CALIFORNIA STATE POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY, POMONA

Fashion Society Newsletter

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

This issue has a special thanks to Red Bull, the Farm Store at Kellogg Ranch and ASI for making
donations to Runway Revolution and Fashion Society.
 VOL 1 ISSUE 3
MARCH 2011

Letter from the Editor: Contact Fashion Society for story ideas
Dear Readers, and coverage of fashion exhibits, runway
shows and more!
This issue is filled with many fashion finds: trends, fashion icons, designers, and fashion
show recaps that will blow you away! The Fashion Society team worked endless hours to
put on our first annual, Runway Revolution, which featured a fashion show, industry mixer
Email: fashion.society@hotmail.com
and pop-up boutique. We had over 300 people attend and it was a great night filled with
innovative designs, amazing music, and lots of fashionistas and fashionistos. Website:
http://thefashionsocietycpp.blogspot.com/
Fashion Society also got its first invites to LA Fashion Week to cover Project Ethos’ Carpe
Diem fashion event and Costella & Donola’s fashion show. Not only has this year been Twitter: FashionAtCPP
groundbreaking, but Fashion Society has created a solid brand image and identity in the Facebook: Fashion Society
fashion realm.

Thank you to Alejandra Parise, all the F.S. officers, volunteers, models, designers, families,
sponsors, and attendees for making Fashion Society’s event such a huge success!

Sincerely,

Mai Vang
President, Producer & Chief Editor

Cultivate Your Fashion Interests by Joining!

♀ Join Fashion Society Today! ♪ Art ♥ Photography ♫ Film ♂ Design  Social Media  Writing  Fashion  Music

TENTATIVE SPRING QUARTER CALENDAR

Table of Contents
Saturday, April 2nd- Silent Auction Pizza and Wine in
Venice 6-9pm *Purchase tickets online from Upper Class
Label $10.00
Tuesday, April 5- First meeting of quarter: Membership Runway Revolution ………………………. 3-11
fees, calendar, and newsletter. Distribute information
about officer positions. Project Ethos: Carpe Diem………………… 12-20
Thursday, April 7- Movie of fashion show, distribute &
sell fashion show DVD. Location TBD. Trends: Spring/Summer 2011…………….. 21-23
Tuesday, April 12th- Maria: Jewelry Workshop &
Nominations for officer positions Joie de Vivre! ……………………………… 24-25
Tuesday, April 19th- Alumni Guest Speaker Sara
Friday, April 22nd- FIDM Art of Motion Picture Costume Journey to Minimalist Forest……………… 25-26
Design Exhibition at FIDM’s Museum & Galleries
Tuesday, April 26th- Nominations & Candidate Speeches.
Tuesday, May 3rd- Elections and Vote
Tuesday, May 10th- Parise: Tea dying workshop
Tuesday, May 17th –Daniel Marrone Make-up Workshop
Friday, May 20th- Moca: Rodarte-States of Matter
Tuesday, May 24th- Last meeting of the quarter.
Saturday, May 28th- AMM Banquet and Fashion Society
awards ceremony.

2
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Fashion society’s First annual runway revolution

By: Mai Vang

Cal Poly Pomona’s Fashion Society has been high on the radar with the launch of their website, e-
newsletter, and recent fashion rendezvous, Runway Revolution this past year. Fashion Society is in its
second year as a non-profit organizational club at Cal Poly and already the club has managed to double its
membership, network with rising fashion icons: Chriselle Lim and Daniel Marrone, inform their members
of the latest fashions on the runway each season, as well as covering the gaps between education and the
coveted fashion industry.

Runway Revolution occurred on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at Cal Poly Pomona’s Bronco Student Center in
Ursa Major. The venue was very institutional, but with the help of a few tablecloths, portable projector
screen, a handful of lights, a runway and music to set the tone- the venue were transformed into an
intoxicating and fabulous location fit for a fashion event. The night started off with an industry mixer and
boutique pop-up which accumulated such exhibitors as Upper Class Label, Bldg 45 Boutique, Large and
In Charge, Tukatech, AIMS, Rebel Candy Designs, Lola Paige, Melrose East, Lunzia, Lil’ Lou Lou,
Savvy Lee, LivJewels, Red Bull, Susa Boutique, the Apparel Merchandising and Management
department, Rey Swimwear, and Gorditas Y Que! Accessories. This was a great opportunity for students
and attendees to not only shop, but mingle and network with industry professionals for internships and job
opportunities.

Photos by Shelby Johns.Top left to right: Gorditas Y Que! Accessories and Lil’ Lou Lou.
Bottom left to right: Tukatech representatives and Lily Duenas, Patty Mutz, and Linda Tucker.

3
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Photos by Shelby Johns. Left to right: Upper Class Label and Rey Swimwear

The fashion show was hosted by Fashion Society’s club advisor, Alejandra Parise, who is also a lecturer
in the Apparel Merchandising and Management department at Cal Poly Pomona and a lecturer at Mount
San Antonio College. The fashion show featured eleven local and upcoming apparel and accessories
designers: Maria Bougioukos, Livie Mota, Jessica Rey, Los Angeles Raw Water, Savannah Crawford,
Lola Paige, Nicole Ghiglieri, Ashley Taddei, Pabai Vang, Lindsay Hannan, and Basil Malicsi.

Maria Bougioukos is a Cal Poly Pomona

student majoring in Landscape Architecture and
is the founder of Rebel Candy Designs. Maria’s
jewelry and accessories line was custom made to
complement the apparel designers’ showcasing
in the fashion show. The collection that Maria
showed was an eclectic mix of designs that had
unique materials, such as newspaper, plastic,
glass beads, cardboard, lace, and ribbons.

Maria’s Website: www.rebelcandydesigns.com

4
 MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Livie Mota is an accessories designer that

also debuted in the fashion show during Runway
Revolution. Livie is the founder of LivJewels,
which provides custom-made accessories and
jewelry for the everyday woman. Livie’s
designs range from very basic and traditional to
trendy and high fashion designs. For the
collection shown at Runway Revolution, Livie
pre-made designs that were hand-picked and
styled for Lola Paige.

Livie’s Website: www.livjewels.com

Rey Swimwear
Jessica Rey is the designer of Rey Swimwear and is a “television actress best known for her role as the white
power ranger on Power Rangers Wild Force. Some of the shows she’s guest starred on include Las Vegas, Rules
of Engagement, and General Hospital. Rey Swimwear debuted in Fashion Society’s Runway Revolution as a
hip and 1950’s inspired collection that the designer quotes, “is inspired by Audrey Hepburn-a woman whose
classic style has transcended time and continues to influence fashion today”. Jessica’s collection consisted of
one and two piece bathing suits with solids, polka dot, cherry, and paisley prints in figure-flattering designs.
The color palette for Jessica’s collection included yellow, white, black, teal, yellow, red, and navy. The swim
suits were styled with an assortment of bracelets, necklaces, sunglasses, neutral-colored wedges, a floppy sunhat
or floral tote. The two-piece swim suits featured sweetheart neck lines, knot detailing in the bodice, halter tops,
boy shorts, and hipster bottoms.
Rey Swimwear Website: http://reyswimear.3dcartstores.com/

Models (left to right): Lisa Bell, Tokkie Adeniji with Jessica Rey & Susanna Beliakoff
Photos by Tony Espinas & June Nicole Photography

5
 VOL 1 ISSUE 3
MARCH 2011

Los Angeles Raw Water

Los Angeles Raw Water is a lifestyle apparel line that was founded to express unspoken “interests, visions, and
political views that were lacking in the world of fashion”. The collection showcases styles and designs that
could easily be worn casually during the day and dressed up to go out at night. The collection consisted of
uniquely screen printed t-shirts, tanks, hoodies, and embroidered cardigans that were styled with dark-wash
jeans and everyday tennis shoes like Converse, Toms, and Pumas. Raw Water’s color palette consisted mainly
of black, gray, white, and red, which created a strong statement in its apparel and proved to be very versatile.
L.A. Raw Water’s Website: www.rawwater.net

Models (left to right): Jamie Kidd, Luis Carmona, Natalia Jenkins, and Michael Balotta

Savvy Lee
Savannah Crawford is a Cal Poly Pomona student majoring in Apparel Merchandising and Management and she
has been sewing since she was 14 years old. Her collection “was inspired by getting back to basics. The pieces
are inspired by t-shirts and their comfort”. The collection was made by using ordinary t-shirts and transforming
it into something chic, trendy, and sexy. The opening look was a t-shirt with a cut-off neckline and leggings;
this look was styled with a headpiece and necklace by Rebel Candy Designs. Another style seen on the runway
was a purple one-shouldered dress with a braided waist tie that was paired with pink printed tights and a
bandeau bra; this style was also accessorized with a necklace by Rebel Candy Designs. Other styles included a
pink tube top paired with a blue bubble skirt, green halter top dress, and a printed pink baby doll top with green
lounge shorts. The last look that was shown for Savvy Lee was a multi-colored dress with a keyhole detail
below the bust and above the navel.

Models: (left to right) Lauren Rosas, Tokkie Adeniji, Briana Hoyos, and Maria Gardner
6
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Lola Paige
Lola Paige is a signature brand that was established by five designers and alumni from the Fashion Institute of
Design and Merchandise: Thien Crisanto, Laura Diaz, Marjorie Portillo, Kimchi Ngo, and Jessica O’hara. The
theme for Lola Paige’s dress collection is “Beachy Vintage” and is unique for its ability to be worn form the
beachside to a night out on the town. The first look down the runway was a mini-dress with a beige, salmon,
and speckles of blue floral print; this look was styled with nude heels and a floppy sunhat. The next look down
the runway was a striped tank paired with a tiered floral print skirt; this look was styled with a tan belt, gold
bracelet, and wedges. Next up was an off white strapless dress with ruffle detailing across the top of the bodice
and at the hem, this dress was styled with a thin tan belt which accentuated the waist and completed the look for
a day at the beach. The next look on the runway was a beige and floral long button-down shirt that could easily
be used as a beach cover-up; this look was styled with a pearl necklace and flower in the model’s hair. Also
seen on the runway for Lola Paige was dresses one in off white with an empire waist and ruffle detailing in the
bodice, another was a vintage floral strapless dress with gathering at the waist that is styled with a simple
pendant necklace and calf-length boots. The color palette for Lola Paige’s collection included shades of white,
blue, yellow, and blue. The designers used a variety of prints such as paisley ad floral to create their beachy-
vintage inspired collection.
Website: www.facebook.com/lolapaigeclothing

Models (left to right): Susanna Beliakoff, designers Laura Diaz and Thien Crisanto with model Courtney Alberi,
& Renee Roberts

NG Fashion Design
Nicole Ghiglieri is a sophomore at Cal Poly Pomona majoring in Apparel Merchandising and Management.
Nicole has been sewing since the seventh grade and she is from the Bay are so a lot of her work is influenced by
the free-spirited lifestyle and pairing city elements with natural characteristics. Nicole’s collection titled,
Northern Lights, is influenced by natural elements and represents her desire to find peace in the high paced
world of fashion. The color palette for Nicole’s collection includes shades of brown, black, white, orange,
white, metallic silver and lime green. Nicole’s collection included an assortment of uniquely designed gowns,
dresses, outerwear jackets and coats, wraps, blouses, handbags, and trousers. From faux fur to wool, leather,
cotton, and lace the collection definitely showed a sweet, subtle combination paired with natural, rugged and
edgy elements. Prints that were seen on the runway for Nicole included stripes, cheetah print, abstract, and plaid.
Styles that Nicole debuted on the runway included a maxi-skirt with a cropped top, lace striped skirt paired with
a neutral blouse, leather jacket with a black fringe dress, striped skirt with a shawl-like shrug, princess dress in a
shiny mauve and lime green, fitted trousers with pleat detailing, and a one-shouldered dress with floral detailing
on the shoulder strap.
7
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

NG Fashion DesignWebsite: http://nicoleghiglierifashion.tumblr.com/

Models (left to right): Denise Salceda, designer Nicole Ghiglieri with model Mary Nordine, Viviana Hoyos, and
Kelly Martin
Photographs by Shelby Johns and June Nicole Photography

Ashley Taddei
Ashley Taddei describes her collection as “bold, yet silent, romantic yet ideal, edgy yet practical” and was
created by “mixing elements of contemporary design of transparency, layers and repetition patterns with the
romanticism of textured fabric, lace, and soft colors”. The color palette for Ashley’s collection included rich
black, white, and gold. Fabrics that were commonly seen throughout Ashley’s collection included eyelet and
lace in both black and white. Styles that Ashley showcased on the runway included a black transparent maxi-
skirt, lace bolero, cropped sleeveless raglan top, lace leggings, a three-quarter lace dress in off white with a
scoop neckline, high-waisted lace shorts, and a metallic gold scoop neck blouse.

Models (Left to right): Linda Higgins, Lauren Rosas, designer Ashley Taddei with Linda Higgins
Photos by Shelby Johns.

8
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Pabai Vang
Pabai Vang is a student at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and her collection was inspired by
the 2012 Apocalypse. Her designs are influenced by the colors seen in nature and throughout her collection she
“wanted to contrast the silhouettes of soft and strong to create a disastrous appeal, such as using a medium
weight wool fabric in combination with a soft netting fabric”. Pieces from Pabai’s collection include two high-
fashion magazine-fabricated corsets paired with fitted skinny jeans, a strapless dress, a one-shouldered
structured dress with tulle spanning out on the side, and a princess dress with puff sleeves in brown. Other
styles include a sweetheart neckline, strapless dress with drape detailing at the waist and a one-shouldered dress
with a transparent, abstract print in black and teal. The last look for Pabai was a beautiful, black, couture, ruffle-
tiered dress with a plunging neckline. The color palette for Pabai’s collection included shades of black, white,
bronze, orange, brown, and teal.

Models: Julia Straszewski, designer Pabai Vang with model Alexis Goebel, Courtney Alberi

Lunzia
Lindsay Hannan is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology and has over eight years of designing under
her belt. Lindsay Hannan’s collection, Lunzia, is “inspired by freedom, love of life, and the revolution of
women becoming strong individuals of the 1920’s and 1930’s. The look of the line consists of fine silks, beaded
fabrics, beautiful jerseys, knits, and lace with crystal and feather accents”. The color palettes for Lindsay’s line
include teal, peach pink, black, white, brown and gray. The line is versatile, in which there are apparel pieces
that can be worn several ways, such as a shawl that turns in to a hood and the line is eco-friendly with natural
dyes. The first look of the night for Lindsay was a v-neck beaded blouse that was paired with a peach flared
skirt. Other styles for Lindsay include wide-leg trousers with a teal ribbon waistline paired with a neutral
printed camisole and black, versatile shrug turned shawl, a black dress with transparent stripes, a one shouldered
black dress with gold detailing on the strap, and neckline-embellished cocktail dress paired with black stockings
and a clutch. Lindsay also showed a silk printed dress with a shawl neckline made of wool and cinched at the
waist with a ribbon tie. Lindsay also showcased gray Harlem pants with a keyhole knit top and peach-colored
shawl that turns into a hood, a blouse with batwings was paired with a maxi-skirt in peach, and the final look of
the night was a spaghetti strap silk dress with a beautiful train with beaded lace and trim.

9
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Lindsay Hannan’sWebsite: http://www.lindsayelisa.com/

Models (left to right): Savannah Crawford, Audrey Wang, and Danee Berumen

Models: Briana Ho & Cristina Mendoza

Photos by Mike Hari

10
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Basil Malicsi
Basil Malicsi is a senior at California State University of Long Beach majoring in Fashion Design and
Merchandising. The theme of Basil’s collection “is all about exotic, bold, vibrant colors combines with prints
and flowy silhouettes- Resort Island girl style!” Basil states that “the inspiration is taken from all my trips to
Thailand, Indonesia, and around the Philippines. I’m inspired by the colors, and prints of ethnic art and I try to
apply them in soft organic silk fabrics that I source out from my travels”. The color palette that Basil used for
his collection includes abstract prints with splashes of green, blue, pink, and yellow. Basil’s collection included
dresses, blouses, trousers, and gowns that were sure to catch anyone’s attention with its sparkle, ethnic prints
and glamorous styling. Styles that were seen on the runway included metallic gold, wide-leg trousers paired
with an abstract printed blouse, and a one-shouldered cocktail dress in metallic pink with a flared sleeve. Also
seen on the runway were a yellow and green ethnic print dress with a beautiful train and sweetheart neckline and
a one-shouldered teal dress with a light weight train that flowed down the runway. Basil closed the show with a
beautiful yellow gown with a plunging v-neckline, train, and excess fabric flowing from the top of the shoulders
down the back of the dress. The collection was sensual, sexy, and sophisticated.
Website: http://www.atelierbasil.com/

Models (left to right): Lisa Bell, Kelly Martin, and Julia Straszewski

The entire event was sponsored by Tukatech, a renowned world leading patternmaking and design software
company specializing in computer aided designs. Fashion Society also partnered up with the Cao Institute, a
Paul Mitchell partner school in Alhambra, to do hair and make-up for the fashion show. Free giveaway for VIP
guests included a Tukatech tote bag, designer index, coupon to the Farm Store, Red Bull energy shot, water
bottle, Fashion Society brochure, and CPP merchandise from ASI Beat. From the venue to music and
culminating fashion show, the event was a huge success that brought in almost 400 people in attendance,
bringing together families, friends, students, and fashion industry professionals into one location to rejoice in
our love of fashion.
Special Thanks to:

11
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

L.A. Fashion Week with Project Ethos

By: Mai Vang

Project Ethos’s fashion event, Carpe Diem, on March 12th was a night full of free Vitamin Water Zero, music,
art, and of course, fashion. Fashion Society officers attended the event and were intrigued by the fine details
and impeccable designs.

The evening opened up with the VIP lounge which was sponsored by Absolut Vodka and Tasty Cups supplied
delicious cupcakes for buyers, the media, and attendees. The cupcakes were all hand-made with organic
ingredients and flavors ranged from. The meet and greet lasted an hour, then the crowd started to mix and
mingle between the runway seating and upstairs to where the art exhibits were displayed. Amongst the many
artists who debuted their works of art at Carpe Diem included Lucia Loiso Photography, Gary Lockwood for
“Freehand Profit”, Christopher Hernandez Photography, and Justine Serebrin. While at the event, I was able to
interview Justine Serebrin about her collection of the senses and she says that the collection was inspired by
“passion, playfulness and childhood”. Justine has been working on this collection for two years and was proud
to display her works of art during LA’s Fashion Week as a part of Project Ethos’ Carpe Diem. Justine’s favorite
piece is titled “I’m the best dancer I know” and is a mixed media which is a combination of watercolor, acrylic,
collage, India ink, chalk pastel, and body paint on dura-lar to create this masterpiece. Justine quotes that this
piece “should be as magical and colorful as we make it”. Justine’s work of arts can be viewed and purchased at
her website: www.justineserebrin.com.

Artist: Justine Serebrin Artist: Lucia Loiso

Photo by: Mai Vang Photo by: Mai Vang

After visiting the artist realm, my assistant and I moved to the fashion show, where amongst ten to fifteen other
media and press coverage, we had to literally stand our ground to get a “good position” at the end of the runway.
Not only that, but the fashion show was delayed and guests were left to awkwardly mingle amongst themselves.
This however, gave plenty of time for photographers alongside me to get plenty of shots of the Vitamin bottles
glowing at the end of the runway and capture, or I should say take in the beautiful venue; where intricately
12
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

sculptured pillars opened up the runway and the combination of spot lighting, accent lighting, and upbeat music
created a colorful atmosphere that coincided with the overall theme of the show, “Carpe Diem” or “Seize the
day!”.

The fashion show opened with musical artist, The Robotanists, an upcoming indie band that sang songs from
their third album, Plans in Progress. The band was alive with enthusiasm, soul, and a musical ensemble that
took the audience away with its energy, distinct sounds, and captivating tunes. After the Robotanists left the
runway, there was the Vitamin Water’s Flavor Fashionista Challenge where five of the seven showcasing
designers competed for a $3,000 prize of a either a sewing station or new laptop. The five designers were given
the task of designing an outfit that represented one of the Vitamin Water flavors and the audience texted in votes
to decide the winner of the challenge.

Designers: Dominique Ansari (yellow), Reneta J (white/red), Age of Aquarius (brown)

13
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Designers: Ermelinda Manos (pink), Melissa Velia (red)

Fredericks of Hollywood
After the introduction of the Vitamin Water Fashionista Challenge, the lights dimmed down and the runway was
lit as the music started pumping and Fredericks of Hollywood showcased their first ever, swim wear collection.
The models strutted down the catwalk with red and white striped beach balls that were tossed into the audience
for a chance to win a free pair of swimwear at the end of the show. From sexy solids, to animal prints, and
glitter, the entire collection was breath-taking. Fredericks of Hollywood definitely created a whole new
definition for sexy and showed style with a lot of flair with its itty bitty swimsuits.

Cardiwrap
Cardiwrap by Kymaro is a multi-styled wrap sure to dress up or dress down any ordinary outfit. With over 50
ways to wear the wrap, it is equipped with its own set of brooches, bows, bangles, and clasps to effectively
enhance any outfit. The Cardiwrap can be worn as a tunic, halter, and shawl, off the shoulder, v-neck, cardigan,
scoop neck, shrug, hoodie, one-shouldered, cowl neck, choker, or worn as a scarf. As the models strutted down
the catwalk, they quickly slipped out a brooch, clasp, bow or bangle loose to show the versatility of the
Cardiwrap and its ability to be styled a multitude of ways.

14
 VOL 1 ISSUE 3
MARCH 2011

Melissa Velia

Next down the catwalk was Melissa Velia’s collection, it opened with a dark and distraught prima-ballerina who
pirouetted, turned, and sautered down the runway. The collection included basics with a trendy twist such as a
bateau neckline, silk top with contrasting black hemmed sleeves paired with a pencil shirt, another look that was
shown was a reddish purple blouse with bow detailing at the base of the neck that was styled with a pencil skirt.
Another example of Melissa’s fine tailoring and styling shone in another look which dressed up an ordinary
black camisole with a prime-rose print in black and white, styled with layers of pearls and a silver belt to
accentuate the waist. The color palette of Melissa’s collection included whites, blacks, and shades of purple
which screamed glamour, sophistication, and casual elegance. Melissa’s design for the Flavor Fashionista
Challenge was a floor-length strapless yellow dress with shirring on the sides and a vintage print with gold
threading was used for the bodice.

15
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Reneta J

Reneta J’s collection was upbeat, trendy, and full of attitude, not just in the clothing, but its full effect was felt
with the models’ hair and make-up which was styled by Carlton Hair Salon. The elements of Reneta’s
collection that made it sexy and trendy were its impeccable color palette of red, pink, white and black. From
tailored blazers and cardigans to, figure-flattering dresses that were easily styled with leggings, fishnets, or
tights made the collection both fashionable and functional. For the Flavor Fashionista Challenge, Reneta
designed a red and white full-length asymmetrical dress with a unique waist tie that also functioned at the one-
shouldered dress strap. The white gown with the red tie-dye affect at the bottom of the hem created visual
interest and was beautifully executed.

16
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Age of the Aquarius

The Age of Aquarius collection by designer Kristi Moon is not only hip and comfortable, but the brand is eco-
friendly. According to the Age of Aquarius website, all the designs are “cut from sustainable, recycled and
organic textiles, dipped in rich, yet classic hues of low impact dyes…Manufactured in the city of Angles, in
support of the U.S. economy and garment industry, there’s no child slave laboring overseas”. The materials and
fabrication of the collection makes it distinct with such fabrics as bamboo velour in the jumpsuits, a mix of
cotton and bamboo spun into fleece for the Marsha three quarter trench coat with the matching tie belt and the
Marian shirred bib neckline with puffed sleeves and extended rib cutoff in black which is made with 100%
micro bamboo jersey. For the design challenge, Kristi designed a cotton and bamboo French terry riding hood
jacket with a shawl collar, patch pockets, and long sleeves with ribbed cuffs and a princess seam in the
gingerbread color.

Dominique Ansari

Dominique Ansari’s collection was very trendy and fun with its different mix of colors such as black, cream,
navy, aqua, gray, red, and burgundy. From cropped and fitted shrugs and cardigans to party dresses and full-
length gowns, the designs had great tailoring and fine draping. First down the runway was the gray Pixie dress,
a one-shouldered asymmetrical mini-dress with draping detailing in the skirt and strap. Also seen on the runway
was a modern take on a one-piece jumpsuit with spaghetti tie straps and knee-length trousers in an aqua color.
Another look was a strapless empire waist dress styled with a shrug also in aqua which created a long and lean
silhouette. Lastly, the Flavor Fashionista Challenge dress that Dominique designed was a ruby red strapless
dress with too much detailing in the bodice and waist, which created the illusion of a girdle with a train flowing
underneath.

17
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Ermelinda Manos

Ermelinda Manos’ collection followed Age of Aquarius and her collection took fashion to a whole new level
with figure-hugging designs, animal prints, and sexy silhouettes. The color palette for Ermelinda’s collection
included royal blue, yellow, pink, and black. The distinct materials and fabrics that Ermelinda used included
fringe, cheetah animal print, lace, leather, and silk. The dresses had deep plunging v-necks and ranged from
full-length to mid-thigh length dresses that revealed too much, not just the wearer’s legs, but the plunging
necklines barely covered the bust! Despite its fine tailoring and impeccable designs, Ermelinda’s line came
short of success when she hiked up the hemlines and plunged the necklines too far which made the collection
not versatile at all. On the other hand, the dress that Ermelinda designed for the Flavor Fashionista Challenge
had to be one of my favorite designs because of its femininity and girly feel with the use of lace and the tiered
skirt that flounced from a sweetheart neckline in pink.

18
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Seth Aaron Henderson

Seth Aaron Henderson’s collection was the last collection of the night and the audience waited eagerly to see
what new styles and trends he would be introducing. Seth’s collection included a mix of solids in red, black,
purple and white, with the use of a distinguished houndstooth pattern and unique shoes by
MsWoodBoutique.com. Such styles that were seen on the runway included Seth’s white and black cotton
houndstooth dress, gray wool coat, white twill tuxedo jacket with lambskin lapels, black quilted and wool dress,
purple wool day dress, and red wool pencil dress.

At the end of the fashion show, DJ Yolanda Be Cool took the night away by spinning his intrinsic mixes and
world-popular single, “We speak no Americano”.

The event was sponsored by Vitamin Water Zero, Carlton Hair, Cardiwrap, Absolut, Tasty Cups, and Fredericks
of Hollywood. It was a great night to mix, mingle, and rejoice in the beauty of fashion.

19
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Overall, Project Ethos is one of few fashion productions who have opened their fashion events to the public and
it has not only been successful in reaching all facets of the fashion industry, but the company has really created a
name for itself. With its broad spectrum of music, art, and fashion, Project Ethos is talent incubator for many
aspiring artists, designers, and musicians. Carpe Diem was a great event to attend; the Project Ethos team pulled
together a great venue, atmosphere, and showcased outstanding designers. The event left any attendee inspired
and anticipating the upcoming Fall/Winter season designs.

Left to right: Lisa Bell, Art Delgadillo, Mai Vang, Nadine Samarin, Jennifer Mapote, Emma Loekmono

20
 VOL 1 ISSUE 3
MARCH 2011

Fashion Trends
Spring/Summer 2011

By: Nadine Samarin

Hurray! It’s that time again to shed those sweaters and wool coats and bare those arms and legs! We have some
really fun and different trends forecasted for the spring. So sit back, relax and soak up some of those
wonderfully warm rays of sunshine while looking fashionable.

Some key looks for the spring are 70’s chic, biker, punk fashion and 60’s ladylike.

Move aside military look and welcome the biker girl. This is all about buckles, silver-colored material, and
zippers.

21
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

You can’t go wrong with punk fashion. Wear

zippers, safety pins, heavy boots, and studs. If
you have any unwanted clothing, just cut it up;
add safety pins and you have a whole new punk
outfit.

Take a trip back into the 60’s with these outfits.

Below the knee, full, circle skirts are the new
miniskirt. Cinch the waist with a wide belt and
wear sexy, kitten heels and you have a
fashionable 60’s outfit. Other styles include, full
skirted dresses, the straight-dress silhouette, and
cat eyeglasses.

The 70’s chic has always been in and out of

fashion and there have been many variations of
styles. This time it’s more focused on 70’s
sophistication. This includes high-waisted pants
with a belt and tucked in flowy shirts with a vest
over it. Think clean lines, flowy, yet controlled
looks. At night feel free to show a little more
skin and go for a tighter fit, or sexy draping. It’s
all about looking chic, sophisticated, and sexy
with a 70’s vibe.

22
 MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

There are some new fabric patterns that are

making a big hit. Some of these trends include
lace, crochet and macramé, tassels, sheer maxi
dresses, and stripes.

Some key items in the trends this season are

bell-bottoms, wide-leg pants, Capri pants, tail
hems, jumpsuits, and crop tops.

Men’s spring/summer fashions have had a makeover too. Move over skinny jeans and welcome flared jeans!
Don’t worry, skinny jeans will still be in stores, but the 70’s vibe has influenced men’s clothing as well as
women’s. The motorcycle fashions hit men’s clothing as well. The leather biker jacket is a must have for this
upcoming season.

Trend Source: http://www.fashionising.com/trends/b--spring-2011-fashion-trends-spring-summer-2011-

4073.html#spring2011looks

23
 MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Joie de vivre!
By: Art Delgadillo

I vividly remember the allure I felt when coming across Isabella Blow, “Issy”, on several of my late night
fashion researches. I was a teenager desperately seeking clarity and fashion brought that, albeit, I knew nothing!
Not how the industry worked, who was who or even what role I wanted to play in it. The things I did know was
that mystery, magic, and beauty was uniquely exemplified in this particular individual, Issy. Her ensembles
were otherworldly, often combining unconventional elements, a skill that only an aesthetic connoisseur could
master! She made me dream of a utopian-like life where the struggles of realities were replaced with fabulous
clothes and intoxicating designs. However, I recognized a free spirit in myself and in the designs that Issy
concocted, which I believe is an essential characteristic that allows individuals to express themselves. Issy was
coveted as one of fashion’s eccentrics and international style icons of all time and she brings joy and smiles with
her joie de vivre attitude.

Issy’s early years were filled with emotional and

psychological dysfunction. Her only brother
drowned in the family’s pool at age two, her
parents separated and later divorced, and then her
mother erased herself out of the picture after the
divorce. Issy’s relationship with her father was
poor and probably a factor that she never
recovered from which could have led up to her
death. However, one can only speculate.

Issy injected herself in the fashion world by

working for Guy Laroche in Texas. She married
her first husband Nicholas Taylor, who introduced
her to Anna Wintour. Then Issy was hired as
Anna’s assistant and then she wounded up
working for Andre Leon Talley. She later returned
to London and worked as an editor for the English
magazine Tatler, which focused on the lifestyle
and glamorous lives of the elite.

Issy is notorious for discovering and cultivating memorable talents and is credited for discovering Stella
Tennant, Sophie Dahl, Phillip Treacy, Alexander McQueen, and Hussein Chalayan. Of these discoveries, both
Mr. Treacy and McQueen are the most notable. It was reported that Issy fell in love with McQueen and
purchased his entire graduate collection. The bond between the three was highly palpable. Mr. Treacy made Issy
his muse and McQueen’s Spring 2008 prêt-a-porter collection was collaboration between McQueen and Treacy
in memory of Issy. She was more than just their mentor; she pushed them creatively, cultivated their talent, and
most importantly, she promoted their designs by gallavating in their innovated designs. After all, Issy’s
quintessential outfit did include a chic dress with her showcasing of intricate hats!

24
 MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Although much satisfaction can be gained from having discovered several top models and influential designers,
Issy’s personal life spiraled downward. In the early 2000’s she revealed in an interview that she was ill and
needed medication to calm her down. She spoke ambiguously then but it was later revealed that she did in fact
suffer from depression. Her depression is believed to have catapulted for an array of reasons. First, she felt she
did not have a home in the industry that she influenced. Second, when the Gucci group bought out the McQueen
brand she received a dress while everyone else acquired contracts. Third, she was infertile. Fourth, she was
diagnosed with bipolar disorder and received Electro Shock Therapy (EST), and was later diagnosed with
Ovarian Cancer. Clearly, life circumstances were getting the best of her.

In 2006 she revealed to her close friends that she had become suicidal.
Her methods of suicide included: overdose of sleeping pills, jumping
from a bridge resulting in broken ankles, car accidents, horse
tranquilizers, and by drowning in a lake while overdosed.
Isabella Blow was finally successful at suicide in the middle of 2007; she
excused herself from a weekend party to go “shopping” and was later
discovered dead by her sister. It was reported she drank a weed killer and
died soon after. Her funeral was held in Gloucester Cathedral on May 15,
2007 with a memorial in London where Anna Wintour spoke at her
service.

It is interesting to see intriguing individuals in the fashion world and other

industries for that matter that bring great inspiration and talent to the
table, then vanish and end their fantasies prematurely. Early 2010 was
also the year that Issy’s long time friend, Alexander “Lee” McQueen
committed suicide. It is also speculated that Lee suffered a form of
depression. Perhaps a lesson learned from these two victims is to help a
friend out if anything seems symptomatic of an imbalance.

“a journey into the MiniMalistic Forest”

By: Art Delgadillo

Minimalism, fragility, and delicacy are not words typical of L.A. Fashion Week collections, yet IDNYC
Spring/Summer 2011 by Isabelle Donola captured just that! Isabelle Donola along with Luciana Ellington at
their prominently located boutique in West Hollywood off Melrose showcased IDNYC along with a behind the
scenes photo shoot where guests were able to witness a photographer snap models for editorials. Along with the
photo shoot, there was a fashion show and a shopping opportunity where 50% of the proceeds went to the Peace
Over Violence Organization. Peace over Violence is “a non-profit, feminist, multicultural, volunteer
organization dedicated to building healthy relationships, families and communities free from sexual, domestic
and interpersonal violence” (peaceoverviolence.org).
It was a wet and chilly Sunday evening as I made my way to West Hollywood. The invitation
announced 6pm as the starting time and at roughly 8:45pm the show finally began. I understand the need for
being “fashionably late” as some of us spend more thought and time on ensembles however a nearly 3-hour wait
was just ridiculous! I wonder how they would feel if they had to wait nearly 3 hours for a fashion show, the
boutique itself was well lit and suitably filled. Dark wood pallets that were mounted on the walls served as
display areas, there were tree elements used for display, and at the very back was a brown construction paper
project in which it was cut and held to give an unclear shirred look. Clothes hung from a metal bar suspended
from the ceiling with accent lighting throughout the space.

25
MARCH 2011 VOL 1 ISSUE 3

The collection itself consisted of 18 looks with a color palette dominated by neutrals: white linens, sheer blacks,
crisp browns, and an earthy flax; with splashes of apple green, silky teal, mint, wine reds, and chocolate browns.
There were body-conscious silhouettes, drapery details, bubble skirts, separates to pair with your own pieces,
and beautifully eclectic hats by Anita Hopkins. The make-up consisted of a clean face with a bold lip and eyelid
in tones of oranges and pinks. The hair was long, down, and texturized with volume, creating a haunting look.
Donola focused on line, albeit sometimes languid, and fabrics! Fabrics varied from crisp linens, rich silks, and
wools. Some fabrics were so sheer and luxurious that they looked very fragile and delicate. Hemlines ranged
from modest below the knee to mid-thigh.

The first look was a white stretchy fitted dress with a turtleneck whose length was modest at below the knee
paired with a flax Little Red Riding Hood pullover and nude heels. Clean, minimalistic and with a Little Red
Riding Hood reference it was wearable and chic! One standout piece was the fifth look: a flax form-fitting bias
cut dress (reminiscent of Mr. Galliano’s trademark) whose cut was just above the knee with a quaint ruffle on
the back beginning from the right shoulder down to the left hip, Lanvin much? Although feminine in silhouette
the fabrication was a much more masculine one and thus had a harder edge effect. The next look was a stunning
black sheer-chiffon shift dress. It was effortlessly crafted and delicate with the choice of chiffon. The dress,
paired with black pumps had a scoop neckline. The model wore nude undergarments and no accessories; but if
the consumer is not creative they may struggle translating the look to off the catwalk. Perhaps a black John
Patrick Organic slip-on will suffice? The soundtrack to the collection was a mix of an ambiance cinematic tunes
that slipped me into a state of trance and made the world of this woman all the more palpable.

On the other end, however, I questioned the wear ability and end use of some pieces. For instance, out came an
A-line dress, mid thigh hemline, ¾ sleeves, with a draped scarf neckline. The dress was flowy, easy, and giving.
The problem was the back. It gathered to create appeal, I suppose, however when I saw the models bum it
certainly did not feel finished and/or well thought out. And quite frankly it looked sloppy; adding insult to injury
it was also subtly sheer. Now judging from the other sheer pieces, clearly, this woman is bold, gutsy and in
shape, my problem was the exposed bum and lack of craftsmanship/end result quality on this particular piece.
Luckily, the Little Red Riding Hood motif continued throughout the pieces in the hoods, shapes, and overall feel
creating cohesion and consistency.

The collection felt fresh and clean. It reminded me of Mr. Costa’s ongoing minimalism aesthetic for Calvin
Klein. I must applaud their use of colored models. While shows all over the world continue to not include
colored models, Donola used at least 50% colored models! In addition, their choice of venue could not have
been any better. Their small and intimate boutique was the catwalk in which guests sat no more than 1-2 feet
distance from the models. As the models sashayed past me I could see the garments, the fabrics, and seams!
Although not common for shows to be this private, it took me back to the articles and stories I have read on
historical fashion shows held in couture houses where it was the same setting: very small, very up close, and
highly intimate.

Overall, IDNYC Spring/Summer 2011 by Isabelle Donola was sharp and clean. The pieces can be worn for
work or to an art installation exhibit. Little Red Riding Hood and minimalism were two dominant motifs.
Fabrics included crisp white linens, soft silks, sheer chiffons, and earthy wools. Their only real downfall was the
3-hour delay. There was a clear sense of the IDNYC woman. It was a cohesive collection that had options for a
modest woman but also for a daring younger woman. Earthy, minimalistic, sexy, and clean is what the IDNYC
woman was in this collection. I would wear anyone of these pieces out to dinner on a warm summer evening, if I
were a girl! Congratulations to a successful and exquisite collection, cheers!

Visit Costella & Donola’s Co-Op website to shop their new collections: http://www.costellaanddonola.com/

26