Vans x Star Wars Footwear Collection

Vans x Collection of Star Wars footwear launches May 4, 2014.

Since its release in 1977, Star Wars has become a force to be reckoned with in both film and pop culture.  Its influence on art, design and movie-making is global.  Iconic footwear and apparel brand, Vans has collaborated with Lucasfilm to create a collection of footwear that pays tribute to the classic film series.  The limited edition collection features images of the iconic characters and graphics influenced by the films.  Only 300 pairs are available.

Calvin Garcia and Taka Hayashi are both designers at Vans who were equally eager to bring this concept to life.  "Being a huge fan of Star Wars and Vans growing up, I was really excited to be a part of this special collaboration," said Hayashi.  "I was thrilled to find out that we were going to collaborate with Star Wars! Working closely with one of my heroes, legendary Vans skateboarder, Steve Caballero, we created a unique customer twist on the iconic Half-Cab label which depicts two of my favorite Star Wars characters, Yoda and Darth Vader, skateboarding in outer space," Garcia added.

The timing of this collection is perfect considering the announcement that original cast members, Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher will be appearing in Star Wars: Episode VII, reviving their iconic characters.  A limited selection of items will be available in stores as of May 4 and the full assortment will be available in June around the world.

Calvin Garcia and Taka Hayashi, designers at Vans worked on the Star Wars collaboration. 

The designs were simple and kept the tradition of Vans styling while infusing the small details to bring the Star Wars concept to life.  The knowledge and love the designers have of the characters benefited the final concepts.  "The Empire Strikes Back was definitely one of my favorites out of all the Episodes.  I wanted to incorporate some of the memorable characters and scenes from the movie.  My idea was to inject Star Wars characters into some of the iconic Vans prints by reworking them into a seamless look between the two worlds. From a distance it looks like the original Vans print but the closer you get, the more you start seeing Star Wars emerge." Hayashi said.

It will be interesting to see how fans of both the films and the brand respond to the items once they are available in store.  Garcia said, "I can't wait to see Star Wars fans and skateboard enthusiasts alike battling it out in these shoes, wearing Chewbacca masks and wildly swinging light-sabers around."

CLICK HERE to shop the collection.

Half Cab LX Darth Vader (Black) $140, Yoda (Turtledove) $140.

Darth Vader skateboarding detail. 

KISS Featured in John Varvatos Campaign

JOHN VARVATOS KISS FALL 2014 COLLECTION. (Photo: PR Newswire)

  KISS completely took the music world by storm during the 1970s when they performed in outrageous costumes, huge boots and wore extreme makeup.  It wasn't something the public was used to seeing for a group of male musicians.  They were the exact opposite of squeaky clean looking groups like The Beatles.   Recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, KISS is legendary in music and have been big influencers in fashion.  It's only fitting that designer John Varvatos launches his Spring 2014 ad campaign featuring the legendary group.

  The band wears their iconic makeup and big hair with the flawless style of John Varvatos' tailored suits.  The spring collection was inspired by their album, "Dressed to Kill" and is the perfect combination of classic with a little edge.  "I wanted to sprinkle a little magic dust throughout the clothes in this collection, highlighting the idea of sartorial daring and masculine confidence that is integral to my vision, bringing it to a new level." Varvatos said.  "While working with KISS on my new advertising campaign, I was taken by how much everybody regardless of their age, loves them.  For me, it is the idea of a superhero, a man in disguise with incredible powers, that dash of fantasy to my work while keeping tailored finesse and elegence high on the agenda.  The result is energetic and strong, for a confident man who dares."

When you see the images in the campaign it is clear how powerful it is to see these iconic men wearing the designs of one of fashion's most talented men's designers.

Gene.

Paul Stanley.

STYLE | Golden Globe Style

Lupita Nyong'o in Ralph Lauren.

The Golden Globe Awards were held last night with no shortage of stunners on the red carpet.  By far one of the favorites of the night was 12 Years A Slave actress and Nominee Lupita Nyong'o.  She wore a red bare-shoulder, caped gown by Ralph Lauren that was simply ravishing.  It was a standout that had everyone talking.

It was also a night when the women who were expecting pulled out all the punches when it comes to looking fabulous during pregnancy. Olivia Wilde's emerald, sequined Gucci gown was enough to rival anyone's dress on the red carpet.  She confidently showed off her belly with a dress that didn't hide anything.  The slinky gown skimmed over her belly and still had a hint of sex appeal.

Olivia Wilde in Gucci. (Photo AP)

Drew Barrymore was also showing off her growing baby bump in a dress by Jenny Peckham.  The style was less body hugging and rather draped comfortably over her belly.  She looked fun and whimsical representing the true spirit of her off-beat personality.  

Scandal star Kerry Washington, who publicly announced her pregnancy before Scandal wrapped for winter break, looked radiant and was filled with joy as she spoke to the press on the red carpet.  When chatting with E! News she proudly said, "I feel like I have the best date of the night, my little accessory here."

Kerry Washington in Balenciaga. (Photo: Getty Images)

Meanwhile Emma Watson took a risk wearing an open back dress by Dior that revealed a pair of skinny pants underneath.  Some loved it while others hated it.  It was certainly a conversation piece.

Emma Watson in Dior.

Left to Right:   Berenice Bejo in Giambattista Valli,, Aubrey Plaza in Oscar de la Renta,  Lena Dunham in Zac Posen, Paula Patton in Stephane Rolland Couture and  Edie Falco in Lanvin. (Photo: Getty Images)

Some of the looks at the awards last night were less than spectacular according to some sources.  Many thought Paula Patton's big ruffled dress was just too much and actually distracting more than anything.  Edie Falco who usually looks great in a bold colour like red actually was swallowed up in her Lanvin dress which didn't seem to hug her in the right places.  There were several other misses, but sometimes bad press is still good press for these ladies of the red carpet.  

STYLE | Decorate Your Body This Holiday

Franci Jewelry.  (francijewelry.com)

The holiday season is upon us and many are scrambling to find that perfect outfit or the jewelry to complement.  This is a time when we can take advantage of the opportunity to be more dramatic and make a statement.  What better way to do that then by choosing body jewelry.  The work of designer Nicole Morris, of Franci Jewelry is sure to get you noticed  no matter where you are.

Each item is made by hand and combines stones, pearls and other metals to create unique pieces with a blend of vintage flair and an air of sophistication.  Accentuating the natural beauty of a woman's face, neck and body.  Franci Jewelry is a work of art that will never go unnoticed.  The headpieces adorn a woman as if she is an ancient princess to be admired by an entire kingdom.  The body jewelry is truly a work of art draping each curve creating the image of a masterpiece.

The collection includes items for the body, head, ankles, wrists and skirts too.  Keep what you're wearing simple when selecting one of these pieces of jewelry.  What you wear should be understated so that the jewelry can speak for itself.

www.francijewelry.com

Model Grace Modi on the runway at Buffalo Fashion Week.

STYLE | H&M Spring Preview

Escape the dullness of winter by embracing the looks for next spring by H&M.  It may be cold and dreary outside but taking a peek at what is to come when the temperatures climb back up again is kind of fun.  Check out this spring lookbook video from H&M featuring some the items we can expect to see in stores as early as late January.

STYLE | Gift Bags

Michael Kors Selma Tote in black and sapphire blue.

Holiday gift shopping is one of the most daunting experiences you will have.  Whether you are buying for your mom, best friend or girlfriend, a purse is something that a woman will use almost every single day.  It's a gift that will keep on giving.  If you want to put a smile on her face Christmas morning, get her what nearly every woman wants; a designer handbag. 

If she is a style maven then she's the kind of woman who would embrace something different.  She will appreciate rich color, different shapes, details and mixed textures.  For the traditional woman stick to simple styles like a tote, satchel or clutch.  Avoid all the extra details like studs, jewels and extra hardware since she is more of the simple type.  

Take advantage of all the great deals at this time of year.  Many big brands have outlet stores where you can find some of their best-sellers and favorites for a discounted price.
    

Tory Burch triangle tote bag.

Coach Madison Phoebe shoulder bag.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Tate satchel.

STYLE | Rud by Rudsak Winter 2013 Coats

Rud by Rudsak winter 2013.
Photo by Daniel Robillard.

Staying warm can still be stylish when you throw on one of these coats from Rud by Rudsak.  The Canadian brand is known for creative and modern coats that not only make a statement but also keep the cold away.  Founded in Montreal, the creative head is Evik Asotoorian and he makes sure to keep the brand's design aesthetic edgy yet contemporary.  Puffy coats are streamlined so you don't look like a big marshmallow.  Styles are perfectly shaped for a woman's body.  These are coats that are certainly good enough for both work and play.

Scroll down to check out the runway show for the winter 2013 collection of coats.

http://www.rudsak.com

Rud by Rudsak winter 2013.
Photo by Daniel Robillard.

Rud by Rudsak winter 2013.

STYLE | Stay Stylish and Warm

Dorothy Perkins fall.winter 2013

It's now late November and the weather is certainly continuing it's downward climb in the temperatures.  One of the unfortunate parts of winter is many people never get to see what you're wearing under your coat.  That's why for a woman of style, she knows how important it is to make her coat the statement.  The unfortunate part of being stylish is sometimes you end up sacrificing warmth to look good.  Many beautifully crafted styles look amazing but fail to ward off those cold temperatures.

Stylish military inspired coat.  Often great in style
but not as warm in sub-zero temps.

One of the best things to do is find a coat made of wool for the added warmth.  Down-filled coats are also a great choice for keeping warm over the winter months.  The only drawback of down-filled coats is the bulkiness they can sometimes have.  There is nothing worse than looking like the Michelin man for the sake of keeping warm.

Preta Lobue Long Storm Coat

Preta Lobue has a line of outerwear that is surprisingly warm and still maintains a sense of style.  Jackets have interesting collars and are often nipped at the waist defining your shape so you don't look like a big marshmallow.  The cool thing about her collection is she also has various coats available in temperature specific zones.  You know how it can be sometimes extreme cold and other days only slightly brisk.  The designer has styles in three zones for cold, colder and coldest days of winter.  They do cost more (up to $600), but you'll find their structured styles keep a sense of femininity while maintaining the warmth of a thick puffy alternative.  You can find those styles in stores like Nieman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue (also available online).

Preta Lobue Ruffle Collar Coat

NEWS | Gucci Loses its rights to Logo in the UK

Who would have thought that non-use would be deemed a reason for revoking a brand's identity.  When it comes to fashion and brands, a logo is just as important in identifying the company as the clothing is.  Gucci's interlocking G was first registered for use in the UK for clothing, handbags, cosmetics and watches in 1984.  British law states that if a logo is unused within five years the trademark can be revoked.  That is exactly what has just happened to Gucci.  The UK Intellectual Property Office has deemed they can only use the logo for fragrances and soaps.  The company has attempted to prove they have used the logo through providing sales figures however, the IPO feels the evidence provided is not strong enough and to prove use of the logo in the UK.

STYLE | Leather Jogging Pants

Everyone from Rihanna to Beyonce, Alicia Keys and Kim Kardashian have been seen wearing this latest fashion trend.  Leather jogging pants.  They are certainly more about style than they are about function.  With a take on the slouchy pant trend they come in various shapes, colors and styles.  But they all have a cool athletic yet sexy appeal to them.  Worn with sneakers, pumps or military inspired boots this is the latest fashion trend this season.

Vince leather jogging pants. (polyvore.com)

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Leather jogging pant from Pierre Balmain.

VOGUE ITALIA - BLACK | MODELS MOMENTS | KIARA KABUKURU

Kiara Kabukuru is one of my favorite models over the years.  I haven't seen much of her recently but she continues to be an important part of the industry.  Ugandan born model didn't think she could be a model because she isn't as tall as most runway models.  Listen as she talks about what she loves about New Yorkers and how they express themselves through fashion.  She also shares her personal style and how her career as a model began and grew unexpectedly.

VOGUE ITALIA - BLACK | MODELS MOMENTS | IMAN

Legendary Supermodel Iman is now an Icon in the fashion industry.  Listen in as she speaks about her early days as a model and the incident that inspired her to start her successful cosmetics line.

What Banned Ingredient is Allowed in Your Mascara

Applying mascara is a daily routine for many women around the world. 

  Most women love what mascara does for their lashes.  Even if you're someone who wears little to no makeup, one thing is usually certain; mascara to enhance your eyes.  It has a way of bringing attention to the eyes creating thicker, fuller, longer more dramatic lashes.

  Every day when people apply makeup not many consider the ingredients that go into the composition of everyday cosmetics.  For decades everything from eye shadow to blush has had traces of mercury in it.  The dangers of mercury have been major topics of conversation over the years.  It has been found that high levels of mercury can cause neurological and kidney problems.  For the protection of human health and the environment, the United nations Environmental Programme's treaty at The Minamata Convention for Mercury saw over 140 countries sign to reduce and/or ban uses of mercury in several products.  Under the treaty some light bulbs, batteries, medical devices and thermometers will be banned.  Soaps and cosmetics also fall under the ban however mascara and a few other forms of eye makeup have been excepted.  Why?

  Separating, lengthening, volumizing, curving, plumping.  Name it and most mascara manufacturers make a claim they can do it.  With dozens of mascara brush options they promise consumers they can make their lash dreams a reality.

  First of all you may be wondering why mercury is even in your mascara and other cosmetics.  Well, it is used as a preservative and to kill germs.  Joanna Tempowski, who is a scientist with the World Health Organization's International Program on Chemical safety told the Environmental Health News,  "The purpose of the products is to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that could spoil the products and that could infect and damage they eye, so the risk-benefit analysis favours the use of these preservatives."  It has long been used to preserve the products for extended periods of time and in the United States the FDA allows it at a level of 65 parts per million.  This is considered to be small traces and it is being said that the traces are too low to cause any significant harm.  

  There are alternatives that could be used in cosmetics including formaldehyde and parabens.  Although they also have their own side effects they aren't considered to be as toxic as mercury.  The ban on mercury doesn't take effect until 2020 and it is being predicted that by then many companies will have already phased it out of their products.  But that is not necessarily the case for mascara which, is exempt from the ban.

  Will consumers be concerned enough about the fact their mascara still contains small traces of mercury?  Or will they be willing to take the risk for their beautiful lashes?  If the change happens it will be on the account of the people speaking out and boycotting products before corporations take it seriously.  Because it is exempt, it is a strong possibility they will continue to use the mercury as an ingredient in mascara.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT MERCURY IN COSMETICS.

STYLE | Ghana Fashion & Design Week Highlights

Ghana Fashion & Design Week has wrapped for another year.  The second annual event once again brought together some of Ghana's best and emerging talent in the design industry.  Fashion designers, writers, bloggers and patrons traveled from the UK, Europe and other parts of Africa to experience the event.  FashionistaGH is one of Ghana's most popular Fashion Blog websites and was there covering the shows.  Take a look at the collection of videos highlighting all the events over the last few days.

Special thanks to FashionistaGH.

STYLE | CULTURE | Ghana Fashion & Design Week

Models posing with the logo of Moet & Chandon, one of the prime sponsors of Ghana Fashion & Design Week.

The second annual Ghana Fashion & Design Week kicks off today.  After a successful launch last year, it is now one of Ghana's most anticipated fashion events of the year.  Showcasing a host of designers from Africa as well as the African diaspora, the shows promise to present the best in style, creativity and represent what's in store for Africa's future in fashion.  Familiar designers from last year returning include 1981, Sarah Duah and Jil Boutique.  Some new labels join the lineup including House of Marie, Tuedor and Wright, Vonne Couture and Tap Designs.

Model wearing Sarah Duah from her 2012 collection at Ghana Fashion & Design Week 2012.

Sarah Duah from Germany who showed her first collection last year, continues to push the boundaries of creativity with her new collection.  Last year everyone remembered her collection completely inspired by hair.  It had attendees talking for weeks after the event.  Hers was one of the most unique and memorable.  She was recently touted as one to watch in Vogue UK and is known in the fashion circles as being quite avante-garde.  Her collection this season is inspired by the idea that everyone carries their own personal package.  It should be an interesting display.

CLICK HERE TO SEE SARAH DUAH TALK ABOUT HER COLLECTION LAST YEAR.

Jil Boutique

If there is any designer who pays homage to her Ghanaian roots it has to be Adoley Addo of Jil Boutique.  She always uses African prints particularly the woven kente cloth in her work.  Her ability to fuse it into a modern and contemporary design is what makes her work stand out.  The use of kente in bold bright colours is a strong element throughout.

House of Marie. (Photo: Ghanafashiondesignweek.com)

House of Marie's use of colour and texture while still infusing the culture of Africa are what make this International label interesting.  Joan Ibuzo is the head designer and she brings together a mix of culture with a modern appeal by using lace, tie-dye, chiffon and even leather into her collection.

GFDW promises to stay true to its vision to provide a platform for Ethical Fashion under the name Ethika.  Della La, Tash'Ornee, Fashion Rising Collection and Tuedor and Wright are all part of this initiative to promote sustainable and ethical fashion practices in Africa. 

One exciting addition this year is an opportunity for new fashion graduates to have this international platform of exposure to present their collections.  The Emerging talent presentation will feature the work of up and coming designers who are part of the first group of graduates from Radford University's Fashion Design program.  This is a representation and clear indicator of Ghana's future in the fashion business.  As the school grows and fosters new talent it will only serve to drive more development in Ghana's fashion industry as well as further solidify Africa's stronghold in fashion.

CLICK HERE TO SEE HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST YEAR'S EVENT

For more information and ticket information visit www.ghanafashionweek.com

STYLE | PARIS FASHION WEEK WRAP UP

STYLE | VERSACE SPRING 2014

STYLE | MILAN FASHION WEEK 4 HOT TRENDS

STYLE | CULTURE | NORTH AFRICA CLASHING WITH JAPAN?

Designers always talk about the references and influences in their collections. But this was quite interesting to me because it was being described as a clash between North Africa and Japan. Quite a contrast of culture and style aesthetics if you really consider that combination. It was quite grim, in my opinion, that a car crash was the centre of attention for the runway show, but every artist has their own creativity in how they want to present their work. The pieces actually were quite interesting in the way the two cultures were mixed together in the design, draping and details of each piece. Take a look at the video and see what you think about the spring 2014 collection for Givenchy.

STYLE | GOLD CAMOUFLAGE

Jean-Charles de Castelbajac spring 2014. (Photo: style.com)

 Paris Fashion Week always bring out some of the most interesting collections of the many fashion weeks each season.  The last few seasons camouflage, traditionally reserved for army uniforms has infiltrated our closets.  The pattern has been worked into so many shades and styles for men and women.  It's no surprise that designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac glamourized the traditional combat pattern.   Castelbajac made it hip, modern and definitely not to be worn in the line of duty.  The designer changed the classic green pattern bringing in the metallic power of gold mixed with beige and black.  The models with hair swept to the side and strong red lips looked perfectly dressed for an evening affair despite the fact they were wearing camouflage.

Jean-Charles de Castelbajac spring 2014. (Photo: style.com)

Jean-Charles de Castelbajac spring 2014. (Photo: style.com)