Couture Worthy Close Up: Ashi

I recently had a chance to see Saudi designer Mohammed Ashi's collection who designs under the label Ashi.

After graduating from acclaimed fashion schools, working for world-renowned brands and winning Future TV’s Project Fashion, Ashi embarked on his own fashion journey.

He creates one-of-a-kind deconstructed pieces that are intricate in details and carefully crafted. They have a couture level of detail and are surely fit for royalty or perhaps even pop royalty. I have a feeling that Lady Gaga would be perfectly at home in some of these pieces. The muted color palette lend a great sense of sophistication in the sheer and very textural layers of organza. Don't let the delicate appearance fool you though, these dresses are quite substantial and weigh quite a bit! I would love to wear one for an evening.

What do you think of this collection?

Now Wearing...

Feeling graphic I took my half and half color block dress and thought it would be fun to pair with my half and half color block tights for a very monochromatic look. Actually I'm wearing alot of the same accessories a my look the other day but think I still managed to have a pretty different feel.

Color Block Dress - Alexander Wang for Uniqlo
Half and Half Tights - Pamela Mann
Plaid Scarf - Newman
Lace Up Boots - Marc by Marc Jacobs
Textured Chain Necklace - DIY piece of chain tied with ribbon
Leather Jacket - Jodi Arnold
Leather Satchel - Botkier Vixen

Dressed to Kilt and Pop-Up Shop

The famed charity Dressed to Kilt event on April 5 at M2 Lounge will be hosted by Sir Sean and Lady Connery this year. Sponsored by Friends of Scotland, a non-profit organization, the event Proceeds will benefit the Paralyzed Veterans of America and its Scottish equivalent, the Erskine Hospital of Scotland, along with the Wounded Warrior Project. The event features a fashion show that showcases some of Scotland's finest young talent and top designers take on the Scottish Kilt. For more info click here.

Who: Dressed to Kilt/The Friends of Scotland Pop-Up Shop
What: Scotland’s finest textiles and designs with Manhattan. The best in Scottish fashion, including past runway designs from Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and Deryck Walker.
When: March 22-April 12, 2010
Where: 13 East 69th Street, (at Madison Avenue) 212-452-3177

HP x Project Runway Event

Last Friday I had the opportunity to attend a HP x Project Runway brunch where I got to see how HP's technology was being used on the show by the current contestants of Project Runway. Their most recent challenge was to create a print using HP TouchSmart PCs and bring them to life by first printing on fabric and then creating showstopping design. HP TouchSmart PCs integrate a high-definition widescreen display with a multitouch-enabled screen. Users can simply pinch, rotate, flip or drag a finger across the screen of the PC to create designs in a natural, intuitive way.

I met some of the contestants including Emilio, Jay and Seth Aaron and got to see their designs up close. Jay kindly explained how the challenge although not his favorite was definitely up there as it was amazing to see their original print designs come to life in the blink of an eye (or at least a 24 hr turnaround). HP had developed huge digital printers to print onto cotton sateen for a relatively soft fabric with super vibrant colors. Jay said the toughest part was actually picking the exact shade of green he wanted to use from thousands to create his perfect Ninja inspired corset girl look.

Emilio later showed me how to use the print creating program and set a repeat and it was as easy and fun as 1, 2, 3!

I tried my hand at creating my own print and only wish that I could have seen it come to life as I think it would have made for a fun dress. The touch screen took a little getting used to but it was fun to "draw" shapes with your fingers or even the end of a Sharpie to create something truly one-of-a-kind. Not too shabby, right?

I also got the chance to experiment a little with the HP TouchSmart tm2 notebook which features a screen that can be rotated around and converted to slate mode, morphing it into a sketchpad with digital pen. This notebook actually comes standard with this Corel Draw software so any aspiring artist can sketch their hearts out. To be honest, drawing on a computer vrs drawing on paper has a bit of a different feel but once you get used to it it can be quite fun. I think the freedom of knowing that no line is permanent as there is an undo button and the special effects really can add to a drawing.

Also, if you don't want to buy or have a million art supplies (perhaps due to a small NYC apartment) there are a wide variety of tools that you can play with from spray paint to sponge brush effects. I was thinking my next notebook might be a MAC, but this drawing program alone makes for a strong case to change my mind :) After all my current laptop (also an HP) has served me pretty well over the last 4 years.

Finally the highlight of my day was meeting designer Vivienne Tam. She is quite an extraordinary, intelligent woman. She makes me feel at ease by clasping my hand gently like a dear friend and asking if she has met me before.

She explains, "When I started my business I couldn't afford very expensive materials... so I created my own prints to make my designs special, and people recognize my designs and it has become my signature". She actually hopes that last week's episode of Project Runway, "inspires a lot of people to create their own prints, and create something for yourself...Make your own clothes, make something special and feel special. Because everyday of life if you are creative it will make your life fruitful and beautiful and enjoyable...Why play [video] games when you can play around with prints?"

Vivienne Tam not surprisingly is quite the tech savvy lady as she shows off her digital clutch and tells me how she works on prints digitally everyday! She starts telling me about the butterfly headphones that come with her clutch and I ask her if she is a big fan of music as I know that Beats by Dr.Dre was an integral part of her digital clutch. She enthusiastically shares, "Fashion plus technology plus music is Triple Happiness!". I can't help but agree!

Deal of the Day: Baggu Backpack

I love backpacks. They provide both utility and playfulness, which makes them great for everyday use and especially perfect for summer.

This canvas backpack is from Brooklyn label Baggu, best known for their reusable shopping bags. These backpacks are made from 100% recycled cotton, machine washable and affordable. They come in a variety of colors too!

You can find them in store at Greenpoint boutique Dalaga for $38 or buy directly from baggubag.com for $28 + $4 shipping.

Now Wearing...

Nudes and black! Over the weekend, I covered Cure Thrift Shop's spring preview for DesignerSocial and interviewed Bianca who does Cure's PR. It was our first time meeting, so no, we didn't plan our matching looks. Nude dresses, black jackets and lace up boots, so hot right now. The video I did will be on DesignerSocial TV soon, so stay tuned.

Black cardigan - Jeanne Pierre
Nude shirt dress - Sally Tseng
Faux snakeskin leggings - American Apparel
Black roper boots - Justin

Sales This Week NYC: March 29-April 4, 2010

Who: Sanyo Sample Sale
What: Men's outerwear 50-70% Off. Outerwear now $49-$299, was $295-$795
When: March 31-April 1, 2010. Wed 8:30am-6pm, Thurs 9am-5pm
Where: 525 7th Ave (b/n 38th & 39th St), Suite 1709

Who: BGN
What: 30-70% off on linens, dresses, chiffon tops and skirts, wool and leather jackets, and tailored pants
When: Now through Monday, April 5, 2010. Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Closed on Weekends
Where: 250 West 39th St (b.n 7th & 8th Ave) Suit 700. 212.278.8686

Who: Jennifer Tyler Cashmere Sample & Stock Sale
What: Up to 70% off on cashmere. New Spring Tunic collection in silks, cottons and linens start at $60 (retail $195 - $325). Spring/Summer cardis and fab sweaters in cotton & blends now 50% off. Cashmere cable v-necks and crew-necks now $125 (retail $350). Lots of colors and special orders for the same price.
When: March 25-29, 2010. Thurs-Sat 10am-7pm Sun 12-7pm Mon 10am-7pm
Where: The Helmsley Carlton Hotel,680 Madison Ave(b/n 61st & 62nd St) 212.838.3000

Who: The Prive Sample Sale
What: 50-80% off Walter, Lewis Cho, Julie Brown, Ben Sherman, Trunk Ltd, Josh Brody, and so many more that can't be advertised
When: April 1-4, 2010. Thurs-Sun 10:30am-7pm

Where: 75 9th Ave, Chelsea Market (b/n 15th & 16th St)

Who: 43.46 Aggaj Sample Sale
What: Up to 70% Off flirty feminine dresses. Buy 3 dresses, get 1 free!
When: March 31 - April 1, 2010. Wed-Thurs 8am-7pm
Where: 400 West 37th St (b/n 9th & 10th Ave) Suite 7N

Preview: Doo.Ri's Under.Ligne Fall 2010

Doo-Ri Chung's diffusion line Under.Ligne is looking pretty sizzling hot for Fall 2010. I got a chance to stop by her studio the other night and chat with the designer about her collection and get an intimate look and feel for the designs.

She started her diffusion line in Fall 2009 after some encouragement of some friends who thought that the world would benefit from the designer bringing her aesthetic to a wider audience. She started small with 8 pieces in jersey meant to be worn on their own or mixed and matched with pieces from her signature line. The response by the public and retailers was phenomenal and as a result the line as grown dramatically.

It's not hard to see why with the easy to wear separates that are not only super flattering but flawlessly sexy and cool as well. I've picked some of my faves from the lookbook and her studio to share with you.

This trench coat is one of my personal faves it combines a watercolor print on a brushed twill fabric that is soft to the touch and a really great piece for transitional dressing. This piece could easily work it's way into spring a well. Another great piece are these Ponte/Leather leggings in a fabric that actually has some substance, so you could wear them as pants without feeling overly exposed. The drapey shirt behind the pants I think is absolutely great in super soft jersey as it could be worn as a top or open as a cardigan. If I owned this, I think I would wear it to bits!

I think that Lani would have loved to see this shaggy vest! It is a very warm and textural piece that adds instant drama to some skinny jeans and a basic t. Even the basics have gotten a bit of flair added from lightly padded shoulders to the soft drape across the hem ensuring this top won't cling to the stomach!

I can't wait for this collection to hit stores! Pieces retail from about $175-475.

The designer is super petite and adorable in addition to being friendly, personable and undeniably real. She tells me that she started styling her hair in twin braids out of function and not necessarily style. She actually taught girl's how to braid their hair when she was in college but she didn't start wearing her hair this way until she started sketching as it was hard for her to concentrate with her hair falling in her face. As tight ponytails gave her a headache, she discovered braids did not hurt her head and she has been wearing her hair this way ever since. Perhaps I need a lesson in braiding because although it's functional I think it's also a great way to wear your hair!

Now Wearing...

Sweater - Matthew Williamson for H&M (for Men, why not borrow from the boys?)

Satin Pleated Pants - Walter, ordered off Gilt Groupe for $48, but recently they had them for $24 as part their clearance sale!
Textured Chain Necklace - DIY, tied a piece of chain with a ribbon
Plaid Scarf - Newman
Glasses - Prada
Lace Up Boots - Marc by Marc Jacobs
Leather Satchel - Botkier Vixen

Weekend Shopping Guide: March 26-28, 2010

Who: Jennifer Tyler Cashmere Sample & Stock Sale
What: Up to 70% off on cashmere. New Spring Tunic collection in silks, cottons and linens start at $60 (retail $195 - $325). Spring/Summer cardis and fab sweaters in cotton & blends now 50% off. Cashmere cable v-necks and crew-necks now $125 (retail $350). Lots of colors and special orders for the same price.
When: March 25-29, 2010. Thurs-Sat 10am-7pm Sun 12-7pm Mon 10am-7pm
Where: The Helmsley Carlton Hotel,680 Madison Ave(b/n 61st & 62nd St) 212.838.3000

Who: Totallysuperdeluxe Pop-Up Sale
What: An indie craft fair located inside a 19th-century carriage house. Jewelry, knits, stoneware, stationery, totes, and vintage fashion from Mad Mad Judy.
When: March 26-27, 2010. Fri-Sun noon-7pm
Where: 198 6th Ave (at Prince St) ground floor (917-892-2928)

Who: Brooklyn Designers Showcase Now
Who: Loads of homemade stuff will be priced at $50 or less,Irene’s Secret lotions, soaps and sugar scrubs ($3–$40); In Sharon’s Closet wrap skirts, dresses and T-shirts ($18–$45); and Barbara’s Bags beaded purses ($25–$30)
Where: St. Ann’s Church, 157 Montague St (b/n Clinton and Henry St), Brooklyn Heights (718-763-7654
When: March 27, 2010. Sat noon–6pm

Who: Brooklyn for Brooklyn Collective and General Nightmare Antiques
What: Spring event features clothes, accessories, jewelry, and art from more than fifteen local designers. Complimentary cocktails will be served, and SORD will perform.
Where: 196 Columbia St (nr Sackett St) Red Hook, Brooklyn.
When: March 26, 2010. Friday, 7pm–midnight.

Who: Shop W Style
What: Check out the Shop W Style Lounge at The Standard, New York to pick up a map of events, check out the new Kate Moss for Longchamp Collection, enjoy a make-up application by Shiseido and be among the first to shop the new Tacori 18k925 collection. Then hit the Meatpacking District, where more than 40 stores—including Diane von Furstenberg, Hugo Boss and Yigal Azrouël—will be hosting events and offering deals. Full Details Here
Where: The Shop W Style Lounge at the Standard Hotel, 69 Little W 12th St at Washington St
When: March 27, 2010. Sat 10am–6pm See for a full list of participants.

Who: Hermès spring sale
What: Up to 60% off on handbags, accessories, and ready-to-wear
When: March 24-28, 2010. Wed-Sun, Hours TBD, call for hours.
Where: Metropolitan Pavillion, 123 West 18th St (b/n 6th & 7th Ave) 212.463.0200

Who: Built by Wendy Sample Sale
What: Silk-twill drawstring tank-dresses $80 (wa $274), canvas wedge sandals $45 (was $154), and five-pocket straight-leg jeans $50 (was $145)
When: March 26-28, 2010. Fri-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun noon-6pm
Where: 46 North 6th St (near Wythe Ave) Williamsburg, Brooklyn 718.384.2882

Now Wearing...

Leather moto jacket - Walter
Mixed neutral print dress - H&M
Black roper boots - Justin
Metallic crossbody bag - Madewell
Sunglasses - Forever 21
Bar ring - Erica Anenberg
My friends and co-workers often comment on how they've never seen me wear the same thing. That's definitely not true. I have a few go-to outfits when I'm in a hurry and can't decide what to wear, and I wore this dress just last week. If anything, I try my best to wear each garment in a slightly different way to make the most of what I already have.

Flats & Walkable Heels at Scarpasa

Let's face it. We all love high heels, but they're not always the most practical, especially when you live and walk in the city. If you're Carrie Bradshaw and a fictional writer income, then sure you can afford to wear ridiculous shoes and cab everywhere. For the rest of us, there are shoe cushions and flats.


Image courtesy of Indexed
I know a lot of women, myself included, find it difficult to shop for stylish and comfortable shoes. Enter Scarpasa.com, a site dedicated stylish flats, low and mid-heel shoes, and supposedly kitten heels are coming back.


The shoes at Scarpasa tend to be more high-end like Milly and Zinda, so some of the pairs are a bit pricey. I'm not advocating spending beyond your means, but just remember that your feet and health are worthy investment. Plus, one quality pair is worth more than a dozen pairs from Payless.

The site is new and still growing, so expect new inventory in the future. For now, these are my picks Scarpasa picks, and good until the end of April, enter "Velina" at checkout for 10% off.

Zinda Lynne, $209


Wonders Haven, $155


Zinda Linda, $205

Now Wearing...

Over the weekend, my sister was in town and the weather was beautiful, so I took her to Highline Park to enjoy the sun and view of the west side.

I started out wearing a navy jersey blazer, but after less than five minutes in the sun, I was really hot! I'm bummed it's cold and gloomy again this week, but I'm just thankful the winter blizzards are over.

Cat eye sunglasses - no name
Black cowl neck - silence + noise, Urban Outfitters
Print shorts - Forever 21
Black roper boots - Justin
Charm necklace - Marc by Marc Jacobs
Rings - Forever 21 & Erica Anenberg

Last year, our good friend Errol gave us a couple charm necklaces - one to giveaway on the blog (hi, Karen!) and one to keep. I don't usually like to wear anything with big labels, but the color of this necklace is so fun and like nothing else in my closet.
Photography by James S. Rand

Sample Sales This Week NYC: March 22-28, 2010

Who: Clothingline Blowout
What: Up to 95% off retail on womenswear brands like Design History, Bibelot, Milly, Smitten, Michael Simon, Interlud and E.vil plus more! Merch starting at $10-15.
When: March 22, 2010. Mon 11am-7pm
Where: 261 W 36th Street (between 7th & 8th Ave) 2nd Floor

Who: Hermès spring sale
What: Up to 60% off on handbags, accessories, and ready-to-wear
When: March 24-28, 2010. Wed-Sun, Hours TBD, call for hours.
Where: Metropolitan Pavillion, 123 West 18th St (b/n 6th & 7th Ave) 212.463.0200

Who: Built by Wendy Sample Sale
What: Silk-twill drawstring tank-dresses $80 (wa $274), canvas wedge sandals $45 (was $154), and five-pocket straight-leg jeans $50 (was $145)
When: March 26-28, 2010. Fri-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun noon-6pm
Where: 46 North 6th St (near Wythe Ave) Williamsburg, Brooklyn 718.384.2882

Who: J. Rosen Showroom
What: Vix and Lisa Curran swimsuits (up to DD) from $65, cover-ups from $30, flip-flops from $10.
When: March 12-26, 2010. Mon-Fri 10am-8pm. Closed wkends.
Where: 231 West 39th St (b/n 7th & 8th Ave) Suite 1101

Who: Showroom Seven
What: Up to 90% off on Kova & T jeans, Andy & Debb blouses, Erickson Beamon jewels, and Tony Cohen dresses
When: March 15-26, 2010. Mon-Fri 10am-7pm
Where: 263 11th Ave (b/n 27th & 28th St) 3rd Floor

Who: BGN
What: 30-70% off on linens, dresses, chiffon tops and skirts, wool and leather jackets, and tailored pants
When: Now through Monday, April 5, 2010. Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Closed on Weekends
Where: 250 West 39th St (b.n 7th & 8th Ave) Suit 700. 212.278.8686

Who: Manas Spring Sale
What: Quality Italian made footwear, Flats, sandals, wedges, and strappy pumps at wholesale prices. New Spring/Summer 2010 Styles. Sizes 35-41. Italian sport couture jeans Skinny fit- sizes 24-27 sample sizes. Everything under $100 - All shoes, boots and jeans.
When: March 23-24, 2010. Tues-Wed 9:30am-6pm
Where: The Venetian Fashion Group. 37 West 57 Street (5th-6th Ave) 12th Floor

Who: Costume Jewelry Sample Sale
What: Jewelry from Nordstrom, Free People, Macy's, and more is up to 80% off. All jewelry is under $15.
Where: 10 West 33rd St (nr 5th Ave) Suite 802
Where: March 23-25, Tues–Thurs 10am-7pm

Now Wearing...

Graphic Floral Print Dress - Richard Chai for Target
Cameo Necklace - Dominique Cohen for Target
Double Fishnets - Rebecca Taylor
Patent Pumps - Delman
Lipstick - Maybelline Revival Red (Picked this up as a gift last Fashion Wk)