Nick Verreos's Blog, page 27

FIDM.....FIDM DEBUT 2018: BLOG RECAP of MC'ing Educators Luncheon

  Welcome to FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon!--Nick Verreos at FIDM LA Campus, ready to MC the FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon


Last Thursday was the start of my annual 3-day FIDM Debut festivities, which is highlighted by the fabulous FIDM Debut Show , a grand fashion show showcasing the work of the Advanced Fashion Design, Theatre Costume Design, Interior Design, and Textile Design students, among others. As the Official Spokesperson (and alumnus) for the college, I always look forward to "FIDM DEBUT Week".






To begin the week, I had the honor of MC'ing the FIDM Educators Luncheon, as part of FIDM's Educators Day...





Welcome to FIDM's Educators Day!--Nick Verreos, FIDM Los Angeles Campus, FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon


The Luncheon is a way to honor the FIDM educators, college reps and advisers from all over the U.S. who help, guide, advise and educate junior high school, high school and post-graduate students about FIDM and what the college has to offer. 










Delicious Lunch and Yummy Dessert--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon of Salad Starter, Main Entree Chicken Piccata and Cupcakes for Dessert


They enjoy a very nice lunch, listen to a special speaker, and delight in mingling with other educators/reps/advisers. I especially LOVE hosting this Luncheon since I spend a lot of time with some of these educators during many of the FIDM events I do at all four campuses, including "Open House" and "3 Days of Fashion" ...and so, naturally, I bow to them and all the work they do! 



Here are photos from the this year's FIDM Debut Educators Luncheon, including my MC duties, post Luncheon Meet & Greet and a bonus: Hanging out with my new "Fashion Besties" from Skid Row Denim & Apparel:




Ready to Host--Nick Verreos onstage at FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon--Grand Hope Park, FIDM L.A. Campus





Nick Verreos introducing FIDM Vice President of Education and FIDM Museum Director, Barbara Bundy--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





 Pageant Coloring Book Prize--All the five ticket raffle winners got a wonderful bag filled with goodies including my "The Pageant Coloring Book"--Nick Verreos onstage at the FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





  Autograph Time--I personally signed all the winner's "The Pageant Coloring Books"...OF COURSE!!!--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





(L to R) Spencer Williams-FIDM Special Events Coordinator; Nick Verreos; Royden Vigilance of Skid Row Denim & Apparel; Keynote Speaker Scott Lifschultz-Founder and President of SPL Reality Partners; Tanya Buzalsky-FIDM Special Events Regional Director--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





Educator Group Photo Time!--Nick Verreos with college reps (L to R) Debbie Brown, Annie Miller, Tawny Sharp, Michelle Prior-Alameda, Cecile Fayen and Susan Carruthers--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





Nick Verreos with FIDM Special Events Coordinator Spencer Williams (L) and college rep Barbara Fitzwilson-Contreras and Jeanie Fisher (R)--FIDM debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus


After the Educators Luncheon, it was time to check out the wonderful Pop Up Stores that were on campus as part of the FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Day, including my NEW BEST FRIENDS: The wonderful (and FAB) crew at Skid Row Denim & Apparel:






  Nick Verreos with FIDM Special Events Coordinator Spencer Williams (far left), and the Skid Row Denim & Apparel crew (L to R) Brad Robinson, Lee Raagas (kneeling), Kisha Claude and Royden Vigilance--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Day, Skid Row Denim & Apparel Pop Op Store, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus







  Getting (Denim) Lifted--Nick Verreos with Skid Row Denim &n Apparel's Brad Robinson at the Skid Row Denim & Apparel Pop Op Store--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Day, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





Nick Verreos and Brad Robinson at the Skid Row Denim & Apparel Pop Up Store--FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Day, Grand Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus





And the lovely crew at Skid Row Denim & Apparel surprised me with a FABULOUS new denim jacket too!!! LOVE them!





That's a Wrap...for the FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon!--Nick Verreos onstage at the FIDM Debut 2018 Educators Luncheon, Garnd Hope Park FIDM L.A. Campus 


*STAY TUNED for more FIDM DEBUT 2018 BLOGS!

NV NICK VERREOS.....Behind-the-Scenes Photos of "NV Nick Verreos" Show: QVC UK London

Nick Verreos with QVC UK models in his NV Nick Verreos designs--QVC UK London


A couple of weeks ago, I had the chance to fly to London for the launch of the Spring 2018 line of my "NV Nick Verreos" clothing line--EXCLUSIVELY on QVC UK ! For several years now, I have sold my "NV Nick Verreos" line of affordable sportswear--tops, jeans, jackets, dresses--on QVC UK for the British pubic and it's been great!






Nick Verreos and QVC UK Host Anne Dawson during "NV Nick Verreos" Spring 2018 Show, QVC UK London


Just in time for Spring Fashion, I decided to go to London and to be there myself to showcase my clothing line for all the UK Fashionistas and my "NV Nick Verreos" ladies! I had two fabulous shows and had LOTS of SELL-OUT'S!



Here are many Behind-the-Scenes Photos of my time at QVC UK in London:




Backstage Rack--My "NV Nick Verreos" Spring 2018 line--ready to be styled and worn by models--QVC UK London





Details, Details, Details--Close-up detail shots of my latest "NV Nick Verreos" QVC UK studded and grommet tops and crystal-embellished "denim" jacket--QVC UK London







Nick Verreos with QVC UK Host Anne Dawson--NV Nick Verreos Spring 2018 Show, QVC UK London







Nick Verreos and QVC UK Host Anne Dawson, with models in "NV Nick Verreos" Spring 2018 styles--QVC UK London







Model  in "NV Nick Verreos" QVC UK Printed Knit Maxi Dress and White Studded "Denim" Jacket








Models in "NV Nick Verreos" QVC UK Knit Jersey Tops and SUPER Stretch Jeans--QVC UK London











"NV Nick Verreos" Printed Twist-Drape Maxi Dress--SOLD OUT!!








Nick Verreos with QVC UK Host Kathy Tayler--"NV Nick Verreos" Spring 2018 Show, QVC UK London





Nick Verreos with QVC UK model in "NV Nick Verreos" White Studded Jacket (SOLD OUT!), turquoise knit jersey top and blush colored jeans--QVC UK London Spring 2018 Show





QVC UK Models in "NV Nick Verreos" Spring 2018 looks--QVC UK London Spring 2018 Show





Models in NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Printed Knit Maxi Dresses--QVC UK London Spring 2018 Show








Models in NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Knit Top and Super Stretch Jeans; Models in NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Tops and Printed Joggers--QVC UK London Spring 2018 Show


After my shows were done, I had ONE AFTERNOON to go sightseeing in London and then, it was time to fly back home to LA...




CHEERS London!!! XO, Nick

NIKOLAKI.....Make-A-Wish San Diego 2018 "Fashion With A Passion" FIDM San Diego: RECAP!

Pink Pretty--Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish San Diego wish child, Kailey, and models Amanda Lindauer and Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI gowns--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego


Last Saturday, I had the honor to be part of the 8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Event & Fashion Show benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM San Diego . This is the second consecutive year that I have been invited to be the "featured designer" in such a wonderful event for a GREAT cause.










Ready for a WONDERFUL event--Nick Verreos arrives at FIDM San Diego, 8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego


Every year, "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" partners with Make-A-Wish San Diego and through its "Fashion Fairies" group, grants wishes to San Diego and Imperial County children battling life-threatening medical conditions.






Barbie Photo Time--Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish San Diego Wish Child, Kailey, having fun in the "Barbie" Photo Booth--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego Event, FIDM San Diego


This year's Wish Child was Kailey, a BEAUTIFUL young girl of ten years old, whose wish was to be "a fashion designer for my favorite Barbie doll"...






Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish San Diego Wish Child, Kailey, and her very own Nick Verreos Project Runway My Scene Barbie Doll--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego


As a surprise to her, we found one of my "Project Runway" My Scene Barbie's on the web (from the "Project Runway" Challenge I won back in Season 2), bought it and then gave it to her as a gift...and of course, I signed it especially for her! In addition, Kelly Richardson Pudgil --an FIDM Grad who designs children's clothing--created custom-made dresses for her inspired by my "Barbie" as well as a pink gown I designed for the 50th Anniversary of Barbie Fashion Show at FIDM DEBUT 2009 ....






Runway Kailey--Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish San Diego Wish Child, Kailey, wearing a dress by Kelly Richardson Pudgil--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego






Barbie Pink Pretty--Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish Wish Child, Kailey (right) wearing pink dress by Kelly Richardson Pudgil and model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI pink silk duchesse gown--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego




In addition to the "Barbie"-inspired mini-theme of the event, I also MC'ed a very special fashion show showcasing some of my very glamorous NIKOLAKI gowns that I especially brought to San Diego for this event...Oh and yes, there was a FANTASTIC Silent Auction with lots of GREAT goodies...as well as a VERY SPECIAL Meet & Greet/Book Signing with my books "A Passion For Fashion" and "The Pageant Coloring Book" (which I personally autographed for anyone who bought the books).

Here are lots of PHOTOS from the WONDERFUL day:







Silent Auction:








 Lots of Goodies--The Silent Auction Room at the 8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego


NIKOLAKI Gowns Fashion Show:






Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI Strapless Red Silk Ziberline "mermaid" shaped gown--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Nick Verreos with model Amanda Fields Bennett showing the details on his NIKOLAKI strapless black paillettes sequined silk gown--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Deigo" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego









Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI one shoulder lavender sequined cocktail dress--worn by Katy Perry--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







  Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI ivory silk ziberline gown with Swarovski crystal embellishment--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI sequined silk gown with capelet, cowl neckline and side slit--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







  Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI coral and pink-colored silk duchesses and ziberline ballgown--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







  Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI pink colored silk duchesse strapless gown with Swarovski crystal back bow detail--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego













  Pink Beauties--Make-A-Wish San Diego Wish Child, Kailey (center), and models Amber and Amanda in NIKOLAKI gowns--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







Book Signing and Meet & Greet:




Author Happy--David Paul and Nick Verreos, authors of "The Pageant Coloring Book" at the 8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





To Kailey XOXO, Nick Verreos--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







With the FAB FIDM Gals--Nick Verreos poses with current and former FIDM educators/advisors--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





San Diego Familia--I was so honored to have my San Diego familia--David's mom, sister Marisa and niece Emilie--attend the "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" event...and in fact, we were so grateful that Emilie was our WONDERFUL "Sales Director" as people lined up to buy our books...WE LUV You Emilie!--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego


















Meet & Greet Pics--Nick Verreos posing with guests of the 8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Our "Barbie" Queen Kailey--David Paul and Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish San Diego Wish Child, Kailey, and her very own signed copy of our "The Pageant Coloring Book" as well as her very own "Project Runway" Nick Verreos My Scene Barbie Doll--8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





I "Heart" Kailey--Nick Verreos with Make-A-Wish San Diego Wish Child, Kailey, and her signed copy of "The Pageant Coloring Book" and very own "Project Runway" Nick Verreos My Scene Barbie Doll 8th Annual "Fashion With A Passion San Diego" Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego

NICK APPEARANCES.....Hosting Bloomingdale's "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event: BLOG RECAP!

Nick Verreos Spring 2018 "The Makeup Date"--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks Fashion Square




A couple of weekend's ago, I had the honor of hosting the Bloomingdale's Spring 2018 "The Makeup Date" Event at the  Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks  at the Westfield Fashion Square Shopping Center....and I had A BLAST! If you do not know what "The Makeup Date" is, it is a fun event where Bloomingdale's highlights the latest in makeup and beauty trends of the season.








  Nick Hosts "The Makeup Date"--Nick Verreos hosting Bloomingdale's Spring 2018 "The Makeup Date" Event at Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks, Westfield Fashion Square



The event brings experts from various top makeup, fragrance and beauty companies such as Chanel, Tom Ford, Giorgio Armani, Ferragamo, Trish McVoy + many more...to give quick beauty tutorials as well as give away FABULOUS raffle gifts...all EXCLUSIVE to Bloomingdale's VIP customers.






  Presenting...The Makeup Date--Nick Verreos Hosts the Spring 2018 "the Makeup Date" Event, Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks Fashion Square


Here are photos from the fun-and-fab Spring 2018 "The Makeup Date" Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks Event:




Nick Verreos Hosting "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event at Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks





Paulo Anthony Grayson (left) during the SpaceNK demonstration--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event Hosted by Nick Verreos





Nick Verreos choosing a Raffle Winner, during the Estee Lauder Demonstration--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks"The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event







Tom Ford Beauty Demo--Nick Verreos with model and Carter (left), Tom Ford Marketing Specialist--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event





Trish McVoy Demonstration with Trish McVoy LA Market Coordinator Ingrid Moncada (center) showing the "Deep Sheet Mask" on model--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event





Can I help??--Nick Verreos joins in during the Chanel Beauty Demonstration with John Fussell (left), Chanel Beauty US Global Artist, and model (center), Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event





Chantecaille Beauty Demo--Oh Ros (left), Chantecaille West Coast Artist, demonstrates how to use the "Anniversary Eyeshadow Palette" on model--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event






Nick Verreos with Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks fashion Square Store Manager--Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event







Meet & Greet Pic Time!--Nick Verreos with attendees of Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event







Group Photo!--Nick Verreos with Beauty/Makeup/Fragrance Experts, backstage at Bloomingdale's Sherman Oaks "The Makeup Date" Spring 2018 Event

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Binibining Pilipinas 2018 Finals EVENING GOWN RECAP: My TOP TEN Favorites!

Crowned Beauty--Contestant No. 20 Catriona Elisa Gray wins Binibining Pilipinas 2018 and gets crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2018 by last year's winner Rachel Peters, Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City  

Photos courtesy of Rappler.com, Binibining Pilipinas Facebook


Last Sunday was the Crowning Night of the 2018 Binibining Pilipinas Beauty Pageant. I have been traveling--and in London--very busy showcasing my latest "NV Nick Verreos" Spring 2018 line for QVC UK so I haven't had the chance to do my GOWN RECAP of the Finals until now! The very prestigious pageant was won by the beautiful Catriona Elisa Gray who bested 39 other beauties for the top prize in Filipina Beauty Pageants. Catriona was a favorite for the top crown from the minute she signed on to compete so it came as no surprise that she won...






My BEST IN GOWNS??? Keep reading...





Other international representatives were crowned during the 2018 Binibining Pilipinas Beauty pageant including Michele Gumabao Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2018 (2nd from left), Eva Psychee Patalinjug Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2018 (3rd from left), Maria Ahtisa Manalo Binibining International 2018 (4th from right), Jehza Mae Huelar Binibining Pilipinas Supranational 2018 (3rd from right), and Karen Gallman Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2018 (2nd from right)













Catriona Gray, the new Miss Universe Philippines 2018, during the Grand Coronation Finals of Binibining Pilipinas 2018




The 24-year-old 5' 10" (1.78 m) tall Filipina-Australian Catriona Gray is a television host and model and no stranger to competing in international pageants; she won the Miss World Philippines title two years ago and competed in the Miss World 2016 Pageant, where she placed as a Top 5 Finalist...








Miss World Philippines, Catriona Gray during the Miss World 2016 Pageant


At this year's Binibining Pilipinas 2018, Catriona bagged several top awards including:






Best in National Costume--wearing a Singkil Princess Costume designed by Jearson Demavivas--the ensemble was dramatic, regal and rich-looking







Best in Swimsuit--Catriona also won the "Best in Swimsuit" award. While I thought she looked great, I just wasn't a fan of those swimsuits!! Seriously WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THE BUST PADS??!!!! #BAD











And now...THE EVENING GOWNS RECAP! 




Best in Long Gown--The Top 25 contestants in the Binibining Pilipinas 2018 Beauty Pageant got the change to "Glam It Up" for the Long Gown Competition. The contestants donned colorful and very glittery gowns created by some of the top Filipino fashion designers showcasing the country's design talent.








  Eventually, Contestant No. 20--yes, Catriona Gray (third from right)--also won the Best in Long Gown Award for what she wore. 




So....let's begin my TOP TEN BEST IN GOWNS, beginning with my FAVORITE...







1. Contestant No. 20 Catriona Gray--Catriona wore this gorgeous gold/nude gown for the Finals. The dress was designed by Mak Tumang . According to the designer, the gown was created using muted gold paillettes encrusted with more than 10,000 Swarovski crystals. The nude illusion back was inspired by the "splatter of the waves" of the Phillipine Island's coasts. I thought this was a perfect gown for Catriona and very on-trend with what all the top pageant queens are wearing. The fit was superb and the golden shimmer was striking on stage.

Score: 9.85





I also LOVED...




Catriona's "Three Stars and the Sun" earring cuff, created by Tessara Jewelry. She said that she wanted to add a "patriotic" touch and was inspired by the stars and sun in the Philippine flag. 




2. Contestant No. 14 Samantha Mae Bernardo--This gown worn by Samantha Bernardo was my second favorite gown of the night. She wore this canary yellow colored creation featuring thousands of dégradé crystals going from light to heavy toward the hem. The gown also had a sweetheart neckline and fit-and-flare shape. I thought the design was elegant and impacting and definitely a style that would have worked on a top red carpet such as the Oscars as well. I also loved the perfect length and the fact that I couldn't see those DARN NUDE PLATFORM PUMPS (I'm not a fan!). But, yes, my favorite part was the dramatic built-in cape; so regal and Diva Fab.

Score: 9.75






3. Contestant No. 19 Michele Theresa Gumabao--I'm a big fan of a chic one shoulder dress and this was no exception. I loved this one shoulder yellow gown worn by Michele Gumabao, which featured coral and silver crystal embellishment beautifully placed throughout the dress. The fit was on-point (look at that perfect length!) and looked so sleek on her. I also liked how she wore her hair in a great chignon and kept the jewelry to just simple pretty earrings. Michele looked rich and above it all.

Score: 9.60














4. Contestant No. 38 Karen Juanita Gallman--In 4th position is this red sequined gown worn by Karen Gallman. This was THE DEFINITION of a PERFECT RED GOWN...especially for a Beauty Pageant! The fit-and-flare silhouette was stunning and had strong stage impact. The long train added drama and in addition, I loved the torso details and neckline. Karen looked beautiful and ready to take a top crown in this...and she did, winning the Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2018 sash and tiara!

Score: 9.55







5. Contestant No. 31 Jehza Mae Huelar--At No. 5 is this golden sequined design worn by Jehza Huelar. The well-fitting gown was exquisite in its design and mermaid-like shape, but what i really loved were the cascading insets at the bottom which gave the gown fabulous movement and interesting structure.

Score: 9.50





6. Contestant No. 11 Maria Andrea Abesamis--Maria Andrea wore this mermaid-shaped gown featuring powder blue, silver, white and gold crystals, some in a 3-D flower applique design. I liked how the lightly colored sequined embellishment looked over the nude crinoline base and I especially liked the back cascading drapes and folds. The gown was very Pageant Fab and had enough interesting detail to keep a fashionista like myself interested.

Score: 9.40 







7. Contestant No. 23 Ena Louis Velasco--This was one of the prettiest nude/blush-style gowns in Sunday night's pageant. The delicately beaded dress fit beautifully and looked great on Ena. I especially liked the lilac and pink colored crystals mixed in with the silver ones, creating a gorgeous image at the upper torso.

Score: 9.35














8. Contestant No. 3 Murielle Adrienne Orais--Murielle wore this white sequined gown featuring criss-cross beaded design, encrusted crystal trim, an illusion top neckline, and a center front slit. The white-over-nude coloring was impacting onstage and a nice change from all the other very colorful (or golden) gowns and looked impacting on her. I also liked her styling--the elegant chignon and simple earrings. If I had any critique, I thought the gown was a bit short and like I have said before, I'm not a fan of those nude platform pumps, especially when we can actually see them; she should have worn nude or silver strappy NON PLATFORM heels, and if she did, the length of the gown would have been perfect!

Score: 9.20







9. Contestant No. 17 Maria Ahtisa Manalo--Maria won the 2nd place sash and crown of Binibining Pilipinas International and was a top favorite during the pageant. She wore this bubblegum pink colored gown with a side front slit and back attached overskirt. Even though--in terms of design--this wasn't an earth-shaking gown; this wasn't necessarily Pageant COUTURE...but I loved the color and pretty beading in the front torso. I also thought she looked like a Pageant Doll with her perfectly curled center-front parted hairstyle. She'll do well at Miss International in Japan this upcoming Fall.

Score: 9.05





10. Contestant No. 7 Sigrid Grace Flores--Sigrid wore this golden strapless gown that onstage, sparkled to no end; she looked stunning! During the Long Gown Catwalk, she showed it with an iridescent organza coat which she wisely removed for the rest of the pageant. While I really wasn't a fan of the pointy bust edges, the rest of the gown was so impacting that I almost forgot they were there.

Score: 9.00











And a GOWN BONUS...


Contestant No. 37 Patrizia Mariah Garcia--I wanted to add Patrizia and the gown she wore at Binibining Pilipinas 2018 for various reasons: First, there was really no other gown that was so over-the-top Pageant Fabulous; I also thought the sequined applique was unique and the feathered bottom section gave it a Couture-like air in terms of design.

Score: 8.99

But more importantly, I really liked it because it actually reminded me of one of the gown sketches I did for my "Pageant Coloring Book":




Sequined and Feathered Couture Queen--Sketch from my "Pageant Coloring Book"





CONGRATULATIONS to Catriona, the newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines and to all the other beautiful winners--and CONGRATULATIONS to the Binibining Pilipinas Organization for a wonderful pageant!




...And Don't Forget about my "The Pageant Coloring Book" where you can create your VERY OWN Evening Gown Competition using my Fashion Illustrations! Click HERE to Purchase:

RIP....RIP Hubert de Givenchy: Master of Haute Couture, Elegance, Class: A PHOTO DEDICATION

Fashion Designer Hubert de Givenchy


The Fashion World has lost a LEGEND. A Master of Haute Couture, elegance, class and perfection. French fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy--yes, THE GIVENCHY--has died, at the age of 91. Count Hubert James Marcel Taffin de Givenchy founded the French fashion house of Givenchy in 1952. Before then, at the age of seventeen, he moved to Paris and studied at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts. During the 1940's, he designed for Jacques Fath, Robert Piquet and Lucien Lelong. From 1947-1951, he worked alongside Elsa Schiaparelli. His first collection was inspired by his muse...






French model Bettina Grazziani


During the shoot of the movie "Sabrina", Givenchy met actress Audrey Hepburn in 1953 and then, it was "done and done". The two sealed the deal with their iconic partnership in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961) where she wore his infamous Little Black Dress. They remained friends for forty years until her death in 1993. Givenchy's clients also ranged from Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor to Empress Farah Diba of Iran, Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. They paid $25,000-$50,000 a gown (at today's exchange) when ordering a style. In 1989, the brand was sold to LVMH. Hubert de Givenchy officially retired in 1995, handing over the design duties to John Galliano who lasted only briefly and was then succeeded by Alexander McQueen for five years...and Riccardo Tisci from 2005-2017. Givenchy died in his sleep at his Renaissance chateau. Here is my PHOTO DEDICATION to the Master, Hubert de Givenchy:








Hubert de Givenchy with then-fashion model Carla Bruni (and future First Lady of France) as the Finale Bride--Givenchy Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1994





Hubert de Givenchy--with his sketches for the Givenchy Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1994 collection







Givenchy Haute Couture Fall/Winter 1994 (L) worn by a very young Tyra Banks; Spring/Summer 1994 (R) blue silk gazar belted dress.





Givenchy Haute Couture Fall/Winter 1994 (L) and Spring/Summer 1994 (R)





Givenchy Haute Couture Spring/Summer (L) worn by former Miss World Kenya 1984 (and Yves Saint Laurent muse) Khadija Adam Ismail; and Fall/Winter 1994 (R)


Hubert de Givenchy and Audrey Hepburn:




Hubert de Givenchy and Audrey Hepburn





1952--Hubert de Givenchy with Audrey Hepburn





1963--Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy Haute Couture





Photoshoot Fab--Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy Haute Couture --1955 (L) and 60's (R)






Sabrina Givenchy--Givenchy sketch and gown--worn by Audrey Hepburn in "Sabrina" (1954)





Funny Face Givenchy--Audrey Hepburn wearing Givenchy in "Funny Face" (1957)





1961 Breakfast at Tifaany's Givenchy Little Black Dress--The dress wasn't so little, in that it was full length, and was designed to highlight her long legs and great shoulders/arms but hide her very thin front neckline. 





Lifelong Friendship: Hubert de Givenchy and Audrey Hepburn





Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor wore Givenchy Haute Couture for the funeral of her husband, Edward VIII in 1972







1961--U.S. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy wore Givenchy Haute Couture (but kept it a secret since the U.S press might deem it "inappropriate" to be wearing a French designer as a U.S. First Lady) when she accompanied her husband, President Kennedy on a State Visit to France and charmed the country--as well as then-President of France Charles de Gaulle at a dinner in Versailles. 









Le Hubert--Hubert de Givenchy at home with his dog







Givenchy Croquis--Fashion sketches from Hubert de Givenchy Haute Couture








RIP Hubert de Givenchy.

SASHES AND TIARAS.....2018 Puteri Indonesia Miss Universe Indonesia CROWNED + THE GOWNS!

  Indonesian Beauties--The newly crwned 2018 Puteri Indonesia (Miss Universe Indonesia), Sonia Fergina (center) with 1st Runner-up Puteri Indonesia Lingkungan (Miss Indonesia International) Vania Fitryanti (Left) and 2nd Runner-Up Puteri Indonesia Pariwisata (Miss Indonesia Supranational) Wilda Octaviana (Right)--Jakarta Convention Center, Jakarta Indonesia



 Some photos courtesy of Puteri Indonesia Official Facebook Page


This past Friday, March 9th, the 2018 Puteri Indonesia Beauty Pageant occurred crowning its new top Indonesian beauties. Puteri Indonesia is one of the most prestigious and oldest beauty pageants in Indonesia, whose winner gets the privilege to represent her country at the Miss Universe pageant. This year 39 contestants competed for the coveted title and Sonia Fergina Citra , the representative from Bangka Belitung, emerged as the top winner...






  Crowning Moment: Last year's Miss Universe Indonesia Bunga Jelitha (center) gets ready to crown the new 2018 Puteri Indonesia who will replace her...with eventual winner Sonia Fergina (Left) and 1st Runner-Up Vania Fitryanti (Right)--Jakarata Convention Center, Jakarta Indonesia







The new winner...





Sonia Fergina represented the province of the Bangka Belitung Islands. She's 25 years old and stands 1.78 m (5' 10") tall and is the youngest child of her family. She is no stranger to beauty pageants in that she was Top 10 in "Miss Oriental Tourism 2012" in Singapore, won "Model Mall Atrium in Style 2015" and was 1st Runner-Up of "Wajah Model Ramaja Bungka Belitung 2005". She will now represent Indonesia at the 2018 Miss Universe pageant occurring at the end of this year.



Special Guests in Fabulous Gowns...




  This year, the reigning Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel Peters of South Africa (second from right) attended, helping crown the winner as well as asking a final question during the finals.







Demi-Leigh wore a stunning Indonesian Kebaya gown designed by INAV by Intan Avantie--the gown featured hand embellished gold and royal blue flower-and-leaf designs, gold lace trim and a blush/golden silk organza overskirt. 









Besides Miss Universe 2017, two other international beauty queens were in attendance, invited by the Puteri Indonesia organization--Miss Supranational 2017 Jenny Kim from South Korea (second from left) and Indonesia's won Miss International 2017 Kevin Lilliana (center)--seen here with last year's Puteri Indonesia winners, all wearing Couture Kebayas from INAV by Intan Avantie in styles similar to the one worn by Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel Peters


Miss Universe 2017, Miss International 2017 and Miss Supranational 2017 weren't the only ones in fabulous gowns, since throughout the night, the pageant was a Gown-Spectacular show...showcasing the spectacular handwork and intricate designs of Indonesian design talent...




During the 2018 Puteri Indonesia pageant, the contestants all wore glittery gown throughout the night, including gold and silver sequined ones seen above after the naming of the Top 11 Semifinalists--2018 Puteri Indonesia Beauty Pageant





  The Top 11 semifinalists changed into these pink-and-red gowns featuring sequined fabrication along with solid flowy silks in various styles--2018 Puteri Indonesia Beauty Pageant





  Top Three in Pink/Red Gowns--2018 Puteri Indonesia Beauty Pageant






For the Finals, the Top Three did yet ANOTHER Gown Change for the Finale Crowning Gowns...




The top three wore these STUNNING creations by ANAZ , known for outfitting many beauty pageant contestants and winners at international pageants...





ANAZ gowns at Miss Grand International 2017 (L to R) Miss Grand Venezuela Tulia Aleman, Miss Grand South Sudan Eyga Mojus and Miss Grand International 2016 Arsika Putri Pertiwi









Gown Beautiful--2018 Puteri Indonesia Winner (center) with her Runners-Up in their ANAZ gowns...





The gowns were inspired by the beauty of flora and fauna of Pasundan Land. The designs featured sequined applique reminiscent of  the butterflies that fly around the flower garden under the shade of Mega Mendung’s. Other inspiration comes from the Batik of Mega Mendung, symbolizing the authentic heritage’s beauty of Pasundan Land--all in all these were stunning gown works of art!

Photo courtesy of ANAZ Instagram







CONGRATULATIONS and SELAMAT...to the WINNERS!!






...And Don't Forget about my "The Pageant Coloring Book" where you can create your VERY OWN Evening Gown Competition using my Fashion Illustrations! Click HERE to Purchase:

NICK APPEARANCES.....90 Years of Oscars Style FIDM Museum NIKOLAKI Gown Segment RECAP!

Gown Fabulous--Nick Verreos with models (L to R) Amber Lindauer, Amanda Fields Bennett, Brianna Barnes, Lily Taylor in NIKOLAKi gowns--KTLA "Live From The Oscars" 90 Years of Style TV Segment, FIDM Museum




In my last blog HERE , I showed you guys Behind-the-Scenes photos of being part of KTLA's "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show TV Special . So, now it's time to for my Behind-the-Scenes Blog of filming at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM Museum's 26th Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition discussing the Academy Award nominated costumes as well as a segment I did showcasing my NIKOLAKI fashion line's gowns to celebrate 90 years of Oscars Style.



Behind-the-Scenes Photos:




Nick Verreos--KTLA "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show Special, FIDM Museum





Four-time Academy Award Winner Costume Designer Colleen Atwood's Oscars statuesque for winning the 2017 Best Costume Design Academy Award (for "Fantastic Beats and Where to Find Them")--on display at the FIDM Museum 26th Annual Art of Costume Design Exhibition







Giving Costume "Dish"--Nick Verreos filming segments on the 2018 Academy Award nominated costumes on exhibit at FIDM Museum's 26th Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition





Nick Verreos--"90 Years of Oscars Style" segment for KTLA "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show TV Special--FIDM Museum








Ready to be Dressed--NIKOLAKI gowns--FIDM Museum




In the special "90 Years of Oscars Style" segment on the KTLA "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show , I showed several of our NIKOLAKI gowns as being "inspired" by all the various decades--from 1920s-2010's--that the Academy Awards has been a part of (The 1st Academy Awards ceremony took place in 1929)...Take a look:










1920's Inspired Great Gatsby Gal: Model Brianna Barnes in NIKOLAKI bias-cut gold silk charmeuse asymmetrical hem draped gown--My partner David styled all the gowns and for this particular one, he used a GORGEOUS 1920's feathered fan that was HIS GRANDMOTHER'S!!! David also created the beautiful headpiece--FIDM Museum 





1930's Inspired Hollywood Glamour: Model Amanda Fields Bennett in a NIKOLAKI bias-cut red silk charmeuse cowl-neck gown with draped back--FIDM Museum







1930's Inspired Draping: Model Lily Taylor in a NIKOLAKI iris blue colored silk jersey draped gown with copper paillette waist detail--FIDM Museum





1940's Inspired Tailored Gown: Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI neon green colored silk duchesse pleated peplum shoulder padded gown--FIDM Museum





1960's Inspired Jacqueline Kennedy Style: Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKi silk satin organza black gown with silk organza ivory hi-lo cape with Swarovski jeweled neckline--FIDM Museum







1970's Inspired Disco Style: Model Brianna Barnes in NIKOLAKI one shoulder jumpsuit in green "cheetah"-printed silk mousseline and black silk duchesse--FIDM Museum





1980's Inspired Diva: Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI raspberry colored silk ziberline mermaid-shaped gown--FIDM Museum





2000's Inspired Glam: Model Lily Taylor in NIKOLAKI coral colored silk ziberline gown with back "Obi"-inspired cascade bow detail--FIDM Museum









2018 Red Carpet Sparkle #1: Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI lavender colored silk chiffon sequined gown with "peek-a-boo" front--FIDM Museum







2018 Red Carpet Sparkle #2: Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI silk chiffon-backed gold sequined gown with capelet, cowl-draped neckline and open back--FIDM Museum









Red Carpet Couple--Kimberly Cornell and Nick Verreos at FIDM Museum--Much LOVE to Kimberly Cornell, Executive Producer of KTLA News and producer of the FAB FIDM Museum/90 Years of Oscars Style/NIKOLAKI Fashion segments





Happy Birthday Surprise: As a SURPRISE BONUS...we filmed the segments right before my birthday and my FIDM Museum "family",models and everyone else involved with the filming gave me a BEAUTIFUL card as well as GORGEOUS flowers!--(L to R) models Amber Lindauer, Amanda Fields Bennett; Nick Verreos, NIKOLAKI's David Paul; models Brianna Barnes and Lily Taylor--FIDM Museum

NICK APPEARANCES.....Oscars 2018: KTLA "Live From The Oscars": Behind The Scenes Photos

Oscars Style--Nick Verreos and Magan Henderson--KTLA 2018 "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show Special


Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of being a "Special Guest" for KTLA's "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show. The show began a couple of hours before the actual 2018 Academy Awards red carpet and I was honored to be a "FIDM Correspondent" discussing the fabulous Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition at my Alma Mater--the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and the college's FIDM Museum .






  Nick Verreos--KTLA "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show, FIDM Museum





Red Carpet Glamour--Nick Verreos with models in his NIKOLAKI gowns--FIDM Museum


I was also part of a wonderful "90 Years of Oscars Style" showcasing gowns from my NIKOLAKI fashion line, inspired by the NINE decades in which the Academy Awards have been around. I will do a BLOG of the Behind-the-Scenes of filming those wonderful segments later...but for now, it's all about the Behind-the-Scenes of filming for the KTLA "LIVE from The Oscars" TV Special...





Here is my PHOTO RECAP--including a fun run-in with THE Common (!):



Credentials Day:




I've Arrived!--Nick Verreos on the plastic covered red carpet of the 2018 Oscars--Dolby Theater Hollywood




Several days before the actual Oscars, I went to get my credentials. This is also a PERFECT TIME for me to "sneak in" some photos on the red carpet...well, before the plastic is removed!






Selfie Time!--Nick Verreos at the Oscars 2018, Dolby Theater Hollywood






Los Fab--(L to R) Nick Verreos and Antonella Michelena, on the Oscars 2018 red carpet, Dolby Theater Hollywood


Once there, I ran into one of my FAVORITE TV Azteca-Mexico correspondents, the beautiful and very talented Antonella Michelena from the Info7 TV Show  TV Azteca Noreste. I was so excited to see her since I had just filmed some TV segments at FIDM Museum with her, discussing the Academy Award-nominated costumes! I also spotted one of MY ALL TIME FAVORITE Supermodels, Brazilian Runway and Tom Ford/Gucci-editorial DIVA Caroline Ribeiro :





Nick Verreos with Brazilian Supermodel Caroline Ribeiro--I just about DIED, when I spotted Caroline Ribeiro on the red carpet, while I was taking photos. Naturally, I just couldn't let this moment go by without--politely--asking her if I could take a photo (OK, SEVERAL!) with her...as well as tell her how much I LOVED her! She couldn't have been sweeter.



Oscars Day:




Sequined Tuxedo Jacket...Nick Verreos on the way...





I was excited to be part of the KTLA "Live From The Oscars" coverage, discussing the Red Carpet, as well the Academy Award nominated costumes plus much more...


We filmed LIVE from the Loews Hollywood Hotel and it was A BLAST to be with KTLA's Doug Kolk and Megan Henderson:








Giving the Oscars "Dish"--Nick Verreos with Doug Kolk and Megan Henderson on the KTLA "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show, Loews Hollywood Hotel




After the "Live From The Oscars" Pre-Show, I was on with Megan during the KTLA News segments giving my 2018 Oscars Red Carpet "Best Dressed" commentary...










Glam Couple--Nick Verreos and Megan Henderson KTLA "Live From The Oscars"--Loews Hollywood Hotel




During my time filming, I was SOOOO EXCITED when I ran into the FABULOUS Tanika Ray of Extra TV...








Nick Verreos and Extra TV's Tanika Ray--Loews Hollywood Hotel






And then...I spotted COMMON!!! So...of course, I politely asked to take a photo with him :)







Nick Verreos and Common--Loews Hollywood Hotel


After we were done filming, the Loews Hollywood Hotel staff were kind enough to...




Delight us with a plate of their DELICIOUS Sweet Potato Tater Tots...#Yum


Once I was "wrapped"...I ran to the actual Academy Awards red carpet to film a fun Red Carpet TV Segment with my friend Raffi Boghosian and Dean McCarthy for The Insider Arabia and got the chance to take some photos:






Jacket Boys: (L to R) Raffi Boghosian and Nick Verreos--2018 Academy Awards Red Carpet










Tuxedo Trio--(L to R) Dean McCarthy, Raffi Boghosian and Nick Verreos--2018 Academy Awards Red Carpet







That's a Wrap! Thanks FIDM and KTLA for allowing me to be part of this year's 2018 Academy Awards TV coverage! 

RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Fashion Week: Alexander McQueen Fall 2018

Alexander McQueen Fall 2018




WHAT: Alexander McQueen Fall/Winter 2018. Creative Director Sarah Burton's latest collection for Alexander McQueen shown at Paris Fashion Week.




INSPIRATION: Burton said it was about "metamorphosis, extreme nature, soft armor"....a celebration of women's complex natures. Butterflies and bugs were also a starting point for inspiration, as seen in sleeve details and prints. 






Butterfly Style--Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





 Sequined Lady Bugs--Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Butterfly Wing Drape--Alexander McQueen Fall 2018




COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS:



Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018





Alexander McQueen Fall 2018


Click below to watch Alexander McQueen Fall/Winter 2018: