Confessions of a Fashion Writer

Models to Watch F/W 2011

2011-02-12T02:06:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again where the top models are ready to conquer the fashion world. The amazing beauties will be hitting the runways in New York, London, Milan and Paris. The following in demand rising stars are Arizona Muse, Xiao Wen, and Lindsey Wixson. These girls have made a name for themselves in the industry and show no signs of slowing down. The industry established stars such as Karlie Kloss and Abbey Lee will be ruling the runways and displaying their immense star power. All of the following girls are the models to watch this fashion show season. -Brent Billiman

Photo courtesy of Next Models: Model Karlie Kloss

Photo courtesy of Next Models: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw

Photo courtesy of Next Models: Model Arizona Muse

Photo courtesy of DNA Models: Model Edita Vilkeviciute

Photo courtesy of DNA Models: Model Magdalena Frackowiak

Photo courtesy of DNA Models: Model Maryna Linchuk

Photo courtesy of Ford Models: Model Karmen Pedaru

Photo courtesy of Marilyn Agency: Model Eniko Mihalik

Photo courtesy of Marilyn Agency: Model Lindsey Wixson

Photo courtesy of IMG Models: Model Barbara Palvin

Photo courtesy of IMG Models: Model Xiao Wen

Photo courtesy of IMG Models: Model Jac

Photo courtesy of IMG Models: Model Frida Gustavsson

Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 2011

2011-01-21T16:04:00.000-08:00

A sexy ambiguous spy at Gaultier. French designer Jean Paul Gaultier was motivated this season by Ian Fleming's fictional character James Bond 007. A character known for his masculine charm and incredible fashion choice with his trademark sleek dinner jacket. Gaultier payed homage to Bond but added his own kinky twist by toying around with the idea of sexual perversion and femininity. With the idea of androgyny and femininity in mind the star of the show was Serbian Australian male model Andrej Pejic whom displays beautiful feminine features and long blonde hair. The gender bending idea channeled American actress Veronica Lake as the alter ego of James Bond. The feminine charm was evident in the fishnet tights that were paired with the high cut boy shorts and also peeked out under pants. The tuxedo was the main focus and was paired various pieces such as simple trousers, neoprene leggings, skirts and sexy hot pants. Amongst the tuxedo jackets was a nice variety of jackets that came in leather, fur-lined and also available in a pin-striped. Adding to the sleek sensation was the shiny diamond quilted puffer jackets. Bond's masculinity prevailed in the sleek leather trench coat and tailored to perfection tuxedo pieces. The show portrayed the different elements of James Bond with the classic look, the feminine alter ego, the villains, a femme fatale side and Goldfinger from the 1960's. The Jean Paul Gaultier look was sexy with a nice touch of femininity.

The event was held at the Jean Paul Gaultier headquarters show space on Rue Saint-Martin in Paris. The show opened with Spanish model Miguel Iglesias the traditional sleek James Bond attire of a black tuxedo with a shiny lapel and perfected bow tie and a gun in one hand. Moments after androgynous model Andrej Pejic emerged in a stunning white shirt that was undone to his navel paired with black fishnet pantyhose stockings peeking at the waist. The black tuxedo was relaxed and the look resembled Veronica Lake with his beautiful blonde hair swept to the side. A nice variety of pieces such as tailored pants paired with a long or short navy buttoned skirts were great options. Black was mostly prevalent in the villain pieces with suggestive cutouts and hot pants that were accessorized with guns.

Admired pieces in the collection were the classic sleek black tailored tuxedos and the long leather trench coats. The Gold embossed jacket was incredibly chic and was one of the most appealing pieces in the collection. The fur coat that Pejic wore in the finale was amazing and channeled the alter ego Veronica Lake.

Jean Paul Gaultier paid homage to fictional character James Bond by adding his own twist on a new character that relied on his feminine charm and masculine muscles to save the world. Gaultier displayed great skills with this collection to show the sexuality and femininity of James Bond. The Jean Paul Gaultier man is ready to save the world with his sleek look and feminine charm. -Brent Billiman reporting from Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Andrej Pejic for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Miguel Iglesias for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Nicolas Ripoll for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gualtier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Andrej Pejic for Jean Paul Gaultier F/W 11

Prada F/W 2011

2011-01-20T18:28:00.000-08:00

Priestly chic meets posh punk at Prada. Italian designer Muiccia Prada created a collection that had a religious sentiment with priestly attire with a punk edge and a hint of 1970's Star Trek. The marriage between these ideas were intertwined to create a fall collection that had the classic Prada tailoring with a punk edge and a touch of science fiction chic. In previous collections she has always showed great intellect with the idea of turning something that was unappealing and making it palpable. With that idea she has never really cared for suede but this time around there was a generous amount of it. Suede was visible in the swing coats and jackets that came in brown, tan and black diamond patterns that was reworked to make more appealing for the customer. The key colors in the collection mostly consisted of a dark hues of black, charcoal and light gray with hints of tan, chocolate, lavender and emerald green. Amongst the dark tailored boxy coats was v-neck knits, short trousers and shiny shorts. The diamond patterns were visible in subtle colors on shirts, coats and knit sweaters giving a 1970's feeling to the collection. The priestly idea was evident in the black tailored jacket, coats and band collared shirts. The Prada look was edgy with a hint of sci-fi chic.

The show was held at the Prada Milan headquarters show space on Via Fogazzaro. Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas created the unique duplex catwalk with wrought-iron fencing and brilliant lighting. The soundtrack for the show was provided by French DJ Frederic Sanchez who played heavy metal hits from Metallica, Judas Priest and Motorhead. The show opened with a Prada exclusive model Rob Ahrens in a black boxy frame three-button jacket with a short lapel paired with charcoal gray sculpted trousers. Trousers in the collection had a 1920's sensation with narrowly cut at the ankles that flared around the knees giving it a relaxed tailored look. The coats and jackets were incredibly boxy with short and long lapels consisted mostly of a dark color palette. Knee-high Lurex argyle socks were added to short trousers and shiny shorts giving a quirky sensation.

Admired pieces in the collection were the ultra-boxy coats and jackets that were available in black, camel, light gray and charcoal. The emerald green v-neck Lurex sweater was incredibly appealing and had that special sci-fi chic look. The trousers were be greatly appreciated by the customer for the incredible tailoring and fit.

Muiccia Prada is a mastermind and displayed her immense intellectual skills with this innovative collection. Priestly tailoring combined with punk chic and a hint of Star Trek were the key elements for the next fall season for Prada. The Prada man is edgy with an appreciation for sophisticated tailoring. -Brent Billiman reporting from Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Robin Ahrens for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Nicolas Ripoll for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Tim Meiresone for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Prada F/W 11

Bottega Veneta F/W 2011

2011-01-19T14:33:00.000-08:00

Art emphasized flaws displayed at Bottega Veneta. Italian designer Tomas Maier created a collection that had an artful touch of nonchalant implied flaws aimed at the customer with a busy lifestyle. Every piece had a technical treatment that was applied giving it a lived in look while maintaining a luxurious appeal. Leather jackets and pants were crumpled and stretched giving it a rugged masculine touch. Dark wool suits had a over-print treatment giving the illusion of a three dimensional look with misplaced stitching. The fabrics in various pieces were textured and distressed making it entirely abstract. The color palette started out with monochromatic dark wool pieces and shifted into bright technicolor of orange tangerine, bright blue, lemon yellow and sapphire. For the bold color choice Maier was influenced by the 1960's Michelangelo Antonioni classic film, “Red Desert.” The Bottega Veneta look was masculine with a carefree spirit.

The event was held at the Bottega Veneta headquarters at Via Privata Ercole Marelli in South Milan. Argentinian model Nicolas Ripoll opened the show in a dark gray wool suit with an over-print treatment and a strictly cut jacket. The matching pants had a relaxed feeling that was unpressed and tucked inside boots. There was a great range of variety in the selection of pants that came in distressed leather, wool and also came in various colors. Every piece had a artful quirky touch and remained chic at the same time.

Admired pieces in the collection was the distressed leather jackets and pants that gave a nice rugged look. The bold colored coats that were available in bright blue and orange tangerine were incredibly appealing.

Tomas Maier created a artful collection that was artistic and creative with implied flaws that would work perfect for the customer with a busy lifestyle. There was immense creativity that he displayed injecting masculinity and art into a successful fall collection. The Bottega Veneta man has a relaxed attitude while remaining incredibly chic. -Brent Billiman reporting from Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Nicolas Ripoll for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sean O'Pry for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Terron Wood for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Bottega Veneta F/W 11

Dolce & Gabbana F/W 2011

2011-01-17T20:43:00.000-08:00

Eccentric tailoring at Dolce & Gabbana. Italian designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana displayed an eccentric touch by re-tailoring classic pieces infusing a modern edge into their fall collection. Adding to the eccentric theme there was also a nod to the 1970's glam English musician Bryan Ferry with icon t-shirts that displayed his album artwork. In the purple and black pave-sequined tuxedo jackets Ferry's personal style was also prevalent and clearly similar to pieces he would wear while performing with the Roxy music. Taking a new direction from last season's Sicilian influence the design duo displayed an edgy modern take on English tailoring. The color palette of the collection mostly consisted of black and grays with eccentric touches of purple and red. A floral red print was also injected into various pieces such as the leather bomber jacket, a tailored suit, tuxedo jackets and distressed jeans. The tailoring of the clothes were modern with fitted jackets and low-rise multi-pocketed pants suitable for a younger audience. The Dolce & Gabbana look was a edgy modern take on Oliver Twist.

The event was held at Dolce & Gabbana Metropol theater on Viale Piave in Milan. The soundtrack for the show was from Bryan Ferry's Roxy music. English model Guy Robinson opened the show in a light gray vertical stripe double breasted jacket with matching low slung trousers. The jackets were tailored and cropped to perfection. The tailoring and fit of every piece had a casual touch with distressed jeans paired with a classic tuxedo jacket. The collection channeled English tailoring with a hint of an eccentric touch of a youthful attitude.

Admired pieces in the collection were the pave-sequined tuxedo jackets that were offered in purple and black. A leather bomber jacket that came in basic red and red floral print was incredibly unique and adored by the editors and stylist. The Bryan Ferry icon t-shirts will be greatly adored by the Dolce & Gabbana customers. The fur jackets were definitely the next season's must have pieces for men.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana displayed a collection that infused a eccentric modern touch to the fall collection. They had a great amount of practical wearable pieces but this season it was aimed at a younger clientele. The Dolce & Gabbana man is young and edgy this next winter season. -Brent Billiman reporting from Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Nicolas Rippol for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Guy Robinson for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Noah Mills for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Garrett Neff for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sean O'Pry for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 11

Male Models to Watch F/W 2011

2011-01-14T14:21:00.000-08:00

This season in Milan there is a unbeatable amount of immense talent that will be present on every major runway. There will be a nice handful of classic handsome models alongside a nice touch of a few edgy guys. Top designers, casting directors and editors will be offered a great combination this season. The upcoming models to watch are the current boys of the moment featuring current catwalk kings and rising stars. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Photo Courtesy of Why Not Models: Model Nicolas Ripoll

Photo Courtesy of Why Not Models: Model Garrett Neff

Photo Courtesy of 2Morrow Models: Model Johannes Niermann

Photo Courtesy of 2Morrow Models:Model Alex Nestor

Photo Courtesy of Elite Milan: Model Lukas Mutinelli

Photo Courtesy of Elite Milan: Model Vladimir Ivanov

Photo Courtesy of Fashion Models: Model Casey Taylor

Photo Courtesy of Fashion Models: Model Terron Wood

Photo Courtesy of I Love Models: Model Simon Nessman

Photo Courtesy of I Love Models: Model Andrej Pejic

Photo Courtesy of I Love Models: Model Lenz Von Johnston

Prada S/S 2011

2010-09-26T22:57:00.000-07:00

An impressive display of bold colors at Prada. Italian designer Miuccia Prada displayed her version of Latin American luxury that was full of bold colors and amazing fabrics. She referenced the late legendary performers Carmen Miranda and Josephine Baker. Miranda influenced the prints of the monkeys, cherubs and pineapples that she famously wore on her head while performing. The banana prints referenced the trademark skirts that Baker would wear in her cabaret act. The bold colors of orange, hot pink, greens and indigo blue referenced the bright colors from Latin America. Horizontal bold stripes were visible in the tops, skirts, jackets, beach-side totes and fox fur stoles. The nautical stripes and the uniform-like pieces were similar to her recent men's collection that was inspired by uniforms. There was a great selection of ruffled dresses with spaghetti-straps available in black, orange and pink. Plain cotton suits, similar to uniforms, came in bold colors of orange, violet, hot pink and indigo. The Prada look had a straight forward bold attitude with a luxurious quality.

The show was held at the Prada headquarters show space with a metal and steel structure runway that light-up when the show started. American model and Prada exclusive Arizona Muse opened the event in a bright orange cotton uniform suit paired with a dyed green fox tail stole. The plain cotton suits where offered in various bright colors of orange, hot pink, indigo blue, green and bold stripes. The skirts were tight fitting with hemlines to the knee and some pieces had a feminine touch of thick frills at the bottom of the skirts. The fit of the jackets and the tops were incredibly loose and matched the colors of the skirts that they were paired with. The dresses were fitted and offered bold prints and stripes. The cuts and colors of the clothes gave a Caribbean sensation and one might think of Cuba.

Admired pieces were the sun dresses that had plenty of structure with thin straps and a deep v-neck and had frills attached to the hemlines. The fox tail stoles were came in bold colors and stripes were the next spring season must have pieces.

Miuccia Prada displayed her idea of the perfect wardrobe for the unconventional Latin lady going on a holiday. This collection was brilliant with gutsy bold colors and prints from the Jazz era. The Prada women is bold with a great love for Latin America. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Arizona Muse for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Mariacarla Boscono for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sara Blomqvist for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Caroline Brasch Nielsen for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kinga Rajzak for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anouck Lepere for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Hannah Noble for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Valerija Kelava for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Daiane Conterato for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lynn Amelie Rage for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jessica Stam for Prada S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kendra Spears for Prada S/S 11

Fendi S/S 2011

2010-09-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

A casual and fresh look at Fendi. German designer Karl Lagerfeld and Italian designer Silvia Fendi Venturini created a collection had great elements of a couture collection with tremendous workmanship but maintained a casual relaxed attitude. A great attention to detailing in the fabrics was made in the rubber stamped organza, woven leather pieces and waxed nylon. Lagerfeld infused his German skills to the geometric cuts and ideas this season. It was all about the geometric form made with soft materials giving a free flowing sensation to each piece. The color palette for the collection was colorful and bright and inspired by the colors of the sunset. Shift dresses had immense volume with large proportioned sleeves, blouses and asymmetrical shirts were relaxed and free flowing. There was great innovation in the fabrics in the dramatic red dress in waxed nylon. The Fendi look had ladylike sophistication with a relaxed spring attitude.

The show was held at via Sciesa show space with what appeared to be a cappuccino stained backdrop and similar to the same design on the invites to the show. The soundtrack for the event was provided by the French DJ Michel Gaubert who sampled drumbeats and pulsing sounds from the 1970's erotic films. Polish model Anja Rubik opened the show in a white dress with a drawstring waist that had relaxed shoulders and sleeves. Amongst the relaxed white pieces was a colorful sensation of prints, detailing and cuts. Innovation with fabrics was the key element in a great number of pieces. The atelier like treatments of woven leather skirts, micro-flowers sewn on cocktail dresses and treated leather on a few pieces.

The red dramatic dress that was made in waxed nylon was greatly admired in the collection. Razor thin cocktail dresses embellished with micro-flowers were also very appealing. The vivid colors offered the bags and clutches were notable and created by Silvia Fendi Venturini, a second generation at Fendi.

Infusing a casual fresh look with couture like qualities was the key element to creating a successful collection at Fendi. The duo Karl Lagerfeld and Silvia Fendi Venturini brought a masculine and feminine approach to a collection that innovative and carefree. This collection displayed an immense amount of quality with the great detailing s and innovation with fabrics. The Fendi women has great sophistication and appreciation for luxury and quality. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Samantha Gradoville for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kendra Spears for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Daria Strokous for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jacquelyn Jablonski for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kendra Spears for Fendi SS11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Constance Jablonski for Fendi SS11

Gucci S/S 2011

2010-09-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

Legendary fashion photographer inspires Gucci. Italian designer Frida Giannini was motivated this season from the work of the late French fashion photographer Guy Bourdin. He was one of the best photographers in the business in the late half of the 20th century known for his controversy and style. His work that was referenced was from the 1970's when he was working with Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. Giannini also gave a nod to the late designer Yves St. Laurent. The color palette was bold with bright colors of violet, green, orange and turquoise. The 1970's chic sensation was visible in the jumpsuits, drop-crotch trousers, blazers, jackets and free flowing blouses. There was also the signature Frida pants that had a relaxed sensation available in black, beige, camel, turquoise and purple. The craftsmanship in the collection was obvious with immaculate details in the leather pieces visible on fringed jackets, leather pants and various cocktail pieces. The signature equestrian sensation was perceptible in the woven tassels and horse-bits in the belts and bags. The Gucci look was seductive with a nice hint of sophistication and elegance.

The show was held at the Piazza Oberdan Gucci show space with the signature Gucci beige backdrop. Brazilian model Raquel Zimmermann opened the event in a bright orange blazer, green pants and violet top paired with a python belt. There was a great number of day wear pieces such as the signature Frida pants and a relaxed drop-crotch pants offered in a variety of colors from the bold color selections to the basic black. The evening pieces were show stopping with great attention to details giving off a North African vibration. The cocktail dresses had great panache with embroidery, gold touches, eloquent leather detailing and feathers.

Admired pieces in the collection were the leather and crocodile jackets, one in particular was bomber jacket that was made in burnished crocodile. The ethnic woven finale pieces available in purple, turquoise, orange and black were greatly admired.

Referencing a legendary fashion photographer was the key component to the successful collection of Frida Giannini. She referenced an era of the 1970's when Yves St. Laurent reigned as the king of fashion and when glamour prevailed. The Gucci women is sexy with immense provocation while maintaining great sophistication. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Raquel Zimmermann for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Joan Smalls for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Snejana Onopka for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen For Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Julia S. for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Chanel Iman for Gucci S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karmen Pedaru for Gucci S/S 11

Marc Jacobs S/S 2011

2010-09-16T00:54:00.000-07:00

A celebration of 1970's glamour motivates Marc Jacobs. American designer Marc Jacobs presented a collection that was a celebration of everything that made him fall in love with fashion in the 1970's. He had numerous references such as the late legendary Yves St. Laurent, American designer Calvin Klein, illustrator Anthony Lopez and the NY dolls just to name a few. One might also think of the teenage prostitute Iris from the Martin Scorsese film, Taxi Driver. The character Iris, in the film, had the curly hair with a great selection of high waist shorts, knit tops and wide brim hats that were similar to the runway pieces. This collection was a complete flashback and homage to all that was great in the 1970's. A departure from last season's neutral colored collection this time around it was all about color. The color palette consisted of mauve, pink, deep lilac, peach, tobacco, gold, beige, plum and light orange. The collection included flouncy Rive Gauche peasant dresses, relaxed full skirts and printed shirt dresses. There was also a channeling of Missoni knitwear pieces and tailored pant suits. The Marc Jacobs look is sexy with an immense 1970's glamour

The show was held at the historic Lexington Armory with an enormous round gold cylinder centerpiece. French runway DJ Frederic Sanchez provided the soundtrack and played Vivaldi's “Summer,” from the “Four Seasons.” German model Luisa Bianchin opened the event in a orange print coat paired with plum gaucho pants. There was 1970's sexy pieces like the halter dresses, hot pants and jumpsuits with thigh high slits. A Studio 54 sensation was evident in chiffon skirts and dress that were see through. The wide brim hats and the leather pieces cinched around the hips gave a nice added touch to various pieces.

Admired pieces in the collection were the Rive Gauche peasant dresses and the sexy halter dresses. The 1970's Missoni inspired zig-zag knitwear pieces and the duchess satin tailored pants suits were also very appealing.

Marc Jacobs celebrated everything in the 1970's that made him fall in love with fashion. He created a collection with all the essential pieces perfect for a modern day Jade Jagger. Jacobs shows great innovation with this collection and gives a reason for everyone to get excited about New York Fashion Week. The Marc Jacobs women is confident with a 1970's glamorous attitude. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Luisa Bianchin for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kirsi Pyrhonen for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Joan Smalls for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jac for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Olga Sherer for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jacquelyn Jablonski for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Hannah Holman for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Ginta Lapina for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Pauline Van der Cruysse for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jamie Bochert for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Hind Sahli for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Marc Jacobs S/S 11

Carolina Herrera S/S 2011

2010-09-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Traditional clothes from Asia inspires Carolina Herrera. American designer Carolina Herrera was inspired this season from the traditional attire from Korea. This idea gave inspirations for the cuts and the details in the collection. The sophisticated Herrera tailoring was combined with Asian inspired folds to create a chic daytime look. Double Korean bows replaced the typical grosgrain ribbon on a number of pieces. The idea also motivated her to add straw hats, on a various looks, similar to what the traditional farmers would wear while working in the rice patty fields.. Another inspiration was the bold flower prints that came from the 18th century botanical plates. Various cocktail pieces, skirts, blouses and evening gowns had the unique botanical prints. The color palette had a botanical twist with floral pink, white, beige, stem green and lotus. Herrera's signature uptown style had a unique Asian influence but maintained a chic elegant attitude. The Carolina Herrera look is elegant with Park Avenue sophistication.

The show was held at theater in the Lincoln center show space with a simple runway setting. Polish model Magdalena Frackowiak opened the event in a white wrap shirt with acetate belt paired with a black wide brim straw hat. There was plenty of daytime sophisticated pieces like the signature Herrera crisp white blouse, over the knee pencil skirts and relaxed trousers. It was all about pure elegance in the cocktail and evening pieces with full ballgowns and ladylike dresses. There was other practical pieces fit for everyday wear for the typical Park Avenue princess.

The admired piece in the collection was the finale ball gown in ivory floral print with touches of a black Korean sash. The cocktail dresses hem lines that ended just below the knee had exceptional elegance.

Carolina Herrera displayed her master craftsmanship with this collection inspired by traditional Korean clothes. After being in the business for 25 years there are no signs that this celebrated designer is going anywhere. The next spring the Carolina Herrera women will have exceptional elegance with a sophisticated Asian flare. -Brent Billiman, New York City. USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Arlenis Sosa for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Marcelia Freesz for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Edita Vilkeviciute for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Olga Sherer for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Hanne Gaby Odiele for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Toni Garrn for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lisanne De Jong for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Siri Tollerod for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Irina Kulikova for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Carolina Herrera S/S 11

Derek Lam S/S 2011

2010-09-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

California dreaming at Derek Lam. American designer Derek Lam was inspired from his home state of California this season. With that idea he created a collection that had a soft color palette filled with numerous silhouettes. The color palette consisted of chrome, seaweed green, yellow, black, white and denim blue. A nice array of abstract and snake skin prints were visible on a few pieces. The look was extremely relaxed and perfect for the California women in her natural habitat of work, party and play. There was great number of long flowing dresses that had a dreamy sensation with a hint of retro 1970's. He offered a great variation of pieces such as trousers, shorts, skirts, tunics, dresses and evening pieces. Denim made its mark on a few jackets, trousers, a suit and a dress giving a nod to the a relaxed California attitude. The Derek Lam look is modern with a carefree attitude and style.

The show was held at the Lincoln Center in a simple runway venue. Dutch model Mirte Maas opened the event in a denim double breasted jacket that was paired with a matching denim v-neck dress and a navy shirt. Denim was seen in the first part of the show that was available in a casual simplistic way in trousers, jackets and a suit. There was also short and long flowing dresses in ivory linen that added a romantic sensation recalling the 1970's. A lot of the pieces had very clean crisp lines and also had a relaxed free flowing sensation.

Admired pieces in the collection were the free flowing evening pieces that came in unique abstract prints available in abstract colors and snake print. The relaxed a-line dresses and skirts were also appealing and came in soft colors.

A relaxed California attitude inspired Derek Lam to create a minimalist and simple collection that works for perfect for a day in the office, lunch dates and parties. The Derek Lam women is modern with a relaxed attitude. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Mirte Maas for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karmen Pedaru for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kori Richardson for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Maryna Linchuk for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Behati Prinsloo for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Edita Vilkeviciute for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Simone for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Hanne Gaby Odiele for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for Derek Lam S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jac for Derek Lam S/S 11

Alexander Wang S/S 2011

2010-09-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

White is the new black at Alexander Wang. American designer Alexander Wang presented a collection without his downtown chic trademark color, black. This time around his goal was to create a look that was upbeat with a puristic quality while maintaining a edgy cool attitude. The predominate color in the collection was white and lighter pastel colors with splashes of turquoise, copper, silver and terracotta.This collection has great sportswear influences that is revamped to look edgy and entirely innovative. The silhouette of the maxi dresses were long and loose with a relaxed causal attitude. The trademark Wang deconstructing was clearly visible. On the mesh bra, jackets, leggings, shirts and dresses they were manipulated to look edgy. They were folded, stretched, rouched and cut to look highly contemporary with a futuristic sensation. It was all about layering in the styling of every look that was presented. V-neck silk dresses with open seams exposed a vest and sporty undergarments. A t-style dress was layered with a shorter dress and paired with cuffed track pants. The look was very carefree and casual with a downtown chic attitude. The Alexander Wang look was soft and romantic while maintaining an edgy impression.

The show was held at the Pier 94 simple white show space on the west side highway overlooking the Hudson River. The staging was impressive with a 50 foot backdrop of a inflatable fixture hovering above the white backdrop. Paris runway DJ Frederic Sanchez provided the soundtrack for the show. American model Britt opened the show in a long white silk maxi dress with cutouts layered with a style dress paired with gray opened toed platform wedges. There was a great number of long and loose silhouette dresses that fell to the ankles and were available in different variations of dungaree and t-style strap. A nice casual attitude was perceptible in the loose knitted tops and the long cardigans. Wang also presented a graffiti print style of lighter hues of splatters and scribbles added to a few pieces in the finale section of the show. Hints of metallic fabrics added a futuristic touch to various pieces.

Admired pieces in the collection were the beautiful white silk trenches and the jackets that came in white, silver and metallic mint. The graffiti style print in the maxi dresses and prints were also very appealing.

Alexander Wang has proved that he is a true innovator with this collection. Having optimism and injecting purity to his collection was the key to his success. The Alexander Wang women has romantic quality but still maintains a street style edge. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Aggyness Deyn for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Hanne Gaby Odiele for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Britt for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jac for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kamila Filipcikova for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anna Jagodzinska for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Julija Steponaviciutefor Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karmen Pedaru for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Valerija Kelava for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karen Elson for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Alexander Wang S/S 11

Jason Wu S/S 2011

2010-09-11T17:00:00.000-07:00

Contemporary art motives Jason Wu. American designer Jason Wu was inspired this season by Brazilian artist Beatriz Mihazes and French fashion illustrator Rene Gruau. The bright palettes from the from their paintings and illustrations influenced the colors and the movement of the fabrics into the collection. It was almost like a Europe meets Brazil sensation with bright Brazilian colors and a Parisian style. The daywear pieces had a 1970's style with impeccable tailoring recalling the late Yves Saint Laurent. Spring was in the air with a floral sensation in the floral pencil skirts and strapless party dresses with handmade floral appliques. Skirts and blouses came in the Beatriz print offered in colors of violet and bright pink Long wide-legged trousers and long blazers added a strong confident attitude to the collection. The Jason Wu look is sexy and portrays confidence.

The show was held in Soho on Mercer Street in a show space with a metallic blue tile runway and a faux building backdrop. American model Joan Smalls opened the show in a white transparent organza blouse with a wide bow at the neck paired with beige flared trousers. The look was all about confidence with long tailored blazers offered in black, white and light gray tweed. The daywear pieces were incredible with cocktail party numbers, tailored suits paired with organza blouses and simple elegant dresses. The showstopping pieces were the silk chiffon gowns that came in black, bright pink and blue.

The admired piece in the collection was the finale dress that came in hot pink that was bias-cut with a nice dose of ruffles. Other appealing pieces was the lean cut trousers offered in various colors and the blazers that were long enough to work as a dress .

Jason Wu added a nice dose of sex appeal to this collection inspired by the Brazilian fantasy of art and the illustrations of French fashion. He showed great versatility with this collection and has clearly established himself as a great American fashion designer. The Jason Wu women is sexy with a Brazilian attitude and a Parisian flare. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA

Stan Honda Photo: Model Toni Garrn for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Nimue Smit for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Joan Smalls for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ruby Aldridge for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Caroline Brasch Nielsen for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Fei Fei Sun for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Patricia van der Vliet for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Rose Cordero for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Liu Wen for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alana Zimmer for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ginta Lapina for Jason Wu S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Jason Wu S/S 11

Christian Siriano S/S 2011

2010-09-10T01:26:00.000-07:00

Ethnic Inspiration at Christian Siriano. American fashion designer Christian Siriano was inspired this season from the ethnic influences from East Asia, Africa and India. His daywear instilled an exotic sensation with his own take on American sportswear with an ethnic twist. There was plenty of wearable pieces that would be practical for the office, social lunches and a night out on the town. The ethnic idea was perceptible in the safari jackets, and the embossed ethnic prints. Among the beautiful daywear pieces were the signature Siriano evening gowns that had an appealing silhouette with plenty of ruffles. The color palette was very subtle in the daywear pieces with the the a predominate color of white and camel with a hint of pink, turquoise, gold and metallic silver. The evening pieces had a nice splash of color of crimson red, turquoise and coral. The Christian Siriano look is very feminine and chic with an exotic spring sentiment.

The show was held at the new uptown show space in Lincoln Center with a backdrop that resembled a giant stone wall. American model Sessilee Lopez opened the show in a camel leather jacket that was paired with white trousers. There was different variations of cuts and styles that were offered in the daywear pieces that mostly came in white but was also available in camel, metallic silver and pink. Camel leather was visible in the jackets, belt, a skirt and in a dress. The ethnic prints were seen on the daywear pieces and on a few gowns.

The admired pieces in the collection were the signature ruffled Siriano gowns that was offered in crimson red and nude. Daywear dresses that came in the beautiful turquoise and coral ethnic prints were also appealing.

Christian Siriano was inspired by the ethnic influences of exotic countries of East Asia India and Africa. He added his signature design and interpreted his own take on American sportswear with an ethnic influence. The Christian Siriano women is feminine and ready for a safari adventure this next spring season. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anastasia Krivosheeva for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sessilee Lopez for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anastasia K for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Caroline Francischini for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Yulia for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Leigh Pendley for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lea for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anastasiya Karter for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Polina Barbasova for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anna Iaryn for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anastasia K for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anastasia Krivosheeva for Christian Siriano S/S 11

Models to Watch S/S 2011

2010-09-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

This show season there is a tremendous cast of models to watch with a great selection of established girls, rising stars and new emerging talent. These models will be walking the runways in New York, Milan and Paris. The agency with the most prevalent models is Next Model Management with powerhouse girls like Karlie Kloss, Abbey Lee Kershaw and Anja Rubik. Expect to see all of the following girls ruling the catwalks this upcoming show season. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA

Model Karlie Kloss/ Next

Model Abbey Lee Kershaw/ Next

Model Anja Rubik/ Next

Model Magdalena Frackowiak/ DNA

Model Jessica Clarke/ DNA

Model Edita Vilkeviciute/ DNA

Model Eniko Mihalik/ Marilyn

Model Liu Wen/ Marilyn

Model Tanya Dyagileva/ Marilyn

Model Emina Cunmulaj/ Muse

Model Jacquelyn Jablonski/ Supreme

Model Bruna Tenorio/ Women

Model Ginta Lapina/ Women

Model Natasha Poly/ Women

Model Ali Stephens/ Elite

Model Coco Rocha/ Elite

Behind the Lens: Fashion Photographer Milan Vukmirovic

2010-08-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

French fashion photographer Milan Vukmirovic is the most influential photographer in the fashion industry today. His editorial work is extraordinary with creative images that evoke a fantasy of fashion and beauty. He has a distinguished eye for fashion and transpires his idea into the images. Majority of his work involves men's fashion and the love of male beauty. He shoots the main editorials for prestigious menswear magazine, L'Officiel Hommes. His other work includes shooting campaigns for labels such as Hugo Boss, Armani, Trussardi and Lacoste.

Along with his photo skills Vukmirovic is also the creative director for Italian leather label Trussardi. He is also the editor in chief of the quarterly magazine L'Officiel Hommes. As a businessman he helped establish Parisian store Colette and his own store, Webster, in Miami.

Vukmirovic has worked with the top models such as Simon Nessman, Jean Carlos Santos, David Gandy, Gen Huismans, Jonas Mason, Clement Chabernaud, Nils Butler, Max Motta, Arthur Sales, Andres Velencoso Segura, Ryan Kennedy, Marlon Teixeira, Vladimir Ivanov, Garrett Neff, Julia Stegner, Marlena Szoka, Angela Lindvall and Iris Strubegger.

Milan Vukmirovic has tremendous talent that is evident in his work in the international editions of L'Officiel Hommes. A magazine that he has substantial influence and shapes to his vision of fashion and beauty. Expect to see more of his work in the upcoming editions of L'Officiel Hommes.
-Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Photo courtesy of Milan Vukmirovic

Vogue Nippon Fashion Editor/Stylist: Aurora Sansone

2010-08-11T06:43:00.000-07:00

Italian Fashion Editor/Stylist Aurora Sansone has clearly made a name for herself as a International fashion force with her work in the pages of Japanese Vogue (Nippon). It is clear that she has a great eye for fashion by infusing a quirky and edgy style that appeals to the vibrant Japanese publication. Her editorial work has the Sansone aesthetic with a variety of textures, materials and color. There is also a hint of a masculine sensation that resonates in her styling to give the idea of a strong women.

Sansone started her career by working as a intern with Vogue Nippon's Fashion Director at Large, Anna Dello Russo. She had great admiration for Dello Russo and it was her dream to work with a incredible fashion icon. While working under Dello Russo she displayed great talent and ventured into styling and editorial work. The editor in Chief of Vogue Nippon, Mistuko Watanabe, had also noticed potential in her work.

Sansone has been contributing to Vogue Nippon since 2008. She has worked with many prestigious photographers such as Paolo Kudacki, Matt Irwin, Laura Sciacovelli, David Mushegain, Josh Olins and Mariano Vivanco.

Aurora Sansone has tremendous talent that reflects on the pages of Vogue Nippon. Expect to see more of her impressive work in future issues in the Japanese publication. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Trendycrew photo: Fashion Editor/Stylist Aurora Sansone

Trendycrew photo: Fashion Editor/Stylist Aurora Sansone

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Photo: Courtesy of Vogue Nippon

Male Model of the Season: Nicolas Ripoll

2010-07-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

The Male Model of the season is Nicolas Ripoll who has had a stellar show season. He is from Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina. Ripoll has continued great success after his debut season in the fall of 2009. This season he walked in almost every major show making him the most prestigious male model in Milan and Paris.

Ripoll was discovered in Argentina by Civiles Modeling Agency in Buenos Aires where he was a student studying photography. He is currently managed by DNA in New York, Bananas in Paris and Why Not in Milan. After his discovery in Argentina, he was booked as an exclusive for the Prada show in Fall 2009 where he opened and closed the event. After the Prada debut his career took off with great success with abundant editorial work with Vogue Homme Japan, Dapper Dan Magazine, Citizen K Magazine, GQ Italy, Velvet Magazine, Wallpaper Magazine, 10 Magazine, Dazed & Confused, Contributing Editor, Arena Homme and Hercules Magazine.

Nicolas Ripoll is the new sensation in men's fashion and expect to see more of him in the future. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Photos: Courtesy of DNA Model Management and Stan Honda

Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

2010-07-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

A lion motivates Chanel Haute Couture . German couturier Karl Lagerfeld was inspired this season by the late Coco Chanel's zodiac sign, Leo the Lion. With that idea he presented a collection that would be perfect for modern day royalty. He offered a modern take on 1970's inspired pieces that was infused with something that was out of a folkloric tale with a hint of medieval. Fitted boleros and small shouldered jackets that were short falling just below the bust line were paired with dresses and skirts. The skirt lengths came right at the knee or mid-calf. The classic Chanel tweed suits and dresses in some cases had detail linings of fur on the collars and sleeves. The color palette had an immense variety in the collection with royal colors that stood out this season. The royal colors that were prevalent were wine red, loden, imperial blue, lapis and gold. The signature Chanel black was not present this time around and the alternative color offered was imperial blue. The most important thing about the collection was the impeccable details completed by the Chanel atelier with the amazing hand work completed on the embroidery, appliques and the precise cuts. The Chanel Haute Couture look is opulent with a love for the luxury of life.

The show was held at the Grand Palais show space with a massive 40 foot gold lion that is a replica of a little bronze statue in the Coco Chanel apartment on Rue Cambon. Under the left paw of the gold lion was a giant pearl that the models emerged from. Russian Supermodel Natasha Poly opened the show in a wine red tailored wool suit that was paired with gold slouchy high heeled boots. The classic Chanel tailored suits were extremely fitted offered in wool, tweed and sequined fabrics. Opulent cocktail pieces had handmade flowers from bugle beads and embroidery that clearly showed the immense work from the atelier.

Admired pieces in the collection were the evening wear with the incredible embroidery. One look in particular was a imperial blue sequin dress with gold detailing. There were many pieces that were extremely appealing and one of the strongest collections on behalf of the Chanel atelier team. There was an immense amount of details with hand embroidery and bead work appliques in the flowers.

Karl Lagerfeld inspiration came from Leo the Lion from the late Coco Chanel's zodiac sign that successfully created a royal collection. Every pieces in the collection displayed a great amount of love for luxury. This works perfect for the actual clients this upcoming winter season because its wearable, warm and elegant. The Chanel Haute Couture woman is opulent with a great love for luxury in the highest level of fashion. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Magdalena Frakowiak for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Samantha Gradoville for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Liu Wen for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Michaela Kocianova for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Bianca Balti for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Caroline Brasch Nielsen for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Aline Weber for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Mirte Maas for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Barbora Dvorakova for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Models Iris Strubegger and Baptiste Giabiconi for Chanel Haute Couture F/W 2010

Giorgio Armani Prive F/W 2010

2010-07-08T04:35:00.000-07:00

The luxurious appeal of Amber at Armani Prive. Italian couturier Giorgio Armani presented a Haute Couture collection that was inspired by the beautiful gemstone Amber. This fossilized stone encouraged the monochrome color palette of gold, caramel, chocolate and beige. The trademark Armani appeal was clear with the signature silhouettes and precise Italian tailoring. The Haute Couture quality was incredible in the folds in the fabric, immaculate hand bead work and embroidery. The opulence was subtle in photographic images but up close it was evident that the exquisite work and detailing was prevalent in every piece. Tweed suits shimmered with delicate gold and silver thread while glistening crystal and sequin embroidery infused drama into the evening gowns. The collection was completely wearable with pieces from modern day suits, coats, classic cocktail dresses and opulent evening gowns. The Armani Prive look was classic glamor with a modern Haute Couture edge.

The show was held in a former bank in the Place Vendome with a slick beige metallic runway that was narrow and dark. Estonian Supermodel Carmen Kass opened the show in a beige tailored day suit paired with a sharp shouldered cape. Armani offered a great amount of tailored suits available in tweed with incredible cuts that shaped the body. Silk cocktail dresses were sleek and the folds and tailoring gave it a nice flowing movement. The evening dresses were dramatic in Mikado satin and beautiful silk with hand beaded detailing in various cuts.

Admired pieces in the collection were the opulent evening gowns with hand beading and one particular was a beige sharp high shouldered gown with impeccable metallic hand beading. A sleeveless wool jumpsuit with a draped front was different and extremely beautiful.

Giorgio Armani presented a Haute Couture collection that sparkled like Amber and had complimenting colors of this gorgeous gemstone. It had the essential trademark Italian Armani tailoring with a classic style infused with a modern edge. The Armani Prive woman is sophisticated and will glisten like a beautiful amber gemstone. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Carmen Kass for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jac for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Denisa Dvorakova for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anabela Belikova for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Carmen Kass for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anabela Belikova for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Yulia Kharlaponova for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Armani Prive F/W 2010

Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

2010-07-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

A floral obsession at Christian Dior. British couturier John Galliano presented a beautiful floral dream at the Christian Dior Haute Couture show in Paris. This season he was inspired by the late Christian Dior's childhood home, “Les Rhumbs,” located in Granville, Normandy. Les Rhumbs is a beautiful cliff top garden filled with a breathtaking floral fantasy. The vivid floral fantasy were similar to the colors in nature like sunflower yellow, turquoise, lilac purple and rose. The flowers that were visible in this bouquet were poppies, crocuses, sweet peas, orchids, tulips, pansy and orchids. Skirts were manipulated to resemble a parrot tulip and a pansy was hand painted onto a ball gown. Galliano was also inspired by photographers Irving Penn and Nick Knight floral portraits that influenced the colors and the flowers that were visible in the collection. It also seemed that there was a reference to Christian Dior's 1953 spring collection that was titled, “tulip line” in the floral prints of delphiniums and lilacs that were painted on fabrics. It was obvious that Galliano was having a floral moment and this was his dream. The Christian Dior look is fresh as a daisy with the proper elegance of Haute Couture.

The show was held at rue de Verenne at the Musee Rodin in see through stage tent that displayed the outdoor gardens filled with baby pink roses and beautiful statues. A huge orange floral arrangement decorated the backdrop of the runway. American Supermodel Karlie Kloss opened the show in a lilac purple coat adorned with a petals around the collar that was paired with red leather gloves and a clear purple bulb shaped hairpiece. On various models the towering bulb shaped hairdo were encased with a cellophane wrapped hairpiece, like an upside down bouquet, created by London milliner Stephen Jones. Mohair and boucle dresses resembled the wildflowers in a field that are ready to bloom. Jackets were decorated with silk hydrangeas and dresses had beautiful hand painted floral prints.

Admired pieces in the collection were the ball gowns and the coats. The ball gowns are what Christian Dior have been known for and the hand painted delphiniums and lilacs dresses were extremely appealing. The coats were amazing and had the Haute quality with nice selection of vivid colors.

John Galliano referenced the house of Dior and inspiration from the childhood home garden of the late Christian Dior to create this successful collection. This collection had the Dior drama but was completely wearable and elegant. The Christian Dior Haute Couture women elegant and ready to be a flower in Dior's garden. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lais Ribeiro for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Georgina Stojiljkovic for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Christian Dior Haute Couture F/W 2010

Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

2010-07-02T00:29:00.000-07:00

A Moroccan spirit influences Jean Paul Gaultier. French fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier was inspired from the late legendary French couturier Yves Saint Laurent. The era in particular that was referenced was the 1970's when Saint Laurent spent a tremendous amount of time at his second home in Marrakesh, Morocco. While spending time there he was greatly influenced by traditional Moroccan dressing. With this idea in the collection there was a tremendous amounts of fabrics visible in the generous fitted tunics and sleeveless caftans. There was a mix of Moroccan inspired pieces paired with tailored suits and worn over a typical shirt and tie. It was a concoction of Saint Laurent's personal style from the 1970's and Gaultier personal touch. Pieces in the collection has this masculine touch exterior but maintained a gentle nature and something similar to the late legendary designer. The Jean Paul Gaultier look was dynamic and ready to travel anywhere in the world

The show was held at the company's headquarters show space on Rue Saint-Martin in Paris with a backdrop resembling a Hammam Middle Eastern spa with shirtless models relaxing in the background. The show opened with a black long Moroccan inspired tunic worn over a cotton shirt and tie paired with black trousers. Gaultier always presents something new and added his own personal touch with the 1970's three-dimensional print on a tunic, pants and underwear. He also referenced abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock with the white splatter paintings that were visible on the tunics, trousers and hand bags.

Admired pieces in the collection were the tunics, black trousers and handbags that had the Jackson Pollock white paint splatters. The Moroccan style tunic and caftan pieces were also very appealing and made this collection cohesive with this inspiration.

Jean Paul Gaultier referenced the late legendary Yves Saint Laurent's elegance and the way he dressed in the 1970's. There was also that special Gaultier twist in the three-dimensional and Jackson Pollock reference. The Jean Paul Gaultier man is ready to live a jet set life style and take nice holiday to Morocco. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Jean Paul Gaultier S/S 2011

Versace S/S 2011

2010-07-01T15:55:00.000-07:00

Contemporary bad boy at Versace. Italian designer Donatella Versace and British designer Martyn Bal created a collection that was inspired by the rockabilly boys from the 1950's. This idea came from photos taken from the famed American fashion photographer Bruce Weber. Versace had moved in a completely new direction this season with the debut of Bal who assisted Versace this season. Everything was different from the fabrics and the method of cuts in the clothes, The cuts were made for a leaner fit with rock inspired tuxedo pieces and a slim fit motorcycle jacket. They offered skinny pants that were taut at the ankles and short jackets referencing the 1960's. This lean cut also referenced similar work from when Bal was employed with Dior Homme. This particular collection appeals to a much younger clientele with its rebellious rocker sensation. The Versace look this season was rocker chic with the trademark Versace sex appeal.

The show was held in the south of Milan at the customized Versace theater with a gray and white Vorticist pattern visible on the backdrop and runway. The show opened with a slim cutaway tuxedo with a crossover closing that was paired with a two tone British inspired rocker shoes. The rockabilly idea was evident in the skinny pants, the slim cut rock band tuxedo pieces and the short jackets. The sheeny tonic fabric selection was visible in the jackets and trousers. The rock and roll sensation was prevalent in the slim fit motorcycle jacket and leather pants.

Admired pieces in the collection were the slim cut tuxedo pieces, slim cut pants and the silk shirts in a graphic Vorticist pattern. The silk robes and swimsuits were also very appealing and perfect for the next spring and summer season.

Donatella Versace with the help of Martyn Bal has successfully created a collection that was inspired form the rockabilly boys from the 1960's infused with the Versace trademark sex appeal. Bal has infused a fresh perspective into the collection that now appeals to a younger clientele. The Versace man is a rebellious rocker with a generous dose of sex appeal.. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Versace S/S 2011

Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

2010-06-29T02:44:00.000-07:00

Sicilian sensuality at Dolce & Gabbana. Italian designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana gave a nod to traditional Sicilian heritage of tailoring. This season they went back to their roots of classic Sicilian inspired pieces to celebrate the 20th anniversary of menswear for the label. With that idea they offered Sicilian inspired caps, fisherman sandals and a relaxed white workers shirt. There was also the classic pieces from the label such as a three piece suit available in white linen and structured black. Their trademark sensuality was evident in the knit pieces, tank tops and the distressed jeans. The simple color palette consisted of white, beige,sand and black. The look for the collection was all about being comfortable and relaxed.

The show was held at Milan's city hall, the Palazzo Marino with a simple draped backdrop. Music was live from Scottish recording artist Annie Lennox who sang her pop hit, “There Must Be An Angel.” French model Adam Senn opened the show in a classic Dolce & Gabbana tailored white suit. The whole idea for the collection was comfort and obvious in the muslin cotton, washed silk and interwoven jute shirts and sweaters. Every piece in the collection was very light and perfect pieces for the next summer season.

Admired pieces in the collection were the extra light silk sweaters that looked amazing and comfortable. The interwoven leather bags were also remarkable and inspired by the farmers in the South of Italy.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana went back to their humble roots of Sicilian traditional tailoring and put a modern twist on it. This collection was incredibly comfortable and relaxing. The Dolce & Gabbana man is carefree and ready to relax this next Spring and Summer season. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Terron Wood for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model Enrique Pelacios for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2011

Costume National S/S 2011

2010-06-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

Traditional Italian tailoring and innovation stimulates Costume National. Italian designer Ennio Capasa experimented with innovative ideas bringing traditional Italian tailoring into the future. The innovative method known as thermo welding gave incredible results similar to the hand work of a couturier. The laser cuts were completely precise giving a uncut and flawless look displaying no visible seams. The experimentation was also evident in the fabric selection when combined a structured wool material with light flowing silk creating something similar to nylon. Structured and light fabrics were merged together to create pieces that were strong maintaining an easy going sensation. The color palette was neutral with colors of cream, gray, beige, black and nude. Lime and light rose was the only splash of color that was visible in the transparent tops. The Costume National look was exceptionally tailored with classic and innovative elements.

The show was held in Milan at 58 Via Tortona show space in a simple setting with all the attention focused on the collection. The opening look was a beige slim tailored jacket paired with matching trousers and a lime translucent top. The tailored jackets were chic offered in single and double breasted variations with hidden buttons and zippers. Jackets were simple and structured with a nice blend of light wool and silk making it a perfect for the next spring and summer season. The shirts very relaxed and light offered in organza and jersey worn under a jacket.

Admired pieces in the collection were the tailored jackets and one in particular was a white tuxedo jacket in satin with laser cut hems. The formal overcoats were exquisite and completely form fitting with immense detailing of hidden buttons and zippers.

Ennio Capasa collection was entirely innovative bringing Italian tailoring into the future with exquisite pieces perfect for the next spring and summer season. Every piece offered in the collection was chic and comfortable. The Costume National man has a great appreciation of exceptional tailoring and quality. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Costume National S/S 2011

Male Models to Watch S/S 2011

2010-06-18T21:59:00.000-07:00

The Men's Spring/ Summer 2011 Fashion season is here and there is a great number of new face models and rising stars participating in this event. The new face models have alot of potential and the caliber to open and close any coveted show in MIlan and Paris. Also among the cast is the in demand superstar that have become icons in the fashion industry. The following models are a casting directors dream pick and will cause a great sensation in Milan and Paris this season. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Andy Richardson/ Why Not Models

Adam Senn/ Why Not Models

David Gandy/ Why Not Models

Simon Nessman/ I love Models
Ryan Kennedy/ I love Models

Jon Kortajarena/ I love Models

Robbie Wadge/ Nathalie

Douglas Neitzke/ Nathalie

Nicolas Ripoll/ Bananas

Lyden/ Bananas

James Roffey/ Bananas

Ash/ New Madison

Julien Quevenne/ New Madison

Jeremy Dufour/ New Madison

Arthur Sales/ New Madison

Alex Dunstan/ New Madison

Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 2011

2010-06-16T01:39:00.000-07:00

Alexandre Herchcovitch interprets art into fashion. Prominent Brazilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch was inspired by the American abstract painters that motivated his colorful collection. He referenced the late artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman whom were all major figures in the abstract expressionist movement in North America. With this idea the collection was all about a variety of colors that were subtle, bright and metallic. Every piece had a considerable amount of fabric that was pleated, clipped and framed to create volume. This accentuated the breast, shoulders and hips infusing an avant-garde sensation into every look. Several pieces had subtle basic monochrome colors and there were some pieces that had a geometrical explosion of bright colors of mint green, splash pink and turquoise similar to the work of an abstract expressionist painter. The Alexandre Herchcovitch look is entirely different with unique qualities.

The show was held at the Ibirapuera Park in Sao Paulo and the backdrop of the runway was cedar wood. The opening look was an orange neutral colored dress with a hint of volume accentuating the breast, shoulders and hips. That dress was paired with a matching pair of platform pumps and orange leather gloves. Various pieces had subtle hints of volume while other pieces had an enormous amount around the shoulders and hips. Pants were exceptionally fitted and tailored offered in turquoise, beige and metallic purple. A splash of bright colors was visible geometric patterns on a number of dresses and shirts.

Admired pieces in the collection were the metallic dresses that came in beautiful colors of baby blue, teal green and beige. Another exquisite piece was a black one shouldered silk dress.

Alexandre Herchcovitch offers a collection that is completely different and one of a kind in Sao Paulo. He offers an innovative touch to this collection with inspiration from the great late American abstract painters. The Alexandre Herchcovitch woman is unique and will definitely stand out in a crowd. –Brent Billiman, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Alexandre Herchcovitch S/S 11

Iodice S/S 2011

2010-06-15T02:45:00.000-07:00

The idea of a fictional resort motives Iodice. Brazilian designer Valdemar Iodice was inspired this season with the fantasy of going on a holiday to a dream resort. With no particular destination in mind the location could be anywhere, the customer makes that decision. He offered a great number of dresses and skirt that came in basic colors of white, black and navy. Exceptional tailoring and precise laser cutting was visible on a variety of pieces. The laser cut indentations were applied on the dresses, skirts, leather jackets and sandals. There was also a nod to the nautical navy idea with the navy striped shirts and dresses gave the sense of relaxing on a yacht looking incredibly chic. Everything was exceptional and exactly what keeps the Iodice customers returning every season. The Iodice look is incredibly relaxed with and understated elegance and ready for a holiday to a dream destination.

The show was held in the Jardins neighborhood of Sao Paulo at the posh Iguatemi Sao Paulo shopping mall. The show opened with a short black cotton dress with laser indentations on the entire outfit that was paired with leather laser indented platform sandals. The laser cut indentions were applied to pieces such as a leather jacket, skirts, dresses and the platform sandals. Jumpsuits, mini-skirts and shirts came in a stunning flowing silk in wonderful colors of plum, navy, yellow and cream white. The silhouettes for every piece were obviously cut for a sexy Brazilian body.

Admired pieces in the collection were the beautiful flowing silk one shouldered dresses that were offered in plum and navy. The laser cut cotton dresses that came in black and white were also very appealing to the customers. Everything in the collection was tremendously appealing with a nice fabric selection and maintained a pleasant understated elegance.

Valdemar Iodice displayed a collection that was perfect for a nice holiday getaway or just an ordinary walk in the park. Every piece looked exceptionally comfortable while maintaining a confident chic appeal. The Iodice women is ready is for that resort holiday getaway while remaining sophisticated. –Brent Billiman, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Bruna Tenorio for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lais Rebeiro for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Iodice S/S 11

Cia Maritima S/S 2011

2010-06-12T02:37:00.000-07:00

A journey into the Middle East at Cia Maritima. Brazilian designer Benny Rosset was greatly influenced from the Middle Eastern desert this season. The inspiration actually came from an Arabian folk tale book, “One Thousand and One Nights.” The fantasy and splendor from the folk tale influenced the collection and worked perfectly for the modern day women ready to take a journey to the Middle East. The ideas were visible on the stunning variety of exotic desert prints that were offered in the swimsuits caftans and tunics. The Saharan color palette of water green, bright yellow, lilac, nude and military green dominated the collection. On a selection of pieces there was the Arabian sentiment with appliqués of jewels and gold coins. The bikini and bathing suits are tremendously stunning with the incredible cuts that compliment the feminine figure. The Cia Maritima look is pleasurable and ready for a journey into the Middle Eastern paradise.

The show was held in a beautiful show space with Arabian style gold background with visible stars in the design. Brazilian Supermodel Isabeli Fontana opened the show in a coral print bikini paired with a gold necklace and bracelets with a beige platform heels. There was a great selection of bikini’s and bathing suits came in a wide range of cuts and styles that would flatter the perfect feminine figure. Caftans and tunics were offered in a nice selection of Saharan prints that would work perfect for a nice day by the beach. The collection was tremendously sensual but also maintained a sense of discreet elegance with the gold appliqués and vibrant colors.

Admired pieces in the collection were the lycra and jersey bikinis and bathing suits that came in beautiful Saharan prints and flattering cuts. Caftans offered in lilac and a lilac print was remarkable and stunning.

Benny Rosset proves to us that Brazil is definitely the best place in the world to acquire swimwear. Innovative prints and sexy cuts that compliment the feminine figure is the key component for his success. With this collection he inspires the Cia Maritima customer to take a nice holiday to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The Cia Maritima woman is sexy and ready for her next adventure into the Middle East. –Brent Billiman, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Isabeli Fontana for Cia Maritima S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Cia Maritima SS 11

Rosa Cha S/S 2011

2010-06-11T05:45:00.000-07:00

Rosa Cha offers a nice dose of Brazilian sex appeal in Sao Paulo. Brazilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch kicked off the start of Sao Paulo fashion week with a collection that was inspired from modern ballet and the sexy pin-up girls from the 1940’s. The ballet aspect was obvious in the free flowing sensation and the cuts that were visible on the fabrics. The one piece bathing suit with the structured bras channeled the 1940’s. These two inspirations were united giving each piece a fashion forward consciousness with the trademark bright Brazilian colors and sexy cuts. Only a true Brazilian, like Herchcovitch, could accomplish this distinctive design plan. He injected a versatile impression into every piece of clothing such as beachwear transitioning into outerwear. The idea of transition is the Rosa Cha brand DNA that started from the label founder Amir Slama. The Rosa Cha look is obviously sexy and will take a woman to the beach and follow her to a night out for some fun.

The show was held in the beautiful city of Sao Paulo in a show space with a live rock band playing subtle rock music at the background of the runway. Brazilian model Lais Ribeiro opened the show in a cream colored 1940’s style mini dress with beautiful embroidery that was paired with black strapped platform heels. A great variety of dresses were offered in all possible lengths from the typical short styles to the long flowing dresses. The most common fabrics used were sheer and transparent giving it a 1940’s sex appeal with a structured bra. The prints that were applied were the vibrant Brazilian colors giving the clothes a unique sensation.

Admired pieces in the collection were the short and dresses with the beautiful bright Brazilian prints that were exceptionally distinctive. The short swimsuit dresses were alluring due to the idea that it could take you to the beach during the day and directly to a night of fun.

Alexandre Herchcovitch displayed a true Brazilian collection with the nice dose of Brazilian sex appeal with beautiful vibrant colors. This collection is completely sexy but maintains that carefree beachwear feeling. After looking at this collection it will certainly motivate the customer to live at the beach. The Rosa Cha woman is definitely sexy and is ready to spend a day at the beach and take that look for a night out in the city. –Brent Billiman, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lais Ribeiro for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Bruna Tenorio for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Rosa Cha S/S 11

Models to Watch at Sao Paulo S/S 2011

2010-06-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

Sao Paulo is kicking off the Spring/Summer 2011 show season with a familiar cast of superstar talent and emerging new models. This cast of models will also continue their walk in the American and European runways. The new faces are also expected to catch the attention of high profile casting directors and designers. There is no doubt that the following models listed will cause a great sensation in Sao Paulo this season. -Brent Billiman, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Raquel Zimmermann/ Ford

Alana Zimmer/ Ford

Barbara Berger/ Ford

Bruna Tenorio/ Ford

Evandro Soldati/ Ford

Jesus Luz/ Ford

Alessandra Ambrosio/ Way Models

Ana Claudia Michels/ Way Models

Carol Trentini/ Way Models

Lais Oliveira/ Way Models

Renata Sozzi/ Way Models

Flo Gennaro/ Ten Models

Andre Ziehe/ Ten Models

Gucci F/W 2010

2010-03-07T02:25:00.000-08:00

Gucci displays a monochromatic collection with profuse glamour. Italian designer Frida Giannini created a collection that was completely neutral and possessed all the essential Gucci elements from the 1990’s giving a simple nod to former Gucci designer, Tom Ford. However, this collection was all about Giannini and the essential pieces that give her adoration from the Gucci customer. This collection was almost like an actual peek into her wardrobe with indispensable pieces that would be hanging in her closet. She offered the incredibly tailored Frida pants that have become vital pieces from season to season. The tailoring had immense influence from menswear and according to Giannini it was borrowed from the boyfriend’s closet. With that in mind, there were plenty of coats that were available in wool, leather and fur. The fox furs permeated luxury into the collection and corresponded with the gold hardware recognizable on the belts and bags. The Gucci look this season was about the heritage and luxury of Gucci and the subtle elegance of monochrome.

The show was held in Milan with soundtrack from Massive Attack, Portishead and Caribou Odessa. Model Freja Beha Erichsen opened the show in a cream colored dress with matching tights and heels. The monochromatic sensation manifested right through the entire collection but never entered the territory of boredom. There was the luxurious infusion leather applied to various pieces, patchwork ostrich jacket, a fox fur coat and a pair of snakeskin boots. The Giannini pants were startling and tailored to perfection narrowly cut and opened just perfectly to fit over the shoe. The pants worked great with everything like the fox fur lined vest, an a-line suede coat and the peek-a-boo cut silk blouses.

The most admired piece in the collection was the marvelous Frida pants that were tailored to perfection. The finale eveningwear that came in black and tan with Chantilly lace were razor cut in a python pattern decorated with sequins and ostrich feathers were astonishing and adored by stylist and buyers. The minx tinted fox fur jacket, a sable jacket with an interweave suede and a camel coat with knitted mink lining were extremely gorgeous.

Frida Giannini showed us that there is no need to be trendy or find the next best thing in fashion in order to be successful. All that is needed were the essential Gucci pieces that the customer loves injected with a dose of luxury. The Gucci woman may not be over the top with displaying trends or vibrant colors but she is definitely not afraid to show off her love for luxury with nice fox fur bolero and gold Gucci belt. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lais Ribeiro for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Vlada Roslyakova for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Simona Andrejic for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Gucci F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Snejana Onopka for Gucci F/W 2010

Versace F/W 2010

2010-03-06T23:38:00.000-08:00

Versace biker girl electrifies Milan. Italian designer Donatella Versace took us in a different route with a collection that recalled the signature Versace style from the 1980’s and was infused with a rock and roll sensation. The tailoring was completely rock and roll with geometric cuts applied to dresses that came in a half-short and half-long length giving great attention to the legs. A hard rock metal sensation was perceptible on dresses with metal leather inserts and on various pieces held together by zippers. The biker impression was obvious in the leather coats and pants that had inserts of leather strips that were placed diagonal. The leather in the collection gave a subtle hint of S&M but did not over power the rock and roll consciousness. Techno fabrics of mirrored leather were visible on a few cocktail dresses had a metallic look and resembled the chrome from a bike. The cut on each piece was exceptionally important in the collection placing great attention on the neckline, legs and shoulders. The Versace look is dynamic with that signature Gianni Versace touch from the 1980’s.

The show was held in south Milan at the Teatro Versace with a custom metallic sapphire runway. Model Jac opened the show in a long color blocked wool coat paired with a black shirt and a mirrored metallic leather sapphire blue skirt and black boots. Metallic mirrored leather was ubiquitously and visible in the sexy cocktail pieces, short skirts and was applied on a few finale dresses. Leather and zippers were the vital apparatus that channeled the 1980’s Gianni Versace awareness with leather pieces inserted on the pants and skirts that were held together with zippers. The asymmetric cuts on the cocktail pieces and the jersey cut dresses came in array of colors of black, white and metallic mirrored bright colors.

An admired piece in the collection was the white paneled cocktail dress that looked incredible. Other pieces include the biker pants were denim pants inserted with diagonal leather strips. The mirrored metallic leather dresses and skirts also looked exceptionally dazzling.

Donatella Versace is a wonderful fashion leader and continues to reinvent the Versace women every season. She recalled the signature Gianni Versace style from the 1980’s and updated the look to recreate her take on a modern strong and dynamic look. The Versace woman is definitely full of life and will always remain to be sexy. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Daria Strokous for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jac for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Bregje Heinen for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Edita Vilkeviciute for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Antonella Graef for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jacquelyn Jablonski for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Yulia Kharlaponova for Versace F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ginta Lapina for Versace F/W 2010

Prada F/W 2010

2010-03-04T17:31:00.000-08:00

Nothing ordinary at Prada. Miuccia Prada presented a remarkable collection this season inspired from the completely innocent, sexually repressed, 1960’s era of American fashion. With this inspiration she injected a nice dose of her innovative touch with a sexual undertone that completely revamped each look with a refreshed modern impression. Prada was tired and bored of the typical cliché sexual references and reinterpreted her own version of sexy. With that in mind, the obvious main reference point of the clothing focused on the breast. A completely different shift from previous seasons where it was focused on the shoulders, legs or waist. The construction of the dresses had an obvious sexual suggestion with the pointy built in bras, high waist dresses and the ruffles of lace that covered the bust-lines. Experimentation with various fabrics was also important and manifested in the patent leather visible in the a-line cut skirts and the 1960’s style dresses and coats. Every piece that was offered looked far from ordinary or typical giving a fashion forward perception. The Prada look is not ordinary or boring; instead it’s all about being sexy and embracing the beautiful assets in the mid regions of a woman.

The show was held at the Prada headquarters in Milan at the show warehouse that was transformed into a twisting runway with soundtrack from DJ Frederic Sanchez. Model Samantha Gradoville opened the show in a black a-line 1960’s style dress with a pointy bra and a raised waist paired with knit stockings with lace and patent leather heels. All attention was focused on the breast and to add more attention to that region was the lace ruffled dresses, pointed bra that formed on the raised waist dresses giving off an obvious sexual commotion. Knit stockings with lace also played an important role in a great number of looks and appeared comfortable and sexy. Broken checks recalled Prada signature scratchy grid prints were visible in the a-line dresses, coats, trousers and tops. Comfort was also in the air with a wide range of knit-wear seen in tweed chunky sweaters and pea coat suits.

Admired pieces in the collection were the black coat embellished with black embroidery, the patent leather a-line dress and the scratchy grid print coats. There were a great number of pieces that were greatly appreciated.

Miuccia Prada is truly innovative and with this collection she proclaims that there is no need for the cliché references to feel sexy. A new take on a refreshed look from the 1960’s is all a women needs to feel powerful, sexy and far from ordinary. The Prada woman is obviously sexy and has no shame and showing off her mid-region assets on her chest. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Mariacarla Boscono for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lara Stone for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alessandra Ambrosio for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Doutzen Kroes for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Patricia van der Vliet for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sophie Srej for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Miranda Kerr for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Rasa Zukauskaite for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ilvie Wittek for Prada F/W 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kirsi Pyrhonen for Prada F/W 2010

Alexander Wang F/W 2010

2010-02-18T23:29:00.000-08:00

Wall Street sex appeal at Alexander Wang. American designer Alexander Wang presented a collection that was completely innovative and inspired from the uniforms of businessmen of Wall Street. Every piece in the collection was completely tailored but sustained that special Wang twist. An injection of his signature sex appeal touch permeated with the bare midriff cut-outs and experimentation with infusing various fabrics. An assortment of velvets was predominant and came in colors of black, gold, ruby and dark green. The velvets added a gypsy sensation into the collection. Layering was a significant factor for each look and was done precisely. A pin striped jacket was layered over a delicate lace dress and matched with thigh high knit chenille leggings. The color palette was mostly dark and with all the bare midriff and cut-outs implicating a sexual connotation with an S&M commotion. The trousers also had cutaways on the back waist revealing skin under the skinny patent leather belts. The Alexander Wang look is strong with great influence from menswear but maintains a sexy feminine touch.

The show was held in Midtown Manhattan at the Pier 94 exhibition space located right next to the Hudson River. The space had a completely dark ambiance with a concrete runway floors that were slicked with water. Russian supermodel Natalia Vodianova opened the show in a pin-striped cross cut mini dress paired with a black thigh high knit chenille leggings and a black crisscrossed backpack. The traditional banker’s suit was reconstructed with a sexy touch and apparently visible in the mini-skirts, cut-out jackets and sexy trousers. Velvets were seen everywhere in the collection and were ruched, draped and stretched. Lace and silk lingerie were added to a variety of pieces adding a feminine familiarity to the collection.

There were plenty of desired pieces that were offered this season. Desired pieces were the pin-striped mini dress, lingerie and lace tops and dresses and the cut-out wool camel colored coats. The thigh high knit chenille leggings were also incredibly appealing and could be the next trend this next fall season.

Alexander Wang was once considered the best new designer but after presenting this innovative collection he can now be referred to as the fashion leader. Wang has brought us his own take on a sexy woman that meets Wall Street. The Alexander Wang women is strong but still remains sexy and is not afraid of showing a little skin this next fall season. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Natalia Vodianova for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Regina Feoktistova for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jessica Miller for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sara Blomqvist for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Yasminka Muratovich for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Aline Weber for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jenny Sinkaberg for Alexander Wang F/W 10

Jason Wu F/W 2010

2010-02-15T15:21:00.000-08:00

Legendary fashion photographer inspires Jason Wu. American designer Jason Wu was motivated this season from the late legendary fashion photographer, Irving Penn. The simplicity of Penn’s personal style is what set the disposition for the entire collection. An exquisite plaid jacket paired with a tailored crisp white shirt was the essential component for his chic style. This simplicity of Penn’s style was evident in the day wear with the relaxed trousers, the comfortable mohair sweaters and the menswear coats that draped over the feminine blouses, skirts and dresses. Wu also presented his trademark gorgeous cocktail dresses and evening gowns but this time he infused an edgy aspect with paint splatters. Layering of knit pieces and fabrics with hard textures were added to various day wear pieces permeated the suggestion from the menswear inspiration. The strong masculine component of Penn instilled a distinctive edge in numerous pieces. Several ball gowns and dresses were wonderful and something Penn would have taken pleasure in photographing.

The show was held in West Chelsea with a long narrow hot pink runway with model Anja Rubik opening the show in a paint splattered masculine double breasted cashmere coat. The opening look was quite a surprise, Wu has been known for presenting ladylike fantasy feminine dresses and this season each look was distinctive with an edge. The masculine reference was visible in the oversized coats, textures and excess fabrics applied to various pieces. The tailored crisp coats, blouses and trousers gave a nod to Penn’s signature style. The cocktail dresses and ball gowns that were hand draped and ruche appeared exceedingly heavy but definitely looked dramatic and stunning.

An admired piece in the collection was the ivory finale gown that was hand draped. Other pieces that appealing were the Penn inspired jackets and the relaxed trousers. Feathered cocktail dresses were extremely gorgeous and were mostly favored by stylist and buyers.

Jason Wu has showed everyone with this collection that not only can he make a lovely feminine dresses but he can also inject some edge with some masculinity and structure. He gave homage to the notable late fashion photographer Irving Penn with reflecting on his personal style and creating pieces that he would have enjoyed photographing. The Jason Wu women will always remain a sophisticated but this season she is strong and not afraid to have a stylish edge. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Dorothea Barth Jorgensen for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Tati Cotliar for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lindsey Wixson for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Iris Strubegger for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Daiane Conterato for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Liu Wen for Jason Wu

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Yulia Kharlaponova for Jason Wu

BCBG Max Azria F/W 2010

2010-02-13T22:39:00.000-08:00

An abundance of layers at BCBG Max Azria. Tunisian designing couple Max and Lubov Azria took a step in a different course from last season’s youthful and vibrant collection. This time around they took inspiration from the 1960’s and the James Cameron science fiction film, Avatar. The entire collection was completely clean cut with nice layers of silk that came in chic geometric color blocked silhouettes paired with relaxed knit tops. The dresses had a carefree sensation comparable to a nicely fitted t-shirt. Every piece in the collection was exceptionally comfortable and entirely wearable in summer as well. The 1960’s inspired the clean and modern impression. The sci-fi element was perceptible in the intense colors of yellow and blues that stood out amongst the black, grey and white. Various pieces would have been a perfect wardrobe for a modern day women working on the “Star Trek’ voyager.

The event was held at the Bryant Park tents and the first show of the season kicking of New York Fashion Week. Model Anastasia Kuznetsova opened the show in a white silk dress paired with a relaxed kit top cinched with a wide elastic belt. The fabrics were incredibly light weight and thin but remained extremely warm and disparate from the ordinary winter bulky layering of heavy winter pieces. Asymmetrical color-blocked dresses layered with knit tops were paired with loose black trousers giving a nod to the 1960’s clean cut sentiment. There was also a great attention to details with sequins that were sewn into tulle and there was accordion pleats placed in the paneling on various pieces.

Admired pieces in the collection were the silk dresses that felt tremendously light and would also work well at the end of summer. The knit tops that came in various intense colors of blue and yellow were also very appealing and distinct. Every piece in the collection was extremely carefree and could be all interchangeable.

Tremendous comfort and style is what Max and Lubov Azria have given their customer. This collection is entirely carefree and no matter piece is selected everything is interchangeable. The BCBG Max Azria woman is comfortable and stylish and ready to conquer the future even if she is going to be taking a journey into space. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Patricia van der Vliet for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Abbey Lee Kershaw for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Ann Kenny for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anastasia Kuznetsova for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anastasia Kuznetsova for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lisanne De Jong for BCBG Max Azria

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jac for BCBG Max Azria

Models to Watch F/W 2010 Season

2010-02-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

There will be a variety of great faces this season in New York with the world's most beautiful women walking the runways. The top girls to watch will be an array of superstars, rising stars and the new emerging talent. The following models are expected to rule the catwalks in New York, Milan and Paris. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Karlie Kloss/ Next

Abbey Lee/ Next

Aggyness Deyn/ Women

Natasha Poly/ Women

Eniko Mihalik/ Marilyn

Tanya Dziahileva/ Marilyn

Chanel Iman/ Ford

Jacquelyn Jablonski/ Ford

Coco Rocha/ Elite

Dree Hemingway/ Elite

Freja Beha Erichson/ IMG

Lara Stone/ IMG

Lindsay Ellingson/ DNA

Anna Derijk/ DNA

Edita Vilkeviciute/ DNA

Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

2009-11-13T12:18:00.000-08:00

The glamorous life at Ivon Reyes. Mexican designer Ivon Reyes presented a glamorous collection stimulating the idea of a girl that goes on a holiday to Ibiza. This collection was filled with various pieces that included a 1940’s inspired chic swimsuits, stunning silk goddess dresses and a few ball gowns. She was inspired by the fantasy and splendor of a floral garden. She prefers to surround herself with a lovely bouquet of flowers giving encouragement for her vibrant floral color palette and crystal stones. The crystal embellishments injected a enjoyable dose of glitz that sparkled on the sexy swimsuits and beautiful gowns. This element gave the illusion of luxury and the suggestion of being untouchable. Reyes displayed tremendous skills in cutting and draping visible in the silk goddess dresses that flowed incredibly off the models body. The swimsuits were astonishing and perfect for a nice relaxing day on the beach. The Ivon Reyes look is opulent with a hint of enjoyable sex appeal.

The show was held in the scenic desert city of Scottsdale at the Southbridge open runway with soundtrack from American pop singer Lady Gaga’s single, “fashion.” Model Megan Dooley opened the show in a silver and white swimsuit embellished with crystals. A great selection of precisely cut swimsuits with floral and crystal embellishing were offered in black, silver and aqua blue. A vast amount of dresses would work perfect for a season worth of dinners, art openings and the occasional gala.

Admired pieces were the incredible silk goddess dresses that came in plum and crimson red. The wedding dress in the finale was remarkable and definitely a crowd pleaser at the show.

Ivon Reyes displayed great skills and talent with this debut collection inspired from the love of flowers. She gave us remarkable pieces that make you want to pack your bags and plan your next holiday. The Ivon Reyes women is ready to spend a day on the beach and sparkle under the sun. -Brent Billiman, Scottsdale, Arizona. USA.

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Brittany Brown for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Megan Dooley for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Madison Brown for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Brittany Brown for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Megan Dooley for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Audra Buras for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Lauren Teter for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Kim Shurk for Ivon Reyes S/S 2010

Backstage Ivon Reyes

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Brittany Brown

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Brittany Brown and Madison Brown

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Madison Brown

Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

2009-11-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

A look into the closet of a punk rock princess at Vickilyn McCarthy. American designer Vickilyn McCarthy was tired of the ordinary rock princess attire and decided to take matters into her own hands and created a collection that was wild and fun. She definitely has added some much needed sizzle to Scottsdale Fashion Week. This season every element of the closet was explored that started with the knickers, the essential party dresses and the eccentric pink wedding gown. She followed the current movement in high fashion with the trend of inner-wear as being the new outer-wear. McCarthy had great influence from the former Dauphine of France, Marie Antoinette. A legendary queen that was considered, during her prime, wild and different. Antoinette’s style was visible in the voluminous dresses, corsets and the decadent masquerade ball masks. There was a hint of Asia, from the fetish queens in Japanese kabuki inspired makeup to the black kimono style dress. The Vickilyn McCarthy look is distinct and edgy.

The show was held at the Southbridge open runway with soundtrack from the symphonic metal band from Finland, Nightwish. Model Kala French opened the show in a baby pink lingerie with black trimming paired with matching knickers. Prevalent colors in the collection were black, rose red, baby pink and virgin white. Edgy pieces was the black and white striped cross-laced corset top that was paired with a ruffled feathered skirt. She offered casual pieces that was simply cool and had the signature McCarthy touch.

An admired piece was the pink wedding gown that gave a nod to the old wild west with the saloon style ruffled skirt. Another favorite piece in the collection was the black Japanese kimono mini-dress.

Vickilyn McCarthy is all about having no boundaries and endless fun in this collection. She has brought fantasy to life and referenced the legendary Mademoiselle Marie Antoinette. The Vickilyn McCarthy women is outgoing, fun and free spirited this next spring season. -Brent Billiman, Scottsdale, Arizona. USA.

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Kala French for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Jessica Callan for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Christina Keosky-Smith for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Kala French for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Jessica Callan for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Karen Malick for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Clarita Ball for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Brittany Lang for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Designer Vickilyn McCarthy for Vickilyn McCarthy S/S 2010

Backstage Vickylyn McCarthy

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Kala French

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Rachel Brown
Chad Bricks Photo: Designer and Models

Kevan Hall S/S 2010

2009-11-10T12:34:00.000-08:00

A classy dress can be innovative. American designer Kevan Hall kicked off Scottsdale Fashion Week with a collection that had pure class and inspiration from legendary Haute Couture client, the late Elizabeth Parke Firestone. Firestone was known as the best dressed women in America and a highly regarded Haute Couture client for the House of Christian Dior and Balenciaga. The spirit of her style was evident in the collection with pieces that she would have adored, herself. There were stunning silk gowns that had a Japanese origami sensation that came in azalea pink, coral and yellow. A blush silk skirt was paired with a cream white cotton tailored shirt that would be perfect for both work and play. There were also a great number of cocktail dresses in subtle and vibrant colors. Hall gave us amazing pieces that work perfect for the modern day women. The Kevan Hall look epitomizes pure class and elegance.

The show was held in the beautiful southwest city of Scottsdale, Arizona in the main tent stage with model Aubrie Stephens opening the show in a crimson red one shouldered cocktail dress. Cocktail pieces were in matte gold, cream white, and indigo blue that came in silk and saddle-stitch silk cotton blend. The evening gowns gave a nod to the late Mousier Dior’s work from the 1950’s with the tailored cuts and vibrant colors. The focus on the collection was all about elegance and tailoring that infused a luxurious undertone. The most important element of this collection is that each look would flatter a “normal” women’s body and not just a model.

Admired pieces in the collection was the coral satin and silk origami organza gown and the indigo blue georgette crisscross dress. Other appealing pieces were the skirts that came in black and azalea pink were paired with white tailored cotton shirts.

Kevan Hall has definitely satisfied the need for luxurious all-American fashion. This collection would have been a perfect wardrobe for the modern day Elizabeth Park Firestone. The Kevan Hall women is certainly ready to be the best dressed women this next spring season. -Brent Billiman, Scottsdale, Arizona. USA.

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Kristhian Dillard for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Rachel Niu for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Aubrey Stephens for Kevan Hall S/S 2010

Chad Bricks Photo: Kevan Hall Finale

Backstage Kevan Hall

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Rachel Niu backstage

Chad Bricks Photo: Model at Hair and Makeup

Chad Bricks Photo: Model Kristhian Dillard backstage

Balmain S/S 2010

2009-10-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

A warrior goddess presentation at Balmain. Notable Parisian designer Christophe Decarnin presented a strong military chic collection that would have been perfect for a modern day warrior goddess. Except this warrior goddess is armed and ready to walk the Avenue des Champs-Elysees in Paris rather than an actual battle field. Armored with metal mesh dresses with intricate detailing with skillful cuts that made them fall off the models body like a second skin. There was certainly an immense indication of Gianni Versace from the 1980’s in the metal mesh dresses. Leather and python leggings were exceptional with a meticulous lattice weave. The signature Decarnin pagoda shoulders with metal epaulette embellished the precise cut military coat giving it a spectacular effect. Every piece in this collection was unique and had the haute couture like quality with great attention to details and a lot of one of kind pieces, in other words every piece in this collection will be very expensive. Christophe Decarnin shows us with this collection his take on a modern day warrior goddess in Paris.

The event was held in a marble ballroom at the exquisite Grand Hotel with soundtrack from American hip hop group The Sugar Hill Gang’s 1980’s hit single, “Rapper’s Delight.” Canadian Supermodel Daria Werbowy opened the show in a green cotton military coat that had a metal epaulette embellished Decarnin pagoda shoulders and was paired with a destroyed t-shirt and black leather leggings. Every look was a sensation with golden bronze chain mail dresses that fell from the body like a second skin. Exquisite attention to detail was seen with the threading completed in the mesh metal, sequins and the lattice weave on the python and leather leggings. T-shirts, jeans and jackets were destroyed and stained with visible bullet holes giving authentic warrior sensation.

Admired pieces in the collection were the metal mesh and leather dresses that were astonishing and fell off the models bodies like armor or a second skin. Another incredible piece was the black crocodile coat that was utterly bold made out of a complete skin of an entire crocodile with back that had actual eye cut outs.

Christophe Decarnin has brought strength, quality and authenticity with this unique collection. His take on a perfect wardrobe for a warrior goddess was a complete success and left the entire audience at the Grand Hotel speechless and excited for one of the most important label in fashion today. The Balmain women is ready to take on the world with great strength and sex appeal ready to conquer anything in sight this next spring season. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Carmen Kass for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Daria Werbowy for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Isabeli Fontana for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Maryna Linchuk for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Abbey Lee for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Balmain S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Balmain S/S 2010

Gucci S/S 2010

2009-10-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

A sporty chic presentation at Gucci. Italian designer Frida Giannini presented a collection that was inspired by extreme sportswear. The sporty idea was combined with the signature Gucci DNA infusing a powerful and sexy sensation into the collection. There was an experimentation with the use of high-tech fabrics that were similar to the sportswear of a true athlete. A hint of a sci-fi element was apparent with the use of the high-tech materials giving it a futuristic impression. Actual pieces from parachute backpack were attached to the back of a cocktail dress. Cinches, pulleys, silver latches and a sports clasp were attached to several pieces giving it a bondage sensation. Authentic parachute sports mesh material was inserted on the torso of a dresses and side of the leg of a pants. Immense detailing was impressive with the silver embroidery and the embellishments of metallic and crystal beading. The added detailing gave each piece a hint glamour but still maintained that athletic sci-fi emotion. Prints were inspired from the ikat geometric pattern carpet from Uzbekistan. This pattern was also seen on the various cuts and embellishments on the dresses. Frida Giannini has reached a new level of innovation with a good dose of Gucci DNA to present an athletic, sexy and glamorous collection.

The show was held at Gucci’s Piazza Oberdan show space with an Uzbekistan ikat carpet pattern that decorated the floor of the runway. Russian model Natasha Poly opened the show in a multi-strapped white dress with matching multi-strapped high heels. There was a great amount of jackets with that were offered in the mesh sport fabric and also a biker jacket that came in crocodile. The ikat pattern was used in the embroidery work on a few black cocktail dresses. The colors of white and black dominated the color scheme in the collection with a few splashes of color from the ikat prints. High tech fabrics were used in the high waist leggings, skirts and jackets. The sexy element was introduced with open backs and blazer that revealed bare skin and cut outs that had mesh inserts giving it a subtle sexual appeal.

Admired pieces in the collection were the multi-strapped dresses that were offered in white and black. The crocodile biker jacket, the backless blazer, and the parachute jackets.

Frida Giannini has brought back the DNA of Gucci and has infused it with an innovative idea of sportswear to have a remarkable collection. The Gucci women this next spring season is athletic, sexy and exciting. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lindsay Ellingson for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jac for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Charlotte di Calypso for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Vlada Roslyakova for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Chanel Iman for Gucci S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lindsay Ellingson for Gucci S/S 2010

Versace S/S 2010

2009-09-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

A taste of life in wonderland at Versace. Italian designer Donatella Versace brought excitement and fantasy to life in Milan this season with an wonderful presentation of her upcoming collection. This time around she was completely inspired by Tim Burton’s fantasy film, “Alice and the Wonderland,” which is set to be released next year in March. The idea of fantasy was definitely brought to life in this collection with the use of vivid colors that also evoked the signature style of the late Gianni Versace’s collection in the 1980’s that also brought back the true spirit and sensation of the label. The look was absolutely pure sex with emphasis on the super long legs of every supermodel that walked down the runway. There was a great number of super short skirts that also were offered in see-through plastic, barely covering the model’s behind, paired with leotard tops that came in vivid pastel colors and prints. Prints of clocks, cards and rabbits were seen on the baroque’s that gave a nod to the Alice and the Wonderland inspiration. The cut outs and chain mail details added a sexual element to the short dresses with digitized prints. Donatella Versace has gone back to the source giving us a youthful, energetic and fun collection.

The show was held at the Versace theater, also known as the historic Teatro Alcione, with a simple runway with a white curtain backdrop. Australian model Abbey Lee opened the event in a digitized vivid yellow printed dress with chain mail details attached at the waist and was paired with a matching yellow print platform high heels. This collection was all about great detailing and handwork with silver that was used in the chain mail embellishing, added touches on baroques, jackets and skinny trousers. The detailing was wonderful and is done the Versace atelier style with astonishing meticulous work. The key pieces were the thigh skimming short skirts that came in clear silver metal, leather and plastic. Prints were also prevalent with delightful images of rabbits, playing cards and clocks. There was also digitalized and geometric prints that gave the piece some edge with the vivid pastel colors.

An admired piece in this collection was an incredible string and pink mirror cocktail dress that was truly head turning. A pink chiffon finale gown that had meticulous detailing, Versace atelier style, was particularly alluring.

Donatella Versace proved to us that in order make a successful collection is to channel the true spirit of Versace and mixed it with a little fantasy of wonderland. The Versace women is youthful, energetic and most importantly she is super sexy. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Yulia Kharlapinova for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Mirte Maas for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jac for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Imogen Morris Clarke for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Ginta Lapina for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Edita Vilkeviciute for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sasha Pivovarova for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Weronika for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Ginta Lapina for Versace S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Abbey Lee for Versace S/S 2010

Prada S/S 2010

2009-09-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

A chandelier fantasy in a tropical paradise at Prada. Italian designer Miuccia Prada has took her intellectual initiative to an entirely different level and territory with this collection. She is not the typical designer to give ordinary pieces but instead offers unique pieces that are distinctive. Her intellectual idea is to look at pieces of clothing that she might consider ugly and rework them with her own signature touch to make it delightful. The suggestion in this collection was to infuse the idea of trashy modern women with a twist of high-end luxury. With that in mind there was an edgy touch supplemented to a simple sophisticated pieces that had raw frayed fabric that was unstitched. Sexy pieces of silk stiff shorts that were cut extremely high resembling lingerie panties paired with a short jackets that flared at the hips. This look gave off a suggestive sensual fantasy but maintained a luxurious aspect . A hint of 1960’s influence was also evident that was seen with the precise angular coats that came in a stiff nylon and duchess satin. This collection was all about the innovation with Lucite high heels that had miniature crystal chandeliers attached giving life to a high heel that was only considered only wearable by strippers and prostitutes adding to the idea of trashy meets classy. Miuccia Prada gives great charm to unwanted, mysterious and hideous pieces and turns them into objects of desire.

The event was held at the Prada headquarters show space that was entirely transformed to resemble a lobby of a old posh hotel with a grandness of polished marble floors and a projected image of luxurious chandeliers and a seaside view. The soundtrack was a mix from Frederic Sanchez that incorporated that classy and trashy awareness. Model Lindsey Wixson opened the show in a stiff angular grey satin and nylon coat with black silk shorts paired with Lucite heels with black trimming. Prada has a current obsession with lingerie panties and made a great number of shorts that resembled that look. Frayed seams were visible on a stiff nylon and duchess satin fabric on the Bermuda’s, jackets, capes and shorts.

Admired pieces in the collection were the astonishing Prada prints that were actual images taken from a man made beach in Japan. Prints that resembled a tropical paradise with tourist enjoying a day at the beach. These prints were visible on coats, cocktail pieces, blouses and shorts.

Miuccia Prada is an extremely intellectual designer that takes something that is particularly ugly and turns it into something charmingly attractive. She knows the true science behind the trends and gives us unique pieces that stand alone from ordinary luxury attire. The Prada women is ready to take a luxurious holiday with her chandelier Lucite high heels and the next trendy clear plastic Prada purse this next spring season.
-Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kendra Spears for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lisanne De Jong for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Keke Lindgard for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lindsey Wixson for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lindsey Wixson for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Mirte Maas for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Nicole Hofman for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Rasa Zukauskaite for Prada S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anabela Belikova for Prada S/S 2010

Christopher Kane S/S 2010

2009-09-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

A gingham moment at Christopher Kane. Scottish designer Christopher Kane was inspired by the sexually repressed American women and the religious cults that poisoned the idea of women and sex. His inspiration began with a simple photo of former American first lady Nancy Reagan on the White House lawn and the movie, “Lolita,” which gave him motivation and brought this collection to life. This gave him the suggestion to utilize American gingham through out the entire collection. Gingham came in various colors of brown, navy and pink that were mixed with tulle, embroidery and crystal embellishments. There was a lot of emphasis on the breast with bra seaming and contouring with no hint of cleavage that was visible. A puff sleeve, tulle paneled inserts over gingham, and thigh split dresses gave a fresh and playful initiative of using gingham. Christopher Kane gave us an attentive conception of using American gingham that might have been repetitive but instead was absolutely complex and stimulating.

The event was held at the Somerset house tents in central London with the soundtrack for the show playing gospel music giving it an sinister feeling. Model Valerija Kelava opened the show in a sleeveless thigh-split brown gingham dress paired with a black tailored vest. Every piece was kept appropriately modest but had a distinctive touch with precise cuts, draping and layering of gingham mixed with lace, tulle, chiffon and embellishments of crystals. Each piece had a accurate tailoring that fit the body perfectly with a high waist and cut outs that gave it a sophisticated sexiness.

The favorite pieces were the pink gingham dresses that had the bra contoured seaming and had a split cut on the thigh. The savile row tailored vest and jacket were also greatly admired.

Christopher Kane has definitely set trends with the use of American gingham with this remarkable collection. He has truly proved to everyone that he is a talented designer and has great complexity. The Christopher Kane women is sophisticated with a nice dose of sexual appeal. -Brent Billiman, London, England.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Katie Fogarty for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sharon Kavjian for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anabela Belikova for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anna de Rijk for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Valerija Kelava for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jenny Shimizu for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Shu Pei Qin for Christopher Kane S/S 2010

Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

2009-09-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

Antonio Berardi brings sexy back to London. Italian-British designer Antonio Berardi made his return back home to London and presented a collection that was completely sexy. He definitely knows how to turn up the heat with his signature sexy Italian style. Educated at the local Central Saint Martins and working with legendary British designer John Galliano, he has certainly transformed himself into one of the most important fashion forces in the industry today. He showed his signature style with his short structured body conscious dresses with the built in bra tops that came in black, nude and cream. There was also some immense Japanese influence seen throughout the collection in the Japanese-style folds in some dresses and the kimono style shoulders on the jackets and cocktail pieces. The character for each look was ultra sexy with form fitting dresses that mostly came in nude and cream giving off the impression of nudity. Padding was used on the hips of some dresses giving the illusion of an accentuated hourglass curved hip. Antonio Berardi has brought us his signature style and added a hint of Japanese influence to give us a seductive and pleasant collection.

The event was held at the beautiful historic St. Mark’s church on North Audley Street in Mayfair, the Westminster area of London. The church set the sentiment for the show with guests sitting in the traditional church pews facing towards aisle, that had incredible marble floors. Model Alla Kostromicheva opened the show in a cream colored tailored skirt suit that was paired with a nude crystal embellished boned corset. He showed his great love for short tight dress displaying the Japanese style pieces that had ornate origami folds at the waist and the typical Berardi style body conscious dress with a built in bra top that came in cream, nude and black. A splash of crystal embellishments were seen on the corset tops adding a glitzy sensation.

Adored pieces in this collection were the gorgeously tailored kimono style silk jackets that came in tomato red and blue. Other admired pieces were the Berardi signature style body conscious dresses with the sexy bustier bodice.

Antonio Berardi has displayed a wonderful collection that shows his great skills and talent. There was the signature sexy Italian style with a Parisian touch was greatly admired by everyone. The Antonio Berardi women will always be sexy but this time she had a hint of British glamour and elegance. -Brent Billiman, London, England.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Imogen Morris Clarke for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alla Kostromicheva for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Daniela Borges for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kelsey Van Mook for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Malene Knudsen for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Daniela Borges for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Valeria Dmitrienko for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Iris Van Berne for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Imogen Morris Clarke for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Polina Barbosova for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alla Kostromicheva for Antonio Berardi S/S 2010

Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

2009-09-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

A sexy and sophisticated presentation at Matthew Williamson. English designer Matthew Williamson took a turn in a different direction this season with a collection that was tailored and strong. There was no sign of his usual signature bohemian style of free flowing printed dresses and cardigans. Every piece in this collection was pleasantly tailored with slim body conscious pieces and skinny-cut pants. This new change might be due to the fact that Williamson was back home in London presenting his collection rather than his usual show venue in New York City. It was definitely a collection for him to show his home city that he has evolved into a successful designer. This collection was all about a polished silhouette with body conscious dresses and lean fitted trousers. There was also some bright orchid print that were seen in the shirts and dresses. Stunning textures were seen in jackets and dresses with beading, shards of mirror and metallic linens. Matthew Williamson presented a diverse collection that was strong and sophisticated.

The event was held at the Somerset house in central London overlooking the River Thames and was east of the Waterloo Bridge. Model Abbey Lee opened the show in a tailored stone colored jacket paired with a beaded metallic linen dress. The beading infused sophistication in the tailored jackets and dresses. Metallic fabrics were also prevalent in the pants and high-waist shorts. The idea of metallic was the main focus in the collection with short dresses that were trimmed with glass shard mirrors. Each piece had a pleasant tailoring with great attention to details.

The adored pieces in the collection were the bejeweled cocktail dresses that came in a stone color. Another great piece was the beaded tailored jackets and metallic high-waist shorts that would work perfect for next spring.

Matthew Williamson has proved to his home city in London that he is a established designer with this unique and lovely collection. This collection was remarkable with a great shift in a new direction. The Matthew Williamson women is no longer the bohemian and carefree individual but rather a strong and sophisticated women who is now in London. -Brent Billiman, London, England.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Bette Franke for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Daria Strokous for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Laura Blokhina for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ali Michael for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anabela Belikova for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kamila Filipcikova for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alla Kostromicheva for Matthew Williamson S/S 2010

Rodarte S/S 2010

2009-09-21T21:17:00.000-07:00

Flight of the Condor stimulates Rodarte. American designers Kate and Laura Mulleavy were inspired by a trip to Death Valley and intrigued with the North American bird, the California Condor. They assimilated this motivation with their avant-garde and futuristic technique in the creation of this collection. In each piece there was a great amount of attention to detail with the fastidiously draped fabrics that were torn apart and distressed. A process that also included meticulous handwork with fabrics that were scorched with flames, sandpapered, tie-dyed, embroidered and scattered with crystals. This was definitely not a collection that was created overnight and it took two creative masterminds to create each delightful piece. Leather and wool fringes trailed a few pieces that resembling the vultures wings. Various fabrics of plaid, silk, cheesecloth, wool and leather were seen in each the collection and in some pieces were all combined in one piece. Kate and Laura Mulleavy gives a distinctive collection that was beautiful and unique.

The event was held at the downtown Gagosian Gallery, on west 21st street, in the midst of a dramatic smoke from dry ice that set a gothic tone. The soundtrack was by independent pop band Papercuts single, “future primitive.” Opening the show was model Anastasia Kuznetsova in a dress with fabrics of silk, cheese cloth and plaid paired with a braided leather belt with a silver claw buckle. Every piece in the collection had a personal touch from the Mulleavy duo with great attention to every touch of fabric almost comparable to the works of the French haute couturier, not exact but with some enjoyable American edge and ideas. Plaid was seen mixed in various pieces of sandpapered silk, braided lace and leather. The look was very strong and with every girl displaying temporary tribal tattoos on the arms and hair pulled back.

Enjoyable pieces in the collection were the finale gowns decorated in black feathers on the shoulders and black wool fringe trailing the back. There Nicholas Kirkwood heels were also incredible.

Kate and Laura Mulleavy have definitely brought futurism, a wonderful idea and the French haute couture touch and have created a marvelous collection. This collection was definitely one the strongest collections of the season. The Rodarte women is strong and ready to take flight like a vulture this next spring season. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Elsa Sylvan for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Frida Gustavsson for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Mirte Maas for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sasha Pivovarova for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Eniko Mihalik for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Rodarte S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Madisyn Ritland for Rodarte S/S 2010

Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

2009-09-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

A remarkable feminine touch at Marc Jacobs. Celebrated American designer Marc Jacobs has done it again this season and surprised us with an astounding collection that felt as if it came out of a Broadway show. This innovative idea was inspired by feminine motivations from the ballet, opera and the theater. There was also inspiration from legendary modern dancer, the late Martha Graham. This collection was all about delicate touches of organza, frou-frou ruffles and embellishments of crystals or pearls. The ruffled touches were seen on long jersey dresses, short delicate dresses and on rompers. The light fabrics were elegant and sheer flowing from the body gracefully. With each look it was all about layering whether it be a ruffled jersey dressed that was paired with a soft green military jacket or a lingerie bra top worn over a romper. Every piece had a soft touch to it with the core color palette of lavender, pink and ivory. With this collection genuinely brought the fantasy of cabaret to life in this collection. Marc Jacobs brings us innovation with simple feminine touches along with his distinctive edge in this collection.

The show was held at the common venue, the historic Downtown Armory on Lexington Avenue. This massive site was simple and entirely white with all the focus on the clothes. Soundtrack for the show was from Charli XCX’s single, “Lilac a Libertine.” With a simple white room with a A-list crowd, including pop legend Madonna front and center, the anticipation of the show was filled with excitement. Model Iris Strubegger opened the show in a high belted raincoat over a organza ruffled romper paired with Japanese inspired sandals embellished in crystals. The makeup supplemented immense character that was theatrical with kabuki style powdered face and hair done up in a ballet chignon knot. There was a lot of precise tailoring that were seen in the pin striped and A-line jackets. A hint of military was visible in a few jackets that were belted at the waist. This collection was all about the frou-frou ruffles, tulle and organza that were perceptible in the dresses and rompers.

Stylist, buyers and editors all agreed that this collection was well adored in it’s entirety. The stand out pieces were the military inspired jackets that were impeccably tailored added some edge to each piece it was paired with. The short party dresses that ruffled resembling a mermaid scales were remarkable.

Marc Jacobs has brought the fantasy of theater to life and is one of the only true innovative American designers in fashion today. This collection will set many trends in fashion and Jacobs truly sets the fashion standards to a new level. The Marc Jacobs women the next spring season is ready to show off her femininity while remaining strong and edgy. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Chanel Iman for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anastasija Kondratjeva for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Alana Zimmer for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Imogen Morris Clarke for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Heloise Guerin for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Angelika Kocheva for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Irina Kulikova for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jessica Stam for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kamila Filipcikova for Marc Jacobs S/S 2010

Diane von Furstenberg S/S 2010

2009-09-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

A journey into the desert at Diane von Furstenberg. Prominent American designer Diane Von Furstenberg has taken us on a journey into the desert with exotic ideas from Egypt. Adding a new twist on her signature wrap dress with some exotic animal prints and vibrant colors that make a women want to pack their bags and take a safari into the desert this upcoming spring season. There was an enjoyable quantity of glamorous prints that were seen in a giraffe-print sarongs, tiger-print chiffon dress and a black zebra mini dress. A glitz was evident in the beaded embellishments on the stunning macramé, purses and bracelets. Being a style icon in America she has shown us with this collection that its always clever to see a gratifying mixture of prints and colors. Diane von Furstenberg has given us the signature “strong women” style that is adventurous and fun.

The show was held at the Bryant Park tents with a painted backdrop resembling the rock temples that were made for Pharaohs in Egypt during earlier times. The soundtrack for was a remixed version of Madonna’s hit single, Erotica. Opening the event was model Kendra Spears in a desert sand colored swimsuit with a bright animal print jacket paired with gold strapped sandals. The palette of colors in this collection were very exuberant with bright colors of gold, Nile green, orange and desert sand. There was plenty of exotic animal prints of zebra, tiger and giraffe. We saw sexy tiger prints in safari suits, shirtdresses with leopard prints and giraffe print sarongs. This collection was definitely perfect for the modern day Cleopatra.

The admired pieces in the collection were the signature Diane von Furstenberg wrap dresses that came in a assortment of prints and vibrant colors. This signature piece is a timeless classic but done up this time in exuberant colors. The one shouldered leotard bathing suits were very appealing.

While the exotic animal prints were very alluring the blue floral chiffon dresses with an overdose of ruffles were a bid absurd. This piece felt out of place in this exotic voyage of a collection.

Diane von Furstenberg has injected a enjoyable dose of adventure in this exotic collection. She used her signature elements but mixing things up with an inspiration of travel and colors from Egypt. The Diane von Furstenberg women this next spring season is ready to be adventurous. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Marina Jamieson for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Eniko Mihalik for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kendra Spears for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Elena Melnik for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Abbey Lee for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Coco Rocha for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lakshmi Menon for Diane von Furstenberg S/S 10

Alexander Wang S/S 2010

2009-09-14T02:13:00.000-07:00

The game is on at Alexander Wang. Talented American designer Alexander Wang has brought his game on this season, literally, with a collection that was completely inspired by the love of American sports. This time around Wang interjected sportswear with a pleasant dose of coolness in this collection. There were pieces such as a quilted leather baseball shorts, sweater dresses with cut outs, football shoulders on sweatshirt tops and knee socks with soccer shin guards. This new inspiration added a new sporty idea and a fun outlook for the upcoming spring season. Wang is definitely on top of his game this season designer after receiving an award for most emerging designer from the Council of Fashion Designers of America, CFDA. He gave us a fresh idea with this collection giving us much proof that he is talented with his unique and fun trendsetting pieces that will be imitated as soon as the show ended. The Alexander Wang intensity was apparent with the edgy sensation but this time it was a lot softer than last seasons rock and roll impression.

The show was held at a massive show space, Pier 94, located on 12th Avenue overlooking the Hudson River. This show was beyond doubt the most important event of the season with important fashion press from Europe only in town for this show, imperative fashion photographers and the “it” people in fashion. The show started with a drum rolled mixed soundtrack evoking a feeling of sitting in a crowd at a football game. Model Mirte Maas opened the show in a khaki raincoat cape with rugby infused striped silk shorts and knee socks that were paired with cheetah print wedge heels. There was grey sweatshirts with built in corsets, tight black referee dresses with white trim and oversized capes with a bra top underneath that infused a sports sensation with a hint of coolness.

This collection certainly had an investment factor with timeless pieces that could be worn from season to season. He never disappoints giving us must have pieces such as the double layered leather jacket, leather corsets over sweater tops and the tight fitted dresses with cut outs made in sweatshirt fabrics. Each piece had a comfortable, fun and carefree sensation to them and something you might call your favorite.

Alexander Wang has lived up to his reputation as being an emerging artist and is transforming himself into a design mastermind. With this collection he has brought a classic American idea and infused it with his own personal touch of edginess and gave us a collection that is unique and exciting. The Alexander Wang women this next spring season is ready to have fun and enjoy a night out at the games. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Angela Lindvall for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Frankie Rayder for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Isabeli Fontana for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Mirte Maas for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ana Selezneva for Alexander Wang S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Alexander Wang S/S 10

BCBG Max Azria S/S 2010

2009-09-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

There is no need for pants at BCBG. The husband and wife design duo Max and Lubov Azria kicked off New York fashion week with a breath of fresh air equipped for the next spring season. It was a collection that was simply dedicated to the idea of wearing nothing but dresses and evoking the feeling of vibrancy and being young. With each look there was a body conscious sensibility with a hint of the 1980’s sentiment that was integrated. Experimentation was the key inspiration in some pieces with the abstract prints that were pieced together with solid colors of black, navy and pink. This gave a collage effect that was unique with the tucking and piecing of the two different fabrics. The vibrant colors in some pieces enthused a mood of excitement and youth into the collection. Spring was definitely in the air at BCBG Max Azria.

The event was held at the Bryant Park tents with model Patricia Van Der Vliet opening the show in a white draped dress that resembled a long t-shirt that was paired with a metallic clutch. Draping was prevalent on numerous dresses throughout the entire collection. There was also a few vibrant colored dresses that were cut short with a body conscious fit that came in tulle and ruched silks that were tightly bound enthusing a youthful sex appeal. Delicate metallic beading was seen on black and white chiffon dresses.

The appreciated pieces in the collection were the collage experimented dresses that had two different fabrics of abstract prints and the solid colors that were put together. The metallic beaded gowns were also greatly admired.

This collection may have not been the most innovative show this season in New York when we saw a hint of Max Azria’s other collection, Herve Leger, that was seen in the use of the ruched wrapped bandaged dresses. The draped dresses that resembled a t-shirt seemed a little lacking and looked like beachwear.

Max and Lubov Azria gave us a nice draft of Spring/Summer 2010 air with this collection’s fresh and youthful vibrancy. The next spring season is looking a lot more brighter and fun for the BCBG women. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anya Kazakova for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Julija Steponaviciute for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Anastasia Kuznetsova for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Dorothea Barth Jorgensen for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Gracie Carvalho for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Patricia Van Der Vliet for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jac for BCBG S/S 10

Stan Honda Photo: Model Marike Le Roux for BCBG S/S 10

Model of the Season: Karlie Kloss

2009-03-13T20:43:00.000-07:00

The model of the season is sixteen-year-old Supermodel Karlie Kloss who has definitely proved to everyone that she is the current sensation in every major fashion capital. Attending all the major fashion weeks that started in Paris with the Haute Couture, New York, London, Milan and a return to Paris for the ready to wear collections. She has managed to walk in almost 70 shows and also given the honor of opening and closing a great number of them. The crucial foundations for her success are genetics and her trademark walk. Kloss is a professional ballet dancer and she brings her grace and composure to the runways. A walk that has editors, photographers and designers excited giving her immense popularity. This is her third season working fashion week, not to mention during her first season she was an exclusive at Calvin Klein.

Kloss success has followed her into editorials, ad campaigns and magazine covers. She was recently shot by Steven Klein for the current Dolce & Gabbana ad campaign. Another impressive ad campaign was from Bulgari which she was photographed by Mario Sorrenti. Her editorials are seen in the pages of American Vogue, Vogue Italia, British Vogue, Vogue Germany, Vogue China, Numero, Numero Tokyo, 10 Magazine, I-D Magazine, Russh and Interview. She can be seen on the covers of American Teen Vogue, 10 Magazine, French Revue des Modes, Russh and Vogue Russia.

This young Supermodel talent is just the ordinary teenager from St. Louis, Missouri where she is currently a Sophomore in High School. Scouted at a local charity show in Missouri she was picked up by the Elite Model Management where her career took off. Last year she switched to Next Model Management the agency that currently represents her in New York, London, Milan and Paris.

Karlie Kloss is the new sensation in fashion and expect to see more of her in the future. She is a favorite model of many prestigious photographers, designers and editors. Kloss is an immense talent in fashion and is here to stay. -Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Photos: Courtesy of Next Model Management and Luca Bruno

Balmain F/W 09

2009-03-08T11:45:00.000-07:00

A pleasurable rocker chic presentation at Balmain. Clever French designer Christophe Decarnin presented an aggressive rocker chic collection for Balmain. This rocker look was completed with the Balmain brilliance in a French posh couture finish. He was also able to infuse the ideas of the late Pierre Balmain and give it a modern edge that is vastly appealing. The idea of rocker chic was apparent in the leather fabrics that were used in the pagoda shouldered motorcycle jacket, pelmet dresses and it was also attached on a few other looks. There was also a great love for an affluent amount of crystal and diamante embellishments on a vast number of pieces giving it that rocker glam impression. The idea was obvious with influences from the 1980’s in the pagoda shouldered jackets, micro dresses, bustier tops and trousers. At the moment, Decarnin is the most copied designer in the world today obvious by his amazing appeal that he infuses into the Balmain label. Rocker chic infused with the ideas of the late Pierre Balmain gives this collection remarkable elegance with an edge.

The Balmain show was the event of the season in Paris. The entrance to the venue was completely crowded with fan, media and paparazzi. There was no celebrities in sight and this event was all about the significant people in fashion and the hip fashion crowd that was all in attendance. The venue was held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel swimming pool, that was covered for the staging of the runway, it was incredible. The setting gave off a ambiance from Gianni Versace, in fact it was the same venue that the late Gianni Versace held his couture shows. The soundtrack for the show was a 1980’s disco themed with Donna Summer and Saturday Night Fever. Model Anna Selezneva opened the show in a sparkling black blouse with the Decarnin trademark pagoda shoulders and the new charcoal draped harem pants. The pagoda shouldered signature shape was also seen in a lot of dresses, shirts and jackets. The color palette was entirely in black, white, silver and with splashes of techno blue. There was a good dose of party dresses that were in leather and sparkling fabrics.

The 1980’s inspired cuffed suede boots with silver buckles supplemented various looks instilling a rock and roll edge. There was the occasional silver studded biker-belts that were added to a few looks.

The favorite pieces in the collection were the new Balmain skinny jeans in black denim that were cut off above the ankle perfectly fitting the models legs. The rocker party dresses in techno blue crystal embellished sparkling fabrics were very appealing and perfect for the rocker chic party girl. The Decarnin trademark pagoda shoulders were also marvelous in the leather biker and the tuxedo jacket.

Christophe Decarnin has substantiated the reason why he is the most coveted designer in the world. He infuses his fashion forward ideas with the quality and elegance from Balmain to create a fantastic collection. The Balmain girl is ready to have fun and enjoy her youth in a coveted piece by Decarnin. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Angela Lindvall for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Carmen Kass for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Erin Wasson for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Isabeli Fontana for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lara Stone for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anna Jagodzinska for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasa Vojnovic for Balmain F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sasha Pivovarova for Balmain F/W 09

Balenciaga F/W 09

2009-03-06T02:59:00.000-08:00

A luxurious exotic exploration at Balenciaga. Illustrious French designer Nicolas Ghesquière presented a glamorous collection for Balenciaga. This collection was entirely new direction from last season’s sci-fi presentation and this time around it was all about opulence and glamour. Ghesquière was simply inspired by a holiday vacation to India where he discovered his love for satin and draping, a fabric and a technique that he has never explored. The skirts were inspired by the ultra conservative sari with draping that was very voluminous and short unlike the overly covered traditional garment. The silhouette of the clothes had a 1980’s sensation with pieces like a printed satin blouse with wide shoulders that was open to a lace bandeau. He also managed to invoke the Cristobal Balenciaga archives from the 1950’s with the wrap and draped dresses in floral prints, spots and polka dots. The draped trousers that rippled delicately at the hips and tapered at the legs was a nod to the late Yves Saint Laurent, a designer that has been compared with due to his ability to feel and shape fashion. The decadent impression was evident with the draping of luxurious satin, velvet and printed silk fabrics that gave this collection an sumptuous and glamorous appeal.

The show was held in a salon at the Hotel de Crillon which is located at the north end of Place de la Concorde and at the foot of the Champs-Élysées. A completely different venue from the ordinary location at the Balenciaga Head Quarters on the Left Bank. The sparkling sunlight emitted light threw windows, floor to ceiling, and reflected the light marble floors giving it a pragmatic touch. The soundtrack for the show was from French musician Serge Gainsbourg. Model Liya Kebede opened the show in a grey sparkling Manharani top with a black and draped black and silver satin short skirt. The draped satin skirts came in various colors of light blue, black, brown, beige, pink, silver, emerald, navy and lilac. Devore velvet was used in the draped dresses and in the blouses with defined shoulders and plunging necklines.

Every season Ghesquière always gives us the shoe of the season and with no exception he offered an amazing fishnet covered platforms embellished with ribbons. On some footwear there was heels with unique marble prints from the Balenciaga archives. There were also the striking pair of spotted stockings that finished off each look with a glamorous sensation.

The admired pieces in the collection were the incredibly draped satin skirts that came in a variety of colors. Another look that was very appealing was the floral print silk dresses that were prints from the Cristobal Balenciaga archives. A must have piece was the gorgeous tailored black tuxedo jacket was impeccable.

Nicolas Ghesquière has polished the Balenciaga brand and supplemented a pleasant amount of sophistication to create this marvelous collection. The Balenciaga women this next winter season is ready to enjoy a pleasant amount of glamour and luxury. -Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Siri Tollerød for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sigrid Agren for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Liu Wen for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Ali Stephens for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anabela Belikova for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Hanne Gaby Odiele for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karmen Pedaru for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Liya Kebede for Balenciaga F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Iris Strubegger for Balenciaga F/W 09

Michael Kors F/W 09

2009-02-20T01:45:00.000-08:00

Michael Kors presents an all-American glamorous collection. Notable American designer Michael Kors gave us a luxurious dose of all American sportswear glamour for his fall collection. He always finds inspiration from films or always seems to have a theme for his collections but this time around he took his cue from reality. He presented clothes that were perfect for the Michael Kors clientele giving each piece a good injection of fine tailoring with a hint of sex appeal. He added a good quantity of the luxury aspect by throwing in lavish fur in the mix to kick the glamour factor to a whole new level. Adding to the main color scheme of black, gray, and tan fall colors he channeled the 1980’s to infuse a neon color scheme of shocking pink, caution orange and acid green. The neon colors were displayed in a shredded fox fur coat, knit scarves, furry hats and also in a few complete looks. The men’s pieces were very subtle with hints of neon displayed in scarves, ties and sweaters. The Michael Kors look is for any individual whether it is working in the corporate world or just simply walking down Fifth Avenue.

The show was held at the Bryant Park tents with soundtrack from the 1980’s British music talent Pet Shop Boys. Supermodel Carmen Kass opened the show in a black double breasted trench with storm-flaps paired with ankle boots and a bold gold chain choker. A perfect town and country look that would work for the new British clientele looking forward to shopping at London’s first new Michael Kors flagship store set to open in April on New Bond Street. The focus of the collection was on the elegance and tailoring of each piece giving it a luxurious undertone. Classic silhouettes were perceptible giving a nod to the 1980’s in pieces such as the pointed origami sleeves and the gabardine cigarette trousers that gave an illusion of an elongated look. The luxurious touches were seen in the black leather strapless seamed dress and the shredded fox fur coats.

The added accessories were luscious with the stunning gold chain chokers that injected a dose of opulence to each look. The scarves and ties that were offered in neon bright colors adjoined some enthusiasm into the men’s look. The furry hats that were offered in shocking pink, caution orange and acid green were incredible.

The whimsical neon colors put a smile on a lot of the audience’s face when they saw the shocking pink coat, acid green furry hat and a shocking orange sweater. The black leather and shocking pink strapless dresses were also favorite pieces that stood out in the collection. Each piece had great tailoring and good quality that could stand the test of time and last for many winter seasons.

Michael Kors has unquestionably satisfied the need for a luxurious all-American look with a hint from the 1980’s. Kors may not be avante garde or theatrical but he offers clothes that are practical and entirely ready to wear. The Michael Kors individual has a strong attitude ready to take on a distressed with luxurious style and maybe a fox fur coat. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Carmen Kass for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Isabeli Fontana for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Vlada Roslyakova for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Heidi Mount for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Terron Wood for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alana Zimmer for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Tanya Dziahileva for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Carmen Kass for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Yulia Kharlaponova for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Coca Rocha for Michael Kors F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Michael Kors F/W 09

Rodarte F/W 09

2009-02-20T01:41:00.000-08:00

Rodarte displays an avante garde interpretation of futurism. American designing duo Kate and Laura Mulleavy, who are sisters, presented a collection that had an avante garde touch of sci-fi and alien like commotion with great emphasis on texture and structure. They have also managed to stay true to their trademark aesthetic of mesh and match style. The encouragement for this idea was from Dutch photographer Ari Marcopoulas, who had his photos displayed on the show program. The images from Marcopoulas are black and white photos of city streets, stones, desert landscape and desolate debris. This stimulated the Mulleavy team to create a reinterpreted organic patchwork of pieces all made from deluxe fabric scraps of Lurex, lace, leather and netting. The pieces in the collection consisted of mostly of soft grays, apple green, pewter, silver and gold. Pale gray leather was printed and manipulated to look like veined gray stone. Little lizard belts, tops that were crisscrossed and shag wool boleros gave it that sci-fi feeling. The luxurious fabrics and handmade construction gave this collection couture like quality.

The show was held at the Gagosian Gallery on West 24th Street in Chelsea. The sci-fi sensation was perceptible on the backdrop with materials composed of fiber glass, raw planks and tin foiled that was molded to look futuristic. The soundtrack was solemn with music from Joy Division. Supermodel Sasha Pivovarova opened the show in a gray silk chiffon mini dress, resembling gray stone, was paired with light gray thigh boots with crossed leather lacing. There was a great number of assorted tunics with the organic patchwork gave it an avante garde appeal. Each look had a toughened up look with a metallic material that almost made it seem like sturdy indication of steel.

The makeup also added a gorgeous alien chic appeal to the look of the models that had the palest makeup with pale purple lipstick and tight pulled back hair. The Mulleavy sisters collaborated with the genius of sky-high heel designer Nicholas Kirkwood to make the striking thigh boots that came in light gray, pewter and black.
Admired pieces in the collection were the taut leather biker jackets that had lace and Swarovski crystals and lace that was entirely hand-stitched. The shag wool boleros were also very appealing and one of the most innovative pieces in the collection.

Kate and Laura Mulleavy have managed to present a thriving collection with couture like elements and an avante garde appeal. The Rodarte woman is ready to take on the future with great style and an amazing pair of Nicholas Kirkwood thigh boots. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jourdan Dunn for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Sasha Pivovarova for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Heidi Mount for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jessica Stam for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kamila Filipcikova for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Yulia for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Coco Rocha for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Alexa for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Marina Peres for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Rodarte F/W 09

Stan Honda Photo: Model Jules Mordovets for Rodarte F/W 09

Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

2009-02-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

The night club era of the 1980’s excites Marc Jacobs. Leave it up to celebrated American designer Marc Jacobs to throw the soiree of the season at New York Fashion Week. He presented a magnificent show that referenced the 1980’s clubbing era with the excitement and fun of getting dressed up. Jacobs reworked that idea and finished every piece with luxurious expensive fabrics which of course catered to the prosperous Marc Jacobs clientele. There were bright fluorescent colors such as canary yellow, bubblegum pink and tangy blue. These colors made reference to the late artist Stephen Sprouse who was known for pioneering the 1980’s uptown sophistication in clothing with downtown punk and receptivity. The sensibility from Jacobs in this collection longed for the fun times in New York which might have been due to the fact that he now lives in Paris full time. He gave us the essential party dresses in full flaring skirts with monster shoulders that came in floral brocades and metallic leather. A golden crushed velvet mini-skirt, a pink fuchsia dress paired with green tights might have been pieces that could have made an appearance at clubs like Paradise Garage and the Palladium. Every piece had a nostalgic touch referencing an era of fun times and creativity.

The show was held at the historic 69th Regiment Armory on Lexington Avenue in southern Manhattan. The venue was completely dark without the lavish setting instead the models walked on carpet trailed by a spotlight making this show all about the clothes rather than the staging. This was the show of the season and this time around it was completely exclusive with a guest list of only 500. There was no typical distraction from celebrities and the everyday people but consisted of a crowd of professionals, the press and buyers. Model Kamila Filipcikova opened the show in a simple grey cardigan sweater with a silk print scarf that was placed in between the collars of the sweater and was paired with charcoal trousers and a back half of a kilt. A started with a suttle hint from the 1980’s but when there was realization of the comeback from that era it was evident with the large Thierry Mugler inspired wide shoulders on the jackets, shirts and dresses. Dresses with a sweetheart neckline and puffed-out skirts in colors of bubblegum pink, canary yellow and black gave a 1980’s a flashback of the fun during those times.

This show was all about the amazing hair and Jacobs had a cast 60 models that all had different hairstyles that were either crimped, quaffed, backcombed into a beehive and hair buns stacked 30 centimeters (12 inches) high. The makeup referenced Duran Duran’s Rio cover album with metallic blue lips and kohl rimmed eyes. The shoes were also exceedingly eclectic with over the knee boots, patent shoes with rounded bows and silver balled heels. The irresistible padded bags were offered in purple, green and mauve.

The admired pieces in this collection were the wide shouldered jackets that came in black satin and gold jacquard. There was also the Jodhpur shaped trousers made in teal and purple completed in luxurious silk that were appealing. The puffy party dresses in bubble pink and lime seemed like a lot of fun and were great piece to feel good in.

Marc Jacobs has surprised us with collection that referenced an era in time when people enjoyed themselves and had fun with fashion. This successful collection was all about the clothes rather than the distractions that surround it. Perhaps this was a nostalgic kiss to the era that no longer exists. The Marc Jacobs woman is ready to have fun and enjoy herself with electrifying clothes this next winter season. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anastasija Kondratjeva for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Elsa Sylvan for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Irina Kulikova for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kamila Filipcikova for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Heidi Mount for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasa Vojnovic for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Eniko Mihalik for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kim Noorda for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Jac for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Daiane Conterato for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Uliana Tikhova for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Ines Crnokrak for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Hanne Gaby Odiele for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Amanda Laine for Marc Jacobs F/W 2009

Alexander Wang F/W 2009

2009-02-17T15:54:00.000-08:00

A thrilling medieval and glam rock influence permeates Alexander Wang. American designer Alexander Wang recently won the CFDA Women’s Wear Fashion Award and is currently the new phenomenal designer in New York at the moment. With that said, Wang presented a vibrant and cutting edge show that was quite extraordinary. His influence with this collection was inspired from medieval armor and glam rock. The medieval idea was used in the embellishments of the clothes and on some looks were metallic pieces were reminiscent of armor. On a few looks there was the glam rock element with Swarovski crystals and metal studs. The main color palette of this collection was black with hints of purple, gray and white. The luxurious touches were seen in fabrics of Australian merino wool, crocodile, bonanza and leather. Each look was very body conscious fitting the model for a hand in glove perfect fit. This collection had a more grown up aspect for Wang with the tailoring and luxury combined with a rock and roll edge.

The show was held at the historic Roseland Ballroom in the Theatre District on West 52nd Street. The venue had a rock and roll sensation with a red velvet theatre curtains for a backdrop and lighting fit for a rock concert with “Thriller,” from Michael Jackson playing on the soundtrack for the show. This show was the most talked about of the season brining in major critic from Europe to attend. Supermodel Natasha Poly opened the show in a black tailored jacket with sleeves embellished with cubed metal rivets paired with black calf length leggings and black leather ankle boots. The rocker enthuse pieces were vastly cutting edge with a body conscious fit and unique cut outs. There were the matador pants with studded metal trim that gave it that medieval and rock and roll sensation.

The one shouldered purple and black bandage dresses were the most coveted pieces in the collection that were cut perfectly in high tech finished silk jersey. There were also the luxurious touches of Australian merino wool and crocodile that were stunning. Added metal studs and crystal embellishments gave each piece an edgy look that was chic but still maintained that glam rock sensation.

Alexander Wang has presented a triumphant collection inspired from the elements of medieval armor and the glam rock impression. The hippest new designer of the moment with this collection Wang truthfully lives up to his new reputation. The Alexander Wang women this next fall winter season is self confident with an edgy attitude. –Brent Billiman, New York City, USA.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Edita Vilkeviciute for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anna Selezneva for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anja Rubik for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Natasha Poly for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karlie Kloss for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karolin Wolter for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Liu Wen for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Tao Okamoto for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kim Noorda for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Isabeli Fontana for Alexander Wang F/W 09

Male Model of the Season: Tyler Riggs

2009-02-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

It has been quite the season for American male model Tyler Riggs who has walked in every major show in Milan and Paris. He is unquestionably the current star of the season photographed by Mario Testino for this past fall’s D&G Ad campaign. He has also had an impressive editorial season working with every major magazine that include V Magazine, Details, GQ Germany, Hercules, I-D, L’Officiel Hommes, Another Man, Numero Homme, Contributing Editor and Vogue Pelle.

Riggs alliance with modeling was accidental when a friend from college photographed him for a school project. The images that were taken came out exceptional and he was encouraged to model professionally. He soon joined Red Model Management in New York where his modeling career catapulted into seeing him everywhere in the industry.

Expect to see more of Tyler Riggs in the future. He just had a thriving show season and was recently photographed by John Scarisbrick for Diesel’s S/S 2009 Ad campaign. He is the current male model of the season with a bright future ahead. -Brent Billiman

*Photos Courtesty of Red Model Management, Mario Testino and Luca Bruno*

Chanel Haute Couture S/S 2009

2009-01-28T23:00:00.000-08:00

A chic and innovative collection derived from the love of paper at Chanel Haute Couture. Chanel Courtier Karl Lagerfeld presented a heavenly collection that was inspired from a simple piece of white paper. He believed that everything creative starts out on a clean white sheet of paper and evolves into something like a story or painting. With that idea he transformed his dream into an innovative collection. With the help of a complete full staff at the Chanel atelier Lagerfeld’s vision was transformed to create a truly beautiful collection. With a color palette that consisted predominately of white, Coco Chanel’s favorite color, there were also hints of black in the collection. Every piece had impeccable detailing and all the outfits were able to translate the light weight sensation of paper as if they were made of delicate paper. The use of sheer materials was particularly outstanding with the tough tulle that was used in the flower and feather details on a number of pieces. This collection was all about luxurious detailing that one could never imagine unless they have touched or tried on a Chanel Haute Couture outfit. The expert work from the atelier was evident in the embroidery and hand stitching in the made to measure pieces that sparkled elegantly from tiny crystalline beads and sequins. Lagerfeld gave us an innovative modern collection that works perfect for the upcoming spring season.

The show was held at the Pavillon Cambon Capucines, a former bank, which was located right across from the Chanel headquarters on rue Cambon. The setting was quite smaller giving it and intimate experience unlike the grandeur location, the Grand Palais, where it would have been difficult to see the exquisite details and craftsmanship. The room was completely decorated in thousands of virgin white paper flowers, bouquets and laser cut table cloths. An immense team of 50 laborers worked hard for two weeks in order to produce the extravagant décor that embellished the staircase and every pillar in the venue. The show opened with Supermodel Freja Beha Erichsen in a gorgeous virgin white razor cut A-line dress paired with a cropped jacket that had squared off shoulders and a stand away collar. Adding to the simple elegant look was a beautiful white head piece made of paper flowers and doilies. There was a dose of long and lean dresses with feathery strips of chiffon and shimmering sequins. The contrasting color of black was injected into the threading and stitching on a few looks but it was later seen in complete looks towards the finale of the show.

Lagerfeld collaborated with enormously talented Japanese Hair dresser Katsuya Kamo who created the head pieces, caps and hair ornaments all from paper. Kamo constructed paper roses, leaf fronds, the Chanel camellia and feathers. The raw cuts made on the floral pieces were accustomed to the entire collection finishing off each look consisting of both white and black colors.

The stunning futuristic bride presented at the finale of the show was breathtaking and absolutely gorgeous. The virgin white bride ensemble came in razor cut pants that was paired with a white paper rose head dress that wrapped around the head. The train of the dress was extravagant with an opulent 20 foot train that was flowing down the runway. Lagerfeld proved to everyone that couture is just not about dresses it is also about pants.

Karl Lagerfeld with the help of the Chanel atelier team has created an amazing collection from an innovative idea that has never been seen before in fashion. Derived from a simple concept and the favorite color of the late Mademoiselle Coco Chanel was all it took to master a craftsmanship that shows no sign of disappearing. With each piece there is a display of great love for made to wear craftsmanship and the love of Haute Couture at its very best. –Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Magdalena Frackowiak for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Anouck Lepere for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lindsay Ellingson for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Tatiana Lyadochkina for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Siri Tollerød for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Pinkie for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Alexandra Tomlinson for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Vlada Roslyakova for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Charlotte di Calypso for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Sasha Pivovarova for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Karmen Pedaru for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Edita Vilkeviciute for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Freja Beha Erichsen for Chanel Haute Couture S/S 09

Christian Dior Haute Couture S/S 2009

2009-01-28T10:54:00.000-08:00

More Dior than Dior is what John Galliano pervaded at Christian Dior Haute Couture. British Couturier John Galliano presented a remarkable Haute Couture collection that was straight out of a painting and the archives of the late Monsieur Dior. Galliano had researched the archives for this collection and referenced Dior’s celebrated 1947 show and infused it with the love of extravagant art work. He evoked the trademark Dior skirt suit along with silhouettes and volumes from that era. The art work that inspired him was from the renowned Flemish artist Anthony Van Dyck and Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. Vermeer encouraged the bright color palette of cornflower blue, cream white and yellow. There were a few pieces looked as if they came right out of Van Dyck painting with the oversized laced collars, bodices that were cinched and voluminous sleeves. Galliano inculcated the ideas and intertwined them into a masterful well constructed manner in an atelier. The intricate detailing demonstrates the extraordinary construction of a big team of craftsmen and women that have assembled each look. Exquisite details were seen in the embroidery, hand beading and on some pieces hand painting. Reminiscent of the paintings from the referenced artist each piece in this collection had evolved into an actual work of art.

The show was held at the magnificent Hotel Biron in the Musée Rodin, a museum with works of art from Vincent van Gogh and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. A beautiful stained glass backdrop was propped at end of the runway with colors from Van Dyck and Vermeer’s paintings. The soundtrack was from Carla Bruni-Sarkozy latest album, “Comme Si de Rien N'Etait,” set the feeling for the show. Model Charlotte di Calypso opened the show in a chrome yellow tight-waist full skirt with billowing puff shoulders and an oversized Guipure laced collar. Similar pieces with that Dior skirt suit were also seen in colors of cornflower blue, ivory, black and burnt red. Every piece had a distinct and unique look with intricate detailing that was exceptionally exquisite. A sunny pink gown with a cinched waist and a full skirt looked like it came right out of Vermeer’s painting, “The girl with a wineglass.” This dress was a gorgeous piece that Galliano brought to life and transformed into a wearable form of art.

Decadent hats that looked very light and seemed like they could float away were paired on various looks adding a bit of Flemish drama. Beautiful pearl necklaces embellished a few necklines giving homage to Vermeer’s painting, “Girl with Pearl Earrings.” The shoes had a scroll design pedestal heel and matched each look it was paired with.

The most admired pieces of the show were the lineup of six finale ball gowns that was tremendously impressive. Long difficult hours, hard work and the great number of people it took just to make each piece are evident in the quality of the gown. These gowns give the true meaning of Haute Couture with the essentials elements of quality, value, cut and a hint of imagination.

Legendary artists Anthony Van Dyck and Johannes Vermeer would have been completely satisfied with this marvelous collection from John Galliano. An absolute mastermind he managed to bring a few characters from their paintings to life and applied the trademark colors to this collection successfully. The Christian Dior Haute Couture woman is exquisite and has great love for the arts. –Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Elena Melnik for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Heloise Guerin for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Chanel Iman for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Lily Donaldson for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Charlotte di Calypso for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Laura Blokhina for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Kasia Struss for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Georgina Stojilkovic for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Tanya Dziahileva for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Bruna Tenorio for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Milana Keller for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Alexandra Agoston for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Alexandra Tretter for Dior Haute Couture S/S 09

Lanvin Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-27T15:15:00.001-08:00

Lanvin presented an elegant and well constructed collection in Paris. Dutch designer Lucas Ossendrijiver, with the help of mentor Alber Elbez, presented a romantic collection that was extraordinarily constructed. There was the signature Lanvin feeling that Ossendrijiver infused in each piece giving it that lived in quality without ever feeling like they were off the rack. This collection was completely sophisticated and simple without tremendous effort. A subdued color palette was toned down a bit offering colors of black, grey, tan, army green and plum. Fabrics had a fastidious blend of traditional luxury with signature elements that left the seams, hems and darts visible. The cuts were made wide in the suits and jackets but they remained agile with a narrow silhouette. The double and single breasted jackets were extremely alluring and the wide legged pants flowed lavishly in ripples. The clothes were all about the comforts of luxury and the dramatic effect of how the clothes flowed from the body. Ossendrijiver has given us a simple yet effortless sophisticated collection without forgetting the signature Lanvin sensation.

The show was held at a different venue from last season and this time around it was staged in a school gymnasium. Dramatic soundtrack from American minimalist composer, Philip Glass, set the emotion for the collection. The first look that opened the show was a relaxed trench coat with a belt that cinched the waist paired with free flowing trousers. The look was completed with a sinuous touch with the side swept scarf and the woolen beanie hat. A slight hint of military was evident in the first half of the show giving it a meek masculine sensation. The exhausted luxury idea was seen in the trench coats and ribbon woven pants completed in a manner that never made them look droopy or overdone. The pants were very relaxed this time around almost having the ease and free flowing sensation of track pants, but of course heaps more chic than track pants.

Lanvin offered the woolen beanie hat that came in a variety of colors from black, grey, navy, green, tan and plum. The on trend must have piece for next season was the array of combat boots that was offered. The chic accessory that completed the Lanvin look was the signature silk scarf that was tied to the side.

The wide legged pants that dramatically fell in luxurious ripples were the most admired pieces in the collection that area a breath of fresh air from the overly tailored pants that seemed a little restricting. The suits and jackets that were cut wide that was exceptionally supple but maintained a narrow silhouette were especially appealing. The variety of combat boots and silk scarves gave a special touch to numerous looks making it must have pieces for the next winter season.

Lucas Ossendrijiver, with the help of Alber Elbez, has completed a successful collection for Lanvin while maintaining the signature appeal and infusing a hint of masculinity. Ossendrijiver has successfully accomplished the idea of combining fragility and masculinity. The Lanvin man will be incredibly relaxed this next winter season. –Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Lanvin F/W 2009

John Galliano Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-26T15:28:00.000-08:00

Too much is never enough at John Galliano. British designer John Galliano presented a unique collection straight out of a fantasy for his menswear collection in Paris. The show had the essential theatrical elements of a Galliano show while adding a little fun and taking some risks. Galliano is without doubt different from other menswear designers when he takes inspiration from women’s wear but applies it in an overtly masculine way giving it a masculine enthusiasm. The 18th century secret society known as the hell fire club, contemporary street wear and art work from Rembrandt were the various inspirations for this inimitable collection. With this collection we saw minutemen from the revolutionary war in swashbuckler boots, tricolored hats and long-tailed jackets adding to the 18th century twist. There were also the dreadlocked pirates, decadent lawyers, restoration scalawags and the sexed up men from the Midsummer Night. Proper business men were given some much needed sex appeal by going completely business on top and almost naked on the bottom. Galliano has added some much needed zest to menswear by taking risks and having a little fun.

The show was staged in an enormous venue in a corroded train depot were several thousand votive candles illuminated the red glittered runway. The soundtrack was from the British drama film, Slumdog Millionaire, set the emotion for the show. Model Scott Barnhill opened the event with a tan long tailed jacket, chocolate colored Jodhpur trousers and swashbuckler boots. Adding to the 18th century touch was the tricorn hat and the powdered George Washington inspired wig. The Galliano Gazette, Galliano’s own newspaper design, was also added in this collection. It was used in the brigand’s bomber jackets, dressing gowns and aristocrat’s oratory coats. There were the special gazette prints that were seen in the sexy silk boxers as well.

Admired pieces in the collection were the low crotched trousers that had full hips that were tapered slim, another version had fur trim embellishing the hips and thighs, were magnificent. There was also great love for the remarkable highwayman coats and the long tailed jackets. A favorite look on the theme of men in the show would have to be the naughty Midsummer Night’s look with the painted chest hair and six pack abs on their torsos.

John Galliano has given us one of the best menswear collections to date with this brilliant show. A touch of dandy and glam is all that Paris needed to have a little fun. The Galliano man is willing to take a risk and ready to have a little fun this next winter season. –Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Scott Barnhill for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Galliano F/W 2009

Yohji Yamamoto Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-26T15:24:00.001-08:00

Yohji Yamamoto transformed sleepwear into street wear. Avante garde Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto had an apparition right before he went to sleep and came up with a luminous idea and reflected that vision into his collection. He believed that the most luxurious moment for him was right before going to sleep and with that in mind he decided to create this collection of converting night attire for street wear. Oversized pajama suits came in colors of navy and white polka dots paired with a trench coat or a blazer. There was also an enormous amount of attention paid to the underwear, kilts and leggings. Boxers and underwear were made in silks and came in a pin-stripe or prints of tigers and snakes. Yamamoto added his unique avante garde touch and had the models wear the underwear on the outside over the pants and the leggings. The kilt was mildly awkward and there was the culottes, resembles a skirt and was at knee-length, that were worn over leggings and paired with bulky jackets and long redingote overcoat. Yamamoto took lounge wear to a whole new level and added a luxurious comfort to street wear.

The show was held at Les Halles in Yamamoto’s European headquarters show room. Along with a casting of models were a few inferior looking men that were unshaven and bearded adding a special avante garde touch. The show opened with a black wool blazer and an ankle length kilt paired with fluffy slippers and a black fedora. A look that seemed to have a hint of orthodox priest enthused in it but had the comfortable touch once the blazer was removed. References to bed wear chic were also seen in a bathrobe made to look like an overcoat and a quilted comforter altered into a jacket. A couple of coats were worn inside out adding to the idea of inside wear turned outside, that might have had a message that the Yamamoto man has nothing to hide with this collection.

Admired pieces in the collection would have to be the comfortable and luxurious oversized silk pajamas that came in navy and white polka dots. Another unique piece was Yamamoto’s wool cardigan overcoat and the chunky sweater that it was paired with. The oversized jackets were also exceptionally appealing.

Yohji Yamamoto has luminously transformed sleepwear to street wear with this collection adding his own personal avante garde touch. This collection gives a comfortable and relaxed touch for the next winter season. The Yamamoto man is comfortable and ready to bring his sleep attire to the streets and along with him to work. –Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Yamamoto F/W 2009

Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-23T13:49:00.000-08:00

A ready to travel collection presented at Louis Vuitton. Studio director of menswear at Louis Vuitton, Paul Helbers, displayed a collection that was perfect for the globetrotting traveler. Helbers was inspired by Africa and the traveling wardrobe of a King. The African influences were perceptible in the color palette with shades of orange and tarnished reds. The focal colors were mostly dark consisting of black, grey, midnight and ink blue. Fabrics for the most part were vacation friendly and cut slim to fit the body with an aerodynamic shape giving off an urban European flair that was exceptionally sleek. The attire was not the typical over the top glamour but rather an understated elegance for a certain amount of international elite that enjoys obscurity. The collection had a nice dose of sophistication in the nylon spy anoraks with cashmere inserts and a shaved LV Damier check mink topcoat. The cuts were astounding in the woolen overcoats, puffer jackets and car coats. The Louis Vuitton man is prepared to jump on any first class flight anywhere in the world.

The show was held at a new venue on the north side of Paris with a simplistic atmosphere in slate grey runway and a dark grey background. The soundtrack from Cape Verdean singer, Cesária Évora, gave the show an African sensation. The show opened with a black sporty nylon anorak trench paired with an indigo blue v-neck sweater and grey loose cut pants. There was a great amount of astounding razor cut blazers and the loose cut pants seen throughout the entire collection. The 1854 officer’s mess coat style coat had an incredible cut and was made in alligator, crocodile, antelope and wool. Each piece was exceedingly clean cut but not overly restrictive giving it a liberated sense, perfect for traveling.

This collection was all about the bags and the debut of the collaboration with American music artist Kanye West, who designed a number of high top sneakers. The sneakers had the trademark Louis Vuitton logo embossed on them and came in colors of red, white, beige, black and blue. A design that West was profoundly pompous of and sat front row watching the models debut them. The bags on the other hand were impressive giving us a new logo bag with a six-sided patch resembling a soccer ball. Oversized scarves that were made of silk and wool replaced the tie in the neckwear of choice.

The most admired piece in the collection was the 1854 officer’s mess coat that was made in a lavish crocodile. The loose cut trousers that were displayed in an array of dark colors were extremely appealing. The variety of bags and totes should help feed the current obsession with man bags.

Paul Helbers successfully translated his idea of how an African King would travel the world. Presenting pieces that were carefree and understated while maintaining the luxury appeal was a marvelous touch. The Louis Vuitton next winter season is ready to travel the world and live like a King. –Brent Billiman, Paris, France.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Louis Vuitton Men's F/W 2009

Alexander McQueen Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-22T23:03:00.000-08:00

Alexander McQueen displayed a backstreet pugilistic chic collection in Milan. Prominent English designer Alexander McQueen presented a collection that was dedicated to the obsession with the 19th century Victorian aristocrat backstreet fighter. In light of this fascination, McQueen titled the show, “The McQueensberry Rules.” This gave an indistinguishable name that was similar to the man that set the rules for boxing, Marquis of Queensberry. An impression from Daniel Day Lewis’s Bill the Butcher in the film, Gangs of New York was exceedingly apparent. McQueen gave this rough guy a chic look that had a posh twist with incredible tailoring, perhaps a skill he learned from his training at Savile Row. The exceptionally tailored suits were made with Harris Tweed and had an Edwardian style touch cut very slim to sculpt the body. The silhouettes of the pieces had an exceedingly muscular top and were tapered at the ankles. A sensual nuance was perceptible in the butcher’s apron made entirely in leather giving a feeling of S&M. A suggestion from Jean Paul Gautier was clear in the four piece suits and also the codpieces that covered the crotch in some looks. The McQueensberry man was armed and prepared to take on a street or pub brawl.

McQueen’s vision came to life with the scenery of the show that almost felt like an actual murky corner of Victorian East London. The gas street lamps were burning supplementing emphasis on that backstreet emotion. McQueen also included a cast of several professional boxers that walked alongside the models. The show opened with a black knee length fur coat over a black short coat paired with a suit. The added touches to finish this look were dashing stylish homburgs short hats, silver topped shillelaghs, black shoes and hands wrapped in orange cotton. There was immense attention paid to the coat offering various colors in trenches, sturdy wool coats and rippled frockcoats that slipped off the shoulders like a cape. Each look was remarkable having melodramatic commotion with a tough guy appeal.

The Homburg short hats came in a variety of colors of black, navy, tan and brown. The combats boots were outstanding and on key with the latest Milan trend. The shillelaghs were an added touch that was really made this entire look come together and would have been perfect to use as a weapon in a pugilistic manner.

The pieces of choice were the slim-cut Harris Tweed Edwardian style suits that perfectly sculpted the body in all the right places. Dapper frockcoats that slipped off the shoulders looked like a flowing cape. There were plenty of remarkable pieces in this collection and they could all be taken apart and stand alone like the six pocket combat pants, four button jackets and the shirts with the short collar.

Alexander McQueen makes flight of his imagination and turns it into reality with this brilliant collection. He executed this collection with extraordinary articulate pieces with great tailored quality. The McQueensberry man is a tough guy with incredible style ready to defend himself. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for McQueen F/W 2009

Moschino Men's Fall 2009

2009-01-21T23:55:00.000-08:00

A surreal impression stimulates Moschino. Rossella Jardini displayed a witty and fun collection providing a careful amount of vivacity to Milan. She was inspired by the late Belgian surrealist artist, René Magritte, who was known for his amusing and thought-provoking images. Magritte’s motivation was perceptible when each model sported a bowler hat, an obsessive piece that was displayed countless times in his art work. Surrealist touches were seen on various pieces with black and white photocopy prints that gave an impression of something else. A classic blazer looked like a leather biker jacket and sweater had a faux pen with eyeglasses woven on it making it look realistic. In addition, Jardini gave reference to the traditional English menswear with clean cut tailored suits and striped ties. There was also hint of military in a number jackets and combat boots. Moschino gave a clean modern look that was appropriately fitting for a proper British gent.

The feeling of surrealism played out on the invitation for the show with catchphrase, “feel surreal,” with a faceted detachable mustache. The show opened with a navy double breasted coat with a white crisp shirt paired with navy trousers with sky blue stripes. There also the inspired Magritte bowler hat and black wingtip shoes. The stripes played out in many other pieces such as lining of the hoods, trousers, ties and complete suits. Coats were very prominent with traditional outerwear, a poncho and a fur parka with some structural form. Surrealism was outstanding in the white t-shirt that was outlined of jacket with a bow tie made to give the illusion of a tuxedo.

The laced and zippered combats boots had a military sense was absolutely striking and gave each look some panache. The Magritte bowler hats were outstanding and came in colors of black, charcoal grey, navy and white. Leather riding gloves also gave a chic touch to various looks and matched the boots and shoes.

The admired piece in the collection was the classic blazer that was printed to look like a leather biker jacket. Pleasant pieces were the fine tailored traditional suits with various colored stripes. The must have pieces are the laced and zippered combat boots.

Rosella Jardini has evoked the spirit of the great surrealist artist René Magritte with a remarkable collection. The late Franco Moschino would have been proud to see that his former assistant Jardini has maintained his great elements of keeping the collection witty, lively and colorful. The Moschino man next winter season is ready to have fun with great clever style. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model Vincent Lacroq for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Moschino F/W 2009

Vivienne Westwood Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-21T23:48:00.000-08:00

Vivienne Westwood gives a little excitement with gardening in Milan. Leave it up to legendary English designer Vivienne Westwood to spark some pleasure into fashion. Drowned from a sea of completely black clothes shown in Milan, she presented a colorful upbeat collection. This time around she led us down the path of the enchanting world of gardening. With that clever idea in mind, she was completely inspired by her very own personal gardener. Westwood transformed ordinary garden attire and recreated it into playful and fun pieces. There was exciting colorful knit pieces and kilts that gave it some flamboyance. With a garden theme collection, there has to be something floral, she gave us subversive floral adorned prints. Always an innovator she integrated the laser cutting technique and created chic leggings and tank tops. Westwood’s idea of wearing clothes to make you look and feel good is perceptible with this gardening collection.

The show started off with great anticipation and a modeling debut of Westwood’s very own personal gardener, Andy, who came all the way from England. Andy opened the show what is believed to be the same attire he would be sporting in Westwood’s garden. He wore a masculine black leather work jacket, a quilted plaid oversized vest, khaki colored work pants paired with work gloves and boots. After a look at Westwood’s muse for the collection the show evolved into pieces that were more playful. Great pieces such as fitted jackets were paired with plaid shirts. A sheep skin bomber jacket and a green padded blazer were distinctive.

The playful pieces were incredible and made a clear statement, with beyond doubt exciting. The admired pieces were the outstanding well cut suits, done up Westwood style with a hint of quirkiness, perfect for work. The flower print combat boots were remarkable and would spruce up any look giving it eccentricity.

Vivienne Westwood has certainly infused some garden fresh air into Milan. Who knew all it would take to create a successful collection was to get inspired by the gardener. The Westwood man is all about having fun and getting a little dirty in the wonderful world of gardening. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Westwood Gardener Andy for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2009

Prada Men's F/W 2009

2009-01-21T23:45:00.000-08:00

Prada presents a brilliant collection focused on survival. Miuccia Prada took an unusual direction from last season, the idea of toying with fragility, and kept it strong. The entirely black and grey palette collection had impeccably tailored wool suits and calf length coats. A slight hint of authoritarian sentiment was pretty much obvious in the shoulder top coats. Prada was motivated by the current situation that Europe is facing with the economic crisis. She titled this show, “Survival,” and displayed pieces with a tough masculine impression. Metal studs were embellished on jackets, shirts, pants and shoes to give it a tough look. Prada’s complex thought process confirms the intelligence of this marvelous designer. Armed for the current world situation the Prada man is ready to endure any difficult situation within the world arena.

The show was held at the Prada headquarters show space and transformed into a tight circular space that had charcoal grey colored carpet, giving it a claustrophobic atmosphere. Lighting was casted high from above the ceilings to show the shadow upon the models faces. The soundtrack was by Frederic Sanchez with the help of Anne Clark’s vocals that set the mood. The first look that opened the show was a charcoal colored double breasted suit that was paired with a black collarless shirt and a black oxford. Simplicity and keeping it strong followed each look thereafter void of any prints and the most prominent pieces had a v-neckline. Leather was seen in the laser cut duster coats, wool lined sweater and pants. Metal studs on jackets, inside stripes of tailored shirts, sweaters, pants and shoes were exceptional making this collection distinctive.

The bags were simply striking with immense space and style. The tasseled headband in one look will most likely start trends, expect to a lot of men sporting a similar look next winter. The metal studded brogues and wingtip shoes were brilliant and edgy, a fashionista must have.

Admired pieces in the collection were the laser cut duster coats, wool lined sweaters bonded with leather, and metal studded striped tailored shirts. The metal studded pieces were unique and a favorite amongst the buyers and stylist. Prada did a superb job this season and everything in the collection was pleasant.

Miuccia Prada is truly intelligent and with this collection it is evident. The Prada man is strong and ready to face the harsh world this next winter season.
–Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Luca Bruno Photo: Model for Prada F/W 2009

Dolce & Gabbana F/W 2009

2009-01-21T23:11:00.000-08:00

Complete sophistication at Dolce & Gabbana. Celebrated design duo, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, created a completely sophisticated collection for the next winter season. Going back to the basics the entire collection had the classic Dolce & Gabbana DNA with pure tailored pieces. There was a feeling from the traditional Italian period giving reference to the Rat Pack era and a new line of t-shirts that gave homage to the Italian Stallion, Rocky Balboa. In the opening of the show, the black and white pieces paired with flat caps, gave a vibe from the legendary Italian film director, Roberto Rossellini. Without doubt there was suggestion towards hard economic times in Italian history. This collection was all about keeping it sophisticated with pure class.

The show began with a display of overhead video, “Intrecciato.” The video depicted the process of the weaving technique that created the most magnificent pieces in the collection. The staging was a completely black atmosphere with the Killer’s latest single, “Human”, setting the soundtrack. Noah Mills opened the show in a refined black tailored suit paired with a crisp white shirt, black skinny tie and a flat cap. The color black dominated the main color scheme throughout the entire collection. Following from last spring’s pajama chic emerged quilted pants and jackets that looked comfortable yet quirky. There was a splash of colors in red, pink and fuchsia that gave this collection a burst of liveliness in an entirely black collection.

The light pink and fuchsia also made its way on to the loafers and gave an entirely basic black, grey and brown look a little edge. There was also the astonishing array of crocodile bags that will be the next mandatory accessories for the next winter season for men.

The admired pieces were the black crocodile motorcycle jacket that will most likely be sold out before it hits the show rooms. The quirky quilted pants and jackets were the best pieces in the collection and came in basic black, blue and light pink.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana went back to the origins of the brand and refined it to complete sophistication. Expect to see a distinguished Dolce & Gabbana man for the next winter season. –Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.

Stan Honda Photo: Model Antonio Navas for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model Noah Mills for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model David Gandy for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model Oliver Altman for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model Travis Davenport for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model Ryan Vigilant for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce F/W 2009

Stan Honda Photo: Model for Dolce F/W 2009