Summer would not be summer without the summer dress...and the less fabric the more popular for heated season. Therefore there is no reason why this year the halter dress is THE DRESS. Every fashion magazine has shown this realization and Hetty is no different. In addition to the creative lack of fabric above the waist, halter dresses also give the consistent and of course independent option of color and style. Creativity is the one major thing we salute in Hetty and this dress is beyond and all around that objective.
Style meaning the cut of not only the straps but where they lie and the cut of what is below it. (Just above the waist of course). Whether its v neck, square neck or so low v neck it hits ur belly button....the list can go on and on...if only the summer could do the same thing? Even despite these aspects, there also is a joining of sorts to the designer's choice of dress cut and the realization that....as a previous post pointed out this is the season of the shoulder and with the halter the shoulder gets some show...with a little additive of fabric wrapped nearby.
Advice to use this is to know your figure no matter how fabulous the dress is. While it is still the year of the shoulder you should always listen to that fashionista within as well as the full length mirror in front of you. But remember to love what you wear as much as you love yourself....otherwise the outfit just doesn't work.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
A Designer's Life
Designer, artist, or a creative soul, whatever you might want to call, we never sleep.
We are always looking for ways, techniques, and inspirations to make our product better, more creative and more pleasing to the eye. That’s what makes our profession different from any other. We are always on a run for ideas; we never know what will inspire us, whether it’s a bird, a tree, piece of furniture, texture on the streets or fabric, music or an emotion. It’s absolutely beyond our immediate understanding. The creative juices are always flowing, in our dreams, in our thoughts and in our hearts. We are constantly thinking how to make a product better, even when we are watching what other people are wearing. We are always thinking how I would have made it better or worn it different etc.
The day of a designer starts with perhaps meditating in the morning for calming our soul for a fresh start, for a new day or for some having a cup of coffee, running in the shower to get ready for a corporate job that doesn’t wait for us but we want to run to or after. After bathing, we perhaps look at our closest to decide whether we want to look creative today or perhaps professional, or should we go with the Chanel look or the Dior, or Cavalli for that matter. After all that’s decided then comes the accessories, the hair, makeup and the jacket depending on the mad and unpredictable weather of New York.
On the train either reading WWD (Women’s wear daily, the bible of the Fashion Industry) or figuring out what’s the first thing we need to do once we reach the office or simply sleeping and for some who are always running late and wearing makeup on the train, while the people around are watching and wandering why the makeup cant be worn at home or why is it even important to wear makeup.
The day at work, stress, stress, and some more stress. Deadlines, communicating with over seas factories for issues and concerns, calling fabric, trim vendors, asking them when are we getting the buttons, when is the fabric reaching the office, negotiating prices, searching magazines for inspirations, getting the projects done for presentations for the buyers, getting projects done for meetings, color meetings, meetings with vendors, trend meetings, sales meetings. Then we say to ourselves, if we have so many meetings how can we meet deadlines, how will we have time to create something which is so beautiful and divine and at the same time sellable. Alas lunch time, lunch is usually on our desk in front of our computer, while we are having lunch we are also emailing or figuring out what next, should we tackle an easier project first or something less complicated or should be just sketch and create away to glory and finally we look at our wrist to see what time it is, whether it is end of the day yet or not or can we go home early today or perhaps not.
A designer not all creates but sees the process and makes sure everything a garment needs is there. From a sketch we bring it to reality, a reality which we see people wearing or perhaps even on the runway.. It’s just like a baby.
Tapti Tapan
Designer
Soul By Tapti Tapan
We are always looking for ways, techniques, and inspirations to make our product better, more creative and more pleasing to the eye. That’s what makes our profession different from any other. We are always on a run for ideas; we never know what will inspire us, whether it’s a bird, a tree, piece of furniture, texture on the streets or fabric, music or an emotion. It’s absolutely beyond our immediate understanding. The creative juices are always flowing, in our dreams, in our thoughts and in our hearts. We are constantly thinking how to make a product better, even when we are watching what other people are wearing. We are always thinking how I would have made it better or worn it different etc.
The day of a designer starts with perhaps meditating in the morning for calming our soul for a fresh start, for a new day or for some having a cup of coffee, running in the shower to get ready for a corporate job that doesn’t wait for us but we want to run to or after. After bathing, we perhaps look at our closest to decide whether we want to look creative today or perhaps professional, or should we go with the Chanel look or the Dior, or Cavalli for that matter. After all that’s decided then comes the accessories, the hair, makeup and the jacket depending on the mad and unpredictable weather of New York.
On the train either reading WWD (Women’s wear daily, the bible of the Fashion Industry) or figuring out what’s the first thing we need to do once we reach the office or simply sleeping and for some who are always running late and wearing makeup on the train, while the people around are watching and wandering why the makeup cant be worn at home or why is it even important to wear makeup.
The day at work, stress, stress, and some more stress. Deadlines, communicating with over seas factories for issues and concerns, calling fabric, trim vendors, asking them when are we getting the buttons, when is the fabric reaching the office, negotiating prices, searching magazines for inspirations, getting the projects done for presentations for the buyers, getting projects done for meetings, color meetings, meetings with vendors, trend meetings, sales meetings. Then we say to ourselves, if we have so many meetings how can we meet deadlines, how will we have time to create something which is so beautiful and divine and at the same time sellable. Alas lunch time, lunch is usually on our desk in front of our computer, while we are having lunch we are also emailing or figuring out what next, should we tackle an easier project first or something less complicated or should be just sketch and create away to glory and finally we look at our wrist to see what time it is, whether it is end of the day yet or not or can we go home early today or perhaps not.
A designer not all creates but sees the process and makes sure everything a garment needs is there. From a sketch we bring it to reality, a reality which we see people wearing or perhaps even on the runway.. It’s just like a baby.
Tapti Tapan
Designer
Soul By Tapti Tapan
Monday, May 12, 2008
Fashionable Tech: The Next Generation
Without realizing it, mobile phones have become a part of the fashion industry landscape in recent years. When people leave their homes, their phones now are going everywhere with them. The styles of cell phones are changing like every fashion trend, slim phones, flip phones, red phones, and iPhones, as people make statements about themselves. This is not a North American phenomenon, but a global one, with over 3 billion mobile phone users worldwide.As phone models and colors were the early fashion statements, ringtones and digital content have started to provide the next level of personalization in most recent years.
Whether it's 50 Cent or Madonna, hip hop or pop, people change ringtones regularly to express their moods and their individuality. People from all over the world are downloading ringtones as a fashion accessory, whether it comes from Hollywood in the US or Bollywood in India, this is truly a global fashion trend.The ringtones fashion industry was a multi-billion dollar business in the US alone this year, and is expected to increase as more artists and fashion designers enter the market. As the business grows, exports of this new content will grow, with Indies becoming a bigger part of the market.
Like in the fashion world, for all the big names there are thousands of independent designers making their mark, as is the case of digital content. For every Madonna, there are thousands of independent artists that are trying to become the next big hit. Same is the scenario with wallpapers as new fashion magazines and modeling agencies have started to sell exclusive mobile wallpapers of their models globally. Welcome to Fashion 2.0 as the digital age becomes a bigger part of individual expression.
For more information or to get the new fashion tech bug, check out www.ooober.mobi.
Layla Robin,
Contributing Tech Writer
Whether it's 50 Cent or Madonna, hip hop or pop, people change ringtones regularly to express their moods and their individuality. People from all over the world are downloading ringtones as a fashion accessory, whether it comes from Hollywood in the US or Bollywood in India, this is truly a global fashion trend.The ringtones fashion industry was a multi-billion dollar business in the US alone this year, and is expected to increase as more artists and fashion designers enter the market. As the business grows, exports of this new content will grow, with Indies becoming a bigger part of the market.
Like in the fashion world, for all the big names there are thousands of independent designers making their mark, as is the case of digital content. For every Madonna, there are thousands of independent artists that are trying to become the next big hit. Same is the scenario with wallpapers as new fashion magazines and modeling agencies have started to sell exclusive mobile wallpapers of their models globally. Welcome to Fashion 2.0 as the digital age becomes a bigger part of individual expression.
For more information or to get the new fashion tech bug, check out www.ooober.mobi.
Layla Robin,
Contributing Tech Writer
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Recycling at its Best~For The Fashion World!
Recently, I came across an amazing designer who, in her own way, averted from the usual by the most miniscule but strengthened aspect: the material she uses. Palvika Rathod, a United Kingdom local uses all hand embroidered using recycled threads and fabrics. The result is not only independent and incredible, but also very femine. Inspired by global fashion and creating a collection of mainly dresses. .The operating principle behind her label is simple: reusing surplus such as off-cuts, pre consumer surplus, end of roll, damaged fabrics at the end of each producing season.
All of her collections are entirely made up unwanted and discarded materials. Despite this, they are as she stated perfectly useable, and still functional; each piece is individually cut from high quality reclaimed fabrics including cotton, jersey, tweeds and wovens but no silks.
Her findings come from rescue efforts from their journey towards destruction and individually customised with elaborate crochet trims and details. The result is simple shapes for maximum wearability and try to balance between a contemporary approach to fashion design and an ethical solution to borrowing from past materials.
As a result of this, she has also shaped her participation in fashion events to this objective. For example, she has taken part in a chartity fashion show called Mode north West in carlisle hosted by Helena King and Garth Gatrix. She also takes part in events for social objectives such as taking part in fashion for peace event in Kenya to to promote peace after the recent political crisis.
This line is incredible to say the least, Hetty invites you to research this designer.....she will become an obession of yours as it has mine.
Stay Fabulous!
Heather Bachman
Editor-In-Chief
All of her collections are entirely made up unwanted and discarded materials. Despite this, they are as she stated perfectly useable, and still functional; each piece is individually cut from high quality reclaimed fabrics including cotton, jersey, tweeds and wovens but no silks.
Her findings come from rescue efforts from their journey towards destruction and individually customised with elaborate crochet trims and details. The result is simple shapes for maximum wearability and try to balance between a contemporary approach to fashion design and an ethical solution to borrowing from past materials.
As a result of this, she has also shaped her participation in fashion events to this objective. For example, she has taken part in a chartity fashion show called Mode north West in carlisle hosted by Helena King and Garth Gatrix. She also takes part in events for social objectives such as taking part in fashion for peace event in Kenya to to promote peace after the recent political crisis.
This line is incredible to say the least, Hetty invites you to research this designer.....she will become an obession of yours as it has mine.
Stay Fabulous!
Heather Bachman
Editor-In-Chief
Monday, May 5, 2008
A Decoration of Dreams
Hetty would like to invite you to one of many designers we call our Obsession worthy picks: SOul by Tapi Tapan...please see below a personalized invitation and discussion straight from the designer!!!!
I have a line of womens wear, cocktail dresses as well as contemporary wear. The line consists of long and short dresses in unique fabrics, trims and textures. I also have a full line of home textile collection which consists of duvet covers, cushion covers, pillow cases and curtains, and lampshades. The home line consists of beautiful fabrics, texture and colors. The lampshades were sold at ABC carpet and home.
I have held two fashion shows, have exhibited at the jacob javit home textile show, and also have held a solo exhibition for a non-profit organization.My stuff can be viewed underhttp://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7867695694
Stay Fabulous!!!!!
I have a line of womens wear, cocktail dresses as well as contemporary wear. The line consists of long and short dresses in unique fabrics, trims and textures. I also have a full line of home textile collection which consists of duvet covers, cushion covers, pillow cases and curtains, and lampshades. The home line consists of beautiful fabrics, texture and colors. The lampshades were sold at ABC carpet and home.
I have held two fashion shows, have exhibited at the jacob javit home textile show, and also have held a solo exhibition for a non-profit organization.My stuff can be viewed underhttp://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7867695694
Stay Fabulous!!!!!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Rockin it with Style....
While it's highly unlikely Eric Ginsberg ever sat down with his band the New Originals one night and devised an on-stage uniform of loin cloths and hairnets, the idea of aesthetic unity has never been short of desirable. Much to his disdain, each member of the band has shot it down without so much as an afterthought.
“I'd really love to get back to the Beatles' idea of everybody wearing this kind of uniform look” says the 26-year-old singer/songwriter from the Jersey Shore, “but I just can't talk my band into it.”
The Beatles, easily the root of motivation for thousands, if not millions of bands across the globe, went through their share of phases. While something as eccentric as the Sergeant Pepper's look would certainly catch the eye, Ginsberg has an earlier sense of style in mind.
“I'm talking about the Ed Sullivan look” he boldly states. “Matching suits with no collars; the idea of the whole band dressing nice and just matching.”
Unable to talk his band into a uniformed look, Ginsberg has opted to diversify his own collection via the closet collections of friends and family. Dubbed as “retro chic”, the frontman is very meticulous about his stagewear of vintage clothing. And he's not afraid of taking a few chances.
“I find that when I take a risk I often get a few compliments out of it” Ginsberg says, stifling a chuckle.
Ginsberg, who says anyone not finding inspiration from the Beatles is lying to you, is clearly one of the most honest musicians around. His music blends an upbeat vibe with catchy hooks for a combination more lethal than letting an alcoholic loose in an open bar.
And yet lyrically Ginsberg takes inspiration from life experiences, more often than not focused around the opposite sex. On his 2003 release I'm Glad I'm Not As Good As You, Ginsberg released a song titled “Painfully Attractive.” This, of course, has it's story.
“I was working at a record store on Long Island and there was this cute girl named Tara” Ginsberg says, as I picture the thought bubble slowly forming above his head. “It was difficult to just work around her at the time, but right now I can't even remember her last name. I couldn't even track her down if I wanted to.”
Needless to say, my image of the bubble burst immediately, replaced instead by the sounds of our unified laughter.
Does this make Eric Ginsberg a hopeless romantic?
“Sure” he said with a laugh. “You can print that.”
As Eric Ginsberg and the New Originals head back into the studio to work on a new album, the man at the mic may routinely find his ideas of stylistic unity kicked to the wayside with a collective thumbs down. In any case, Ginsberg will continue to pursue his music career with an individual drive for success and a sense of style.
- Frank Della Femina
Music/Fashion Reporter
“I'd really love to get back to the Beatles' idea of everybody wearing this kind of uniform look” says the 26-year-old singer/songwriter from the Jersey Shore, “but I just can't talk my band into it.”
The Beatles, easily the root of motivation for thousands, if not millions of bands across the globe, went through their share of phases. While something as eccentric as the Sergeant Pepper's look would certainly catch the eye, Ginsberg has an earlier sense of style in mind.
“I'm talking about the Ed Sullivan look” he boldly states. “Matching suits with no collars; the idea of the whole band dressing nice and just matching.”
Unable to talk his band into a uniformed look, Ginsberg has opted to diversify his own collection via the closet collections of friends and family. Dubbed as “retro chic”, the frontman is very meticulous about his stagewear of vintage clothing. And he's not afraid of taking a few chances.
“I find that when I take a risk I often get a few compliments out of it” Ginsberg says, stifling a chuckle.
Ginsberg, who says anyone not finding inspiration from the Beatles is lying to you, is clearly one of the most honest musicians around. His music blends an upbeat vibe with catchy hooks for a combination more lethal than letting an alcoholic loose in an open bar.
And yet lyrically Ginsberg takes inspiration from life experiences, more often than not focused around the opposite sex. On his 2003 release I'm Glad I'm Not As Good As You, Ginsberg released a song titled “Painfully Attractive.” This, of course, has it's story.
“I was working at a record store on Long Island and there was this cute girl named Tara” Ginsberg says, as I picture the thought bubble slowly forming above his head. “It was difficult to just work around her at the time, but right now I can't even remember her last name. I couldn't even track her down if I wanted to.”
Needless to say, my image of the bubble burst immediately, replaced instead by the sounds of our unified laughter.
Does this make Eric Ginsberg a hopeless romantic?
“Sure” he said with a laugh. “You can print that.”
As Eric Ginsberg and the New Originals head back into the studio to work on a new album, the man at the mic may routinely find his ideas of stylistic unity kicked to the wayside with a collective thumbs down. In any case, Ginsberg will continue to pursue his music career with an individual drive for success and a sense of style.
- Frank Della Femina
Music/Fashion Reporter
Monday, April 28, 2008
Is My Tie Conservative Enough? A look into Politics and Fashion
Does fashion matter in politics? Yes it does. Should it matter? Well, let’s see.....If you are involved with politics, not only does your policy have to have an appeal, but so does your appearance. While I strongly believe that a politician’s attire has nothing to do with his stance on the issues, the public seems to focus on their attire.
For men, the basic attire is a dark suit, white shirt and a solid or striped tie. However, I like to do various styles....especially ones of the independent level. For example, if and when male politicians were to wear polka-dot ties, I am pretty confident that it will be a huge appeal to women voters. However, there is nothing wrong with the usual....such as the old fashioned and never out of style pinstripes. I cannot describe in words how big of an affect pinstripes has on people. A three-piece pinstripe suit is very spicy and yet conservative. Personally, I would sport a pinstripe suit with a polka-dot tie so that attention is brought to the suit, the tie, and the appeal of the person. It has a sophisticated, eloquent, classy and conservative touch.
In politics, you can look conservative, but classy as well. Brooks Brothers, Joseph A. Banks, Stafford and Ralph Lauren are some of the basic conservative attire worn by public officials. This is indeed a good choice of clothing, and I not only approve it...but also wear it myself....with a little spice at times too. To do this: Express, Banana Republic and Gap are my favorites. Their pattern of shirts and ties are somewhat similar to Brook Brothers and Stafford, but with a little bit more of a classy appeal.
Then there is the accessories. Suspenders for example, although viewed as an elderly man look in some circles, has become very popular in this modern era. Not only do young men wear them, but it is becoming popular among young women as well.
As a member of the political arena: I have taken this all to heart but still do a little mix of everything to bring out my personal fashion appeal. For example: striped shirt with a polka dot tie is conservative and stylish at the same time. Dressy plaid pants are a favorite of mine because it brings attention to you and it stands out and people like things that are different.
There has been an absolute narrowing of fashion in the political world, even certain ties have specific relevance in politics. For example, if I was giving a State of the Union address, I’ll sport a black suit, white wide-collar shirt, and a blue tie to symbolize unity, compassion and the strength of the nation. If I am giving a War on Terror speech, I would wear a red tie to symbolize power, authority, and boldness. A gold tie with a blue shirt symbolizes confidence and optimism. This would be appropriate for a politician accepting the nomination for their party. They have to be hopeful and confident not only for their party, but for the nation as well. Hence, it just goes to show you yet again that style even in the most subtle forms can speak volumes.
However, Many politicians may worry that some colors or styles may be too bold or too loud. I would like to argue that sometimes it is good to take a risk because it will appeal to the younger and more modern generation. I like the striped ties and solid ties, but taking a risk is more acceptable. Suspenders, polka dot ties, plaid pants are not expected in politics. Therefore, if you bring about change in fashion, it is quite possible that more and more people would be attracted to the politician, as well as to politics.
-Demetrius Minor
Social Fashion Writer
For men, the basic attire is a dark suit, white shirt and a solid or striped tie. However, I like to do various styles....especially ones of the independent level. For example, if and when male politicians were to wear polka-dot ties, I am pretty confident that it will be a huge appeal to women voters. However, there is nothing wrong with the usual....such as the old fashioned and never out of style pinstripes. I cannot describe in words how big of an affect pinstripes has on people. A three-piece pinstripe suit is very spicy and yet conservative. Personally, I would sport a pinstripe suit with a polka-dot tie so that attention is brought to the suit, the tie, and the appeal of the person. It has a sophisticated, eloquent, classy and conservative touch.
In politics, you can look conservative, but classy as well. Brooks Brothers, Joseph A. Banks, Stafford and Ralph Lauren are some of the basic conservative attire worn by public officials. This is indeed a good choice of clothing, and I not only approve it...but also wear it myself....with a little spice at times too. To do this: Express, Banana Republic and Gap are my favorites. Their pattern of shirts and ties are somewhat similar to Brook Brothers and Stafford, but with a little bit more of a classy appeal.
Then there is the accessories. Suspenders for example, although viewed as an elderly man look in some circles, has become very popular in this modern era. Not only do young men wear them, but it is becoming popular among young women as well.
As a member of the political arena: I have taken this all to heart but still do a little mix of everything to bring out my personal fashion appeal. For example: striped shirt with a polka dot tie is conservative and stylish at the same time. Dressy plaid pants are a favorite of mine because it brings attention to you and it stands out and people like things that are different.
There has been an absolute narrowing of fashion in the political world, even certain ties have specific relevance in politics. For example, if I was giving a State of the Union address, I’ll sport a black suit, white wide-collar shirt, and a blue tie to symbolize unity, compassion and the strength of the nation. If I am giving a War on Terror speech, I would wear a red tie to symbolize power, authority, and boldness. A gold tie with a blue shirt symbolizes confidence and optimism. This would be appropriate for a politician accepting the nomination for their party. They have to be hopeful and confident not only for their party, but for the nation as well. Hence, it just goes to show you yet again that style even in the most subtle forms can speak volumes.
However, Many politicians may worry that some colors or styles may be too bold or too loud. I would like to argue that sometimes it is good to take a risk because it will appeal to the younger and more modern generation. I like the striped ties and solid ties, but taking a risk is more acceptable. Suspenders, polka dot ties, plaid pants are not expected in politics. Therefore, if you bring about change in fashion, it is quite possible that more and more people would be attracted to the politician, as well as to politics.
-Demetrius Minor
Social Fashion Writer
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
