Ghassan Yazbeck Fall/Winter 2012

Posted on February 21, 2012 by yougogirl

My coverage of NY Fashion Week continues. I had to take a bit of a break. My last post impacted me more than I imagined, and I felt I had to sit with it for a bit…Fashion Week in NY not only takes place at Lincoln Center as you know, it happens all over town.

For the last several seasons, I have been trying to catch what the organizers at IFashion/IConcept have been putting together. Production quality aside, IFashion usually presents super unique and talented new designers. Ghassan Yazbeck was on my list to check out (See my NYFW Fall 2012 Preview Post) and I am so glad I did. When you hear “recent grad”, you often think “young” designer. What pleasantly surprised me about this designer is that this is a second career after working as a clinical pharmacist for years. With a fascinating back story as a immigrant to Canada fleeing Lebanon in 1976 due to the severe conditions of the civil war in that country, the designer obviously has a great history to draw his design inspiration upon.

The combination of wool crepe and leather were lovely and perfect for Fall/Winter. I was drawn to the architecture of the tailored pieces with the pairing of the draped pieces. Alone or combined, each piece was a stand out. The printed chiffon for the Fall collection was gorgeous and a perfect complement to the bold red, black and white of the rest of the pieces.

Initially, I was drawn to checking this new designer out for his sustainability angle of designing and manufacturing his collection in New York ~ An added sustainable bonus. I anticipate we will be seeing more of Ghassan Yazbeck…I was so glad I made the show with just minutes to spare. RL

Photo Credits | IConcept for Ghassan Yazbeck

How a girl cures the post VDay blues…

Posted on February 15, 2012 by yougogirl

…Shoes! A new site launched yesterday where you can earn dollars toward your shoe purchases. A new online site called www.lovebeloved.com offers guilt-free retail therapy because the site actually rewards its members for shopping.

Much more than an online retailer or membership site, Love Be Loved rewards subscribers that ”Share” items they like on Facebook. They receive free shipping and Love Bucks credit that they can use toward their purchases.

What could be really great about this concept is, while giving members incentives that promote Love Be Loved on Facebook, the company also helps designers maintain the exclusivity of their brand. All merchandise on the Love Be Loved site is listed at full retail price, unlike discount sites. To receive free shipping and Love Bucks, consumers must promote Love Be Loved on Facebook. Because of this unique requirement, Love Be Loved offers an ecommerce solution to designers who want to reach today’s key influencers in the social media scene.

Potentially, this will allow designers on Love Be Loved to offer new items all the time. Since the availability can often be limited in quantity, the social media aspect allows the word to be spread quickly.

Pretty cool I’d say. There are only a few styles on the site right now, but I am assured that more and more will be added in the future. Happy Shopping. RL

Independent Fashion Bloggers Unite!

Posted on September 9, 2010 by yougogirl

Today at the Hudson Hotel, independent fashion bloggers from all over the world united at to hear from key trailblazers in the industry. I was impressed all around and each speaker had something amazing to contribute. Not surprising, but Gala Darling wowed the crowd with not only her style, but her fabulously succinct presentation.

Additional fashion blogs of presenters that stood out to me and why are:

lookbook.nu | Street style right from the source, people taking their own shots and inspiring fashion word wide.

stylebubble .co.uk | Susie Lau is a woman after my own heart who get’s the independent spirit of art of fashion.

cupcakesandcashmere | Emily Schuman is a perfectionist. I love it. And, it is great to check out her west coast style sensibilities.

The event was put together by Independent Fashion Bloggers.com.

I have a lot I would love to share with you my loyal readers and ask that you continue to comment and send me facebook messages about what you want me cover and write about. After all, I started this blog for you. The most compelling thing I came away from this conference is that my blog has to be authentically me. And, I must say, whether my posts from one to another make sense or not, they certainly are a representation of what I observe in life…lifestyle & fashion. I am inspired and you shall see the results soon. RL

photo credit: Gala Darling at 2010 Fashion Week Fashion Blog Conference.

Sustainable & Stylish Hotspots in Seattle

Posted on June 22, 2010 by yougogirl

This weekend on a dreary Sunday morning. My super stylish friends and I participated in the SSF Sustainable Running Tour of Downtown Seattle. When I say “running”, I use the word lightly. We jogged…at a slow pace. I wore my drop crotch Y3 Sweatpants and, my gal pals look stylish in their hip sunglasses, despite the clouds, and running gear. But, that wasn’t the important part. The key to the event was the education we all had as we went from point to point and learned about what was sustainable about it. As co-founder of SSF, I am still learning and had loads of fun sharing what I learned about some of these spots. I am going to be posting blogs all week on the SSF site, sustainablestyle.org, that will highlight each of the stops. Please go there and check them out. RL

For more information about how we can help you make sustainable choices with your personal wardrobe, click here, or contact me at rebecca@lesegoistes.com

Tangerine | Who says you can’t be comfortable & sexy

Posted on May 30, 2010 by yougogirl

Leave it to us gals, we want it all. Yes, we want to be sexy, but we want comfort too. The two founders of Tangerine, Dr. Deborah Adams & Kari Vaughn know this all too well.

I love this line and think you will too. The panties are fabulous and perfect for the summer under your shorter than short skirts and dresses. Beyond that, they will be comfortable under most of your clothes. The designers have ensured that there is a panty style for all needs, shapes and sizes. Their lounge pants are lovely with a rise an inch higher thank Juicy Couture, thank God. Oh and the tanks, amazingly comfortable and a perfect underpinning.I was able to test, wash and use their product while shooting on my last film and I am sold. The color lasts and with each wash, even more soft and amazing with no pilling. A huge asset.

It’s clear they care about women and they take it one step further. “Tangerine is more than just comfort and sexiness it is about change and the opportunity to help fight women’s causes worldwide. Tangerine is currently partnering with women’s organizations and giving back to celebrate life…” they quote on their site. Say it with me, “sexy and sustainable”…woot, woot.The line just launched in April and their pieces are already available at Fred Segal and soon at a lovely boutique near you. RL

Edwing D’Angelo

Posted on March 10, 2010 by yougogirl

New York Fashion Week is hectic. Especially right after a blizzard. We do our best to look cute in our layers, and figure out the best boots to wear so we look cute and don’t have to carry a change of shoes, because there is just no time…At any moment an email or text could come in on my blackberry directing us uptown when we are still downtown and we move, we move quickly…

This season, the wonderful surprise last minute email came in for a benefit show at the Waldorf – Astoria. Fashion for Autism intrigued me from the Sustainable Style point of view. I am always so proud to be from an industry, that always puts forth their design focus and combines it with highlighting a cause.

Admittedly, I wasn’t aware of this soon to be one of my fav designers, EdwingD’Angelo . I didn’t know what to expect? The room was fab and the runway was a square, allowing the guests to soak up the essence of the room. There were other design vendors in the lobby, we didn’t stop. Truthfully, I didn’t enjoy that aspect in the lobby, I would suggest, no tables and only garment racks with beautiful chairs.

As we sat and saw the first of the designs, I was disappointed. The whole thing. Thank god, it wasn’t Edwing. Not sure who it was, don’t care.
As the music amped up, I watched a gorgeous model with a great dane take the stage…oh, this is going to be good. And it was more than good. It was fab.

Edwing D’Angelo’s vision is obvious couture, making each person his palate. His attention to detail is equisite and his flare for drama is evident. I only hope we can get some of his ready to wear interpretations soon. Here is what his press says about him and his line: “The Edwing D’Angelo line is dedicated to creating garments for men and woman which make them be visible and want to be seen. With a keen eye on construction and superbfabrics, D’Angelo weaves glamour into chic spirit and dazzle with the reintroduction of his artistic vision and sculpted visuals form for avant-garde fashion. Pattie Labelle, Chyna Layne, Mo’Nique, Sean Paul, Laurie Metcalf, Nelly and Vivica A. Fox among others have worn Edwing D’Angelo for prestigious Hollywood events.”

The theme for this collection? “New York State of Mind”…yes. A retro nod to the 40′s and 50′s. I saw that but I saw more decades represented.

I can say after meeting him personally, that is all well and good, but Edwing is garmento who really really cares about making you look good. Fastidious about fit and color, he really gets it. It is so amazing to meet a designer who really understands construction. Plus, he is quite sweet. A bonus in this industry.

While I adore his gowns, I really am intrigued by his menswear and interpreting that for women. Surprise, surprise…

As far as standouts in the show, the menswear for sure. The gowns were fun with the big eighties bow. My friend Jackie designed a big bow dress or two like this back in the day. Shout out. I personally would wear the one strap, two tone gown. Love it.

The hair for the Fall showing of Edwing D’Angelo was done by first lady Michelle Obama’s stylist, Johnny Wright ~ Again, a true artist.

Top it off that this show raised awareness ~ Fashion for Autism, Inc.’s mission is to heighten public awareness of Autism and to provide donations to charitable organizations that foster Fashion for Autism, Inc.’s commitment to education, support and resources for individuals and families living with, and affected by, illnesses across the Autism spectrum. Fashion for Autism, Inc. uses its fashion platform to solicit support from media, celebrities, and those in the fashion and entertainment industries to help raise awareness for Autism. Fashion for Autism, Inc. challenges everyone to “Be Significant!”

I heart you Edwing and Fashion for Autism. Can’t wait to see more. RL

P.S. The photos here don’t do the pieces justice. Really stunning in person.

Ports 1961 Fall 2010

Posted on February 18, 2010 by yougogirl

It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Ports 1961. I am always impressed with every aspect from the design, to fabric choices and color ways.
This season is no exception. My first of the last shows in Bryant Park, I felt nostalgic and was happy that the Ports show was kicking off my season.

With the theme word of Craeft (Craft) meaning a work or product of art, science, machine, the Fall 2010 collection accomplished what designer Tia Cibani wanted; a representation of a world where technological co-exists with the natural.
Through the use of vintage Victorian techniques of sewing and pattern making, Tia was able to showcase the classic expertise of this genre with gorgeous current silhouettes.

I fell in love with the whole collection that appealed to my personal aesthetic with neutrals upon neutral (Freesia, Chicory, Clover & Pepper) with hints of rich pop colors (Mulberry, Tobacco, Iris and Rosemary). Yummy.

The silhouettes for Fall, including Ports, are still loose with structure in strategic places such as shoulders and hips. I personally am loving this. Highlight pieces for me in the collection included the jumpsuits. I have and will always love the jumpsuit.

The shoulder necklace and leather skullcaps also intrigued me as a fresh new perspective on accessories.

I loved the hair for this show. Big, curly, 70′s and a perfect juxtapose to the function of the pieces. More coming from two weeks of New York Fashion Events. RL

For more on how RLS can help you with your style, go to lesegoistes.com.

Let’s Blow it Out

Posted on December 8, 2009 by yougogirl

It is mid holiday party season and it’s Tuesday…you have five parties this week, have to work and only will have half an hour to get all “sequined and shiny”…what about your party hair?!?

Over the last year, I have become a big fan of the “blow out”. Most of my NYC gals have been doing this for years. It is worth the 50 – 60 bucks and saves a lot of time. This fall when my Hair Diva Viv came to visit me during my tenure in NYC, we spent some time searching for the perfect blowout. We found a gem in Tribeca, Nicole Parkinson at Lance Lappin Salon. I got a wonderful blowout in my favorite hood, Greenpoint, at The Parlour by Kristin Jones ~ fab stylist (Thanks again to my Hair Diva for that hookup). Not only did a get a great blowout, the salon itself is gorgeous and they have the coolest smocks made of vintage kimono fabrics. The espresso was key at 4 p.m. before a big evening. Near South Seaport, Pepper Pastor Salon has been recommended very highly by a very trusted resource…I will be heading there in February and will give you a personal report.

In Seattle, not only can you get a blow out, you can get a cool style at Killer Looks Salon located in Belltown. For an event last month, I got a fabulous wave style that had a nouveau vintage groove a la the 40s that I would never been able to accomplish on my own. If you want to hit somewhere other than downtown, check out the stylists at Baba Louise by Phinney Ridge/Ballard.

Another option? Hair Extensions. Yes, you too can have glamorous locks for the season and wow your co-workers and friends with a longer hair look. The best is to have extensions that are tied and with no glue or silicon involved. There is a great new gal in town at Killer Looks, Kandra, who really knows her stuff.

Please, do me a favor and stay away from a salon up do …not appropriate for the season or style these days. Fun, healthy, flowing and sexy hair is what we are going to be on the lookout for. RL

For more ideas on your holiday style contact les Egoistes.

Photo Credit | Killer Looks Salon

Abi Ferrin Spring 2010

Posted on November 6, 2009 by yougogirl

It is no secret that I have favorite designers. It’s that special combo of great design, amazing fabrics, incredible cuts and cool personalities that allow certain designers and brands to top my list. Abi Ferrin is one of them. I have blogged about her before, so check that out here.

I am excited for Seattle this week because Abi will be here on Friday, November 6 for a special event and all weekend working with clients at The Finerie. I had a chance to check out her show in September and was super excited for her Spring 10 Collection.

First of all, if you have special event or formal event, one of Abi’s hand painted long dresses is a must have. I loved the grace of the fabric and the cut that will look lovely on most all silhouettes.

I also love this long simple elegant dress and could easily find myself going to this look again and again for special events throughout the warmer season.

The rompers are cute and another must have…order now so you’ll have it for your beach get away early this year and oh my goodness, I love Abi’s bathing suits. Completely inspired with the fringe. Fun. I would style it on the simple side.

A standard in any gals wardrobe should be Abi’s five way dress that can be worn, well multiple ways. I love it off the shoulder with a legging and over the knee boots for now and with a open toe platform bootie as the weather warms…eventually.

Check out how cool Abi is with this video and head on down to The Finerie in Seattle this weekend to meet her. A reminder for help with any of your wardrobe needs contact us at les Egoistes. See you on Friday. RL

Men’s Plaid | Make it Count

Posted on October 17, 2009 by yougogirl

Here’s the deal boys. I wrote this article about plaid that is pretty Seattle – centric. I am sure all of it can be sent to you. However, check in with Tommy & Roy at Alter for Men, they have some great plaid alternations as does Opening Ceremony in Soho/Nolita. There, be prepared spend a pretty penny. Fabulous store. They have a ton of the new and improved Woolrich styles. RL

Call us if you want help sourcing or finding the right thing to hit the right trend.

Rebecca Luke Style

…an ongoing commentary on fashion and lifestyle

Category Archives: Fav Finds