WWD Announces FGI's Rising Star Finalists!

Guess what, taffetadarlings?  I am happy to report that I am a finalist in the women's ready-to-wear category for the Fashion Group International's, 2012 Rising Star Awards!  I am so excited!  I know that many of you have all followed my progress over the last eighteen months and it seems like just yesterday that I launched my debut collection for Spring 2011.  Time flies when you're crazy busy having fun!

clipping from WWD

The winners (in seven different categories) will be announced on January 26th and I'm keeping my fingers crossed not only for myself, but for my girl, WendyB, who is a finalist (second year in a row!!!) in the fine jewelry category.  Read Wendy's post here.
 

Wendy Brandes holding Henry in a tweed and leather STACY LOMMAN dress

This wonderful news couldn't come at a better time since I am working on a new collection for Fall 2012.  Talk about motivation!!  And I've just started a new campaign on Kickstarter, so if you want to help an up-and-coming designer, please click the link and see what I'm up to this season.

On The Rise With FGI!

I have great news taffetadarlings  -- I've been nominated for The Fashion Group International's 2012 Rising Star Awards!  The Fashion Group (a.k.a. FGI) is an International non-profit organization made up of industry professionals in apparel, interior, accessories, advertising, marketing, publishing, PR and beauty.  Let's just say they cover anything fashion related. 

Lightweight Neoprene Zip Front Jacket & Asymmetric Skirt (Spring 2012)

Photo: Shane LaVancher

I am honored to be up for the award in the women's RTW category and I feel flattered, excited and nervous all at the same time.  While I know that I'm up against some steep competition, I'm remaining optimistic -- I hope that when my peers head over to FGI headquarters to cast their votes, they will be impressed with the pieces I've selected to showcase.  I'm quite happy with them!

Slate Grey Cropped Jacket & Pencil Skirt in Cashmere (Fall 2011)

Photo: Shane LaVancher

Whatever the outcome, I want to thank all of my supporters, sponsors and friends who have helped me and followed me from the beginning when I launched "Precious Metal" for Spring 2011. Most of you know that one of my greatest advocates is Wendy Brandes (who is also a dear friend). In fact, quite a few of you who found me on this little blog were referred by WendyB.  So, what makes this awards competition that much sweeter for me is the fact that Wendy is a nominee in the fine jewelry category. How great is that? She was a finalist last year (missed it by a hair) and I have a really good feeling this time -- have you seen her new Empress Wu dragon earrings? Need I say more?

Grey Wool Motorcycle Jacket With Silver Foil Print (Fall 2011)

Wool/Mohair Mini Skirt (Fall 2011)

Photo: Randy Brooke

Judging will take place between December 6th - December 13th and after the votes are counted, candidates will be informed as to whether or not they are a finalist in their category.  Of course, I truly hope to make it to the last round so please keep your fingers crossed for me. 

Night of Stars!

I'm a lucky girl!  I was fortunate enough to be invited (by the publisher of Lookonline, Ernest Schmatolla) to cover FGI's 28th Annual Night of Stars on October 27.  You can read the full article on Lookonline's website HERE. 

with David Byrne

Though it was thrilling to be surrounded by so many fashion greats under one roof, I must admit that for me, the highlight of the evening was meeting Talking Heads' David Byrne.  I'm a long time fan.  He was extremely gracious and I was, well, hopefully not a giddy mess!

in my safety orange rip-stop dress and wendy brandes earrings

Luckily, I was able to squeeze into one of the new Biohazard pieces from my spring 2012 collection and I was thrilled to accessorize the orange gown with some stunning Wendy Brandes earrings.  Like I said, I'm a lucky girl!

The Emperor's FAB Clothes!

Just a typical day in NYC -- hustle, bustle, traffic jams, train delays, smelly subway platforms, crowded subway cars...  Sometimes a city girl has to stop, take the good with the bad, soak it all in and appreciate how lucky she is to live in such a marvelous, colorful town.  So, that's exactly what I did the other day when I found myself on the #6 train sitting next to none other than the Emperor of New York City!  That's right, I said the Emperor!  Yah, I didn't know there was such a thing either.

one of the cards the Emperor gave me (he is on the left)

For those of you who aren't familiar with the Upper East Side, suffice it to say it's not exactly edgy.  Think UGG boots, little dogs, manis, pedis, nannies, baby carriages and lots of girls named Alexis.  Even in NYC, unique people attract a lot of attention.  And so, when a tall stately man wearing a fur stole, an awesome top hat with two extra large, curved plumes and rocks for rings on each and every finger (with nails painted black) was spotted on the train, people stared.  Alexis' jaw dropped.  A boy in a Pittsburgh Steelers tee shirt, (obviously a tourist), took a photo with his phone.  I didn't bat an eye.  I'm jaded.  But, then I noticed the rings.  Then, I noticed the earrings.  I thought about passing him WendyB's card!  Then, I noticed the pretty fan he carried with what seemed to be seven feet of tassel dangling off the bottom.  He had to keep picking it up off the floor and draping it over his lap, delicately sitting it on top of the fur stole.

another postcard

Okay, I was intrigued.  Okay, I was more than intrigued.  "Who is this fabulous man?" I thought.  It takes a special kind of person to walk around in such an outfit.  It takes a confident, social and creative person.  Well, that's my kind of person!  So, I waited till we hit Union Square and it just so happened we both exited the train at that stop.  I just HAD to find out who this dude was... what he did... what his story was.  So, I asked what he did for a living.  "What don't I do?" he said.  "I'm the Emperor of New York."  To which I responded with a chuckle.  I quickly realized he was dead serious.  "Oh, I didn't even know there was an Emperor," I said.  Luckily, that didn't offend his Royal Highness (is that appropriate in this case??) and he told me about all the fundraisers and parties he attends as an official representative of NYC.  Cool.  I want that gig!  And so we exchanged cards and I scooted along because I was running ten minutes late as per usual and I left him to be accosted by a group of Hasdic Jews for a photo opp (which I found kind of odd)!  Such a New York moment!!

thinking maybe I should go to this!

BIOHAZARD Is The New BLACK

I'm happy to report that my Spring 2012 show was a success and the Biohazard Collection was well received.  I'll be putting together a post very soon, but I wanted to share a few photos as well as a glowing review from WendyB (click here).

Stay tuned... more to come!

Make It Work!

Being a diligent designer, I'm doing my very best to take Tim Gunn's advice!  But, I'm trying to make it work MY way -- the only way I know how.  I'm back on the genius site, Kickstarter, to fund my latest collection.  It was just one year ago that I first dipped my toes into the crowdsourcing pool on the advice of one of my biggest supporters, Wendy Brandes.  I was thrilled at the response I received and even more thrilled that I raised the money to put on my first runway show. 

Tim must be obeyed

Most of you know the story and most of you sponsored me.  Thanks!  It's been an amazing feeling to finally be designing my own collection rather than someone elses.  That's been my goal since I was a young girl, so I don't see any reason to turn back now.  I've made quite a bit of progress over the last year (WWD, Huffington Post, LIFE, Dstripped Mag, DFR) and I sincerely believe my big break is coming!  It takes time.  Rome wasn't built in a day, as they say.  I'm still working on getting my foot in the door with a store that is willing to buy more than one or two pieces of a style.  Persistence is key.  In order to be persistent, I need to be relevant which means, I need to consistently show collections.  Season after season.  You need to be in it to win it, so to speak.

my sketch in WWD - September 15, 2011

So, until I find a backer (I love when people suggest that to me like it's something that never occurred to me -- I'd much rather somebody could give me a name and a number!) or until I get a big order from Neiman's (Ken Downing, I love you!), I'm going to need to find other ways to finance my shows/collections.  Another one of my favorite suggestions that I get all the time is, "Why don't you get a celebrity to wear one of your pieces?"  To which I respond, "GREAT idea!  Do you know any?"  Then, there is usually an awkward pause.

Kim... you're my girl!  Let me dress you!

Anyway, I guess you can say I'm a little naive in that I still believe that people can become successful based on talent, hard work and sticking around long enough.  Well, you need to take all that, add being in the right place at the right time and sprinkle in a little luck!  That's the recipe.  So, you guys are my luck.  Help me make it happen!  Sponsor my Spring 2012 line (click this link or the widget)... any amount is appreciated and every little bit helps.  Spread the word!

Let's let Tim know that we "made it work!!"

The Royal Wedding: Who Will Kate Wear?

It's nearly upon us.  The much talked about and much celebrated union of Prince William and "commoner" Kate Middleton -- we'd all be lucky to be that common.  The world has been waiting with baited breath to see the bride's dress.  Buckingham Palace has been very tight-lipped about Kate's decision (well, that's assuming it's actually Kate's decision to make), however, there has been quite a bit of speculation and rumor.  Will it be McQueen?  Apparently, Alexander's successor, Sarah Burton, has denied the gossip, but I'm not so sure there isn't some truth the the whispers.  We'll find out soon enough. 

Gareth Pugh, Spring 2009

Photo: Marcio Madeira via Style.com

Meanwhile, I posted a little poll to see what my taffetadarlings thought (please vote on the sidebar).  McCartney?  A very good possibility, plus her dad's a knight.  Westwood?  Maybe.  After all, she came back in 2006 to win British Fashion Designer of the Year after receiving it fifteen years prior.  She's proven that she's a contender.  Or, will Kate go with Diana's guy, Bruce Oldfield?  These are all obvious choices, but Middleton might surprise us all by selecting a frock by some obscure designer (who will inevitably rise to fame immediately thereafter), or by donning something avant-garde by Gareth Pugh, Victor & Rolf or maybe even Pam Hogg.  Maybe not.  Most likely not!

Victor & Rolf, Spring 2011

Photo: Monica Feudi/GoRunway.com via Style.com

Additional note:  I cannot believe how many horrible knock offs of the Royal Ring I've seen.... this one takes the Royal Wedding Cake -- for only $19.99 it can be yours!

"The Official Royal Wedding Ring" As seen on TV! 

(a.k.a. "Cheap Piece of Garbage") 

Wouldn't you rather have these incredibly detailed and exquisitely crafted pieces by Wendy Brandes? 

Matilda Sword Earrings by Wendy Brandes

White and yellow 18K gold

Two rose-cut diamonds

Four sapphires

$10,000

Matilda Sword Necklace by Wendy Brandes

18K white gold sword pulls out of 18K yellow gold scabbard

Two rose-cut diamonds

Four blue sapphires

$7,600

Just Say NO... To Bunnies And Chicks!

my bunny Miles (Netherland Dwarf)

May 1999 - May 2008

It's that time of year again... baskets, bonnets, pretty dresses and pastels.  Cadbury, Peeps, egg hunts and the smell of fresh cut grass.  Spring is in the air.  And, of course, Easter time means bunnies and chicks.  I thought it would be fitting to repost my Easter piece from last year because I still have the same message...

Original post from 4.4.2010

little "Miss Miles" (I thought she was a boy when I first got her and never bothered to change her name!)

 
Since it is Easter and I am a bunny person, I wanted to remember my dear little pet "Miles" who passed away nearly three years ago at the ripe old age of nine. What is that in bunny years anyway? I ADORED my little pipsqueak more than anything and spoiled her rotten. I miss her everyday :-(
 

she was trained so well - she could jump for her treats!

 
Many people feel that Easter is an appropriate time to purchase little fluffy chicks or baby bunnies for their little ones, but they don't take the time to research and understand that these animals require just as much love, attention and care as a dog or cat.  A lot of times, children are excited and fascinated with their new pets for a few days and quickly become bored and ignore the animals, or even worse, neglect them.
 

Miles lounging in one of her beds

 
 

Miles lounging in my bed!

 
As if animal cruelty isn't rampant enough, every year around this time an overwhelming number Easter "bunnies" are abandoned or harmed.  If you know anybody who is considering buying a rabbit as a gift, please let them know about this and maybe they will reconsider.  They should really look into rescuing a poor little fluff ball that needs a home as opposed to purchasing a brand new, shiny one.
 

I didn't get her as a gift... I just did really annoying things to her which she tolerated (against her will!)

Sorry to get all "preachy," this is just something near and dear to my heart.

my sweetie

UPDATE: WendyB kindly sent me this article from the Wall St. Journal. Thanks Wendy!!

Is There A Silver Lining?

My Fall Collection is causing friction.  Immediately after my show, two of my friends ran back stage to try on the silver motorcycle jacket  -- the first look down the runway.  Jewelry designer and blogger, WendyB, has been a faithful client of mine for a while now, so I certainly have to get her a jacket of her own.  Beauty editor and good friend, Candice Sabatini jokingly said to Wendy, "We'll have to fight for it."  I'm thrilled at the response this little sample stirred up just minutes after it appeared on the catwalk, but I don't want anyone to get hurt!

Left: Wendy Brandes poses in my silver jacket

Right: Candice Sabatini in the silver sample

Photos: Randy Brooke

Several days later, I began putting my lookbook together and thought what a great piece it would be to get into Barney's!  I'm aiming high my taffetadarlings!  Why not?  I love all of my "babies" from my fall line, but I do think this one has a wide range of appeal.  Perhaps it's the "dress me up, dress me down" aspect of the design, perhaps it's the shape, or the fabric. Or maybe it's just simply, cool!

Model: Polina Mawuli

Photos: Randy Brooke

Last Friday I participated in a charity fashion show (more on that later) for the tsunami victims in Japan.  There were other designers showing as well, including two menswear designers, therefore, there were male models present.  Bonus!  Anyway, I became friendly with a few of them and one in particular, Justin Rinehart, was quite taken with.... the silver jacket!  "I'm obsessed with this jacket," he said.  "It's very McQueen," he added.  Okay, I don't know if that's total BS, but I loved him for saying it! 

Model: Polina Muwali

Photos: Randy Brooke

So now, I've got three people fighting over one jacket and one of them happens to be a guy!  Looks like I'll just have to do a production run on this piece, doesn't it?  Maybe you guys will actually see this in Barney's someday soon.  Here's hoping!!

This Is Fashion People -- BE ORIGINAL!

Many of you know by now that IFB founder and author of The Coveted (the original!), Jennine Jacob, is dealing with a situation!  It's a ridiculous situation that doesn't even come with a six pack (that was just for you, Jersey Shore fans)!  I won't attempt to explain the entire legal situation (Jennine clarifies it in her post on January 27th), but apparently somebody else coveted the name "The Coveted" and acquired it to launch their own fashion blog.  Now, if they were smart they would have started with a search from the get-go to see whether or not that name was already occupied (hyphen or no hyphen) -- at least in the same type of category.  And if they were aware of fashion blogging at all, I dare say they should have been aware of Jacobs' The Coveted and IFB.  Shame on them if they were "not in the know."  I mean, IFB is one of the main reasons fashion bloggers even have a voice/platform today.  So, it seems as though these "new coveted" or "faux coveted" mean girls are not only ungrateful, but they are taking advantage of the foundation that Jacobs' laid and benefiting from all of her hard work.  Not cool.  Sign the petition to support Jennine and the ORIGINAL Coveted.  Also, WendyB started fundraising efforts to help out.  Wendy is offering to donate to the cause, a generous amount from every sale made on her fun 'swear rings', OMG, LOL and NYC rings!! There is also the option to contribute monetarily without making a purchase.  So, come on fashion bloggers, let's unite.  Fight the fight!  We all owe a lot to Jennine.

To attend IFB's amazing Fashion Blogger Conference during New York Fashion Week, click here to get your ticket now... they are going fast!!

Shine Brightly!

Snow is not my friend.  We do not like each other.  I am a warm weather girl, but I cannot imagine actually living anywhere other than New York City, so I suck it up and take the bad with the good.  I have, on occasion, contemplated Los Angeles, but every time I visit I feel a bit alien and am anxious to return home to my city.  I have been accused of being an elitist New Yorker (granted, it was by my parent's neighbor in FL who had to ask what a fig was when I described how I had stuffed them with blue cheese and wrapped them in prosciutto for an appetizer).  But, I digress...

So, I just took the long way around or the scenic route to simply say that I hate snow, but love New York!  Suffice it to say that it takes a very special occasion to get me out of my sweatpants and warm, dry apartment and into sub-freezing temperatures, wicked winds and slushy puddles.  Well, yesterday was one of those very special occasions.  I risked the tundra and nearly got 'taxi splashed' all over my charmeuse to attend the Fashion Group International's Rising Star Awards.  My very dear friend and talented jewelry designer, Wendy Brandes, was among the five finalists in the fine jewelry category.  BRAVO!

Center: Rising Star finalist in the fine jewelry category, Wendy Brandes

Left to Right: me, BarbaraB, Christine, WendyB, Alyssa, Tina

Tensions were high in Cipriani's grand ballroom, but Team Wendy was confident.  FGI President, Margaret Hayes, introduced host, Jamie Pallot of Conde Nast who cleverly joked, "Snow is the new black."  Keynote speaker, Norma Kamali gave an inspiring speech and commended all of the finalists for achieving what only the most elite in the industry have.  And that is not an understatement.  Although WendyB may not have won (this time!), it was an extremely close race and she could just as easily have taken home the award yesterday.  Congratulations Wendy!!! 

Copy Cat!

I just couldn't resist this adorable photo of my 1 1/2 year old nephew, Adam, and then it hit me -- acorns!  No, not an actual acorn (although that has happened more than once and I always feel like such an idiot -- I look around wondering, "Did anyone see that?").  Darling WendyB blogged about her wee darling nephew, Sebastian, a few days ago and mentioned his obsession fascination with acorns.  I guess little kids love acorns.  And sticks.  And holes to put the sticks in and pretty much anything on the ground.  So, since I have nothing inspiring to blog about today, I thought I would copy WendyB (everyone else does!)

Adam and his acorns.  Amore!