As the first official days of summer approach, Alber Elbaz and Charlotte Ronson are launching us into the season with two inspired collaborations – for Lancome and Starbucks, respectively.  Fronted by high fashion masterminds, the latest designer duds produced for the masses look promising too.  Launched last weekend, Hypnose Show by Alber Elbaz has added his quirky touch to some of Lancome’s essentials, lending a cute cartoon and runway chic feel to mascara tubes and eye shadow palettes.  Close behind is the release of Ronson’s ceramic mug for Starbucks reflecting a lazy days of summer vibe.  Mark your calendar for June 25 when this coffee drinker’s must-have hits select shops.

Ink Detroit, a Detroit-based company that was founded in 2005 by Steven Mansour and Paul Marcialis is proud to announce the recent introduction of a baby clothing line, featuring clothing for infants and toddlers that are embellished with unique Detroit-themed designs.

“We are extremely excited to introduce a children’s clothing line to Ink Detroit,” said Steve Mansour, co-founder and owner of Ink Detroit. “Our men’s and women’s products have been very popular and we thought it would be a great idea to produce designs for the youngest generation of Detroiters. Our children are the future of Motor City and now they can wear this city’s name with pride as well.”

The new baby line includes infant and toddler clothes for both boys and girls. The company designed “My Crib is in the D” and “ABCD” onesies for infants. The toddler T-shirts feature “My First Detroit Tee,” “ABCD” and “I’m a Motor City Kid” designs. All of the children’s clothing can be purchased online at www.inkdetroit.com for only $20.

Ink Detroit also carries stylish men’s and women’s clothing, plus accessories such as bracelets, hats and tote bags that are embellished with Detroit Style, Detroit Love, Detroit Humor and Toughness.

Shannon Lazovski is the CEO of SoGlam Media & Founder/Editor of Detroit Fashion News.  Find out more about Shannon here. 

The Michigan F.A.S.H. (Fashion, Arts, Sound, History) Fest held it’s second annual event called “The ‘Reveal,’ a Beauty and Trend Showcase” in Detroit’s own Carr Center (its first event was held in September of 2012 at The Detroit Opera House). The focus was everything that the “F.A.S.H.” acronym stands for and surely succeeded in providing its audience a pleasant eyeful of beauty and art.

Upon entering The Carr Center, the first floor was dedicated to the photography of Detroit’s own exquisite photographers including Dan Lippitt, Boswell, Jason Loudermilk, and Janna Bissett as well as the jewelry showcase of Eric Beamon. Leslie Pilling, CEO and founder of MFF, made her opening remarks and soon afterwards viewers progressed into the next exhibit.

The second floor displayed the 3D hair sculptures of The Social Club Grooming Co., Golden Goddess, Antonino Salon & Spa, Meredith Lorde, and Hair Matters. Fashion forward garment pieces were worn by models which gave an impactful awe factor only to display more surprising talent within Michigan.

While advancing to the exclusive reveal on the third floor, the audience was serenaded by violinists including Sonia Lee who has been playing the violin for more than 30 years. As the spectators were surrounded by the theater remains, it suddenly came to life as they were told it is set for physical restoration as well as a future community artist hub for those who have a passion in photography, dance, music, arts, and culture. This was history in the making.

Thank you Leslie Pilling for this successful and special affair as well as all the sponsors and contributors. Looking forward to the next Michigan F.A.S.H. Fest event!

Michigan F.A.S.H. Fest
Facebook
Twitter

The Carr Center
Facebook
Twitter

Detroit native Jireh De Jose  is a 21-year-old reaching for her dreams. After graduating from Brandon High School in Ortonville, Michigan in 2009, she studied Fashion Merchandising at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. To learn more about Jireh click here.

1. Jewel tones

Gucci

Source

Did you know that Pantone declared 2013’s color of the year emerald? Gem and jewel shades are perfect for this upcoming season especially if you have any formal parties to attend this summer. If you don’t have an available jewel tone garment in your closet, go for an actual jewel itself. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Baubles of bracelets, necklaces, and earrings are just as chic as their garment associates.

2. Ombre jean shorts

Source

These are everywhere! These gradient colors come in a variety of colors adorned with studs and distress. Any plain, simple top can be worn since these bottoms make a statement themselves. As a refashion advocate, try making them yourself with bleach and some fabric dye. There are tons of YouTube videos to refer to!

3. Sequins

Source

Erika mentioned that most people believe sequins can only be worn during a night out whereas she will wear them whenever. I would have to agree with her! Sequins can be acceptable during the daytime as long as they’re subdued and not head to toe. Try leaving the gold and silver shimmer for nighttime and pastel colors during the day.

4. Skater Skirt

Source

A-line, full circle, flared, whatever you want to call it, skater skirts are a modern version of the 1950s housewife dresses that ended at the calves. Dress it up or down; it gives an automatic flirty flair.

5. Mixing Prints

Source

Remember when mixing prints was unthinkable and it was considered a definite fashion no-no? Now it’s regarded as a total fashion forward look. It’s a unique spin and done by those who are brave and confident. Camo and floral? Yes!

6. Black and White

Source

A black and white ensemble is perhaps the most chic attire you can wear. It allures classiness and grace. The color combo itself has made a big arrival this year and is one of the top trends to try this summer. It’s okay, you can go back to your florals and neons later.

Collage Source: Polyvore

Luxury Girl Boutique

27252 Southfield Road

Lathrup Village, MI 48076

Like LGB on Facebook

Follow LGB on Twitter

For more information on this event, please visit www.justjireh.com

“As a designer, you’ve always got to push yourself forward; you’ve always got to keep up with the trends or make your own trends. That’s what I do.” – Alexander McQueen

Detroit native Jireh De Jose  is a 21-year-old reaching for her dreams. After graduating from Brandon High School in Ortonville, Michigan in 2009, she studied Fashion Merchandising at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. To learn more about Jireh click here.

1. Miniskirts: London

Photo Source

Polyvore

Thank you, Mary Quant, for being the “mother of the miniskirt” which is one of the most classic pieces in a woman’s wardrobe to date. As it was adopted by teenagers of the 1960s, the skirt became a mainstay during the mod era. Named after Quant’s favorite car, the “mini” became a favorite to ladies for generations to come and can be paired with just about anything.

2. Dr. Martens: Germany

Photo Source

Polyvore

Synonymous with the grunge style, Dr. Martens were created in the 1950s which was solely used for practical purposes. Today, the brand has developed into an iconic footwear company with a collection of different styles such as patent, floral and leopard print, heeled, studded, and much more. What’s your favorite?

3. Espadrilles: Spain

Photo Source

Polyvore

The shoe that screams summer! The rope edge and sole give a fun under-the-sun feel that’s perfect for any walk in the park, a shopping trip to the local farmer’s market, or roaming around through the city.

4. Aloha shirt: Hawaii, USA

 Photo Source

Polyvore

In the 1930s, Ellery Chun started sewing shirts from leftover kimono fabric which started a frenzy with servicemen after World War II in the islands. Since then the aloha shirt became a go-to tropical piece and is still trending in bright colors and the well-known palm trees of our country’s 50^th state.

5. Little Black Dress: France

Photo Source

Polyvore

It’s the dress that is the most necessary in any woman’s closet. Made popular by Coco Chanel (who else) the LBD is the most classic piece in fashion history. You can literally take this dress out anywhere from breakfast to dinner, morning to night.

Wherever this summer may take you this year, always dress as if the world is your runway!

Detroit native Jireh De Jose  is a 21-year-old reaching for her dreams. After graduating from Brandon High School in Ortonville, Michigan in 2009, she studied Fashion Merchandising at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. To learn more about Jireh click here.

Photo courtesy of NBC

“Everyone wants to wear your stuff and now they can,” declared an excited Jessica Simpson, coach to New York-based designer Hunter Bell, the second season winner of NBC’s Fashion Star.

On stage in a shimmering silver dress, the South Carolina native’s dream came true last Friday night as she defeated finalists Cassandra Hobbins (Team John Varvatos) and Daniel Silverstein (Team Nicole Richie) on the show’s finale.

“It’s just too much to take in,” exclaimed Bell, owner of contemporary womenswear label, Hunter Dixon.

The fashion design competition featured 13 designers competing for an incredible $3 million contract and an exclusive capsule collection to be sold in the show’s retail partners – Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Express.

For the final challenge, Silverstein, Hobbins and Bell were to create a spring collection for each of the retailers. With the guidance of their coaches, the designers sent their concluding creations down the catwalk to be judged by the buyers.

In a close battle for the gold, Bell was crowned the champion. The show’s premier season saw New York designer Kara Laricks take home the grand prize, then a $6 million contract with Macy’s, H&M and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Already a favorite of women everywhere, Bell launched her label in 2006 with then roommate, Jennifer Dixon. The New York City brand can be found in 200 boutiques worldwide, including Anthropologie, and is proudly produced in the city’s iconic garment district.

Distinguished by a whimsical femininity, Bell utilizes bold colors and abstract prints. She draws inspiration from her surroundings – whether it be a piece of vintage fabric or the women of Manhattan.

A graduate of the University of Alabama, Bell cut her teeth interning for designers Nanette Lepore and Rebecca Taylor. Later, she extended her education at Parsons New School and went to work as an assistant designer at Jones Apparel Group before starting her own brand.

Her exclusive Fashion Star collection is already available for purchase both online and in stores. From her coral red palazzo pants at Saks, to the neon moto vest at Express and a statement-making printed blazer at Macy’s, Bell’s designs are set to be at the top of every fashionista’s wish list this season. Stay tuned, as this is the designer and label to watch.

Born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit, Giuseppa always had her eye on the big city. Her passion for writing and fashion led her to internships at Vogue Magazine, Giorgio Armani, HOUR Detroit Magazine and Real Detroit Weekly. To learn more about Giuseppa click here.

Lift:Detroit has become increasingly popular this year for several reasons. It isn’t often you come across a black tie gala in the city; yet alone one that truly focuses on the sustainability of Detroit. This formal affair will summons entrepreneurs, creative thinkers, young professionals, educators and true city ambassadors who want to make a difference. With Lift:Detroit tickets starting at just $40 per person, this gala has made it obvious that bringing together prolific minds is the focus of the evening. The Detroit Historical Museum will play host to this formal affair as this year Lift:Detroit plans on housing over one thousand attendees.
What will you wear to Lift:Detroit? Black tie events are always fun to shop for. There will be no shortage of gowns in your local mall. Department stores such as Macy’s, Nordstroms and Von Maur have formal fashions available year round. But when shopping for a ‘black-tie’ event will you know what to look for?

There seems to be much confusion about the definition of ‘black tie’. Black tie is a dress code stemming from late evening events in the 19th century. Men are expected to a wear a black or midnight blue suit with contrasting lapels or trouser braid [typically silk], a white shirt and a black bow tie. This is the simplest form of black tie. In todays’ fashion we can look for bold colors and prints, cuff links and vests or ascots to dress up the typical formal fashion. The male gender has taken an innovative approach to enhancing the once very orthodox appearance a suit can have.

It was once suggested that women wear floor or tea length sleeveless gowns with a stole and dinner gloves for black tie events. This is no longer the standard. Since formal wear is so very prevalent in almost every department store, women have more fashions to choose from. While most will arrive in floor length gowns, cocktail dresses will be equally as appropriate.

With more than 30 sponsors and partners it is easy to see why the community and A-List companies like MGM Grand, VBLifestyle.com and HOUR Detroit support Lift:Detroit. Hosted by Melinda Ann Prince of Look@Detroit and Rachel Simone of the Rachel Simone Show, Lift:Detroit guests can expect positive and entertaining communiqué all evening. The most stylish ride in town, Uber has also partnered with Lift:Detroit to provide transportation in style. After downloading the Uber App on your phone, just enter the promo code ‘liftdetroit’ to receive 50% off two rides. Expect to be dazzled with local artwork and entertainment from local musicians as part of the evenings’ package. BLEU Nightclub is hosting the official lift:DETROIT after-party; Lift Detroit Afterglow. This gala is a night out you won’t want to miss!

Lift:Detroit
Presented by: The EYS Group, Cascading Krystals and Valiant PR
Detroit Historical Museum
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Doors open at 7pm
www.liftdetroitgala.com

Melinda Ann Prince is a radio personality out of Detroit, Michigan. She can be seen on the red carpet covering events from the Sundance Film Fest to the Entertainment Choice Awards. To read more about Melinda click here.

Before the decade became grunge-y and dark-hued, the ‘90s had its moment of flashy colors and crazy prints that overflowed from the buzzing ‘80s. Butterfly clips, platform sneakers, hair scrunchies, and chokers are all synonymous with the late pre-millenium. Additional (definitely not all) trends during this time are making a grand entrance to fashion once again including these:

1. Overalls

1- Pacsun

2- Urban Outfitters

3- Go Jane

4- Threadsence

The garment which used to be associated with farmers and where you were considered cool if you had one strap unbuckled. Denim was typically the main fabric choice but now being it the 20^th century you can find an array of overalls or “shorteralls” of leather, ombré, floral, polka dots, and other conversational prints.

How to style: If you didn’t donate your denim overalls and still have a pair in your closet, wear a bright, printed top underneath. Pair with casual yet fashionable sneakers for a more 90s look (ex. Converse not Skechers) and accessorize with bangles and a chunky necklace. And, why not, unbuckle that strap!

2. Jelly shoes

1- Mulberry

2- Salvatore Ferragamo

3- Topshop

4- Chinese Laundry

5- Kate Spade

6- Chinese Laundry

As rubberized and uncomfortable they may have actually been, it was all about the translucency and specks of glitter, right?

How to style: Since your jelly sandals or flats are an eye-catching accessory themselves, wear a black fitted top and neutral shorts. Wear a summer hat along with color-popping jewelry to balance out your shoes to lift more color into your ensemble.

3. Cropped tops

1- Miss Selfridge

2- Topshop

3- She Likes

4- Victoria’s Secret

5- Tilly’s

6- 2020 Ave

It’s a piece that can definitely make one body conscious but yes, cropped tops can still be tasteful without looking raunchy. If you’re not comfortable wearing fitted shirts, there are always flowy and oversized cropped tops you can choose from.

How to style now:  The key is to wear high waisted jeans or shorts instead of bottoms that fall on your hips. Try a crop top with a fun print, black high waisted shorts, ankle booties, a beanie, and gold jewelry to accessorize. Try pairing a crop top with overalls, too!

4. High waisted shorts

1. American Apparel

2. Forever 21

3. Pixie Market

4. Boo Hoo

5. Ralph Lauren

These have been around for seasons upon seasons. Some would even say they’re a closet essential. It seems as though every year they get more creative with designs- ombré, studded and spiked, tie-dyed, and added fabrication of mesh, leopard print, and other patterned fabrics.

How to style: Besides pairing them with crop tops, you can also wear any type of T-shirt and tuck them in. To amplify the ‘90s a bit more, tie your hair into a messy bun and add a bandana. Don your look with simple jewelry and a colorful shoulder bag.

5. Snapbacks

1- Vans

2- Boo Hoo

3- Obey

4- River Island

5- Karmaloop

6- Bank Fashion

7- Karmaloop

Very popular with hip-hop music and dance addicts, snapbacks have been around just as long as high waisted bottoms have. There are hundreds of different styles of snapback hats in which the most unique ones can be found online.

How to style: This head accessory can go with any outfit mentioned above. It’s all about letting your hair down; you may tease it out or keep it tamed. Just add your favorite hat to add cool and casualness to your relaxed style!

Welcome to the ’90s!

Photo source: Polyvore

Detroit native Jireh De Jose  is a 21-year-old reaching for her dreams. After graduating from Brandon High School in Ortonville, Michigan in 2009, she studied Fashion Merchandising at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. To learn more about Jireh click here.

Five – Jessica Biel

Source: www.washingtonpost.com

While not a fan of Biel or many of her red carpet looks, here, the Giambattista Valli is what stood out on the red carpet with Jessica simply the body for this masterpiece to be displayed upon.  The high-low skirt with train were ever so on trend for 2013.  What won me over from the start were the perfect fabric and webbed leggings.

Four – Cara Delevingne

Source: www.glamour.com

Lady Delevingne was absolutely smoldering on this year’s red carpet.  From the perfect faux side shave hairstyle to the accessories to the Burberry spikes, Cara was, like always, leading the pack with her model style.  Few had the punk look down better.

Three – Allison Williams

Source: www.popsugar.com

Though I can’t say I am a fan of the Girls phenom or this actress in particular, here, Williams was a definite show stopper in Altuzarra.  This piece had the perfect mix of sheer, lace fabrics, providing just the right amount of coverage.  I liked the chic, glam vibe of Williams’s shiny hair and perfect makeup allowing her to address the evening’s theme while maintaining a red carpet elegance.

Two – Marion Cotillard

Source: www.usmagazine.com

Ms. Cotillard is always a favorite of mine and this year’s Met Gala was no exception.  Ever perfect in Dior, I loved the mix of fabrics and angles, with a flash of yellow peeking out from the underside of her skirt.  For me, Cotillard represented a high fashion version of the girlfriend of a token punk boy that you’d find in a 90s high school classroom.  This is one red carpet lady who never needs to be over the top to be noticed.

One - Sarah Jessica Parker

Source: www.glamour.com

Little wonder, SJP owned the red carpet in an overwhelming Giles Deacon dress, Philip Treacy headpiece, and Louis Vuitton boots.  She had me at the gold and black faux-hawk.  And that dress!  I absolutely loved it’s many shapes and angles with a perfect pattern, just the right amount of tulle, and a slit up the front to reveal those plaid thigh-high boots and perfect pins!  The former Carrie Bradshaw will obviously never disappoint us on a night like this!

The Queen of the Night - Gwen Stefani

Source: www.thegloss.com

Dressed in Maison Martin Margiela, Gwen was effortlessly spot on.  This was without a doubt THE Met Ball for her and husband Gavin Rosdale to shine in their element.  Paired with the type of funky updo she is known for, a signature red lip, and matching nails, Gwen was easily right at home on the red carpet that left so many others out of place.

Honourable Mentions - Sienna Miller, Kate Bosworth, Jourdan Dunn

Source: styleblog.ca, www.spottedfashion.com, www.zimbio.com

I was absolutely taken with Sienna Miller’s (all Burberry) studded jacket and punky accessories though I can’t say the simple white dress had the same effect on me.  Kate Bosworth was a perfect candidate to rock a metallic Balmain number and her figure looked fabulous.  Finally, Jourdan Dunn, though not one of my usual go-to style icons, had a great look with her sheer-skirted Topshop dress and I was disappointed not to find more photos of her on the red carpet.