What special events do you have coming up? Is someone who is very important to you taking you somewhere special, or do you find that you have a special occasion where you need to look your best?
This is where looking into the charm and icy grace of white cocktail dresses can come in, and when you are in a place where you love being able to move forward with a style that most people would not dare wear, this is something that you need to look into. Take some time and take a look at the different white cocktail dresses out there; there are plenty of great styles and chances are good that you will find yourself in a place with a dress that will really suit you!
When you are looking at how you are going to find the right white dress, make sure that you look at your skin tone. If you have a very warm skin tone, you might be best off with a white dress that has just a little touch of beige or gold to it; this can keep your skin from looking to dull.
On the other hand, if you have a lot of pink or even blue to your skin, think about finding the iciest white that you can. White is a color that can be worn by just about anyone and when you are ready to find out more about what you can wear, this is something that is important to keep in mind. Wearing white can be wonderfully formal, and it can give you a certain important elegance and grace.
If you are interested in wearing a white cocktail dress, it is going to be important to look at design and what you love. For instance, if you are someone who has a love of the classics, you will find that you are in a place where you need to look at the simple white cocktail dress, which is the white counterpart of the little black dress.
This is a perfect dress for just about any occasion, so take some time, and make sure that you find the one that is going to suit you. Another thing that you might enjoy is a dress that has been trimmed with silver in some way. A little bit of silver edging and or even a silver design on your white dress can turn it into something that is perfect for the occasion.
Do you like the idea of a long dress or a short one? There is a call for all lengths at this point, and you will find that you can learn a lot just by looking around. While super short skirts are not in, a skirt that comes in above the knee is certainly appropriate. You may also love dresses with full skirts that come down to tea length or even below; this can be a perfect way to get the look that you are after.
Take some time and make sure that you browse through the white cocktail dresses that are available online. They can help you create the sensation that you are after.
~Please visit Freeway Fashion's affiliate partner, MaxStudio.com for a variety of choices on beautiful white cocktail dresses at fabulous prices! Fashion consultant, Laura Hunt of Freeway Fashion can also help style you for that special occasion. For more information send an email to laura@freewayfashion.com.
Let's face it, you don't have to be 'into' fashion that much to know that Paris has always been synonymous with style. Spending four days there last week gave me the opportunity to truly observe the Parisian woman and do my own little bit of investigating on why they are considered to be the most stylish of all women. Of course, this was also a nice excuse to do some champagne sipping while cafe hopping and people watching!
It was very easy for me to distinguish the locals from the tourists. Every once in a while, a stylish passer-by would make it a little difficult for me to determine whether they were tourist or local, but for the most part, it was pretty easy to tell. How? Well, the stylish Parisian woman knows the art of looking stylish without trying too hard. It was more so in her attitude than her clothing. Another important factor: Parisian women dress their age. And by saying that, I don't mean the 50-something woman walked around in dowdy, floral sweaters and elasticized trousers. It also didn't mean the young 20-something woman walked around over-accessorized or flaunting her figure with what I call 'disposable trendy clothes' from Forever 21. This isn't to say I haven't found a few great pieces at Forever 21 myself!Just pointing out you don't have to buy all 165 trendy piece they offer to be young and stylish. Quite refreshingly so, Parisian women somehow know how to dress very stylishly while embracing where they are in life and they just exude a senses of confidence and respect about the way they carry themselves no matter what age.
What was the stylish Parisian woman wearing? This time of year brought about hats of all shapes and sizes. This made me ecstatic as I LOVE hats and don't really get to wear them much while home in Florida. I packed three with me and bought one during my trip. I'm in love with it and thank goodness for my travels to cold places will get to wear it a few times before Spring! There were lots and lots of shorter (but not too short) skirts and shirt dresses with black or colored opaque tights or leggings worn with completely flat boots or low-heeled ankle boots. I saw shorter structured jackets and double breasted long coats and some women layered with three or four scarves. This also made me happy as most of you know, the scarf is one of my favorite accessories! Skinny jeans tucked into riding type boots with boyfriend shirts or slightly baggy cashmere sweaters layered with scarves and a swinging peacoat was a favorite look of mine. However, being a fashion stylist and image consultant, I know my body first and what looks best on me and I am way too top heavy (ahem...large breasted) to sport a swing coat of any kind. Still, I love the look and would recommend it to my clients who can wear this style. I, instead, put together the exact same look for myself but finished with a double breasted trench instead of a swing coat. Another favorite look I saw was white on white. Yes, that's right. Not only can you wear white after Labor Day, you can layer your white tops with a white scarf. Oh, très chic!
The bottom line about Parisian women is that they wear well cut clothes that suit their figures and are appropriate for their age categories and they wear them with confidence. You know I've read a quote where someone says, "Parisian women are sexy at any age, because they dress for men. Whereas, American women dress for other women. I think there may be something to that.
Whether you choose to embrace the Parisian style and attitude or not, just always remember my rule: All looks and styles can be transformed and adjusted to fit your body type - you just have to know what flatters your figure most. If you don't know, well that's why I'm here and why women hire me! (hint! hint!)
There's a deep level of appreciation I have for the stylish Parisian woman. I found out long ago that my grandfather on my mom's side is French, so this may explain my inherent comfortable feel of just belonging there and loving it so much. In fact, I plan on making more trips to Paris in the future to study the styles and fashions and bring them to my clients in the U.S. Or perhaps it's just my excuse for more outdoor cafes, champagne sipping and just the overall, how do you say it? Je ne sais quoi of Paris! (Photo to the left is me in front of the Louvre Palace)
Freeway Fashion's affiliate partner, Smashbox, is now offering four steps to your most flawless face ever! Don't know which foundation is right for you? Smashbox has made it a cinch with their new foundation guide. By simply answering four key questions, you will be on your way to putting your best (and most flawless) face forward! Step 1: Select your shade level. There are seven to choose from and it goes from: Fair to dark. Step 2: Select your undertone. Undertone is the overall cast of your skin, most visible when your face is bare. Step 3: Choose the level of coverage you want: Sheer, medium or full. Step 4: Choose the finish you want: Semi-matte, semi-luminous or luminious.
Voila! You will have your perfect color match for a flawless and radiant face!
Coming from a woman who has what people jokingly call "birthing" hips, I embraced the word "curvy" a long time ago. Yes, I have learned to accept that REAL WOMEN have curves. That's why it is was so nice to see Calvin Klein select a model like Eva Mendez with measurements well above zero for the launch of Body, their new shape enhancing fit jeans.
Calvin Klein, known for jeans and underwear, has taken the best of both of these worlds and created Body, a new design of jeans focused on comfort. By paring down details of embellishments and concentrating on the fact that most women have curves, Body was born and thus, a creation of jeans for a more body conscious look. This exciting & revolutionary collection for Fall 2009 includes skinny leg for women, and classic straight-leg cut, sexy on all body types. It’s a line designed for a more contoured and shape enhancing fit for today's REAL WOMAN. Eva Mendez is certainly a real woman and if you remember, her first TV ad for Calvin Klein Obsession was banned all over the U.S. I'm pretty certain the sizzling print ads for Body have caused some raised eyebrows and stirred a bit of trouble. I think Calvin Klein likes the thought of "stirring", don't you?
Since its launch in 1978, Calvin Klein Jeans has been recognized as the authentic designer jeans brand. Even today, thirty years after the introduction of the signature Omega stitched pocket, the brand is looked to for consistently great fits, unique details, innovative treatments -- and ground-breaking advertising campaigns. Freeway Fashion is pleasantly pleased to have partnered with such an innovative, stylish line!
Click the banner below to visit Calvin Klein Jeans and check out new arrivals and recent markdowns. Also, FREE SHIPPING on all orders for $100 or more!
I am a huge fan of warm summer weather and sexy summer fashions. However, after months of light and airy fabrics coupled with oh so sexy peep-toe shoes, I find myself looking forward to the creativity of layering and wearing the must-have boots that are synonymous with fall weather.
There are many fall must-haves this year, but today I would like to point out two very important ones: Before the middle of October, every woman should be sure her closet is well equipped with plenty of heavy weight leggings and a pair (or in my case, two or three) of sassy ankle boots!
I stress heavy weight on the leggings because I have noticed some women wearing sheer ones with their long shirt dresses and over-sized sweaters and this, well, just looks unclassy and need I say a bit tacky? I know sometimes you buy them without realizing they are sheer until you get home and put them on. Sometimes this simply means you need a larger pair! Or better yet, I recommend ordering a pair of Ponte leggings from MaxStudio.com. Slimming, heavy weight and can be worn tucked into ankle boots, with gladiatress platforms or under dresses for a fabulous fall look!
Now on to the next fall must-have. Ankle boots. The ankle boot actually returned back in the scene in 2007, but it took a little while for women to catch on and truly welcome this 80's return. Now two years later, the ankle boot is strong in the fashion scene and definitely a must-have for every woman! Once viewed as just a flashback fashion re-run, this stylish boot now actually modernizes any look! I have become a fan of tucking mine into my skinny jeans and sometimes wearing with leggings and a dress. Have no fear though, Divas. I know skinny jeans don't flatter every body type, but you don't have to be able to wear them to pull off this look. I have secrets I will share on how to still get this oh so stylish look with other cuts of jeans. Just give me a call! MaxStudio.com offers a stylish pair of ankle boots (on sale now for only $165 from $220) and let me tell you, these are cute, cute, cute! They have a sculpted wooden heel, soft leather and small platform. I own a pair of these and believe me, they are so comfortable, they make each step you take a tad more effervescent!
So there you go, Divas. Two fall must-haves you should not miss out on if you plan on (as we like to say at Freeway Fashion) staying stylish! If you need further style advice on how to wear these two recommended fall must-haves, just send an email to laura@freewayfashion.com and I will be more than happy to help!
Freeway Fashion is proud to be an affiliate partner of MaxStudio.com.
Returning to his brand’s heritage and philosophy of “Great American Style,” designer Peter Dooney introduces a new collection for Fall with striking images of iconic American beauty, Maggie Rizer, as the face of Dooney & Bourke.
To symbolize the spirit of the collection Dooney collaborated with Rizer who is a model, actress, and AIDS activist. “In addition to representing the perfect American girl-next-door Maggie is a dynamic woman, balancing her many projects and her tireless fundraising activities. She lives a hectic life as we all do,” said Dooney.
Rizer follows in the footsteps of leading ladies Mischa Barton, Lindsay Lohan, Emma Roberts and Hayden Panettiere. For the current season, Rizer is featured with the company’s new Juliette Bag, shown here in gold nylon with leather trim. This casual shoulder bag can be worn cross body or carried by its chic handles, retails for $185. Phyllis Dooney served as art director and worked with famed fashion photographer, Tesh, for this season’s ad campaign. The campaign was shot on location at Peter Dooney’s farm in Greenwich, Conn. The new creative debuts in the October issues of Elle, InStyle, Lucky, Teen Vogue and Vogue.
The collections featured in the advertising campaign promise to be the hottest new handbags this Fall season. The bags hit Dooney & Bourke retail boutiques this September They will also be available at department stores such as Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor, Macy’s, and Nordstrom, Dillard’s and online at www.dooney.com.
For 30 years, Dooney & Bourke has built their reputation as a leader in the accessories market with their commitment to superior materials, expert craftsmanship, and classic styling.
Press Contact: ATELIER Creative Services, Inc. 212.247.9299 x16 or Jessica@atelierpr.com
Fashion Week Tampa Bay epitomizes the fashion scene in the Bay area with an annual event that celebrates the style that is uniquely Tampa Bay’s very own. This event brings talented fashion and accessories designers to the Bay area to showcase their work for local, regional and national retail buyers, boutique owners and consumers. On September 23, 2009, a VIP soiree took place at the beautiful Sheraton Riverwalk to kick off Tampa Bay Fashion Week and Freeway Fashion was there to meet with the talented designers and mingle with the stylish guests. Freeway Fashion's August Featured Diva, Tammy Levent, of Elite Travel was our local celebrity co-host and roving reporter for the night. Watch the clip below to see highlights from the evening!
A big thank you to Reality Edit for the fabulous production!
Something I hear frequently when working with a new client is, "I can't wear (fill in a color here) because it looks horrible on my skin tone!" After hearing this complaint, I generally like to ask the person, "And what exactly do you think your skin tone is?" Answers range from, "Oh, it's sort of pinkish" to "I think it's sort of greenish-yellowish."
Ok, let's get this straight right now. There's no such thing as having an "ish" in your skin tone. Is that understood? No ish. It's either warm or it's cool. Everyone has a dominant color in their skin that is either a cool color (blue tones) or a warm one (golden tones). Period. Cool and warm tones can also be found in eye and hair. A complete color analysis with a Fashion or Image Consultant will help to identify what your tones are. Ahem, I know a good one you can hire.
(That was called a shameless plug, by the way.)
In addition to understanding your own color palette, something interesting to know are the psychological effects behind the choice of color in your clothing. Yes, color has a psychological impact on the person viewing it - especially in the business world, but this also applies in casual dress as well. Some meanings behind their colors are:
Red: Commands power and energy. If you are nervous about a presentation or interview, select red and you will be surprised at how this color will ward off your shyness.
Yellow: Conveys youthfulness. It is also a trustworthy color so if you're selling something, think about wearing this color to close the deal!
Green: Radiates calmness and harmony. If you know you may be in a stressful environment, choose a shade of green for the day. Be careful though, this is one of those colors that you must have the right skin tone or you risk looking drab.
Blue: Expresses serenity and peace. A man should consider light blue for a first date and navy blue for a first business meeting. Blue also looks great on camera.
Purple: Energy and creativity. Artistic types generally love purple. A great color to wear to social gatherings.
Pink: Although a feminine color, also looks great on men. Not a good color selection for big presentations or if you want to feel powerful.
Brown: Comfortable and practical. Brown is acceptable any time and any day of the year. It is a safe color for just about every skin tone.
Black: Slimming. Always safe. Wear it. Enough said.
When in doubt, just wear white - the absence of all color. Just like President Obama's white bow tie and tuxedo with a notch collar. Oh, but that's another topic for another time! Obviously, there are many more colors as well as other factors to consider in additon to skin tones and color meanings, but if you truly want to look fabulous, then a full color analysis can be a very valuable tool in helping you do this. Wardrobe, accessory and makeup coordination flows a little bit easier when you understand your own color palette.
I know, I know, so much to learn and remember. Skin color! Hair color! Eye color! Clothing color! All in the name of fashion though. So, it's worth it. Plus, that's why I'm here to help. Contact me if you are interested in scheduling a consultation for your complete color analysis. I also offer long distance color analysis. To learn more about these services send an email to laura@freewayfashion.com.
70% of Women in the U.S. Wear the Wrong Bra Size! Are you one of them? Are you wearing the right size?
Almost 8 in 10 women are wearing the wrong size- you may be one of them. Why? Your body changes over time, and your fit will change year to year as you lose or gain weight, exercise more or less, and so on. If you are experiencing discomfort, spillage over your cups or back strap, tight straps, or a gap between your cups, you are most likely wearing the wrong size.
Measuring yourself for a bra is an art, not a science.
Our fit guide can provide you with a good starting point. If you're not sure what size you wear, or fall between two sizes, you may want to try several sizes and styles as a starting point.
Getting Started
It's best to measure when you are wearing your most comfortable bra - one that has no padding and is not a minimizer.
STEP 1: BAND SIZE
Measure under your arms, high on your back, across the top of your chest. If this measurement is an even number, this is your band size. If an odd number, add 1" to determine your band size.
STEP 2: CUP SIZE
Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust. Next, subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement; each inch represents a cup size. For example: if your band measurement is 34" and your bust measurement is 36", the difference between these measurements is two inches, and you'd wear a B-cup.
HELPFUL HINTS
Try these tips and tests to see if your bra is flattering you as best it should.
Place yourself in your bra
Now that you've found your size, test your fit. Take the opposite hand from the side you are adjusting and gently bring the breast tissue from the back to the front. This movement will help you settle your breasts correctly into the cups.
It should feel good
A great fitting bra shouldn't dig, pull, poke or otherwise cause discomfort. If it does, it's not the right bra (or size) for you. Make sure it feels comfortable when you sit down and move around.
It should look good!
Always try your bras on wearing a t-shirt – it's the best way to see what it's doing for you. A great fitting bra can make you look taller, will define your waist, and even make you look slimmer!
Don't settle for wrinkles
If you see extra fabric or wrinkly, baggy cups, the cup size is too big. Try sizing down.
Don't fall out
Take a look at the front of the bra. There shouldn't be any breast tissue spillage, puddling, or falling out of the bottom of the cups. If there is, your cup size is too small. Try sizing up for a flattering, more natural looking fit.
Straps shouldn't work too hard
Your bra's support comes from the band, not the straps. So be sure that you're wearing the correct band size. Too big, and your straps will end up taking the weight, which will cause them to put pressure on your shoulders and dig in.
Is your band straight?
Look in the mirror from the side. Your band should be at the same level all the way around. If it is riding up in back, it's probably too big. Try sizing down a band size or tightening your band.
Mind the gap
The center front of your bra should lie flat against the breastbone. It should not lie on top of any breast tissue. If there's a large gap, you may need to go up a cup size.
How tight is right?
Your band should feel firm and secure, but you should also be able to slip two fingers beneath the band in back, and one in the center in front. If you can't, you may need to loosen your band a bit, or go up a size.
Underwires shouldn't dig
Underwires should lie flat at the front of your bra, against your ribcage. If you feel your underwire digging into any breast tissue, you should try a larger cup size or a different style.
Bras stretch over time
Be sure you're wearing your bra on the loosest hook. Your bras can stretch with washing and wear, so when you buy a new bra, it's best to ensure it fits properly on a loose hook, so you can tighten it as needed.
How to know when you've found a perfect fit?
Your breasts will feel like they are "sitting" in the cups, you will not feel any underwire pinching and your bra will feel comfortable and supportive. You shouldn't have to settle for a so-so fit. Sometimes you will have to go up a cup size or two. Don't let it concern you – sizes do vary among brands. Finding the perfect bra takes time and patience, but the way you will look (and feel) once you have found it will be worth all of your effort.
Reminder
Check back in six months or so. You should re-evaluate your bras regularly to be sure they are fitting you the way they should – because a woman's body does change over time, and bras stretch and lose shape with repeated wear and washing. It may be time to stock-up again, soon!
Source: Freeway Fashion Affiliate Partner, Bare Necessities.
I have a confession to make. I sometimes wonder if God is a woman. Furthermore, I often think God was born a French fashion designer in 1883 and died in 1971. The God I'm speaking of is the one. The only. Coco Chanel. Born Gabrielle Bonheur.
Ladies, without this woman, we would not have the "Little Black Dress." Hereafter referred to as the LBD. Ok, maybe we would, but not in the way she popularized it. I don't think I love the LBD for all the same reasons most women do though. Because it's slimming, easy to dress up or down, you don't have to think about it, etc., etc. Which all of those are, indeed, true of the LBD. But those are not the reasons I love the LBD (not to mention, own quite a few).
Oh no, I love the LBD because Chanel shocked the world when she came out with it. The very first LBD designed by Chanel in 1926 was strapless, backless and more than a little risque for that era. Her design completely shocked the general public at large and I love, love, love this fact! The Chanel LBD quickly became a fashion sensation and even premiered in the third ever edition of Playboy. This definitely added controversy and intrigue to the (already seen as controversial) icon, Chanel. What a woman! In fact, her influence on haute couture was such that she was the only person in the field of fashion to be named in TIME Magazine's 100 most influential people of the 20th century! As a "rule of fashion" every woman should own a LBD. No exceptions. That is something that will never, ever change no matter how fashions fade, disappear and are ever-evolving. The Little Black Dress will always be a staple in every woman's closet and we really can't say that about many fashion pieces.
Cocktail RING, that is. I'm going to let all of you in on a "not so secret" today. Are you ready? One of the most important keys to dressing stylishly, will certainly make or break an outfit and what so many women forget to do - or do well anyway, is (drum roll, please) ACCESSORIZE!
That's right. Accessorizing. As I meet with more and more clients and review their wardrobes, I am recognizing this area as being one many have a difficult time with. It is one of my specialties and an area I absolutely love! Perhaps it goes back to the day when I was able to pull Barbie's little plastic pink ball earrings out and replace the giant holes on the sides of her head with a pair of 2-tiered plastic drop pearl earrings. (Do any of you Divas out there remember that?) And then Mattel got really genius and came out with the assortment of cocktail rings for Barbie. I kept all of them in a plastic, Tupperware container with an airtight lid; as not to lose a single one. I realized then how naked Barbie would feel without completing her look with a colossal ring! (Or it could have been the big hole in her finger that bugged me?) Anyway, that must have been the platform that began my love affair with gigantic rings. The focus of today's article.
Yes, cocktail rings. Every woman should own one, or two or twenty. Divas, you honestly don't want to know how many of these I have collected throughout the years. I am not necessarily talking about the expensive diamond cocktail rings found at Tiffany's or a Silhouette Tacori ring. (Although, who wouldn't want one or two of those, right?) You can pick up gorgeous cocktail rings in so many places now at such affordable prices. Every department store has them and you can even order them online. One of Freeway Fashion's affiliate partners, Tobi, carries a gorgeous gold Allison Daniel floral vintage ring for $84. See photo to the right. You can even buy nice cocktail rings for as little as $19.99 at small boutiques.
Slipping on a beautiful large cocktail ring makes such a statement about your Divaness; especially if your outfit is understated and simple. A sizeable cocktail ring will immediately help to exude exotic opulence and transform your entire look. Go out and grab an US Weekly or pick up a Style magazine, you will see all over the red carpet, celebrities donning massive rings. Although, I can't say I always agree with the way their stylists have paired their magnanimous cocktail rings with other gaudy pieces of accessories. I digress. A style rant for another time!
Be sure and remember not to overdo your look by accessorizing too much. My rule is, if the ring is exceptionally large it will be the focal point of your outfit and you should only go with earrings and not a necklace. Although, there are times a necklace is necessary depending on the cut of your neckline. In this case, small subtle earrings should be your choice. Have I confused you? I know, I know. So much to think about! Well, that's why I'm here. Send an email to laura@freewayfashion.com for your simple style questions or to schedule a one on one consultation with me. Cocktails will be on me. The liquid kind, naturally. Then I will teach you how to select the ones for your hand. Happy Cocktail Hour, Divas!
At Freeway Fashion, we are very well aware of the many variations and meanings of the word DIVA. Originally used to describe a female opera singer, the word Diva has transcended into becoming the definition of a successful, adored, talented, beautiful (oftentimes demanding), stylish female icon. I now introduce you to Tammy Levent, President of Elite Travel, renowned business woman, public speaker, mentor, and wedding guru to the stars. And, that's just to name a few of her endless titles! A photo of Tammy's birthday cake to the right. Be still my beating heart. Yes, that really is a high heeled shoe cake. (Hint, friends: my birthday is in December!) A shoe for a cake. Brilliant! The epitome of delightful Diva decadence, don't you think? Need I say more? Ok, I must. Keep reading to find out why Tammy is our featured Diva. I demand it. (Hey, don't forget, I'm a Diva too!)
We hear of people throwing grandeur birthday parties for themselves all the time, don't we? Of course we do. Celebrating your birthday with a party is a normal course of action and a ritual most of us have become accustomed to since childhood. Pretty hats, confetti, balloons, cake, friends, family and for at least one day, everything is about you. What's there not to like? Birthday parties are just spectacular! Now, take a moment and imagine taking this very special day of yours and creating a celebration that actually benefits others. This is exactly what our featured Diva successfully did and pulled it off oh so fabulously.
On Friday, July 31st, Saks Fifth Avenue located at Westshore Mall in Tampa, Florida was transformed into a magnificent setting for the perfect Diva-style VIP Birthday Bash; a doorway into paradise, savings and philanthropy all in one. Tammy partnered with local Tampa businesses and put together not only an absolutely fabulous birthday celebration, but simultaneously made it a charitable event for the community. All proceeds from ticket sales along with a percentage of retail sales benefited Joshua House of Tampa Bay. Guests received 15% off of all Saks Fifth Avenue purchases and exclusive one time only discounts were given that evening by participating vendors.
Superbly dressed party goers enjoyed delicious cuisines by Roy's and Top Shelf Catering as well as the oh so cool new martini specially created for Tammy, appropriately named the Tammytini. I enjoyed a couple of those myself! Three words: To die for! An ice sculpture of Tammy with V6 Vodka running throughout the Diva's transparent icy body was an intricate detail not to miss. It certainly gave solid meaning to the term Ice Queen! With such an extraordinary setting, piano music, beautiful singing, marvelous food, drinks, an astonishing cake mixed with the wonderfully dressed guests, one might think they just walked into a castle filled with royalty. Oh, but wait, that feeling might have come from the fact that there WAS Royalty attending the party that evening. Yes, believe it! I wouldn't dare make this up. His Highness Mario-Max, Prince Schaumburg-Lippe of Austria was in town to debut his new fashion line, By Appointment to HH and right before jet-setting to his next destination, made the time to stop in for the cause and have a Tammytini with the birthday girl as well. The story just keeps getting better, doesn't it? A high heeled shoe cake, personalized martini and a Prince. How many people can say they get those things on their birthday? All the while raising money for a wonderful cause? Not very many, I can assure you.
A Tammytini in one hand and a dazzling customized crystal encrusted whip in the other (I hear she collects these), the gorgeous social butterfly of a birthday girl dressed in a beautiful, red, floor-length sparkling dress graciously sauntered about greeting guests, laughing, enjoying the evening with a million dollar smile on her face the entire time. She even gave Freeway Fashion an interview amidst her evident popularity and lines of people waiting to say hello or wish her a happy birthday. One of the most fun interviews I have ever been a part of, I must admit! Maybe it was the whip? Ok, ok, it was the V6 Vodka shot from the TammySculpture I was coerced into having on camera with Tammy and in front of gazing guests. Hey, the woman is convincing!
Having now read the description of this splendid charitable birthday gala, refer back to my opening paragraph and you will clearly understand why Tammy Levent is Diva Drive's Featured Diva.
Every now and then a person or occasion will inspire me to create a new word for my own "fashionistique" vocabulary and this outstanding event and unbelievably inspiring woman named Tammy Levent has given me a new word to add: DIVATUDE. She's got it.
Happy birthday, Tammy, from the crew at Freeway Fashion and a BIG THANK YOU to you and all of the giving sponsors and local businesses who participated in this grand event for such a wonderful cause!Hopefully, this will inspire others to do the same. Learn more about JOSHUA HOUSE, a safe haven for abused, abandoned and neglected children. Please reach out and lend a hand if you can!
One of my favorite shows during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2010 was L*Space by Monica Wise. So much energy from the models and the suits were fun and flirty. Beach time to play time was the message and this was evident in the music choices such as Bob Marley, "Could You Be Loved" and a surprise closing with African drummers! This is just a sneak peek of one of the runway shows captured by Freeway Fashion during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2010. More exciting runway shows and backstage interviews to be posted on the new Freeway Fashion website...launching soon! Stay tuned.
Miami, Fla. (July 20, 2009) – Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, produced by IMG Fashion, made its biggest splash ever as it concluded its 5th and largest showing of Resort and Swimwear Runway shows at Miami Beach’s Raleigh Hotel. Press, buyers and celebrities from around the globe previewed, photographed, reviewed and applauded the 2010 Collections.
The week began with Bohéme Boutiques’ poolside presentation and the official kick-off party. Over 12,000 attendees enjoyed the five days of shows from Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim newcomers Caffé Swimwear, Marysia Swim, Crystal Jin, Aqua Di Lara, Mercedes-Benz Presents Designer: L*Space by Monica Wise, Tori Praver Swimwear, Mara Hoffman, White Sands Australia, Vitamin A and V Del Sol. Returning designers included Tibi, Red Carter, Cia.Marítima, Xtra Life LYCRA®, Luli Fama, Ed Hardy Swimwear, Poko Pano, True Religion Swimwear and ANK by Mirla Sabino.
This seasons front row regulars from the world’s leading press, media corporations and retailers, were joined by celebrities Nicole Trunfio (Make Me a Supermodel), Perry Reeves (Entourage), Gilles Marini (Sex and the City), Kelly Killoren Bensimon (Real Housewives of NYC), Adam Greggory (90210), Whitney Port (MTV’s The City), Olivia Palermo (MTV’s The City), Roxy Olin (Brothers & Sisters), Paige Sreenan, Ariel Stein, Anchal Joseph (America’s Next Top Model), Dina Manzo (Real Housewives of NJ), Jason Kennedy (E!), Catt Sadler (E!), Bravo’s Miami Social Cast Members, Jeff Donovan (Burn Notice), Jessica Rivera (Former Miss Latina Central Florida), Brooklyn Decker (Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model), Gretta Monahan, Jagged Edge, among others!
“Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim has become the industry's premier platform to showcase Resort & Swimwear collections from around the world,” said Christina Neault, Sr. Director of Fashion & Brands at IMG Fashion. “We are so proud of all of our designers who participated this week with glamorous, sexy and saleable collections. They have made this our largest and most successful event yet.”
“The success of this season's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim provided the perfect backdrop to showcase our newest vehicles," said Lisa Holladay, Brand Experience Marketing Manager at Mercedes-BenzUSA. "The event draws a diverse group of people within the fashion community and beyond and it was great to see them embrace the design and styling of the all new E-Class sedan and coupe."
This season’s Mercedes-Benz Presents Designer, L*Space by Monica Wise, raised awareness for OmniPeace, through a special capsule collection shown as part of her runway show on Friday, July 17. The collection was created by L*Space to benefit OmniPeace, a humanitarian fashion brand. Connecting with the vibrant looks seen on the runway, the Mercedes-Benz Star Lounge in the historic Raleigh Hotel was the result of collaboration with Eric Villency, President and CEO of Maurice Villency. The design embraced Art Deco motifs and utilized splashes of rich purples and oranges inspired by the natural light and color palettes of South Beach. During the week, the Star Lounge was the destination for celebrities, VIP’s, press and Mercedes-Benz customer guests. Beyond the Star Lounge and the runways, three of the newest editions in Mercedes-Benz’s own collection were presented, the 2010 E350 Coupe and the E350 Sedan in front of the main tent and on display poolside for the first time in South Florida, the 2010 E63 AMG.
This season Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim also introduced its first interactive application. Now, fashion afficionados who couldn't be poolside or at the runway can get their front row access to the hottest swimwear shows directly on their iPhone or iPod touch. The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim application is available now for just $0.99 in Apple’s App Store,and features demand video highlights and photographs from each of the designer shows and presentations.
Mercedes-Benz, the event’s title sponsor, was joined by American Express, DHL, LYCRA®, MAKE UP FOR EVER, The Raleigh, Conair, Bain de Soleil®, Continental Airlines Inc., Peroni, Chambord, smartwater, Ocean Drive Magazine, Miami.com, California Apparel News Waterwear and Getty Images.
Photos by Getty Images, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week's official photographer.
South Beach is sizzling this week and it's not just the scorching sun making things hot down here. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2010 officially kicked off last night at the Raleigh Hotel with a poolside show by Bohéme Boutiques followed by an after party, followed by an after party, followed by an after party! I mean, it IS Miami.
In typical Fashion Week sense, the runway show began about 30 minutes late. Although that was probably due, of course, to the guests being fashionably late. Completely warranted for an exciting invitation-only fashion event, wouldn't you say? Once the superbly considered sanctuary that is the lush back yard of the beautiful Art Deco grandeur hotel filled with guests in their stylish summer dresses, carefully selected shoes and cool hairstyles, the music was cranked to a nice volume and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2010 began.
Bohéme Boutiques was the first boutique ever to present during this event. They presented about 100 looks while guests cooled themselves off with fruity, colorful cocktails. On the shallow edge of the pool, turned runway, models sashayed in ankle deep water donning designer sexy swimwear, cover ups and accessories. Looks were from Kenzo, Pinup, Delfina, Anna Kosturova, Sundek (men’s) with accessories by Flora Bella and Moyna, just to name a few.
With so many looks, it was certainly a little overwhelming and I cannot say I was a huge fan of the pool-turned runway at all. Some of the models appeared to have a difficult time trudging through the water in their usual catwalk manner and that became just a bit distracting. Even with that minor distraction though, the overall show was enjoyable and the looks presented were certainly in line with Bohéme Boutiques goal of offering everything Bohemian Chic. Elegant and simple.
Now that Fashion Week Swim has officially began, the temperatures are only going to rise even higher as more designers and models arrive into the city for four more days of sexy swimwear! This evening we have Tibi, Caffé Swimwear and Marysia Swim. Check back in for reviews on those shows and more throughout this exciting and hot Miami week!
Below is a rough cut video of our arrival into Miami. More raw footage videos will be posted throughout the week. Stay tuned as Freeway Fashion's new site should be launching by the end of this week and interviews with designers, models and industry insiders will be posted then. Thank you for watching!
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim is presented annually in Miami Beach, Florida at The Raleigh Hotel. Coinciding with the swimwear industry's largest trade show, the invitation only event provides a runway platform for designers' swimwear and resort collections with exposure to national and international media, style setters and fashionistas. Fashion, beauty, supermodels and celebrities come together in South Beach to celebrate the sexiest swimwear designs in the world.
Freeway Fashion will be covering shows and events all week!
During Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week last September, I noticed jumpsuit after jumpsuit sashaying down the runways. Initially, I wasn't sure if this was a style trend I favored at all but eventually, it has actually become a look I adore and can't get enough of! In fact, according to the newly relaunched House of Style, jumpsuits are the number one trend for Summer 2009.
Designers have gotten very creative with reinventing this all-in-one look. I tried on a black, slinky one with spaghetti straps, wide legs and built-in belt that was very reminiscent of sexy 1970's Donna Summer. Perfect for dinner and dancing! I also found a Stella McCartney ruffled Rihanna style jumpsuit that looks great with an over-sized pair of hoop earrings and gold sandals. Juicy Couture offers an ultra soft jumpsuit/romper with drawstring waist for a more casual look; adorable with espadrilles.
Jumpsuits are comfortable for daytime wear, but can also easily transform into a spectacular night time look. Whether you have on a shorts jumpsuit or long wide-leg style, just pair with large dangle earrings, a wide cuff bracelet, exchange your flats from some high heels and you are in business!
Don't worry if you are on the fence about this summer trend as it is certainly an acquired style taste and I honestly feel the look is going to carry-over into the rest of this year. Trust me, once you get out there and begin shopping around for one, you will quickly embrace this hot look. There are many styles of jumpsuits to choose from so shop around a bit until you find the most flattering style of jumpsuit for your body type. If you need help selecting one that suits you perfectly, send me an email and I will be happy to provide some tips. Jumpsuits displayed in this article are from Tobi. (Top left is a design by Black Halo. Bottom right is by Splendid). Tobi is a Freeway Fashion Affiliate Partner.
Laura Hunt is Founder of Freeway Fashion, a fashion and image consulting agency and an online fashion media resource. She works as a fashion stylist and image consultant as well as a reporter; traveling to various Fashion Weeks to preview upcoming trends, meet with and interview designers and industry insiders and then provide reviews on upcoming styles.
Diva Drive is Freeway Fashion's News Blog and will include Laura's fashion advice, video interviews, trends, style finds, her general opinion of fashions as well as fashion forecasts and updates. Guest writers will also be contributing articles to Diva Drive.
Laura studied Fashion Merchandising & Design at the Southwest Art Institute of Texas. She is also the author of "I'm Just A Girl," a book written to celebrate the intricacies of being a woman.
To schedule a one on one fashion consultation with Laura or to just ask simple style advice, send an email to laura@freewayfashion.com.
THE UGLY
THE UGLY
