Pharrell Williams designs limited-edition line for Uniqlo (United States Of America)

Popular American rapper Pharrell Williams has entered into a new collaborative deal with the Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo.   As part of his I Am Other creative collective, the chart topping ‘Happy’ hitmaker has created a new line of limited-edition T-shirts and hats for the retailer.   Slated to be available for sale from mid-April, 2014, onwards, the collection will be sold under the Uniqlo’s re-branded printed T-shirt line The New Model T.   Other than designing the range, the 40-year-old musician will also appear in all the visual campaigns of the collection, which will be sold in nearly 14 countries, including the United Kingdom.    Founded in 1949, Uniqlo is a casual wear designer, manufacturer and retailer with operations in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, France, Malaysia, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Indonesia.   Apart from the Uniqlo line, Pharrell Williams is also involved in a sustainable fashion project called RAW for the Oceans with the famous denim manufacturer G-Star RAW.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Nicole Scherzinger poses in her debut Missguided line (United States Of America)

The countdown for American singer-songwriter NicoleScherzinger’s first-ever clothing collection for the UK-based online retailer Missguided has begun.   Ahead of the launch of the line on March 11, 2014, the 35-year-old has offered a sneak peek in to the hotly anticipated 30-piece self-designed range through a set of just released campaign images.   Shot in the beautiful outskirts of Los Angeles, the advertorialimages feature the songwriter posing in some of the pieces from her Nicole Scherzinger X Missguided line.   Based on a very on-trend palette of cobalt blue and monochromes, the pictures showcase cut-out bodycon dresses, leatherette biker pants and colour block dresses.   The line also includes an array of sporty separates, jumpsuits, skirts, bodysuits and tops.   Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, the former Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole is also a famous television personality and philanthropist.   Founded in 2009, Missguided specializes in delivering key catwalk looks and celebrity inspired women’s fashion clothing and accessories.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Toronto Arts & Fashion Week returns in April (Canada)

|FAT| Arts & Fashion Week, Toronto’s celebrated multi-arts stage for cutting-edge fashion design & art, returns April 22-26, 2014 for five spectacular nights of over 50+ runway shows and fashion-focused photography exhibits, art installations, performances and films.   Entering its 9th year, |FAT| continues to discover notable talent before they gain mainstream recognition; launching artists and designers into the limelight.   It’s a place to witness new movements in fashion, art and culture, providing a platform for over 200 emerging and contemporary designers, artists and models to unleash a stimulating and inspired fusion of fashion and art.

Arts & Fashion Week

Sisley debuts new concept store in Berlin (Italy)

Sisley debuted its new concept store in Berlin, the first of its kind worldwide. The shop, at 12 Neue Schönauser Strasse, is in a highly prestigious location among some of the most exciting retailers in the city's Mitte neighbourhood: 14 oz and The Kooples.    The new Sisley concept store Rich&Raw, which encapsulates the brand’s fashion – and, at the same time, its genuine, contemporary and cosmopolitan identity – transforms shopping into a sensorial experience and the brand into a form of performance art. In its new “home” (the first Berlin store is in a first class location, Neue Schönhauser Strasse 12) Sisley finds itself alongside some of the German capital’s coolest shops, including Mitte 14oz and The Kooples.    Those who enter Sisley undergo a novel, dreamlike experience, discovering a magical place where the future cohabits with cultural and historical signals from the past. In order to enhance the impact of the Sisley brand, each new shop will have its own distinctive nature and unique features. The concept for the new Berlin store is inspired by Bernardo Bertolucci’s masterpiece The Dreamers: the atmosphere is that of a period Paris apartment, originally luxurious, whose young occupants endow it with a sense of freedom, style and seduction.    The vitality of Sisley is expressed in sophisticated interiors, which despite bearing the marks of time, are sensual yet pure – like the dreams of youth. In tune with this romantically decadent atmosphere, the walls are characterized by peeling paint; a preference is given to oval shapes, present in the mirrors, tables and other items of furniture. The floors are in a black and white chequer pattern, made of salvaged wood. The ceiling, with a shiny lake green lacquer finish, reflects the warm and suffused glow emanating from the cognac-coloured chandeliers.    Together with the natural light, and filtered by black grilles, the overall effect is that of a sensual dusk. The changing rooms, closed off by fabric panels reminiscent of old white sheets covering furniture in empty houses, have unfinished walls revealing the brickwork.   An ideal setting for the presentation of Sisley S/S 14, which proposes dynamic, contemporary cuts forwomens wear in keeping with the spirit of Berlin. The palette features full, brilliant colours for masculine-cut suits revisited with sleek, sexy proportions; body-hugging, colour-block dresses; waist-fitted trench coats; and Modernist jumpsuits.    There are also articles with a younger, bohemian touch in authentic The Dreamers style: super-light maxi skirts, long muslin dresses, silk tops with romantic yet goth-like embroidery. Plus lots of denim: faded, studded, bleached effect, to wear boldly as a total look. His wardrobe has a more casual style. Dominated by electric blue, it features an original jungle print. And for the unpredictable sky over Berlin, the innovative, windproof and rainproof technical parkas are a must.    Clothes and accessories are displayed naturally on freestanding rails, easy to move, so that the layout can be rearranged effortlessly, according to the demands of the collections, without impacting the store’s atmosphere. This flexible solution, which preserves the location’s ambience, also renders the store the ideal location for hosting events.

Benetton

Decades’ co-owner Christos Garkinos to launch line for HSN (United States Of America)

Christos Garkinos, the owner of the Los Angeles-based luxury boutique Decades, is all set to launch his first-ever collection for the US-based 24/7 television shopping channel Home Shopping Network (HSN).   Titled as ‘eureka by Christos Garkinos’, the spring-2014 collection features summery long-sleeved peasant blouses in coral and blue-green shades, sequined pencil skirts and knitted fisherman sweaters in hues of white, violet and coral.   Meant to flatter all body types, the line also includes off-white and blue sweater jackets, black long-sleeved dresses with ruched detailing on sides and printed or pin tucked chiffon shirtdresses with slips.   The collection will be available for sale both at HSN TV channel and on HSN website from mid-March 2014 onwards.   Launched in 1982, the HSN has earlier collaborated with several well-known designers like Colleen Atwood and Reem Acra.   Garkinos co-owns the celebrity favoured international shopping destination Decades with his partner Cameron Silver.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

M Couture store opens with sparkling designer creations (India)

Buoyed by the emergence of Delhi as the fashion capital, the city was enthralled by the launch of M Couture – a multi- designer store brand which brings you the finest of rising couturiers of Indian fashion.    With a fresh take on Indian ethnic wear by talented designers, the remarkable collection showcased at the store reflects the modernity of the Indian woman through a range of ethnic and fusion wear that is excellent in its design, elegantly tailored and exceptionally finished.    Currently on showcase at M Couture are the effervescent designs of Gaurav Gupta and the exquisite works of young and upcoming couturiers like Ohaila Khan, Shubhangini Singh, Bhaavya Bhatnagar, Shallabh Mittal, Sonal Kalra Ahuja & Sejal Niravdekar, with many more designers planned ahead.    On the occasion of the launch, Mr. Sidhant Keshwani, the man behind M Couture stated, “While our range covers lehengas, anarkalis, gowns and suits, the aesthetic is contemporary, chic and progressive. Every garment is finished with finesse with additional access to our bespoke tailoring and personal styling services – all under one roof.”   Seen at the launch were trendsetters, fashionistas and fashion enthusiasts of the capital including Shaina Chadha Kohli, Bhaavya Bhatnagar, Prateek, Sonal K Ahuja & Shubhangini Singh amongst others.

M Couture

Beyoncé dons Versace at Mrs. Carter world tour in Glasgow (Scotland)

After sporting stage costumes from well-known labels like Givenchy, Dsaquared2 and Emilio Pucci, the famous American singer Beyoncé has now chosen to don customized haute couture outfits from the house of Atelier Versace during her ongoing The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour. The 32-year-old hitmaker was recently seen in not one but three back to back ensembles at her stage performances, held in Glasgow, Scotland. The singer was spotted wearing a crystal overlay dress teamed with a black leather crop top, an armour-like white and silver sequined mini dress with leather straps and a chainmail jacket with her favourite number and words like Bow Down etched on the back. Owned by the Milan-based fashion house Versace, Atelier Versace specializes in high-end haute couture pieces. Started in April 15, 2013, The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, which has already grossed a sum of about US$ 188.6 million, will end on March 27, 2014.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO ALL OUR READERS!!!!!!!!!

 

Chantal Thomass designs for French Open series (France)

After designing luxury lingerie for several years, the famous French designer Chantal Thomass has embarked on a new journey with the French tennis tournament, Roland Garros.   The designer has partnered with the forthcoming French Open series to create a sports-inspired ready-to-wear collection for the tennis fans attending the Parisian stadium.   According to WWD, the designer has taken cues from the 1920s tennis garbs and the late French tennis champ Suzanne Lenglen for the feminine 11-piece line.   Slated to be sold exclusively at the Roland Garros stadium from May 24 till the end of the tournament on June 8, 2014, the range will feature pussy-bow polo shirts, pleated skirts, fishnet visors, tops and tunics.   Chantal Thomass started her design career in the late 1960s with a ready-to-wear line, made from flannel and lurex stitches, for Terebatine.    One of the major tennis tournaments in the world, the upcoming edition of French Open will take place from May 25 to June 8, 2014.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Designer Surily unveils classical Valentine’s apparel line (India)

This Valentines Day dress to impress, beads and shades of bright reds and maroons is what designer Surily Goel brings to the table.Red symbolic of love and passion spells class and elegance in fashion.  With a vast array of outfits to offer for this day, designer Surily Goel lends a contemporary twist to her collection of classic beautiful dresses, skirts filled with mirror sequence and simple skirts with tribal prints, adding the bohemian touch.  “The hallmark of my designs are simplicity and elegance. Dress romantic with flowy cuts, pretty colours for that perfect evening out with loved ones ”,says Surily Goel.

SURILY GOEL

Tony Ward shows romantic & modern structures apparel range (Lebanon)

Tony Ward’s Spring-Summer 2014 Couture collection is inspired by Architecture and origami flowers which he imagines in full bloom, reinterpreting them through cuts, shapes and volumes.   In this collection he combines a romantic vision with modern structures, translating them through a playful approach to colour, fabric and lines.   The softness of lilac, yellow, silver, and blush are strengthened and balanced by graphic uses of black and white.   The fabrics of the collection are a mixture between duchess satin, hand-painted silks, silk chiffon, gazar, embroidered tulle and macramé lace.   The striking silhouettes are created with faultless precision and workmanship, prominently shown in hundreds of visible cuts. Floral and geometrical shapes, both irregular and fragmented, hold a dominant place in this collection defined by countless three-dimensional elements.

Tony Ward

Ralph Lauren Q3 FY14 net income higher y-o-y

Ralph Lauren Corporation reported net income of $237 million, or $2.57 per diluted share, for the third quarter of Fiscal 2014, compared to net income of $216 million, or $2.31 per diluted share, for the third quarter of Fiscal 2013.   The Company's Board of Directors authorized an additional $500 million stock repurchase program permitting the Company to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock, subject to market conditions.   This amount is in addition to the $230 million available at the end of the third quarter of Fiscal 2014 as part of a previously authorized stock repurchase program, bringing the Company's total current authorizations to $730 million.   Highlights:  -Third Quarter Net Revenues Increased 9% to $2.0 Billion -Earnings Per Diluted Share Increased 11% to $2.57 in the Third Quarter -The Company Raises its Fiscal 2014 Revenue Outlook to the Top End of its Previous    “We’ve accomplished a lot in the first nine months of the year,” said Ralph Lauren, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “The accelerated revenue and profit growth we achieved this quarter across all markets is a tribute to the enduring strength and global appeal of the World of Ralph Lauren.    Momentum was strong across our diverse brand portfolio that includes the pinnacle of luxury with Ralph Lauren Collection and Purple Label, as well as Polo, Denim & Supply, Chaps and Club Monaco.    We are excited to build on that momentum by continuing to expand in new categories, like our growing accessories business, and launching women’s Polo, which will be heralded into the market when we open our Fifth Avenue Polo flagship in New York later this year. I am confident we have the right strategies to accomplish our goals and I couldn’t be more optimistic about the prospects ahead.”

Ralph Lauren

Kelly Brook unveils V-Day lingerie line for New Look

After her last Christmas treat for the British retailer New Look, the English model and actress Kelly Brook is back again with a special Valentine’s Day lingerie collection for the same global fashion purveyor.   The 34-year-old television presenter has designed an ultra feminine innerwear range, made from shimmering soft satins and delicate lace.   Based on a palette of dark blue, racy red, soft rose, classy black and pristine white, the pieces include a polka dot camisole and brief set, a vintage-inspired push-up bra and embroidered balconettes.   Modelled by the curvy brunette star herself, the line also features suspender belts, Brazilian knickers, thongs, babydoll dresses and body suits.   Founded in 1969, New Look operates through a network of high street stores in the UK, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, the Republic of Ireland, Malta, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, Azerbaijan and Poland.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

First-ever exhibit on Greek costumes outside Greece

For the first time in history, a collection of nearly 40 original ancient Greek costumes, replete with signature pleats, geometric designs and intricate embroidery, has been put up on display outside the country.   The Hellenic Centre in London is hosting ‘Patterns of Magnificence: Tradition and Reinvention in Greek Women’s Costume’, an exhibit featuring clothes, both everyday and formal wears, from the 18th to early 20th century.   Curated by fashion historian and costume designer Ionana Papantoniou, the display includes a richly embroidered costume from Astypalaia, part of the island group Dodecanese, a selection of fabrics from Stefanoviki, Magnesia and a brocade dress from Janina, Epiru.   Sourced from the country’s Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation and the Benaki Museum, the exhibit also showcases a court dress worn by the first queen of independent Greece, Amalia of Oldenburg, and an outfit belonging to the queen’s late 19th century successor, Olga, a Russian-born consort of George I.   Other than the featured exhibits, a limited edition scarf collection, inspired by the costumes, designed by Greek accessories designer Athena Procopiou, is available for sale at the same venue.   Talks and panel discussions related to Greek fashion will be conducted by eminent fashion personalities like Greek-Austrian born designer Marios Schwab, on the sidelines of the exhibit, which would run till March 2, 2014.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Gucci hires US show jumper Jessica in equestrian team

Gucci is pleased to announce that its relationship with the equestrian world is to be further enhanced by the arrival of American champion show jumper Jessica Springsteen, who joins the House’s team of equestrian ambassadors.   To celebrate this, Frida Giannini, Gucci’s Creative Director, has developed a riding collection especially for Jessica. This collection marks the fourth year of equestrian activity since Gucci decided to return to the world of horse riding in December 2009, after a 20-year hiatus, when the fashion house assumed the title sponsorship of the Gucci Masters in Paris and also signed a sponsorship agreement with Charlotte Casiraghi for her participation in the Global Championship Tour in both 2010 and 2011.   Now, following on from its ongoing partnership with Charlotte Casiraghi and her friend, show jumper Edwina Tops-Alexander, and the addition of a male ambassador earlier this year in the person of French actor, film director and keen show jumper Guillaume Canet, Gucci welcomes Jessica, and has designed an equestrian collection especially for her.   “Jessica is a great horsewoman, with a very exciting and positive riding style,” says Frida Giannini, Gucci’s Creative Director. “Her passion for horse riding, and show jumping in particular, is something that I can really relate to, as I have been riding ever since I was a little girl. Jessica brings the elegant, dynamic spirit of Gucci alive, and I have ensured that the design of this new wardrobe provides her with pieces that manage to be both technically correct and stylish.”   The creativity and research behind this new wardrobe are a testament to the traditions of Gucci craftsmanship and innovation. The collection includes technical clothing and accessories for show jumping and training that also epitomise the style and glamour of horse riding.   A key feature of the collection is the Gucci crest, which Giannini took from the Gucci archives in 2008 and has reintroduced to the House. The motif originated in the early 1950s, and features a heraldic shield incorporating the figure of a knight in armour holding a suitcase and handbag in place of a sword and shield.

Museo del Tessuto hosts exhibit on Gianfranco Ferré (Italy)

An exhibition, paying homage to the late Italian fashion maestro Gianfranco Ferré, is going on at the Museo del Tessuto, Prato in Italy.   Scheduled to run through June 15, 2014, the exhibit aims to highlight the designer’s most celebrated iconic creation of all times—the white shirt.   The display features a collection of nearly 27 well-structured and finely detailed white shirts, created during the 30-year-long career span of the Legnano-born talent.   The major highlights of the exhibit include the huge Painter shirt, the maxi collared and sleeved bustier style broken down shirt, a 1982’s silk organza and cotton pique number and a crepe de chine silk scarf wrapped piece dating back to 1991.   The display also showcases a lace, chiffon and silk satin made bridal gown like shirt with a train and the famous long grosgrain ribbon gown from the label’s Spring/Summer 2006 range.   Other than the clothing exhibits, the event titled ‘la camicia bianca secondo me. Gianfranco Ferré’, which translates to ‘My idea of a white shirt. Gianfranco Ferré’ in English, also features drawings, technical details, sketches, photographs, advertising images and editorials, catwalk videos and installations.   Additionally, workshops, meetings, conferences and events related to the designer will also be organized on the sidelines of the exhibition.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Canadian museum exhibits Geisha Ichimaru’s kimonos (Canada)

The mystery surrounding the enigmatic lives of exotic Kimono wearing Japanese Geishas has always enthralled people and now an exhibit unfolding the enchanting life of one of the most famous Geishas of the 20th century, Ichimaru, is on at the Textile Museum of Canada, Toronto.   Titled as ‘From Geisha to Diva: The Kimonos of Ichimaru’, the event aims to chart the fascinating journey of Ichimaru’s evolution from a full-time Geisha to a highly successful recording artist through an exquisite collection of her sumptuous hand-crafted Kimonos and other personal belongings.   Originally organized by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, British Columbia, the display includes a cream-coloured kimono decorated with peony, phoenix bird and cherry blossom embroidery, a homongi (a kimono style for semi-formal occasions) adorned with motifs of bridge, riverbank and willow tree.   Scheduled to run through May 25, 2014, the exhibit also features a special kimono featuring the spring wind characters, pointing towards the vocalist’s first hit number, the theme song of the 1933 movie Nure Tsubame (Wet Swallow), as well as documents relating to Ichimaru’s life.   Started in 2001, the exhibit has earlier travelled to locations like the prestigious National Geographic Society Museum in Washington D.C. and the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Pure London hosts new brands for AW’14 (United Kingdom)

As London Olympia prepares to open its doors to the next edition of Pure London, the newly edited sections of the show are set to welcome a vast number of first-time exhibitors.   Organised by i2i Events Group, Pure London has seen an 8% year-on-year increase in new brands signing up to exhibit across all areas of the show including fashion, footwear and accessories.   Following increased investment in the show from parent company i2i Events Group, Pure London has attracted many brands to the show this season, wanting to experience the event for the first time.   In addition to all of the changes to the show, which will be debuted via the three new ready-to-wear sections Agenda, Allure and Aspire, Pure London has also strengthened its partnership with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI). Working together, Pure London and the UKTI are supporting British brands and designers to showcase their collections, providing them with a platform to reach UK and international buyers.   As a result of the investment in the show, first-time exhibitor numbers have increased and now stand at well over 200. These include the likes of Humanoid, Stella Nova, Yuzzo, Mandkhai, Whiite, Kilian Kerner, 2LOVE TONY COHEN, Day Birger et Mikkelsen, Olivia Burton and Paul & Joe Sister.    A blend of quirky feminine fashion and wardrobe staples, Danish brand Stella Nova will showcase their latest collection in the Agenda section. Putting a modern twist on timeless classics, the brand plays emphasis to having fun with fashion. Portuguese womenswear brand Katty Xiomara will also exhibit in Agenda.   The epitome of romance and elegance, their designs combine understated contours with intricate embellishments and detailing. Fluid lines and enhanced silhouettes meet with a mix of patterns, textures and colours for a wholly feminine collection.     Also new to Agenda is French ready-to-wear brand, NUE 19.04, whose upscale collection sees a subtle alchemy of roughness, rock attitude and sensuality. Another brand debuting at Pure London this season is Amsterdam-based 2LOVE TONY COHEN. The collection is focused on femininity, luxury and creation and inspired by drapes and flowers.   Launching their anticipated AW14 collection, Day Birger et Mikkelsen will also exhibit in Agenda for the first time.   Barbara Lindroth at Day Birger et Mikkelsen commented: “We are happy to participate at PURE and we hope to reach out to a large number of independent accessories stockists around the UK and hopefully also Ireland. We will also showcase a couple of ready-to-wear pieces to allow the customers to get a taste of the full DAY universe.”

Vizyon adds Pantone ‘Color of the Year’ to its collection (India)

Step out in style this season as Vizyon adds the pantone colour of the year to your wardrobe.   In bold cuts and breezy fabrics, these pieces are easy to wear and exude a hint of femininity and sensuality.    So dress trendy in this vibrant and magical shade of radiant orchid that has been named as the hue of 2014.   And for the less experimental, there are luxurious pieces in gold with subtle undertones of champagne that are perfect for a night of sartorial elegance.

Vizyon

David Bailey turns fashion designer

David Bailey might have once dubbed fashion as the "most boring thing in the world", but his work within the industry shows no sign of wavering.

In a diversion from his photography portfolio, the 76-year-old creative has teamed up with East London's The Bleach Room to create a series of six art printed tees.

Based on a handful of Bailey's famous celebrity portraits,Selfridges is stocking T-shirts printed with the faces of Mick Jagger, Johnny Depp, Michael Caine, Boy George, Grace Jones and John Lennon. For fans, the collaboration provides a unique opportunity to own, and wear, a slice of the iconic photographer's work for just £70.

Bailey's fashion endeavour coincides with the Hugo-boss backed exhibition, titled Bailey's Stardust, which will launch in the National Portrait Gallery in February. As the largest retrospective of Bailey's career to date, the photographer, who "was never that interested in fashion", sure knows how to get us excited.

Burberry pledges to banish toxins from its clothing

British heritage label Burberry has responded to 'hazardous chemicals' allegations carried out by Greenpeace-led protests by pledging to remove potentially harmful substances from its factories by 2020.

It was only last week that Greenpeace hit out at the brand after an investigation determined that harmful substances were present in 82 garments by 12 brands including H&M, Gap, American Apparel and Disney. Burberry was lambasted for the suspected chemicals being present in the metallic purple shirt modelled by 11-year-old Romeo Beckham in its spring/summer 2013 campaign.

Evidence proved that the Tunisia-made £175 shirt contained relatively high levels of nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPES), man-made chemicals often used in detergents. NPEs degrade to nonylphenols (NP), which can interfere with hormones. The statement by the campaigning group also revealed each of the 12 brands tested sold children's items containing 'hazardous chemicals.'

In a formal response released on January 24, Burberry said: "All Burberry products are safe and fully adhere to international environmental and safety standards. We have an active programme dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of our supply chain, working in collaboration with our suppliers and NGOs. Greenpeace is aware of our work, which includes the commitment to eliminate from our supply chain the release of chemicals that have an environmental impact."

Despite this however, the British label has now pledged to remove all suspect chemicals from its factories by 2020 and inches Greenpeace's Detox campaign effort even closer to its goal, which urges major clothing brands to commit to zero discharge of all toxic chemicals by 2020.

lze Smit, Detox campaigner at Greenpeace International said to the Daily Mail:"Burberry's Detox commitment to rid us of these hazardous little monsters represents a new chapter in the story of toxic-free fashion," adding: "In taking this landmark step, Burberry has listened to their customers' demands and joins the ranks of brands acting on behalf of parents everywhere to give this toxic nightmare the happy ending it deserves."

She added that the move 'raises the bar for the luxury sector' in the lead-up to fashion weeks worlwide.

Seville hosts second edition of ‘We Love Flamenco’ catwalk (Spain)

With the spring season waiting just around the corner, the Andalusian women in Spain who are busy putting the final touches to their exuberant Flamenco costumes grabbed an eyeful feast of vibrant outfits through the recently concluded second edition ‘We Love Flamenco’ catwalk.   Held in Seville, the capital and largest city of the autonomous community of Andalusia, the event showcased an array of the voluminous petticoat and tight-fit blouse ensembles decorated with polka dots and ruffles.    Designers like Maria Jose Collantes, Pitusa Gasul, Javier Jimenez, Inma Torre, Manuela Romero, Macias Marga, Monica Mendez, Pol Nuñez, Viviana Orio, Carmen Fitz, Marieta, El Nene, Manuela Macias and Rocio Olmedo showcased their bright orange and fluorescent purple hued collections.   Part of the proceeds from the Flamenco event, which was organized by Spanish model and television actress Laura Sanchez, had been forwarded to charities like Sandra Ibarra, a charitable foundation dedicated to fight against cancer.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

Designer Andres Aquino to show at Couture Fashion Week

“Femme Jolie”, Andres Aquino’s new couture luxury fashion line for petite women, will be shown on the runway at 8:00 pm on Sunday February 16, 2014. Part of the final day of Couture Fashion Week’s 19th season, the fashion show will be held at the New Yorker Hotel in New York City. This season Andres Aquino will present two totally different fashion shows dedicated to two different sets of women at the prestigious New York event: “Mon Amour” a couture collection to be shown at 8:00 pm on Saturday February 15, 2014, and the “Femme Jolie” collection for petite women. The “Femme Jolie” show will celebrate petite women everywhere by bringing some of the most beautiful women in the world to walk on the catwalk including prominent beauty queens, socialites and other surprise guests. It promises to be an evening of exceptional fun and beauty. In addition to being a fashion designer, Andres Aquino is also the founder of Couture Fashion Week New York. He is noted for thinking outside the box when it comes to fashion, and this new collection is no exception as he breaks ranks with the status quo by recognizing the multitudes of petite fashion-conscious women of the world. Andres Aquino has presented collections at major fashion events in New York City, Miami and Palm Beach as well as in Dubai, Romania, the Dominican Republic, India, St. Croix, Mexico, and other countries. His work has been featured in publications and media worldwide including Collezioni, Book Moda, Fashion TV and many more.

Couture Fashion Week

Chanel features sportswear-inspired couture collection (France)

An immaculate, glowing white décor played as an apt backdrop for French luxury fashion house Chanel’s sportswear-inspired couture collection, showcased on the third day of ongoing Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week.   Accessorised with embroidered sneakers and sporty knee and elbow caps, the 65-piece Spring/Summer 2014 line was based on a pastel palette of powder pink, pristine white and pale violet hues. Designed under the guidance of the brand’s creative director of German origin Karl Lagerfeld, the range included corseted waist tweed dresses, cropped A-line sheath tops, slim feathery beaded evening gowns, thigh-length flapper tunics and a bejewelled bridal gown with a long sweeping train.   Bouchra Jarrar, the French fashion designer who has recently been given the haute couture appellation by the French fashion industry governing body Chambre Syndicale de la haute couture, made her official debut as the permanent couturier at the prestigious soiree. Laying emphasis on pants, her 20-piece line was made from English flannel, suede, and patent and raw leather. Adorned with feathers, metallic threads and vinyl strips, the collection showcased gently flared black pants, slim stovepipe trousers, sequined boleros and free flowing halter neck satin gowns.   The jet setting globetrotting woman of today was in the mind of Italian fashion maestro Armani while making his haute couture collection. Blurring the lines between menswear and womenswear, the Armani Privé range presented small jackets teamed up with voluminous skirts and pants, shimmering mesh shawls with transparent blouses and plissé skirts as well as an array of strapless ball gowns layered with crystal-embellished crinolines, laces, silks, jacquard and organza.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

MFShow Men opens with Emidio Tucci line in Madrid (Spain)

Following the suit of absolute men-centric fashion weeks in London, Milan and Paris, the city of Madrid also welcomed this year’s menswear trends with its exclusive menswear-only showcase MFShow Men.    The four-day-long calendar was opened with an autumn-winter collection by Emidio Tucci, a high-end label owned by the Madrid-based department store group El Corte Inglés.   Replete with modern sophisticated looks, the classically tailored line was pre-dominantly based on a palette of blue, beige and brown colours.   The collection featured everydaywear suits, padded parkas, double-breasted jackets, straight lined cotton knit suits and a silk and velvet tuxedo for special occasions.   The line also showcased an array of men’s accessories such as vibrantly hued leather neckties, silk bow-ties, and warm scarves and gloves.   Jointly organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports, the Madrid City Council and the Business Association of Textile Trade & Accessories (Acotex), the event is Scheduled to run through January 21, 2014.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

H&M to partake at Paris Fashion Week (France)

On February 26th, H&M will return to the Paris catwalk with H&M Studio, the new name for its key, seasonal fashion collections. H&M Studio has its own dedicated design team at H&M, who creates a limited-edition collection including the latest trends and statement pieces of the season. During Paris Fashion Week, the Fall 2014 H&M Studio collection will be revealed during a fashion show and livestream of the show at hm.com. “It’s so exciting to show H&M Studio in Paris and to present the season’s key trends and pieces in one collection. H&M Studio is about our love of fashion, at the heart of everything we do.” Ann-Sofie Johansson, H&M’s creative head of design.

H&M

Athens hosts its first-ever eco-fashion show (Greece)

Athens, the capital city of Greece, has just hosted its first-ever sustainable fashion show ‘Do it Eco’, a novel initiative aimed to sensitise and educate people about the benefits of eco-friendly practices.   The event showcased more than 26 looks from names like 5226, Celia Kritharioti, Chara Lebessi, Dimitri Zafiriou, Dreamwish, Eleni Baltagianni, Erifilli, Faliakos by Petridis, Frida Karadima, Generation Generous and Georgina Skalidi.   Also, Charalambos Nikolaou, H-era by Hera Limniotaki, Kika Ioannidou, Konstantinos Melis by Laskos, Lena Katsanidou, Lol the brand, Loukia, Maraveya, Mumu Organic, Nikos Apostolopoulos, Panos Apergis, Parthenis, Pericles Kondylatos, Smaragdi, Sotiris Georgiou as well as Totsi by Tota Patsalidou and Vassilis Zoulias featured their creations at the event.   The pieces, which were showcased at the event, were made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, silk and rattan, certified by EcoluxeLondon, a not-for-profit platform that supports luxury with ethos.   One of the most standout ensembles at the event was a real seaweed dress created by Greek designer Joy Lempesi. The outfit, which took nearly 80 hours of painstaking work, was primarily based on a silk and tulle lining, decoratively topped with original seaweed appliqué designs.   Earlier, similar eco-friendly promotional events were organized in cities like Vancouver, New York, London, Berlin and Moscow.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India