A Passion for Fashion: Achieving Your Fashion Dreams One Thread at a Time by Nick Verreos

Becoming a notable figure in the ever-changing and exclusive world of modern fashion has become more difficult than ever before. Each year, thousands of new designer labels are launched, and tens of thousands of fashion students and recent graduates vie for internships and jobs. Simply put, competition is stronger than ever before. For modern fashion professionals trying to find their place and differentiate themselves from the pack, standing out from their peers is paramount.

As a way to help aspiring fashion designers and other hopefuls launch their careers and navigate the industry effectively, former Project Runway contestant (turned guest judge), red carpet correspondent, and celebrity fashion designer Nick Verreos – along with partner and colleague David Paul – wrote the forthcoming book, A Passion for Fashion: Achieving Your Fashion Dreams One Thread at a Time (foreword written by pop icon and Project Runway host Tim Gunn, available August 23, 2016, Post Hill Press).

Written in straightforward language and broken down into 10 easy-to-read chapters, Verreos debunks common myths and ultimately reveal the harsh realities of the industry.

This book is a must-read for anyone considering a career as a fashion designer, merchandiser, publicist, blogger, or any other position in the fashion industry.

In this insightful and educational book, Verreos also reveals:

€ The best ways prospective students can prepare for fashion school
€ Fashion sketching essentials
€ Tips to create a portfolio that lands your dream job
€ How to know if fashion is the right career path for you
€ How to launch your new startup label successfully
€ Ways to deal with the press and get your designs on the red carpet
€ Project Runway: The Good, Bad, & Ugly
€ And so much more!

Verreos received worldwide attention after appearing on the television show Project Runway and later became the winning mentor on Under the Gunn. Since then, he has dressed celebrities including Beyoncé, Katy Perry, Heidi Klum, Carrie Underwood, and Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin under his label NIKOLAKI. He has also enjoyed impressive success with his NV Nick Verreos sportswear line on major TV shopping networks in the U.S. and Europe.

As a renowned red carpet fashion expert and correspondent, he has reported for E! Entertainment, TV Guide, Style Network, NBC, and CNN International. Verreos is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM), and is a guest lecturer and official spokesperson for the college.

Paul is an American fashion designer and co-founder of the high-end fashion line, NIKOLAKI. He built an extensive resume in the world of entertainment and fashion styling, working with André Leon Talley for Vogue magazine and photographers such as Arthur Elgort, and Amanda DeCadanet.

Additionally, he has styled celebrities such as Kate Hudson, Heidi Klum, Vanessa Paradis, and Twiggy. His television credits include costume design and wardrobe for MTV, ABC, FOX, and The WB. Paul is a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) where he received his B.A. in theater arts, and a master¹s degree in costume design.

Connect with Verreos and Paul on:

Website: NickVerreos.com

YouTube.com, Instagram.com, Pinterest.com, Facebook.com, Twitter.com

FILA and Jason Wu Reinvent the “Modern Classic” for FW 2016

 Since the launch of his career back in the early 2000s, fashion designer Jason Wu has created a fashion empire that is defined by his ability to combine unique innovations with classic elegance and eclectic energy. Wu’s new collection for FILA Hong Kong seamlessly combines elements of two great designers – drawing inspiration from the clean lines, classic fringe and bold colors found in the FILA archives, and reimagining them with new geometric patterns, stylish cuts, and a bold color pattern that, when combined, makes for a truly unique and sophisticated collection that brings the 1960s into the modern world.
The FILA x Jason Wu women’s collection is defined by its unique combination of asymmetrical cuts, fabrics, and patterns that blend vintage FILA styles with contemporary silhouettes. Included in the collection are four tennis dresses, two tops, a skort, and a pant, which each sport a different color blocked pattern as well as bold lines of varying thickness and color. The show-stopping piece comes in the form of an ultra-feminine interpretation of the classic FILA tennis dress, which combines a smooth, form-fitting top, with a flirty pleated skirt, and an overlapping body piece. The mixture of fabrics and irregular stitching makes for a remarkable silhouette that creates a sense of depth, while keeping a visually optimized ratio.
The men’s FILA x Jason Wu line features a selection of polos, crewnecks, pants, and shorts in various combinations of white, black and grey – a design element that allows users to mix and match different pieces with ease. Various color blocking patterns and added geometric details in red, yellow, and blue gives each item its own unique flair, while remaining sophisticated and versatile. A black jacket with white piping on the wrists and waist rounds out the collection in stylish sophistication, making it the perfect addition to an autumn wardrobe.
The FILA x Jason Wu collection will be available this fall at select retail locations in Hong Kong, as well as online at www.fila.com.hk/. More information and photos about the collaboration may be found on FILA Hong Kong’s official site, as well as their Facebook andInstagram pages.
About FILA:
Founded in 1911, FILA is an Italian sportswear and lifestyle brand with a rich and diverse history. Throughout its 105 years as a brand, FILA has had the opportunity to design athletic wear for some of the finest athletes in tennis, golf, skiing, basketball, and baseball. The brand is especially well known for its ability to produce clothing that combines comfort and aesthetics in one, using high quality materials and expert tailoring. Today, FILA products can be found in over 30 countries including Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, Japan, Korea, Brazil, and the United States.
About Jason Wu:
Jason Wu (吴季刚) was born in 1983 in Taiwan. As a student, Wu had the opportunity to learn and study in a number of iconic cities across the world including Tokyo, Canada, and France, before moving to New York City to study at the Parsons School of Design. After graduation, Wu began working at the Narcisco Rodriguez studio. In February 2006, Wu released his first personal collection, which was met with praise by fashion critics and buyers alike. He quickly became one of New York’s most exciting young designers, and was given the opportunity to design a dress for Michelle Obama, America’s first lady. Today, Wu regularly designs for celebrities and political figures alike, and also lends his talents to collaborative collections with international brands. Jason is affectionately known as “the light of Taiwan.”

CAMUTO GROUP and Ownership of SOLE SOCIETY

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Camuto Group today announced the acquisition of Sole Society.  As part of Camuto Group’s focus on digital innovation, the company has acquired the majority stake in Sole Society with the strategy of enhancing category offerings and continuing to build on the strong accessories platform through extensions in apparel and other key classifications.  In addition, the Sole Society brand will be developed for global wholesale opportunities in several categories.  The acquisition will also expand Camuto Group’s ecommerce footprint across a variety of brands. Nordstrom (NYSE: JWN) will continue to carry Sole Society merchandise at Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com and will remain a minority owner.

Alex Del Cielo, Chief Executive Officer of Camuto Group, says: “We are excited to be growing the Sole Society brand platform and creating opportunities through digital innovation and category enhancements.  The team at Sole Society continues to be industry leaders in customer satisfaction and we plan to leverage their expertise to provide today’s consumer with the best experience in all channels, both online and in-store.  Furthermore, we are looking forward to working closely with Nordstrom to develop the business as part of our joint strategic efforts.”

As part of a continued focus on growth, Blake Nordstrom, Co-President of Nordstrom, Inc. said: “We applaud the job Andy Solomon and the team at Sole Society have done and think the long-term partnership created with Camuto Group is a terrific next step. Our focus is to offer customers highly relevant and differentiated product and our customers continue to respond favorably to the on-trend style Sole Society offers. We think Camuto Group is a great organization and we look forward to continuing to carry Sole Society’s product.”

Sole Society Chief Executive Officer, Andy Solomon, comments: “We are thrilled by the transaction and look forward to building brands with the Camuto Group team.  We anticipate accelerated growth through enhanced resources and the expansion of distribution that will fuel our continued development and evolution.  We look forward to incorporating the knowledge and brand building prowess of Camuto Group to create a global brand and a powerful, multi-branded ecommerce business.”

 

The partnership marks the first digital acquisition for Camuto Group and underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth through innovation and progressive partnerships.

 

About Camuto Group 

Camuto Group is an international company that designs, develops and distributes fashion footwear, accessories and apparel. The company was founded by fashion legend Vince Camuto. Renowned for its ability to develop lifestyle brands on a global scale, Camuto Group builds on the success of the Vince Camuto® brand—extending to collections that include Louise et Cie®, Two By Vince Camuto®, Vince Camuto™ Men’s, Imagine Vince Camuto® and 1. STATE®. Camuto Group also holds the footwear licenses for Jessica Simpson®, BCBGeneration®, BCBGMAXAZRIA®, and both the footwear and handbag licenses for Lucky Brand® and ED Ellen DeGeneres™. Camuto Group acquired Bernard Chaus Inc. to expand Camuto Group’s platform and develop apparel opportunities for partners. Most recently, Camuto Group entered into a partnership with Mercedes Castillo to launch an advanced contemporary lifestyle collection. Camuto Group and its partners operate 120 retail locations globally and products are sold in more than 5,400 doors worldwide.

 

About Nordstrom

Nordstrom, Inc. is a leading fashion specialty retailer based in the U.S. Founded in 1901 as a shoe store in Seattle, today Nordstrom operates 329 stores in 39 states, including 121 full-line stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico; 200 Nordstrom Rack stores; two Jeffrey boutiques; and one clearance store. Additionally, customers are served online through Nordstrom.com, Nordstromrack.com and HauteLook. The company also owns Trunk Club, a personalized clothing service serving customers online at TrunkClub.com and its five clubhouses. Nordstrom, Inc.’s common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol JWN.

About Sole Society

Sole Society is a lifestyle brand of women’s shoes, bags and accessories dedicated to thoughtful and easy style for every day. Launched in 2011, Sole Society’s mission is to teach women how to start their look from the shoes up. Sole Society is committed to providing quality on-trend shoes, bags and accessories at surprisingly affordable prices. Sole Society is available at www.solesociety.com and www.nordstrom.com as well as select Nordstrom stores nationwide.  The product can also be purchased on QVC, www.qvc.com and select boutiques around the country.

Dryel Wardrobe Solutions – Saving Money At-Home

There are so many reasons why purchasing the right fabric cleaning products will save you money.  Number one, it helps to retain the color density of your clothes. Number two, it preserves the garment from everyday wear and tear. Number three, you have the freedom to wear an outfit without saying, “This blouse should go to the dry-cleaners.”

All of the reasons listed are very simple solutions when purchasing a Dryel Kit.  It’s easy to use and can be found at a local drugstore or Target.

Dryel not only saves money but it also saves time!  The directions for using the kit includes: treat stains with the booster spray, place the garment inside of the bag with an ultra cleaning cloth, and put the bag inside of the dryer for 30 minutes. Afterwards, remove from the dryer and place on a hanger.

What an easy process to help us with our wardrobe needs! Check out the price comparison below:

Dry Cleaner Price List [ Per Item]

Dry Cleaners

Pants – $3.25

Shirts – $3.95

Suits – $6.95

Winter Coat – $7.95

Dryel | At – Home Dry Cleaner  [ Use with 4 Loads]

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Cleaner Starter Kit $9.99

Stain Pen $2.95

* Garment Bag holds up to 4 items per Load*

Dryel adds moisture to clothes, making them wrinkle-free with a chemical solution for cleaning fibers.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Dryel. The opinions expressed are from the author.

Off The Record to Partner with Nordstrom for Event

Off The Record, an exclusive fashion and music event, has announced that one of this year’s partners will be Nordstrom.  The retailer will present the latest collections from top American and European designers during a runway fashion show on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at The Factory at Franklin.  Tickets are now on sale to the public at www.OffTheRecordNashville.com.
The fashion show will feature world-renowned designers such as Naeem Khan, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Dries Van Noten, Chloe, Isabel Marant, John Varvatos and more.
“We’re excited to announce our partnership with Nordstrom, a leader in retail renowned for its ability to spot the hottest trends in fashion and design,” said event Executive Producer and President of New Heartland Group, Paul Jankowski. “We both share a vision to deliver a high energy event that will blow people away.”
The exclusive event will include red carpet arrivals, a cocktail reception, special musical performances and an intimate viewing of select designers’ looks prior to the fashion show. The complete 2016 lineup of designers and entertainment will be announced in the weeks ahead.
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Last year’s sold out event included a high energy runway fashion show featuring collections from top designers including Gucci, Kaufman Franco and John Varvatos as well as professional models and stylists from around the country.  The evening also included performances by artists The Cadillac Three, Maren Morris, Kaleo, Old Dominion, Phil Vassar and Tommy Shaw of Styx.
Tickets are on sale now ranging from $300 to $1,000 to include the cocktail reception and fashion show.  A few sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Visit www.OffTheRecordNashville.com for details, sponsorship opportunities and ticket information.

Ann Taylor ICON Pieces and Shopping Event

A wardrobe of infinite style begins and ends with timeless pieces that outlast ever-changing trends.  This September, Ann Taylor is redefining their most iconic pieces for fall – and every season after – and would like to invite you to shop the new Ann Taylor ICON pieces.

Celebrating empowered women who set their own paths and lead others while making an effortless statement by who she is and what she wears – the ICONS are the new modern classics of fashion-forward looks.

Including The Modern Suit, The Statement Dress, The Tailored Pant, The Classic Blazer, The Block Heel and more, the pieces will be available in-stores and online this September.

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Join Ann Taylor for a meet-and-greet Friends & Family event hosted by some of D.C.’s most influential bloggers and start this season with a fresh new wardrobe.

On Friday, August 19 from 12-2 PM at Ann Taylor at 600 13th Street, Style MBA will host a Friends & Family event featuring styling tips, sweet treats and refreshments. Shoppers will also receive 40% off their entire purchase – including new fall arrivals!

 

WHAT:                 Style MBA Blogger-Hosted Friends and Family Event

                                Styling tips from bloggers, refreshments and sweet treats

40% off your purchase

                               

WHEN:                 Friday, August 19 from 12-2 PM

 

WHERE:               ANN TAYLOR

600 13th Street NW

Washington, DC 20005

The Friends of Ann Taylor Event

Summer Solstice and Adventures

I wanted to make an effort (this summer) to get out and enjoy the sunlight.  After surviving the winter months and various inches of snow it was a relief to feel the heat on my skin.

I was dead set on venturing out in Tampa, Florida.  One thing I can’t resist is a great meal and wine tasting. The photo shown is from Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant. It’s an upscale working winery where customers can also become members. We decided to sit outside while viewing the palm trees and water fountain.

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I am a fashion blogger and it’s a ritual to drop by shopping malls when visiting a new area.  International Plaza was no exception to my tradition. The fascinating concept about this particular center is the mixture of stores and Bay Street food court.  It’s an open-air village with restaurants; very exciting for night-life.  I’m also a people watcher and relish in the distinct styles (or fashion) for each region.

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It’s no secret that my hair is natural.  I made the transition three years ago due to chemical damage on my edges.  Being natural is a personal preference because I am more health conscious.

Amongst my friends, I’m also known for changing my hair styles (often) and can be seen wearing accessories,  twist outs, extensions, or wigs.  After watching several Youtube videos I was finally able to accomplish a turban.  This was my favorite summer go-to style when I’m seeking a sleek look.

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The Tampa Club
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Disney World Magic Kingdom
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Boy Scout Boulevard
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Supper Club

“The Tans Will Fade But The Memories Will Last Forever.” – Unknown

CABANA SOUTHAMPTON LAUNCHES E-COMMERCE Platform

Wednesday, August 3, 2016: Today, August 3, 2016, Cabana, the Southampton pop-up store where fashion, art, and culture coexist, is excited to announce the launch of the shop’s e-commerce platform at https://cabananewyork.com.

The new e-commerce platform brings the summertime pop-up to a global audience with the new online offering of high profile, celeb-favortied brands matched with expertly curated designer vintage finds from Cabana’s founder, Julie Heller, who operates a by-appointment-only vintage gallery in Soho called Eraluxe.  With the new online shopping experience at https://cabananewyork.com consumers can now get the essential wardrobe staples that have been spotted on the likes of celebrity clients including Rihanna, Beyoncé Knowles, Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Chrissy Teigen and more.

Anine Bing black lace bralette ANINE BING BRA $89 ANINE BING Chunky Cardigan $349 ANINE BING Silver leather skirt $499 ATALAYE LA COTE $140 Baggu Black Static Carry All $64 HASHTAG HAMPTONS CREWNECK SWEATSHIRT Hotel Costes Body Lotion $50

Cabana serves as a resource for expertly curated luxury items for the sophisticated and educated consumer who finds themself in The Hamptons during the summer season. The shop, which first opened in May 2015, carries a mix of women’s, men’s, and home designers brought to you from cities around the globe like Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, Marrakech, Paris, and Tokyo as well as the home base of founder & curator Julie Heller, New York City. Cabana’s minimal gallery-like interiors are outfitted with works by Chris Martin, Leo Gabin, Rob Pruitt, Tony Lewis & Walead Beshty. The concept store hosts a range of coveted brands such as Alyx Studios, AMO Denim, Anine Bing, Auguste, Edith A. Miller, retaW, Alex Israel’s Icarus, Deer Dana, LaCausa, One Grey Day, Simon Miller, Veda, EraLuxe, Atalaye, Industry of All Nations, Frankie, La Paz, Stampd L.A., Freeway Eyewear, Janessa Leone, KREWE du optic, Lack of Color, Love Me Baby by Curtis Kulig, Matt Bernson, People Footwear, Regime des Fleurs, Hotel Costes, Ligne Blanche Paris, Medicom Toy Bearbrick, Studio Sandoval, Well Received, BAGGU, Nikolai Rose, and more…

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Macy’s Fall Fashion 2016 Lookbook

Macy’s Fall Fashion 2016 Lookbook –

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This fall, Macy’s is helping kids kick the school year off in high style. With throwback 90s looks ruling the runways, Macy’s is offering returning students a nod to old school trends, along with incredible savings on clothing, accessories and dorm items to make this year’s start to school the most anticipated yet.

“The excitement of heading back to school is punctuated by the art of back-to-school shopping,” said Cassandra Jones, Macy’s senior vice president – fashion. “Macys aims to make that the ultimate experience, offering the latest styles and trends in everything from the right outfit to the right dorm accessories, ensuring students can head back to class in style.”

Back-to-School Fashion

Junior girls channel the 90s, sporting casual looks with plenty of attitude, inspired by the grunge style of plaid shirts, distressed denim and overalls. Denim in all silhouettes is bigger than ever this year, from dresses to shirts to wide-legged jeans. Paired with chunky platforms and booties, these iconic 90s pieces get a fun and fresh update perfect for the classroom.

For young men, the 90s comeback continues with denim styles from classic to distressed. Cuffed jeans are paired with high-top chukkas, which are given a trendy update with athletic soles. Tees with graphics of classic 90s video games, TV shows and witty memes give the old school t-shirt and jeans uniform a modern and quirky bent.

The 90s craze applies to fashion for kids, as well, but in a more scaled down version. Young girls sporting flannel dresses or cuffed denim will rock the halls, while boys in graphic throwback tees with gaming and skateboard images will rule the school in comfort.

 

Back-to-School Deals

Shoppers will have the best selections to choose from at Macy’s, the back-to-school destination for savings and style. Find all the go-tos they can’t live without—tops and tees, rompers and dresses, pants and jeans—even the true essentials like uniforms. Also, add in all the finishing touches—from hoodies, sweaters and jackets down to underwear, socks and shoes. Brands including Levi’s, Betsey Johnson, Benefit, Martha Stewart Whim, American Rag and Epic Threads have some of the best deals to match every kid’s preferred school day look. Visit your local Macy’s store and macys.com for savings throughout the season.

Dorm

Whether a first year away or packing it up for the last time, college living is cool and trendy with lifestyle essentials from Macy’s. Whim comforter sets in fresh new patterns offer options to fit each student’s personal living space. Studying is stylish with Poppin desk sets and accessories. Colorful letter trays and pencil pouches make organization fun. A Joy Mangano mini steamer is easy to store in a small dorm living space and keeps wrinkles away and help show off new, flawless threads on campus.

Love Bravery

Macy’s partnered with Grammy®, Tony® and Academy Award®-winning legend Sir Elton John, along with Grammy and Golden Globe®-winning icon Lady Gaga to create Love Bravery, a high-spirited, limited-edition line of clothing and accessories that inspire compassion and combat prejudice. Perfect for anyone heading back to school, Love Bravery includes shirts, sweats, outerwear, clutches, backpacks, scarves, beanies, keychains, pins and even speakers, water bottles and skateboards, all rendered in vibrant graphic prints and designs that fuse both artists’ renowned musical talent and revered inimitable style. Love Bravery is sold exclusively at select Macy’s stores and on macys.com/lovebravery, with 25 percent of the purchase price benefitting Born This Way Foundation and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and will be available globally later this year. All donations from the limited-edition line, on sale through Aug. 30, 2016, will be made to Born This Way Foundation, which will use 50 percent to support the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

In-Store Celebrations Nationwide

Macy’s is throwing back to the 90s through in-store themed events nationwide that prove everything old is cool again. On Saturdays from Aug. 6 to 27 at select stores, Macy’s will host throwback-themed shopping parties with awesome activities, including styling tips and fashion must-haves, photo booths with totally 90s props, and a DJ spinning old school beats. Cosmetic outposts with makeup artists will provide 90s-inspired beauty makeovers to show how to flawlessly achieve a throwback look with a modern twist. To add to the excitement, actresses Katie Cassidy and Ashley Rickards will be making several store appearances for a photo-op and meet and greet with customers. For the 4*1*1, visit macys.com/events.

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About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 734 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.