Nick Verreos's Blog, page 45

FIDM.....Hosting the FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon

Welcome to FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon: Nick Verreos at FIDM LA Campus--Ready to Host FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon


This past week was FIDM DEBUT week. The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM --my Alma Mater and college of which I am a Spokesperson for--holds its FIDM DEBUT show that showcases the designs of the very talented Advanced Program graduates in Fashion Design, Theater Costume, Textile and as well as Interior Design. As part of the events concurring with the DEBUT Show, I was invited to host the fun FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon. This luncheon honors the FIDM educators, college reps and advisors from all over the U.S. who help, guide, advise and educate high school students about FIDM and what the college has to offer.






Host With The Most: Nick Verreos onstage at FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon--Grand Hope Park, Downtown Los Angeles


I have hosted these Educators Luncheons for many years now and it is one of my favorite events of the DEBUT week! I LOVE seeing all the educators and advisors that I visit every now and then in all the various FIDM campus including FIDM Orange County , San Francisco , San Diego as well as Los Angeles . I had so much fun hosting the Luncheon, Almuni Discussion, Raffle, as well as doing my "Nick Thang"--discussing the fabulous styles worn by the Educators at the Luncheon + much More...



Here are photos from this past week's FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon:




Luncheon MC: Nick Verreos Hosting the FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon--Grand Hope Park, Downtown Los Angeles







Alumni Discussion: Nick Verreos and FIDM Grad, Taylor Pines discussing Denim and Jeans (she's a Technical Designer for J Brand!) and FIDM life--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park Downtown Los Angeles







Raffle Time: Nick Verreos announcing Raffle Winners with FIDM Special Events Coordinator Spencer Williams--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park Downtown Los Angeles









Raffle Winners: Nick Verreos with FIDM EDBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon Raffle Winners--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park Downtown Los Angeles





Nick Verreos with two of FIDM's newest Educators/Advisors/High School & College Reps--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park Downtown Los Angeles





(L to R) FIDM Speakers Bureau/Special Events Regional Director Tanya Buzalsky, Spencer Williams, Nick Verreos and Taylor Pines--FIDM DEBUT 2017 Educators Luncheon, Grand Hope Park Downtown Los Angeles


Finally...





Prom Pic: Nick Verreos and FIDM College Rep/Educator Cecile Fayen--I love me some Cecile!! I teased her during the entire Educators Luncheon because she always has the most amazing Instagram Foodie Pics--especially her infamous "Veggie Frittatas"! Therefore I had to put a photo of us here--Make sure to check out her Instagram HERE.



Here's to another FIDM Educators Luncheon! THANK YOU to all the WONDERFUL Educators and College Reps! On behalf of FIDM...Love ya!

ICE STYLE.....Best of 2016-2017 Season Figure Skating Costumes: Ice Dance, Pairs, Men & Ladies!

The Best Of The Best: 2016-2017 Figure Skating Season


The 2016-2017 Figure Skating Season is over and I felt it was a perfect time to RECAP the BEST of Costumes we saw throughout the season in Ice Dance, Pairs, Men's and Ladies. Overall, I have to say that it was a very good season for costumes, with lots of fabulous designs that pushed the Figure Skating Costume "Ice Style" to a slightly more fashionable, somewhat directional level. The men, especially--Thank Goodness--got slightly more daring and creative in their costumes and we saw less and less of the "Ross Dress For Less" Dress Shirt-Tacky Belt-and-Slacks Look. Lets take a look at some of my favorites from this past season...and of course, let me know which were your favs! I'll begin with...



ICE DANCE







Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir Canada Short Program to Hip Hop: Kiss by Prince, Blues: Five Women by Prince, Blues: Purple Rain by Prince--Prince. Need I say more? Admittedly, this is ALL (or, like 98.8%!) about Tessa's costume. She is wearing a fabulous jumpsuit and it's purple and black, sequined applique and giving homage to the iconic Prince ruffled blouse: It is costume perfection! The thought and detail put into the entire design and especially those side panel cut-outs is commendable and therefore, this was DEFINITELY one of the Standouts of the 2016-2017 Season.





Virtue and Moir Canada Free Dance to Pilgrims on a Long Journey by Coeur de Pirate
Latch (Acoustic) by Sam Smith: Virtue and Moir really brought it this past season when it came to their costumes and their Free Skate looks were a perfect example. This dress on Tessa is one of MY TOP FAVORITE COSTUMES for the 2016-2017 Season. She looks Runway Chic, divine and fabulously ethereal all at the same time. The pleated detail is very High Fashion Fab. I usually have a problem with the male partner just being oh-so-boring in black or navy but...WHO CARES??? Tessa looks GORGEOUS It's all about HER...once again! (Sorry Scott!). Of note, she wore the putty colored version (top photo, left) for Skate Canada International 2016 but then changed it to the blush/pink when we saw them in Marseilles at the 2016 ISU Grand Prix International (and for the rest of the season). I love both but if I had to choose, I'd go for the pink one.







Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron France Free Skate to Stillness by Nest, Oddudua by Aldo Lopez Gavilan, Happiness Does Not Wait by Olafur Arnalds: One of my favorite Ice Dance costumes of the 2016-2017 Season were worn by the OUTSTANDING pair of Papadakis and Cizeron. I think she looked absolutely ethereal and like a Runway Chic Goddess in this ombre-shaded one-shoulder draped costume dress and Guillaume...well, thank goodness that muscle shirt/top is PLUNGING and SLEEVELESS: Tres Bien!





Maia and Alex Shibutani USA Short Dance to Blues: That's Life performed by Frank Sinatra, Hip Hop: That's Life (remix) performed by Frank Sinatra, Jay Z--I loved these costumes on the Shibutanis; they were chic, modern and a fresh costume perspective while skating to Frank Sinatra and Jay Z. I'm especially a big fan of Maia in a Tuxedo-esque jumpsuit! The sequined/illusion panel is FABULOUS. This above was a slight "Costume Change" from what Maia wore early on in the season for the same Free Skate: 






2016 Skate America and 2016 Cup of China--Which jumpsuit did you guys like best? The 1st one with halter neckline (photo above) or the one in the top photo (with satin lapels)?




Shibutani and Shibutani USA Free Dance to Evolution: Mirror In Mirror by Anne Akiko Meyers, Akira Eguchi--The Shibutani's did well in terms of their costumes this season for both their Short Dance and Free Dance. I liked these royal blue-and-black sequined looks. These were pretty costumes that worked well with the music. I especially loved Alex's draped chiffon top; it was a perfect complimentary look to Maia's floaty dress. The royal blue color theme was beautiful and effective.







Madison Chock and Evan Bates Free Dance to Under Pressure by David Bowie, Freddie Mercury: I wasn't a big SUPERFAN of their Short Dance costumes this season--they were OK but certainly not in my Top Ten. But, I did like these costumes worn for their Free Dance to David Bowie and Freddie Mercury. The costumes were chic, modern yet retro and still reflective of the music. Her purple costume with asymmetrical fishtail hemline and blue-and-orange sequin detail was vibrant, fun and HOT! I also liked his delicately sequined knit top that (if you were paying attention) also featured a slight asymmetrical hemline (like hers). Sexy, fashion-y and stage/ice perfect! They also changed their costumes from the beginning of the season...and I am glad they did:




Chock and Bates: Original Free Skate Costumes from Skate Canada 2016




Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Short Dance to Blues: Cry For Me
Boogie Woogie: Choo Choo Boogie--Lastly, I had to include the AMAZING Italians Cappellini and Lanotte in my "Best of 2016-2017 Ice Dance Costumes". I especially loved what they wore for their Short Dance. They always have fun, great character-driven ice dances and these were bold looks perfect for their music and dance. Anna was very 50's fun in a black and white polka dotted dress and Luca was giving Ballroom Dancer Host in his Shawl-collared red and black tuxedo outfit. I really loved her dress and how it was fitted but flowy on her. The gradation of polka dots was perfection. And Luca's strong red colored jacket was impacting and attention-getting fab.





PAIRS



Vanessa James and Morgan Cipres France Short Program to Earned It (from "Fifty Shades of Grey") by The Weekend and Maxime Rodriguez: I always look forward to what James and Cipres wear. These two have the most AMAZING bodies and they almost always give fashion folk like me something when it comes to their costumes. For their Short Program this season, they went sexy, 90's Vintage Versace-like (especially with those back straps on James). I especially liked her black-and-nude illusion sequined trimmed top section as well as the crystal-accented shoulders of his Moto jacket. They both looked on-trend, fashionable and oh-so-chic!







Wenjing Sui and Cong Han China Short Program to Blues for Klook by Eddy Louis: First of all, I am IN LOVE with Wenjing Sui's asymmetrical bob hairstyle! She is definitely a STYLE STAR! These costumes worn for their Short program are nice and effective. I liked how there were subtle style hints that these two belong together; the lace trim and applique detail seen on her costume and then on his shirt accents. They looked modern and still slightly Figure Skating Costume Retro...at the same time. 











Yu Xiaoyu and Zhang Hao Free Skate to Cavatina Larghetto amoroso: Another gorgeous costume pair this season were Yu and Zhang. Her sequined applique costume featured flowers, ombre shading and crystal detailing with a Chanel Couture-like design sensibility. His gray outfit was elegant and a nice masculine contrast to her superb femininity. I especially admired the diagonal pleating detail in his shirt. They were two of the BEST in terms of costumes for 2016-2017.





Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot of Germany Free Skate to Lighthouse by Patrick Watson: I love these costumes worn by Savchenko and Massot for their Free Skate and therefore they are in my Best of 2016-2017 Blog. They were elegant and subdued with a dash of sparkle with the beautiful over-sized crystals. Her costume looked like a figure skating version of a Haute Couture Elie Saab gown especially with the sequined waistband. And his, well--I BOW to him for giving me sequins, ombre and semi-sheer; not many male figure skaters (US males, especially!) who will even go there. 





Speaking of semi-sheer and American...




Marissa Castelli and Mervin Tran Short Program to Fallin' by Alicia Keys: For their Short Program to Alicia Keys, Castelli and Tran wore these violet blue and black costumes, and I really loved them. I loved the color, the jeweled sequin detail and asymmetrical necklines...on both! I thought it was great how her sequins were bolder while his, more subtle. But her costume, especially was a Pairs Star for me this 2016-2017 Season. She gave you FASHIOOOOON huneeeyyyy!






Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Nathan Bartholomay Short Program to Canadian Tenors Medley: These costumes were GORGEOUS and therefore, I had to give them my "Ice Style" Costume Props here on my blog. The colors were sublime; the royal blue-to-black ombre was beautiful. And the sequin work was quite nice as well. I especially liked how her asymmetrical neckline was somewhat reproduced (in a more "manly" way) on Nathan's top. Whoever designed--and created these: A++







Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford Canada Short Program to Killer by Seal: I'm always intrigued when I see a full-on jumpsuit/bodysuit worn in competition and Meagan wore one for her 2016-2017 Season Short Program. I wasn't a big fan of what they wore for their Free Skate (it was a little too "Toddlers & Tiaras" 1980's Pageant-and-Prom) but...I liked this on Meagan and I think it was just right for the music and skate, especially her sequined Lycra bodysuit ensemble. I also loved how Eric was coordinating with her--costume-wise. I would expect these looks from say, the French Pairs of James and Cipres so...it was a nice Costume Surprise to see it on Canadians Duhamel and Radford.



MEN



Denis Ten Kazakhstan Free Skate to Tosca by Giacomo Puccini: I have to begin my "Best of 2016-2017" Costumes for the Men with Denis Ten and this GORGEOUS look from his Free Skate. The entire costume was Skating COUTURE! For its simplicity, delicacy, beautiful sequin work, and the front neckline...and sleeve crystal detail, this was Figure Skating Men's Costume Perfection.





Adam Rippon Short Program to Let Me Think About It (Ida Corr vs. Fedde Le Grand): OK, now I could not discuss my favorites from the 2016-2017 Season without giving special mention to Adam Rippon and BOTH his Short and Free Skate costumes. When I first saw Adam come out onto the ice in this, I swear I was at the  Tropicana Beach Club in Mykonos ! His barely-there costume of a sleeveless faux leather-and-illusion sequined muscle top (try to say that four times!) and skin-tight black pants went perfectly with the high-energy dance music soundtrack. I loved the royal blue and silver sequin detail at the side and how that illusion back continued past the side seam and onto part of the front asymmetrically. Sexy and right for the skate: At-a-Boy!









Adam Rippon Free Skate to Arrival of the Birds ("Crimson Wing" soundtrack) by The Cinematic Orchestra, O by Coldplay: For his Free Skate, he wore another semi-sheer top with black pants.  Adam has never met a sheer/illusion shirt he didn't love! While yes, this might be a bit repetitive...A) Adam has the .000032% fat-free body to pull it off...and B) this top had sleeves, thank you very much! The music--and his skate--involved birds of sorts, and he showed this beautifully in his choreography. The costume gave "hints" of the feathers, as you can see in the stitched applique work and raw-edged neckline. I loved this and therefore, Adam is on my "Best of 2016-2017 Figure Skating Costumes" List.







Shoma Uno Free Skate to Buenos Aires Hora Cero and Barada para un loco by Astor Piazzolla: I loved this Free Skate costume on Shoma. The red and black were perfect for the music and the delicate and intricate sequin detail was beautiful: He was fiery and Toreador fab. If I had any advice to him, it would be to lose the necklace. I know that sometimes these skaters (Yuzuru Hanyu is another one!) wear these accessories for sentimental or good luck, however, my advice would be to DITCH THEM ASAP!







Patrick Chan Canada Free Skate to A Journey by Eric Radford: For this Free Skate at the 2016 Grand Prix Finals in Marseille, Patrick changed his costume to this Tie Dye top and pants outfit in top photo above. This was (thankfully) a bit more color than we would ever see from him and a nice change from what he originally wore early in the season for the same Free Skate (lower photo above). While, some may argue that it wasn't much of a "costume" per se (it was just a stretch crew neck long sleeve top and pants) but well...it's Patrick Chan kids! I was happy with this and enough so to warrant him--and this costume--a Best of 2016-2017 spot. 







Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Free Skate to Hope and Legacy by Joe Hisaishi--Yuzuru is a big Costume King, when it comes to his competition figure skating ensembles. I love that you know he's going to give you SOMETHING and well, you will not be bored. For this past 2016-2017 Season, he delivered some bold, fun costumes that were attention-grabbing, arguably slightly tacky-licious (it's YUZURU!) and still kind of GREAT! I loved the multicolored draped and gathered stretch chiffon top in his 2016-2017 Free Skate. Look at that photo: It looks easy-breezy but that top probably took many, many hours to get that way. I love how Yuzuru is comfortable with mixing the feminine and pretty, as well as juxtaposing it with the masculine, while also hinting at an old-school "Vintage" figure skating costume vibe. 







Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Short Program to Let's Go Crazy by Prince: Yes, it's Prince and yes, it's Yuzuru. And yes, I liked it. Purple, sleek and Glam Fabulous! If there is any critique, it's all those necklaces of his...too many unnecessary accessories; I understand how meaningful they might be...but they are distracting! Originally when he unveiled the program, the costume was white (top photo above) but then, he switched to the purple. They're both pretty great and almost Figure Skating Costume Iconic. Prince would be proud.



LADIES



Mirai Nagasu USA Short Program to Nocturne No. 20 in C Sharp Minor by Frederic Chopin: Mirai wore this purple costume for her Short Program and it was one of my favorites of the 2016-2017 Season. Mirai always wears costumes that I appreciate and admire. I also love how she is VERY ON-TREND with the "nude back" with sequin detail. Between the color, the sequins, the details, this was a $5,000+-worth costume worth EVERY PENNY darlings!





Mirai Nagasu of USA Free Skate to The Winner Takes It All performed by Sarah Dawn Finer: Not only did I like Mirai's Short program costume but I also loved her Free Skate look for this past season. It was very "Ice Queen" with the white color and delicate crystal beading. I especially loved the neckline and asymmetrically-placed sequins...so pretty. One of the prettiest of the season.







Rika Hongo of Japan Free Skate to Lawrence of Arabia (soundtrack) by Maurice Jarre: Rika really made me happy with this "Near East Diva" costume referencing her "Lawrence of Arabia" music. I. Loved. It. She looked like a sexy Sheikha of Arabia! I also appreciated her crystal crown and arm and hand sequined details of the costume. This looked like the Figure Skating Costume version of a chic fabulous gown from a Lebanese Couturier that I would see during Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week; it was that good!





Satoko Miyahara of Japan Free Skate to The Planets by Gustav Holst: I LOVED this costume so much I had to include it in my Best of 2016-2017 Season. I absolutely adore the Grecian Goddess draping, the stark ivory color and beautiful sequin detail. I also like her crystal double headband. She looks chic, and Figure Skating Red Carpet Ready! This is simply one of THE BEST from the Ladies last season, in terms of costumes. A 10 for sure!









Ashley Wagner Free Skate to Exogenesis Symphony Part 3 by Muse: Ashley's costumes this past season were some of my FAVORITES. For her Free Skate, Ashley did a costume change. Previously, during the 2016-2017 Season, she wore the silver and violet/gray ombre shaded sparkly costume in the top photo above. I loved that costume and thought it looked very expensive and EXQUISITELY done. Later in the season, she changed into the burgundy one in the lower top photo for her Free Skate. This one featured a halter neckline and elongated diamond-shaped clusters of crystals. I liked the first violet/gray costume a little better to be honest; it just looks more refined, Haute and fashion thoughtful. What do you guys think?







Ashley Wagner USA Short Program to Sweet Dreams (Are Made of These) by Annie Lennox: What can I say other than: I LOVED THIS! It's chic, superfab and so right for the Annie Lennox music. Ashley wore this blue asymmetrical design which featured great sequin details on the shoulders, neckline and throughout the costume's torso. I also loved the slight royal blue color "peek-a-boo". Oh and to finish everything off, her smoky eyes and red lipstick were 90's New Wave on-point. This one should go in a Figure Skating Costume Museum ASAP! Soooo good!







Gracie Gold USA Free Skate to Daphnis and Chloe by Maurice Ravel: I liked both of Gracie's Short as well as Free Skate costumes this past season. While Gracie's Short Program costume was more modern (see below), she went back to her "Ice Queen" look with her Free Skate costume. This nude colored design was still quite fabulous and expertly done. The golden sequins were exceptional and I especially loved the hair accessory. Overall: Quite gorgeous and very Nancy Kerrigan "Vera Wang"-retro beautiful.







Gracie Gold USA Short Program: Now, speaking of her Short Program...Gracie skated her Short Program to Assassin's Tango (from "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" soundtrack) by John Powell wearing this very modern black costume. I loved it! It was fresh, directional and fashion forward, especially when it comes to figure skating costumes. I loved the bias binding "spider web-like" detail and the subtle silver crystal embellishment. For some reason I kept thinking that I had seen this look somewhere before...and yep, I was right: It was very reminiscent of this look (right photo, above) from Atelier Versace Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2016. Gracie's costume was a very well done knock-off and I loved the obvious inspiration from actual Hi-Fashion runway shows.







Carolina Kostner Italy Short Program to God of Thunder by Kitaro, Bonzo's Montreux by John Bonham (Led Zeppelin): This past season, Carolina returned to figure skating after a two-year hiatus (and being suspended for lying about her ex-boyfriend, reportedly concealing the fact that he was using banned illegal performance-enhancing drugs--Yikes!). Well, anyhow...she's BACK! This black and white costume for her Short Program is graphic, modern and void of typical sparkly embellishments the sport's costumes are known for. I liked the gathered top and asymmetry of the look, as well as the chic metallic belt. It was directional (for figure skating!) and fashionable.







Evgenia Medvedeva Russia Free Skate to Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, and Piano Lesson with Grandma by Alexandre Desplat: It's not every day one sees a top ladies' singles figure skater wearing a dress this long as her costume but it worked for Medvedeva this season. This design had purple-to-lilac ombre shading and an Empire-waist look that featured sequin embroidery. There was almost a Medieval/Game of Thrones look to it providing a somewhat ethereal quality to the background of the somber 9/11-inspired music. It was very memorable, mainly for its delicacy this past 2016-2017 season and worthy of a Best Of mention.







Gabrielle Daleman Canada Short Program to Acte IV Prelude from "Herodiade", Scene XIV Ballet Finale from "Herodiade" by Jules Massenet: I loved this costume on Daleman.  The music is from "Herodiade" opera which retells the story of John The Baptist, Salome, Herod Antipas and Herodias. She's playing "Salome", I assume and looks the part, in a modern fashionable sense. The black costume is highlighted by the GORGEOUS gold, silver and lilac sequins that form a breastplate of snakes. I loved that if one took this costume and made a red carpet gown, it would still be FABULOUS.







Gabrielle Daleman Canada Free Skate to Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin: Daleman skated a FABULOUS Free Skate at 2017 Worlds and I thought this royal blue sequined costume was PERFECT for the iconic "Rhapsody in Blue" music and therefore deserved an inclusion here in my Best of Season 2016-2017 "Ice Style" Blog. I appreciated the varying sizes of the crystals strewn throughout the costume and especially how the larger ones highlighted her neckline and waist. Also, I think it was smart of the costume designer to make her skirt very short to make her not-so-long legs seem longer. Visual Fashion Illusion courtesy of a Figure Skating Costume!





Kaytlyn Osmond Canada Short Program Sous le ciel de Paris and Milord performed by Edith Piaf: I thought this design was a nice choice considering her music and beautiful enough to be one of my favorites of the 2016-2017 Season. The neck-tie costume with sequin applique midriff was "Parisian" in its flair and reminded me of the iconic Yves Saint Laurent pussy-bow sheer chiffon blouse. And while I am normally not a fan of the gloves, I think they were correct in this look.





Karen Chen USA Short Program to On Golden Pond by Dave Grusin: OK, when I first saw Karen in this, I thought that she was skating to "Swan Lake", "Black Swan" or "Nutcracker"...you get the picture. But no kids: She skated to "On Golden Pond". And surprisingly, I LOVE it. It was pretty, well made and exquisitely sequined, down to her fingertips. Gorgeous! She debuted this costume at the 2016 NHK Trophy in late November and I'm glad she stayed with it: One of my favorites of the season!







Karen Chen USA Free Skate to Tango Jalousie by Jacob Gade: Tango anyone? Well, for Karen, it was "Si!". This was another very good costume for Karen Chen this past season. The silver and red crystals were beautiful and the scroll-like torso detail was very pretty. For such a young lady, this costume was very mature, and in a super chic way! I also loved her sultry makeup, especially those red lips and Señorita eyes.



Last but not least...



Mao Asada Japan Short Program to Danza Ritual del fuego (from "El amor brujo") by M. de Falla: I loved this "Black Swan"-like costume worn by Mao Asada. The nude illusion-and-black applique embellished costume with godet-paneled skirt was stunning, impacting and belongs in a figure skating costume museum.  Mao BROUGHT IT huney, when it came to costumes and as we found out this was her last season since she recently announced her retirement. She went out with a Costume Fab Bang!



**Stay Tuned for my Costumes Tribute to the One-and-Only Mao Asada!

NV NICK VERREOS.....QVC UK NV Nick Verreos Spring 2017 Show RECAP + London: Photos!

Nick Verreos with QVC UK host Catherine Huntley--NV Nick Verreos QVC UK March 2017 Show





London...here I come!--My Air New Zealand flight to London--Tom Bradley International Terminal


Last week, I flew all the way to London to debut my latest NV Nick Verreos designs on QVC UK . The last time I had been there was exactly one year ago. I'm humbled that my clothing line declaring that "Every Woman Deserves a Red Carpet Moment", is doing well and whenever I get a chance to fly to London to be on air live, I am THERE!






Nick Verreos--NV Nick Verreos on QVC UK


Here are some photos from my time on QVC UK debuting my newest Spring 2017 collection as well as some pics of my short time (only TWO DAYS!) sightseeing in London:






My BEST SELLER "Santorini" Maxi Dress--Nick Verreos and his NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Printed Draped Front Jersey Knit Maxi Dress which you can get HERE!





Model Smiles: Nick Verreos with one of the QVC UK models







Live On Air: Nick Verreos wth QVC UK host Catherine Huntley--NV Nick Verreos QVC UK March 2017 Show




Nick Verreos Jeans: I was especially excited to be in London on QVC UK to debut my BRAND NEW NV Nick Verreos Mock Fly-Front Stretchy Boot-cut Jeans. These jeans fit PERFECTLY on any woman and feel as if you are wearing leggings...Click HERE to get them!





Spring Wrap Dress: Here's one of my newest NV Nick Verreos QVC UK dresses---Side Draped Cascade-front Faux Wrap Dress in Knit Jersey. This one is in a coral color but it's also available in a mini-dotted print! Click HERE to get it UK ladies!










Tropical Chic: My NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Tropical printed Jersey Knit Jogger Pants with Drawstring Waist--Click HERE to get!







 NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Printed Bomber Jacket--XS, S and 3XL on Wait List!! Click HERE to SHOP!





Spring Dress Fab--NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Spring 2017 Dresses--Click HERE to SHOP!







London Pics: While I was in London for my QVC UK show, I had two days to take the Underground and do some sightseeing. I wanted to make sure to head over to Westminster, especially after what had just occurred only days before; I felt a need to be there, and in my own way, pay my silent tributes to the fallen...


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Nick and Big Ben: Nick Verreos with the Elizabeth Tower/Big Ben in the background--Palace of Westminster London UK



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  Tributes and Condolences, 2017 London Westminster Attack--Palace of Westminster, Westminster Bridge--London UK







  The Elizabeth Tower/Big Ben with The London Eye in the background (left)--London UK





  The London Eye--across the River Thames as seen from Westminster Bridge, London UK







  Westminster Abbey--London UK







Double Decker--Westminster London UK


On my second day, I made sure to catch up on some shopping and head over to Knightsbridge and Harrods (I know, I'm such a tourist!):




  Harrods London UK





  Meatpie Delish: Meatpie and Milanesa/Schnitzel selections at Harrods Gourmet Food Department--London UK





  Olives and Fromage: Olives and Cheese selection at Harrods Gourmet Food Department, London UK





Dessert Yummy: Desserts at the Harrods Desserts Department, London UK





The Harrods Chocolate Easter Egg--Harrods, London UK





Bye Bye London! Heading back home to LA--Nick Verreos at Heathrow Terminal 2: The Queen's Terminal

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

Gown Beautiful: Model Amanda Fields Bennett and Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI silk sequined gown with silk chiffon cape--7th Annual "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego , FIDM San Diego


Last week, I had the pleasure of traveling to San Diego to headline the 7th Annual "Fashion With A Passion" Event and Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego . The event was held at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM San Diego , and my Alma Mater-- FIDM --was kind enough to underwrite my appearance and fashion show.








Silent Auction Room: 2017 "Fashion With A Passion" Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego


The annual event is very popular for many reasons, including the fact that it benefits Make-A-Wish San Diego , as well as for its Wine-and-Food, Accessories Swap, latest Fashion Finds tables, amazing raffles, wonderful Silent Auction and THE Fashion Show. Prior to the actual event, I filmed some fun TV segments with local San Diego TV stations including FOX5 San Diego as well as San Diego Living Morning Show on CW6...






 Nick Verreos--At FIDM San Diego with his NIKOLAKI and NV Nick Verreos designs--FIDM San Diego





Nick Verreos "A Passion For Fashion" Book--FIDM San Diego bookstore






 (L to R): Nick Verreos, FOX5 San Diego reporter Heather Lake and Make-A-Wish San Diego Ambassador Jazmyn--FIDM San Diego







  San Diego TV: Nick Verreos and model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI gold sequined gown--"San Diego Living" Morning TV Show CW6 San Diego, promoting the 7th Annual "Fashion With A Passion" Event Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego





Picture This: Nick Verreos and model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI gold sequined silk gown--"San Diego Living" Morning Show" CW6 San Diego





Nick Verreos with models Amanda Fields Bennett and Amber Lindauer of L.A. Models Runway in NIKOLAKI gowns: Blush colored silk sequined gown with silk chiffon cape (L) and golden sequined silk gown with cowl top and capelet detail-- 7th Annual "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego , FIDM San Diego


I was honored to show some of my fabulous high-end NIKOLAKI Red Carpet gowns as well as NV Nick Verreos styles I sell exclusively to TV shopping networks here in the US and abroad. My NIKOLAKI design partner, David Paul and I, were also humbled enough to dress the BEAUTIFUL Jazmyn, the Make-A-Wish San Diego Ambassador. Here are photos from the event and my NIKOLAKI Fashion Show--as well as post-fashion show:








Couture on Hangers: NIKOLAKI gowns on hangers ready for the 2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Ballgown 101: Nick Verreos discusses the inner-workings of a NIKOLAKi ballgown--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







Cascade One Shoulder Diva: Model Amber Lindauer in NIKOLAKI yellow silk crape satin one shoulder gown with cascade drape--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Oscars Goddess: Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI Custom Gown worn by Debbie Matenopoulos at the 2017 Academy Awards---2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







Sequined Couture: Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI nCustom silk sequined blush-colored gown with silk chiffon cape--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego







NV Fab: Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NV Nick Verreos Printed Top and Studded Leggings at 2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Shimmering: Models Amanda Fields Bennett (L) and Amber Lindauer (R) in NIKOLAKI gowns--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Then & Now...Model and David's Niece: Model Amanda Fields Bennett and David Paul's niece Emilie Coon--Left photo is from 2011 and the right one is now, in 2017. Emilie is wonderful enough to assist backstage in these San Diego-based shows so it was great to get this Then-&-Now Pic





Book Fans: Nick Verreos with guests holding their copies of Nick's "A Passion For Fashion" book--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego



Meet and Greet: Nick Verreos and David Paul of NIKOLAKI, along with models in NIKOLAKI gowns--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego








NV Divas: Rachel Padilla and David's mom, Conchita Encinas Hansen--wearing the same fabulous black-and-white "NV Nick Verreos" Moto Jacket--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





NIKOLAKI Muses: (L to R) Model Amanda Fields Bennett, Make-A-Wish San Diego Ambassador Jazmyn, and model Amber Lindauer--all in NIKOLAKI--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" Event Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego FIDM San Diego





Designers Nick Verreos and David Paul of NIKOLAKI with Jazmyn, Make-A-Wish San Diego Ambassador--and models in NIKOLAKI gowns--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego





Designers and Muse: Nick Verreos, Jazmyn, the Make-A-Wish San Diego Ambassador, and David Paul--2017 "Fashion With A Passion" NIKOLAKI Fashion Show Benefiting Make-A-Wish San Diego, FIDM San Diego

ICE STYLE.....2017 World Figure Skating Championships Costumes Recap: MEN, ICE DANCE!

Stylish Romance: Canada's Ice Dance pair of Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their Free Dance at the 2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championhsips in Helsinki Finland


In my last post HERE, I discussed the COSTUMES of the LADIES and PAIRS of the 2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championships, which were held this past week and weekend in Helsinki Finland. Now, it's time to round out my "Ice Style" Costumes Recap and talk about the Ice Dance and MEN Costumes. Let's begin with...




ICE DANCE:




Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir Canada Short Program to Hip Hop: Kiss by Prince, Blues: Five Women by Prince, Blues: Purple Rain by Prince--Prince. Need I say more? Tessa is wearing a fabulous jumpsuit and it's purple and black, sequined applique and giving homage to the iconic Prince ruffled blouse: It is costume perfection! The thought and detail put into the entire design and especially those side panel cut-outs is commendable.






Virtue and Moir Canada Free Dance to Pilgrims on a Long Journey by Coeur de Pirate
Latch (Acoustic) by Sam Smith: This dress on Tessa is one of MY TOP FAVORITE COSTUMES for the 2016-2017 Season. She looks Runway Chic, divine and fabulously ethereal all at the same time. The pleated detail is very High Fashion Fab. I usually have a problem with the male partner just being oh-so-boring in black or navy but...WHO CARES??? Tessa looks GORGEOUS It's all about HER! (Sorry Scott!).







Kaetlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje Canada Short Dance to Blues: The Way You Make Me Feel by Judith Hill; Hip Hop: Dangerous and Jam by Michael Jackson: I thought these were great costumes for Canada's Weaver and Poje. I loved hers especially in that it was giving me a little of MJ and A LOT of Yves Saint Laurent "Le Smoking".  







Madison Hubell and Zachary Donohue USA Short Dance to Blues: Feeling Good performed by Nina Simone, Hip Hop Medley--I liked these costumes on USA's Hubbell and Donohue. She wore a jumpsuit with sheer stretch fabric as well as printed panels. And Zachary wore this jacket-and-pants costume which complimented hers--especially with the graphic green and blue printed detail in the back. This was a nice way of incorporating a costume through-line.





Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue USA Free Dance to I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Bootstrap, Can't Help Falling In Love performed by Ingrid Michaelson, Earned It by Bootstrap: Gorgeous, lyrical and right for the music. Her blue-gray dress was beautiful but the color and length was a bit off for my taste. I liked the delicate pleating and flower sequin detail, especially. I also think that the change in Zachary's costume from earlier in the season was a wise decision:



 


Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue USA Free Dance: Grand Prix Finals 2016






Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Short Dance to Blues: Cry For Me

Boogie Woogie: Choo Choo Boogie--I love this Ice Dance couple from Italy. They always have fun, great character-driven ice dances. For their Short Dance, they donned these bold looks. Anna was very 50's fun in a black and white polka dotted dress and Luca was giving Ballroom Dancer Host in his Shawl-collared red and black tuxedo outfit. I really loved her dress and how it flowed and how it was fitted on her...but yet still loose. The gradation of polka dots was perfection.








Maia and Alex Shibutani USA Short Dance to Blues: That's Life performed by Frank Sinatra, Hip Hop: That's Life (remix) performed by Frank Sinatra, Jay Z--I loved these costumes on the Shibutanis; they were chic, modern and a fresh costume perspective while skating to Frank Sinatra and Jay Z. I'm especially a big fan of Maia in a Tuxedo-esque jumpsuit! The sequined/illusion panel is FABULOUS.





Shibutani and Shibutani USA Free Dance to Evolution: Mirror In Mirror by Anne Akiko Meyers, Akira Eguchi--These were pretty costumes that worked well with the music. I especially loved Alex's draped chiffon top; it was a perfect complimentary look to Maia's floaty dress. The royal blue color theme was beautiful.





Madison Chock and Evan Bates of USA Short Dance to Blues: Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood, Hip Hop: Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars--These were interesting, sexy looks from USA's Chock and Bates for their Short Dance. Madison looked punk-tastic in her spiderweb-like crop top with "ripped" sleeves and sexy low-slung faux leather super-skinny pants. Evan was looking like he went to Zara and bought a jersey knit top, under t-shirt and sleek denim skinny pants and...I still liked it.








Madison Chock and Evan Bates Free Dance to Under Pressure by David Bowie, Freddie Mercury: I LOVED these costumes worn by Chock and Bates for their Free Dance to David Bowie and Freddie Mercury. The costumes were chic, modern yet retro and still reflective of the music. Her purple costume with asymmetrical fishtail hemline and blue-and-orange sequin detail was vibrant, fun and HOT! I also liked his delicately sequined knit top that (if you were paying attention) also featured a slight asymmetrical hemline (like hers). 

  


Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron of France Short Dance to Blues: Bittersweet by Lene Riebau, Maxim Illion perf. by Club des Belugas and Swing: Diga Diga Doo by Dorthy Fields, Jimmy McHugh perf. by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: The fabulous Ice Dance pair of Papadakis and Cizeron wore these costumes above for their Short Dance. She wore a blue dress with gold embroidery in the top section. And sexy Guillaume donned a midnight blue jacket with gold detailed lapels, DEEP PLUNGING neckline white shirt and blue pants. If I had any critique it is that I'm still (even after this ENTIRE season!), not sure what these costumes have to do with the music and their skate. They looked more "Romeo & Juliet" Lite but that wasn't really the theme of their music. 








Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron France Free Skate to Stillness by Nest, Oddudua by Aldo Lopez Gavilan, Happiness Does Not Wait by Olafur Arnalds: I think she is absolutely ethereal and Runway Chic Goddess in this ombre-shaded one-shoulder draped costume dress and Guillaume...well, thank goodness that muscle shirt/top is PLUNGING and SLEEVELESS: Tres Bien!



MEN:



Javier Fernandez Spain Short Program to Malaguena performed by Paco de Lucia and Placido Domingo: Javier wore this black costume of a stretch jersey long sleeve top, pants and faux leather suspenders for this skate. I liked the modernist look and not-so-obvious "Flamenco"-like costume. It was chic, if that can be said for a man. Now, if we can just have him work on those flamenco hand movements and make them look a bit less...stilted...I would be very happy! Sorry if I am causing his fans to not like me but...to me, he lacks the style and rhythm that a true Flamenco dancer has.  







Javier Fernandez of Spain Free Program to Trouble, Fever and Jailhouse Rock performed by Elvis Presley: While I think this Elvis music was good for Javier...he just needed a little more sensual rhythm to pull it off (he was a bit robotic and non-Elvis smooth for my taste--kind of like his hand movement to the "Malaguena" in his Short Program). Now, in terms of his costume, this was good. It evoked the "Elvis" look; it was 50's-esque and the bold black-and-white color blocking of his "Bowling Shirt" was effective. 





Boyang Jin China Short Program to Spiderman: Of course, this was "Spiderman"! Hello! I liked the obviousness of the costume in regards to the music. But, I also liked that it wasn't so cheesy "Halloween" costume and done in black and silver-white. It was modern, sleek and on-point.







Boyang Jin Free Skate to La Strada by Nino Rota: I'm always interested when skaters skate to "La Strada". The Fellini film involves a clown reference and therefore, one can go cartoon-y in a hot costume minute. Boyang did not. I liked the bold graphic stripes and black-and-white vest. The costume was about 90% fine, except, part of me wished he may have beaded the stripes on the shirt--in black, white and red sequins; that would have been slightly more impacting and brought the costume to a more "Couture" Jean Paul Gaultier level.





Nathan Chen Short Program Le Corsaire by Adolphe Adam: Nathan wore this black lace top and black pants costume for his Short Program. I liked the simplicity and  elegance of it, especially since, let's just be honest, NO ONE was really paying attention to his costume and instead, watching how many QUADS this young man would do! I liked the great fit and look of a mini cropped bolero jacket.







Nathan Chen USA Free Skate to Polovtsian Dances (from "Prince Igor") by Alexander Borodin: I really liked this late 19th century Russian Royal look of a costume on Nathan. I liked the bright red and gold top/jacket and the intricacy of the trim and sequin applique. I know this may be such a small detail but I especially liked the emerald green brooch at the center front torso as well as waist accent. 







Patrick Chan of Canada Short Program to Dear Prudence and Blackbird by The Beatles: Patrick Chan is not known for his costumes, and more for his fabulous skating. For his SP, he wore this all-black look skating to The Beatles. Normally, I don't like when male figure skaters just wear the black pant-and-shirt look, and I've referenced it as being a bit too "Ross Dress For Less". I think that here, this ensemble worked. I liked the short sleeved shirt, the suspenders and natural-waist trousers style. Part of me wished the suspenders were sequined--at least in matte black crystals!--but yeah, I know--it's Patrick Chan, sequins are not always his thang.







Patrick Chan Canada Free Sate to A Journey by Eric Radford: For this Free Skate, Patrick wore this Tie Dye top and pants outfit. This was (thankfully) a bit more color than we would ever see from him and a nice change. It was sleek and stylish. 







Shoma Uno Japan Short Program to Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra ("Ladies in Lavender" soundtrack) by Nigel Hess--The music suggested lavender but he wore blue. I thought this was a nice costume for Shoma and I especially appreciate the sequined detail of the top.







Shoma Uno Free Skate to Buenos Aires Hora Cero and Barada para un loco by Astor Piazzolla: I loved this Free Skate costume on Shoma. The red and black were perfect for the music and the delicate and intricate sequin detail was beautiful: He was fiery and Toreador fab.







Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Short Program to Let's Go Crazy by Prince: Yes, it's Prince and yes, it's Yuzuru. And yes, I liked it. Purple, sleek and Glam Fabulous! If there is any critique, it's all those necklaces of his...too many unnecessary accessories; I don't care how meaningful they might be...they are distracting!







Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Free Skate to Hope and Legacy by Joe Hisaishi--I love the multicolored draped and gathered stretch chiffon top. Look at that photo: It looks easy-breezy but that top probably took hundreds of hours to get that way. I love how Yuzuru is comfortable with mixing the feminine and pretty, as well as juxtaposing it with the masculine, while also hinting at an old-school "Vintage" figure skating costume vibe. 

ICE STYLE.....2017 World Figure Skating Championships Costumes Recap: LADIES & PAIRS!

Queen Evgenia: Gold medalist Evgenia Medvedeva from Russia during her Short Program at the 2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championships Helsinki Finland


This week/weekend is a VERY IMPORTANT time in international figure skating competitions: It's the 2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championships!! It's like "Miss Universe" or "Miss World" of figure skating (naturally, I have to put it in beauty pageant terms!).





This year, it's doubly important since it also determines the number of entries for each country for the 2018 World Championships and the MOST IMPORTANT 2018 Winter Olympics. This year's Worlds are being held in Helsinki Finland at the Hartwall Arena and medals have already been given in the Ladies and Pairs disciplines. Now that we got all the basic stuff out of the way, it's time for my "Ice Style" Costumes Recap! Let's begin with the Ladies....






Top Three: (L to R) Silver medalist Kaetlyn Osmond of Canada, gold medalist Evgenia Medvedeva of Russia and bronze medalist Gabrielle Daleman of Canada--2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championships Helsinki Finland




Evgenia Medvedeva Russia Short Program to River Flows in You by Lorenzo de Luca, The Winter by Balmorhea: Evgenia wore this blue ombre-shaded costume featuring crystal and blue beading in the top section. The design made her look like she was a beautiful sea creature from the Mediterranean and I liked the ombre multicolored shading at the skirt. The gloves are a little "junior-ish", in my opinion, but in terms of a costume detail, they do help in accentuating her beautiful hand movements...and yes I know, they help her not cut her hands while grabbing her blade for those amazing spins!







Evgenia Medvedeva Russia Free Skate to Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, and Piano Lesson with Grandma by Alexandre Desplat: It's not every day one sees a top ladies' singles figure skater wearing a dress this long as her costume but it's worked for Medvedeva this season. This design had purple-to-lilac ombre shading and an Empire-waist look that featured sequin embroidery. There was almost a Medieval/Game of Thrones look to it providing a somewhat ethereal quality to the background of the somber 9/11-inspired music.





Ashley Wagner USA Short Program to Sweet Dreams (Are Made of These) by Annie Lennox: I have commented on this costume on Wagner throughout this past season and it bears repeating: I LOVE THIS! It's chic, superfab and so right for the Annie Lennox music. Ashley wore this blue asymmetrical design which featured great sequin details on the shoulders, neckline and throughout the costume's torso. I also loved the slight royal blue color "peek-a-boo". And to finish everything off, her smoky eyes and red lipstick were 90's New Wave on-point. Really, this is one of THE BEST costumes of the entire 2016-2017 season!





Kaytlyn Osmond Canada Short Program Sous le ciel de Paris and Milord performed by Edith Piaf: I thought this design was a nice choice considering her music. The neck-tie costume with sequin applique midriff was "Parisian" in its flair and reminded me of the iconic Yves Saint Laurent pussy-bow sheer chiffon blouse. And while I am normally not a fan of the gloves (refer back to Evgenia Medvedeva), I think they were correct in this look.







Kaetlyn Osmond Canada Free Skate to Mimi Tells Her Story (from "La Boheme - The Ballet") by G. Puccini, arranged by K. Hocking and Sono Andati (from "La Boheme") by Giacomo Puccini: The red design worn by Osmond does give hints of a 19th Century corseted dress with the neckline and front pointed bodice detail and therefore I can see the overt "La Boheme" inspiration. It was pretty but part of me wished for more "Skating Couture"!





Gabrielle Daleman Canada Short Program to Acte IV Prelude from "Herodiade", Scene XIV Ballet Finale from "Herodiade" by Jules Massenet: I loved this costume on Daleman.  The music is from "Herodiade" opera which retells the story of John The Baptist, Salome, Herod Antipas and Herodias. She's playing "Salome", I assume and looks the part, in a modern fashionable sense. The black costume is highlighted by the GORGEOUS gold, silver and lilac sequins that form a breastplate of snakes. I'm thinking the costume designer might have taken some inspiration from these "Salome" Opera Divas:













Gabrielle Daleman Canada Free Skate to Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin: Daleman skated a FABULOUS Free Skate at 2017 Worlds and I thought this royal blue sequined costume was PERFECT for the iconic "Rhapsody in Blue" music. I appreciated the varying sizes of the crystals strewn throughout the costume and especially how the larger ones highlighted her neckline and waist. Also, I think it was smart of the costume designer to make her skirt very short to make her not-so-long legs seem longer. Visual Fashion Illusion courtesy of a Figure Skating Costume!





Karen Chen USA Short Program to On Golden Pond by Dave Grusin: OK, when I first saw Karen in this, I thought that she was skating to "Swan Lake", "Black Swan" or "Nutcracker"...you get the picture. But no kids: She skated to "On Golden Pond". And surprisingly, I LOVE it. It was pretty, well made and exquisitely sequined, down to her fingertips. Gorgeous! She debuted this costume at the 2016 NHK Trophy in late November and I'm glad she has stayed with it.







Karen Chen USA Free Skate to Tango Jalousie by Jacob Gade: Tango anyone? Well, for Karen, it was "Si!". Another very good costume for Karen Chen. The silver and red crystals were beautiful and the scroll-like torso detail was very pretty. For such a young lady, this costume was very mature, and in a super chic way! I also loved her sultry makeup, especially those red lips and Señorita eyes.





Carolina Kostner Italy Short Program to God of Thunder by Kitaro, Bonzo's Montreux by John Bonham (Led Zeppelin): Carolina is returning to figure skating after a two-year hiatus (and being suspended for lying about her ex-boyfriend, reportedly concealing the fact that he was using banned illegal performance-enhancing drugs--Yikes!). Well, anyhow...she's BACK! This black and white costume for her Short Program is graphic, modern and void of typical sparkly embellishments the sport's costumes are known for. I liked the gathered top and asymmetry of the look, as well as the chic metallic belt. It was directional (for figure skating!) and fashionable. #love







Mai Mihara Japan Free Skate Cinderella by Patrick Doyle: Mai is all but 17 years old and now she's joined the Senior's rank, but yet, her costume (and, let's be honest, her music choice too!) was a tad bit on the Junior's side. Yes, her costume was very "Cinderella" but there was something about that jewel teal color, sequin work, and off-the-shoulder silhouette that screamed "young". I get it, but...I just wished the costume was taken to a slightly more mature level.









Rika Hongo of Japan Short Program to O Fortuna (from "Carmina Burana") by Carl Orff: This was a fun and bold costume. Rika is kind of known for her costumes and this was not a disappointment for the 2016-2017 season. I loved the multi-colored jewels at the bust and fire-like detail in the costume. It looked well-made and was dramatic.





Speaking of Drama...



Anna Pogorilaya Russia Free Skate to Modigliani Suite by Guy Farley, Le Di a la Caza Alcance by Estrella Morente, Memorial Requiem by Michael Nyman: Anna Pogorilaya is usually a wonderful skater and I always look forward to her costumes...In terms of her Free Skate at the 2017 Worlds, it was a MAJAH failure. Poor thang just kept falling, and falling, and then cried and cried. In terms of her costume, I liked this costume with some reservations. I liked the mix of washed red with gray and the caviar-beaded sequin side-torso panel was beautiful! Anna is kind of known for sometimes being too-costume-y (and kooky) with her looks, but this verged on Runway Ready. The only thing I wasn't a fan of was the awkward cowl draped/pick-up detail of the bottom skirt section; it just looked like a bad Prom Dress from 1992.




PAIRS:


Wenjing Sui and Cong Han China Short Program to Blues for Klook by Eddy Louis: First of all, I am IN LOVE with Wenjing Sui's asymmetrical bob hairstyle! She is definitely a STYLE STAR! These costumes worn for their Short program are nice. There's nothing extraordinary about them but they work--navy blue for the "Blues for Klook" music. 







Wenjing Sui and Cong Han China Free Skate to Bridge Over Troubled Water by Paul Simon: Once again, their skating was amazing and her bobbed hair was the "Style Star" but....I just didn't think these were the right costumes for this skate. Don't get me wrong, their is nothing wrong with these costumes. Wenjing's dress is beautiful. I love the asymmetry, beading and coral color, I just don't get what it has to do with a modern interpretation of "Bridge Over Troubled Water"!! Beautiful Skate, Wrong Costumes!









Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford Canada Free Skate to No, je ne regrette rien performed by Patricia Kaas: I've said this before so I hope it's not news: I thought her costume is two minutes away from looking a bit "Toddlers & Tiaras". I think it's the powder pink and crystal applique work but mainly, I just have a strong abhorrence to a sequined applique neck-piece detail; it's just so Miss America 1996. And then, she added a matching sequined hair clip! Oyyyyy! Oh, and Eric, well, he looked handsome and not Toddlers & Tiaras....so there's that positive. 







Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot Germany Short Program to That Man by Caro Emerald: These costumes were cute, simple and right for the music. Her powder pink sequined-and-chiffon dress was jazz dancer pretty (going along with the music). I also liked her sequined headband accessory. In terms of the guy, I liked that Massot matched her costume's color with the tie. 





Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot of Germany Free Skate to Lighthouse by Patrick Watson: I love these costumes worn by Savchenko and Massot for their Free Skate. They are elegant and subdued with a dash of sparkle with the beautiful over-sized crystals. Hers looks like a figure skating costume version of an Haute Couture Elie Saab gown especially with the sequined waistband. And his, well--I BOW to him for giving me sequins, ombre and semi-sheer. 







Alexa Scimeca Knierim and Chris Knierim USA Short Program Come What May (Moulin Rouge soundtrack): Alexa and Chris were giving purple...in their costumes for their Short Program. I thought these were nice costumes for their "Moulin Rouge" music and I liked her sequined corset-like design and his semi-sheer top with sequin accents.







Evgenia Tarasova and Vladimir Morozov Russia Short Program to Glam (Electro Swing Remix) by Dimie Cat: I liked these costumes, especially her shimmying silver and gold fringed design. I also appreciated his semi-matching vest. The gold metallic colors and fringe accents were impacting on the ice for sure!




Tarasova and Morozov Russia Free Skate to Music by John Miles: The music was a bit 80's and so were their costumes so...I guess that's good.  They went with a blue and black theme with asymmetrical style lines and minimal silver crystal detail. Not sure how necessary those off-white "sleeves" were though; they were odd. Now, I have said this before and will say it again: She looks soooo much like Claire Danes!









Vanessa James and Morgan Cipres France Short Program to Earned It (from "Fifty Shades of Grey") by The Weekend and Maxime Rodriguez: I always look forward to what James and Cipres wear. These two have the most AMAZING bodies and they almost always give fashion folk like me something when it comes to their costumes. For their Short Program they went sexy, 90's Vintage Versace-like (especially with those back straps on James). I especially liked her black-and-nude illusion sequined trimmed top section as well as the crystal-accented shoulders of his Moto jacket. They both look on-trend, fashionable and oh-so-chic!







Vanessa James and Morgan Cipres France Free Skate to Sound of Silence by Disturbed and Maxime Rodriguez: There wasn't much to these all black "costumes" from James and Cipres of France. He wore a black top and deep gray-ish skin-tight pants. And Vanessa donned a black Lycra body suit. It was a bit early 80's Disco but I still think it reflected the music and looked slightly directional. I think the most important part was that they looked SUPER SEXY.






**NEXT UP: Costumes Recap to 2017 World Figure Skating Championships: MEN and ICE DANCE!

NV NICK VERREOS.....UK Fashionistas: NEW Spring 2017 NV NICK VERREOS on QVC UK!

Spring Fashion Fab: Nick Verreos will DEBUT his Spring 2017 "NV Nick Verreos" collection on QVC UK TUESDAY March 28th!


It's all about Spring Fashion right now and I'm excited to be unveiling my latest NV Nick Verreos Spring 2017 collection for QVC UK : I'm flying to London to be on LIVE on QVC UK TUESDAY March 28th to promote my latest NV Nick Verreos designs...



*WHEN: Tuesday March 28th

*TIME: 11:00am and 23:00pm (Local UK time)

*WHERE: QVC UK






Jean Ladies: Sketches of NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Spring 2017 "Mega-Stretch" Jeans


I'm ESPECIALLY THRILLED to be DEBUTING my FIRST EVER NV Nick Verreos Jeans!! Yes, ladies: JEANS! The fabulous "NV" MEGA-stretch boot-cut jean, in TWO on-trend denim shades of Dark Indigo and Medium Wash. Be the FIRST to get your NV Nick Verreos jeans on QVC UK!






Resort and Spring 2017 Inspirations: Santorini, Bora Bora, Tropical Prints


My inspirations for Spring/Summer 2017 include the Greek Islands of Santorini, Mykonos, as well as Bora Bora in French Polynesia. I'm also inspired by bold, colorful flower prints with a tropical edge. All of this will be part of my latest NV Nick Verreos collection EXCLUSIVE to QVC UK!



Here are my EXCLUSIVE fashion sketches of the new NV Nick Verreos QVC UK Spring 2017 Collection:




Resort Holiday Style: Fluttery Dusters, Draped Printed Dresses--NV Nick Verreos Spring 2017 QVC UK





From Pool...Beach..to Shopping...to Cocktails! NV Nick Verreos Spring 2017 QVC UK




**TUNE IN TO QVC UK Tuesday March 28th but if you want to be THE FIRST to get the latest FABULOUS NV Nick Verreos designs...you can SHOP NOW HERE!!

FASHION SCHOOL WITH NICK.....NEW VIDEO: How To Draw A Croquis for Flat Sketches

Croquis Boy: Nick Verreos showing How To Draw A Croquis for Flat Sketches--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube


In my latest "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube tutorial video, I decided to take a break from Draping and Patternmaking, and do a SKETCHING video! For this new video, I wanted to show everyone How To Draw Your Very Own Croquis For Flat Sketches!








Croquis and Flat Sketches: Nick Verreos "How To Draw A Croquis" Video, Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube


A Croquis is what lots of designers, assistant designers, fashion design interns, students, etc., use to help them draw fashion/garments especially when showing "quick sketches" or doing the preliminary drawings for a collections and eventually, full-fledged Technical Sketches. You can find out A LOT MORE about Croquis in my book "A Passion For Fashion: Achieving Your Dreams One Thread At A Time", which you can get HERE!






Nine Head Croquis Drawing: Nick Verreos "How To Draw A Croquis" Video, Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube






Click below to Watch "How To Draw A Croquis" Video on "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" YouTube:

FASHION SCHOOL WITH NICK.....NEW VIDEOS: How To Drape Pants: Part One and Two!

Pants 101: Nick Verreos "How to Drape Pants" YouTube Video--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Channel


In my latest "Fashion School With Nick Verreos" video on YouTube, it's time to DRAPE Pants! I decided to divide this "How to Drape Pants" Video into two parts. In "Part One", I show how to prepare your muslin for your pants drape using tried-and-tested measurements that will make your Pants Drape much easier (you can input your own measurements to custom-make your own pants drape!).






Have the Proper Measurements: Part One of "How To Drape Pants"--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube 


In "Part Two", the video focuses on the actual Draping of your pants--where I drape one half of a pair of pants; in other words, the front and back of one leg of the pants...




Smoooooooth...Don't Pull!--Nick Verreos showing how to drape pants in "How To Drape Pants: Part Two"--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube





Skinny Pant Fab: Nick Verreos "How To Drape Pants" Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube 


Click here to Watch "How To Drape Pants: Part One"--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Video:






Click here to Watch "How To Drape Pants: Part Two"--Fashion School With Nick Verreos YouTube Video:

TRAVELING IN STYLE.....Birthday and 25th Anniversary in Paradise: Playa del Carmen + Tulum Mexico

Nick Verreos--Enjoying the fabulous pool--Paradisus La Parla Pla del Carmen Mexico


Last month, I took a week-long holiday to Mexico with my better half David. There were two main reasons: It was going to be my (look it up on Wikipedia!) Birthday and our 25th Anniversary of being together. After much TripAdvisor deliberation, we decided to go to Playa del Carmen Mexico.








Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen "Royal Service" Resort Pool


We both wanted a relaxing-- just-the-two-of-us holiday-- and as usual, we also wanted sun, a pool, a beach, lots of pool cocktails and NOTHING ELSE TO DO, thank you very much. We stayed at the FABULOUS Spain-owned Melia Motels Paradisus La Perla Resort in Playa del Carmen , an all-inclusive resort located about an hour away from Cancun.






Palm Tree Beauty: A cenote (natural pit/sinkhole) in Playa del Carmen, Mexico


The resort itself is divided into a "Family" (kids allowed) Resort section--the Paradisus Esmeralda --and the "Adults Only"--the Paradisus La Perla. I love me some kids but...it's MY BIRTHDAY and 25th Anniversary with David so I wanted some peace & quiet, so...yeah, we stayed at the "Adults Only" section.






Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Lobby area


The Paradisus La Perla Resort was PERFECT! It was an all-inclusive resort that featured the pools we wanted, as well as beach and drinks and DELICIOUS dining. We booked a Swim-up "Royal Service" room which was SOOOOOO WONDERFUL:






My Home for a Week: Swim Up "Royal Service" Suite--Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Mexico







La Piscina: Nick Verreos enjoying the "Swim-up" private pool--Paradisus La Perla Resort Playa del Carmen


As part of our Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Royal Service Resort stay, we had our own "Butler". His name was Gilberto Torres and he was OUTSTANDING!!! When David and I checked in, the staff briefly asked us why we were there and naturally we mentioned my birthday/25th Anniversary. We thought nothing of it until...the day of my birthday--after spending it all day by the pool (of course!), we returned to our room and found it filled with MANY balloons, a delicious white chocolate cake and bottle of wine, as well as a lovely "Happy Birthday" note from Gilberto, our "Royal Service" Butler:






Feliz C umpleaños : Happy Birthday to Me--at Paradisus La Perla Resort Playa del Carmen Mexico


The day after my birthday was Valentine's Day and...




Happy Valentine's Day: This is what David and I found in our room after a day by the pool! LOVE me some Gilberto "Royal Service" Butler; He's THE BEST--Paradisus La Perla Resort Playa del Carmen Mexico


But, it didn't end there--the following day, we got back to our room--after a day at the beach (not the pool, thank you very much!), and found...




Happy 25th Anniversary: A rose-petaled path to the outdoors Jacuzzi, filled with soapy/bubbled water and a bottle of wine. David and I could not believe it! Gilberto had really OUTDONE himself! --when I saw him--I went up to him and hugged him and slapped him the way I do to someone I ABSOLUTELY want to say "Thank You!" and MUCHISIMAS GRACIAS!





Civilized Breakfast: Eggs Benedict with Sauteed Mushrooms--"La Palapa" Royal Service Restaurant, Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort


The Food: Prior to flying to Mexico and staying at Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen, we had gone on TripAdvisor to see what the reviews were of the food and restaurants at the Resort. There were several comments complaining about the food, saying that it wasn't "up to par" or "not good", etc. Well, let me tell you, I don't know what these people are used to in terms of restaurants and food--maybe they dine at Three-Star Michelin-rated restaurants every day of the week but what David and I experienced was quite exceptional cuisine. We had one hiccup when we ended up at the "Family Resort" Buffet (as opposed to the more "civilized "Adults Only" one) but it was our mistake (we should have known when we saw the ten strollers parked outside of the Buffet restaurant) and alas, we never attended that "Family Buffet" ever again--unless I had a craving for chicken tenders! But other than this, the restaurants we ate at in the Resort were WONDERFUL and the food: Delicious. Here are some samplings:








Lunch by the Pool: Flank Steak Burrito and Chicken Quesadillas--Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Poolside Dining





Latin and Asian Infusion: Mixed Tempura Ceviche and Salad Appetizers--"Fuego" Restaurant, Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort





Asian Flavors: Shrimp Pad Thai Main Entree--"Bana" Restaurant, Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort





Cheese Cream Soup (Top) and Grilled Grouper Main Entree (Lower) at "La Palapa" Royal Service Restaurant--Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort





Tomato Cream Soup Starter and Shrimp Ravioli Main Entree from "Vento" Restaurant--Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort





Argentinian Delights: Empanadas Appetizers and Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce Main Entree at "The Grill" Restaurant--Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort




Besides the DELICIOUS restaurants and food offerings, there were also the native inhabitants of the Resort which made for some "interesting" sights during our daily walks:






Permanent Residents at Paradisus La Perla Play del Carmen Resort




During our week at Paradisus La Perla Resort, David and I decided to take a Day Excursion to Tulum and see the Tulum Archaeological Ruins as well as spend a day at the beach:






Nick Verreos and David Paul at Tulum's Zone of Archaeological Monuments--Tulum Mexico


We took a sightseeing tour to the Tulum Archeological Ruins . It was a VERY HOT DAY but it was worth it! The tour itself took only several hours...




Hat Boys: David Paul and Nick Verreos at the Tulum Archeological Rins--Tulum Mexico





Tulum Ruins--Tulum Mexico


Afterward, we were taken to the GORGEOUS Playa Pescadores (Fisherman's Beach) in Tulum, Mexico:






Playa Heaven: The beach was PERFECT--white sand, warm water...I would have spent the entire rest of the day here...if I didn't have to get back to our Paradisus La Perla Resort in time for the all-inclusive dinner that we had already paid for (!)--Nick Verreos at Playa Pescadores, Tulum Mexico





We'll Miss Playa del Carmen: David Paul and Nick Verreos--Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen Resort Beach









Muchisimas Gracias Gilberto! (L to R) David Paul, Gilberto Torres and Nick Verreos)--Saying "Adios" to Gilberto Torres, our "Paradisus La Perla Royal Service" Butler, was difficult. I made sure to uncomfortably hug him for a long time and compliment his new haircut! Gilberto was THE BEST!!!









Until Next Time Playa del Carmen! ADIOOOOSSSSS!!!!!