Nick Verreos's Blog, page 42
June 15, 2017
NICK APPEARANCES.....The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party: RECAP!
The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party Red Carpet: Gabrielle Carteris, Lorna Luft, Nick Verreos, Bryan Batt and Betty Buckley--Skirball Cultural Center Los Angeles
This past Sunday, I was invited--along with my NIKOLAKI (and life) partner David Paul--to attend a WONDERFUL event: The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards West Coast Viewing Party . I have been fortunate enough to have attended this fabulous event celebrating Broadway and the Tony Awards for many years. One of my best friends-for-life Louie Anchondo, is the Special Events Director for The Actors Fund and has shared with me all the amazing work that the organization does for the creative community/world.
Celebrating Broadway...and the INCOMPARABLE Betty Buckley--Invitation to The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards West Coast Viewing Party
The Actors Fund is a national human services that helps all professionals in performing arts and entertainment; they are a safety net, providing programs and services for those who are in need, crisis or transition. The 2017 edition of their Tony Awards Viewing Party was a big success, highlighted with the homage to the amazing Betty Buckley, who was honored with the Julie Harris Award for Artistic Achievement. In addition, one of the most exciting parts of the event is their Silent Auction which this year, did not disappoint. One of the item which I bid on but unfortunately lost--to a fevered last-minute bidding war (tickets to see "Carmen" Opera at the LA Opera!)--but oh well, David and I have several signed Theater Poster/Window Cards including one from Carol Channing to keep us happy until the next Silent Auction!
Here are some photos from the night:
Nick Verreos--On the red carpet of "The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party", Skirball Cultural Center
Photo courtesy of Nina Prommel and The Actors Fund
Host of "The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party", actor Bryan Batt with Broadway and TV/film icon Betty Buckley and honoree of the Julie Harris Award for Lifetime Achievement
"Crazy Ex Girlfriend" star, actress Gabrielle Ruiz--On the red carpet of "The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party", Skirball Cultural Center
Disney XD "Crash & Bernstein" star, actress Landry Bender--On the red carpet of "The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party", Skirball Cultural Center
Sitting Pretty: The amazing Betty Buckley--The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards Viewing Party, Skirball Cultural Center
Photo courtesy of The Actors Fund Facebook
Stage, film and TV actress and singer ICON Betty Buckley giving her acceptance speech after receiving the Julie Harris Award for Artistic Achievement--The Actors Fund 21st Annual West Coast Tony Awards Viewing Party, Skirball Cultural Center
Broadway Boys: Louie Anchondo, Special Events Director for The Actors Fund (L), Nick Verreos, David Paul (R)-- The Actors Fund 21st Annual West Coast Tony Awards Viewing Party, Skirball Cultural Center
Coffee Mug and Dessert--The Actors Fund 21st Annual Tony Awards West Coast Viewing Party, Skirball Cultural Center
Until Next Year! Happy Tony Awards!!
To DONATE to The Actors Fund, Click HERE!
June 13, 2017
FASHION SCHOOL WITH NICK.....NEW VIDEO! Draping Without a Dress Form: Slash and Spread Method!
Draped Slash & Spread: Nick Verreos "How to Drape Without a Dress Form Without a Dress Form: Slash & Spread" Video--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Channel
In my NEWEST "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube Video --I'm very excited to show How to Drape a Side Gathered Dress...WITHOUT a Dress Form . While I was in fashion school, I was taught this Slash & Spread Method of pattern-making but shown only examples using basic designs and never a dress like this!
Side Draped Fab: Nick Verreos "How to Drape Without a Dress Form Without a Dress Form: Slash & spread" Video--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Channel
Slash & Spread Fashion Class: Nick Verreos "How to Drape Without a Dress Form Without a Dress Form: Slash & spread" Video--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Channel
So...using the Slash & Spread method, I show how to create the pattern/drape of a one shoulder side-gathered dress...without the use of a dress form. I hope you enjoy!
Click below to watch "How To Drape Without a Dress Form: Slash & Spread" Video:
June 12, 2017
FASHION SCHOOL WITH NICK.....NEW VIDEO: Draping a One Shoulder Pleated Bustier
From Muslin Drape to Gown: Nick Verreos "How To Drape a One Shoulder Pleated Bodice" Video, "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube Channel
In my one of my latest (and already quite popular!) "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube video, I show you guys a tutorial on How to Drape a One-shoulder Pleated Bodice using one of my NIKOLAKI gowns as an example!
Nick Verreos and his NIKOLAKI gown--NIKOLAKI design studio, Downtown Los Angeles Arts District
The gown I am using is a one shoulder design in a raspberry colored silk satin organza (photo above). I thought it would be fun to show an "Advanced Draping" lesson and give a tutorial on how to drape the top section of the gown:
Drape, Pleat and Smooth--Nick Verreos showing you how to drape a one shoulder pleated bodice--"Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube Channel
Click below to watch "How To Drape a One-Shoulder Pleated Bodice" Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Video:
May 30, 2017
WHO WORE WHAT?.....Cannes Film Festival: Closing Ceremony Red Carpet
Fringed Uma: Actress Uma Thurman arriving at Sunday's Cennes 2017 Film Festival Closing Ceremony, Cannes France
This past Sunday was the Closing Ceremony for the 70th Annual Cannes Film Festival. Cannes 2017 was full of lots of film premieres and fabulous red carpet moments which I covered HERE and HERE. Now, it was time for the Grand Finale of Cannes 2017 when the Jury gave out the coveted Palme d'Or as well as other top awards, including the Grand Prix, the Best Actor and Best Actress as well as many others. And it was also time for one final Cannes Red Carpet...at least for this year. Let's take a look at Who Wore What...at Cannes 2017 Closing Ceremony:
Uma Thurman in Custom Atelier Versace: The see-through "Naked Dress" is quite popular these days on the red carpet so it was not a shocker to see one on the very fit and statuesque Uma Thurman. Uma--who was the President of the Jury for "Un Certain Regard" selection of films at Cannes 2017--was giving her best Cher/Bob Mackie-like moment (even with the straight center-parted hair!) in this shimmering gold sequined gown filled with thousands of gold sequins draped over her body on a nude based gown. The "stars" of the gown were the shimmying gold beaded fringe that really made for an impacting entrance and red carpet walk into the Cannes 2017 Closing Ceremony. I thought she looked quite spectacular. What was not spectacular were all the fallen gold beads that trailed her as she walked the red carpet...
This is a hand-sewn Atelier Versace gown, after all, so we know EVERY SINGLE ONE of those beads was sewn by hand so I am sure they were all, literally, hanging by a thread. As a designer I have been there, receiving one of my cherished sequined gowns back after a big red carpet event, and to my dismay, seeing how 1/4 of the beads ended up on the (red carpet) floor. I'm sure no one cared at Versace; it's just another day on the "Couture Carpet".
Fan Bingbing in Atelier Versace Spring 2017: Another Atelier Versace Diva was the Chinese actress, fashion muse--and Cannes 2017 Jury member--Fan Bingbing, who decided to wear one of Donatella's Haute Couture designs for the Cannes 2017 Closing Ceremony. Bingbing wore this blue-gray tulle gown from Atelier Versace Spring/Summer 2017 collection.
Fan Bingbing in Atelier Versace Spring 2017
The gown followed in the "Naked Dress" trend with see-through details juxtaposed with Swarovski crystal-encrusted boning that was strategically hand-sewn throughout the gown, forming a mermaid-like caged silhouette at the bottom...all covered in silk tulle with fan accents. That last part was kind of fabulous: Fan Bingbing wore a gown...with FAN accents!
Jessica Chastain in Zuhair Murad Spring 2017 Couture: Cannes 2017 Jury member Jessica Chastain went 1940's Old Hollywood Glamour in this ivory silk gown from Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017. The gown featured a sweetheart neckline, sharp cap sleeves, and side pleated cascade folds. Originally, when the style was shown on the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week runway (back in January), it was in black (or more like a "midnight blue").
Jessica Chastain in Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017
But for Chastain, it was customized and changed to the white color, which I do think was a wise choice, especially for the porcelain skinned/red haired actress. While the color was changed, the red sequins remained. I thought she looked beautiful (the lipstick color matched the red sequins PERFECTLY!) and I especially loved the open back of the gown and dramatic back overskirt/fall.
Diane Kruger in custom Jonathan Simkhai: Cannes 2017 Best Actress winner Diane Kruger, wore a black gown from U.S. designer Jonathan Simkhai. The gown featured a strapless-like silhouette with fitted bust cups, a fit-to-flare gown silhouette and billowy "Renaissance"-like off-the-shoulder sleeves. While it wasn't so much of a "Fashion" statement (in the likes of the Fan Bingbing's or Aiswarya Rai Bachchan's), it was on par with what "Best Actress" nominees have been doing lately at previous top awards shows...keeping it safe and not too Fashion With a Capital "F" (much to my disappointment).
Peasant Sleeve Boy: Jonathan Simkhai Fall 2017
In case you might be wondering who designer Jonathan Simkhai is (not a red carpet "household" designer name, although he's dressed MANY celebs), he began his design line in 2010 and in 2015, he was the winner of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. And he's known for those off-the-shoulder Boho/Peasant Gal-meets-Renaissance sleeve details. It's kind of his "thang". Or at least, it should be now!
Monica Bellucci in Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Spring 2017: The Cannes 2017 Closing Ceremony host, Italian actress Monica Bellucci wore a black gown from Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Spring/Summer 2017. The Opera-inspired collection was shown in Milan back in January and is the Haute Couture arm of the Italian fashion brand. In other words, these are Made-to-Order designs, one-of-a-kind (unless several clients order it!), and prices begin at about $50,000 per dress and go up and up and up.
Elizabethan Bellucci: Mistress of the 2017 Cannes Closing Ceremony, Monica Bellucci in cut velvet hand-made Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Spring/Summer 2017
Monica's black handsewn cut velvet-and-sequins gown--as it was originally shown on the runway--was Tea-length and featured puffy sleeves...and yes, that Elizabethan ruff collar. For Monica, it was changed--the puffy sleeves were gone, and the length was made longer by adding a black lace tulle layer with gathered tulle crinoline under-petticoat, to exaggerate the Mermaid-like shape. La Diva Bellucci always looks great in black and figure-hugging shapes. And it was an Italian "Double-Double" to have her wear Dolce & Gabbana for this prime hosting gig.
Finally, I wanted to add French actress Eva Green--even though this wasn't from the Cannes 2017 Closing Ceremony...but she looked so chic and the dress was interesting enough to mention it here:
Eva Green at the "Based on a True Story" Cannes 2017 Film Premiere in Alexander McQueen Spring 2017: Eva Green wore this intricate silver sequins and black and silver lace gown from Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2017 "Celtic"-inspired collection. Following on the Red Carpet Gown Trend of the "Naked Dress", the design featured the HOT HOT HOT see-through look, with an under-corselette featuring black boning, very elaborate--and exquisite--sequined applique over nude tulle work and puffy sleeves (with gathered tulle inside of it to "puff" the cap)...
Details of Eva Green's Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2017 gown--Cannes 2017
This is THE NEXT LEVEL of gowns. Stunning, modern-yet-Edwardian, with nods to the 20's/30's as well, and very red carpet fabulous. A work of gown art.
RUNWAY REPORT.....Gucci Resort 2018: Collection + Video!
Renaissance Ladies: Gucci Resort 2018
WHAT: Gucci Resort 2018. Gucci Creative Director and current "Fashion Boy Wonder", Alessandro Michele showed another fabulous collection for the Italian fashion-and-accessories luxury house of Gucci.
Alessandro Michele of Gucci
Renaissance Inspirations: (Clockwise from the top) Raffaelo's The Madonna della Seggiola, The Palatina Gallery/Pitti Palace, and Simonetta Vespucci
INSPIRATION: The collection, which was shown at the sumptuous Palatina Gallery in the Pitti Palace in Florence Italy, combined elements of the Renaissance-rich locale as well as Michele's usual UBER groovy parade of hipster/vintage/luxe thrift store/60's psychedelic meets 70's Rock & Roll no-fashion-rules mantra. Michele, in fact, dubbed the collection "Renaissance Rock & Roll" and used the beauty of Simonetta Vespucci, Botticelli's muse, as inspiration.
GG Love: Gucci-brnaded maxi tote bags, stockings, dresses--Gucci Resort 2018
SEEN ON THE RUNWAY: Elaborate embroidery, bold Renaissance/Psychedelic prints,vintage looking joggers with turbans, gold leaf head-crowns, pinks, brocades, flora and fauna, wolf-and-lion motifs; maxi Gucci tote bags; LOTS of Gucci logos--on suits, skirts, fur coats and even a "cheeky" take on the counterfeit logo culture with his "Guccy" logo.
Collection Highlights:
Gucci Resort 2018
Gucci Resort 2018
Gucci Resort 2018
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Gucci Resort 2018
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Gucci Resort 2018
Gucci Resort 2018
Gucci Resort 2018
Gucci Resort 2018
Gucci Resort 2018
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Click Video to Watch the Entire Gucci Resort 2018 Runway Collection:
May 26, 2017
WHO WORE WHAT?.....Cannes Film Festival: Days 7-9 Top 10 Best Dressed!
Lace Queen: Actress Charlize Theron in custom Christian Dior Haute Couture at the 70th Anniversary of Cannes Event at 2017 Cannes Film Festival
Cannes isn't over yet...And Thank Goodness for that! I have discussed my Top Ten Favorites of the 2017 Cannes Film Festival Red Carpet Day 1-3 HERE and Days 4-6 HERE and there's been LOTS of fabulous Couture to satisfy fashionistas, fashion watchers, bloggers and flood the Instagram world.
Printed and Sequined: (L to R) Fan Bingbing, Elle Fanning and Praya Lundberg--2017 Cannes Film Festival
I have already said this but it bears repeating, it's been a very Haute Cannes Red Carpet year, definitely solidifying the film festival as one of the most-watched-for "Fashion Shows" on Earth (sorry Oscars but you're standing is probably losing your red carpet fashion grip!). So, now, continuing with my "Who Wore What?" Cannes 2017 Blog, it's now time for my Top Ten Best Dresses of Days 7-9. Let's see who made the Cannes Cut:
Fan Bingbing in Christopher Bu at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere: One of my favorite Fashion Divas of Cannes is actress--and 2017 Cannes Jury Member--Fan Bingbing and she has been ON-POINT throughout her time at the Film Festival. This time, she wore this printed silk gown from her longtime stylist, Chinese designer Christopher Bu. I loved this design because of its bold sequined applique "print" (yes kids, it's all paillettes, crystals and sequins!), sculpted silhouette (very old school Roma Alta Moda). The gown featured an attached "Watteau"-back like cape, turtleneck collar and...
Her diamonds were FABULOUS! That ring and bracelet were BEYOND darlings!
Praya Lundberg in Rami Kadi Couture at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere: Half Swedish, half-Thai actress/model Praya Lundberg (nicknamed "Poo"), was one of my Top 10 Best Dressed from Days 7-9 of Cannes 2017. She wore a beautiful ballgown from Beirut, Lebanon based Lebanese-American designer Rami Kadi and his Rami Kadi Couture collection. The halter neck gown was perfect for Cannes, featuring a navy blue silk base with distinctive hand-sewn encrusted silver paillettes and feathers toward the bottom of the dress. Beautiful, entrance-making and on-point with the Cannes 2017 "Prom Fab" style trend.
Jessica Chastain in Armani Prive at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Armani muse Jessica Chastain wore a GORGEOUS Armani Prive (naturally) custom gown and it was one of my Top 10 faves from Days 7-9. The golden silk satin gown was "inspired" by his latest Haute Couture collection shown in Paris in January...
Armani Prive Spring/Summer 2017
The collection featured lots of that Chinese lacquer-gold coloring as seen in this gown from the collection as seen in one of the photos above. I thought the color was impacting and right for red-haired Chastain. I also thought the fit and shape of her gown was perfect. I loved the simplicity and figure-flattering style. I would have done without the mini-pouf above the train/godet but that would be my only not-so-positive critique.
Fan Bingbing in Valentino Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture at "The Beguiled" Film Premiere: Oh Fan Bingbing...how much do I ADORE you!! Bingbing has been the Cannes Film Festival Fashion "It" girl for years and this time as one of the Jurors, it's really her time to (Fashion) shine! I liked this red sheath of a gown she wore for "The Beguiled" Film Premiere. The gown is from the Valentino Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 collection...
The style- iconic "Valentino Red" seems simple enough but if you know fashion and fashion design, the simplest looks are usually the most difficult to pull off, technically. This red crepe gown is all handmade and features an "over-cape" hiding a sheath gown underneath. Bingbing looked UBER beautiful in this.
Svetlana Khodchenkova custom Alberta Ferretti Limited Spring 2017 at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Russian actress Svetlana Khodchenkova wore one of my other Top 10 Favorite gowns from Cannes 2017 Days 7-9: This gold lame plisse dress from Alberta Ferretti Limited collection; this is from Ferretti's Haute Couture arm of the business. The strapless gown featured dramatic volants cascading down the back of the gown. I thought Svetlana looked very 1930's/40's Old Hollywood Glamour-like. The dress was "inspired" by a black silk velvet version shown on the runway:
Alberta Ferretti Limited Spring/Summer 2017
Jasmine Tookes in Georges Chakra Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture at "The Beguiled" Film Premiere: U.S. model--and Victoria's Secret Angel--Jasmine Tookes looked gorgeous in this gown from Lebanese designer Georges Chakra and his Georges Chakra Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture collection. The lilac-hued crepe gown featured a one shoulder column design with over-the-shoulder draped details and dramatic back overskirt. Simple, elegant, gorgeous.
Izabel Goulart in Zuhair Murad Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere: Another model in my Top Ten Best Dressed of Cannes 2017 Days 7-9 is Brazilian supermodel Izabel Goulart. She wore this gold and nude gown from Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 collection. The fitted dress featured hand-sewn gold sequined applique in a starburst design sewn onto see-through crinoline/organza. It also had a side cascade drape to add a little bit of drama. If you notice, the original runway look had pointed sleeves at the shoulders. This element was wisely removed (or un-pointed!). Izabel is a model so she may already be starting with an advantage (in terms of looking fabulous in Couture) but she did look EXTRA fabulous at Cannes 2017.
Juan Xiopong at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Juan Xiopong was one of my Top 10 faves because she just looked Red Carpet perfect. I have tried to Goggle her and for the life of me (trust me, I have spent HOURS!), I cannot find who she is, where she is from, why she is at Cannes, and most importantly, who did her dress. But...I still think she looked very pretty! I loved this hi-lo gown with pink/fuchsia, silver and light green sequins. The sequin work was exquisite and the finishing of the gown (the hand sewn invisible zipper on the underseam part of her sleeve) was superb! Beautiful gown, beautiful woman and gorgeous RING to top everything off! Let's hope one of my BLOG READERS educates me on who she is--and who did her gown!
Charlize Theron in custom Christian Dior Couture at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Next on my list is the gorgeous Charlize Theron. Charlize attended the 70th Anniversary Celebration at 2017 Cannes Film Festival in this black lace custom Christian Dior Haute Couture gown.
First off, we are starting with CHARLIZE THERON so as a designer, well, it's like "Done & Done!". This gown was very lingerie-like and ultra feminine with its soft, un-structured shape and fabrication. I thought the delicate hand pleated/gathered draping of the silk tulle'd torso was perfection (of course it is; it's HAUTE COUTURE!) and the fit was very flattering. The jewels were...OTHERWORLDLY! I wondered where the Jewel Bodyguards were because that ring--and those bracelets--LORD HAVE MERCY!
Elle Fanning in Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2017 at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Elle Fanning also wore Christian Dior Haute Couture and this was one of my Top Ten looks. I loved this dress when I saw it on the runway and I thought it was a great choice for Fanning...
The gown featured a "festival" of sequined flower petals (all hand sewn!), over a tulle under-crinoline and fitted/boned Dior Corselette. This reminded me of those old-school 1950's Dior gowns and was perfect for the young and sweet Elle Fanning. If she was to wear a $100,000 costing one-of-kind hand made Couture gown, this would be it!
Finally...
Tilda Swinton in Chanel Fall 2017 RTW at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: I don't think I am alone when I exclaim my LOVE for actress Tilda Swinton--both for her acting talent and her fabulous fashion sense. At Cannes 2017, she wore this black sequined jumpsuit from the French house of Chanel which I ended up putting as my last "Best Dressed" in my Top Ten of Cannes 2017 Days 7-9. The look is chic, modern, directional and Oh-So-Tilda! I just wish she would have worn the boots (as seen on the runway). Besides this, she looked like a Couture NASA Pilot of a Mars Space Mission...in 2055!
May 23, 2017
NICK APPEARANCES.....Macy's South Coast Plaza INC "Popsicle" Summer Fashion Event: RECAP!
Popsicle Nick: Nick Verreos--Macy's INC International Concepts Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Macy's South Coast Plaza Costa Mesa California
This past weekend, I hosted an I.N.C. International Concepts and Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event at Macy's South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, Orange County CA. For the last 7+ years, I have had the pleasure of MC'ing and hosting many, many Macy's events through out the continental U.S. and even Puerto Rico, and these are always some of the most fun events to do since it involves several things I love: Fashion, meeting people, discussing fashion and most of all, having lots of fun! And this weekend's event was no different.
Macy's South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa California
The fashion presentation showcased the latest Popsicle® -inspired (Yes--THAT Popsicle!) designs for Summer 2017 from I.N.C. International Concepts , a brand exclusive to Macy's.
Popsicle Style: Nick Verreos with models at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC and Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
The fashion show featured lots of models in colorful, super fun designs--perfect for a Summer bar-b-q, a cruise, holiday/vacation...or a perfect Sunday brunch! We also had a DJ, Popsicle® beverages, a "Balloon Artist", faux tattoos, a Macy's/INC/Popsicle Photo Booth Step & Repeat, and much more! Here is my Photo RECAP of the afternoon with lots of fun pics...
Look Mom, My Name Is On A Big Sign!--Nick Verreos arrives at Macy's South Coast Plaza--Macy's INC and Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
After arriving, I changed into my fabulous I.N.C. International Concepts ensemble (I can say "ensemble" when referring to menswear!), this OH-SO-NICK "Slim Fit Silver Foil" jacket, crisp white dress shirt with small collar and super skinny black pants. The event's stylist Shifteh Shahbazian (LOVE HER!) had picked this out for me and OH MY GAWWWWD was it PERFECT...
Jacket Love: Nick Verreos hosts the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event--Costa Mesa, California
MC Fun: Nick Verreos hosting the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event--Costa Mesa California
Model Fun: Nick Verreos with models Ivana Korab and Amber Lindauer wearing INC International Concepts Popsicle® -inspired looks-- Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
Photo Booth Fun:
(L to R) David Paul, Nick Verreos and Brenda Fuentes--Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
Popsicle Guest: Nick Verreos with guest at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
Model Posin': Nick Verreos and models in INC International Concepts Popsicle® -inspired looks at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
Popsicle Secrets: Nick Verreos and model Ivana Korab sharing "Popsicle" secrets-- Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
That's a Popsicle Fashion Summer Wrap!: Nick Verreos at the Macy's South Coast Plaza INC Popsicle® Summer Fashion Event, Costa Mesa California
May 22, 2017
WHO WORE WHAT?.....Cannes Film Festival: Days 4-6 Top 10 Best Dressed/Best Dresses!
Red Carpet Goddess: Thai-British actress and L'Oreal Paris Ambassador Araya A. Hargate in Alexis Mabille Couture Fall 2014
This year's Cannes Film Festival has been OUT OF CONTROL FABULOUS in terms of the COUTURE that has been on display on the red carpet. I've covered my Top Ten Best Dressed (or Best Dresses!) of Cannes 2017 Day 1-3 which you can read HERE, so now it is time to continue my "Red Carpet Report" and discuss my Top Ten Best Dresses of Cannes 2017 Days 4-6. Lots of $100,000+ costing gowns to discuss. Oh, and on a side note: Why actresses don't look THIS COUTURE FABULOUS at the Academy Awards is beyond me and very, very frustrating but oh well. It seems the red carpet mantra is...Oscars: Safe. Cannes: Go For It!
Gown Divas: (L to R) Araya A. Hargate, Sonam Kapoor and Aishwrya Rai Bachchan--2017 Cannes Film Festival Cannes France
Let's begin with one of the Red Carpet Divas of the Cannes 2017 Festival--Thai-British (and slightly pregnant) actress Araya "Chompoo" A. Hargate. I must admit that I had no idea who she was until this year's Cannes Film Festival--even with her (as of writing this post) 7.2 MILLION Instagram followers! But now, darlings...she is my new favorite STYLE MUSE...
Queen Araya: Araya A. Hargate at "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere--Araya wore this entrance-making gown from French designer Alexis Mabille Couture Fall 2014. This style may be from a 3-year-old collection, however, it is still SO NOW, and SO RED CARPET FAB! The strapless design featured an off-white column gown with a gorgeous lipstick red "puffy" overcape attached in the bust line with volants and Empire-waisted bustier. All that stitching you see on the overcape was done BY HAND. It's Haute Couture after all. Araya sure knows how to make an entrance! Definitely, one of my Best Dressed of Days 4-6 Cannes 2017 Film Festival.
Fuchsia Araya: Leave it to Ms. Hargate to not just have one--but TWO--of my Best Dresses from Days 4-6 Cannes Film Festival 2017. This is another fabulous gown that she wore, this time to the Premiere of "120 Beats Per Minute" (120 Battements Par Minute). This UBER Princess gown is from Zuhair Murad Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture. The gown was EVERYTHING! Araya has learned that if there was ever a moment to wear SUPER HUGE ballgowns...it's Cannes! (Maybe Aishwarya Rai Bachchan taught her this!).
The strapless gown featured an asymmetrically placed front bodice bow and multi layered silk tulle ballgown skirt all sewn by hand. How anyone sits in one of those small velvet movie theater chairs in this $100,000+ costing Couture gown is beyond me. But, she looked beautiful and Red Carpet perfect--at least for Cannes.
Sonam Kapoor in Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 to "The Killing of a Scared Deer" Cannes 2017 Premiere: Bollywood super-actress and L'Oreal Paris Ambassador (naturally!) wore this golden gown from Elie Saab Haute Couture. The gown featured gold and crystal hand-cut lace applique over nude tulle column gown with overskirt with a plunging sweetheart neckline. She looked DIVINE. The gown was the finale "Wedding Gown" look of his most recent Haute Couture collection shown in Paris in January of this year. The gown--as seen on the runway--was a tad bit more "revealing". For Sonam, there were more golden appliques added to cover her up and the sequin work was changed so it didn't look so much like palm trees in a Dubai dessert oasis.
Sonam Kapoor in Custom Elie Saab Couture to "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere: Yes kids, Sonam Kapoor is now TWICE on my Best Dressed of Days 4-6 of Cannes 2017 List. In other words, this Bollywood Diva is SLAYING it! I loved this pink sequined-and-organza-crinoline gown from Elie Saab Haute Couture. The gown had a gorgeous column base dress with a soft silk georgette overskirt. It was belted and she accessorized it with...
FABULOUS jewels including those incredible finger-to-wrist bracelets. Oh, and by the way, did I mention that her gown was CUSTOM?. So, yeah, not just Haute Couture but really, really, really...made JUST FOR HER. For free! (This would be beyond the $100,000 price tag). Kapoor has 10 MILLION Instagram followers so I am guessing the Elie Saab P.R. crew is hoping some of those followers might buy an Elie Saab perfume or pair of sunglasses the next time they're in at Duty Free or a high-end department store! Irregardless, Thank You Sonam for being Two-For-Two in the Fab Cannes Red Carpet Moments!
Andie MacDowell in Roberto Cavalli at "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere: Model/Actress Andie MacDowell looked gorgeous at Cannes in this black and violet gown from Italian fashion brand Roberto Cavalli. The gown was elegant, chic, and sexy! And MacDowell looked AMAZING in it. I loved the shape, the dramatic bow, the draped bodice and side front slit. Andie is almost 60 years old (You GO GIRL!) and seriously, she could teach some of the 20-year-old's a lesson in red carpet fabulousness!
Aishwarya Rai in Ralph & Russo Spring/Summer 2017 Couture at the "120 Beats Per Minute" Cannes 2017 Premiere: Oh yes...everyone bow down to Queen Aishwarya. I love that she basically has showed up to this year's Cannes Film Festival to show everyone in the world why she was crowned Miss World many, many years ago. This gorgeous actress/model/Bollywood Diva has still got it (not that anyone thought she lost it!). I loved this strapless red ballgown (Aishwarya loves a ballgown!) from Ralph & Russo S/S 2017 Couture collection.
The original style--as seen on the catwalk--featured a less-structured bustier (mainly because it was for the super teeny 32" bust measuring model!), and for Rai Bachchan, the bustier was constructed with a little more, shall we say, support. I thought Aishwarya looked like a Red Carpet Goddess...in Red! One of these days, she just needs to bring out that "Miss World" crown and just wear it on the red carpet. It would make A LOT of gays very, very happy! (i.e.: Me!).
Eva Longoria Marchesa Pre-Fall 2017 at "The Killing of a Scared Deer" Cannes 2017 Premiere: Miss Eva gave you some Cannes Red Carpet Realness in this blush colored sequined-and-applique tulle gown from Marchesa Pre-Fall 2017. This is such a beautiful gown, a beautiful 30's-like silhouette, but updated with the nude/blush coloring. I especially loved the capelet detail of the gown and her styling was perfection. Muy bella Eva!
Lana El Sahely in Ralph & Russo Couture Fall/Winter 2016 at "The Killing of a Scared Deer" Cannes 2017 Premiere: Freelance stylist and founder of LArmoireDeLana Blog, Lana El Sahely wound up wearing one of my Top Ten Best Dresses from Cannes 2017 Days 4-6. I have no idea who she is but she was important enough to get a free Ralph & Russo Couture gown--at least for a night. And it looked gorgeous! The style featured white silk crepe gown with pale blue silk organza overskirt hand appliqued with ruffles and embellished with China blue silk thread-work, crystals and glass bead embroidery.
Barbara Meier in Alexis Mabille Spring 2017 Couture at "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere: German fashion model and actress--best known as the winner of the 2nd cycle of Germany's Next Top Model--wore one of my Top Ten Best Dresses of Cannes 2017 Days 4-6. This royal blue gown was from French designer Alexis Mabille. His Couture creations have been getting some exposure at Cannes which is great; I ADORE his designs. This dress featured an off-the-shoulder style with sequined godets highlighting the neckline with a beautiful simple belted column gown. I also loved her center parted chignon hairstyle.
Last but Not Least in my Top Ten Best Dressed of Cannes 2017 Days 4-6...
Naomi Campbell in Atelier Versace Spring 2017 at the Cannes Fashion For Relief Fundraiser Gala: Leave it to Miss Naomi Campbell to make it onto my Top Ten Best Dressed of Cannes 2017 Days 4-6. She wore this super sexy Atelier Versace Spring/Summer 2017 gown at the "Cannes Fashion For Relief" fundraiser event. The blush colored silk georgette dress featured an intricate Swarovski crystal encrusted web over the base of the gown, as well as side front slit to show off Campbell's iconic legs. This was a perfect choice for Naomi and she, naturally, wore it fabulously.
May 21, 2017
ROYAL COUTURE.....Pippa Middleton Wedding: Wedding Gown, Best Dressed & "Uh Oh" Guests!
Wedding Gorgeous: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews smile after their wedding--St. Marks Church Englefield England
Pippa Middleton--the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, married hedge fund manager and former professional racing driver, James Matthews on Saturday at a glorious wedding fitting a royal--or "Royal Adjacent". Pippa might not really be a royal but because of her very close approximation to one, I am placing her--and her wedding--in this Royal Couture blog. So let's discuss the wedding and more importantly, the Wedding Couture beginning with Pippa's wedding dress and then some of the guests...
The Dress:
Pippa Gown: Pippa Middleton chose a "Princess"/A-line shaped ballgown style for her wedding day. The handmade gown of lace and pearls was designed by British designer Giles Deacon. The dress was done in a manner that would not show any seams--by overlapping the lace--by hand--meticulously over the many seams that are in a gown of this silhouette. The dress featured a full ballgown skirt shape and UBER fitted drop-waist torso/bustier. It also had a high neckline, drop shoulder sleeve detail and heart-shaped semi-open back.
British designer Giles Deacon
Giles Deacon Couture Fall/Winter 2016, modeled by model Anna Cleveland, daughter of famed 70's Supermodel Pat Cleveland
Giles is said to have put on hold all his fashion business for the last few months to concentrate on Pippa's one-of-a-kind gown. His most recent "Couture" collection was for Fall/Winter 2016 and it showed glorious, billowing handmade gowns with exquisite applique detail. Pippa's wedding dress would probably cost in the realm of $75,000-$100,000, at least that would be the going price for an actual Haute Couture gown from the likes of Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Chanel or Dior. No news if she possibly got a "discount" for all the press he would receive.
The Veil:
The veil--of tulle and pearls--was done by famed milliner Stephen Jones.
Sister Fixing: Pippa's sister, Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge, was seen fixing Pippa's tulle-and-pearl veil as she was about to enter the church ceremony, just making sure that it was perfect
Shape Similar: Pippa's lace and pearl wedding gown was similar in shape to the iconic Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton wedding dress worn by her sister Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge
Sealed with a Kiss: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews as they emerge from their church wedding ceremony with their "Flower girls and boys", including William and Kate's children Prince George (second from right) and Princess Charlotte--St. Marks Church, Englefield England
Page Boys and Girls:
Stylish George: Prince George (center), giving a "look" to the photographers--and looking very much like his father when William was his age. Prince George looked super cute in a white Peter Pan collared shirt with mini pintucks and emerald green silk shantung knickers.
Royal Style:
Mommie Kate: Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge looked chic and wedding appropriate in a dusty rose/light salmon colored silk crepe dress from Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton. Her dress was a lady-like tea-length and featured a v-neckline, gathered Bishop sleeves, fitted midriff and pleated front skirt details. Her daughter Princess Charlotte looked ADORABLE in her gathered flower girl dress, with fresh flower headdress and pink cummerbund.
I have to say that Catherine looked very "Wallis Simpson Duchess of Windsor"-like in this 30's-like dress.
Dapper Brothers: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and his brother Prince Harry in their tailcoat/morning coat ensembles.
Guests:
Princess Eugenie, daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York--(seen here with her boyfriend Jack Brooksbank) wore this navy blue A-line shaped knee-length dress from French designer Paule Ka. The cotton dress features a "split-shoulder" neckline and retails for $1,014 HERE. For Pippa's wedding she decided to "play it safe" as opposed to her head-turning look at Kate's wedding.
Vanilla Yellow Donna: British actress--and aspiring fashion designer--Donna Air (who is on-off girlfriend to Pippa's hottie bearded brother James for the last four years)--attended the wedding in this lemon yellow/cream coat-dress from UK designer Emilia Wickstead Spring/Summer 2017 collection. Lots of fashion-watchers criticized her for saying that she should not have worn WHITE (a No-No as a wedding guest) but I have to disagree with these wanna-be-fashion experts...this coat-dress is NOT white and in fact more of a "vanilla yellow"-like color. I liked it! It was demure, elegant and lady-like. I also loved the matching hat and those fabulous ankle strapped pumps. The magenta colored clutch added a respite from all the vanilla/lemon yellow. Did I mention that this WAS NOT WHITE. OK. Thank you.
Tartan: A couple of male guests opted for tartan pants as part of their tailcoat ensembles. And I say "Go On Boys!". Love the tartan, love the statement and even though, yes, I know as a guest of a wedding, it really isn't about you but...I love when (especially) male guests GIVE YOU FASHION!
Flower Prints and Hats: These two guests stood out for their Wedding Fab printed dresses, perfect for a Spring/Summer wedding. I love the canary yellow flower printed dress on the left as well as the blue one on the right. Both looks are great examples of chic Wedding Guest Style, especially for a May wedding. If I had to chose my favorite of the two, it would be the blue; the waist-tie shirt dress style was elegant, fun and I loved the feminine ruffle details.
Fab Dressed: These two guests get my Wedding Guest Best Dressed points--the left one, for that fab pheasant feather-topped hat and blue-and-white ensemble as well as those navy-and-white pumps. I also loved the guest on the right in the pink pleated silk dress with Bishop sleeves and delicately appliqued detail. The gold pumps were a super chic addition.
Uh No Part One: Two female wedding guests that were not on my Best Dressed List were these printed ladies. Now, there's a way to do printed dresses for a wedding (scroll above) and this is a way to not do it. The guest on the left wore this drab Autumn-like printed dress that not only, looked dowdy but also said "I'm not happy at this wedding". And then, somehow, in the middle of May, the guest on the right thought it was fine to bring out her gray fur chubby/mini coat. All I can say is #GURL ! But kids, these two weren't the only ones who went Wedding Koo Koo Couture...
Happy Hands At Home Dress and Lifesaver Fruit Dress Guest: Well, look what we have here--the guest on the left looks as if she took her old Laura Ashley 80's bed sheet or window drapes and felt fine in making a dress out of it. And then, in addition, decided an iridescent organza shawl would make a fine accessory. Speaking of accessories, what in the name of the FASHION GODS are those putrid brown shoes??? Let's move on to the guest on the right--I give this woman points for being "sassy" in this colorful striped ensemble. And the big hat screams "I'm a good friend of the Gays" and I will bet a couple of British pounds that she's a hoot at the open bar, but...this is just too 1992 for me. Especially those "Lifesaver Fruit Flavor"-like buttons.
Oh well, at least, I can still go back to this gorgeous dress:
Congratulations to the Happy Couple--Pippa Middleton and James Matthews!
May 19, 2017
WHO WORE WHAT?.....Cannes Film Festival 2017 Day 1-3: Top 10 Best Dressed
Belle of the Cannes Ball: Bollywood Diva and former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan at 2017 Cannes Film Festival Red Carpet "Okja" Screening, Cannes Frances
This week is the 70th Annual Cannes Film Festival and you know what that means: RED CARPET FABULOUSNESS!!!! The Cannes Film Festival--and its very long red carpet--has always been a Fashion Extravaganza--but lately, in the last few years with the advent of Victoria's Secret Supermodels and random international actresses/fashion influencers, the Cannes Red Carpet has become the equivalent of the Academy Awards-meets-The Met Ball when it comes to Couture. Maybe there's something about being in the South of France...or that it is after all, Cannes, but...it has gotten the reputation of being a Red Carpet Heaven when it comes to actresses/models displaying extraordinary style.
Prom Queens: Dakota Fanning in Vivienne Westwood Couture, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Michael Cinco Couture and Araya A. Hargate in Olivier Theyskens--70th Annual Cannes Film Festival Red Carpet, Cannes France
For this 70th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, there seems to be a main Style Trend: 90's Prom-a-Licious. Lots of BIG BALLGOWNS, lots of late 80's/early 90's silhouettes, lots of POUF's (where's Christian Lacroix when you really need him??) long gloves and Prom-like necklaces. Here are my Top Ten Red Carpet Goddesses of Day 1-3:
Aishwayra Rai Bachchan in Michael Cinco Fall 2017: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan dropped the COUTURE Mic with this stunning baby blue silk organza/applique gown from Dubai-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco and his Michael Cinco Couture Fall/Winter 2017 "Infanta Maria Theresa" collection...
Gown Fab: If there was ever a moment to wear this--and wear it for free (as opposed to the $100,000+ it probably costs to order it!), it would be the Cannes Film Festival so...Kudos to Aishwarya and her Stylist for choosing this for her. #Love
Deepika Padukone in Brandon Maxwell: Styled by A-list celebrity stylist Elizabeth Salzman (who styles Gwenyth Paltrow and Uma Thurman), Denmark-born Bollywood Indian actress and L'Oreal Global Ambassador Deepika Padukone, wore this green gown from Lady Gaga favorite designer Brandon Maxwell on Day 2 of the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. The one shoulder gown was daring, sexy and column fabulous, featuring a high side-front slit opening, and beautiful back drape "fall" detail. One of the BEST LOOKS from 2017 Cannes Days 1-3.
Araya A. Hargate in Olivier Theyskens Spring 2017: British-Thai actress--and recent Red Carpet Darling--Araya A "Chompoo" Hargate, was very much on the 90's prom Trend Vibe when she delighted the 2017 Cannes Red Carpet Paparazzi in this black strapless gown from French designer Olivier Theyskens--formerly of Nina Ricci, Rochas and Theory. He has his own namesake line now and Araya seems to be the perfect muse for it--at least for one day at Cannes. I thought she looked quite elegant, sexy and 90's Prom Retro--the gloves, the shape of the gown...the necklace...it was all On-Trend!
Araya A. "Chompoo" Hargate in Ralph & Russo Spring 2017 Couture: Araya landed in my Top Favorite 2017 Cannes Red Carpet Looks of Day 1-3 TWICE, and here's my second pick--this look of a white gown with white silk cape covered with crystals and ostrich feathers--from British design line Ralph & Russo and their Spring 2017 Couture collection. She's got a bit of a baby bump and looked quite beautiful and dare I say sexy-appropriate! Love the Cannes Drama of that cape. This is how you show up to Cannes darlings!
Sara Sampaio in Zuhair Murad Spring 2017: Portuguese model--and Victoria's Secret Angel--Sara Sampaio--dazzled at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival in one of my favorite gowns so far--this fire-red design from Lebanese couturier Zuhair Murad and his Spring/Summer 2017 Couture collection. The ballgown featured "fireworks"-like hand sewn sequins over a silk organza and crinoline tulle base with a full A-line shape skirt and semi-plunging neckline. As you can see, the silk satin draped waist piece was removed and I think that was a good idea!
Fan Bingbing in Elie Saab Spring 2017 Couture: Next up on my Day 1-3 2017 Cannes Red Carpet Favorite Looks is this blue gown worn by Chinese actress and Fashion Diva Fan Bingbing. The gown is from Lebanese fashion designer Elie Saab and his Spring/Summer 2017 Couture collection. I absolutely love this dress; the delicate torso hand pleating is gorgeous as well as the soft yet drama-fab look of the attached gathered neckline cape. She looks like the Empress of a country...at a black tie official dinner event!
Elle Fanning in Vivienne Westwood Couture: Actress and one of the newest L'Oreal Brand Ambassadors Elle Fanning, looked marvelous and so on the 90's Prom Fab Trend with this white strapless ballgown from Vievienne Westwood Couture. The gown was custom-made for her and the artwork was hand painted, naturally. Westwood's team said that it took 10 people to work on the dress and it took more than 300 hours to finish over the course of ten days. It was very pretty and so Grace Kelly-at-Cannes-like...for the 21st Century.
Julianne Moore in Givenchy Couture: American actress Julianne Moore looked like a modern fashion Diva, in this red gown from Givenchy Couture Spring/Summer 2017 that she wore for the 2017 Cannes Opening Night Gala and "Ismael's Ghosts" (Les Fantômes d’Ismaël) Screening. The gown--in its original form--was in a light peach color, but for Julianne , it was created in a strong Red Carpet RED! The dress featured hand applied feathered applique and if you look closely, she was wearing matching silk lace pants under it. I loved it! It was directional, fashion-fab and unique, in a good way! Moore would probably have never worn something like this in the U.S. (too "out there" for that market!) but I give her points for "going there" in Cannes France.
Uma Thurman in Atelier Versace Fall 2016: What U.S. actress Uma Thurman is wearing on the 70th Annual Cannes Film Festival Opening Night "Ismael's Ghosts (Les Fantômes d’Ismaël)" Screening Gala is my 9th favorite Red Carpet look of 2017 Cannes Film Festival Day 1-3. Thurman chose a pink body-hugging gown from Atelier Versace Fall/Winter 2016 collection. The pleated drape across her off-the-shoulder neckline was exquisite as well as in the front of the dress. The gown was fitted to a 1/4" of her life! She looked DIVINE!
Lily Collins in Johanna Ortiz Spring 2017: Lastly, I wanted to give "2017 Cannes Red Carpet Props" to the beautiful Lily Collins in this chic and fashion-forward ensemble from designer Johanna Ortiz which she wore for the "Okja" photocall in Cannes. Colombian designer Ortiz is known for her "Oscar de la Renta"-like poufs and ruffles and I absolutely loved this striped top and sequined pencil skirt outfit on the lovely Lily Collins at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. She dazzled and looked Muy Chic!
