series on Geo-Location Marketing which was sponsored by Moment Feed. Great evening.

Completely different perspectives and different ways of presenting information, but that's what makes Social Media so interesting. It's constantly evolving due to the creativity and technology utilized by people all over the world.

It's not just about Foursquare people!:) Even though there are now 3 million users using it, this entire type of marketing really isn't mainstream just yet which is limiting it's reach and visibility.

Jodi mentioned even more options too: Foodspotting, footfeed, tri-out, aroundme, tonight.im, m.check.in and to be honest, I haven't had the time to check them out. If you do, let me know what you think.

I ducked in and out of a few Social Media Optimization Summits seminars to make sure I heard as much as possible and if my notes are scarce, that's why.

I popped into Jun Loayza's "How to Implement Ambassador "Experience" Campaigns who stuck with corporate examples for his talk. I never gathered whether or not he was behind the strategies presented, or merely sharing other's successes as examples.

Here's one of his case studies for review. Click the highlighted name to learn more about the actual social media activities for this successful Ford Fiesta launch:

FORD FIESTA MOVEMENT

11 mil social network impressions

2.5 mil shares

11k videos 15k tweets 13k photos

38% gen y

What I enjoyed about his presentation was the direct ROI examples. People still have trouble understanding the value of social media vs. traditional public relations thinking they're separate and don't support each other, but I have never found that to be the case.

Traditional media relations is currently fueled by social media believe it or not. Sometimes the first place journalists learn about what's hot is on social networks. They also regularly read blogs, and constantly comb the internet looking for stories of interest.

I remind people of this all the time, because I have numerous journalists, civic leaders, celebrities, publicists, and others who pop in to read my blog due to my coverage of such a wide variety of topics. I never want to be focused on only one subject because I have a wide interest in all kinds of things and consider my blog more of a magazine style format, than an analysis of just one topic.

Again, I digress.

Back to examples of Ambassador campaigns that worked courtesy of Jun Loayza:

1.      Sharpie Squad - http://blog.sharpie.com/2009/05/meet-the-sharpie-squad/

2.      Red Bull University - http://www.redbullu.com/

3.      The Dew Crew - http://www.carsoncritique.com/college-career/my-job-as-a-mountain-dew-brand-rep-part1/

4.      Charmin – Enjoy the Go http://www.charmin.com/en_US/enjoy-the-go/index.php

As always, Fashion is on the cutting edge of social media and Jun shared how his company had helped create the LG campaign using popular fashion bloggers to spread the news. (Where was my invite? LOL)

Apparently, Jun's company, www.postrank.com, (according to him,) is recommended over Technorati  to find bloggers (which I find hard to believe knowing the CEO of Technorati and learning in another seminar Technorati is considered the 4th largest social network, but hey, Jun may be right among a certain tech demographic...)

His bottom line was determine what you want to accomplish, find the influencers who will help you achieve your goals, and then implement the strategy to achieve your goals. I asked what a band could do to and was given some good ideas which I'll be able to share with my students.

I attended the luncheon where I heard a few speakers including Shashi Bellamkonda from Network Solutions who discussed optional trends in New Media.

He basically gave a bunch of links and a quick highlight of each. You can find it on the company site here somewhere (I don't have time to research it for you.:): http://blog.networksolutions.com/

The speaker I most enjoyed hearing present was Erica Campbell, Senior Manager of New Media Marketing for Rent - Video & Photo Sharing for Optimum Growth & Brand Exposure which you can review here:

Video & Photo Sharing for Optimum Growth & Brand Exposure

View more presentations from Erica Campbell. Be warned, there are 175 slides and trust me, she had to talk REALLY, REALLY fast to go through all of them in the three hours allotted for her chat.

That said, it was great and even though this was applied to the apartment rental industry, the principles apply across the board to any industry and her presentation is excellent.

And I'll close with this speaker since you're probably tired of reading so much data all at once, right?:) Now you know what I feel like after attending all these conferences and seminars! lol

Strategic Planning by Jenn Kane Co.

KD Paine Measurement Checklist:

1.      What are your objectives?

2.      What audiences are you targeting?

3.      How would you prioritize these audiences?

a.      Media, influencers, bloggers, competitors, etc.

b.      Prioritize how you’ll reach them.

4.      What are your Key Performance Indicators?

a.      If this is really working, then>>>>

5.      What is the right measurement tool?

a.      Where will you know you’ve achieved this?

                                          i.     Socialmention.com – free! Use with Kids

                                         ii.     Peoplebrowsr

                                        iii.     Alterian

                                        iv.     Raidan6

                                         v.     Klout

                                        vi.     PR Newswire

                                      vii.     Jive

                                     viii.     www.search.twitter.com

Setting Benchmarks

               To define “Return,” ask:

a.      What are we measuring, and why?

b.      What does success look like?

c.      How will we know when we get there?

d.      Are there incremental milestones worth noting?

There's more, but you should hire Kane Consulting since that's all I have time to cover at the moment. Sorry. :) I enjoyed her talk because I've utilitized a lot of her suggestions as a leader of goal setting groups over the years.

I really enjoyed my experience in Dallas, TX because I was able to hear from a wide variety of speakers from all over the country and everyone was very interesting. Kudos to Tami for putting on a great conference which is sure to only grow as word gets out.

Now here's a great video of the Social Media Week seminar I attended at the House of Blues
entitled: "THE NEXT STAGE OF ENGAGE: BRINGING ONLINE MUSIC COMMUNITIES TO LIFE" with some great panelists.

I learned a lot and had other information confirmed to share with my students.

I'm teaching Social Media & Fan Management in the Musicians Institute's Music Business Program and am delighted to be working with such ambitious entrepreneurial students.

My kind of people!

Okay, that's all for now. Gotta run. I have a store launch to attend with my friend. Let me know what you think of what I've written!

Beverly Hills did #Fashion Night Out right!

By Joy A. Kennelly

This was the first (and last) time I go somewhere without some type of camera. It was killing me all night long!

There were so many great fashions & people watching and art to share! Now you'll just have to read about it instead.

The fashionistas were out in full on Melrose Ave for the Marc Jacobs stores; Diane Von Furstenberg had amazing dresses.

Of course.

Have to admit, watching a size zero woman try on one of my favorite dresses in the store and complain she didn't like how it looked when she was stunning wearing it reminded me why I avoid being friends with neurotic, anorexic women!:)

Enjoyed visiting my favorite stationary store, Soolip, which has the most amazing hand-crafted wrapping paper and gift items curated (there's no other for it since many look like art) by the wonderful owner, Wanda Wen, who I met attending the Lexus event in Beverly Hills awhile back courtesy my friend Elizabeth.

Turns out Wanda's recently written a book entitled, The Art of Gift Wrapping, published by Random House, runs an annual A Soolip Wedding (high-end bridal show), and is writing another book!

Such a talented lady. We had a delightful chat and may work together if all goes well.

Also enjoyed visiting her neighboring store, The Clothespin, run by the designer, a former model in the 70's. I looked at her and said you look familiar.

She said, Well, I'm a celebrity, I should.:) She's been covered in the LA Times and on numerous TV shows. It was a lot of fun chatting with her. Beautiful vintage fabrics, dresses, and other hand-crafted items.

Now the show stopper of the night was Beverly Hills though! It just says something when they close down Rodeo Drive in both directions and put such a great big Ferris wheel in the center of the street.

It says, there's a party here and you're all invited!

We ran to Tiffany's first which was stunning. Delightful baubles, ok yellow diamonds if you really must know.:)

Gorgeous diamond rings, many of which have been on vision boards I've created in the past.

It was also fun to pop in and out of all the haute couture stores too.

We enjoyed Harry Winston's, Roberto Cavalli, and many more.

Walking by the Luxe Rodeo Boutique Hotel reminded me of the many exclusive events I've attended on-site during past Oscar seasons, and also two wonderful events I threw there with friends.

Fun, fun, fun memories!

I love Beverly Hills because you never know who you might run into. Tonight was no exception.

Larry King and his wife were patiently taking pictures with adoring fans while they waited for the light to change.

A little farther down the street Kelly Osbourne was in a group of people being photographed by paparazzi.

The streets were teeming with all kinds of people and it was a lot of fun.

As I told my good friends, Melinda Augustina and Mary, who brought me there, "Fashion makes me happy."

And that's all she wrote. Happy Friday! Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Posted via email from joydacious's posterous

#Fashion, Food and Wine Festival of #Volleyball Champions at #Raleigh Studios in #Manhattan Beach with #Dig4Kids final wrap-up

By Joy A. Kennelly

This past weekend was so packed with fun activities it's taken awhile to compile pix and information to share with you. John Mayer is amazing in concert fyi.:)

So! Without further ado... (All Photos Courtesy Photographer, Angelique Chacon.)

Last Saturday night I attended the Food, Fashion & Wine Festival honoring three amazing Volleyball Champions as part of the Dinner of Champions presented by The Trade Coach and

produced by Brad Jacobson of Civic Couch (l) and Olympic Gold Medalist, Eric Fonoimoana (r) aka "the Body" and Founder of Dig4Kids, the beneficiary of the evening.

Now here's the Beach Volleyball greats who were honored:

Linda Hanley aka Linda Robertson who has a great sense of humor and an amazing athletic career. Definitely a female trend setter on many levels. (She was wearing the jacket because it was freezing in the windy NY Backlot of Raleigh Studios in Manhattan Beach. Heat lamps next year please!:)

And the next honoree...

Chris Marlowe aka "CI" who you might recognize if you happen to live in CO or enjoy basketball since he's the Denver Nuggets play-by-play announcer for the NBA. He's a talker!:)

and Steve Obradovich aka "OB." What made me laugh is that those who introduced him said, You either love him or you hate him, no in between. The first beach volleyball ball buster.:)

They all are so talented and amazing athletes. It was wonderful to hear their life stories and see the videos Fox created to showcase them visually. It was also fun to see Manhattan Beach over the years and know that I've watched the very same volleyball games from that very same beach that thousands of spectators have also over the years.  Prior to the event launching we enjoyed a little street art by Artist Andy Brown.
OB bought one of Artist Andy Brown's pieces Andy created during the evening which Chris "Geeter" McGee later auctioned  off.

Here Geeter's being teased by Chris Marlowe for shutting down the AVP's which Geeter also was able to joke about too (even though it must be hard to lose the job you love so much. He's so talented I'm sure he'll find something good again soon.)

Not only were these three amazing Olympic and other award-winning tournament volleyball athletes honored, there were also these amazing athlete pros in attendance (Sinjin Smith, Mike O'hara, Brent Frohoff, Gene Selznic, Larry Rundle, Barbra Fontana, Jim Menges (seen here in a clip from his risque acceptance speech at last year's event.)

Tim Hovland (I believe that's him in this pic) introducing one of the honorees with some pretty funny stories, Mike Dodd, the recent, now former, AVP Commissioner, and former professional volleyball player in his own right.  Mike Lambert and  Eric Fonoimoana shown here with his wife, Eliza Cost.

Before the main events began, guests wandered throughout the NY Backlot enjoying delicious local South Bay Cuisine and drinks.

 

   
Our first stop, Cupcakes Couture of Manhattan Beach.:)

Lisa Hemmat of Lido di Manhattan Beach served delicious appetizers too. You might recognize her from Chef Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares show this past Spring.

This bar and El Gringo's tacos were a big hit with many guests too.

Bob Meistrell Body Glove CEO was in attendance (seen below with Angelique Chacon), as were numerous media & residents. Caught up with The Easy Reader Publisher, Kevin Cody, enjoying a sample from Watermans Hermosa Beach.

Manhattan Beach City Council Members, Wayne Powell, Mayor Pro Tem, Richard Montgomery, & Mayor Mitch Ward enjoyed themselves too. 

Richard with last year's honoree, Jim Megnes.

 The biggest highlight of the pre-show was a really great fashion show. I can say that because I've covered numerous fashion shows for LA Fashion Week for the past few years.

High quality all the way. Just ask the guys.

I've never seen any fashion show have so many whistles blown, cat calls, and hooping and hollering males. It was hilarious! They calmed down a little once they realized the girls would just keep coming out looking gorgeous. LOL

Here's a sample of the models wearing Body Glove bikinis, Meghan Fabulous dresses & cover-ups, sexy heels by Michael Antonio and jewelry by Lost Bird. I believe there were a few other designers represented, but unfortunately don't have that information available. (If you know, leave a comment and I'll incorporate it later

Volleyball Player/DJ Jeff A. Murrell kept the night moving while Miss CA Nicole Johnson introduced the entire show.

My favorite designer of the evening was Meghan Fabulous and her latest designs. Aren't these beautiful dresses and cover-ups? I love her ethnic influences.

 
You can see more of the fashion show and pictures from the entire evening on Facebook at the 5th Annual Dinner of Champions Fan Page.

Eric officially welcomed everyone to the honoree part of the evening before turning it back over to Geeter who teased, hugged, and welcomed the honorees up after their video had shown all their athletic achievements (of which there were many!) Numerous athletes were invited to reminisce about the honorees too.

 

 
We were so cold by the end we ducked out while OB was talking which is why I don't have more pictures of his experience, but I'm sure it was great too! 

You can see more pictures of the fashion show Angelique took here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=201892&id=568603599

If you'd like to become a fan of this event to be kept in the loop for next year, click here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=29150&id=130203947005866

Designer Meghan Fabulous' designs are ethereal tonight #Dig4Kids

I love her beading and ethnic influences on the chiffon fabric with sashes and the best heels ever! Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Posted via email from joydacious's posterous

#Body Glove bikini clad models a huge hit #Dig4Kids

There are whistles on the table from one of the sponsors and the guys are blowing them when they see something, I mean a suit they like.

This is the wildest fashion show I've been to. The guys are cracking me up!

Some of the suits are cute too!:) Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Posted via email from joydacious's posterous

Check out what Beso offers today! A kiss of fashion, interior design & beauty for everyone.

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just found this fun shopping site called Beso with all kinds of beauty, home design and fashion for all my stylist, fashionista, metrosexual, & PR friends who enjoy shopping online, or are always looking for the latest thing.

This is especially great for all my celebrity friends and acquaintances who want to have the typical shopping experience without the fans. (Like I have personal celebrity friends with that high a profile, but it sounded good didn't it? LOL) That said, if you happen to have an annoying Hispanic who hovers around like I do occasionally, you can also shop unencumbered while comparing multiple stores all at once.

Love it!

Now, I'm not a big online shopper because I like to try things on first and often shop to get out of the house and AWAY from the computer. That said, I know a lot of people who love online shopping. And the way they talk about it makes me want to try it now.

Plus, now that I see there are home furnishings and bath products available too...:)

Here's a few online shopping tips based on my shopaholic friend's advice to me.

1. Make sure you check each company's return policy.

2. See how quickly they ship and compare shipping fees. Some offer free shipping and returns too.

3. See if there are any special discounts for shopping regularly. You may want to ask because sometimes these discounts are hard to find, but are offered.

4. Check out where your friends are shopping online and see if they're happy with the selection, price and customer service.

5. Keep checking on the item you like because there might be a sale if you wait long enough (and your size isn't common.)

6. Lastly, if you receive a credit on an item you've returned, keep track because the company may miss it in the future and you'll lose money if you're not staying on top of this.

Not to out anyone, but I know a friend who almost daily ordered from her favorite online company without a hitch until recently. She is a true fashionista and has spent hundreds of dollars feeding her passion. It didn't hurt she found a site where everything is extremely cute and also extremely inexpensive.

Well, this one time she ordered three pairs of shoes from there and only received two. The company balked at replacing the missing pair at first, but her persistence has paid off and she received the missing pair soon after. (This was not a Beso shopping site by the way.:)

Needless to say, now she'll be back to shopping there daily again now that she's a happy camper. She said out of the multiple orders she's placed this was the first time something like this had ever happened which is a good ratio.

Remember, the customer is always right and if they don't understand that, shop elsewhere.:)

That's the beauty of Beso. If you don't like one company, you can always find another that you do immediately. And the variety and price comparison is amazing. At least to me since I don't normally shop online.

Here's a sample of just some of the brands available through this site (note: there are men and women's fashions offered - I'm just selecting the images I happen to like and think my friends might like too.:):

• Alice + Olivia 
  

Marc Jacobs

James Perse 

Nine West

Steve Madden

Christian Louboutin

Diane von Furstenberg

C & C California

Dolce Vita

Kate Spade

Juicy Couture

Frye

Ralph Lauren

J Brand

Ben Sherman

William Sonoma

Bedroom Sets

 
Lamps

 

Kitchen

Jewelry and Watches.

Beauty products

Trust me, if you want it, it's here. I better get back to my other stuff now although this has been fun sharing my wish list with you. Do you think they sell the male models too? :) Everything has its price...

Check it out and let me know what you think. And to all my retailer friends like Klean Spa, they may consider showcasing your online store here if you have an interest, but I don't know for sure. It never hurts to look into though, right? Think of the exposure!:)

Happy Shopping!

#LA Fashion Week - Designer Kevan Hall topped 'em all! Rusnak Night of Luxury - Pt II

By Joy A. Kennelly

Finally have time and energy to continue sharing my experience at the Rusnak Night of Luxury event with Fashion Designer, Kevan Hall. I mean it when I say Kevan Hall topped 'em all during LA Fashion Week.

Here's the info I received from his publicist:

"A grand and opulent one-of-a-kind fashion show featuring the luxury collection of Spring 2010 evening and ready-to-wear by Renowned Designer Kevan Hall.
The setting: an 80 foot runway in the center of the grand plaza of Spartacus Square amidst the display and preview of the newest releases from luxury automakers Jaguar, Porsche and Rolls Royce! The Diamond Information Center provided beautiful diamonds to accompany all of Kevan Hall's looks. Hair by Alterna & Make-up by MAC.

2000 VIP Rusnak Guests attended this event hosted by Paul P Rusnak: Chairman & CEO Rusnak Auto Group His daughter, Liz Rusnak Arizmendi: Vice President Public Relations Rusnak Auto Group was the Event Creator & Director of Rusnak Reveals a Night Of Luxury At Universal Studios Backlot (she did an amazing job! And is so nice too. Here they both are sharing a moment with a guest.)

(Here Liz is wearing a Kevan Hall design. Stunning, eh?)

Children's Hospital Los Angeles received a $10,000 check from Rusnak Jaguar Pasadena and Jaguar North America as part of this special event for Rusnak's VIP clients."

Now do you see why I consider this such an amazing event? You can only imagine! You haven't even seen the fashion yet! What was interesting to me is that I'm sure many of these people have never been to a fashion show before and now have been permanently spoiled thinking that all fashion designers throw such over-the-top shows.

Only Kevan Hall baby. Only Kevan Hall.:)

After we all enjoyed the delicious buffets,
admired all the luxury vehicles on display throughout Universal Studios Backlot,
we began excitedly gathering around the runway for the grand finale - Kevan Hall's spring collection! Recognize this handsome man? He is John Salley. I met him in Corona Del Mar at an after-party of the horse races at La' Aberge a few months ago. He was nice enough to pretend he remembered me when I said hello.:)

Front row seat baby!

Everyone was really happy to be there - can you tell?:) Recognize our local news announcer Christine from FOX News at Ten? I can't remember her last name and can't find it online right now. She is very nice too. I had fun teasing these guys. I asked them if they were there for the cars or the fashion. They said in unison, "Both. You really can't have one without the other." (or words to that effect.) True dat!

This beautiful young girl is Kevan's daughter. Aren't they cute?    This handsome gentleman standing with Liz Rusnak - Arizmendi is A. John Vartanian, MD, one of the evening's many sponsors. Thank you for such a special evening everyone!  

Soon, the stage was set and we all sat there in eager anticipation for what we were sure was going to be an amazing event.

Thank you to Stefhan Gordon, my official Photographer of the night. Thank you too to my F/B friend, Vivien Killea, who provided close-up photographs from the evening by Photographer, Arun Nevader, who she was working with that night. Thanks everyone!

(When the pix are sharp and clear - it's my professional photographer friends.When the pix are photo journalistic in style- it's me! Sorry some of mine are a little hard to see - Santa, all I want for Christmas is a Rebel camera!)

Let me set the scene. We were all seated below the "stage" and it seemed like an endless stream of Kevan Hall's beautiful designs would never stop there were so many models coming one after another.

Now without further ado since you've all been so patient in no particular order...

 

 

 

Are these gowns stunning or what? Now for the professional shots to allow you to see the designs and gorgeous models up close and personal. First Arun's work, then Stefhan's because they have different perspectives.

  

If you can believe it, I still have more to share with you! However, I'm going to stop for now and continue with the rest of the evening in another blog to come.

Now do you see why it took so long to write about it? I'm still so happy I was there.:)

Passion Revealed - Alexis Monsanto & Furne One

By Joy A. Kennelly

Now that the Hermosa Beach City Council Candidates I was stumping for, Jeff Duclos and Howard Fishman, are safely in office I can get back to more fun topics seeing as I've left you dangling on LA Fashion Week long enough.:)

Finally, the long-awaited Passion Revealed review! And soon, the Kevan Hall review!

After Philip Rodriguez showcased his gorgeous stunning designs (here's some highlights of his work),  

we were introduced to the next designer, Alexis Monsanto. Now have to admit, I'm partial to beautiful gowns and evening wear and seeing a more casual resort line took a minute to adjust to.

However, once the realization was made that this was more of a resort collection I was easily able to appreciate Monsanto's designs as well. Very beautiful flowing cover-ups, sophisticated slip dresses, elegant pants with flirty, feminine blouses, bold accessories, and wild, over-the-top footwear were his signature style.

Here's some examples to give you an idea of what I'm talking about (a couple of these shots are mine from the runway, the rest are courtesy of my Photographer, Stefhan Gordon):

   
Now after we had seen this model (who drew gasps from the audience) we thought we had seen it all, but this was nothing compared to what was in store. Before we move on to the next designer, here's a video highlighting some of Monsanto's designs:

The next designer, Furne One, was so over-the-top, my stylist friend called his designs "tranny fierce" and we all had to agree. We also thought all his designs were like Disney on steroids, Halloween come early, or costumes for Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut movie - it was truly out-of-this-world.

The makeup, the hair, the "hats", the gowns, the fabric - crazy, over-the-top which is what you expect to see when you go to a fashion show. Now that I learn he's a Filipino Dubai-based designer catering to Arab high society, it all makes sense.

Click here for an article highlighting Heidi Klum's selection of Furne One to design all the gowns for the finalists of Germany's Next Top Model Competition which gives more background on his work.

His Passion Revealed fashion show included lots of tulle, sequins galore, roses, color and detailed work.

And now, without further ado, a visual feast! (Sorry, my photographer had to leave for another shoot, but hopefully you will grasp the show with my humble shots.:) Make sure to pay special attention to the headgear, and I do mean headgear - outrageous!)

  The designer, Furne One, in all his glory at the end. if you look closely you can see Project Runway's Nick Verreo applauding from the front row. Even the music was dramatic albeit a little repetitious.

Here's a little amateur video of the show:

Perfect way to end the evening - with a bang!

What I learned later is that the hostess of the evening was Miss Universe 1997 Brook Lee and there were lots of celebrities in attendance. I even warranted a mention in the publicist's press release as a fashion blogger. Fancy that.:)

Here's her write-up of who was seen in attendance that evening and the beneficiaries:

"Seen enjoying the event were Nick Verreos of MSN Lifestyle and Project Runway, Melissa Magsaysay of LA Times, Maria Quiban of Fox LA Morning News, Philippine Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo-Aragon, VuQo Premium Vodka’s Jose Panlilio and Raul Panelo, Former Miss Philippines Eva Reyes, Former Mutya ng Pilipinas Bong Dimayacyac, Laly Aldeguer of the famed Aldeguer Sisters, Atty. Claire Navarro- Espina, Loren Escano of M Lhuillier Financial Services, Zee Lifestyle Magazine Cebu Publisher-- Ms. Eva Gullas, Rupert Wainwright of Bravo’s Matchmaker Millionaire, The Young and the Restless star Sean Kanan; fashion bloggers Joy Kennelly, Brittan Salisbury and Everette Perry;  UCLA Basketball player Matt Lee, Rock and Republic’s Shane Upson, actress Gina La Piana who appeared in Everybody Hates Chris and Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, and Reichen Lehmkuhl of Amazing Race and Dante’s Cove. Noted media present were from California Apparel News, That Morning Show on E! and Metrosource.

Passion Revealed was not only used as a platform for the Filipino Fashion Designers to showcase their ingenuity, but more importantly, it also served as a vehicle to raise funds for the typhoon victims in the Philippines. Part of the proceeds from this event went to Gawad Kalinga in support of their relief operations efforts benefiting hundreds of victims of Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng."

It was definitely a special evening. I was very happy to have participated. I hope you enjoyed this stylish break from politics and wish you a most excellent day.:) 

LA Fashion Week - Designer, Philip Rodriguez in Passion Revealed @ Vibiana

By Joy A. Kennelly

Let's see, where we last left off we all were taking our seats for the Passion Revealed LA Fashion Week shows at the Vibiana if I remember correctly. Now I have to say, it was very hard to hear anything the announcer had to say and apologize if I don't mention everyone who was involved.

I'm mainly interested in the fashion, not the music, the dancers, the artists, etc, although it was very nice. That said, the evening was a delightful insight into the Philippine culture that I haven't ever been privy to before.

Makes me want to visit the Philippines now!

The first designer, Philip Rodriguez, really blew everyone away. It makes sense his background is in the family fabric business because each dress was unique in their fabric choice and exquisitely designed which made every woman (and some men!) want to wear everything that came down the runway. 

His work has so many special touches each evening gown was a stand-out - ruching, chiffon, layers, fathers, embroidery, fringe, ruffles, silk, jewels, beading, organza, and more. His designs are sheer elegance and sophistication.

It's no wonder Philip Rodriguez is known in Asia and internationally as the "Cebu's Fashion Czar". I'm positive his work will be seen on more Hollywood red carpets once the pictures from this evening are seen.

Here's some highlights courtesy of my photographer, Stefhan Gordon:
This particular outfit drew applause in approval it was so stunning in person. I want Philip to design an outfit for me!:) He's soooo talented!
 

 
And here's some of my shots from the first row - of course not as crystal clear and beautiful as Stefhan's, but squint a little - it helps.:)

Project Runway's Nick Verreos was in the front row too. You can read his coverage of the evening here.
  Also in attendance sitting next to me were Publicist, Eva Shanni, who I recognized from Smashbox days, and Stylist La Dauphine.

Here's some of closing shots from the show courtesy of Photographer David C. Lee:

Philip Rodriguez was absolutely my favorite evening wear designer of the night, but the rest of the evening was very entertaining and eye-popping too which I will cover in another blog soon. Thanks for reading.

Fashion Palooza w/Designers Cowgirl Heaven, Rochelle Carino, Leondra Renee & Lola Summers

By Joy A. Kennelly

I haven't covered LA Fashion Week for a few seasons which is why I was excited to check out this year's designs and designers.My first LA Fashion Week.com assignment was Fashion Palooza. In an unusual move, all the models came out to the red carpet area to pose with each of the four designers before the show. Lola Summers

  She is the mother of Designer, Houstina Summers of Cowgirl Heaven Fashions, and was absolutely thrilled to have her first fashion show.

Houstina Summers of Cowgirl Heaven Fashion: "My line of accessories and clothing are uniquely handmade design pieces that fulfill the need to find new meanings in every day objects and transform them into heavenly ones;"

Leondra Renee: "The Leondra Renee line provides cutting-edge fashions which brilliantly compliments your “girlish figure”. As a designer, she hopes her work will help highlight the beauty of all women at a price that is accessible to everyone." 

Rochelle Carino of RumpleMunkeh:

Photo Credit Ara Gougher

"With the irresistible mix of modern urban chic and the flowing, red carpet ready sophistication of gowns and dresses that could easily fit in the Golden Age of Hollywood, RumpleMunkeh is a unique fashion line hugely attractive to both retailers and consumers with an irresistibly cheeky and playful vibe;"

Music interludes from up-and-coming music acts Amanda & Travis Marsh entertained us prior to the shows starting.  and Destenee performed during an intermission. (We also received their music in our goody bags.)

Definitely a palooza of talent. Some, more than others, but that's par for the course. What I didn't like, my photographer/friend, Ara, loved. To each her own which is what makes fashion and music so fun.

Here's some highlights to give you an idea of the range of styles showcased courtesy of LookBookLA:

  If you look in the distance you can see me  sitting in the front row. I was given primo seats to enjoy all the clothes. Really makes a difference to sit close because then you can see how well they're sewn and the fabrics used.

Brocade, satin and chiffon was popular with lots of deep jewel colors.  There was also a heavy Asian influence. The star of the evening was the final designer, Houstina Summers of Cowgirl Heaven Fashions. 

When you attend a fashion show, the designers who surprise and entertain generally are the most well-received and Cowgirl Heaven was great! Towards the end of the show, three models at a time came out and performed choreographed dance moves which made the crowd go wild.

By the time all the models did their final parade all together, the entire crowd was on their feet cheering and clapping enthusiastically.

What I especially enjoyed about Fashion Palooza as a whole was the variety of models. Normally, you see one African American model in other designer's shows, but this evening was primarily African American models with a few European and Asian too. Loved the diversity!

Their skin tone was perfect for the rich, deep colors and multi-colored fabric of the clothing they were wearing too. It was definitely a unique experience. This whole event turned into a great evening and definitely set the bar high for any other fashion shows we will attend.

Once I have my videos prepared, I'll upload them.

My long, up and down, fun, sometimes sad, interesting day

By Joy A. Kennelly

Finally have to laugh at something Bill Maher said on his show just now. He apparently is showcasing countries where he suggests people should move to should McCain become President. Now that is stupid, but what made me laugh is when he said, go to India to visit your old job. So true!

Then he mocked Ghandi a little further into the segment and fortunately people agreed it was in poor taste and didn't laugh. Now he's mocking John McCain's war hero treatment comparing it to Tina Turner. I don't know about you, but that's poor taste.

But what do we expect? He's Bill Maher. Crass, sarcastic, full of himself, the biggest head on a body I've ever seen in person (even bigger than Dick Clark!), and blasphemous.

May he rot in hell.

Oops! Did I just say that?

Oh, ha ha. That's comedy.

Or is it? You tell me. It works for him and his show.

Why not at him?

I'm waiting for Entourage and was just curious about his show having never watched it before. Now that I have, I don't have to ever again. Is it always so one-sided? And they say Fox Channel is one-sided! Are comedians only liberal? Are things only funny when it's bashing things that you're against?

Just curious.

I love it. The Republican guest is countering Bill's determination that there needs to be more negative campaigning saying that's what caused the Democrats to lose in the past. Maybe he'll listen.

One can only hope.

Sometimes I feel like Hollywood is so high school where bullies are allowed free rein because those in power are so afraid of losing their jobs to counter something they personally disagree with they go with the flow even though they'd rather not.

Maybe that's why I like Entourage so much. Tells it like it is. For the most part. Gotta watch.

That was a good show. Nice way to end my day. Chris Rock is on now and is too funny. VERY crass, but too funny. Said Desperate Housewives should be renamed Ungrateful Bitches. Too funny.

Hit a non-profit organization's art event earlier today, but just couldn't get into the art exercise designed to relax all the participants and left early in tears from the last one when we were supposed to paint a place we felt safe.

Guess I don't feel safe anywhere right now. Hopefully that will change soon though. I think my safety is being out on the town. HA!

Probably won't be back to that organization actually. Too many memories I don't feel like remembering any more.

Time to move on. I need to ask the other non-profit who always invites me to their annual picnic to stop inviting me too. I'm over remembering that experience too.

Mooooving on. Moooooving on.

What was funny driving there was the van full of young boys who kept trying to get my attention at the stop light. Cougar power. Hellooooo.

Made me a little uncomfortable when I realized they looked like they were 14. Reminded me of the hilarious young boys in Sex Drive which I just saw last night. If you can get past the crassness, it's actually really funny and has a good ending considering it's crassness.

Totally predictable, but sometimes predictable is good. Felt good to just laugh. I think I have a very sick sense of humor for a Christian. Sorry. Can't help it.

That's where I first heard Fall Out Boy's song, I Don't Care. Still lovin' it. Click on the link for the video. When it comes on in your car scream along to it and you'll experience what it's like in my car when I hear it. I. Don't. CARE!

Totally the way I'm feeling. Never quite understood why people like rock music like AC/DC and today for some reason, I love it. There's something primal about screaming along with the music that releases tension I guess. Highway to Hell - especially when you start thinking that's where you're driving.

Laughing is helping though. I love Chris Rock because he totally just tells it like it is. Especially about sex. HILARIOUS! Did I say that? He is not funny at all. I don't know anything about what he's telling.

Or do I?

I enjoyed watching Fashion Designer Joy Han's Voom Fashion Show earlier tonight Downtown. I loved the title "Conservatively Liberal", the girls picketing for Joy Han for President, and the election pins that were passed out. I also liked the fashion - bright colors, lots of designs related to the 60's and 70's.

Once I upload all the pix I'll share them with you. I have some from the UCLA wine & cheese tasting too.

I visited the Santa Monica Arts Studio Open House after the fashion show. I took some pix of my new potential artist client's work and met her in person for the first time. Love her work.

Also saw a few people I know. Some I don't want to know any more, but that's par for the course as I roll. Oh well.

Mooooving on. Moooving on.

Now I'm going to mooooveeee on to bed. Want to watch Joe the Plumber on Huckabee's show. Go Joe!

Oh, and because I can't leave you without at least one Obama thing, here's a video I received tonight that I found very interesting. It's a letter written to the editor by a Cuban American who lived under Fidel Castro.

Interesting comparison. Take it or leave it.

I'm tired. Maybe I'll think differently when I wake up tomorrow.

Interesting, Huckabee has two people on who registered to vote 100 times each with ACORN. People who claim ACORN is innocent are crazy!

Now I'm going to bed. Enough already.

I DON'T CARE!

Happy Mother's Day! Made of Honor and more Hermosa pix for your viewing pleasure

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just watched Made of Honor which actually had some surprises not revealed in the trailer which was a nice change of pace. The scenery in Scotland is stunning, Patrick Dempsey is adorable, and it's every woman's fantasy to have someone sweep her off her feet like her Scottish hero did. I won't ruin the ending, but I really enjoyed the flick. Two bouquets!

I'm actually doing ok this Mother's Day and was only teary once which is great. I love my friend Shana because she's so nurturing and knows exactly what to say to help me feel better about my open adoption. I am so glad we're friends.

Enough of that though, I feel like sharing more pix of Hermosa Beach. We really have a great fashion collection of stores that I didn't acknowledge before and I admit that was wrong of me. Pier Ave is littered with all kinds of cute, eclectic shops filled with unique clothes, surf related items and boards, tourist gifts and t-shirts and other stuff.

Some of them kind of crack me up because it looks like they've been around forever and are from a completely different hippy era - like the Birkenstock store, Greeko's Sandals, the hippie dress store, and the store with the gone surfing sign in the window.

Only in Hermosa Beach...:)

Here's some pix of a few to let you see what I mean. I've mixed in a few from other categories that I missed before too. Buy Mylar balloons from Hermosa Celebrations because if the Government has its way they're going to put an end to them according to Sandy, the store owner. She has great balloon bouquets and really cares about her customers.

I've changed my mind about free copying of my pix. Please don't. I have spent hours shooting, editing and uploading them and would prefer you pay for the privilege of using them if you're interested. Thanks.

Enjoy!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Pix from GenArt, Fashion Week, Cambria & Big Sur - Finally!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Finally uploaded all my pix and have them ready to be seen. Just know, this is a new camera, I haven't read the owner's manual and as a result, some of the pix aren't the best quality, but others are wonderful (if I d say so myself. LOL) Enjoy my picture diary!

Okay, here's a bad one, but at least now you know what I meant by the stationary fashion show at GenArt's recent event. I had taken a bunch of other pics, but ended up deleting them to accommodate my scenery shots up north.

This girl totally reminded me of Kate Bosworth, doesn't she? These was real rain droplets and I thought it was such a clever display.

One of my good friends, Lana, and her brother, Erwin I believe, joined us at the GenArt event which was a lot of fun. I always have a great time with both of them!

 
My good friends, Lana and Melinda, joined me at the GenArt event. Oy vey! I look so pregnant and I'm so not, but boy do I feel comfortable wearing this top. Got to buy a belt.

Lana has some crazy pants just like me. Now my pants have someone to go out with on the town! LOL

Here's one of the shows I caught during LA Fashion Week by Joseph Domingo. I always love to see what the hair stylists will create to go with the clothes as much as I enjoy the fashion.

Is this wild hair or what? This is what the runway looks like at the end. This show had some really pretty dresses with unusual adornments and piping which I liked.

Sorry, had more, but again, deleted them to find space for my vacation pix since I forgot to buy a larger memory card. My bad!

This was the first place I walked to in Cambria because it sounded so unusual... Nitt Witt Ridge. Don't you agree? Of course, it didn't open till 10am and I was there much earlier. Next time I'll take a tour.

This trip, it was Hearst Castle tours instead.

This is the view from the top of Hearst Castle. Again, wish I had a telephoto lens, but I think you grasp a little of the splendor of the view right?

This is one of the side entrances to the castle. Can you believe it? How grand!

This is the first pool you come to and it's called Neptune's Pool. Once a year all the staff get to enjoy a huge pool party where they can invite their friends up to enjoy spending time with them.

A lot of the surrounding statues were especially created for Mr. Hearst and shipped in from Italy and all over the world. See the man standing in the top? Apparently, when this statue arrived it was too big so they chopped off his feet to fit it inside that area! Isn't that funny.

Also, if I'm remembering correctly, Mr. Getty copied a lot of what Mr. Hearst did with his smaller museum over in Malibu. Oh, those rich people. Always trying to keep up with one another.:)

Wouldn't you just love to swim here? Absolutely stunning.

Here's another shot of the same pool, but looking back up towards the castle itself. So regal, I just loved it! The stark white of the statues contrasts so beautifully with the clear water and blue tiles of the pool.

This is just one of the many gardens Mr. Hearst had planted. The building you see behind was one of the guest houses he built for guests that weren't invited to stay in the "big house," but enjoyed a beautiful setting nonetheless.

What I found fascinating is that every plant and trees were brought into this area and weren't here normally. What an undertaking and how beautiful now.

This the main Hearst Castle entrance. I thought my shot of this was unique, but as I look up the information, it's so not. Oh well, I tried.:)

It's nice though, right?

Here's another one straight on...

Isn't the color of the sky incredible? I did not digitally enhance it either. Just naturally beautiful. The balcony is where Mr. Hearst would watch his guests having fun. What I thought was so funny is that he was really against unmarried couples shacking up together, but personally kept a mistress for 34 years.

Her name was Marion Davies and they had adjoining rooms on the third floor where no one else was allowed to enter. I enjoyed my Tour #2 because then we toured that area also. Lots of small, winding staircases with small rooms and lots of beautiful furnishings.

Click here for some of the amazing statistics and an overview of the entire Castle property.

Here's some examples of the furnishings and his extensive art collection. Sorry this one is blurry, but you weren't allowed to use a flash. The ceilings and wall coverings were over the top too!

Isn't this just so delicate and feminine? If I could have taken t with me, I would have.:) I love pink.

This is the master dining room where everyone ate together. Again, sorry it's so blurry. According to our fast talking gay tour guide (why do they love this job so much? Just kidding. It's a gay man's dream! LOL), the longer that you stayed at Hearst Castle, the farther you would be seated away from Mr. Hearst who sat in the middle across from Marion.

One of the famous old time stars, either Carey Grant or someone else who I've forgotten, said if he was sat any further away he'd be sitting outside! One of those stars was invited back 40 times. Others were never invited back.

Oh, another interesting character twist of Mr. Hearst is that he hated his guests to get drunk. Sound familiar? HA!

He would lock up the liquor cabinet until the evening to make sure he kept things under control. Isn't that funny? I bet some  old time alcoholics weren't too happy about having their booze controlled once they realized they'd have to wait to imbibe. LOL Maybe some began packing their own just in case...:)

Tour number 1 takes you to Mr. Hearst's huge private theatre. Just like one of the grand theatres you would see Downtown LA today. Very ornate and gaudy.

This statue is one of many that graced the walls to help with acoustics I believe. We were able to enjoy home movies playing on the big screen in this room.

Mr. Hearst, because he owned so many newspapers, was always receiving films ahead of the general public and began throwing his lavish parties to entice people to drive the four hours up from LA to sit and review them with him.

Oftentimes many of the actors, actresses, directors and writers of the films were included. There was a whole mezzanine floor with shared bedrooms set up just for starlets to stay in so the gentlemen would have pleasant female  company while visiting. What that life must have been like back then. Can you imagine?

Actress Katherine Hepburn has been quoted as saying her one regret is that she didn't take up Mr. Hearst's offer to come visit his "little ranch." Now do you see why?

Both tours I took ended up in this amazing Roman style inside covered pool room. Now according to my outspoken first tour guide, oftentimes midnight love trysts occurred in the steam room. A note slipped into a pocket, a furtive glance and the next thing you know...

The bottom of the pool, although flat, creates an optical illusion and looks curved when you look straight into it. Just directly above the lamp in the foreground is a ledge where people could dive into the 10 foot deep part of the pool.

What I loved about the National Geographic movie, Hearst Castle Building the Dream which is part of Tour 1 is that it follows one starlets experience staying there and you see the place come alive with action.

You also follow little Hearst as he travels with his mother when he's only 10 years old all over Europe where art first captures his heart. Apparently, he wanted his Dad to buy the Louvre after visiting France. His mother had a great deal of influence over him and when his father died, he left his entire estate to his wife since he knew young William would squander his fortune.

Thus, when William wanted to buy something, he would have to ask his mother's permission and she would use that opportunity to make him stop dating some undesirable woman, or give up something in exchange.

Some tour guides surmise that Marion Davies played a mother figure to him. She was an amazing lady all on her own - Actress, Real Estate Investor etc etc! What I loved learning about William Randolph Hearst is that he loved and appreciated strong, career-minded females.

His architect who worked with him almost day and night to build his vision, was a female residential architect named Julia Morgan. She was also another extraordinary woman of that time and in addition to creating Hearst Castle, created and oversaw over 800 other projects in California and Hawaii. She worked nearly 28 years on Hearst Castle and numerous other residences for both Mr. Hearst and Ms. Davies.

A very humble Victorian woman, she requested all her private papers be burned upon her death, but fortunately for us, her relative refused and that's why we know what we know today. Click on her name if you want to learn more about her. Quite an extraordinary woman.

Here's a picture of the small studio she used when she would come to stay and oversee the project. Isn't this amazing? Such a small location for such a grand scale project, but I guess she was out in the field for a large part of this.

Notice the old timey phone too on the desk.

This is the back courtyard where she would cross to go to her "office." The backside of Hearst Castle isn't as finished as the front and the tape on the tour bus taking you back down to the bottom of the hill lets you know that if you'd like to donate you can donate to the Friends of Hearst Castle foundation.

They host some amazing special events at the Castle and if you want to enjoy some with other philanthropic minded individuals, click here for more details. Really sounds like fun. I wouldn't mind going to a few myself? Anyone care to join me?

 

There is only one kitchen in the entire Castle and this is it. I took these pix for my chef friends.:) I can only imagine how many people were responsible to make the wonderful meals for all the guests and workers who came to the hill.

Isn't the attention to detail adorable?

This is the pantry. I ended up touring with a family of five on this tour because I mistakenly joined them and when I figured out I was in the wrong place it was too late. They were nice about it and it was great to have the entire castle to ourselves while touring, rather than the huge group I would have been with otherwise.

You can take private tours for about $600 if I remember correctly and you're allowed to invite up to six guests with you which is actually fairly reasonable since it covers the entire castle tours on a private basis.

Click here for information on all the tours available.

I can't remember which room this is (they all blur together after awhile, but maybe it's the library. I think that's right.) William was kicked out of Harvard is one of the stories told.

This is the "Gold Room" where the infamous gossip columnist, Hedda Hopper, used to stay as a guest. It's up in the top spier of the castle (is that what the towers are called? Well, that's what I'm trying to say.) and is very small, but really pretty with the sun shining through.

Click here for a list of some of the other important people who stayed here.

This is an example of the ornate ceilings Hearst was fond of. This is also the chandelier that hangs in the Gold Room. Everything is so ornate and gaudy and so of the time, I just loved it. Not to my taste for my own personal space, but definitely something admirable in this setting.

Tour 2 ends in the same pool house just from a different viewpoint. Click here for some Behind the Scenes info on the beautiful details involved in this room and all the others.

Now do you see why this was so refreshing and just what I needed? I love art and visionary men. When the two come together... It's a beautiful thing.

The other fun thing to do while visiting Cambria and Hearst Castle is to check out all the Elephant Seals that love to laze around in the sun along the coastline. It's just a few miles past Hearst Castle and the turn-off is clearly marked. There are walking trails to allow you to walk and view closer.

There are hundreds of seals like this and they make the funniest sounds. They also seem to do the Michael Jackson moon walk as they push themselves across the sand to get back into the water.

Certain areas were quite stinky perhaps from a dead one, but otherwise, it's very pleasant although when I was there it was bitter cold and windy. These next few shots are blurry because it was too cold to stand and get a good shot!

Isn't it rugged? Just love the different seascapes Northern CA offers.

This could be further up, or in Cambria, I don't remember.

The next day I drove up to Big Sur. I had been told it was only 25 miles away, but it was actually more like 100. However, it was well worth the drive.

Stunning vistas like this all up and down the Northern coast. You really must see it for yourself because I'm not doing this half the justice.

 

This is my final shot heading home from Big Sur and thus ends our tour. I hope you've enjoyed your visit and make plans to come back and see me again real soon.

We'll leave a light on for you...:)

Have I convinced you now to make the trip? I'll even go back up with you! Only this time I might suggest staying at the Cambria Pines Lodge based on the referral of another friend, Jaimi Blakely who just hosted a writer's retreat there.

According to Jaimi, Cambria Pines Lodge has "24 acresthat you can hike and a free drink at their bar and a free breakfast buffet every morning. There's an organic garden on the property where they grow a lot of their own produce.

When you call Cambria Pines Lodge, say that you want their current special.Usually, the specials are from $69-$89 depending on the season. (Such a deal!) Also, if you register to receive the weekly email from TravelZoo.com, then you will see frequent specials listed that are in that area (from San Luis Obispo to Monterey).

"Jaimi" loves Black Cat Bistro and Robin's for dinner and Indigo Moon for lunch or a casual dinner. "She" heard that the Thai place is great, too, but hasn't been yet."

Okay, that's really all. Cambria isn't that big so you can find the perfect place for you just by walking through the town once. I did it in 30 minutes or so from where I was staying. It's that small. Totally reminds me of what Hermosa Beach was like so long, long, long ago...:) I'm not that old, but I can imagine.

Enjoy your Sunday. I need to get outside now.

I just received the wrap up release of LA Fashion Week - enjoy!

I've been so busy I haven't had a chance to write reviews of the shows I saw. Just know they were very interesting, but didn't blow my mind like I always feel when I watch Kevan Hall. However, I did like the shows I saw very much, but the clothes were just more daytime than evening which I was expecting at one. Oh well, I'm not the fashion icon you thought I was! JUST KIDDING! I NEED A STYLIST! In any case, here's some fun info on the show as a whole sent out by the publicist for the official Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Enjoy! JOY   MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK AT SMASHBOX STUDIOS PRESENTED ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL SEASON POST EVENT RECAP   Los Angeles, Calif. (March 18, 2008) – Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios wrapped up its Fall 08 season which showcased a lineup of emerging, veteran and International designers. Industry guests, retailers, media, celebrities, sponsors and fashionistas came out in force to celebrate one of Los Angeles most glamorous industries.   The schedule of designers included IMASU by Kelly Nishimoto, Orthodox, Julia Clancey, Whitley Kros, Alexis Lamontagna, Octavio Carlin, Joseph Domingo, Suh-Tahn, Veronika Jeanvie, Falguni & Shane Peacock, Bow & Arrow by Alan Del Rosario, Lauren Conrad Collection, Maggie Barry for Xubáz, Nicholai, The Green Initiative Humanitarian Fashion Show, Jenny Han, Elmer Ave, Samora, Farah Angsana, Monarchy Collection, Ashley Paige and Pussycat Dolls by Robin Antin.   Front row at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios included editors from all the leading fashion publications from André Leon Talley and Lisa Love of Vogue to Michael Roberts fashion and style director for Vanity Fair as well as representatives from ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, InStyle, Paper Magazine, People, Us Weekly and many others.   Alongside the leading press, media and retailers, the seats were filled by Kirstie Alley, Gene Simmons and the Simmons Family, P. Diddy, Dr. Dre, Nelly, Taye Diggs, Jenna Bush, Lisa Rinna, Juliette Lewis, Jason Lee, Amy Smart, Mena Suvari, Seann William Scott, Quincy Jones, Bow Wow, Paris Hilton, Beck, Giovanni Ribisi, Whitney Port, Brody Jenner, Danny Masterson, Benji Madden, Sophie Monk, Bijou Phillips, Brandon Davis, Matt Dillon, Kristin Cavallari, Girlicious, Angie Harmon, Andrew Keegan, among others.   This season, the event’s graphics were reminiscent of the  Hollywood studios and theirglamour. Inside the tents, the runways heralded many first time shows and US launches for Julia Clancey, Suh-Than - (this was the show I saw. Very creative styling with jersey. Their rise is very impressive seeing as they started as t-shirt designers!) Veronika Jeanvie, Falguni & Shane Peacock- (this was the other show I saw which reminded me a lot of Meghan Fabulous' line a few seasons back. I really liked their clothes and when the designers walked out, I realized why. The female designer was curvy and as a result cut her clothes to fit my body style rather than the sticks normally walking the runways..) Bow & Arrow by Alan Del Rosario, Lauren Conrad Collection,Farah Angsana, Orthodox and The Pussycat Dolls by Robin Antin.   Supporting industry causes, People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals (PETA) kicked off the week with a special unveiling of its ad featuring their newest spokesperson Jenna Jameson.  Wearing a black wig and a pleather bikini, Jameson evokes screen siren Bettie Page in a SINthetic new PETA campaign called "Pleather Yourself: Discover the Pleasure of Pleather."   The week concluded with Robin Antin's Pussycat Dolls lingerie collection and a live performance by the real Pussycat Dolls. The highly anticipated event was filled with sexy and sophisticated looks, including micro-minis with corset lacing, graffiti-covered bra-and-panty sets, ruffles, ribbons and sailor-themed sets. Ashley Roberts, Jessica Sutta, Kimberly Wyatt, Melody Thornton and Nicole Scherzinger then rocked the runway by performing Doll favorites such as Loosen Up My Buttons, Don’t Cha, Stick Wit You, Beep and many more!   Title sponsor Mercedes-Benz was joined by Smashbox Cosmetics, American Express, DHL, LYCRA®, Judith Ripka, YKK, The Hollywood Roosevelt, Valadon Hotel, Gilt Groupe, Panera Bread, CITRUS at Social, Peroni, Imperia Vodka, BAWLS Guarana, Rose’s Cocktail Infusions, smartwater, Los Angeles Times IMAGE, California Apparel News, Full Frontal Fashion, ULTRA HD, 944 Magazine and Getty Images. Each of these sponsors and partners provided hospitality, services and amenities that made the exciting week of shows as effortless and pleasurable as possible for all attendees.

Gen Art Fashion Event the other night

By Joy A. Kennelly

It's really funny what happens when you step away from something for a bit and then come back to it. It changes your perspective and you can never go back to what it was like before. That's what visiting LA Fashion Week events has been like for me this go round.

Although I've complained about the work involved making sure your budding or established celebrity receives the publicity they come to these events for, it actually gives my being there a purpose which was lacking this time. Plus, I enjoy their company which makes it fun too.

I'm not hired by any fashion mags to write coverage and mainly go just to tap into my feminine side since running your own business you operate in your masculine side so much. No, I am not gay. Just telling it like it is.

When you're dealing with men in business you can't help but pick up some of their tendencies. However, that doesn't mean you're any less of a female. It's just tough when you face chauvinism in the work world and it can make you a little hardened to allowing people to know your vulnerabilities and be as open as you normally would.

When I go to LA Fashion Week Shows, it's the one time where I can just let my guard down and be a woman and ooh and aah at what makes me happy to think about wearing. It also is very social and a place to enjoy a totally different crowd of people than I normally hang out with. I love it. It's stimulating visually and mentally.

The other night at Gen Art was no exception. Very eclectic, young hipster type crowd. A very cool Downtownish venue of a hotel turned nightclub. The interior was so glamorous and rather goth almost. I'd been there in the past for a rave a long time ago and it was fun to be there again.

As always, free drinks were flowing and I opted to try the new flavored saki, but soon wished I hadn't since my acid reflux acted up. I just can't drink any more. Have to face that fact and move on. It was delicious though and if you like saki, try it! The bottle is absolutely adorable.

There was a live staged fashion show in the lower area with interesting black and white geometric style fashions - very '80's which was entertaining. I always love seeing what the hairdressers will do since it's their job to make everything fit together.

After a bit we wandered upstairs and were treated to two more staged fashion environments. We were all expecting a runway show similar to years past, but this was cool in it's own way. Very stylistic, staged sets where women just posed as live mannequins almost. On stage there was a round lazy Susan type circular moving  mirrored platform with huge mirrored pillars that the models just stepped on and took a ride around the circle.

A little bizarre since there was no movement other than the revolving platform, but cool. Unfortunately, the clothes were hard to see as they came up close because the lighting didn't highlight the clothes enough. However, it was interesting to watch. For a bit.

We decided to leave early to avoid the valet crunch and were glad we did. We ended up cutting off our car at the corner and quickly maneuvered our way out of the long line of cars to freedom! It had been a long week so we all said adieu and went our separate ways soon after. I always enjoy hanging out with these people and loved the scene.

Gotta run. More Fashion Week later. I'll have to upload pix too!

Here's a great fashion challenge for teens! Go for it!

Here's an example of a friend's press release in case you were wondering what one looks like. Great event and I hope if you're the right age you go for it!

(The blank spot was a picture, but I'm too tired to figure out where it went or how to delete it so bear with me ok? Or bare with me as people so often misspell this word!)

Notice the format - title, subtitle, location, date, lead paragraph, body paragraph, quote and boiler plate paragraphs on each company. I can explain more later, but just wanted to get this out because I promised my friend I would. Plus, I told you I'd share how to write a press release. More details later, but look at this as an example for now. I cut off the contact info because I don't like to distribute that via blogs because weird people sometimes come by and may spam people's email info.

Enjoy the read!
JOY

Tommy Hilfiger and BKFK Launch the "Signature Style Challenge" with $10,000 Grand Prize

Did you know that Stella McCartney, Tommy Hilfiger, Hillary Duff, Zac Posen and Jean Paul Gaultier all achieved success in the fashion world before the age of 18?

STAMFORD, CT - October 19, 2007 - By Kids For Kids (BKFK) and Tommy Hilfiger today announced the "Signature Style Challenge," designed to uncover America's future fashionistas and teenage style gurus. With an unprecedented $10,000 Grand Prize, the "Signature Style Challenge" will inspire scores of creative teens to try their hand at fashion design, and focus a powerful spotlight on emerging design talent. The new Idea Locker™ at BKFK.com will support the design process, and provide a valuable opportunity for networking and style critique.

The Signature Style Challenge seeks original designs in the areas of apparel, accessories, footwear, hair/make up, jewelry, handbags, totes, scarves, belts, etc. All youth 19 and under are eligible to participate. In addition to the $10,000 Grand Prize, the winner will receive a "Connection to Reality," which is the opportunity to spend a day shadowing a designer from Tommy Hilfiger in their Manhattan studio. All entries must be received by December 31st at BKFK's newly revamped website, www.bkfk.com.

"The world of fashion is competitive, exciting and glamorous - and anyone with original ideas can break into this world," commented BKFK Founder and CEO Norman Goldstein, "We are excited to join forces with Tommy Hilfiger to uncover teen design talent- and look forward creating opportunities for aspiring creative designers to achieve success in the real world."

Besides the Signature Style Challenge, BKFK also just launched 3 other exciting competitions. . The Digital Arts Challenge seeks digital storytellers, The Sports Evolution Challenge seeks new ideas for fitness and sporting goods, and the Going Green Challenge seeks eco-friendly product ideas to help the environment. BKFK will launch four invention competitions each quarter- with a total of $160,000 in prize money. Further information on all competitions can be found on BKFK.com.

About "Idea Locker™

"The Idea Locker™, powered by BKFK, is a private online space where teens can create, develop, store and share their ideas. Partially adopting the social networking style now familiar to the target age group, users will be able to add friends, chat, share ideas and provide ratings and feedback on ideas that others have decided to share through their "Idea Locker™."

The "Idea Locker™ " also supports The Signature Style Challenge by providing a digital model entrants can dress and send down a virtual runway.

This secure personal locker can hold as many ideas as the user can dream up. The Idea Locker™ also includes a mechanism for uploading files such as text, images, audio and video.

BKFK has refined its process over years of experience to accept ideas online in a safe and secure manner. The new Idea Locker™ employs a number of tactics to educate the users about Intellectual Property and protecting their rights while developing their innovations. Minors who wish to share their ideas must receive parental approval to do so. The Idea Locker™ then allows teens to adjust the levels of privacy on ideas in their locker to private, semi-private or public.

About By Kids For Kids Co.

By Kids For Kids Co., "BKFK" is a closely held corporation based in Stamford, Conn., is the leading global marketing, branding and licensing company dedicated to making teens' ideas a reality. Having produced numerous successful invention competitions, BKFK is finely attuned to what teens want. Their mission is to inspire, motivate and stimulate the innovative spirit within all young people. In addition to providing free support and educational resources to the world's youth, BKFK provides entrepreneurial experiences for young inventors and supports the entire ideation through commercialization process. Learn more: www.bkfk.com

Fun art event tonight - care to join me & my friends?

 (This is posting crazy, but I have to run to church so just read it and realize it looked better on the email ok?)

You are invited to the exclusive Saints & Sinners art show at

Cush Salon, featuring the artwork of Hector Rodriguez.

Mingle with LA's elite artists, stylists, and fashionistas and enjoy light refreshments.

 When: Sunday, October 7^th at 7 p.m.

Where: Cush Salon 171 S. Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA

310 360-7963

About Hector and his artwork:

Hairstylist, entrepreneur, artist. This self-taught painter finds his inspiration by fusing his love of pop culture with his Mexican heritage. He creates new dimensions through digital manipulation, layering of images and colours. No longer limited by humanity and hairstyling as his canvas, Hector is free to express his unique view of the world as he sees it, manifesting in the pop-surrealistic images that he creates.

Hector has joined forces with silversmith ENZO (Hector Fernandez) of Made In Moon to create jewelry inspired by his art.

About Cush Salon:

Located on posh Robertson Blvd. in Beverly Hills, Cush Salon is devoted to quality customer service and a sleek, elegant setting (complete with a cafe) for luxurious hair treatments by their staff of expert stylists.  Experience warm, friendly service and beautiful results.

Guests may bid on silent auction goods from Kerastase and more! Live art models inspired by Hector's designs will also be on display. Cush-invited makeup artist Veronica Lane to add her expert creativity to the mix. Spoken word by Poetry Vizion. Musician Dino Saldo will perform and DJ D Nastee will be spinning tunes throughout the event.

Proceeds from the silent auction will go to our sponsor SmileTrain, a charity devoted to providing surgery for children in need.

Kerastase gift bags will also be given out to the first 50 guests to RSVP.

This event brought to you courtesy of my good friend and colleague - Adrienne Dorsey of Magnolia PR.

Simpson's Movie, Fritelli's Donuts, Gali Rotstein, The Counter restaurant, Paige Premium Denim

By Joy A. Kennelly

The Simpson's Movie cel art party was so cute. Here's a pic of me with the characters. I wanted to take
them home with me they were so cute. I love animation. I used to market the World Animation Celebration that 50,000 people would attend. As a result, I knew all the coolest animation and animators. Amazing talent in that field.

This party was in celebration of the upcoming Simpson's Movie and the walls were filled with cel art from the TV show, Family Guy, and other famous animation from all eras. They served Fritelli's Gourmet Donuts which were quite yummy. I didn't try a Flamin' Moe martini, but those looked good too. There was a lady giving make-up tattoos that the kids just loved. Joe Montagna, Fred Willard and Tom Arnold were some of the celebrities in attendance.

My client, Artist Gali Rotstein, came, as well as, Interior Designer, Leslie Sachs and Graphic Designer, Cynthia Combs. Gali showed me the completed press kits and they're just stunning. It's really amazing what a difference good design makes. I LOVE IT! Now to get the approval or whatever I need to start pitching her.

I was rather bummed that I was too late to benefit from my EPPS mixer so to comfort myself went to The Counter restaurant by myself. A friend had taken me there before, but we had arrived when they were closing so I wasn't able to experience it then. Just reading the review on the place - no wonder it's so crowded! Oprah AND GQ Magazine say they're the best burgers! GQ even went so far as to call it one of "The 20 Hamburgers You Must Eat Before You Die."

I wasn't terribly hungry having tried a donut earlier and skipped ordering the "Build Your Own Burger" which they're known for. I sat at the counter and was joined by a very interesting South African Graphic Designer who works for Paige Premium Denim. We had a great chat and when his burger came it was definitely a concoction all his own! No wonder the place was packed with men. What a great burger joint!

My veggie burger paled in comparison, but it was delicious nonetheless. It was fun to go out for dinner alone and have a nice conversation with someone unexpected. Just what I needed to get me out of my funk for missing my mixer.

Oh well, I've decided to start a professional networking mixer for PR/marketing/design/event people since we all collaborate anyway. Should be interesting to see who attends. Looking forward to it. Last night's MB Chamber Mixer was interesting. Bumped into my sister's childhood friend there and promptly re-connected them via the phone which was fun.

Schmoozed around with my new designer friend, Gary Evans of Tiburon Design, who is extremely talented. We met at the Torrance Chamber lunch. He's one of the people I'm considering starting this mixer with. Also some of my Beach Writer friends too. It's time all of different disciplines had a mixer to support each other as a whole!

So, that's all for now. We'll see what tomorrow brings! Have a good one!

Crown Jewel Club, Shade Hotel, The Party Goddess, Gali Rotstein and Age of Love

By Joy A. Kennelly

Where to begin? Spent lunch with the Crown Jewel Club Girls over at Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach as a fund-raiser for this delightful organization. Here's the mission statement from their Web site:

"Crown Jewel Club is dedicated to giving at-risk, inner-city girls the opportunity to learn basic disciplines in the areas of basic manners, grooming, table etiquette, and how to conduct themselves in social settings.

The goal is to provide a positive environment that fosters improved self-esteem, self-confidence, respect for themselves and others, self-awareness, self-nurturing, the value of giving, perseverance, and the importance of education, family and friendships."

Just a wonderful organization with wonderful success stories, it brought tears to my eyes to hear the children tell NBC weatherman, Fritz Coleman, and NBC Co-Anchor, Colleen Williams, (who both co-hosted the luncheon) how "Mrs. Phillips" has changed their lives.

Mrs. Phillips is the founder of this two-year old organization which has radically changed the lives of the girls who have gone through the training. I spoke to the school counselor afterwards and she said that she's been at that school for 10 years and there were always fights and disagreements among the girls in the Spring. Now, since the program has been in place, that behavior has stopped. Also, this group helped one little girl choose not to join a gang when asked to. Man...

My two little favorite girls when asked about themselves responded - "I love sushi and Mrs. Phillips." The 2nd little girl said, "I love Mrs. Phillips. She's taught me how not to be so ghetto." How cute is that? Each little girl was wearing the cutest bonnet too. Check out the Web site for pictures and more details.

There were also some real amazing little girls who wanted to be doctors, fashion designers, investigators, and one little girl who seemed destined for politics telling us how she wanted to uncover domestic violence or something like that. This from girls ages 9-11 years old living in South Central!

Shade Hotel was a really beautiful venue for this event too. They closed down the bar area and the outdoor patio for the luncheon. Free organic manicures were offered by Green Bliss Eco Spa, a traveling spa, at one end. Delicious tea sandwiches, Caesar salad, fresh fruit and petit fours were elegantly displayed and prepared by Marley Majcher of The Party Goddess.

Five years ago when I was in the catering business (has anyone ever avoided it completely?) I worked for her company and actually ended up serving at her wedding. She is such a fun party girl. Half the room was formal china, silver, chandeliers to represent her husband, and the other half of the room was this wild animal print chairs, brightly colored plates, cups, etc (at least that's what I remember. I also remember serving jello shots a lot too - that was one fun party for those wedding guests!)

She's extremely creative, very smart business woman. I highly recommend her company to you. You can tell her I referred you as we re-acquainted ourselves at the event. She remembered me too which was fun. She produced this event and it was top notch all the way. The goody bags are wonderful with so many sponsored gifts I can't go into them all here. Just know they are spectacular and most enjoyable.

The one funny moment of the day was seeing the former Mayor of Manhattan Beach, Steve A. Napolitano, there and mistaking him for someone who worked for the hotel because of his 60's style brown shirt and matching brown pants that looked like it could be a uniform if you glanced at him quickly. I couldn't figure out why he was walking out to join all the ladies until he was acknowledged from the stage as who he was! My bad.

I had seen him at the other women's conference event I went to and couldn't figure out why a young, handsome guy like himself would attend an obviously all-female event (Okay, not really, but why did he keep showing up though?), but when it was mentioned that he was part of some other governmental office it became clear he was schmoozing his constituency (although he's very low-key - I think he likes to be supportive too. How do I know though? I don't even know the guy - only spoke a few words to him today! I'm sure everyone else in town knows him though. He seems a little shy.)

He was very gracious to the charity and offered his office to match anyone's $5,000 grant they made that day. I don't think it was that type money crowd, but this was my first Manhattan Beach event. I'm just getting the lay of the land down here.

Who knows what goes on in the Soroptomist International of Manhattan Beach? Seems like a great organization to be part of though since they do so much charitable work. I like that. I might have to see what all is entailed to be part of it because I'm impressed with the women I have met to date.

Then drove like a mad woman to Gali's (trying to burn out the additives in my engine like the mechanic suggested this morning when I took my car in for review again.) It was rather fun speeding full bore around the curves of the Sepulveda pass in my red sports car. Fortunately, no police were around because I was booking! Just doing what my mechanic suggested. A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do!

Met with Gali to discuss strategy and next steps. Together with her designer friend, Cynthia Combs, they have created the most classy press kit from the raw press materials I gave them. I was so happy! It was beyond what I imagined it could be. Those two are EXTREMELY talented. Too bad Cynthia's moving to South Carolina to start her eco events business, but I'm sure anything she does will be first class all the way. I'm also sure you'll be hearing about her sooner than later. Mark my words.

I feel good about what Gali and I have planned now and just need to implement everything. This week is going to be extremely busy!  I'm networking like a crazy woman - chamber lunch tomorrow afternoon, Third Tuesday in the evening (don't really network there, but catch up with friends.) Wednesday night - another chamber mixer. I'm intent on checking out the local scene since I normally never hang out down here in the South Bay and am curious who participates.

Thursday morning - another networking breakfast (I overslept last week and hope to make this one - my nights can get late though!) and then that evening two events- the Simpson's movie animation art gallery opening with a cool crowd in attendance (I'm tired and not explaining it properly, but trust me it's going to be great!!!! Fred Willard anyone? How about a Flamin' Moe? I CANNOT WAIT!!!) followed by the EPPS summer mixer which is always a good time.

I pitched myself to a lot of the publicists in that organization to help with their overflow PR work. It will be nice to put the name to the faces. Also, to see old friends I don't see except for these events. Very good group of people. Highly recommend joining if you're an independent publicist, or any type actually.

Okay, I'm getting tired. I do need to say something though about the show, Age of Love. Although at one point I was hoping to like Jen, the oldest one of the bunch, as she is the spokesmodel for the clothing site I was approached to represent, can't say that I do. I think that woman is a Cougar with a capital "C." She even said it herself in tonight's episode, she only wants what she wants.

I WOULD NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, EVER date someone 18 years younger, especially if my son was that age - that's just sick and wrong. I have gone out socially with much, much younger men, but I would NEVER, ever seriously consider dating any of them! I think the youngest I ever hung out with was 18 years and even that was a huge age difference at the time. He was a model - what can I say? First red head I ever hung out socially with too. Too much a Daddy thing since my Dad's a red head - just not my thing. I like my men dark and handsome. Know anyone? :)

BTW, took my profile off yahoo because the person's profile I hid popped up in my box as reviewing my profile and I couldn't figure out how to remove him. If he's not interested enough to contact me, then why stare at his face right? However, it would have been nice, but would have been's do not a relationship make. I think I'm taking a break from online stuff for a bit except maybe EHarmony still. Too much going on this week.

Back to age vs. beauty, whoops, 20's vs. 40's. I don't think it's a fair playing field for someone that much older to pursue someone younger like that - I think what next week's episode will reveal is that Mark (isn't that his name? I'm sorry, he's not that exciting to me - handsome, but a little too naive) is more interested in just having sex with her than having a real relationship.

Also, that woman seems more interested in adding him to her (sex) belt than having a real relationship too I think. She seems too hard and calculating to be anything other than a (fill in the blank.) Can you tell I'm over wanting to work with that company?

However, maybe I should watch what I say seeing as she's the assistant to the head coach of the Lakers and if I ever need a favor, she'd probably be the one I need to deal with!:) Jen, you're a very nice woman and I'm sure you had only the best motives on the show. Really, I do. Truce?

I have to admit though, that show cracks me up when some of the earlier 40 year old women got kicked off because they were bemoaning the fact that time was slipping away (or words to that effect.) I've been there, but not on national TV!!! No reality TV for me - thank you very much. I especially would never go on national TV and announce my age to the world. A lady never reveals her age and a gentleman never asks.

I had to teach that to the little cutie patootie four year old boy who was watching softball with me the other week. I can be real kid-like around kids because I just love playing around and being silly with them which they love too. I guess I was a little too much for his serious little mind and he asked me with great concern, "How old ARE you?" I just love how honest little kids can be.

I kept teasing him and telling him I wanted to pick him up and give him a big hug he was so cute. I told him too, not only is he handsome, but I bet he's smart too, to which he replied, "Yes I am" with all the bravado his tiny little body could muster. HOW CUTE IS THAT!!! They're all coming to my BBQ so I can't wait to see him again. Very fun little boy.

Speaking of which, my little boy (9 years old now!) just sent me the sweetest thank you card for the Star Wars stamps and funny reggae head pencil I sent him for fun. He lives with his adoptive parents outside DC and he's the best little guy. I just love him. I'm going to buy some fun stationary to correspond back to him. Little boys are fun!

It's the big boys you have to watch out for. Just teasing. I wish I had a big boy in my life about now. Are you feeling me single girls? Jen? HA! LOL. In any case, today was fun. Tomorrow is going to be busy so I best be getting to bed.

Have a great night (what's left of it.)

Final wrap-up of LA Fashion Week

Okay Ladies, what you’ve been waiting for finally! I downloaded some of the pix from the 2(x)ist men’s underwear fashion show. Wait till you get a load of these men! Ooh baby!

Check it out in my LA Fashion Week Fall photo album. I also put some other pix in there. I’m sorry they’re so blurry. I really need to get a better camera, but at least you’ll be able to get the look and feel of each show maybe. I’ve uploaded Juan Carlos Obando, Sue Wong, 2(x)ist, Voom, the design suites, friends and fun. More to come!

Just to wrap up our time at Dehoghton Denim and Junker Designs events. We enjoyed the ambiance, but were so bummed we missed the fashion show at the Avalon for Junker Designs. That’s one of my favorite shows because it’s so over the top and wild, but there’s always next season. Check out wireimage and you’ll get an eyeful.

As for De Hoghton Denim, we enjoyed meeting Coretta Scott band member, Brandon, and hanging out for a bit before Michael H (the designer being recognized - who knew he was so multi-talented?) and the Bashers got going. I still need to upload his performance on youtube. I will soon.

So, that’s it for LA Fashion Week. Hope you enjoyed my coverage. Next time I hope to hit more shows and am still waiting on more pix which I’ll let you know about as they get uploaded ok?

Have a great day!

Pride, Determination & Resiliance - followed by Peace

Just watched Pride, the movie starring Terrence Howard and Bernie Mac and highly recommend it. It's so inspiring and such a good story. Pride, Determination and Resilience! PDR! PDR! Maybe it's predictable a bit, but very fun to watch. I especially liked seeing the 1964 and 1974 clothing styles.

Bernie Mac is himself in full glory with 70's facial hair - too funny. I can't believe how easily Terrence Howard can cry in this film. I was ready to drop a few right along with him. There's a lot of racial tension which Tom Arnold is great at expressing. He's still likable despite being a cocky bastard.

Speaking of which, spoke to a good friend tonight. I just love that guy. He's decided he wants to be a better man and is starting to go back to church/temple (couldn't tell which one he was talking about and it doesn't really matter - he's going and God sees his heart.) What a shocker, but very sweet too. May all of us want to be better people.

Ever have one of those days where you have absolute peace about where you are in life? I don't know if someone is praying that for me or not, but today I just have real contentment. Such a nice feeling. I wish that for all of you too.

Maybe because I'm still tired from the week it's a little easier to be peaceful. Moved in more at my new place before going downtown to catch Yana K's fashion show. I wasn't really in the mood to go, but I'm so glad I did. I missed it last season and she's so creative and original.

She held her show downtown at the CA Apparel Mart which made it more interesting right from the start. I haven't been there since I was attending FIDM years and years ago (when I went there they were still at 7th and Flower which is dating me I know, but hey, I've been interested in fashion since high school.)

Some people wonder why I go to shows and it's because you can make meet some great people that you wouldn't normally otherwise. Like tonight. I ended up sitting next to the Associate Editor of Angeleno (at least that's what I heard, the cool trance music was a little loud.) Hey Brian if you're reading - hello and thanks for stopping by.

Also met a modeling agent who reps Asian models and is launching an Asian magazine which is very cool I turned him on to Actress Corrine Wu because I think she's quite stunning and is going to get big soon. Hi Corrine if you're reading. We must work together!

Back to the show. Yana and her team took over this cute little side patio at the mart, covered it with a tent, and lined the interior with chairs with a raised runway down the center. I liked sitting below the runway because it gives you a different perspective of the clothes and makes it much easier to see the shoes which were very fun - bright colored patent pumps, gold wrap wedge sandals, and boots with leopard print stacked heels, among others. 

The designs were so fun - lots of mini mini's with the most amazing leggings and stockings - imagine wild patterns, colors, stripes, on long, leggy models and let your mind go wild - very 60's, very fun. Can't wait to buy some.

The dresses were so unusual too. Lot's of unique buckling, wrapping, cool fabrics, accented by huge, reptile pattern purses. I'm hoping to get some of their official pix from the show to really show you these designs because out of all the shows I think this one was my favorite for wild creativity (although I couldn't wear half the dresses since they barely covered the model's butts and would probably look like a shirt on me!)

I loved the variety of models too - finally. Beautiful Asian, Black, Middle Eastern, and of course white girls with dark smoky eyes and subtle, nude lips - very stunning. I think Yana K is creative through and through. I liked the fact it was a smaller show, more low-key, very sophisticated, but wild too in a way with the focus more on the clothes than which celebrity was there. Who really cares after all when the designs are so great? Check out her site and let me know what you think.

A nice touch during the cocktail hour pre-show was sushi provided by Blowfish Sushi and after the show, gourmet chocolates provided by Madame Chocolat. I also loved the huge multi-colored art sculptures in the middle of the party and the skyscraper buildings on either side. Very cool vibe all the way around. Here's some quick pix. I'll upload the rest from the entire week later...

                            
This woman is wearing a dress from Yana's Spring collection. Funky, eh? She's a bolder woman than I!

Sorry some of the runway shots are bad. I'm using Energizer batteries and they don't work as well in reloading my camera's flash as others I've used so my timing was off.

Big bummer, but can you see the shoes and stockings? A lot of the models wore those funny snoods too which gave everything an interesting look.

I've got to get some sleep because my eyes and hands are killing me, but at least you have a little taste.

I'll get back to this last week tomorrow. Enjoy your Sunday!

Fall season's kick-off fashion show reviews

Good news – here’s some fun pix to share with you. The first one is Eric, my myspace friend. That was so fun to see him walk down the runway. Go Eric. Go Eric. Whoops, the pix are popping out below. Keep reading and you'll come to 'em.

Also, here’s some images from the 2BeFree show too. I’ve asked for some others because I saw brighter colors and more interesting shapes at the show that aren’t reflected here. Plus, these look like retail shots, not fashion show shots and are a little boring. Sorry, but that's the truth. Give me some Paris Hilton or whoever else was fun ok? Really now.

Let’s see where to begin. How about if I share my Fashion Show experiences from Sunday first and depending how tired I am, since I’m bushed, I will go into OMMA. I promise. It really is good stuff and those of you interested in marketing anything need to know this.

Okay, moving right along. I went to my little Redeemer Presbyterian church on Sunday with my friend Debra who abruptly left me because she had an issue with the sound system affecting her hearing due to hearing trouble. No, we’re not rocking out there, but the sound was a little off and I could see why it would bother her.

I didn’t think anything of it until I realized I’d driven over with her and had left the invites to the shows in her car! Cindy, the pastor’s wife, was gracious though and offered to take me home. Thinking it would be late, I decided to leave at the break rather than wait till the end because I wanted to make sure to be on time to the first showroom.

Unfortunately that didn’t happen. I had accidentally locked myself out of the house and had to wait over an hour for my parent’s church to end so mom could bring me the spare and let me in. I was bummed because it was cold and I should have just stayed at my church, but whatever. Debra was nice and left my invites in the mailbox.

Barely had time to eat and change before dashing off to the first of three shows that afternoon. I hadn’t really thought I’d be going to many, or any actually, because I had the two-day conference and was moving etc. etc., but it’s worked out that I’ve seen some real interesting ones.

I’m bummed I missed one tonight, but I think I was just so burnt out that’s why I accidentally left my badge at home and had to turn back. I have a lot of energy, but needed one day just to focus on myself. I have a lot of prepping to do for my Promote Yourself and Make More Money! class I'm teaching next week at the South Bay Adult School and needed to take care of that as a priority today.

So, back to fashion. Those of you in the area should check out Madewell Los Angeles store and tell me what you think. That’s the one I missed which I was bummed about because it was a brunch and private fall preview. Hopefully they’ll invite me again next time though. Apparently this store is the sister store to J. Crew and will be less expensive - cool, eh?

Aren’t the colors cool in these underwear? I think the style of underwear is very flattering (at least everything looked good on these guys. Now do you see why I was happy? It’s been too long God… Where is my knight in shining underwear?) Now do you see what I mean about a ripped body? OOH BABY!

My stylist friend, Nicole, who I’m always talking about was styling the Juan Carlos Obando show which I really wanted to see because it was so exclusive. Because I write about the shows in addition to bringing clients, I was able to attend.

I was glad because it was a very sophisticated and intimate affair. The clothing was very stream-lined, elegant and modern with striking black and white contrasts. I’ve never seen these shoes before, but there were quite a few spectator pumps with lace-ups- very cute. I also loved the slit tops that revealed, but didn’t hit you over the head with the sensuality hinting at the wonders beneath at each move.

I’m not sure how many good shots the photogs got because every time I went to shoot an image the dolly pulled camera that was filming the event on a circular track would block the model. It would be different if the models stayed a little longer to allow for still photography, but they didn’t. I’ll be curious to see what images come out of that show.

The video on it is fantastic though when watched in the lobby and you really got the feeling you were in a photo shoot since the room was set up in the round, there were only 50 or so of us, the music was haunting (Enya and Sarah McLaughlin I believe) and really set a mood. Overall, very enjoyable. I did take some pix from that one and will upload them as soon as I buy new batteries. Sorry, I forgot today. Too much else on my mind.

I also liked the simple lines of each piece. It kind of reminded me of Halston, but the fabric looked like cream wool which hangs differently than I would think his styles would. Gloves seem to be big for fall Ladies – all the way up to the elbows. I also loved the small capelets, very simple, but very elegant. You’ll see what I mean hopefully when I upload some shots.

So that show was very small, very controlled, very smooth and very sophisticated. Then I moved over to the Main Tent to catch Sue Wong. I had missed her show last season which I heard was absolutely amazing so I knew I couldn’t miss it this one too. I’m so glad I got to see her line.

It was so much fun! Her theme was Mod and all her music reflected the theme. Sue Wong did the art direction, the design, chose the music, and did the styling which I found very interesting. Very hands on. She’s Asian and apparently is very popular over there too.

I had decided to attend last minute so my seat wasn’t the greatest, but I was just glad to be inside because I thought it was a great show. Granted, since I wasn’t on the front row I didn’t see the fabrics used up close, but the designs from afar were quite stunning.

She broke up the show into eleven different sections all unique and different styles, music and theme which I just loved. My other stylist friend thought it was all over the place, but I’m beginning to think he doesn’t have imagination and couldn’t see the big picture because to me it was very cohesive under the umbrella of 60’s styling. However, the Asia, Exotica and Brides section did seem a little out of place now that I think about it. Oh well, maybe she was getting bored with the 60's and wanted to please herself.

  The show opened with Go Go dancers wearing little shorts and tops with go go boots dancing up and down the runway which I filmed and will upload on my myspace page (when I get batteries – are you saying that with me now?) That was a fun touch. The Main Tent is huge and you really feel like you’re in a live theatre performance space when the shows begin.

Let me set the scene. At one end is the door the models will walk through with the name of the designer prominently displayed spotlighted. At the other end is a bank of photographers who have fought to get the best space possible because they’re either work for hire, working for the main sites, or hoping to sell what they shoot afterwards. I would say maybe 50 people are crammed into a space about 10 x 12 maybe? I don’t know exactly, but everyone’s right on top of each other.

Then along the sides of the long runway, maybe the length of a football field, you have have about 5 rows of white fold-up chairs on bleachers. Celebrities, stylists, journalists, and others usually sit in the front row and your importance diminishes as you move farther up. It’s very cool to sit in the front because then you actually become part of the scenery and drama of the night. Plus, you can see the clothing details up close and personal which really helps.

However, from where I was sitting I had a bird’s eye view of everything going on. Music plays a big part in setting the tone and stage for a fashion show and this one had great 60’s music all throughout. I love music and after awhile started noting which songs went to which section because that will help you visualize the look and feel of that design I think.

After the Go Go dance performance the first group to come out was entitled Mod Squad. Very cute, short mini shift dresses (if memory holds true – it always helps when I can see the visuals) with all kinds of beading, hot colors, and cut out straps.

Then Chelsea Girls models came out. I loved the long mod-printed maxi dress with black felt adorned yoke trimmed with chunky novelty stones and also the platinum short trapeze dress with silver metallic yoke trimmed with chunky stones. (Can you tell I'm copying the press release? HA!)

Just when I thought I’d seen it all, the next section, entitled Carnaby, really made me happy. Sue chooses the best hats to offset her designs and they really are striking when put with her clothes. I think she had the most variety in models too because this was a huge show! Each section must have had eight different looks per section which to me is amazing to have designed that many pieces.

Producing this elaborate a fashion show and pulling it off flawless is a real feat which Sue and her staff did magnificently. It’s obvious this is a line that does well despite the grumblings of my male stylist friend. He kept comparing it to the Spring line which he thought was mind-blowing in presentation and style, but hey, this was my first show and it blew me away!

Carnaby had lots of geometric prints with short swingy maxi dresses that I would wear in a heartbeat (if they were my size!:)

Liverpool, the next section, was much more elegant and featured chemise dresses with beautiful trims that made them unique and special. Hopefully you’ll be able to tell when you see my pix and hopefully I’ll receive some from the designer as well. They’re always the best ones anyway. You can always go to the official Mercedes Benz LA Fashion Week site and catch all the pictures from the shows too to see what I’m talking about.

Piccadilly featured lots of beading bodices and patterns which I really liked. Imagine short, black evening dresses that swing and sparkle in the light and that’s what this section offered.

Vamps and Vixens was set to the Rolling Stones I can’t get no satisfaction and had more of a rock-n-roll vibe. I didn’t like this set as well because the fabric was gathered and tucked all over which would make anyone other than a beautifully thin model look huge! However, it too had it’s place and I did find one at the end that I liked.

Exotica seemed to be done to music from Arabian Nights if that helps you visualize the styles – lots of flowing dresses with beautiful paisley patterns with long split-fronts and beaded or jeweled midriffs. Perfect for the woman who prefers to dress very feminine and subtle, although with a little flash. There were some amazing necklaces and headpieces worn in this set. Very Arabic and exotic as the name implied. Perfect for someone who wants to be mysterious and alluring.

Asiadid seem a little out of place, but hey, Sue is Asian, so why not? This one was set to Chinese music with a singer singing you took my love away if you can imagine that in your head. Very funny. There were some amazing embroidered coats with beautiful detailing and flare – lots of big sleeves and silk. I absolutely loved this set. Very striking, dramatic and stunning. The models really worked the outfits too throwing their arms wide to display the winged sleeves with all the embrodiery and that dramatic flair really made the clothing come to life.

Then as abruptly as Asia was dropped in, just as quickly did we go back to England with Kensington! As Peggy Lee crooned You don’t Have To Say You Love Me models strutted the runway wearing plum/gold halter lace gowns with pleated skirt and a beaded seutache border worn with a matching shawl. I put two big stars next to this section because I loved it so much. These dresses were more evening wear, revealing, and sexy if memory holds true.

Victoria opened to mod music and set the stage for really beautiful dresses with lots of detailing in fabric and styling with very cute cropped embroidered, fur trimmed, trapeze jackets. I think that’s one style to keep your eye out for because that seemed to be repeated at a couple shows. I know it sounds silly to keep saying, but I loved this section too.

All the dresses were so special with tulling, crochet, beading, krinkled organza, and once again, amazing hats with feathers from Mother Plucker Feather Company Inc (How's that for a name?) that really made pieces pop.

My absolute favorite though was the Brides section. Yes, still wanting to be married and you can never dream too much about what you’ll wear. This opened to the sound of When A Man loves a Woman which was perfect. There were only three dresses, but they were absolutely lovely. I especially loved the first one which is described as vintage beige lace halter long gown & jacket with seutache embroidery and beaded accents.

My mom made my youngest sister’s wedding dress (that's why I know how to sew) and I know how long beading takes to do by hand. Seeing these dresses felt like looking at works of art and the models matched with interesting hanging flower arrangements from their stacked hairstyles.

That’s one thing that can really make or break a look of a show in my opinion. If the model’s hair doesn’t fit in with the design all you’re looking at is the awful style which is why I won’t go into critiquing the next show. Amongst other reasons. They have creativity, but it's just not my style. Enough said.

However, I will say that long, straight, simple hair was the norm for the Juan Carlos Obando show which fit perfectly with the look he was going for. Plus, he chose really stunning models who were very beautiful. The whole show had a very Calvinesque feel to it in my mind even though I haven’t watched a Calvin Klein show in quite a while.

Just pure, simple, clean and elegant. Very different than other CA designers which may be why he chose to keep his collection more private. I would love to know how much his styles go for on the open market because I’m sure they aint cheap people. The only thing that I would change is the way the jackets hung – sometimes the hems seemed to not be pressed properly or something. Otherwise, very nice.

So that’s the rundown for the shows from Sunday. I just love the drama and excitement of never knowing what you’re going to see next come down the runway. Now I have a better feel for how each designer thinks and designs it will be easier to direct clients in the right direction. I know Nicole is going to suggest some Sue Wong dresses to some of her clients who love that type of clothing. I wish Nicole would dress me!:)

I’ll give you a heads up on the OMMA conference perhaps tomorrow. Still have a lot to do and have three shows to hit tomorrow night. Can’t wait. Lots of parties, lots of variety, and lots of amazing fashion ahead! I’m lovin’ it. Like the McDonald’s commercial says.

More Oscar suite reviews and such

Sometimes I think  Hollywood is just too hard for me. People are snobby, critical, unsupportive, jealous, small-minded, selfish, you name it, I’ve met them. What’s the hardest part to accept is when someone that you thought was a friend turns out to have some of those qualities too. I guess the truth shall set you free right?

Then on the flip side, other people that you think would be snobby and difficult turn out to be the nicest, most accommodating, gracious people. Hollywood is just weird that way.

I had asked someone I thought was a friend for recommendations on Oscar suites because she reps fashion and probably would have been approached by all of the event producers, but either she was too busy, or didn’t feel like helping, or she ignored me.

She did communicate when she realized I wasn’t going to bug her about the suites and was even throwing a potential client her way that I met at another suite, but by then it was too late. I just don’t get people sometimes. I’m beginning to think I’m too nice.

I’ve always found the higher up the food chain a person is, the more gracious, kind, and considerate they are. When I used to cater years ago I would work at the most amazing mansions all over the city and the owners were always so wonderful. Our employers were another story, but that’s par for the course in that line of work.

What’s sad is when I see people I was catering with years back, still doing that kind of work while pursuing acting because I know it’s only a matter of time before they either become disenchanted and move home, or never clue in they’re not going to make it as an actor and waste the rest of their life doing small jobs waiting for their big break.

I used to be friends with someone like that and the older she gets the bitterer and more disillusioned she becomes, but she refuses to let go of acting and pursue something else because she likes the party life too much. She’s an attractive woman, but looks fade. I just wonder when she’s going to wake up and realize that it’s time to let go of the dream and get a real life? It’s not like she couldn’t be successful doing something else either, that’s the sad part.

What’s also sad is she still crashes every party in town and will never move forward doing that despite what she thinks, or who she happens to meet. She’s never learned how to capitalize on her contacts in business and spins in circles that aren’t going anywhere. I just can’t be around that energy anymore.

I’d rather stay home on a Saturday night and feel better than burn bridges in my career right now by crashing some stupid party. It's one thing to have someone bring you, it's another just to crash. That’s why I can’t understand why the person I asked for help didn’t feel like sharing information. What harm would it have done? I would never have crashed, but  contacted the producer directly to request permission for me and my clients to attend.

The other irony is that the client she was repping at the suite I happened to figure all this out in is someone I helped her land as a client! I will never do that again. It stung a little to have it thrown in my face though.

I’m not going to these Oscar Retreats for my health or for the goody bags, but to help my clients brand their image and get press, give the vendors a little publicity by my client getting their picture on wireimage at their event, and let my stylist associate know what the latest items are for her to pull from for my clients and others she works with. It’s a win win situation all the way around.

The goody bags are an added bonus, but I don’t need the stuff that’s offered. In fact, I usually give away a lot of it to my clients when they can’t attend and/or to friends if it’s appropriate. My blogging about what I receive helps, not hurts the companies I’ve received products from (unless of course it’s a stupid event or the organizer pisses me off.)

It’s work regardless of how fun it is though. I constantly have to wrangle photographers to take pictures of my clients because they're not famous yet. I have to make sure my clients are happy and feel appreciated because it's a very sensitive situation due to their images being on the line. I have to introduce them around and really don’t have a moment’s peace.

I love it though and wouldn’t trade what I’m doing because it’s a great way to make a living. I have really great clients too which makes all the difference in the world.

Otherwise, I had a very nice day. My friend Wendy is the Sales Director of the Luxe Hotel and always tells me what’s going on at her hotel. She and I have known each other for years and I’ve often thrown events at the hotels she’s worked for. I even helped her launch the Grafton on Sunset when it first opened and didn’t even have a restaurant.

That party was a lot of fun – at night around the pool with flaming desserts and other New Orleans style food catered from Louisiana (way before Katrina of course.) I knew I had to hit the Luxe again this year.

The Platinum Guild Oscar Suite on the penthouse was simply stunning. I knew the PR girls putting it on and they did an amazing job. It was so classy and elegant--top notch all the way. This is the suite that had millions of dollars of gems on display for stylists and nominees to pull from for the Oscars. Can I say ABSOLUTELY STUNNING again?!

I’m not really into jewelry, but I loved this beautiful array of exquisite jewels. The gentleman from the Platinum Guild who assisted us let me try on rings that were worth a million dollars and even had the photographer take a picture that he’ll send to me just for fun.

I’ve never seen such large gems – all kinds – and so many diamonds all in one place it was no wonder the guest list was so tight. Now that is an Oscar Suite I’m glad I visited. At the time I received the invite I thought, oh jewels, that’s nice, but that’s not really me. However, after going there and seeing all of them, I now understand why women and men go crazy for platinum and diamonds.

I’ve always wanted a platinum wedding ring because gold irritates my skin for some reason. There were so many choices to choose from. It was simply amazing the intricacy of design and uniqueness of each piece. We met one of the key people of the Guild and he was so down-to-earth and funny we had to take a picture together.

The suite was complimented by a beautiful outdoor patio overlooking downtown Beverly Hills
and we took a few pictures outside. My client, Lejla, was supposed to come, but was unable to due to other commitments. Too bad. She would have loved it. She has a very graceful, dancer type neck and everything would have looked great on her. We'll have to see what we can make happen for her for the Elton John party though.

I have a huge square cubic zirconium ring and necklace which I bought just for fun. To see even bigger real diamonds up close and personal was a little mind-blowing to say the least. I just think I would always feel a little paranoid to wear that expensive of jewelry around town.

Two Oscars ago, during other Oscar suites, I had borrowed a few pieces from another jeweler for my client and myself (the jeweler was very gracious and offered jewels to me too! Who was I to refuse?) And although the ring I wore was only $30,000 I remember feeling hugely nervous that it would slip off my finger and I would lose it the entire night. I also felt very nervous to have my client wearing his ring too because I was responsible. I just don’t need the headache!

That’s why it’s nice to have my stylist associate, Nicole, along because she takes full responsibility for anything she pulls from designers whether it is clothes, shoes, or jewels. I don’t want that liability and am happy to let her dress my clients while I just oversee the process.

I met the nicest people at the Platinum Guild too. There were some people from a spa performing some spa treatments and a guy who just launched a new eyebrow line. Very sweet, down-to-earth, no ego despite their high-profile clientele – my kind of people... I even had my eyebrows shaped and colored after looking at the jewels.

All in all that day was really relaxing. I had spent the morning listening to the Foreign Film Directing Nominees speak at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences which was very interesting. Another friend who works over at the Academy had got me tickets for my clients despite the show appearing sold out.

There were enough seats though when I arrived that I was able to enjoy the event as well. Domiziano opted out at the last minute, which was fine. Since I was feeling sick all morning I actually got up towards the end to grab some Pepto Bismol from the drugstore down the street before coming back just before everyone left.

Before I got into producing film festivals years ago, I used to soak up all types of film. I would volunteer at all types of film festivals because I just loved film. Then I ran my film festival for six years and became so burnt out on independent films I really haven’t been to any unique films lately, but stick to commercial offerings.

That’s why it was delightful to hear these directors speak and to see clips of their films. There is just a different cinematic sensibility and beauty to foreign films that I had forgotten about until this morning. The stories are always compelling, beautifully told and share deep, deep human truths.

I love art that feeds your soul. I feel so many of the films nominated this year did just that from what I saw and heard this morning. The East Indian female director, Deepa Mehta, from Canada had had a rather harrowing experience in India trying to create her film, Water, the first time she started over 7 years ago. (Click the link to read the whole story and see the film.)

Apparently, the Hindu people were so upset that she was creating this film that they mobbed the set (15,000 people!) and actually burned an effigy of her body before burning her set and throwing the remaining equipment into the river. It was chilling to hear that. That’s why it took so long for her to create the film. They ended up filming in Sri Lanka instead.

Guillermo del Toro, the Mexican Director, who created Pan’s Labyrinth (which looks visually stunning although extremely disturbing too) joked afterwards and said, “Why is that you never hear of things like that happening to Norbit?” which helped break the serious mood.

He was extremely clever and funny, but used the “F” word a lot which offended some of the older members of the audience. I don’t think he remembered or could see that half the audience was older as they’re the ones who generally like foreign films, make up the voting population, and judge them for the Academy. It was funny.

The German film director, Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, of The Lives of Others wouldn’t shut up and although he had some good points to make he dominated the panel which was rather frustrating as he’s a first-time film director and doesn’t have as much experience as the others. I was really frustrated with the moderator for not controlling this motor-mouth better. Florian was a cute, fun man, but enough already!

I don’t know what it is with first-time filmmakers, but they’re always so excited about what they’ve done they blabber on so much! I remember that from my film festival days and it used to irritate me then too. YOU’RE NEW! YOU DON’T KNOW ANYTHING! LET SOMEONE MORE EXPERIENCED SHARE SOMETHING!

I have a friend whose sister is just like that too. Her sister is so hungry for attention she never takes a breath to allow anyone else to have a dialog, she just insists on carrying on a monologue for five to ten minutes straight. That drives me crazy. I can’t be friends with my friend anymore because of her sister, among other things. Shut the “F” up already! NO ONE CARES! GET A CLUE PEOPLE!

The other thing I remember from my festival days is that the filmmakers who were writers and directors of their film usually made the best films. I think it’s because they approach the story from multiple levels and see what they want to create as they write it. I believe Guillermo wrote and directed his film, as did Florian and Deepa.

The only one who didn’t was the female Danish director,Susanne Bier, of After the Wedding who said she uses scripts as guidelines, but she reserves the freedom to divert from the script if she feels it’s necessary.

All in all it was a very interesting panel. I’m glad Lejla and I went. She looked very Audrey Hepburn in her cute outfit. It’s a perfect look for her and we’ll just continue to build on that image.

I enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Luxe Hotel before hitting their Oscar Suites with my stylist Associate, Nicole. Then we went to the Sunset Hyatt to hit the Platinum Oscar Suite. That’s the same group who had done the Emmy Suites where I got the funny Paris Hilton perfume, remember?

This one was very nice and had the most amazing male cologne called Corduroy - I loved it! Very light and sexy consisting of mandarin, grapefruit, white lavender, cardamom, bay rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, woods, tonka, and vanilla. One guy liked it so much he lifted his shirt and sprayed his stomach right then and there!

My client Domiziano joined Nicole and I there and he loved it too. Wireimage took a lot of pictures of him because I think there were only reality stars while we were there.

Mark, the funny talent agent of reality stars, was there too. He’s still funny, but I think he was tired because he wasn’t as ‘on’ as he had been the last time I saw him with Lejla. He asked after her though which I thought was cute.

This suite had an amazing new premium chocolate assortment booth hosted by Hershey’s and suggested we create a chocolate testing party. If they’re giving away free chocolate to do it, then I’m there! That would be a lot of fun to create.

I also loved the Haute Moms Rule t-shirts and bags. I picked one up for Shana, my haute mom friend, because she would love it. Christine Price, the owner of the company, is very beautiful and sweet. The clothing line is extremely clever and witty. I recommend you give these as gifts to all the haute mom’s in your life!

I also really liked the Kangaroo shoe collection. Too bad my friend dissed me or I would have hooked her up with him for his Italian children’s shoe line he’s launching as it would be great with her client’s children’s clothing line, but oh well.

 There were also these amazingly cool little suitcases that hold makeup etc. When I’m not so tired I’ll look up the name and show you. Very fun. This was one of the better suites we hit. I was glad Domi came out too. He works so hard he deserves a little pampering.

Okay, gotta run. That’s all for now. Oh yeah, Friday’s suites were great too. I’ll tell you about those later.

Happy Sunday. 

 

 

 

 

Let them eat cake!

Okay, I'm going to try and wrap this up tonight for those faithful enough to keep reading. HA!

In any case, back to my conversation with my stylist friend. According to her, which I tend to agree, in LA, the order of importance is: 1. Celebrity 2. Parties 3. Designs. She commented on the fact that all last week there was free alcohol poured the entire time and in New York - it's coffee.

However, not to rag too much on poor party-driven LA Fashion Week, we do love that aspect of it just as much and maybe more so than some of the fashion! Where else in LA do you have the opportunity to see the same people almost every day for seven days (and nights) straight. The Emmy's - one day/night. The Oscars - one night. The SAG Awards - one night. And on and on.

LA Fashion Week you never know who you're going to bump into next, or who you'll meet. It might be a designer a photographer, a makeup artist, a model, an actor/actress, a stylist, and the list goes on. Then, by the time the week is up they're your new best friends who you, for the most part, won't see until the next fashion week and then bang, you're all best friends again! (Like here's some new friends I made this time out - Lisa, stylist, Deborah, makeup artist, Brett, model, and me, publicist/writer.)

That happened with a hairstylist friend of mine. I met him through a makeup artist friend downtown at a fashion show on the roof of the Standard. He didn't like her always bugging him for work, but he liked the fact I write. Secretly, he would invite me (without her) to see his hair designs at Louis Verdad which lead to other invitations by other friends and soon I was caught up in the flurry surrounding it as well.

For those of you wondering why I'm at home on a Friday night blogging rather than partying I'll have you know that I went out last night and hit the Final Draft party which was interesting, especially when the busloads of 20 year-olds fresh off the bus from USC started pouring into the nightclub at 10pm. It was a riot to see the writers who'd won awards and were dressed in suits (yes, they were all men - fuckers - probably nice, but where's the female representation?) and then all the Halloween happy college kids dancing and cavorting. We, Steven, Shana and I, had a blast carrying on and reliving our distant youth. Too funny.

All that to say, tonight all I wanted was dinner and a movie with a good friend. I guess I'm still hooked on fashion though because we saw Marie Antoinette, Sofia Coppola's movie. I don't know if the theater screened the film out of focus, or the real film is fuzzy, but it was difficult to watch after awhile. Plus, her pacing is so slow. However, the fashions and settings were stunning. I was curious to see her  filmmaking style because of the success of her last film, Lost in Translation. Curiosity is satiated. How do you like my new hair? Got it cut at Hush Hush last Monday night and then colored it myself. I like it so much better!

Okay, back to fashion.  Earlier this week I read LA  Weekly bloggers opinion of the fashions and felt a little intimidated, but after speaking to my stylist friend who works on both coasts and who spoke to her high-profile stylist friends, I feel like my opinions, although different than catty LA Weekly girls, do carry merit. For example, the Metro 7 show, which Wal-Mart produced we all thought was very well done. The LA Weekly people looked down their noses on it strictly because it was Wal-Mart. That's what I love about fashionistas. It's not about politics honey - it's about the clothes and the fashion!

We both thought it was very well done. Here's some pix I took, since my photographer opted out for political reasons as well, which show some of my stylist friends and others checking out the fashions. Speaking of professionals, I wonder how many buyers actually come out to these shows too. It seems like more regular people are there and it's a real scene, versus a business.

However, who says we have to be just like NY? That said, it would still be nice to see some menswear fashion shown. Where's all the amazing male designers in LA? I'm ready to see some hot guys stride down the runway wearing suits. Love that look! I'm sure there's men's sportswear lines that would benefit from showcasing. I'll work on that and get back to you. HA!
Back to the Metro 7 show. Very cleverly, during the time models were changing, they would screen some highlights from the Fashion TV show that Morgan Fairchild (who was in the front row along with numerous other cast members) stars in beside Bo Derek. It was hilarious some of the campy clips screened of Bo & Morgan cat fighting. In any case, Danny, the guy in the pink, loved the eyewear and the simplicity of the lines.

Apparently, he's one of the bigger stylists who attended and we bonded over sitting behind Diana Ross at the Meghan Fabulous show. Tee Hee. Gotta admit, if you're going to gossip about a celebrity, why not one of the biggest stars? I will repeat, she was absolutely adorable. She was there to cheer on her daughter and was so cute to see her get so excited. Her daughter was ok, but looked extremely nervous. Work it baby!

Back to more shows. Let's see, I've told you about Louis Verdad, Meghan Fabulous, Metro 7. Oh yeah, Kush Cush. This show I wasn't planning on attending, but because my client showed up late and missed Metro 7, I had to schmooze him into this one. I was glad he did because he was given front row seats along with his 10 year old rap prodigy, Lil' Ace.

There they are. Damien rarely smiles. That hat never comes off. He keeps promising to make my 7 year old neice one because she's such a hat girl. I had her tell him in her little voice that she really wants her hat. It's been almost a year since he promised it to her and I'm going to see that she gets it. He gets 'em specially made of mink and he has a pink one too. He has relatives who work in politics and he even has a picture of himself wearing his hat with President Bush and his uncle. Too funny - especially when he's so polar opposite of Bush.

Anyway, the bathing suits were very feminine with ruffles. Really cute. There's more samples in my LA Fashion Week photo album. The final night I went to see Kevan Hall's show. Now that was a show! Like I've said before, Jody Whatley opened by singing one of her remixes of Aquarious. That was a treat and she truly looked like a diva that night. His designs are truly amazing.

If/when I book a female client, I'm going to see if she can borrow some of the designs for red carpet appearances. He used to design for Halston and the clean line influence are evident in his creations. He is vastly theatrical and his show was a wonderful way to end Fashion Week for me.   Sit back and enjoy the view from Felle's perspective.

I'll post more once I find the missing emails the publicist sent me. I'm so bummed because this in no way represents all his designs - there were so many other variations I'm dying to show you! However, aren't they nice? But enough about fashion for awhile ok?

I think I have some male readers and I'm sure they're breathing a heavy sigh of relief.  Just check out my LA Fashion Week photo album for uploaded pix when I find it ok? Have a good night and safe Halloween! See ya!                     

LA Fashion Week wrap-up

Just read the Daily Mini and realized one of the major differences between LA Fashion Week and any of the other Fashion Weeks around the world is that we don't have celebrity models in LA, other than one or two who are really known only in LA like Lesa Amoore and Caroline D'Amore.

The other difference I noticed is that we also don't have big fashion magazine editors critiquing everything out here. Maybe they're around, but they're not the celebrities they are in NY and elsewhere. I did see the Access Hollywood Producer at every show I attended, but no one made a big deal over her which is how I think she likes it. Maybe CA is more TV/Celebrity-oriented at our fashion shows and the designs are just background - I don't know.

The main people who get interviewed or talked about are the Smashbox brothers and they're the ones who host the shows at their studio so they better get some recognition out of it. Their makeup is given away in the goody bags, there's an area set aside for people to get made up using their products and it could be seen as a bigger publicity push for them with the designers seen as secondary. I don't know for sure because I'm not in the inner circle, but according to one photographer (who I know from numerous other red carpet events) this year there wasn't as many big celebrities in attendance, the crowds were smaller and even the designers were limited. Like I said, I'm not an industry insider on fashion, but I believe him.

However, the shows that I did attend, Louis Verdad, Meghan Fabulous, Kevan Hall, KushCush, Junker Designs, and Metro 7 were all well-attended. I don't know who all was there, but all the seats were filled! The bank of photographers seemed as robust as ever and the only issue I heard raised by another photographer was regarding the lighting during the Kevan Hall show.

Apparently, the show producer was so interested in making it exciting, he forgot that photographers need the spotlight to remain on the models for a period of time in order to give them time to shoot good pictures. The show producer also kept changing the colors of the spotlight which gave the crowd a very interesting affect from our perspective, but ran havoc with photographers who didn't have the time to adjust their settings to accomodate the change in lighting for each model. I told the publicist and hopefully she'll pass it along.

Back to the other shows... Meghan Fabulous designs were over the top and amazing. Lots of ethnic inspiration, lots of color, lots of long gowns with unique shell decorations, beading, and large, candy-like necklaces. Her show's theme was the No-Tell Motel and it began with the invitation. Enclosed was a typical motel gold key with the words, No Tel Motel on one side and Do Not Disturb on the other. This carried through with the passes given upon check-in. You were handed Do Not Disturb hanging tags with the words No Tel Motel on the other side again.

Bare-chested male models wearing only motel like jackets, little pill box hats and trimmed pants handled large luggage carts at the opening of the show. Caroline D'Amore always draws applause just because she's a "celebrity" and is our only recognizable model due to her odd gait and flamboyant modeling. Last I heard they were doing either a reality or documentary on her life. Could be interesting.

  Felle, who shot some of the good pix, only sent me images with African American women in them so some of the choices are limited, but at least I'm giving a shout out to those who did model. That's one thing I observed with another publicist friend...  there wasn't much diversity in some of these shows. I don't know if the bookers aren't sending them out to the designers, the designers aren't selecting them, but it was rather sad to see how white the models were for the most part. California of all places is so much more diverse than caucasion. Plus, some of the clothes look more beautiful against black skin. Maybe the buyers are all white, I don't know that either. In any case, here's some shots from Meghan Fabulous's show courtesy of Felle.

Having trouble uploading. Will finish later...

Okay, I'm back. The next show I hit was the Louis Verdad show. His designs are feminine also, but in a tailored way. He also was very subdued in his choice of colors. I like how sophisticated and genteel his designs always are. Just got off the phone with one of my stylist friends and she gave me the lowdown on backstage gossip for this show. Apparently, unlike New York, LA doesn't have one person coordinating all the dressers backstage which sometimes causes havoc in a show. This week had models coming out with clothes on backwards (which my stylist friend blames on the models because they've actually worn them once properly); shoes that didn't fit; tags hanging out; hanger ribbons hanging out, etc, etc, etc. Oy vey!  However, to the untrained eye, it all looked fabulous from where I was sitting.