Israeli shoe designers, like other designers in this country, sometimes have to abandon their vision because of the limited supply of certain imported materials. But Maya Levi, the founder and designer of Olive Thomas shoes, demonstrates in her summer collection that when there's no snakeskin in the supply closet, a dash of creativity can be enough to create a textured look.
Levi took the standard cowhide and rather less standard goatskin, which is known for being particularly soft, and cut out shapes in the leather to create a multilayered look for the 15 designs in the collection.
"I have created new textures from the existing leathers," said Levi.
The designer said she was motivated to wield the leather-cutting knife designed especially for her both because she wants to be immersed in "the smallest details" of the shoes and as a way of dealing with what she calls the larger problem: "the limited supply of leathers coming into Israel."
The result is different from Levi's usual line. In a pair of open oxfords in mint green, for example, Levi has superimposed two layers of leather and perforated both layers with small circles that allow a glimpse of the foot and look as though they have been cut by a laser.
The play of transparencies can be seen in other designs as well. Levi's pointy-toed black and red flats, for example, are more delicately perforated, with one layer of leather peeping out from under another layer of a different color and texture.
Another feature of this collection, and a piece of good news for those who like their shoes to have a classically feminine touch, is the return of the heel.
Though some of Levi's shoes can look rather masculine, her current line has several designs with six-centimeter to eight-centimeter heels. A pair of high-heeled sandals in powder pink leather with vertical slits looks quite feminine, without forcing the wearer to totter around on narrow stilettos. The heels are stable and well-built on a slant, allowing for easy and pleasant walking.
That element of comfort is also evident in the soft leather linings that help prevent blisters and discomfort, making a closed-toe shoe feel like a glove for the foot even though it looks narrow.
The collection as a whole is characterized by attention to detail. But this time you won't need to choose between comfortable shoes and beautiful, colorful and innovative heels. In her latest collection, Maya Levi gives us both.
2012年6月19日星期二
2012年6月12日星期二
The Duchess of Cambridge ‘doesn’t need style advice’
Louboutin’s red-soled shoes are a favourite choice for a host of celebrities from Coleen Rooney to Victoria Beckham, but he insists Kate doesn’t need high fashion to make her interesting.
“She has all the choice in the world,” he told vogue.co.uk. “She’s a very elegant young woman. I wouldn’t give her any advice – she doesn’t need it, let her choose for herself. She’s a big girl now.”
Kate has gained much praise for her contemporary style and has transformed undiscovered brands into household names.
‘The Duchess Effect’ has been credited with giving the UK economy an astonishing ￡2 billion boost with high street brands Reiss, LK Bennett, Zara and even George at Asda having benefitted from the Kate’s outfit choices.
Louboutin’s compliment comes not long after he launched a sharp-tongued attack on women who struggle to walk in his skyscraper heels.
The designer previously told Grazia Magazine that it didn’t matter to him if women were in pain when they wore his shoes but that they should look elegant.“If you can’t walk in them, then don’t wear them,” was his black and white advice.
Addressing the quote in his latest interview with Vogue, Louboutin said he had been misquoted as far as his designs go.
“People say I am the king of painful shoes. I don’t want to create painful shoes, but it is not my job to create something comfortable. I try to make high heels as comfortable as they can be, but my priority is design, beauty and sexiness,” he added. “I’m not against them, but comfort is not my focus.”
Louboutin is currently celebrating his 20th anniversary in fashion and is the subject of an extensive retrospective exhibition at London’s Design Museum.
Not that we needed Louboutin’s blessing to lust over Kate’s style choices!
“She has all the choice in the world,” he told vogue.co.uk. “She’s a very elegant young woman. I wouldn’t give her any advice – she doesn’t need it, let her choose for herself. She’s a big girl now.”
Kate has gained much praise for her contemporary style and has transformed undiscovered brands into household names.
‘The Duchess Effect’ has been credited with giving the UK economy an astonishing ￡2 billion boost with high street brands Reiss, LK Bennett, Zara and even George at Asda having benefitted from the Kate’s outfit choices.
Louboutin’s compliment comes not long after he launched a sharp-tongued attack on women who struggle to walk in his skyscraper heels.
The designer previously told Grazia Magazine that it didn’t matter to him if women were in pain when they wore his shoes but that they should look elegant.“If you can’t walk in them, then don’t wear them,” was his black and white advice.
Addressing the quote in his latest interview with Vogue, Louboutin said he had been misquoted as far as his designs go.
“People say I am the king of painful shoes. I don’t want to create painful shoes, but it is not my job to create something comfortable. I try to make high heels as comfortable as they can be, but my priority is design, beauty and sexiness,” he added. “I’m not against them, but comfort is not my focus.”
Louboutin is currently celebrating his 20th anniversary in fashion and is the subject of an extensive retrospective exhibition at London’s Design Museum.
Not that we needed Louboutin’s blessing to lust over Kate’s style choices!
2012年6月5日星期二
"Seth in the City" is not a hit
Here’s a handy guide to etiquette for politicians inviting people to campaign fund-raisers:
It’s quirky but acceptable to ask women to "dress like a star and put on your sexiest shoes."
It’s much more of a problem to have the campaign email employees at work to say their boss would love it if they attended and urged them to invite other staffers to tag along.
So it goes for "Seth in the City," the Wednesday evening fundraiser for District Attorney Seth Williams, modeled on the HBO show "Sex and the City."
Lisette Gonzalez, executive director for Williams’ political action committee last week emailed 34 of his staffers with the rank of deputy or chief, advising them that city ethics rules allow them to attend the fundraiser and contribute to their boss’s bid for a second term in 2013.
"I know for a fact, Seth would love it you could attend and support his event next week," Gonzalez wrote in her email.
That looks like macing -- pressuring public employees for campaign money -- according to Sam Stretton, an attorney for Williams’ campaign.
Gonzalez and Tasha Jamerson, a spokeswoman for the DA, said Williams did not know about or approve the email before it was sent. The email was first reported by The Legal Intelligencer Tuesday.
"You can’t go and put subtle pressure on staff to contribute. That’s illegal," Stretton said Tuesday. "I just think Seth has to realize that he’s in the big-time. He has to get his campaign staff a little better organized."
Gonzalez took the blame, saying Williams set her straight.
"I was hoping that we would get responses and I would surprise him with some of his chiefs and deputies being there," she said. "From here on out, I’m not to send any campaign related material to anybody [with a District Attorney’s office email]."
Gonzalez said she hasn’t seen "a whole lot of staff support" at campaign fund-raisers while lamenting as "sad" the fact that her email was leaked to the media.
The fundraiser invitation says it is black tie optional, adding:
"Ladies, dress like a star and put on your sexiest shoes. Gentlemen, dress to impress!"
Jamerson said First Assistant District Attorney Ed McCann, who received the email, "immediately identified that it was not appropriate" and alerted the staff that they were under no obligation to attend the fundraiser.
It’s quirky but acceptable to ask women to "dress like a star and put on your sexiest shoes."
It’s much more of a problem to have the campaign email employees at work to say their boss would love it if they attended and urged them to invite other staffers to tag along.
So it goes for "Seth in the City," the Wednesday evening fundraiser for District Attorney Seth Williams, modeled on the HBO show "Sex and the City."
Lisette Gonzalez, executive director for Williams’ political action committee last week emailed 34 of his staffers with the rank of deputy or chief, advising them that city ethics rules allow them to attend the fundraiser and contribute to their boss’s bid for a second term in 2013.
"I know for a fact, Seth would love it you could attend and support his event next week," Gonzalez wrote in her email.
That looks like macing -- pressuring public employees for campaign money -- according to Sam Stretton, an attorney for Williams’ campaign.
Gonzalez and Tasha Jamerson, a spokeswoman for the DA, said Williams did not know about or approve the email before it was sent. The email was first reported by The Legal Intelligencer Tuesday.
"You can’t go and put subtle pressure on staff to contribute. That’s illegal," Stretton said Tuesday. "I just think Seth has to realize that he’s in the big-time. He has to get his campaign staff a little better organized."
Gonzalez took the blame, saying Williams set her straight.
"I was hoping that we would get responses and I would surprise him with some of his chiefs and deputies being there," she said. "From here on out, I’m not to send any campaign related material to anybody [with a District Attorney’s office email]."
Gonzalez said she hasn’t seen "a whole lot of staff support" at campaign fund-raisers while lamenting as "sad" the fact that her email was leaked to the media.
The fundraiser invitation says it is black tie optional, adding:
"Ladies, dress like a star and put on your sexiest shoes. Gentlemen, dress to impress!"
Jamerson said First Assistant District Attorney Ed McCann, who received the email, "immediately identified that it was not appropriate" and alerted the staff that they were under no obligation to attend the fundraiser.
2012年6月4日星期一
Marvel Superhero Sneakers
This year is turning out to be one of the most Marvel-ous (sorry) in movie history. First, "The Avengers" set worldwide box-office records; next up is the big-budget "Amazing Spider-Man" reboot, which comes out on July 3rd; and, most importantly, Marvel just announced a collaboration with Reebok for some super superhero-themed retro sneakers. (Okay, so maybe the latter isn't quite as impressive as $1 billion in ticket sales, but it's still pretty cool.)
The lineup of superhero shoes features footwear inspired by, and dedicated to, Captain America, Red Skull, Spider-Man, Venom, Wolverine, Sabretooth, Deadpool, and Chamber, on famous Reebok styles like the '90s Ventilator, Pump Omni HLS, and Pump Fury HLS.
Rhode Island-based artist Anthony Petrie, who had been working with Marvel for a few years to create Spider-Man-licensed shoes, helped bring the line to fruition, stating that he's excited to get some "adult sizes for us grown-up nerds (and nerd-ettes)!"
And that's not just a joke. Nerd-ettes should feast their eyes on the two pairs of shoes designed specifically with the chic geek in mind: The all-white Emma Frost / White Queen (played by January Jones in "X-Men: First Class") Freestyle Hi-Tops, and the all-black Black Widow (played by Scarlett Johansson in "Marvel's The Avengers") sneakers with gold velcro straps.
Each shoe in the Reebok x Marvel collection comes with a unique hang-tag and graphic insoles with original art.
But as impressive as this collection is, it notably omits the Incredible Hulk and Iron Man, among others. Shoes that change color when you're angry? Shoes that have their own power cores? Hopefully, that's all in the works.
You can see a few of the sneakers in the gallery below. To check out the entire collection, head over to Anthony Petrie's Tumblr.
Check out Marvel's "The Avengers" in theaters now, "The Amazing Spider-Man" on July 3rd, and the shoes in stores soon.
Lofton's toughest task will be replacing Vilma as a leader. The middle linebacker is naturally the quarterback of the defense. This Saints group lacks an identity at this point. It's on Lofton to prove he was worth the money (five years for $27.5 million).
Lofton was viewed as a good, but not great player with the Atlanta Falcons. They wouldn't have let him leave in free agency otherwise, much less see him go to their biggest division rival.
Expectations will be high for Lofton in New Orleans. He has to live up to the standards of a franchise legend in Vilma. In many ways, it's on Lofton to hold this Saints defense together.
The lineup of superhero shoes features footwear inspired by, and dedicated to, Captain America, Red Skull, Spider-Man, Venom, Wolverine, Sabretooth, Deadpool, and Chamber, on famous Reebok styles like the '90s Ventilator, Pump Omni HLS, and Pump Fury HLS.
Rhode Island-based artist Anthony Petrie, who had been working with Marvel for a few years to create Spider-Man-licensed shoes, helped bring the line to fruition, stating that he's excited to get some "adult sizes for us grown-up nerds (and nerd-ettes)!"
And that's not just a joke. Nerd-ettes should feast their eyes on the two pairs of shoes designed specifically with the chic geek in mind: The all-white Emma Frost / White Queen (played by January Jones in "X-Men: First Class") Freestyle Hi-Tops, and the all-black Black Widow (played by Scarlett Johansson in "Marvel's The Avengers") sneakers with gold velcro straps.
Each shoe in the Reebok x Marvel collection comes with a unique hang-tag and graphic insoles with original art.
But as impressive as this collection is, it notably omits the Incredible Hulk and Iron Man, among others. Shoes that change color when you're angry? Shoes that have their own power cores? Hopefully, that's all in the works.
You can see a few of the sneakers in the gallery below. To check out the entire collection, head over to Anthony Petrie's Tumblr.
Check out Marvel's "The Avengers" in theaters now, "The Amazing Spider-Man" on July 3rd, and the shoes in stores soon.
Lofton's toughest task will be replacing Vilma as a leader. The middle linebacker is naturally the quarterback of the defense. This Saints group lacks an identity at this point. It's on Lofton to prove he was worth the money (five years for $27.5 million).
Lofton was viewed as a good, but not great player with the Atlanta Falcons. They wouldn't have let him leave in free agency otherwise, much less see him go to their biggest division rival.
Expectations will be high for Lofton in New Orleans. He has to live up to the standards of a franchise legend in Vilma. In many ways, it's on Lofton to hold this Saints defense together.
2012年6月3日星期日
French Open run ends for U.S. teen Sloane Stephens
But there was no sad face for Stephens — the youngest women left in the draw and soon to be the youngest in the top 60 based on ranking projections.
"I have had such a good time," she said after of her run in Paris, her first trip to the last 16 at a major. "And even though every day I have been saying, 'Man, I can't wait to get home to eat my grandpa's curry crab,' I don't want to leave. So it's kind of bittersweet that I'm going home, but I had so much fun."
Sixth-seeded Stosur said "inexperience probably showed through a little bit," but the Australian had high praise for her opponent.
"I think as she matures and gets a little bit older that's all going to really come together," Stosur said of her power, speed and shot-making. "I think she's got a very good future ahead of her."
If Stephens' loss doesn't derail a breakthrough effort, it did knock her out of the Olympics and ostensibly brings to a close the scramble for London Games singles slots.
The rankings cutoff is June 11, the day after the French Open ends, with most players ranked 56 or higher guaranteed a place in the singles draw.
Only four singles and two doubles players per country can be nominated, and based on the projected rankings those players will be (current rankings) No. 5 Serena Williams, No. 36 Christina McHale, No. 53 Venus Williams and No. 63 Varvara Lepchenko.
Top-ranked Liezel Huber and Lisa Raymond should round out the team in doubles.
To earn a place, Stephens had to reach the quarterfinals or advance one round further than Lepchenko here. Lepchenko plays No. 4 Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic in the fourth round today.
For the U.S. women, the plot thickened considerably in the last three months as Venus Williams, returned to action and Lepchenko and Stephens surged up the rankings. Venus has missed much of the year battling Sjogren's syndrome, an energy-sapping autoimmune disorder.
In March, Vania King looked to be in solid position to make the team, but illness and injury slowed her down (she lost in the second round here), opening the door.
Lepchenko began the season at No. 127 and Stephens was ranked No. 92 before reaching the semifinals of Strasbourg two weeks ago.
All week, the women tried to avoid the topic.
"I don't want to think about (the Olympics) because I don't want to put myself on the team yet," said McHale, 20, earlier this week before losing to defending champ Li Na of China in three sets. "I just want to wait until the tournament ends and see who gets in."
Serena and Lepchenko still need waivers from the International Tennis Federation, which oversees the tournament at the Olympics, to qualify.
Both failed eligibility requirements of making themselves available for Fed Cup duty in two of the previous four years.
Serena was out for 11 months in 2010-11 with injuries and illness, including a hematoma and blood clots. Uzbekistan-born Lepchenko only became a U.S. citizen in September.
"I have had such a good time," she said after of her run in Paris, her first trip to the last 16 at a major. "And even though every day I have been saying, 'Man, I can't wait to get home to eat my grandpa's curry crab,' I don't want to leave. So it's kind of bittersweet that I'm going home, but I had so much fun."
Sixth-seeded Stosur said "inexperience probably showed through a little bit," but the Australian had high praise for her opponent.
"I think as she matures and gets a little bit older that's all going to really come together," Stosur said of her power, speed and shot-making. "I think she's got a very good future ahead of her."
If Stephens' loss doesn't derail a breakthrough effort, it did knock her out of the Olympics and ostensibly brings to a close the scramble for London Games singles slots.
The rankings cutoff is June 11, the day after the French Open ends, with most players ranked 56 or higher guaranteed a place in the singles draw.
Only four singles and two doubles players per country can be nominated, and based on the projected rankings those players will be (current rankings) No. 5 Serena Williams, No. 36 Christina McHale, No. 53 Venus Williams and No. 63 Varvara Lepchenko.
Top-ranked Liezel Huber and Lisa Raymond should round out the team in doubles.
To earn a place, Stephens had to reach the quarterfinals or advance one round further than Lepchenko here. Lepchenko plays No. 4 Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic in the fourth round today.
For the U.S. women, the plot thickened considerably in the last three months as Venus Williams, returned to action and Lepchenko and Stephens surged up the rankings. Venus has missed much of the year battling Sjogren's syndrome, an energy-sapping autoimmune disorder.
In March, Vania King looked to be in solid position to make the team, but illness and injury slowed her down (she lost in the second round here), opening the door.
Lepchenko began the season at No. 127 and Stephens was ranked No. 92 before reaching the semifinals of Strasbourg two weeks ago.
All week, the women tried to avoid the topic.
"I don't want to think about (the Olympics) because I don't want to put myself on the team yet," said McHale, 20, earlier this week before losing to defending champ Li Na of China in three sets. "I just want to wait until the tournament ends and see who gets in."
Serena and Lepchenko still need waivers from the International Tennis Federation, which oversees the tournament at the Olympics, to qualify.
Both failed eligibility requirements of making themselves available for Fed Cup duty in two of the previous four years.
Serena was out for 11 months in 2010-11 with injuries and illness, including a hematoma and blood clots. Uzbekistan-born Lepchenko only became a U.S. citizen in September.
2012年5月29日星期二
Jeffrey Campbell Play | Fresh to Death Spring
The new season is full of excitement when it comes to accessories and Jeffrey Campbell's spring 2012 shoe collection is all about bringing variety to the fashion scene. Model Jessica Mercedes rocks the new JC Play Fresh to Death collection for the camera lens of Claire Oring, showing off the uniqueness of each and every shoe design included in the collection.
A girl can never have enough shoes, so if you're a true 'shoeaholic', you're going to have a difficult time staying away from the collection as it features various shoe designs that are meant to combine style with comfort and style with edginess, characteristics that have a certain uniqueness that makes heads turn.
Apparently, the designer doesn't aim to bring to the fashion scene the latest trends in shoe design, but rad shoes that will turn you into a trendsetter. These designs have a certain 'je ne sais quoi' that go from day to evening and that can match women with various personalities and styles. Bringing the perfect balance of super-chic sneakers and edgy high heels, JC Play's Fresh of Death spring 2012 collection is definitely worth all of your attention, whether you're all about casual or ladylike styles.
The sneakers signed by JC have a certain deluxe allure attached given not only through the shape of the designs but through the colors and fabrics used in the manufacturing process. Juxtaposing vintage with contemporary details, the designer managed to achieve various super stylish sneakers to suit women from day to evening. From the Flavia metallic sneakers to the Homgicon($80), the Billie Vin, the Teramo sneakericon($206) and the bright Venice sneakericon($214) in turquoise or pink combo, each design has something special that makes it attract attention, making every shoe a perfect choice for 'style & comfort-junkies'.
Thrill-seekers have the opportunity to experiment with JC Play's super fab high heel sandals that are sexy yet casual-chic and that will surely make heads turn. The interesting, edgy color choice and sole design of the Zumba and Fonda heels are perfectly balanced by the vintage chicness of the Smoosh sandals, so explore the new collection and pick your new JC favorites!
“In my opinion, they understand a signature when it's about them, but don't see when it's about somebody else,” he spits. “There is something incredibly hypocritical in PPR trying to break what I consider is my trademark. It's incredibly rude and double standards,” he says, gesticulating with frustration. “I'm like a mouse with this elephant that can crush me. They have spent so much money on lawyers. But I have to stand up for who I am, and for everyone who believes there is still the possibility to start your own thing, instead of having to be paid and employed by just one or two possible groups.”
Before setting up his own company, Louboutin designed shoes for YSL, among others. But he believes the current company has no relationship with the late designer. “As far as I'm concerned, it is driven by marketing people who don't know what they're talking about, and is totally apart from its fabulous and wonderful creator. He would never have done such a thing like that, for sure.”
Louboutin grew up in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, unaware of his parents' poverty until a classmate offered his mother a maid's job. An only son, with four older sisters, he was doted on. “She [mother] was a free spirit, never judging, the best support. When you have this education, driven by love, it keeps you straight for a long time - and when you have a solid character, you can do anything.”
A girl can never have enough shoes, so if you're a true 'shoeaholic', you're going to have a difficult time staying away from the collection as it features various shoe designs that are meant to combine style with comfort and style with edginess, characteristics that have a certain uniqueness that makes heads turn.
Apparently, the designer doesn't aim to bring to the fashion scene the latest trends in shoe design, but rad shoes that will turn you into a trendsetter. These designs have a certain 'je ne sais quoi' that go from day to evening and that can match women with various personalities and styles. Bringing the perfect balance of super-chic sneakers and edgy high heels, JC Play's Fresh of Death spring 2012 collection is definitely worth all of your attention, whether you're all about casual or ladylike styles.
The sneakers signed by JC have a certain deluxe allure attached given not only through the shape of the designs but through the colors and fabrics used in the manufacturing process. Juxtaposing vintage with contemporary details, the designer managed to achieve various super stylish sneakers to suit women from day to evening. From the Flavia metallic sneakers to the Homgicon($80), the Billie Vin, the Teramo sneakericon($206) and the bright Venice sneakericon($214) in turquoise or pink combo, each design has something special that makes it attract attention, making every shoe a perfect choice for 'style & comfort-junkies'.
Thrill-seekers have the opportunity to experiment with JC Play's super fab high heel sandals that are sexy yet casual-chic and that will surely make heads turn. The interesting, edgy color choice and sole design of the Zumba and Fonda heels are perfectly balanced by the vintage chicness of the Smoosh sandals, so explore the new collection and pick your new JC favorites!
“In my opinion, they understand a signature when it's about them, but don't see when it's about somebody else,” he spits. “There is something incredibly hypocritical in PPR trying to break what I consider is my trademark. It's incredibly rude and double standards,” he says, gesticulating with frustration. “I'm like a mouse with this elephant that can crush me. They have spent so much money on lawyers. But I have to stand up for who I am, and for everyone who believes there is still the possibility to start your own thing, instead of having to be paid and employed by just one or two possible groups.”
Before setting up his own company, Louboutin designed shoes for YSL, among others. But he believes the current company has no relationship with the late designer. “As far as I'm concerned, it is driven by marketing people who don't know what they're talking about, and is totally apart from its fabulous and wonderful creator. He would never have done such a thing like that, for sure.”
Louboutin grew up in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, unaware of his parents' poverty until a classmate offered his mother a maid's job. An only son, with four older sisters, he was doted on. “She [mother] was a free spirit, never judging, the best support. When you have this education, driven by love, it keeps you straight for a long time - and when you have a solid character, you can do anything.”
2012年5月27日星期日
Kristin Cavallari Talks Pregnancy
Mom-to-be Kristin Cavallari graces the latest cover of Glamoholic magazine. In the accompanying interview, the 25-year-old beauty talks about pregnancy, wedding, her new shoe line, and future plans. Check out these highlights from her interview!
Kristin Cavallari Talks Pregnancy and Future Plans with Glamoholic
Kristin Cavallari Talks Pregnancy and Future Plans with Glamoholic
Mom-to-be Kristin Cavallari graces the latest cover of Glamoholic magazine. In the accompanying interview, the 25-year-old beauty talks about pregnancy, wedding, her new shoe line, and future plans. Check out these highlights from her interview!
Mom-to-be Kristin Cavallari graces the newest cover of Glamoholic magazine. Inside, the beautiful 25-year-old star talks about pregnancy saying that, "I am actually enjoying it which may sound crazy to some women but I've had a really easy pregnancy. The first couple of months I was tired but I didn't have any morning sickness. Which, I'll take being tired any day over throwing up."
On learning something new about herself while being pregnant, Cavallari admits that, "Your motherly instincts naturally kick in. We weren't trying to have a kid but we weren't not trying, we left it up to fate. I knew there was a possibility but I was really excited! Even if you are trying, just to see a positive result is shocking!"
But does she know if is a boy or girl? "No, not yet. I will find out on Monday, but even if I knew I wouldn't tell you," Kristin confesses. Still, she doesn't have a preference. "No I don't, I just want to have a healthy baby," she adds.
Asked about what qualities she hopes her child would take from her and her fiance, Cavallari says that, "We're both very loyal and Jay is extremely down to earth, which is one of the things I love about him. I'm very driven and I get that from my dad. My dad has always pushed me to do the best I can do so I hope that I can pass that along to my kids."
Asked if she and Jay are planning for their wedding, Kristin says that, "Yes and no. We're talking about the possibility of having another kid right away and then getting married so we can have 2 kids close in age. We want 4 kids, so we're thinking maybe have one more, then get married, then have two more but we'll see, it all depends on how the first one goes."
On her favorite collections at NY Fashion Week, Kristin explains that, "I love New York especially during fashion week the energy is so great. I'm a huge fan of Rachel Roy and it was the first time I had seen one of her presentations. Also, Betsey Johnson I go to every time, it's so fun, it's like a big party. I went to Dennis Baso who was a new one for me. I hosted the Pre-Oscar show on 'E!' so I was specifically looking for a dress for that. I didn't end up wearing one of his pieces but I had a lot of fun and he had some great stuff, so I am a new fan of his."
Speaking about her new shoe line, Cavallari told the magazine that, "It will be in stores in February. I'm working with Chinese Laundry and I'm so excited because I have been wanting a shoe line for years!" As for the inspiration for the collection, she reveals that, "The most important thing is for it to be affordable. I think it's important for girls to know that you don't have to spend nine hundred dollars on a pair of shoes to look and feel sexy. I'll have some boots, heels, your classic staples of every shoe collection."
Kristin Cavallari Talks Pregnancy and Future Plans with Glamoholic
Kristin Cavallari Talks Pregnancy and Future Plans with Glamoholic
Mom-to-be Kristin Cavallari graces the latest cover of Glamoholic magazine. In the accompanying interview, the 25-year-old beauty talks about pregnancy, wedding, her new shoe line, and future plans. Check out these highlights from her interview!
Mom-to-be Kristin Cavallari graces the newest cover of Glamoholic magazine. Inside, the beautiful 25-year-old star talks about pregnancy saying that, "I am actually enjoying it which may sound crazy to some women but I've had a really easy pregnancy. The first couple of months I was tired but I didn't have any morning sickness. Which, I'll take being tired any day over throwing up."
On learning something new about herself while being pregnant, Cavallari admits that, "Your motherly instincts naturally kick in. We weren't trying to have a kid but we weren't not trying, we left it up to fate. I knew there was a possibility but I was really excited! Even if you are trying, just to see a positive result is shocking!"
But does she know if is a boy or girl? "No, not yet. I will find out on Monday, but even if I knew I wouldn't tell you," Kristin confesses. Still, she doesn't have a preference. "No I don't, I just want to have a healthy baby," she adds.
Asked about what qualities she hopes her child would take from her and her fiance, Cavallari says that, "We're both very loyal and Jay is extremely down to earth, which is one of the things I love about him. I'm very driven and I get that from my dad. My dad has always pushed me to do the best I can do so I hope that I can pass that along to my kids."
Asked if she and Jay are planning for their wedding, Kristin says that, "Yes and no. We're talking about the possibility of having another kid right away and then getting married so we can have 2 kids close in age. We want 4 kids, so we're thinking maybe have one more, then get married, then have two more but we'll see, it all depends on how the first one goes."
On her favorite collections at NY Fashion Week, Kristin explains that, "I love New York especially during fashion week the energy is so great. I'm a huge fan of Rachel Roy and it was the first time I had seen one of her presentations. Also, Betsey Johnson I go to every time, it's so fun, it's like a big party. I went to Dennis Baso who was a new one for me. I hosted the Pre-Oscar show on 'E!' so I was specifically looking for a dress for that. I didn't end up wearing one of his pieces but I had a lot of fun and he had some great stuff, so I am a new fan of his."
Speaking about her new shoe line, Cavallari told the magazine that, "It will be in stores in February. I'm working with Chinese Laundry and I'm so excited because I have been wanting a shoe line for years!" As for the inspiration for the collection, she reveals that, "The most important thing is for it to be affordable. I think it's important for girls to know that you don't have to spend nine hundred dollars on a pair of shoes to look and feel sexy. I'll have some boots, heels, your classic staples of every shoe collection."
2012年5月24日星期四
Robert Pattinson sports Gucci costume in Cosmopolis
Gucci has collaborated with costume designer Denise Cronenberg to create the sleek and elegant silhouette for actor Robert Pattinson in the new contemporary thriller, “Cosmopolis”. The film, directed by David Cronenberg and produced by Paulo Branco and Martin Katz, will premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 25th and will be released in theaters later this year.
In the film, Pattinson’s character is dressed in one of Gucci’s signature silhouettes - a black two button notch lapel Signoria. The impeccably tailored suit is paired with a fitted white cotton shirt, slim black silk tie, leather belt with silver buckle detail and black leather lace up dress shoes. “We are so pleased to work with Robert on ‘Cosmopolis’ and to create an effortless and classic style for his character,” said Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini.
Pattinson plays a young billionaire asset manager, Eric Packer, on a twenty-four hour odyssey across Manhattan. Despite traffic jams and a looming financial disaster, Packer (Pattinson) risks travelling cross-town in his stretch limousine for a haircut. During delays including a presidential motorcade, a celebrity funeral, and political protests, Eric receives visitors, both for business and pleasure, in his opulent, high-tech automobile. As the encounters and the economic crisis intensify, Packer cynically gambles with his clients’ fortunes and his own.
Toronto based Cronenberg is known for costume design work in films including Crash, The Incredible Hunk and A Dangerous Method. Gucci was pleased to collaborate with Cronenberg for this film. "The concept I had in mind for Rob's character was decided as I read the script. It would require an elegant, expensive suit, white shirt and slim tie. Rob wore the collection head to toe - I could not have accomplished this look without the help of Gucci,” said Cronenberg.
As the high-end Chinese consumer becomes more discerning in a slowing luxury goods market, analysts say Hong Kong-listed Italian fashion house Prada can face up to the challenge given its attractive product mix and store expansion plans, forecasting huge gains for the company`s stock over the next 12 months.
Erwan Rambourg, Head of Consumer Brands Research at HSBC, says as consumers in China - the second-largest market in the world for luxury goods after the US - become more "sophisticated" and "demanding," Prada's product range that includes pure leather bags and smaller logos, is turning out to be more appealing than those of competitors Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
"Chinese consumers are moving away from logo driven brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Prada looks like a edgy, newcomer with higher image potential," Rambourg said.
"Prada's presence in China is limited, which helps them have a more exclusive image. There is first mover disadvantage for companies like Louis Vuitton, they can only lose share," he added. While Prada has 19 retail outlets in China, Gucci has 48 stores.
In the film, Pattinson’s character is dressed in one of Gucci’s signature silhouettes - a black two button notch lapel Signoria. The impeccably tailored suit is paired with a fitted white cotton shirt, slim black silk tie, leather belt with silver buckle detail and black leather lace up dress shoes. “We are so pleased to work with Robert on ‘Cosmopolis’ and to create an effortless and classic style for his character,” said Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini.
Pattinson plays a young billionaire asset manager, Eric Packer, on a twenty-four hour odyssey across Manhattan. Despite traffic jams and a looming financial disaster, Packer (Pattinson) risks travelling cross-town in his stretch limousine for a haircut. During delays including a presidential motorcade, a celebrity funeral, and political protests, Eric receives visitors, both for business and pleasure, in his opulent, high-tech automobile. As the encounters and the economic crisis intensify, Packer cynically gambles with his clients’ fortunes and his own.
Toronto based Cronenberg is known for costume design work in films including Crash, The Incredible Hunk and A Dangerous Method. Gucci was pleased to collaborate with Cronenberg for this film. "The concept I had in mind for Rob's character was decided as I read the script. It would require an elegant, expensive suit, white shirt and slim tie. Rob wore the collection head to toe - I could not have accomplished this look without the help of Gucci,” said Cronenberg.
As the high-end Chinese consumer becomes more discerning in a slowing luxury goods market, analysts say Hong Kong-listed Italian fashion house Prada can face up to the challenge given its attractive product mix and store expansion plans, forecasting huge gains for the company`s stock over the next 12 months.
Erwan Rambourg, Head of Consumer Brands Research at HSBC, says as consumers in China - the second-largest market in the world for luxury goods after the US - become more "sophisticated" and "demanding," Prada's product range that includes pure leather bags and smaller logos, is turning out to be more appealing than those of competitors Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
"Chinese consumers are moving away from logo driven brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Prada looks like a edgy, newcomer with higher image potential," Rambourg said.
"Prada's presence in China is limited, which helps them have a more exclusive image. There is first mover disadvantage for companies like Louis Vuitton, they can only lose share," he added. While Prada has 19 retail outlets in China, Gucci has 48 stores.
2012年5月23日星期三
Zara for Dh10, Mango for Dh15
A Zara dress for Dh10? Yes, that is the price you would pay for other branded dresses as well at the city's second-hand stores that are fast becoming a favourite hunting ground for many Shoppers bag amazing bargains at thrift and second-hand shops in Dubai as they look at ways to curb spending
DUBAI: "I once bought a Barbara Bui silk and velvet top for Dh5!" says Rose Fernandes. "It should have cost me approximately Dh7,000 to Dh10,000! And people wonder why I rummage through thrift stores. There are hidden treasures to be discovered!"
Her friend, Manuella, says, "One man's trash is another's treasure. I often find dresses, skirts and trousers from Motivi, Mango and Zara for Dh10 or Dh15. The clothes are in really good condition, as if they've been worn just once or twice."
Hanane Younes, operations and facilities supervisor at the Dubai Charity Centre (run by the Dubai Centre for Special Needs), the city's largest and most popular second-hand store, says their Karama shop is always packed. "Everything is sold at a fraction of its original cost, and only good quality products are sold," she says.
If the increasing numbers of shoppers are anything to go by, more people are choosing to make their fashion and household purchases from second-hand stores than ever before.
As people look for ways to curb spending, buying second or pre-loved items isn't the taboo it once used to be. In fact, the city's thrift, charity and second-hand shops are all the rage.
Younes says their thrift store in Karama does better business than ever before. "Although our primary aim is to generate profits for our special needs centre, we love being eco-friendly by recycling clothes and household items as well as giving the less fortunate the same advantages as the fortunate."
A walk through the store reveals amazing bargains. With men's suits being sold for as little as Dh20, children's clothes for Dh5, and everything else from books, shoes, toys and household items being sold for Dh5, going up to a maximum of Dh20, the store is a shopper's delight.
"I've just picked up a Vivaldi CD for my husband, an Aerosmith CD for me, a beautiful blanket for our baby, some soft toys, six white pots for our plants, a Zara shirt for my husband and a pink leather handbag for me, all for Dh75!" says Filipina Rosalinn Ruiz, a personal assistant in Dubai.
"If you look hard, you'll find a gem hidden amongst the stacks," says Bleese, who bought an original Gucci bag for under Dh300, at over 95 per cent off its original price.
DUBAI: "I once bought a Barbara Bui silk and velvet top for Dh5!" says Rose Fernandes. "It should have cost me approximately Dh7,000 to Dh10,000! And people wonder why I rummage through thrift stores. There are hidden treasures to be discovered!"
Her friend, Manuella, says, "One man's trash is another's treasure. I often find dresses, skirts and trousers from Motivi, Mango and Zara for Dh10 or Dh15. The clothes are in really good condition, as if they've been worn just once or twice."
Hanane Younes, operations and facilities supervisor at the Dubai Charity Centre (run by the Dubai Centre for Special Needs), the city's largest and most popular second-hand store, says their Karama shop is always packed. "Everything is sold at a fraction of its original cost, and only good quality products are sold," she says.
If the increasing numbers of shoppers are anything to go by, more people are choosing to make their fashion and household purchases from second-hand stores than ever before.
As people look for ways to curb spending, buying second or pre-loved items isn't the taboo it once used to be. In fact, the city's thrift, charity and second-hand shops are all the rage.
Younes says their thrift store in Karama does better business than ever before. "Although our primary aim is to generate profits for our special needs centre, we love being eco-friendly by recycling clothes and household items as well as giving the less fortunate the same advantages as the fortunate."
A walk through the store reveals amazing bargains. With men's suits being sold for as little as Dh20, children's clothes for Dh5, and everything else from books, shoes, toys and household items being sold for Dh5, going up to a maximum of Dh20, the store is a shopper's delight.
"I've just picked up a Vivaldi CD for my husband, an Aerosmith CD for me, a beautiful blanket for our baby, some soft toys, six white pots for our plants, a Zara shirt for my husband and a pink leather handbag for me, all for Dh75!" says Filipina Rosalinn Ruiz, a personal assistant in Dubai.
"If you look hard, you'll find a gem hidden amongst the stacks," says Bleese, who bought an original Gucci bag for under Dh300, at over 95 per cent off its original price.
2012年5月22日星期二
Quebec protests gain high profile support
Quebec's student protest movement gained some high-profile supporters in the fight against tuition fee increases over the weekend as anger mounted and demonstrations continued against a new law aimed at curbing the three months of demonstrations. Montreal police arrested more than 180 people on Sunday night.
Quebec's provincial government passed an emergency law Friday restricting protests, including a requirement that police be informed eight hours before and told the route of any demonstration that includes 50 or more people. Demonstrations were held again Sunday, including a rowdy evening march, for the 27th night in a row.
The new law has only served to fuel the student movement.
The nightly demonstration was quickly declared illegal by police after it started at around 8:30 p.m. after objects were thrown at police, said Sgt. Ian Lafreniere early Monday.
A first group of protesters was cornered and 110 people were arrested. As the demonstration continued, more arrests were made after demonstrators climbed on police and civilian vehicles, causing damage, he said.
The previous night's protest also ended with dozens of arrests as police clashed with protesters.
Student groups have panned the law and said they would challenge it in court and continue demonstrations.
A major demonstration is scheduled Tuesday to mark the 100th day of protest. Montreal police said more than 200 demonstrations have taken place since the student movement began in February. More than 300 arrests have been made in the last week.
The movement also gained celebrity support. Montreal indie rockers Arcade Fire wore the movement's iconic red squares during an appearance with Mick Jagger on Saturday Night Live. Twitter erupted with questions about the meaning of the fashion statement, while student backers praised the move.
Activist and filmmaker Michael Moore also gave his support to the students, featuring links about the issue on his website.
The conflict has caused considerable social upheaval in the French-speaking province known for having more contentious protests than elsewhere in Canada.
Quebec Premier Jean Charest has refused to roll back the tuition hikes of $254 per year over seven years. Quebec has the lowest tuition rates in Canada, but even after such an 80 percent increase, it would remain among the lowest in the country.
While the new legislation aimed at stopping the protests is unpopular among students and rights groups, a poll published the day after legislation was passed showed two-thirds of Quebecers supported it.
The U.S. consulate in Montreal last month warned visitors and U.S. expatriates to be wary of demonstrations.
Quebec's provincial government passed an emergency law Friday restricting protests, including a requirement that police be informed eight hours before and told the route of any demonstration that includes 50 or more people. Demonstrations were held again Sunday, including a rowdy evening march, for the 27th night in a row.
The new law has only served to fuel the student movement.
The nightly demonstration was quickly declared illegal by police after it started at around 8:30 p.m. after objects were thrown at police, said Sgt. Ian Lafreniere early Monday.
A first group of protesters was cornered and 110 people were arrested. As the demonstration continued, more arrests were made after demonstrators climbed on police and civilian vehicles, causing damage, he said.
The previous night's protest also ended with dozens of arrests as police clashed with protesters.
Student groups have panned the law and said they would challenge it in court and continue demonstrations.
A major demonstration is scheduled Tuesday to mark the 100th day of protest. Montreal police said more than 200 demonstrations have taken place since the student movement began in February. More than 300 arrests have been made in the last week.
The movement also gained celebrity support. Montreal indie rockers Arcade Fire wore the movement's iconic red squares during an appearance with Mick Jagger on Saturday Night Live. Twitter erupted with questions about the meaning of the fashion statement, while student backers praised the move.
Activist and filmmaker Michael Moore also gave his support to the students, featuring links about the issue on his website.
The conflict has caused considerable social upheaval in the French-speaking province known for having more contentious protests than elsewhere in Canada.
Quebec Premier Jean Charest has refused to roll back the tuition hikes of $254 per year over seven years. Quebec has the lowest tuition rates in Canada, but even after such an 80 percent increase, it would remain among the lowest in the country.
While the new legislation aimed at stopping the protests is unpopular among students and rights groups, a poll published the day after legislation was passed showed two-thirds of Quebecers supported it.
The U.S. consulate in Montreal last month warned visitors and U.S. expatriates to be wary of demonstrations.
2012年5月17日星期四
Fresh to Death Spring 2012 Collection
A girl can never have enough shoes, so if you're a true 'shoeaholic', you're going to have a difficult time staying away from the collection as it features various shoe designs that are meant to combine style with comfort and style with edginess, characteristics that have a certain uniqueness that makes heads turn.
Apparently, the designer doesn't aim to bring to the fashion scene the latest trends in shoe design, but rad shoes that will turn you into a trendsetter. These designs have a certain 'je ne sais quoi' that go from day to evening and that can match women with various personalities and styles. Bringing the perfect balance of super-chic sneakers and edgy high heels, JC Play's Fresh of Death spring 2012 collection is definitely worth all of your attention, whether you're all about casual or ladylike styles.
The sneakers signed by JC have a certain deluxe allure attached given not only through the shape of the designs but through the colors and fabrics used in the manufacturing process. Juxtaposing vintage with contemporary details, the designer managed to achieve various super stylish sneakers to suit women from day to evening. From the Flavia metallic sneakers to the Homgicon(80), the Billie Vin, the Teramo sneakericon(206) and the bright Venice sneakericon(214) in turquoise or pink combo, each design has something special that makes it attract attention, making every shoe a perfect choice for 'style & comfort-junkies'.
Thrill-seekers have the opportunity to experiment with JC Play's super fab high heel sandals that are sexy yet casual-chic and that will surely make heads turn. The interesting, edgy color choice and sole design of the Zumba and Fonda heels are perfectly balanced by the vintage chicness of the Smoosh sandals, so explore the new collection and pick your new JC favorites!
The dueling agendas were on display during meetings with China's top leaders. While Clinton and her counterparts wrestled with trade and security issues and the world's hot spots, Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell pounded busily on his Blackberry.
She left with Chen's path to the USA agreed upon but not completed, and pleased that the conference had gone off without a hitch — a sign, she said, of the maturing relationship between the world's largest developed and developing nations.
"We had a very difficult challenge in dealing with Mr. Chen, which was made, I believe, more possible of a positive outcome because we had this other set of activities going simultaneously that both of us, the Chinese and the U.S. sides, were invested in," she said.
The stop in Bangladesh was "personal," Clinton said, coming 17 years after she and daughter Chelsea first visited in 1995. Her female counterpart, Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, put it this way: "Hillary Clinton has been something of a household name in Bangladesh."
That was obvious from the throngs of people standing four to five rows deep along Dhaka's dusty riverbanks and railroad beds. A sign along the motorcade route read, "Heartiest congratulation to our beloved U.S. foreign minister Hillary Clinton."
"We want to see Bangladesh succeed. This is personal for me," she said. "I remember the faces of the men and women I met in the villages."
In India, Clinton became the first secretary of State to visit Kolkata, but it wasn't her first trip. She had been there in 1997 for Mother Teresa's funeral.
This time, her schedule included a private meeting with the new chief minister for West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, who replaced decades of communist rule. The next day's headline in The Economic Times of New Delhi told it all: "Ego massaged by U.S. secretary of State, Banerjee positive on U.S. investments."
Her stop included an event designed to draw attention to India's problem of sex trafficking, where Clinton donned a green elastic bracelet with the phrase, "Cool Men Don't Buy Sex."
"We're still struggling to make it a mainstream issue," she told representatives of 10 organizations fighting the problem. "It has no place in a modern India."
Clinton was forced to field occasionally hostile questions during the trip. Is the United States anti-Muslim, asked a man in Bangladesh. Why isn't it tougher on Israel, asked a woman in Kolkata. In each instance, she refuted the premise and defended government policies. Israel, she said, must protect itself from Iran — "a regime that has a history of aggressive behavior, and I don't think you deal with aggressors by giving in to them."
More often, the questions focused on her role as a powerful woman and her future plans. In China, Zhou Yuting, 22, a university student fresh from studying abroad in New York City, said Clinton provides "a gentler, milder image" of America than her male counterparts. In India, Hena Gorsia, president of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, said, "Whether she breaks through that invisible ceiling in 2016 or not, she's going to leave behind footprints."
Clinton demurred every time the White House was mentioned. "I'm very flattered, but I feel like it's time for me to kind of step off the high wire," she said in Kolkata.
Apparently, the designer doesn't aim to bring to the fashion scene the latest trends in shoe design, but rad shoes that will turn you into a trendsetter. These designs have a certain 'je ne sais quoi' that go from day to evening and that can match women with various personalities and styles. Bringing the perfect balance of super-chic sneakers and edgy high heels, JC Play's Fresh of Death spring 2012 collection is definitely worth all of your attention, whether you're all about casual or ladylike styles.
The sneakers signed by JC have a certain deluxe allure attached given not only through the shape of the designs but through the colors and fabrics used in the manufacturing process. Juxtaposing vintage with contemporary details, the designer managed to achieve various super stylish sneakers to suit women from day to evening. From the Flavia metallic sneakers to the Homgicon(80), the Billie Vin, the Teramo sneakericon(206) and the bright Venice sneakericon(214) in turquoise or pink combo, each design has something special that makes it attract attention, making every shoe a perfect choice for 'style & comfort-junkies'.
Thrill-seekers have the opportunity to experiment with JC Play's super fab high heel sandals that are sexy yet casual-chic and that will surely make heads turn. The interesting, edgy color choice and sole design of the Zumba and Fonda heels are perfectly balanced by the vintage chicness of the Smoosh sandals, so explore the new collection and pick your new JC favorites!
The dueling agendas were on display during meetings with China's top leaders. While Clinton and her counterparts wrestled with trade and security issues and the world's hot spots, Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell pounded busily on his Blackberry.
She left with Chen's path to the USA agreed upon but not completed, and pleased that the conference had gone off without a hitch — a sign, she said, of the maturing relationship between the world's largest developed and developing nations.
"We had a very difficult challenge in dealing with Mr. Chen, which was made, I believe, more possible of a positive outcome because we had this other set of activities going simultaneously that both of us, the Chinese and the U.S. sides, were invested in," she said.
The stop in Bangladesh was "personal," Clinton said, coming 17 years after she and daughter Chelsea first visited in 1995. Her female counterpart, Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, put it this way: "Hillary Clinton has been something of a household name in Bangladesh."
That was obvious from the throngs of people standing four to five rows deep along Dhaka's dusty riverbanks and railroad beds. A sign along the motorcade route read, "Heartiest congratulation to our beloved U.S. foreign minister Hillary Clinton."
"We want to see Bangladesh succeed. This is personal for me," she said. "I remember the faces of the men and women I met in the villages."
In India, Clinton became the first secretary of State to visit Kolkata, but it wasn't her first trip. She had been there in 1997 for Mother Teresa's funeral.
This time, her schedule included a private meeting with the new chief minister for West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, who replaced decades of communist rule. The next day's headline in The Economic Times of New Delhi told it all: "Ego massaged by U.S. secretary of State, Banerjee positive on U.S. investments."
Her stop included an event designed to draw attention to India's problem of sex trafficking, where Clinton donned a green elastic bracelet with the phrase, "Cool Men Don't Buy Sex."
"We're still struggling to make it a mainstream issue," she told representatives of 10 organizations fighting the problem. "It has no place in a modern India."
Clinton was forced to field occasionally hostile questions during the trip. Is the United States anti-Muslim, asked a man in Bangladesh. Why isn't it tougher on Israel, asked a woman in Kolkata. In each instance, she refuted the premise and defended government policies. Israel, she said, must protect itself from Iran — "a regime that has a history of aggressive behavior, and I don't think you deal with aggressors by giving in to them."
More often, the questions focused on her role as a powerful woman and her future plans. In China, Zhou Yuting, 22, a university student fresh from studying abroad in New York City, said Clinton provides "a gentler, milder image" of America than her male counterparts. In India, Hena Gorsia, president of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, said, "Whether she breaks through that invisible ceiling in 2016 or not, she's going to leave behind footprints."
Clinton demurred every time the White House was mentioned. "I'm very flattered, but I feel like it's time for me to kind of step off the high wire," she said in Kolkata.
2012年5月16日星期三
New testing facility from SGS and Boken
A new textiles and garments testing facility has been set up in Indonesia in the latest of a series of partnerships between testing companies SGS and Boken.
The facility, the ninth overseas centre set up by Japanese company Boken, is located within the SGS laboratory in Jakarta to tap into the growing demand for testing in Indonesia’s textiles and garment industry.
Open now, it will provide physical and colourfastness testing, functional quality testing, fibre analysis and restricted substances testing.
The laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025 by the National Accreditation Body of Indonesia, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and can provide physical and chemical tests to determine if products meet standards such as ISO, BS, DIN, AATCC, ASTM, CPSC and others.
Hepburn, with her coltish figure and intelligent doe eyes, was an actress drastically unlike Marilyn Monroe. Both actresses, however, had a Cinderella-like relationship with Hollywood master shoemaker Salvatore Ferragamo. For Hepburn, he created elegant, restrained, “sensible” shoes. At 5 feet 7 inches, the actress was tall for a woman of her generation and had long, slim feet, which Ferragamo said were “in perfect proportion to her height.
For a dance number in “Funny Face,” Ferragamo designed a pair of black suede slip-on loafers to go with Hepburn’s Givenchy-designed black turtleneck sweater and cropped black stovepipe pants. But Hepburn balked at wearing the spotless white socks meant to go with the outfit. How could she draw gleaming arrows toward her sizeable feet? Yet director Stanley Donen wouldn’t back down, and Hepburn wore them. After seeing the film for the first time, she wrote to Donen, “You were right about the socks. Love, Audrey.”
The ’Beat Look’
After “Funny Face,” beatnik-inflected styles entered the vernacular of haute couture. In the late 1950s, after Yves Saint Laurent became head of Christian Dior’s fashion house, he presented the “Beat Look,” a collection of turtlenecks and biker jackets. It was an early instance of street style affecting high fashion. Unfortunately for Saint Laurent, Vogue criticized the experiment as designed for young women “possessed of superb legs and slim, young goddess figures,” and it cost him his job.
The facility, the ninth overseas centre set up by Japanese company Boken, is located within the SGS laboratory in Jakarta to tap into the growing demand for testing in Indonesia’s textiles and garment industry.
Open now, it will provide physical and colourfastness testing, functional quality testing, fibre analysis and restricted substances testing.
The laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025 by the National Accreditation Body of Indonesia, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and can provide physical and chemical tests to determine if products meet standards such as ISO, BS, DIN, AATCC, ASTM, CPSC and others.
Hepburn, with her coltish figure and intelligent doe eyes, was an actress drastically unlike Marilyn Monroe. Both actresses, however, had a Cinderella-like relationship with Hollywood master shoemaker Salvatore Ferragamo. For Hepburn, he created elegant, restrained, “sensible” shoes. At 5 feet 7 inches, the actress was tall for a woman of her generation and had long, slim feet, which Ferragamo said were “in perfect proportion to her height.
For a dance number in “Funny Face,” Ferragamo designed a pair of black suede slip-on loafers to go with Hepburn’s Givenchy-designed black turtleneck sweater and cropped black stovepipe pants. But Hepburn balked at wearing the spotless white socks meant to go with the outfit. How could she draw gleaming arrows toward her sizeable feet? Yet director Stanley Donen wouldn’t back down, and Hepburn wore them. After seeing the film for the first time, she wrote to Donen, “You were right about the socks. Love, Audrey.”
The ’Beat Look’
After “Funny Face,” beatnik-inflected styles entered the vernacular of haute couture. In the late 1950s, after Yves Saint Laurent became head of Christian Dior’s fashion house, he presented the “Beat Look,” a collection of turtlenecks and biker jackets. It was an early instance of street style affecting high fashion. Unfortunately for Saint Laurent, Vogue criticized the experiment as designed for young women “possessed of superb legs and slim, young goddess figures,” and it cost him his job.
2012年5月10日星期四
Is this a real one?
Designer handbags can sell for hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Handbags from the design houses of Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Coach have produced accessories for well-dressed women for generations. Their products are handcrafted of the highest quality materials and can last for years.
Recently though, designer bags have become sought after for their logo, and counterfeit products have flooded the market. Designers defend their intellectual property with trademark and patent protection, but still their items are “knocked off.” An online search results in page after page of websites selling counterfeit handbags.
I have spoken with many customers in my business who have purchased bags believing they were genuine, only to find out they were mistaken. If you want a new, authentic designer bag, buy it from the designer’s store. This is the best way to assure its authenticity.
If you are interested in a previously owned or vintage item, you can find great buys at consignment and thrift store, or even at garage sales. But how do you know it’s real?
First of all, ask the seller if they guarantee the product and will give you a full refund if you discover it’s a fake.
Recently though, designer bags have become sought after for their logo, and counterfeit products have flooded the market. Designers defend their intellectual property with trademark and patent protection, but still their items are “knocked off.” An online search results in page after page of websites selling counterfeit handbags.
I have spoken with many customers in my business who have purchased bags believing they were genuine, only to find out they were mistaken. If you want a new, authentic designer bag, buy it from the designer’s store. This is the best way to assure its authenticity.
If you are interested in a previously owned or vintage item, you can find great buys at consignment and thrift store, or even at garage sales. But how do you know it’s real?
First of all, ask the seller if they guarantee the product and will give you a full refund if you discover it’s a fake.
2012年5月9日星期三
JOHNNY WAS Signs Two Leases in Northern California
Scott Lifschultz, founder and president of SPL Realty Partners announces two new lease signings in Northern California on behalf of its client JOHNNY WAS. Both Valley Fair and Stanford Shopping Center are slated to open this year.
SPL Realty Partners acts as JOHNNY WAS’ national real estate broker and represented the upscale, bohemian chic retailer on both of these transactions, as well as the three existing locations at Santa Monica Place, The Grove in West Hollywood and Fashion Island in Newport Beach.
The first Northern California store will be located at Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose, CA. Valley Fair is one of Westfield’s top-performing malls in its US portfolio and is the dominant regional enclosed mall in San Jose.
Possession of the 1,200 square foot retail space, currently occupied by Janie & Jack, is scheduled for July 1, with store opening slated for late summer/early fall 2012. The space boasts over 22 feet of frontage and is among retailers including Apple, True Religion, Stuart Weitzman, Kiehl’s & MAC Cosmetics. Anchors and other luxury retailers include Macy’s, Nordstrom, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Cartier, Ferragamo, Burberry, Tiffany & Co, and Louis Vuitton.
SPL Realty Partners acts as JOHNNY WAS’ national real estate broker and represented the upscale, bohemian chic retailer on both of these transactions, as well as the three existing locations at Santa Monica Place, The Grove in West Hollywood and Fashion Island in Newport Beach.
The first Northern California store will be located at Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose, CA. Valley Fair is one of Westfield’s top-performing malls in its US portfolio and is the dominant regional enclosed mall in San Jose.
Possession of the 1,200 square foot retail space, currently occupied by Janie & Jack, is scheduled for July 1, with store opening slated for late summer/early fall 2012. The space boasts over 22 feet of frontage and is among retailers including Apple, True Religion, Stuart Weitzman, Kiehl’s & MAC Cosmetics. Anchors and other luxury retailers include Macy’s, Nordstrom, Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Cartier, Ferragamo, Burberry, Tiffany & Co, and Louis Vuitton.
2012年5月7日星期一
Scarlett Johansson Plays Up Her Retro Side
Scarlett Johansson had quite the eventful week. Not only did the actress's new movie, The Avengers, debut on Friday, but she was also honored with her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Wednesday, May 2. She channeled a bit of old Hollywood glamor mixed with plenty of retro chic for the red carpet ceremony.
Johansson, 27, looked ultra-fashionable in her black-and-white top and skirt ensemble by Preen, which accentuated her curves and featured the label's trendsetting mismatched prints that ironically go together oh-so-well. She added some understated sparkle with Bulgari jewels and a touch of sizzle with red Christian Louboutin peep-toe shoes, as Just Jared confirms. The outfit definitely had a vintage, throwback feel that was sophisticated, sexy, and modern.
But Johansson's stilettos weren't the only red-hot item. While the actress kept her makeup fairly subtle with barely the hint of a charcoal-lined cat-eye and just a light bronzed cheek, she slicked on the crimson lipstick that upped the retro factor even more. Her blonde locks were sleekly pulled back into a low bun-like 'do, but her deeply parted front bang was fashioned into a classic finger-wave style.
Scarlett Johansson even had a handsome accessory by her side. Her Avengers co-star, Jeremy Renner, came out to congratulate her on her new "star" status.
Johansson, 27, looked ultra-fashionable in her black-and-white top and skirt ensemble by Preen, which accentuated her curves and featured the label's trendsetting mismatched prints that ironically go together oh-so-well. She added some understated sparkle with Bulgari jewels and a touch of sizzle with red Christian Louboutin peep-toe shoes, as Just Jared confirms. The outfit definitely had a vintage, throwback feel that was sophisticated, sexy, and modern.
But Johansson's stilettos weren't the only red-hot item. While the actress kept her makeup fairly subtle with barely the hint of a charcoal-lined cat-eye and just a light bronzed cheek, she slicked on the crimson lipstick that upped the retro factor even more. Her blonde locks were sleekly pulled back into a low bun-like 'do, but her deeply parted front bang was fashioned into a classic finger-wave style.
Scarlett Johansson even had a handsome accessory by her side. Her Avengers co-star, Jeremy Renner, came out to congratulate her on her new "star" status.
2012年5月2日星期三
Brilliant spy's life of secrets
Gareth Williams crammed his life with secrets - in and out of work.
The 31-year-old excelled as a spy, producing "world-class" codebreaking intelligence for MI6 and the GCHQ eavesdropping station.
Colleagues, friends, family and police queued up to pay tribute to his extraordinary ability, which saw him land a first-class mathematics degree at 17.
But the teetotal fitness enthusiast lived a solitary personal life that was dramatically removed from the world of espionage.
Police, who painstakingly pieced together his unlikely interests, discovered a fiercely private bachelor fascinated by women's clothes and drag queen culture.
He enrolled on a fashion course and collected 20,000 of unworn designer women's clothing at his pristinely tidy flat, including 26 pairs of women's shoes designed by Christian Louboutin, Stella McCartney, Christian Dior and Chloe.
Small and medium-sized dresses were also hung up in pristine condition wrapped in tissue paper in his wardrobes along with women's wigs, including one Mr Williams had bought on a recent trip to Las Vegas.
Internet searches by Mr Williams and a video taken on his Apple iPhone suggested he wore the shoes.
The 31-year-old excelled as a spy, producing "world-class" codebreaking intelligence for MI6 and the GCHQ eavesdropping station.
Colleagues, friends, family and police queued up to pay tribute to his extraordinary ability, which saw him land a first-class mathematics degree at 17.
But the teetotal fitness enthusiast lived a solitary personal life that was dramatically removed from the world of espionage.
Police, who painstakingly pieced together his unlikely interests, discovered a fiercely private bachelor fascinated by women's clothes and drag queen culture.
He enrolled on a fashion course and collected 20,000 of unworn designer women's clothing at his pristinely tidy flat, including 26 pairs of women's shoes designed by Christian Louboutin, Stella McCartney, Christian Dior and Chloe.
Small and medium-sized dresses were also hung up in pristine condition wrapped in tissue paper in his wardrobes along with women's wigs, including one Mr Williams had bought on a recent trip to Las Vegas.
Internet searches by Mr Williams and a video taken on his Apple iPhone suggested he wore the shoes.
2012年4月26日星期四
Kate Upton In Louboutin Heels: Swimsuit Model Proves She Can Toss A Football In Pumps
Kate Upton is not afraid to play with the boys -- in 5 1/2 inch heels, no less. The swimsuit model stopped by FOX and worked on her football throws with Jason Pierre-Paul of the New York Giants. And we must say, she has a pretty good arm.
Though Upton didn't land any of her passes in the tiny hole in the net, she did succeed in showing off her athletic abilities
in a white tweed jacket, black skinny jeans and Christian Louboutin pumps.
You've got to give it to her. The Sports Illustrated model showed that she doesn't just have the looks, but can actually toss a football around with a FOX sportscaster and a Giants defensive end.
Maybe she's been practicing her spiral with Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Watch the clip above to see Kate's huge heels and don't miss the creepy sportscaster -- you'll know the one.
Video, Kate Upton, Jets Quarterback Mark Sanchez, Kate Upton 2012, Kate Upton Jason Pierre-Paul, Kate Upton Fox, Kate Upton Heels, Kate Upton Hot, Kate Upton Pumps, Kate Upton Sports Illustrated, Kate Upton Video, Photo Galleries, Sports Illustrated Model, Style News
Though Upton didn't land any of her passes in the tiny hole in the net, she did succeed in showing off her athletic abilities
in a white tweed jacket, black skinny jeans and Christian Louboutin pumps.
You've got to give it to her. The Sports Illustrated model showed that she doesn't just have the looks, but can actually toss a football around with a FOX sportscaster and a Giants defensive end.
Maybe she's been practicing her spiral with Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Watch the clip above to see Kate's huge heels and don't miss the creepy sportscaster -- you'll know the one.
Video, Kate Upton, Jets Quarterback Mark Sanchez, Kate Upton 2012, Kate Upton Jason Pierre-Paul, Kate Upton Fox, Kate Upton Heels, Kate Upton Hot, Kate Upton Pumps, Kate Upton Sports Illustrated, Kate Upton Video, Photo Galleries, Sports Illustrated Model, Style News
2012年1月12日星期四
6 Killer Heels From Shoe God Christian Louboutin
I'll admit that I've always been mystified by designer shoes. The logic of spending hundreds or thousands of dollars to wear what amounts to not just one spiky torture device but two is totally lost on me. Still, I can appreciate Christian Louboutin--he of the glossy scarlet soles and the slender, towering stilettos--on pure aesthetic grounds. As a forthcoming exhibit at the Design Museum in London shows, the guy knows how to make a hot shoe.
Christian Louboutin surveys 20 years of the French fashion icon's footwear designs, from lace-up boots and studded sneakers to crystal-encrusted stilettos and sky-high fetish heels that'd make Betty Paige blush. “Louboutin's shoes are the epitome of style, glamour, power, femininity and elegance,” the museum says. And all the right people seem to agree: Madge and Lady Gaga count among Louboutin's loyal boldface fans.
But his success was hardly a shoo-in (pardon the pun). He wasn't formally trained, and before he started his own brand in 1991, he worked as a garden designer. During his teenage years, he hung around stage doors in Paris and took an internship sewing buttons and feathers at Folies Bergère--experiences that no doubt shaped his theatrical sensibility. His genius has been to take the oozing sex appeal of showgirls and cabaret and turn it into a footwear empire. Louboutin is clearly some kind of artist. Now if he could just figure out how to make a 6-inch heel comfortable, that'd really be a work of art.
Christian Louboutin surveys 20 years of the French fashion icon's footwear designs, from lace-up boots and studded sneakers to crystal-encrusted stilettos and sky-high fetish heels that'd make Betty Paige blush. “Louboutin's shoes are the epitome of style, glamour, power, femininity and elegance,” the museum says. And all the right people seem to agree: Madge and Lady Gaga count among Louboutin's loyal boldface fans.
But his success was hardly a shoo-in (pardon the pun). He wasn't formally trained, and before he started his own brand in 1991, he worked as a garden designer. During his teenage years, he hung around stage doors in Paris and took an internship sewing buttons and feathers at Folies Bergère--experiences that no doubt shaped his theatrical sensibility. His genius has been to take the oozing sex appeal of showgirls and cabaret and turn it into a footwear empire. Louboutin is clearly some kind of artist. Now if he could just figure out how to make a 6-inch heel comfortable, that'd really be a work of art.
2012年1月5日星期四
Louboutin red-sole trademark case: color war at the 2nd Circuit!
When the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit hears oral arguments later this month in shoe designer Christian Louboutin's appeal to protect his trademark on red lacquered soles, the court will be presented with two starkly different views of what purpose color serves in fashion design.
Louboutin, who is known around the world for the flashy Chinese red on the bottom of his posh high heels, will argue that the colored soles serve only to identify the Louboutin brand. Louboutin's red soles, according to the designer's lawyers at McCarter & English, are purely brand ID, just like Owens-Corning's pink fiberglass or Tiffany's robin's-egg blue packaging. (Tiffany filed an amicus brief endorsing Louboutin's interpretation of color and trademarks.)
Yves Saint Laurent has countered that Louboutin, by his own admission, had an aesthetic purpose for lacquering the soles of his shoes red. So, according to YSL's counsel at Debevoise & Plimpton, Louboutin is not entitled to a trademark under the U.S. Supreme Court's 1995 opinion in Qualitex v. JacobsonProducts, which holds that a color can be trademarked only when it "can act as a symbol that distinguishes a firm's goods and identifies their source, without serving any other significant function." When color serves an aesthetic function (as YSL contends it does in Louboutin's shoes), it cannot be trademarked.
On Wednesday, YSL's interpretation of trademark law got a boost from a group of 11 law school professors, who filed an amicus brief in support of YSL. "This court should recognize that the shadow cast by a mark in a single color on a fashion item creates enormous uncertainty for other designers and should regard claims of single-color trademarks in fashion with considerable skepticism," the professors asserted in a brief written by Rebecca Tushnet of Georgetown University Law Center.
Interestingly, the law professors' filing argued that if the 2nd Circuit permitted trademarks on colors that serve an aesthetic function, it would be muddling the distinction between trademark and patent law. Trademarks aren't supposed to confer the same sort of monopoly power as design patents, and Louboutin's broad assertion of its trademark right on the color red was anticompetitive, the brief said. The professors, like YSL's lawyers, distinguished between Louboutin's red soles and Tiffany's blue boxes, which don't impinge design choices of other jewelers.
That was certainly the view of U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero of Manhattan federal court, who ruled in August that Louboutin was not entitled to an injunction barring YSL's all-red shoes. In a ruminative opinion that quoted J. Lo and compared shoe designers to artists, the judge went on to conclude that the Louboutin trademark has an aesthetic function and hinders competition.
Louboutin filed an interlocutory appeal, arguing that Marrero erred on both points. "By putting a distinctive red color on the previously ignored bottom portion of the shoe, Louboutin established a strong brand identifier. The red outsole has no [other] utility," the Louboutin brief said. And Marrero's conclusion about hindering competition was mere supposition, according to the brief, since he ruled without a factual record on the competitive impact of Louboutin's mark.
YSL responded that if the record is incomplete, that's because Louboutin is pushing the 2nd Circuit for an interlocutory appeal. Not that YSL fears what it considers Louboutin's forcing of the trademark issue: "On this record, it would be highly unusual for the Second Circuit to say, 'We think an injunction should be issued,'" said YSL counsel David Bernstein of Debevoise. "That likelihood is remote." Bernstein pointed out that even if the 2nd Circuit agrees that Louboutin deserves its trademark, it will then have to consider all of the YSL defenses that the trial judge never even reached because he found the trademark improper. "This whole exercise is a waste of resources," Bernstein said.
Louboutin, who is known around the world for the flashy Chinese red on the bottom of his posh high heels, will argue that the colored soles serve only to identify the Louboutin brand. Louboutin's red soles, according to the designer's lawyers at McCarter & English, are purely brand ID, just like Owens-Corning's pink fiberglass or Tiffany's robin's-egg blue packaging. (Tiffany filed an amicus brief endorsing Louboutin's interpretation of color and trademarks.)
Yves Saint Laurent has countered that Louboutin, by his own admission, had an aesthetic purpose for lacquering the soles of his shoes red. So, according to YSL's counsel at Debevoise & Plimpton, Louboutin is not entitled to a trademark under the U.S. Supreme Court's 1995 opinion in Qualitex v. JacobsonProducts, which holds that a color can be trademarked only when it "can act as a symbol that distinguishes a firm's goods and identifies their source, without serving any other significant function." When color serves an aesthetic function (as YSL contends it does in Louboutin's shoes), it cannot be trademarked.
On Wednesday, YSL's interpretation of trademark law got a boost from a group of 11 law school professors, who filed an amicus brief in support of YSL. "This court should recognize that the shadow cast by a mark in a single color on a fashion item creates enormous uncertainty for other designers and should regard claims of single-color trademarks in fashion with considerable skepticism," the professors asserted in a brief written by Rebecca Tushnet of Georgetown University Law Center.
Interestingly, the law professors' filing argued that if the 2nd Circuit permitted trademarks on colors that serve an aesthetic function, it would be muddling the distinction between trademark and patent law. Trademarks aren't supposed to confer the same sort of monopoly power as design patents, and Louboutin's broad assertion of its trademark right on the color red was anticompetitive, the brief said. The professors, like YSL's lawyers, distinguished between Louboutin's red soles and Tiffany's blue boxes, which don't impinge design choices of other jewelers.
That was certainly the view of U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero of Manhattan federal court, who ruled in August that Louboutin was not entitled to an injunction barring YSL's all-red shoes. In a ruminative opinion that quoted J. Lo and compared shoe designers to artists, the judge went on to conclude that the Louboutin trademark has an aesthetic function and hinders competition.
Louboutin filed an interlocutory appeal, arguing that Marrero erred on both points. "By putting a distinctive red color on the previously ignored bottom portion of the shoe, Louboutin established a strong brand identifier. The red outsole has no [other] utility," the Louboutin brief said. And Marrero's conclusion about hindering competition was mere supposition, according to the brief, since he ruled without a factual record on the competitive impact of Louboutin's mark.
YSL responded that if the record is incomplete, that's because Louboutin is pushing the 2nd Circuit for an interlocutory appeal. Not that YSL fears what it considers Louboutin's forcing of the trademark issue: "On this record, it would be highly unusual for the Second Circuit to say, 'We think an injunction should be issued,'" said YSL counsel David Bernstein of Debevoise. "That likelihood is remote." Bernstein pointed out that even if the 2nd Circuit agrees that Louboutin deserves its trademark, it will then have to consider all of the YSL defenses that the trial judge never even reached because he found the trademark improper. "This whole exercise is a waste of resources," Bernstein said.
2011年7月12日星期二
Christian louboutin expansion fast
In Las Vegas, Caesars Palace the French designer launched it's latest Christian louboutin boutique on June 30th.
designer shoes Eric Clough who is the colleague and assistant of Mr.Louboutin develop the store's design and concept. This time is the men's collection.
A number of styles exclusive to brand boutiques will be available for both men and women, from the glitter and calf leather men’s Alfie flat to a ladies’ Madame Butterfly pump crafted from sumptuous python.
Christian Louboutin expansion very fast. In this year, opened a store in Brazil, Brasilia. And it is the second store in the capital city.
Designer shoes sale online, Designer Shoes To You, Up To 75% On Designer Brand. Variety of designer shoes including Boots, Pumps, Sandals,flats, wedges and other High Heels with top quality.
2011 latest handpicked, save your money up to 75% from our online stores.
designer shoes Eric Clough who is the colleague and assistant of Mr.Louboutin develop the store's design and concept. This time is the men's collection.
A number of styles exclusive to brand boutiques will be available for both men and women, from the glitter and calf leather men’s Alfie flat to a ladies’ Madame Butterfly pump crafted from sumptuous python.
Christian Louboutin expansion very fast. In this year, opened a store in Brazil, Brasilia. And it is the second store in the capital city.
Designer shoes sale online, Designer Shoes To You, Up To 75% On Designer Brand. Variety of designer shoes including Boots, Pumps, Sandals,flats, wedges and other High Heels with top quality.
2011 latest handpicked, save your money up to 75% from our online stores.
订阅：
博文 (Atom)