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

Ankar Sweden Fall 2012

Posted on February 15, 2012 by yougogirl

I love the up close and personal time I get with clothing designers. It’s definitely a “high” when I get in on conversations about the angle of the pocket or finish on a hem.

At a breakfast showing yesterday at the Empire Hotel Rooftop, I got just that with designer, Niklas Ankar, who is clearly a creative that understands who he is designing for. This statement provide by the PR folks for the line is a perfect description of the line.

“A ‘love letter’ to men’s fashion, featuring expertly tailored shirts and sleek trousers, colorful separates in the form of cashmere sweaters and tartan Morning coats, and a signature limited-°©edition smoking.”

With simply two styles of jackets in the collection. Both the classic style and Nehru style jackets have been designed with the modern man in mind. Available in several fabrics, including a heavier wool, the jackets can double as coats.

The Fall 2012 collection fabrics were all milled in Italy and I loved that Mr. Ankar has followed the bespoke tradition of matching fabrics (remember how I feel about that with plaid) and creating unique finishes on cuffs and hems. Even the belts shown were Ankar of Sweden and they were made out of upholstery fabric. I love it.

Trend wise, the mixing of color is still prevalent with pop color on the bottoms. For men, socks are still important as they will be seen. Ankar styled the collection with a fun mix of color socks against the color cords and pants. The collection for Fall 2012 is lovely.

I love the sleek and elegant look of the Ankar top coat that is the same silhouette of the Ankar Nehru jacket. Niklas endearingly mentioned the detail of the coat that has slant pockets instead. Much easier for a gentleman as he walks through the city on a brisk day.

Well, I found another Nordic brand to love and follow. Now boys, lets get some of these pieces on you. RL

Photo Credits | Leigh Vogel/Getty Images North America

Guli SP 2011 at Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week

Posted on September 10, 2010 by yougogirl

As I stepped out today on to Lincoln Center to meet my photographer, Webb Davis, I had a glorious feeling in my heart…even though I got off a stop early…It was early and the sun was shining and it was going to be my first show ever at Lincoln Center. Exciting.

The show was Guli and there is no doubt that I am drawn to international designers when I am at MBFW. The injection of ethnicity into modern clothing is compelling and exciting to me.

With the Guli Collection designed by the gorgeous and brilliant Uzbekistani Ambassador to Spain, Gulnara Karimova, it’s clear he pride of the designer of her culture and the traditional textiles and clothing practices that come from her country.

As I imagined myself wearing several of the pieces on some island getaway, I was mesmerized by several pieces.

Love the above for the sexy powerful look. A fan, of the slouchy & the skinny pant ~ yes, I can’t decide ~ I’m glad I don’t have to. The shawl with the corset bra top is especially lovely.

This gown is stunning. The sheer panels of mint, curry & pale yellow are gorgeous based with the nude. Love!

What can I say about the above except I would wear it in a heart beat. The sheer skirt bottom juxtaposed with the quilting above is genius.

The color story? Influenced by the Middle & Far East, there isn’t one. That was what I found especially beautiful. The IKAT’s were incredible. Each were produced by the GULI Creative team based on hand weaving techniques. Styled with nude one piece bathing suits and slouchy black flat boots with an IKAT detail, I felt the warmth on my skin.

Guli’s Menswear had an effortless air that most men I know could easily slip in to. All the accessories & jewelry were designed by Guli.

As if that wasn’t enough, the designer is a rock star and ultimate example of “Sustainable Style”. She chairs The Fund Forum, the biggest NGO in the country of Uzbekistan with offices in major fashion/art cities all over the world. Their mission is to preserve and aid in Uzbek culture presentations, aiding crafts dynasties and supporting talented children and youth from the country. Ms. Karimova is also involved with The Women’s Council, National Breast Cancer Association, Avicenna International Association of Traditional Medicine, the Mehr Nuri (Ray of Mercy) Charitable Foundation, and the Social Initiative Support Fund (SISF). As we say at SSF, a woman of “Style & Substance” tm. RL

photos: All photos are rights reserved by Rebecca Luke Style shot by Webb Davis.

Hipster Ford Fiesta – Who Knew?

Posted on July 16, 2010 by yougogirl

I often get calls to help put a “style stamp” for random awesome projects. The call I got last week from The Finerie ended up being for a really cool concept and where I think most marketing is headed for now.

Over the past couple of years, designers and retailers have been doing pop up shops all over the country and allowing for a “market” experience while saving and making precious dollars for all involved. The concept isn’t really new, a pop up shop, but what is new is who is doing it.

Who you ask is taking this concept and getting my attention? The Ford Company. To roll out their newly designed Fiesta, the old school American company that was founded in 1903, is working with local retailers to showcase their newest product.

Rolled out in Portland yesterday, the car company will share the space with a clothing retailer Local35 by day. At night, the so-called “pop-up” shop will host parties and a concert series put on by Spin Magazine. And, a lime green Fiesta will be front and center, parked in the store for visitors to take photos and explore. Two more cars will be cruising Portland, shuttling people between others stores partnering with Ford. (Oregonlive.com)

I had no idea, but The Fiesta was first introduced in 1976 and has been a go-to car in Europe. It has not been available in the States since 1980. Focusing on a young consumer demographic with the reintroduced car, it’s a subcompact that’s built for fuel efficiency and economy. In my opinion, it seems to be a sustainable choice as well. And, as a girl, it’s super cute and has a push button start…love that.

“The pop-up shop — and more will follow in other western cities — aims to introduce the car to those young consumers in a more authentic way,” said Jeff Guettler, president of Taow, the Portland-based marketing firm that developed the pop-up strategy — which they call a “cultural hub” — for Ford. “It’s all about the brand experience,” Guettler said. “(Ford) knew they had to create some kind of way to experience the car on their own terms.” (Oregonlive.com)

The Ford Fiesta pop up in Seattle should be seen in late August in the U-District. There are plans to have an accompanying coffee table book highlighting cool Seattle retailers such as The Finerie. The Ford Fiesta shuttle plans to be in full swing in the Emerald City as well. The concept is planned for San Francisco, Sacramento & San Jose.

The commerical for the Ford Fiesta caught my attention a couple months ago.

Fun and innovative, this is how we will see roll outs of new products for now. RL

For information on les Egoistes Creative Services contact us.

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

H & M making it easy to be sustainable & cute

Posted on April 14, 2010 by yougogirl

Hi there. I just posted about this on Sustainable Style. Check it out. 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.

Rebecca Luke at Eryn Brinie February 21, 2010

Posted on February 19, 2010 by yougogirl

In celebration of Spring, eryn brinie has asked our good friend and top stylist, Rebecca Luke to come share her style tips.

Bring your favorite item from you closet and let Rebecca instantly update your look mixing old with the new.

When it comes to wardrobing, less can be more. Rebecca Luke, CEO of les Egoistes, LLC (les Egoistes) and founder of Rebecca Luke Style (RLS) is an advocate of the old world approach to dressing where bespoke, custom and couture where a mainstay. For the 21st century, she interprets the classic concepts for the modern woman. Her focus on dressing highlights selecting distinct pieces and combining them with basics to expand a seemingly abbreviated wardrobe into a closet full of choices. Rebecca believes that getting dressed everyday can be easy and fun and has developed a guide to doing so.

Sunday, February 21 from 6 – 8 p.m.

Eryn Brinie Flagship Store | 501 Broadway, New York NY 10012
This is an RSVP only event | flagship@erynbrinie.com

Refreshments will be served.

For more information on Rebecca Luke Image Consulting Services go to: lesegoistes.com

My Heart in Seoul

Posted on November 23, 2009 by yougogirl

Okay, I do have a cheesy title, but it sounded good while I was in Seoul, so I just went with it. Seoul is a super city. The second largest city in the world, it has all that us urban lovers dig and more. I never thought I would ever have the opportunity to get there, but surprise to me; I was able to get there this month.
Asked to speak on behalf of Sustainable Style Foundation by the Korean Fashion Association at the 2nd Annual Global Fashion Forum focusing on “Green Fashion”, I was thrilled to share SSF’s perspective on sustainable lifestyle choices and why “Sustainable Fashion” is such an important conversation in our industry right now. It was an incredible experience.

To start, we stayed at the W – Walkerhill that we found to be out of the way, but worth it. It sits on top of a hill with stellar views and is the only W in Asia. The pool and amenities are fabulous and the lobby, well, is supposedly a club destination for the hip in Seoul. It felt a bit weird, because it was our lobby, but after a couple of days, we got used to relaxing and checking out the scene before heading home.

But as you know, I have to talk about the shopping in Seoul. Over the past couple of years, certain Korean brands have been getting my attention; Eryn Brinie, Sol and a few others. Korean style is right on target and a bit ahead of the western curve.

My Favorite Trends |

Sequins | Sequin everything is still hot and I found it everywhere and on all types of garments in Korea. I especially love sequin leggings & jackets. You can find these items locally in the Sates in most stores. In Seattle, The Finerie has a great sequin jacket option. I love this simple line of the Naeem Kahn Sequin Dress.

Square shoulders or Shoulder details | I am seeing a lot of this in current mags, but not quite on the streets or in the stores. Stand by…It is Sean Young in Blade Runner…but updated and fun.

Rivets & Studs| while it may seem exclusively rock and roll, I noticed it in a lot of Korean styles. On bags, on shoulders, on hats. I like it. I took a close up of a traditional royal guard costume and found it there. Cool to see how history always plays in clothing. I also just saw this kind of detail in the Holiday looks from Barney’s on a Givenchy Bag. nice.

Parkas| I love Parkas with the fleece details. My traveling companion and fellow quirky fashionista, Brenda, found a terrific one in Korea. This is a must have. You can do it super casual or find a dressier one. This one is a great find by Antik Batik.

My Favorite Stores/Brands |

Eryn Brinie | Lucky that the States host the Eryn Brinie flagship store in Manhattan on W Broadway. I have been shopping there for the past year and a half since they opened. CUTE. I stopped off at the Eryn Brinie store located in one of Seoul’s major departments stores, Shinsegae.

Tankus| Oh my. I heart Tankus. Fresh, edgy and made well, this Korean brand is available a few places here and there. Oak in NYC carries some pieces and online. Don’t worry. I am working on sourcing more places in the states. Their store in Seoul is also located in Shinsegae.

Codes Combine | This store is located in the Myeong-dong area and fab. I loved it more for men, but the gals have good picks as well.

A-LAND | No real site for this store, but hi, was our absolute favorite. The store carries mostly Korean brands for men and women except perhaps Cheap Monday and APC, which I did see. On the top floor, the surprise was all the vintage…with Value Village price tags! Located in the hip young Myeong-dong area, as well as, the high end Apgujeong neighborhood. This is a must stop for lovers of trend and fashion. I didn’t read about it…I just saw cool people walking out of it and decided we had to stop.

Stori| Beautiful hand crafted accessories. Can’t seem to find a site, but will follow up as I keep looking.

Obzee | by Kang Jin Young of Y & Kei. He and his wife, Hanni, also have Hanni and Hanni. And she, has her own brand Hanni Y. All incredible. Talent obviously runs in this family.

Neighborhood breakdown according to RLS |
Thank god for traveling companions and for local hosts. I was a bit nervy for my speech and the trip was so last minute, I had little time to research. With my companion’s notes, our lovely local connection, Boram ~ who by the way, works for the parent company of two of my favorite brands ~ and the handy “Wallpaper Guide to Seoul”, we hit and found all the right hoods.

Myeong-dong | Hipster shopping above the ground and underground shops with price performing cute fashion.
Apgujeong | The high-end area that also boasts a Rodeo St that parallels Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive.
Hong-dae | University Area and a place to go out clubbing. By the way, stores are open till 2 a.m. and the clubs till 5…so you can get an outfit to go out in!
Seongbuk-dong | Gilsangsa Temple is here as well as some exclusive interiors stores and. We were able to visit a traditional costume place, Hyojae.
Samchoeng-dong | Cute shopping area. A lot of stores have been featured in Vogue.
Namdaemoon | Traditional Market, it has so much from clothing to food. We found a great accessories market with wholesale prices!
Garosugil | Pretty people also flock to this neighborhood. Stores have the feel of Nolita in New York. Great traditional Korean Food and a famous “Chicken & Beer” stop.
Dondaemun | All night market! Really? Really? Three buildings, multiple floors…all clothes and shoes. We didn’t know, we thought it was food and chatkes…good thing we had limited cash and cards that night…

I don’t feel I have to say it, it may be quite obvious, but this won’t be my last trip to Seoul. I love the people, I love the food, I love the style both in the street and in the stores and finally, I love that my hope for global sustainability in my industry took me there. RL

Photo Credits | From the Top

DJ at the Woo Bar – W Seoul | RLS

Naeem Khan | Naeem Khan

Givenchy | Givenchy

Traditional Korean Royal Guard | RLS

Antik Batik | Revolve Clothing

RL at Eryn Brinie | RLS

Tankus | Tankus

Codes Combine Store | RLS

A-Land Store | RLS

Obzee Fall 09 | tFS

Namdaemoon | RLS

Rebecca Luke Style

…an ongoing commentary on fashion and lifestyle

Category Archives: Sustainable Choice