Nick Verreos's Blog, page 44

WHO WORE WHAT?......Debbie Matenopoulos in NIKOLAKI at the 44th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards

Debbie Matenopoulos attends the 44th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards in NIKOLAKI (fashion sketch of the design on the right)--Pasadena Civic Auditorium, Pasadena California


The gorgeous Debbie Matenopoulos --co-host of the Hallmark Channel's "Home & Family" TV Show--attended Sunday night's 44th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards and we were ECSTATIC when she requested to wear one of our NIKOLAKI designs. Earlier this year, she looked ABSOLUTELY STUNNING in one of our gowns at the Academy Awards so were happy to dress her for the Daytime Emmys.





Cocktail Fab: Debbie Matenopoulos in NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos/David Paul ivory silk zibeline with gold-copper paillette/sequined silk chiffon cocktail dress. The dress featured side pockets, open back, padded shoulders and below-the-knee attached skirt.










Fashion Sketch Chic: NIKOLAKI Silk Zibeline and Sequined Cocktail Dress--Sketch by Nick Verreos & David Paul





We LOVE Debbie and are always honored to have her wear our designs! XOXO

WHO WORE WHAT?.....Met Gala 2017 BEST DRESSED!

La Queen Katy: Katy Perry arrives at the Met Gala 2017 in Maison Margiela Couture Spring/Summer 2017



Tonight was the Met Gala. In case you have been living under a (Fashion) rock for a while, this is THE FASHION Prom, or the Oscars of the East Coast. The Met Gala--formally called the Costume Institute Gala and also known as the Met Ball--is an annual fundraising gala to raise funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute and signals the opening of a new exhibition...






Metropolitan Museum of Art: "Art of In-Between" Exhibition featuring the work of Rei Kawakubo and Commes des Garcons


This year's exhibition pays homage to the work of Rei Kawakubo and Commes des Garcons with "Art of In-Between" (Photo above), opening May 4th and running through September 4th. Rei Kawakubo is known for her avant-garde and ability to challenge the traditional notions of good taste, what's "fashionable" and on-trend. Kawakubo has built an empire on making people think about fashion on a different level--or more specifically in dualisms: Clothes/Not Clothes, Male/Female, Fashion/Anti-Fashion, and so on. Now, before I discuss my Best Dressed/Favorite of the night and in the event that you are still not aware of what Comme des Garcons' design philosophy is, here is an amuse-bouche:








Rei Kawakubo Comme des Garcons 


So...with that out of the way, there was a certain expectation on my part, at least, to see some FABULOUS avant-grade, or at the very least, slight nods to this or Comme des Garcons and this dualism theme of hers and the brand. And this is also how I chose my Best Dressed. Sorry but not sorry to all the Selena Gomez lovers out there but this pretty creme-colored dress designed by Coach (they do gowns now?) missed the mark:






Not My Best Dressed: Selena Gomez in Coach at the Met Gala 2017


Completely. It was nice and perfect for a black-tie upscale wedding in NYC, but the Met Gala? Nope. Sorry. I get that she's young (well, 24 ain't that young!) but yeah, I get NADA, Nothing, Zip...of a even the slightest of nods to Kawakubo or Comme des Garcons or anything UBER Haute Fashion. I want a little bit of DRAMA huney! And BTW: What is with those shoes???



OK, now that I got that off my chest...time to move on to my Best Dressed Top 15:







Katy Perry in Maison Margiela Couture Spring/Summer 2017: Now THIS is how you pay homage to Rei Kawakubo and Commes des Garcons. She may not have been wearing the genius' designs but she was doing her part by attending in another Fashion Bad Girl--I mean boy--John Galliano and his design for Maison Margiela Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 collection.






Maison Margiela Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 by John Galliano


I loved this red tulle, sequined and crinoline concoction. It featured one of Kawakubo's favorite colors: scarlet red. And played on the notion of Fashion/Not Fashion, Soft/Hard, Romantic/Fierce, avant-garde, as well as a "Blood Bride" perhaps. I love when fashion makes one think, stop, pause, cause conversation, and Comme des Garcons always does and so does this. Thank you Katy: You nailed it huney!







Zendaya in Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2015: Zendaya showed up to the Met Gala 2017 to slay it. And she did. I loved this over-the-top printed silk SUPER ballgown. The gown was from Dolce & Gabban Alta Moda Fall/Winter 2015 collection. It's not "vintage" but it wasn't recent and yes, if one were to order this, it would set you back $100,000+...





I loved the romantic edge with the extreme fabulousity that Rei Kawakubo would probably admire. Just for the hair alone, I bow to her (and her stylists!) huney!







Rihanna in Comme des Garcons Fall/Winter 2016--Three Words: Go On Rihanna! I know that this is a bit cray-cray but HELLO! Newsflash: It's an homage to Comme de sGracons kids! Educate yourselves! Miss Rihanna wore this volant-filled look straight from the runways and the Comme des Garcons Fall/Winter 2016 collection shown a year ago. Naturally, she had to add her own twist and style it with those Diva leg-strapped heels. Thank you Rihanna for giving me SOMETHING and for wearing Comme des Garcons to a Comme des Garcons Met Gala! Not sure how she sat down to eat...or just sat down period but hey, sometimes one must suffer for fashion.











Lily Collins in Giambattista Valli Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2016: I loved this look on Lily Collins. She wore a strapless ballgown from Giambattista Valli Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2016. The gown is probably a $100,000 design exquisitely hand-made of tulle, duchesse silk satin and hand applied crystals. It's sweet and perfect for a Billionaire Heiress Sweet Sixteen bash but Lily made it fresh, more modern with that cropped black wig, honoring Rei Kawakubo's iconic hairstyle. Take a lesson Selena Gomez on how to make pretty just a little off-putting and more Comme des Garcon-ish.









 Solange Knowles in Thom Browne Fall/Winter 2017: I know that many people out there will think "Oh No Nick!" but YASSSSSSSSS!!!! I thank Solange for GIVING ME! Thank goodness this wasn't a basic creme colored evening dress. That's not what the Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons Met Gala 2017 is about darlings! Solange got it! Loved this black puffy jacket with train ensemble. In case you didn't read a recent WWD Trend Alert article HERE, it's all about the Puffy Jacket huney! And those shoes were EVERYTHING!!!







Lily Aldridge in Ralph Lauren Custom: Model Lily gave her best avant-garde Fashion Diva look at the Met Gala 2017 with this white silk jersey gown with skin-revealing peek-a-boos from---of all brands--Ralph Lauren! Yes, kids, RAPLH LAUREN! This has NOTHING to do with Ralph Lauren but I am willing to give it a pass only because she looked AMAZING! That's why I put her in my Best Dressed Top 15. But seriously, she could have just said this was by "John Smith of Pocoima" and I would have believed that more than RALPH LAUREN! #JustSaying







Tracee Ellis Ross in Comme des Garcons: I LOVED this bold blue coat on Tracee Ellis Ross! It was dramatic, fashionable and OMG: It was from Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons! I admired the simple cocooning-like effect and what a fabulous statement it made. Miss Tracee's momma done taught her right in terms of simple drama and CHIC!







Lily-Rose Depp in Chanel: I absolutely loved this bubblegum pink strapless ballgown on Lily-Rose Depp. The design is from Chanel. The drop-waist design seems simple and classic and yet, there is the added detail of the sequined roses (for Lily-Rose perhaps?) and raw hem. Her makeup (those fab cat-eyes!) and hair were GORGEOUS! One could argue and say "well, what does bubblegum pink and a pretty ballgown have to do with Comme des Garcons?". Not much, but...she certainly created a striking image and I'm sure Rei would approve of that!







Rose Byrne in Ralph Lauren Custom: Once again, I am TOTALLY at a loss at what this plunging neckline tulle ballgown has to do with Ralph Lauren. But, I still give Rose and the fashion house of Ralph Lauren credit for this look. She looked beautiful and she did wear the color of the night: Comme des Garcons red. It was definitely a statement...and a good one!







Zoe Kravitz in Oscar de la Renta: Zoe Kravitz wore this Millenial Pink gown from Monse designers Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. The duchesse silk satin gown featured an overcape and bust accented with black ruffled embellishments. She looked regal and supremely chic. While this might have been a better outfit for a Balenciaga Gala Tribute, I still put her in my Top 15 Best Dressed just because she gave me something! And something dramatic and quite fabulous.





Blake Lively in Atelier Versace: Blake Lively gave everyone a serving of gold-and-feathered couture in this golden and blue feather gown from Atelier Versace. The hand-made $100,000+ costing gown (Blake got it for free) looked amazing on her and made her a Stand-out at the Met Gala 2017 red carpet.







Elle Fanning in in Miu Miu: Elle Fanning looked ethereal, gorgeous and the vision of a Romance Princess in this strapless baby blue silk chiffon gathered Empire-cut gown from Miu Miu. Now, I don't know what this design and style has to do with the "Prada Junior" line of Miu Miu but once again, I guess I have to suspend fashion belief. Irregardless of this, I still included Fanning in my Top 15 Best Dressed. The gown was GORGEOUS, dramatic and she looked incredible. Would Rei Kawakubo approve of such prettiness and Romanticism? Probably not. But at least, she made a Gown Statement!









Aymeline Valade in Marni: French model Aymeline Valade looked INCREDIBLE in this blue satin and gold sequined suit from the Italian fashion house of Marni and its incoming designer Francesco Risso. This suit was GOOOOOORGEOUS! If you're going to wear a suit to the Met Gala, this is it!






Amy Fine Collins in Thom Browne: Vanity Fair writer Amy Fine Collins looked so super chic, I couldn't miss placing her in my Top 15 Best Dressed of the 2017 Met Gala. I loved this "Victor/Victoria" tuxedo-meets-sequined gown from Thom Browne; it blended that dualism context of Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons to a "T"! 




Finally...



Dakota Johnson in Gucci Custom: Dakota Johnson wore this black silk gown with ruffed detail from Gucci/Alessandro Michele. Some say this was a bit "Gothic" but I actually think it was quite Romantic and beautiful but yet still a but directional to possibly satisfy La Kawakubo! 




So there you have it: My Top 15 Best Dressed of the 2017 Met Gala! Who were YOUR favorites??

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Binibining Pilipinas 2017 Finals Top 15 BEST EVENING GOWNS!

The Most Beautiful: The Top Queens at Binibining Pilipinas 2017--Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City Philippines

(All Photos courtesy of Binibining Pilipinas Facebook)


Last night was the Finals of the 54th edition of Binibining Pilipinas , the premier Philippines Beauty Pageant which crowns the ladies who will represent the country in the Miss Universe, Miss International, Miss Supranational, Miss Grand International, Miss Intercontinental and Miss Globe. In one of my most recent posts here on my "Sashes and Tiaras" BLOG, I discussed the FABULOUS National Costumes and MY FAVORITES. Now, it's time to talk about the Final Night EVENING GOWNS! But before I discuss the gowns, let's give a shout-out to the Winner of Binibining Pilipinas 2017, Contestant #19, Rachel Louise Peters:







La Rachel: The new Binibining Pilipinas 2017 won the title of Miss Universe Philippines 2017 and will get to represent her nation in the 2017 Miss Universe pageant...wherever and whenever that will happen. Rachel is not new to the pageant scene and actually competed in Miss World Philippines 2014 pageant where she ended up with 5th place or the  "4th Princess" title. This year, she bagged the top crown at the competing Binibinibg Pilipinas pageant and got the top crown!







Fil-Brit: Rachel grew up in Camarines Sur, a province in the Bicol Region in Luzon in the Philippines and is part British and part Filipina. She is 24 years old and stands 5' 9" (175 M), one of the tallest contestants at this year's Binibining Pilipinas pageant.






Beautiful Costume: Here is Rachel in her gorgeous white "National Costume"/Terno 


OK...now time to discuss my Top 15 Favorite Evening Gowns:












Satins, Sequins and Applique: Contestants in the 2017 Binibining Pilipinas Beauty Pageant during the Long Gown Competition--Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City Philippines




There were 40 total contestants in the Binibining Pilipinas 2017 Beauty Pageant and in a new format, only 25 of those got to continue on to compete in Swimsuit as well as Evening Gown. Out of those 25, here are my Top 15 Favorite Gowns:







No. 1:







Contestant #39 Elizabeth Clenci: This was--by far!--my FAVORITE gown of the Top 25 contestants. I thought this ivory one shoulder column gown was sleek, chic and super-fabulous! The look was perfect enough for the red carpet of a top awards show and so not "Pageant Betty". It was refreshing to not see a sequined/over-applique'ed gown in the pageant; it was almost like a breath of fresh (Gown) air! She also was vibing a little bit of Minorka Mercado "Miss Venezuela" at the "Miss Universe 1994" with this look. Classy and supremely elegant!



No. 2:



Contestant #32 Charmaine Marie Francisco Elima: Charmaine was giving me some Pia Wurtzbach aristocratic air with this white one shoulder gown design. It was my 2nd favorite design of the night. The gown which featured white satin with silver sequins and a dramatic one-shoulder sleeve cape looked beautiful and fit her perfectly. She blended enough Haute fashion with red carpet with a crystal dash of pageant fab! When I saw her, all I wanted to say was "You GO GIRL!".





No. 3:



Contestant #15 Maria de Leon: Maria won the title of "Miss International Philippines" and many thought she might take it all! Winning that "Miss International Philippines" crown is a wonderful accomplishment nevertheless. Now, in terms of her gown, it was gorgeous! I loved the silhouette, the fit, the raspberry color...but more importantly, the pleated and gathered details were EXTRAORDINARY! Who needs sequins and applique when that's on your gown darlings!



No. 4:



Contestant #10 Jehza Mae Huelar: I loved this white halter-style gown on Jehza. The dress featured sequins and flower appliques that reminded me of a Chanel Haute Couture gown that would cost about $100,000! I also really liked how she styled her hair in such a modern chic slicked-back manner. If there was any criticism (and you KNOW what that is!), it would be those Stripper Platform Heels! Soooooo TACKY!!! Huneeeey!!!! WHY??????????????????? A pair of silver strappy heels would have been perfect! Ayyyyyy Dios Mio!!!  



No. 5:





Contestant #18 Nelda Ibe: This red sequins over a nude tulle illusion background gown was very pretty. I loved the delicate coral-like applique and the fit was superb. The gown itself was not extraordinary in terms of design but here., it really was all about the fabric and the manner in which she carried herself.



No. 6:



Contestant #22 Chanel Olive Thomas: Chanel wore this strapless bubblegum pink silk Dupioni gown, and I liked it! At first, I did think it was a bit "Typical Pageant Gal" but as my eyes focused, I appreciated the fit, the luxe fabrication and the superb shape. Chanel also carried it off perfectly with her above-it-all look and on-point hair and accessories.



No. 7:



Contestant #28 Juliana Kapeundl: Juliana wore this ivory column shaped gown which I loved for its simplicity, great fit and non-pageant-like krazeeness! I thought the unique applique was very Jean Paul Gaultier-meets-Givenchy Haute Couture and the design made Juliana look very elegant and red carpet perfect. If only she didn't wear those TACKY white platform pumps! Seriously! These gals need to just wear non-platform strappy heels ASAP! No one will judge them and think they are too short!! Just wear the proper shoes ladies! PLEASE!



No. 8:



Contestant #16 Larah Grace Lacap: Great gown. Wrong shoes. I'll start with the gown: I loved this hunter green sequin-and-tulle mermaid-shaped design. I also really liked the sleeve detail and how she styled herself in terms of her elegant hair and simple earrings. But...THOSE tacky nude platform pumps!!! I want to SCREAM!!! Oh well, the gown was still pretty enough to make my Top 15 list.



No. 9:



Contestant #19 Rachel Peters: The eventual "Miss Universe Philippines" winner, Rachel Louise Peters, wore this reddish/orange-colored gown. I admit that the color was a bit of a "Oh Dear!" but she sold it to me during her catwalk. Yes, it was a bit "Pageant Betty" with the super-high side slit and the sequins-and-chiffon (it was a bit "Figure Skating Costume"-like!), but, there were details in the gown (the top bust section) and the way Rachel carried it off that pushed her into my Top 15 Favorite gowns.





No. 10:



Contestant #9 Vanessa Saliba: I wanted to include this emerald green ballgown/overskirt because it was one of the best representations of this silhouette and style. It was a bit "Pageant Queen" but it was done in an elegant and very regal way. I liked the color and the fit was nice. The sequin work was also pretty fabulous. I was also very happy she didn't do a bouffant up-do as her hairstyle but instead opted for the modern slicked back look. She did look quite beautiful.



No. 11:





Contestant #13 Sirene Sutton: Super-Mestiza model/pageant contestant Sirene Sutton wore this purple striped gown featuring a high side-front slit and flowy design. She worked it OVERTIME on the catwalk, letting the skirt flow out creating a dramatic stance. She looked modern and model-like in this. While the design and gown itself wasn't so out-of-this-world, she did work it! For that, Sirene--and her gown--belong in my Top 15. Too bad she couldn't really succeed in the Q&A portion! Beauty sometimes does need the brains in a Beauty Pageant to make it all complete. Poor thang. #JustSaying



No. 12:



Contestant #26 Ruffa Nava: Making my Top 15 list and coming in at the 12th spot is Ruffa Nava in this pink halter gown. The dress featured a golden "print" and chiffon side-to-back cape. It was dramatic, pretty and enough to put her in my Top 15. Once again, I wasn't a fan of those tacky nude platform pumps with this but it looks as if these ladies did not have a choice. Overall, she looked classy, elegant and pageant fab!



No. 13:



Contestant #7 Jennyline Malpaya: Jennyline wore this chartreuse-colored caped gown for the "Long Gown" Competition of the 2017 Binibining Pilipians Beauty Pageant. I liked the shocking neon-like color and the dramatic cape back design was a showstopper but yes, it was A LOT (I could just hear "Project Runway"'s Nina Garcia giving a stink face to this for sure! But I liked the "Drag Queen" fabulousity of it all that made me put her here in my Top 15!



No. 14:





Contestant #20 Christagale Borja: I was seriously on the fence with placing Christagale's blue gown in my Top 15 list but...I looked a little bit closer to the sequined applique details of the dress and that is what won me over. I wasn't a fan of the 1990's-like neck piece and Figure Skating Costume nude illusion back piece but I did appreciate the details of the fabric and well-fitting gown.



Lastly...

No. 15:





Contestant #31 Katarina Rodriguez: I loved Katarina's jewel blue color and the fan-pleated detail of her gown; it had hints of vintage "Miss Venezuela" Guy Meliet-like designs and yes, I appreciated that. I also thought the fit was nice--except for the odd sweetheart neckline/bust buckling. But overall, it was good enough to make my Top 15!










CONGRATULATIONS to the newly crowned Binibining Pilipinas 2017--Rachel Peters "Miss Universe Philippines 2017"! Wishing you the best at "Miss Universe 2017"!!! (PS: What the HECK is last year's "Miss Universe Philippines" Maxine Medina (right) wearing???)

WHO WORE WHAT?.....2017 Latin Billboard Awards: Plunging Cha-Chas, Muy Bueno & Oh Oh!

Flawless: Jennifer Lopez arrives at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards--University of Miami Watsco Center, Coral Gales Florida


Last night were the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards, which took place in the Miami area at the University of Miami Watsco center in Coral Gables and were televised on Telemundo. This is one of the biggest nights in music awards and therefore the Latino stars were out in their finest red carpet couture. In this edition of my "Who Wore What?" blog, I will discuss my "Best Dressed" plus some trends including "Sequined Queens", Ballgown Ladies", and yes, the dreaded "Uh NOOOOO/Ayyyy Mija!". But of course, I have to begin with The Most A-List of all A-List stars that was at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards and that was Miss J Lo.





Jennifer Lopez: You just know that any time La Lopez is going to walk a red carpet and especially a high profile one like this one, she is going to SHUT IT DOWN. And Si...she did! I swear this woman was trained by a pack of Drag Queens. And the most fabulous ones at that! Her poses, her Do You Wanna Have S*x With Me" Looks...the outfits! The word DIVA doesn't even begin to describe her. Here, she did not disappoint, walking the red carpet in a black sequined see-through gown from British designer Julien Macdonald and his Fall/Winter 2017 collection.






Julien Macdonald Fall/Winter 2017


The gown featured a plunging neckline (of course!), VERY revealing side cut-out's, an open back plus, if that wasn't enough, a super high center front slit. Oh, and for "modesty", there were sleeves. She looked AMAZING. Now, while on any other actress or singer, this would go into the realm of "Hoochie/Chonchee Land", somehow, Jennifer Lopez pulls it off and put every other female attending the event to red carpet shame. And in case you were curious at what the back looked like, well kids, here it is:






Sexy-Licious: Jennifer Lopez at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards red carpet--University of Miami Watsco Center, Coral Gables Florida


Jennifer also did an outfit change (of course!) and donned this silver-and-gold creation during the show:



A LOTTTTA Plunging: This gown was also a design from Julien Macdonald Fall/Winter2017 collection, and featured similar side-cut-out's, waistband and center front slit as her red carpet look, but yet, this one was even more revealing. Oh, and it was in silver/gold sequins. I have to admit that I liked the black gown much better. I just think that the front was TOO opened for her, and especially, her "sistahs". It also looked a bit too tight on her.



Now, besides JLo in the black Julien Macdonald sequined gown that she wore on the red carpet, I have a couple of other "Best Dressed" Muchachas...My other Best Dressed gals were:



Daniela Botero: Colombian beauty Daniela Botero wore this silver strapless dress from Venezuelan-born and Paris-based designer Oscar Carvallo. I thought she was one of the BEST DRESSED of the night. I loved this silver "bandage"-like dress; it was chic, modern, not too revealing, great length and fit her perfectly. I also loved her hair and makeup. Muy bien!







Kate Del Castillo: Mexican Telenovela DIVA Kate Del Castillo wore one of my other favorite looks of the night in this one shoulder gown from Lebanese designer Nicolas Jebran and his Fall/Winter 2017 collection. I thought Kate looked like a true red carpet movie star--or Telenovela/TV star! The gown was modern, elegant and runway fab! I also thought her super chic slicked hair and sultry makeup were on-point! Muy, muy bien!



And now, let's discuss some of the Trends and the Ayyy Mija's, starting with...

The Plunging Cha-Cha's------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Jennifer Lopez: It goes without saying (even though here I am saying it!), J Lo was the Queen of Plunging at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards--both on the red carpet and onstage. Since I have already discussed her, it's time to talk about the other ladies who were chest happy--for good or bad. (good for the straight boys I guess!).





Jackie Cruz: "Orange Is The New Black" actress who plays "Flaca", Jackie Cruz wore this black tuxedo-inspired gown. I liked the gown. I thought it was interesting and a nice modern twist on "Le Smoking" and loved the side draped skirt and strong shoulders but...I just think the boobies were TOO MUCCCCHIE. I'm sure there are others who would disagree but, they were distracting. I LOVED everything else--the gown, the design, her shoes, her hair and makeup--it was just the TOO MUCHIE Cha-Cha's.





Aracely Arambula: Mexican actress and former partner of Mexican music icon Luis Miguel wore this rose-embellished black gown which had a plunging neckline, at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards red carpet. The gown fit beautifully and she looked sultry and sexy. I liked this gown and this look on her. It wasn't too plunging and the "sistahs" weren't too "out there" (Gracias a Dios!).





Patrica Zavala: Venezuelan actress and E! Entertainment Latino host of "Coffee Break", gown from Kuwaiti fashion brand La Bourjoisie, famous for dressing Britney Spears and many other A-List celebs. I liked this silver sequined gown. It had the peek-a-boo cut-out's (like J Lo's) and waistband detail as well as nude illusion panels. I also liked that the plunging neckline opening wasn't too tasteless (like Jackie Cruz'). Patricia looked like a "Miss Universe" winner in this gown! It was Pageant Fab plus did the job for the red carpet.







Natti Natasha: Dominican reggaeton/Latin pop singer Natti Natasha wore this silver and blue paillette-sequined gown from NY-based bridal and cocktail brand THEIA Couture. The gown didn't necessarily have a "plunging neckline" but...Natti's mijas were on display for sure in this dress. I liked the dress and especially the original swirl-like sequined detail. I also liked her center-part hairstyle but even though this dress wasn't too revealing, I just felt she was on the verge of "Ayy Mija" with her boobie-licious neckline.





Chiquis Rivera: Singer and TV personality--and eldest daughter of Jenni Rivera--wore this blue-violet mermaid-shaped gown by Bao Tranchi--famous for her bodysuits. I bow down to Chiquis because I thought she looked AMAZING!! I loved this gown on her and thought it really made her look like a Red Carpet Goddess! Bravo Miss Chiquis and Bravo Bao Tranchi!





Eva Longoria: Eva wore this white caped-back jumpsuit from Italian designer Elisabetta Franchi and her Spring/Summer 2017 collection. The jumpsuit--which looks more like a jacket and pants--featured a plunging neckline, fitted midriff and lovely shawl collar. I liked this on Eva but I just felt the pants were way too long; I just wanted to go in there and take about 2-3" off the hem. This is sloppy work on the part of the stylist and/or tailor.



The Sequin Queens-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Ximena Duque: Colombian actress and model Ximena Duque wore this golden sequined gown from NY-based Custom Wedding and Evening Gown designer Lucia Rodriguez. I thought she looked quite beautiful. The gown itself was simple in its silhouette and design but it's all about that fabric; STUNNING! I also loved the perfect fit and length as well as modern hairstyle. Thank goodness she didn't do a "Pageant Betty" bun or something to that effect because then she really would have looked like a Miss Colombia contestant during the evening gown competition.





Alexandra Pomales: Actress/TV Host/Model Alexandra Pomales wore this pink sequined dress from Miami-based fashion brand Evelli by Susan Panter. I liked this gown and style on Alexandra. The gown fit beautifully and I liked the simple tank  shape with the strappy center front neckline accents. I was a bit surprised by the choice of those turquoise (or are they green?) hoop-y earrings but I will cut her some red carpet slack. Next time: Lose those earrings mija!





Sofia Reyes: Mexican singer-songwriter/actress wore this baby blue tulle and lace/sequined applique gown at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards Red Carpet. It was an OK gown but honestly, it was just a bit too "Figure Skating Costume" (and I LOVE figure skating costumes!). It just looked like "Marchesa on a Budget". But I still thought she looked pretty and I do love that kooky top-knot bun.





Rosina Grosso: Telemundo and Yahoo Sports host Rosina Grosso walked the red carpet in this emerald green sequin-and-tulle gown by Miami-based Andrea Tankovitz. It was A LOT of gown. Especially for the Latin Billboard Awards. I can see this if you are a contestant in the "Miss Universe"  or "Miss Venezuela" pageant but in the Latin Billboard Awards? Not so mucheeey. It was just a lot.





Jessica Carrillo: Telemundo "Al Rojo Vivo" reporter Jessica Carillo wore this ivory sequined applique gown from Dominican designer Giannina Azar. While I appreciated the sequined detail, this looked aged Jessica and it was just too Pageant Betty for her. Especially for a "hip" and "cool" event such as the Latin Billboard Awards. It's a pretty dress but not for this event. She should have saved this for reporting on the next "Miss Universe" pageant. Bad stylist advice.





Kathy K: Singer Kathy K. wore this sequined sheath halter-neck column dress. I liked the dress in its simplicity and design. The only complaint would be the too-dark eyebrows and too-heavy makeup. Otherwise, her dress was OK!









Maria Leon: Actress/singer Maria Leon wore this golden/blush colored sequined gown from Kuwait-based fashion brand, Lioness Couture. This was a nice gown and it fit her beautifully--and I did love her 40's-like swept hairdo--but once again, I thought a plunging neckline, slit-front sequined gown--might have been TOO MUCHEEEY for the Latin Billboard Awards. Once again, this might have been better suited for a "Miss Colombia" or "Miss Panama" during the "Miss Universe" Evening Gown competition. Or the Golden Globes!





Miriam Isa: E! News  Latino Correspondent Miriam Isa wore this strawberry-colored sequined gown from Kuwaiti fashion brand Lioness Couture (same as Maria Leon before her). I liked the dress and simple silhouette. Nothing wrong with the dress but for the Latin Awards Show, a right-below-the-knee version might have been more chic!



The Ballgown Gals--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Becky G: Singer/songwriter and "Power Ranger" actress Becky G wore this rust-colored ballgown at last night's 2017 Latin Billboard Awards red carpet. She looked pretty. I loved her bob-like hairstyle and sweet, clean makeup. In terms of the gown, it was OK; there was nothing extraordinary about it, but I liked the color and fit; I just wasn't a fan of the illusion center front panel. That just screamed "Prom & Pageant".







Angelica Celaya: Don't know who Angelica Celaya is but MIJAAAA, now I want to!!! First off, she looked like a "Mad Men"/Hollywood Glamour Diva in her 50's/60's-like look, silhouette and Rita Hayworth-like hairstyle! The beautiful actress was wearing this strapless ballgown from Venezuelan designer Nicolas Felizola. The gown was EXQUISITE! I loved the black and white Hounds-tooth-like tweed fabrication and the side pockets! If there was any critique, it was just the fit of the top bustier section; I just wanted to pull the cups in tighter! Otherwise, she looked as if she was "serving" her "Sistah's" up to the highest bidder!





Finally...Uh NO/Ayyy Mijas--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


 

Danna Paola: Singer/actress Danna Paola wore this nude iridescent organza with flower detail dress from Mexican brand Lila Masaryk. She looked a MESS. I get where she was going with this--the see-through effect; the undergarments showing; the Dolce & Gabbana-like flower applique...but it was just all so 2014! Even Pageant girls have moved on from this look. Not cute, just kind of tacky-licious.






Salice Rose: Instagram and YouTube Social Media Star Salice Rose wore this red velvet dress to the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards. Now, I have to admit that I must be an old person because I had NO IDEA of who Salice was and the fact that she has 5.2 MILLION Instagram followers! First: Good for her. But, this red dress outfit was a Chonchee Mess, no matter how many followers she has! The dress was too short, the black platform pumps were so 2002, and the blue nail polish was Las Vegas Stripper tacky. She looks like a sweet girl and again, I bow down to her for being a Social Media Star but maybe she should hire a stylist with all that "Social Media Influencer" money to style her in a more updated classy way.



Finally...







Monique "Momo" Gonzalez: Singer "Momo" walked the red carpet in this dress by  Miami-based designer Andrea Tankovitz (who somehow also created the sequined emerald green gown worn by Rosina Grosso!). I was just perplexed by this look. I get the sort of Valentino-like writing-on-a-gown thing but, then this style had these super-high tacky slits (not just one but TWO!) and then, the plunging V-neck...it was just tacky. On a good note: I thought her hair and makeup was nice--she looked sexy good! And Gracias a Dios she styled it with nude strappy heels. And the back view wasn't too bad! But the overall front view was something that would bring "Project Runway" judge Nina Garcia to tears. Enough said. Monique is so beautiful and so sexy on her own, there is no need to push it to this "Uh Oh" level.

FASHION SCHOOL WITH NICK.....NEW VIDEO: How To Draw a FASHION Croquis!

Fashion Poses--"Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube How Ton Draw a Fashion Croquis






In my latest "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube Video....I show you guys How To Draw A FASHIOOOOON Croquis! Yes, darlings, it's time to "bump it up" when it comes to your sketching and croquis. In my previous videos, I showed you how to create a Flat Sketch Croquis so this time, I'm adding a little more movement and dimension to make your FASHION SKETCHING more...FASHIOOOOOON!!!






Nick Verreos--"Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube "How To Draw a Fashion Croquis"


In the video, I show you how to create your very own "Fashion Croquis", using the same 9-head principles as the Flat Sketch Croquis Video but...with some adjustments...It will take your fashion illustrations to a more professional/designer level:






From Croquis to...Couture Jumpsuit--Watch my "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube Video "How To Draw a Fashion Croquis" to find out how YOU can do it too!


Click below to watch Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Video "How To Draw a Fashion Croquis":

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Binibining Pilipinas/Miss Universe Philippines 2017 National Costumes My Top 15!

It's a big week in the FABULOUS Filipino Pageant World...Indeed this Sunday April 30th will mark the Grand Coronation Night--or Finals--of the 54th edition of Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant. The winner of 2017 Binibining Pilipinas will be the next representative in the Miss Universe 2017 pageant and the finalists will also go on to represent the Philippines in Miss International, Miss Intercontinental, Miss Supranational, Miss Grand International, as well as several other important international beauty pageants.






Tribal, Terno and Red Carpet Runway Couture: Contestants in the 2017 Binibining Pilipnas 2017 Beauty Pageant in their National Costumes


This past Monday, the very important National Costume Competition was held, where all the 40 beautiful contestants vying for the top crown modeled their very best in Filipino National Costume style in categories including Red Carpet Showstoppers, Bridal Fantasies, Flore de Mayo Fashions, Traditional Costumes, and Filipiniana Fantasies. The Costume Couture showcased the creativity of veteran as well as young up-and-coming Filipino designers from all over the country. During Monday's "National Costume Competition", the Top 10 costume designs were chosen by a panel of judges and the winner will be announced on the Final Grand Coronation Night...but naturally, I wanted to offer MY TOP 15! So...here are MY TOP BEST NATIONAL COSTUMES of Binibining Pilipinas 2017:



All photos courtesy of Binibing Pilipinas Facebook and Photographer Raymond Saldaña



No. 1:





Contestant #32 Charmaine Elima: Charmaine is wearing my TOP FAVORITE design in these National Costumes of Binibinig Pilipinas 2017 National Costumes Competition. The “La Reina Emperatiz” creation is from designer Pablo Galicia Mendez III and it is just EXQUISTE, fabulous and costume-exciting! The entire look is giving me FASHION Couture, Runway Fab, as well as being National Costume spectacular. She looks like a Catholic Virgin/Icon and Filipina Diva...all in one!



No. 2:



Contestant #15 Maria Angelica de Leon: de Leon is wearing this Filipiniana Terno design from Cary Santiago. The nude/blush with white applique design is beautiful, elegant and impacting. I love the headdress and the fans. It may be simple (for Binibining Pilipinas Pageant standards) but...it was chic and runway fab and still had that "National Costume" essence.



No. 3:





Contestant #28 Juliana Kapeundl: Juliana's ballgown design was created by Chico Estiva and I loved it. It was very "Carnival Queen" with elements of a Dior gown form the early 50's. I liked the silver organza with white scroll-like applique as well as the exaggerated peplum and neck/collar design.



No. 4:





Contestant #4 Jessica Ramirez: Jessica's blush-pink design was my No. 4 of top favorite National Costumes. I thought this Terno was elegant, Couture-like in its fabrication and simple details and I especially liked the gold sequined embellishments. She looked like the girlfriend--or wife--of a VERY RICH--Filipino businessman (or Ambassador)...who lived in Switzerland!



 No. 5:





Contestant #9 Vanessa Saliba: This silver mermaid-style Terno costume was one of the best. In fact, I put her in my Top Five! The amount of technical, pattern and design work alone...should give this design an award! I loved the fit, the silhouette and the layers upon layers of iridescent organza volants/ruffles on the gown-skirt. From head to toe, this was pretty stunning!



No. 6:





Contestant #16 Larah Grace Lacap: Larah Grace is wearing a very traditional design featuring a pañuelo (or scarf/shawl in English) by Adriano Samar. I loved this costume design because it reminded me of those old vintage photos of gorgeous Filipina beauties from the 30's/40's--if not earlier. The entire costume was Vintage Couture but still fresh and fab.





No. 7:





Contestant #31 Katarina Sonja Rodriguez: Katarina wore this design by Filipino wedding gown designer-of-the-moment Francis Libiran. This gown featured a blush/nude organza base with exquisite emerald blue sequined applique.  I LOVED the cascade back overskirt as well as Haute Couture-like embellishment/trim. This was like if an early 1980's Miss Venezuela Guy Meliet-designed Gown ...married a Chanel Couture gown. Simply Gorgeous!



No. 8:





Contestant #22 Chanel Olive Thomas: Chanel is one of the only designs I included which would fall into the "Indigenous/Tribal"-like Category (since most of the ones I chose were more Traditional Ternos). I thought this Muslim-inspired Edwin Uy design was quite impacting. I loved the gold and red coloring and fabrication in this beautiful Maranao princess costume. Besides the main gown, the accessories--headdress and fans--were FANTASTIC! Chanel truly was a Marano DIVA!



No. 9:



Contestant #10 Jehza Mae Huelar: Jehza was very impacting in this Erich Miñoza mascota design, inspired by the Philippine eagle. I loved the entire design and especially how the pañuelo around her shoulders/arms mimicked the wings of an eagle. The headdress symbolized the head of the eagle and notice the feather-like applique on the edges of the pañuelo. I just wished that same feather-like accent would have been carried onto the lower portion of the gown. 



No. 11:



Contestant #39 Elizabeth Durado Clenci: This design was in the "Bridal Fantasies" category. And it was one of my top favorites of that group. I thought it was modern, runway-fab and on-trend. I liked the 40's-like peplum silhouette as well as incorporation of the beaded Terno "butterfly" sleeves and bodice. The tulle cape and up-do hairstyle added the right amount of stage drama.



No. 11:



Contestant #40 Kristel Guelos: Simple, elegant, chic. I liked this golden/nude colored gown worn by Kristel. The sequined applique detail was beautiful and I loved the fit as well as back overskirt. The golden crown/headdress was also quite regal.



No. 12:







Contestant #12 Angelique Celine De Leon: I swear it was a complete accident that Contestant #12 ended up in my twelfth spot for Top 15 Favorite National Costumes. I thought this was a GORGEOUS design--worthy of a runway show, as well as red carpet--and even a wedding. Oh, and yes, it was a very nice Filipino National Costume! This Val Taguba design was perfect enough to be reproduced for a Binibining Pilipinas Barbie Doll!



No. 13:





Contestant #17 Camille Manalo: This design combined the costume with a bit of religious campiness and even, a little bit of fashion! I liked the dramatic reveal of the Patron Saint Our Lady of Candelabria and the delicate lace applique trim and pañuelo-accented ballgown design. The "Virgin"-like headdress/crown was quite exquisite as well!



No. 14:



Contestant #26 Ruffa Nava: John Cliff designed this gown which featured a mermaid-like silhouette and also resembled a Phoenix rising from the ashes...of Terno Fabulousness! I loved the ombre-like sequin work that went from black to fire red at the bottom. It was very Spanish Sevillana and yet still Filipiniana Terno Queen-like. If there was any criticism, it wold be the odd canoe-shaped bottom details. I almost wanted to put rolls of sushi...or lumpia in them---and serve them as Gown Couture appetizers!



Finally...No. 15:





Contestant #13 Sirene Sutton: First of all: Sirene is ESSSSTUNNEEEENG!!!! Hello! OK, now that I have gotten that of the way, it's time to discuss her "National Costume". It was "original to say the least. And I liked it enough to place her as my No. 15 in my Top 15! Designer Roland Alzete created this one shoulder asymmetrical design and it was just right for this supermodel beauty. In all honesty, I loved the "Official Portrait" (lower photo above) more than how she showed it on the National Costume Competition runway. I also wasn't really a fan of her shoes. But...I loved the sequin fish-and-angels watercolor illustrations in the gown and I appreciated how this designer stepped out of the "National Costume" design box.







Which Binibining Pilipinas 2017 National Costumes were YOUR favorites??? Let me know by leaving your comments here after my blog!

FIDM....FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala: The Recap!

Atmosphere--FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala--Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo by Benjamin Shmikler/ABImages




Last week was  FIDM DEBUT 2017  Week and I had the honor and pleasure of hosting all the runway shows. You can read my BLOGS on Thursday and Friday night's events HERE. To cap off the DEBUT festivities, last Saturday night was the "fancy" DEBUT: Industry glitterati, VIP guests, notable press and designers are invited to the black-tie event in which dinner and dessert are served while the fabulous fashion show highlighting the graduating student's designs in the  Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM's  Advanced Programs of Fashion Design, Theatre Costume, as well as Interior and Textile Design students.





Black Tie Pair: NIKOLAKI designers Nick Verreos and David Paul--FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala, Barker Hangar Santa Monica




Here is a PHOTO RECAP of the fabulous night:




Presenting DEBUT!--Nick Verreos onstage at FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of Benjamin Shmikler/ABImages





  LA Fashion Fab: (L to R) Designer Kevan Hall, Nick Verreos, Debbie Hall and Octavius Terry-Sims--FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of Benjamin Shmikler/ABImages





  Fashion Design Program Director Mary Stephens and FIDM President Tonian Hohberg--FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of Benjamin Shmikler/ABImages









  Nick and His Boys--Backstage with my "Chairing Styles" boys--they helped in getting the "Chairing Styles" chairs (lower photo above) up and down from the stage during the show--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Lower photo courtesy of David Paul





Serious or Smile: Nick Verreos onstage--One of the gorgeous models who was modeling in the FIDM DEBUT show--Amber Lindauer--asked to take photos of me before the show so...naturally, I was happy to...and I LOVED the pics!--FIDM DEBUT 2017 LA Fashion Gala, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photos courtesy of Amber Lindauer


Advanced Program in Theatre Costume Design Costumes:












The theme was "Beat" and it included costumes inspired by many musical movies such as "Grease", "Footloose" and "La Bamba" to name a few--FIDM DEBUT 2017, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

All Photos courtesy of David Paul




DEBUT 2017 Collection Pics--All Photos courtesy of Benjamin Shmikler/ABImages:




  Designs by Dionard Campman--FIDM DEBUT 2017





  Designs by Nancy Hennessey--FIDM DEBUT 2017





Design by Jasmine "Yasi" Sakak--FIDM DEBUT 2017









  Design by Lilit Markosyan--FIDM DEBUT 2017









  FIDM Advanced Fashion Design Program Graduate Makham Rayutkhaki and her models/designs--FIDM DEBUT 2017





  Design by Peivand Mirzaie--FIDM DEBUT 2017





  Design by Zara Marchand--FIDM DEBUT 2017





  Childrens Design by Eva Yang--FIDM DEBUT 2017





That's A Wrap--A HUGE THANK YOU to EVERYONE involved!! AMAZING!! Kudos to the FABULOUS Koziak Productions, Gene Lebrock and FIDM Productions, all the models, dancers...YEAAAYYYYY TEAM FIDM DEBUT 2017!

FIDM.....Hosting FIDM DEBUT 2017 Thursday and Friday Shows: The BLOG RECAP!

Nick Verreos--FIDM DEBUT 2017 "Nick Tent"--Barker Hangar Santa Monica


Last week, I had the honor of hosting THREE NIGHTS of the fabulous FIDM DEBUT Shows.

FIDM's annual DEBUT Runway Show attracts nearly 10,000 people over three days and features designs by graduating students in FIDM's Fashion Design and Theatre Costume Design Advanced Study programs, as well as work from Interior Design, Digital Media, and Textile Design students. 








It's Show Time!--Nick Verreos onstage hosting FIDM DEBUT 2017, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of Jerry Li 


The extravaganza concludes on the third night with the DEBUT Runway Show & Gala, a scholarship fundraising event attended by industry notables, FIDM Alumni, and fashion celebrities--of which I will do a BLOG after this one! In addition to the industry, the runway show is also attended by high school students from around the country, friends and family of the graduating students, fellow FIDM Students, and FIDM Staff and Faculty. 








MC Nick: Nick Verreos onstage hosting FIDM DEBUT 2017 Thursday night show wearing Snapchat Snap Spectacles--Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of Jerry Li


For the past several years, I have opened the show but never hosted the entire event so it was a lot of pressure! But I think I stepped up to the challenge (you'd have to ask the attendees!)  And I had lots of fun doing it--which is probably the best thing! Not only did I introduce the designs of the Advanced Program of Theater Costume graduates:








FIDM DEBUT 2017 Advanced Program in Theatre Costume design--Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photos courtesy of David Paul


But, I also introduced the "Chairing Styles" design work of the Textiles, Interior Design as well as Fashion Design graduates...






Chair Boy: Nick Verreos onstage at FIDM DEBUT 2017 with FIDM "Chairing Styles" chair designs--Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Top photo courtesy of Jerry Li

Lower photo courtesy of David Paul


But I also had the chance to be onstage with GORGEOUS models wearing my NIKOLAKI gowns...




Nick and his Gowns: Nick Verreos onstage with models Marketa, Lauren and Kalyn of LA Models Runway in NIKOLAKI gowns--FIDM DEBUT 2017, Barker Hangar Santa Monica









Designers Nick Verreos and David Paul of NIKOLAKI with models Marketa, Kalyn and Lauren in NIKOLAKI gowns--backstage at FIDM DEBUT 2017 Barker Hangar Santa Monica






Model Kalyn Hemphill in NIKOLAKI silk ballgown--backstage at FIDM DEBUT 2017, Barker Hangar Santa Monica


Here are Photos from me Hosting the fab FIDM DEBUT 2017 Shows this past Thursday and Friday as well as post-show Meet & Greet Pics that we shot in my very own "VIP FIDM DEBUT Nick Tent":




Stage Is Set--FIDM DEBUT 2017, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of David Paul









Snap Spectacles Host--Nick Verreos onstage wearing Snapchat Snap Spectacles--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photos courtesy of David Paul







Nick Verreos--FIDM DEBUT 2017 "Chairing Styles" Introduction--Barker Hangar Santa Monica







Photos courtesy of David Paul





Stretch Diva: Nick Verreos backstage with dancer/model Ava Cota--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Barker Hangar Santa Monica






Thursday Night FIDM DEBUT "Nick Tent" Meet & Greet Pics:










Selfie Time: Nick Verreos and Meet & Greet attendees--FIDM DEBUT 2017 "Nick Tent" Barker Hangar Santa Monica













Thursday Night FIDM DEBUT 2017 VIP Meet & Greet "Nick Tent" Photo Collages--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Barker Hangar Santa Monica





Friday Night FIDM DEBUT 2017 "Nick Tent" Meet & Greet Pics:








  Group Photos: Nick Verreos and high school groups--FIDM DEBUT 2017 VIP "Nick Tent" Meet & Greet, Barker Hangar Santa Monica











  Meet & Greet Fun--Nick Verreos with attendees of the FIDM DEBUT 2017 Friday Night VIP Meet & Greet "Nick Tent", Barker Hangar Santa Monica







Awwww...Love this boy--There was an emotional moment back in the tent :)--Nick Verreos with attendee at FIDM DEBUT 2017 VIP Meet & Greet "Nick Tent", Barker Hangar Santa Monica 





Giving Back!--Models in NIKOLAKI gowns walking off stage--FIDM DEBUT 2017, Barker Hangar Santa Monica

Photo courtesy of David Paul


**UP NEXT: FIDM DEBUT 2017 Black Tie L.A. Fashion Gala Finale!

FIDM.....DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party with Project Runway Junior Stars!

Runway Fabulous: Nick Verreos joins "Project Runway Junior" designers Molly O'Brien, Season 2 Winner Chelsea Ma and from Season 1 Ysabel Hilado--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party Barker Hangar Santa Monica


This past Friday was the annual Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM DEBUT Fashion Club Party that happens concurrently with the fabulous FIDM DEBUT Show . The party is always a SOLD-OUT event with students, as well as educators and instructors from all over the US and from many, many different high school fashion clubs, attending.






Time for the Celebrity Corner: Nick Verreos at FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica


For several years now, I have been honored to headline the Fashion Club Party's "Celebrity Corner" and this year was no different but...I had FABULOUS company: THREE "Project Runway Junior" Stars!!!





I was joined by Season 2 designer Molly O'Brien , Winner Chelsea Ma and from Season 1, designer Ysabel Hilado (Photo above). We had A BLAST! Just take a look at my Instagram HERE to see what I mean! The FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party was SUPER FUN...



Here are photos from last week's fun-and-fabulous FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party. From the Decor, to the Food, to the "Celebrity Corner" Meet & Greet...Enjoy!



Decor:




Glam Couches, Tables and Beautiful Flowers: FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica





The Tent--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica


 The Food:




Crudites, Crackers, Cheeses + More: FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica





Caesar Salad Cups and Pizza!--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica





Cheese, Nuts, Fruits and Veggies: FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica







Doughnut Wall!--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica


The Scene:




Packed Fashion Club: The scene at the FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica









Guest Style: Attendees at the FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica





Eyelash Bar--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica





NV Chic: I LOVE it when I see my NV Nick Verreos studded ponte knit leggings on a HAPPY CUSTOMER!!--Nick Verreos and guest wearing "NV Nick Verreos" EVINE Live studded Ponte Knit Leggings--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica


Celebrity Corner Meet & Greet:


Celebrity Corner 2017: FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica







A Framer: Nick Verreos with "Project Runway Junior" designers Molly O'Brien, Chelsea Ma and Ysabel Hilado--and Fashion Club Party attendees--at the "Celebrity Corner", FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica









"Celebrity Corner" Meet & Greet Pic Collages: Nick Verreos and "Project Runway Junior" deisgners Molly O'Brien, Chelsea Ma and Ysabel Hilado + Fashion Club Party attendees--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica







Autograph Time: Nick Verreos and Fashion Club Party attendee, FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica








That's a Party Wrap!--Nick Verreos at the "Celebrity Corner"--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Fashion Club Party, Barker Hangar Santa Monica








**A BIG THANK YOU to my NIKOLAKI and NV Nick Verreos better half, David Paul as well as FIDM P.R. Department, for the great photos in this blog! 

ICE STYLE.....A Costume Tribute to Mao Asada 2017-2008

Princess Asada: A Costume Tribute


This past Monday, the figure skating world received the STUNNING news that Olympic silver medalist, three-time world champion, four-time Grand Prix champion and three-time Four Continents winner Mao Asada was retiring! In her blog, the 26 year-old said that after the Japanese nationals, "all the goals that had kept me going disappeared, along with my will to compete". It was a sad day for figure skating and I for one, will miss her--for her outstanding skating and yes, for her COSTUMES!





In honor of her retirement, I wanted to pay tribute to her costumes through the years--from the present through 2008. In terms of her costumes, Mao was not a wallflower when it came to what she wore on the ice. She embraced costumes and fashion with obvious passion. First off, her costumes were bold, detailed and definite extensions of her music choice and programs. She also was A MAJOR Costume Changer!! She wore two and sometimes THREE different costumes for one season's program, changing from one competition to another. There were also some commonalities in regards to her costumes: She loved LILAC, lavender, red-and-black and royal blue. A Lot. 





She also had an odd obsession for having her torso--and top section (I'm trying not to be crude--but you know what I'm talking about), in particular, being "highlighted" (Oversized flowers in that area were OOOPSIE Costume moments back in 2008/2009). And while some of her costumes did verge on being a little on the Tacky-licious side (I blame Tatiana Tarasova for most of those costume missteps), her most recent ones were some of my favorites, beginning with the 2014 Sochi Olympics Free Skate. Lets take a look at Mao Asada's Costumes Through The Years starting  from the most recent 2017-2016 Season to 2008:



2017-2017 Season---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Free Skate to En la cueva - La noche, Pantomime, El aparecido (all from "El amor brujo") by M. de Falla--Mao looked like a beautiful Señorita in this red costume featuring sequined applique, nude illusion and a draped chiffon skirt. I also loved the red rose-like accent on her chignon hairstyle. It was daring, sexy and right for the music. I think it is beautiful how the applique was cut to accent the front torso.



Short Program to Danza Ritual del fuego (from "El amor brujo") by M. de Falla--This costume is one of my FAVORITES worn by Asada! It's simply stunning! I love the impacting design which reminds me of a fabulous Rodarte -like gown; it's ethereal, dark, and beautifully detailed. I especially admired the handkerchief-like panels that formed the skirt and created fabulous unique movement.



2015-2016-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------







Free Skate to Madama Butterfly by Giaccomo Puccini--Mao wore this lilac/lavender colored kimono-like costume for her Free Skate to Madama Butterfly. This was also one of my favorite costumes worn by her. I liked the overt homage to the Japanese traditional clothing, yet instead of being cumbersome and heavy (as most Geisha kimonos are), this was light as a feather. I also liked the delicate butterfly sequined applique on the top section and mini Obi. And yes, the slightly belled sleeves was also a nice design touch.







Short Program to Bei Mir Bistu Shein by Sholom Secunda--I liked this fuchsia-colored costume that Mao wore for her SP during the 2015-2016 Season. This reminded me of a "Mini-Me" version of an Haute Couture Elie Saab gown; the batteau neckline, the sequin work--as well as the many godets on the bottom section. It wasn't extraordinary but it was pretty.




2013-2014 Season---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------





Free Skate to Piano Concert No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff--For this 2013-2014 Season, Mao Asada wore two different costumes for her Free Skate. I loved both. The royal blue-and-black one with twisted-like torso sequined detail was modern, runway chic and made quite a statement. During the season, she also wore the one in the photo above, most notably for the 2013 Skate America and 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, of course. This FABULOUS feather-like costume featuring waist sequined embellishment remains one of my ALL TIME FAVORITES worn by Mao. The costume was Skating COUTURE on every level!













Short Program to Nocturne Op. 9, No. 2 in E-flat major by Frederic Chopin--For her Short Program during the 2013-2014 Season, Mao also went back and forth between two different costumes. both were in a similar color palette and silhouette but with slight detail differences. Of the two costumes in the photos above, the lower one with gathered torso was my favorite and the one in the top photo was my least liked of the two. While I liked the ombre shading and unusual petal-like details, the styling focused too much on her "sistahs" and I just didn't understand that. It was as if she had two big ol' seashells up there. She even went as far as wearing this for the Sochi Winter Olympics 2014 Team competition but luckily, for the actual Ladies portion of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, she opted for wearing the prettier one of the two. And Thank Goodness. I liked this lilac costume much better. It was less garish, more fashion-friendly, and there wasn't so much emphasis on her you-know-what's. I thought the gathering on the torso and waist were nice and the crystal neckline, beautiful.



2012-2013-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Free Skate to Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky--Mao wore this Swan costume for her 2012-2013 Season Free Skate to "Swan Lake". In Mao Asada Costume Tradition, she changed costumes during this season as well--from the one in the upper photo to the lower one. If I have to chose, my favorite was the costume in the first photo. This was chic, fashionable and elegant and so Ballet Fabulous. I especially liked the silver-gray center front torso details. I thought the other one (lower photo above) was a bit "heavy-handed" and featured way too many raw-edged chiffon "feathers", particularly in the torso; it made her look heavy. She looked as if she got in a fight with a swan...and the swan won!





Short Program to I Got Rhythm by George Gershwin--Love. Love. And Love. The coral color was vibrant, impacting and very effective. It was also unexpected for Asada. I also loved the criss-cross gathering/draping and sequin work in the torso. I only wished she would have really finished it off with something more fabulous than a coral-colored pony-tail rubber-band as a hair accessory. But I will overlook that since I really liked this bold, runway-ready 2012-2013 Short Program costume to "I Got Rhythm".



2011-2012-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Free Skate to Liebestraume by Franz Liszt--For her Free Skate, Asada wore this lilac (of course!)-colored costume with beautiful sequined applique on the top and chiffon skirt. I really liked this costume--especially since I had seen it before in a previous season; this costume was a "Costume Throwback" to what she had worn the previous season for her Free Program of the same music (keep reading below). Even though I did like this, I was wishin' and prayin' that maybe, just maybe, she might change her costume just to add some "newness" to her skate. And eventually she did...





For the 2012 World Figure Skating Championships--This lilac design was modern, chic and soooo Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. I loved the gathered/draped top and the heavily crystal'ed midriff was Chanel-like GORGEOUS!





Short Program Scheherazade by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov--OK, I have to admit that when I first saw Mao Asada in this "I Dream Of Jeannie" look, I liked it. I would have NEVER guessed Asada would wear a bloomer-like jumpsuit straight out of a "Disney On Ice" skating number. But then, I came to my senses and thought that it was actually, slightly over-the-top and tacky. While I liked the top section and that sequin detail, the pants were too distracting. This was a Scheherazade Don't. Luckily...





She changed to this above. This was an improvement (at least she didn't look like a cast member from a Disney theme Park!), and while it was slightly "Michelle Kwan"-like, it was still Too Mucheey. And what the heck is up with the bust embellishments??? This was slightly better than her "I Dream of Jeannie" look but still had some design issues that I wasn't a fan of.









2010/2011-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Trophee Eric Bompard 2010







                                            Japan Figure Skating Championships 2010





2011 World Figure Skating Championships




Short Program Tango (from Agony) by Alfred Schnittke--A girl likes options...and it is her prerogative to change her costumes...and Mao Asada did: Asada wore THREE different costumes for her "Tango" Short Program during the 2010-2011 Season. All three featured the Tango-esque red-and-black colors and in terms of design, she varied from Sweet-and-Sassy to Sexy-licious (lower costume). Of the three, I was very perplexed by the one in the middle featuring the red flower-like busts. This was just tacky, garish and questionable on several taste levels. If I had to pick, the other two were my favorites with probably the lower one as the one I liked the best. This one was more "fashionable", less garish and the most figure skating costume directional.





Free Skate to Liebestraume by Franz Liszt--This was the first time we got to see this lilac sequined costume which she ended up bringing back the following season (since she used the same music and program). As I already said, I really liked this costume for its simplicity, beauty and lack of distracting details.



2009-2010-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Free Skate to Prelude in C-sharp minor "Bells of Moscow" by Sergei Rachmaninov--The 2009-2010 Season for Asada--in terms of costumes--was probably one of her low points. While there was consistency in terms of colors, the looks were a little overdone, there was overuse of trims and frankly, they needed editing. This costume above which she wore for her Free Skate had a fire-like red and silver-gray embellishment in the torso, as well as ruched neckline details and layers forming a messy skirt. It was Too-Mucheey.









Short Program to Waltz from Masquerade Suite by Aram Khachaturian--For her Short program, Mao wore THREE different costumes throughout the season, all with similar details, in varying shades of red and pink. They were all pretty much a mess. the two lower ones featured pretty sequin details around the shoulders and midriff but then...WHAT THE HECK is happening at the bust/neckline?? Why those BIG OBNOXIOUS flowers?? And WHY THERE?? And then, the costume in the first photo at the top: She looked like an extra in a Spaghetti Western. I get the theme was a Waltz and a Masquerade Ball, but I am sure there had to be better depictions of what a lovely woman would wear to one of these situations. Frankly, they were slightly too "Junior Skater" for Mao. She deserved more refined Skating Couture! Johnny Weir was quoted as saying "She looked like a gilded mirror in Tatiana Tarasova's apartment!"



Finally...

2008-2009 Season---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------





Short Program to Claire De Lune by Claude Debussy--For her Short Program during the 2008-2009 Season, Mao wore these two costumes. Both were in the lilac and royal blue colors she loves so much. I liked BOTH! These were pretty, elegant and looked expensive. I also liked that they were void of all that tackety-tacky trim she unfortunately got into in later seasons. They were also beautiful costume reflections of the music.





Free Skate to Waltz from Masquerade Suite by Aram Kachaturian--Mao wore this black costume to the same music she would later use the following season for her Short Program. This design was sexy, chic and fashion-forward and definitely MUCH BETTER than the costumes she wore for the same music the following season. I loved the neckline sequined "straps" and midriff scroll-like applique detail.





Thank You Mao Asada for being an ICON of Ladies Figure Skating and for always making me look forward to not just your performances and skates but of course, to your costumes! You will be missed!