December 2, 2009

Fantasy, Magic, Fashion! Sonia Rykiel Pour H&M’s Unforgettable Paris Party

Kate Bosworth, Eva Herzigova and Nadja Auermann partied together with fashionistas in a magical world in Paris last night to celebrate the launch of Sonia Rykiel pour H&M. The Grand Palais, one of the city’s most famous buildings, was transformed into a Parisian fantasy land for around 2,000 guests. Among them were stars such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Ellen von Unwerth and Emanuelle Béart, who walked through an enchanted forest before arriving at a recreation of Saint Germain, the spiritual home of Sonia Rykiel. Then, seated under a specially made Eiffel Tower, guests were given a preview of the Sonia Rykiel pour H&M lingerie collection, which debuts in around 1,500 H&M stores worldwide from December 5, as well as the knitwear collection for women and girls, which arrives in around 200 stores on February 20, 2010.

“It was all about the brilliance of Paris and of Sonia Rykiel. We wanted to give our guests a story-like experience, let them enter a fantasy world where they could discover the Sonia Rykiel pour H&M collections and let themselves go”, says Nathalie Rykiel, artistic director and president of Sonia Rykiel.

“It was the most magical evening. Sonia Rykiel is so totally Parisian, the epitome of chic. This is the spirit of the Sonia Rykiel pour H&M collections that shone through at the party last night. It was such a thrill to work with a fashion icon like Sonia Rykiel. We are really happy with the collections, which we feel is 100 percent Sonia Rykiel. The lingerie collection is really the perfect Christmas gift”, says Margareta van den Bosch, H&M’s creative advisor.

Held on the first night of December, the H&M party for Sonia Rykiel truly marked the start of the festive season. Embodying the essence of Paris as much as Sonia Rykiel herself, the glittering city inside the Grand Palais was like a sparkling and surreal theme park for adults. The collections were displayed on floats which emerged from a recreation of the Arc de Triomphe, with a Parisian funfair as backdrop.

“I’ve always been a big fan of Sonia Rykiel. To me she is so feminine, and so wonderfully dramatic, like a big glittery bow on a dress. It’s crazy here, I wasn’t expecting this. It’s like a mini carnival,” says Kate Bosworth.

“I love Sonia Rykiel, and I love the association with H&M. Sonia Rykiel is like a revolution in fashion. She makes sexy clothes, but ones that are very modern, cool and feminine. She’s super-clever and super-talented and I have big, big admiration for her,” says Jean Paul Gaultier.

“I think it’s very Sonia Rykiel to have her presentation with H&M here. She’s so Paris, and I don’t think she could have had it anywhere else,” says Eva Herzigova.

*Images courtesy of H&M/Sonia Rykiel

Inspired by Sonia Rykiel’s beautiful lingerie collection?  Why not wear it on the outside!  Check out the latest lingerie-inspired trends here.

December 1, 2009

JCPenney To Bring Mango’s European Runway Fast Fashion at Affordable Prices to JCPenney Customers

MNG By Mango to be Centerpiece of JCPenney’s Contemporary Assortment; Arrangement Combines JCPenney’s Merchandising and Marketing Expertise with Mango’s World-Renowned Leadership in Design and Fast Fashion

Mango and J. C. Penney Company, Inc. today announced their intention to enter into an agreement under which JCPenney will become Mango’s exclusive department store retailer in the United States for the “MNG by Mango” brand.  Mango, one of the world’s top international “fast fashion” retailers with more than 1,300 stores in 94 countries, is known for rapidly delivering European runway fashion at affordable prices. As JCPenney’s largest contemporary brand, MNG by Mango will bring a representation of Mango to JCPenney, and will dramatically expand the brand’s presence in the United States where there are currently 12 Mango stores.

The MNG by Mango brand will include a full lifestyle offering of career and casual sportswear as well as accessories sold only at JCPenney.  Additional highlights of the agreement include:

  • Known for its highly defined brand concept, centered on original design for the modern woman, quality product and a unified brand image, the partnership will utilize Mango’s talented design team and fast fashion sourcing with JCPenney’s sophisticated logistics network and industry leading planning and allocation tools to deliver compelling assortments twice monthly.
  • Planned to be the largest rollout ever of any fast fashion concept, MNG by Mango will be a specialty store within JCPenney and the centerpiece of a newly designed contemporary area in the core of JCPenney stores.
  • Beginning Fall 2010, MNG by Mango will launch in up to 75 stores and on jcp.com, with plans to expand to approximately 600 stores by Fall 2011.

“Fast fashion for the young, modern woman is our highest-potential business opportunity. We have long been intrigued with fast fashion, and through the recent launches of our own private brands, she said® and City Streets®, we’ve experienced great success and confidence in expanding this offering to our customers,” said Myron E. (Mike) Ullman, III, chairman and chief executive officer.  “We’ve definitely been ’stepping up our style’ over the last several years, and having MNG by Mango exclusively will further establish JCPenney as a first choice destination for the best, affordable contemporary fast fashion in the U.S. The Mango name has become synonymous with fashion at a moderate price and for innovation in creating quality merchandise at enormous speed.  We look forward to working with the Mango team to bring this same excitement to U.S. consumers, and to helping Mango build on the incredible success it has achieved around the world.”

“Every time we bring Mango to a new international market, it has driven immediate, strong demand, and we have only begun to capitalize on the great desire for Mango in the U.S.,” said Enric Casi, Mango’s CEO. “JCPenney is the perfect match for us to take advantage of the opportunity we see for the MNG by Mango brand in this market. JCPenney is increasingly known as a leader in affordable, style and has an exceptional track record in merchandising and marketing contemporary brands for the U.S. customer.  We are thrilled to see that come to life with our MNG by Mango brand.”

The MNG by Mango brand will be showcased in a compelling, unique store environment that will encompass approximately 1,000 square feet in JCPenney stores, and will anchor a new contemporary merchandise area located in the center core of the women’s apparel department, which is JCPenney’s top-performing division. This new contemporary area will also feature other leading JCPenney private and exclusive brands, including she said®, Bisou Bisou®, I Heart Ronson® and ALLEN B®, and will be on the floor adjacent to Sephora inside JCPenney. JCPenney will market the MNG by Mango brand aggressively through its integrated marketing campaigns, including online, digital, television, direct mail and preprint.  MNG by Mango will also be part of JCPenney’s promotional merchandise cadence.

“MNG by Mango brings a European runway aesthetic with mass appeal to JCPenney through a unique partnership that capitalizes on the strengths of each of our businesses to deliver clear benefits,” said Liz Sweney, executive vice president and general merchandise manager of women’s apparel at JCPenney.  “MNG by Mango will resonate strongly with our fastest-growing customer segments, as well as with the younger customers who we have attracted through the major enhancements we have made in our contemporary assortment. We look forward to working with the exceptionally talented team at Mango and to bring their extraordinary brand to our customers.”

About JCPenney
JCPenney is one of America’s leading retailers, operating 1,109 department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com, and the nation’s largest general merchandise catalog business. Through these integrated channels, JCPenney offers a wide array of national, private and exclusive brands which reflect the Company’s commitment to providing customers with style and quality at a smart price.

About Mango
MANGO is an international brand dedicated to the design and commercialization of fashion, is aimed at urban women aged 18 to 40 and is one of Spain’s top two exporters in the textile sector.

The firm began its international expansion in 1992 with the opening of two franchises in Portugal. Today, it is present in 94 countries in all five continents with more than 1,300 stores. Thanks to its rapid international expansion, the company has fulfilled its aim: to have a store in every major city in the world.

December 1, 2009

Stella McCartney and Morrissey to design leather-free footwear

Stella McCartney and Morrissey to design leather-free footwear

Music and fashion often go hand in hand, with some of our favorite bands and singers leading the way when it comes to stylish clothes.

Therefore it may come as no surprise that Stella McCartney and former Smiths frontman Morrissey have teamed up on an exciting new project.

The pair, who are both vegetarians, are collaborating on a new range of leather-free footwear and as Stella McCartney fans, we can’t wait to see the results.

She said: "I’m working with Morrissey on a line of leather-free shoes which I’m really excited about. We are still in the early stages, but the shoes could be launched next year."

They’re unlikely to resemble the fabulous over-the-knee boots from her recent collection that many famous faces and celebrity stylists have been sporting, but we’re sure these designs will be fantastic.

Stella is the daughter of former Beatles member Paul McCartney and his late wife Linda, who was known for being a vegetarian and animal rights activist.

Do you think it is a good idea for Stella McCartney to venture into the world of leather-free shoes?ADNFCR-2845-ID-19488539-ADNFCR

 

December 1, 2009

Zac Posen to design for Target Go International range

Zac Posen to design for Target Go International range

We love it when some of our favorite designers decide to do collaborations, because it gives us the chance to get our hands on some fabulous fashion-forward clothing.

This is why we were excited to hear that Zac Posen has become the latest person to design a collection for the Target Go International range.

Launching in April next year, his creations will join others from Erin Fetherston, Jovovich-Hawk, Rogan and Jonathan Saunders, who have all collaborated with the brand on previous occasions.

There is even more good news if you are a fan of the New York-based designer, as he recently announced that he will be introducing a lower-priced Z Spoke line exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue next Spring.

The designer was just 21 when he launched his label and although his first show at a synagogue in the Big Apple received mixed reviews, we are happy to say he has now become renowned for his sharp tailoring and little cocktail dresses.

Are you a Zac Posen fan who will be eager to get your hands on one of his new collections?ADNFCR-2845-ID-19488226-ADNFCR

 

November 30, 2009

Ask Our Stylists Series: Pairing Your Vest With the Perfect Shoes

Today in the Ask Our Stylists blog series, stylist Andrea Hennessey is helping one of our lucky readers choose the perfect shoes to pair with a trendy vest.

Fashion Dilemma: I’ve noticed a lot of vests appearing in magazines and runways. What kind of shoes work well with vests?

Tips From Stylist Andrea Hennessey: Right now vests are very hot. You can find celebrities and fashion icons all over wearing this trend! And with so many variations, from sweater vests to tuxedo vests, there’s one out there to fit every girl’s style.  Here are some simple tips to consider when choosing a shoe to complete your look:

For winter, a hot pair of boots is the perfect choice to wear with a vest. Try not to match the boots exactly to the vest but get a pair in the same color family as your outfit. Being matchy-matchy is not as important as it used to be! If you are bold enough to rock a vest, try and be bold with your shoe choice. If you have a black vest, choose a shoe with a bright pop of color to add some funk to the outfit.  You can’t go wrong with boots or a high closed-toe stiletto.

Lindsay Lohan in La Rok Vest. Photo credit: ihearthat.com

Blake Lively in Inhabit vest. Photo credit: inhabitny.com

Some excellent shoe choices:

Belle Boot by Sigerson Morrison

Echo Needle Heel Boots by 7 For All Mankind

Rock & Republic Celina Suede Platform Pumps

Dying to get some expert advice from stylists who’ve worked with the likes of Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors, and Marc by Marc Jacobs? Send your questions to info@myfashionplate.com and every week our seasoned stylists will take turns solving your fashion dilemmas.  And if you just can’t wait, head over to the FREE Fashion Q & A or consult stylist Andrea Hennessey for instant satisfaction.

MyFashionPlate.com Stylist Andrea Hennessey

About the author: A graduate of the prestigious Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Andrea Hennessey is inspired by fashion trends emerging in cultures throughout the world.  Six years of industry experience and a love for travel contribute to her eclectic style and unique client offering.

November 30, 2009

Ditch those heels and dare to wear flats

Ditch those heels and dare to wear flats

When you’re getting ready for a night out, one of the first things you probably reach for is a great pair of heels.

We all know that they can do wonders for your legs and make you feel a million dollars when you step into a bar, but would you ever consider going out in a pair of flat pumps?

We think that it is time to give your feet a break and take a leaf out of Kate Moss’ book next time you are heading to a party.

The fashionista recently went out in a stylish all-black outfit consisting of a top, leather skirt and fringed bag, finished off with patent black ballet shoes.

We know your feet may be used to wearing towering heels, but a pair of flats could be the perfect finishing touch when paired with a cute dress and bare legs. You can even go for shorter skirts without feeling like you are flashing too much flesh.

Another celebrity fan of flat shoes is Alexa Chung, who often leaves her heels at home and opts for comfy pumps on the red carpet.

Would you give your feet a break and wear flat shoes for a night out? Or are you a firm fan of heels?ADNFCR-2845-ID-19485698-ADNFCR

 

November 30, 2009

Try gothic glamour ‘for a daringly dark look this winter’

Halloween may be over, but it seems that many designers want us to embrace all things gothic and go over to the dark side this winter.

From creepy cobwebs to vintage glamour, everyone from Burberry Prorsum to Alexander McQueen seems to be taking inspiration from Morticia Addams and conjuring up clothing that wouldn’t look out of place in a haunted mansion.

While the likes of Mary-Kate Olsen pioneered the gothic grunge trend in the past, this season it is all about sophistication and witchy glamour, Vogue reports.

Stella McCartney, who recently announced that she will be creating a second range of her popular kids clothing for Gap, sent her models down the runway in fantastic black dresses featuring dramatic panels of sheer lace.

Meanwhile, Prada’s girls were deathly pale with backcombed hair.

We also love Lanvin’s raven feather fascinators – perfect if you want to add a gothic touch without going over the top.

Will you be adding some spooky glamour to your wardrobe this winter?ADNFCR-2845-ID-19485892-ADNFCR

 

November 30, 2009

Sparkle in sequins this Christmas

Sparkle in sequins this Christmas

With Christmas just around the corner the party season is well and truly upon us and you know what that means.

Yes, it’s the opportunity to pull on your dancing shoes and feel festive in a fabulous dress and this season sequins are one of the hottest trends from the catwalk.

It is all about glamming up and channeling the spirit of the 80s with metallics and luxurious details, as Kylie Minogue proved when she stepped out in a sparkling silver Matthew Williamson mini dress recently.

Many of the top designers are at it, as the Age reports that while Armani Prive dazzled with giant disks, Derek Lam combined metallics with Grecian drapes.

Just be careful not to go too over the top with this trend. Keep your accessories to a minimum and "be sure that any embellishment at the collar or chest frames your face, not detracts from it", the publication advises.

If you don’t dare go head to toe in sequins, then why not go for some eye-catching jewelry or a dazzling bag to work this trend?ADNFCR-2845-ID-19485254-ADNFCR

 

November 27, 2009

Combine Chic Sandals and Socks for a Fashion-Forward Look

Combine Chic Sandals and Socks for a Fashion-Forward Look

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of forward-thinking, so we’ve been keeping one eye on next year’s spring/summer trends.

One look that has already proved to be a hit on the catwalks, and could help to bring a ray of sunshine to your overcast December days, is colorful pop-socks with wedge sandals.

Vogue recently picked up on this fun and girlish look, recommending that sock-wearers pair them with "open-toe sandals and polished legs come the cocktail hour".

Alternatively, you could team some iridescent pop-socks with a pair of ankle boots for a distinctive daytime look.

Fashion houses that have been spearheading next year’s sock styles include Dior, Burberry Prorsum and Chloe, who created a military style by adding ribbed men’s army socks to a pair of simple sandals.

Like Vogue, we’ve also been impressed by the pieces on show at Hermes, where black socks and strappy white sandals have been used to give a striking contrast.

Founded in Paris in 1837, Hermes is renowned for its signature silk scarves and its accessories are a favourite of stars such as Elle MacPherson, Elizabeth Hurley and Nicole Kidman.

So, will you be flaunting your socks before next year’s trend arrives?
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November 27, 2009

Get Smart for the Party Season with the Tuxedo Trend

Get Smart for the Party Season with the Tuxedo Trend

If you’re yet to embrace this year’s tuxedo trend, the upcoming Christmas party season should give you the perfect excuse to do so.

We’ve noticed many celebrities stepping out in tuxedo-style outfits, while designers such as Stella McCartney and Balmain have displayed the look in recent collections.

Kate Moss and Helena Christensen have worn a tux over a dress, while stars such as Anne Hathaway and Sarah Jessica Parker have teamed dinner jacket-style pieces with black trousers for a more businesslike look.

As Marie Claire said recently, "radical riffs on the classic men’s tuxedo" are a chic alternative to traditional eveningwear this season.

The magazine also noted that it doesn’t have to be black, as there’s "a tuxedo version of every trend of the season" – from bright tropical colors to retro velvet.

Tuxedos for women first came to the attention of the fashion world in 1966, when Yves Saint Laurent unveiled his famous Le Smoking suit.

So why not leave your favourite winter trench coat in the wardrobe and opt for some tuxedo style on your next festive soiree?
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