To Capture a Moment...
Categories: Looking for... 07/03/08 8:42 PM
)
With all this talk about men's and women's fashions for weddings (thanks Cindy!) and getting your own mug taken for boutique publicity (yay Olivia!) I thought maybe it was time to share a few of my photographer favorite, both in the city and in other fabulous spots around the country. When talking weddings or any type of self (or store) imaging, you don't want to mess around. You want the shots to be done right and to show you for the beauties that you are. Here are a few that will do just that!
Eric Laurits - :e: photography / Eric is not only one of my all time favorite men, he also happens to be an amazing photographer. Someday, when I get married (however far off that may be!) you can be certain that he's the one I'll be calling. His approach to the profession is one of pure joy and love. He wants nothing more than to bring out your inner (and outer) beauty to show the world how amazing you are. His wedding stories have, on occasion, brought tears to my eyes. It's remarkable, really. He did my press shots for Clarabella a few months after I opened up shop. I loved what he did and still use the shots for opportunities that come my way. If nothing else, check out his blog... it's inspiring. Eric is based in MA, but does travel quite a bit.
Tara Leigh Photography / I first learned about Tara through Eric. She accompanied him on a few shoots and anyone worthy of Eric's praise is certainly worth mine! I haven't met her, but from what I can tell, she's got a great eye. She based right here in NY.
Corey Hayes Photography / I met Corey right here in the shop. We've been talking about showing his work here and hope to set something up for next year. A peek at his site will show you his incredible skill - he brings out the humor and the humanity in celebrities, musicians, and regular people like you and me;). He's a sweet guy and I have no doubt that working with him would be an absolute treat. My friend Alison worked with him not too long ago - you can check her photos out (#17) on his site in the 'celeb' section.
Raya Photography / I heard about Raya through her awesome blog, The Paper Pony, and I first heard about that from one of my favorite websites, Design Sponge. A wealth of information, really!! Raya has a down-to-earth approach and her images and fresh and clean. She's based out in CA, so for you West Coast readers, she's your gal!
Jennifer Causey Photography / Last but not least... the genius behind Simply Photo. Jennifer's site is simply addictive and her photos are ones that I would love to snatch up and put all ove rmy apartment. She's also a wedding photogragher, based here in NY. I'd love to see what she could do with a fabulous boutique!
[image courtesy of Eric Laurits from his website]
SATC: Holiday Weekend!!!!
Categories: Women's Wear / Ahead of the Curve 07/03/08 3:31 PM
)
As you elbow your way out of the office with 'long weekend' on the brain and the excitement of holiday plans, let us not forget what The Fourth is all about and do channel your patriotic fashion sensibilities. This is a perfect year to be trendy and patriotic, at the same time, as the spring runways offered much with which to dibble and dabble. Star studded chains and dresses were a strong trend and nautical looks also kept creeping up on runways -- a look that tends to carry an American feel with whites, reds and blues as primary colors. So, if you'll be spending your weekend sailing on the Hudson, perfect! Or, not so perfect...
Unfortunately, rain is definitely in the forecast for the weekend. Bummer. But it gives me the opportunity to tell you about the Parashell umbrella. Anything imported from Japan has got to be hot, right? Well, here we go again. Tokyo-based company Di Cesare Designs Inc. has designed the chicest umbrella that takes many shapes including the form of seashells! (Pictured) How aesthetically and functionally cool! I would love to be one of the first to walk down NYC streets in the red Parashell! Fortunately, it's not one of the Gucci 8-8-2008 collections exclusively sold where 'you, Americans, can't get it'. This one is also available online.
Believe me, I'm on it ...
)
One my first blog I talked about my favorite tie, the Cristina tie. I knew from the moment I designed it on paper that it was going to be a big hit. I had the exact same feeling for this necktie, the Marie Grace tie. However, the result has been the complete opposite. This tie has not sold well for me and I have a hard time understanding why.
I pride myself in creating ties that are unique but not over the top. I thought the Marie Grace tie had all those qualities. Am I wrong? Feedback would be appreciated.
Marie Grace Tie: http://www.vittorioj.com/product_info.php?cPath=23_35_33&products_id=97
Jesse Chao | Vittorio J Lead Designer | www.VittorioJ.com | Jesse.Chao@vittorioj.com
SATC: Ditch the Boring
Categories: Women's Wear / Ahead of the Curve 07/02/08 7:17 PM
)
Jazz shoes and oxfords are replacing flats in the same manner gladiators offered a much needed solution for women to the flip-flop abomination. Not to the same degree though; flats are completely acceptable. I'm quite relieved at the loafer options as there are so many flat styles out there, it's getting out of hand. Sort of like, 'if you've seen one flat you've seen them all' -- that kind of thing. Then, Tory Burch flats made an entrance taking flats to the next level of boring. Are you as sick of seeing the black flats as I am? ...with the Chanel-like rings in the front or Tory Burch's? No individualism. No statement.
So, you think jazz shoes and oxfords are a bit tricky to wear? It does require some thought when you toss them on with your ensemble. (Hence, the problem with flats--not so much thought.) I prefer the oxfords (white, pictured) to jazz shoes (red, pictured). Oxfords fully enclose the foot whereas jazz shoes can be slipped on because of the wider foot opening. Both work well with all sorts of slacks and skinny jeans. Check out Siri in skinny jeans, leather jacket, and Prada oxfords. Simply clever. Oxfords are ideal for switching from pumps to flats when leaving the office--formal or casual attire--and doesn't completely deflate your look. I absolutely ADORE when oxfords are paired with pencil skirts. It's chic gone smart. Miu Miu designs a killer oxford at a killer price. These by Franco Sarto are delicious and you don't have to break the bank for them.
The jazz styles can be donned casually with cuffed shorts (Uniqlo has some great pieces), a billowy top, and a fedora. Cropped pants also work with either of these dance shoes. Dresses? I'm sure. I would opt for jazz shoes for dresses, particularly if it is a girly dress with layers and movement. Or, I would match jazz shoes with this shirt dress. Oxfords are best suited for structured dresses and clothing because of the balance it lends an already severe look. They also go well with short skirts with straight lines.
So. If you already need some shoe closet therapy for your comfortable selections, don't sell lace-ups short. They can still be chic and funky. Just be sure to purchase your footies--light, low-cut socks ... yeah, you know.
Gawker Helps and Couture is Lovely
Categories: Women's Wear / Boutiques 07/02/08 5:36 PM
)
Had to share with you all this piece on gawker that I came across aptly titled How to Write a Press Release that Doesn't Suck.
Very sound advice contained here. Definitely worth a read.
Is anyone following the couture shows? I was really into a couple of the looks I saw at Chanel (to think her very first couture shows were lauded!) and oh how I want to be one of Christian Lacroix's wild animals that somehow projected a kind of innocent "who me?" attitude despite raccoon eyes and adornment on every inch of every part of the body (and then some). It's that totally bizarre interplay that makes him so intriguing to me. Aggressive work that is absolutely charming and fragile. I don't get it. But I love it.And Roland Mouret presented something inherently "Jennifer Connelly"esque- classics with divine tailoring that would appeal to a confident woman that reallywears her clothes.What's catching your eye?
Polish 'Em Off!
Categories: Women's Wear / Ahead of the Curve 07/02/08 12:53 AM
)
My morning commute can dictate my day's mood. There's nothing I love to hate more than being smooshed into a small subway car that is congested with tons of grumpy people. (Oh, and by the way, the reason I don't move further inside the train is because I CANNOT REACH THE UPPER RAIL! So please understand that I need to stand by one of the poles not out of selfishness, but to prevent myself from falling on top of you.)
Anyway, when we are invading others' territory during our morning ride, I've noticed that most people either read or fixate on something while zoning out with Ipods. This is when I become paranoid.
I mean, utter strangers are in my face and leaning on me, right?!
So, I naturally start thinking to myself: "Did I moisturize enough today?" or "Is my dress all wrinkly?" And then comes the thought I dread most... "Crap! I forgot to get a manicure!" Here I am holding onto a pole that has at least twenty people huddled around it--and they are staring at my ungroomed, broken, chipped, uneven nails. (Or at least I think they are...)
As ridiculous as it sounds, I think nail polish can complete an outfit or even make a statement on its own. How quickly one can transform tired nails into shiny, lacquered gems! Nail polish may fall under the beauty category, but I think it's worthy of accessory status.
Whether you are a DIYer or a salon diva, some quick "tips" (haha, get it? nail tips?):
- Longevity - Apply a protective top coat daily to reduce chipping and peeling of nail color. Wrap the nails by running the brush around the tip of the nails to seal the edges.
- Length - Keep nails short to prevent breaking and chipping.
- Protect - Wear rubber gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to prevent excessive exposure to water and/or harsh cleaning agents.
- Groom - Apply oil to cuticles and then push them back. Otherwise polish will peel off of overgrown cuticles.
- Radar - Out the window with dark plum, eggplant, and black polish. In with bright 80s neon, funky neutrals, and patterns (if you're daring). Make sure the color complements your skin tone!
Some local places to go on your "break": 1) Jin Soon 2) Priti (as highlighted by Erin) 3) Rehoboth 4) Sweet Lily 5) Red & White Spa 6) Haven 7) Acqua Beauty Bar 8) Element Beauty Lounge 9) Rescue Beauty Lounge 10) Space Salon.
If you'd rather do it on your own, then some hot summer shades for you to add to your "files": 1) Sephora by OPI Metro Chic ($9, avail. in August) 2) Chanel Roberston Boulevard Limited Edition Collection ($25) pictured 3) Revlon Nail Enamel Fuchsia Fever ($5) 4) Orly Basket Case ($7) 5) OPI Curry Up Don't Be Late ($9) 6) Essie Mini Shorts ($9) 7) Lippmann Collection Don't Call Me Baby ($15) 8) China Glaze E Collection Shower Together ($5) 9) NYX Lime ($3) 10) M.A.C. Nail Lacquer Metalist ($10) 11) Morbid Makeup Neon Purple ($3).
Great nails will make even the most cantankerous commuter want to raise his spirit fingers!
)
Today I want to talk about my two favorite custom tailors in New York City. Ok, I must admit, this will be biased feedback since both Michael Andrews Bespoke (www.michaelandrewsbespoke.com) and Imparali Custom Tailors (www.imparalicustomtailors.com) carry Vittorio J neckties exclusively. However, I have visited and talked to quite a few of the NYC tailors and these two by far offer the best combination of products and service.
What makes these two places stand out the most is the passion the owners have for their business. Both Mike from MAB and Matt from Imparali love to dress men. They are both perfectionist and will not allow ANY customers to leave their studios without being happy. Imparali wants to be the "Brooks Brothers" of the custom business and mostly targets conservative men that aim for comfort over pure looks. MAB on the other hand is a designer tailor. Both offer thousands of fabrics for suits and shirts (ahem..and of course VJ ties to match). MAB offers more creativity and encourages their customers to choose items that are "outside the box". He offers really cool designer linings as well as different colored button holes and even stitching.
I personally have two MAB suits and I'm waiting to be fitted for my Imparali suit. I'm also going to purchase a Bespoke winter coat from MAB this coming season. I'm getting excited just thinking about it.
Jesse Chao | Vittorio J Lead Designer | www.VittorioJ.com | jesse.chao@vittorioj.com
Governor's Island
Categories: I Love New York 07/01/08 8:47 PM
)
Ruby posted not too long ago about the New York City Waterfalls. Rachel posted about bicycles taking over. Interestingly enough, the newly opened up to the public Governor's Island gives you a piece of both. I spent 2 whole days this weekend out on the less visited Island, conveniently located off the south eastern tip of Manhattan. A friend of mine was involved in the Figment Festival, a weekend display of interactive and gallery style artwork. Hers was called Analog Internet and involved a number of typewriters placed in the Admiral's House, available for visitors to leave messages and interact on an off-line though still written basis. The festival was very cool, but I was just glad that I was introduced to this new weekend destination. The island is small and easy to explore. It is host to one of the NYC Waterfalls, features landmark buildings, huge grassy areas on which picnicing seems to be encouraged and most importantly, bike rentals by Bike and Roll. My friend and I were able to rent snazzy little beach cruisers on Friday. The first hour was free, the second was $5 per person. A pretty darn good deal if you ask me. Especially when you get to play NY tourist for a day, cruising around the island, catching site of both the Manhattan and Jersey City skylines, the Statue of Liberty, the aforementioned Waterfall, the Staten Island Ferry and more. The ferry to get there is located in the old Staten Island ferry terminal and though it moves slower than molasses, it is free. So, head on out to the Island! Check here for info on events, live music, and everything else you need to know. Just one more reason why I love this city!!
Party Time
Categories: Boutiques / Sales / Events 07/01/08 5:33 PM
A wonderful way to get press to your boutique and be in their favor is to throw a party. I am sure this sounds like a very intimidating endeavor for you to take on if you don't already have friends or contacts within the press community but I'll tell you that getting people to come isn't quite as hard as it may seem. The secret to getting people to attend is to tie something news worthy into the party. So you could throw a party for an exhibit going up in your store (as Erin did I believe) or throw a party for your grand opening. Write a press release announcing the party's purpose. With the contacts you have via mastheads.org you can email invitations to editors. You will be surprised at how many people actually will attend these things and it is the best way for you to meet press and show them your boutique.
These parties are fun on many levels for people in the industry- you network, admire a beautiful boutique and shop with discounts. Generally, a 20% discount is offered on merchandise purchased the night of the party.
Invite market editors, fashion editors, shopping editors and web editors. Invite fashion writers from New York newspapers. You don't need to have a costly spread, but you should have some basic snacks and drinks. Wine is fine.
Summer is the perfect time to throw these parties because generally people are very happy frolicking out and about, and aren't begrudgingly attending the event as the snow is falling.
Do not hold your party on a weekend night- and I include Thursday in the definition of weekend night. Especially in the summer, people are away on weekends or simply out of work function mode. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are your best bet so stick with those!
As I mentioned before, have press releases on hand announcing the launch of your store, or announcing the art exhibit that has just gone up and how it ties into your stores theme. Also, have your business card available so they have your contact for when they start writing their piece.
When you are there, it is nice to have someone at the door with a guest/RSVP list- not because you are trying to control who shows up, but because you might not know what these people look like and they may not introduce themselves. So have your spy so to speak at the door and have them let you know when someone arrives.
On with your party. Dont forget to invite me!
Snakeskin Uggs
Categories: Ahead of the Curve / General 07/01/08 3:42 PM
)
I just received a mass email announcing the 2008 UGG TRUNK SHOW. No!!! It seems the madness continues and my earlier post was written in vain; I couldn't have dreamt up this newest infiltration of sheepskin footwear. Many defended "Uggs" on the grounds of their familiarity and comfort -- that they have their time and place behind closed doors around family and loved ones. Well lads and lassies, feast your eyes on these... just don't say I didn't warn you.
Previous / Next
