About That J. Crew Manolo Blahnik Collaboration

Hello-Hello, welcome to an almost weekend.

This is a busy year for Manolo Blahnik, the renowned designer is approaching his 40th anniversary creating super-chic footwear. There have been, and will continue to be, functions and promotional events in honor of the milestone.  Media profile pieces are also growing in number, The Times ran a wonderful story about the designer’s 40 years in the industry on Wednesday.

This is all happening as the spring 2012 collection debuts, below we show the Acantus shoe from that line.

Courtesy Photo

Some may have read about an upcoming collaboration between J. Crew and Manolo Blahnik, the shoes were first shown at Fashion Week earlier this month.

Steve Eichner/WWD

Here is more from Footwear News:

George Malkemus, president of Manolo Blahnik USA, told Footwear News the collaboration was months in the making and began when J.Crew President Jenna Lyons “fell in love” with Blahnik’s popular BB style.

Another pair via Women’s Wear Daily (subscription req’d.):

Steve Eichner/Women's Wear Daily

The designer often works with luxury lines, like Carolina Herrera or Milly by Michelle Smith. Below, one of the custom shoes Mr. Blahnik did for the Milly Fall 2012 runway show.

Milly by Michelle Smith Twitter Feed

Back to the WWD story:

“It’s a way of bringing high and low together,” explained Malkemus.

….this is the first time the brand has ventured outside the luxury realm.”

Though details are still being worked out, Malkemus said the shoes are expected to sell online and in select J.Crew stores under the Blahnik name, for $595 to $645. The actual release date has not yet been finalized.

Hmmmm…. since the shoes were seen at the J. Crew presentation there has been more news about the arrangement. In a recent Wall Street Journal piece the designer said he isn’t interested in mass market production:

I recently turned down a lot of money to create a mass-market type product. I don’t want to make that sort of money if I am polluting my brand.

A story in yesterday’s British Vogue echos those sentiments about retailer collaborations:

“I have been approached so many times to do one, but I don’t want to work for a big company where I’ll have to have lots of meetings where I’m told what I can and can’t do,” he said. “My niece, Kristina, handles that sort of thing for me – it’s just not for me. I was recently contacted by J Crew to do something with them, so I sent them over 45 pairs of shoes, and they announced we were doing a collaboration. I had no idea about it!”

Hmmmm… somewhere between Mr. Blahnik, his niece, and Mr. Malkemus (Blahnik’s USA division president quoted up above) is the truth. It will be interesting to see how this one turns out.

BTW, if you are a college student and love Milly as much as we do, this post from the brand’s FB page might be of interest:

Do you love MILLY? Do your friends and family love your style? Share the love!

Milly is currently searching for college ambassadors to launch our new 2012 style-setter program. In recognition of your efforts, you will have exclusive access to Milly including discounts and promotions, hands-on marketing experience, and the opportunity to develop your entrepreneurial skills. What’s not to love!?

If you are interested, please send an email to ambassador@millyny.com by Tues, Feb 28 requesting more information.

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Our other topic today involves Sunday’s big do, sometimes it includes a bit of this:

Excess

Somehow we find a way to overlook any of that because we’re so busy blathering on casually observing the pretty party frocks.

Sadly this is the last Academy Awards show that will be held at the Kodak Theater. Even if the event is held in the same building next year, the name will be different, as part of its bankruptcy proceedings Kodak is dropping its sponsorship of the Theater.  In fact, most reports say that name won’t be heard at all Sunday night, the landlord has told ABC and the Academy to refer to the venue as the “Hollywood and Highland Center,” presumably they have also asked ABC’s producers to have photographers shoot around the name on the building. 

Amy Sancetta/AP Photo

If looking for a little libation inspiration, the folks at Guest of a Guest offer recipes for cocktails with a Best Picture Nominee Cocktail Guide, it includes a frozen Mai Tai inspired by The Descendants:

Guest of a Guest

2 ounces coconut rum
1/2 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce citrus rum
1 1/2 ounces pineapple/orange juice
1/2 ounce cherry rum (try Coconut Jack)
1/2 ounce maraschino cherry juice
maraschino cherry for garnish

Another recipe is for an Orange Tree of Life.

Via Guest of a Guest

 2 Slices Orange
4 Muddled Grapes
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
½ oz lemon juice
1.75 oz Bushmills Whiskey

A few of those and you really won’t care how long the show runs and every acceptance speech will be a thing of beauty, non?

I imagine we’ll be visiting with some of you on Twitter Sunday night; until then, or Monday’s post, have a splendid weekend.

Party Frocks, Mad Men, & the Perils of 8 Inch Heels

Hello-Hello and Happy Monday!

Some may be starting the week with less rest than normal, we know loads of friends stayed up last evening to watch the goings-on at the Kodak Theatre.  As always, hits and misses littered the scene once all was said and done.

We loved the Marchesa gown Best Actress Sandra Bullock wore.

The fabric was exquisite, and Ms. Bullock wore the gown, it did not wear her.  We adored her comments on choosing The Dress:

“There are so many gorgeous dresses out there I couldn’t possibly predict the trends,” she said. “My stepdaughter picked out my dress yesterday.”

Cameron Diaz was stunning in Oscar de la Renta, we called it the Fairy Tale Princess dress.

Gabourey Sidibe was radiant in blue Marchesa.

We laughed (and agreed) with the Twitter comment asking how many Muppets had to die to create Zoe Saldana’s Givenchy Couture gown.

The top portion of the dress was simply breathtaking. If only the lower half carried out through the theme.

WWD’s post-mortem had an insightful thought on the styles seen last night:

“Some, though, seemed a bit overwhelmed by their looks. Miley Cyrus in Jenny Packham looked less sexy than Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka.”

Of course, comportment always has a significant influence on any appearance. Below we see the darling bow on the Jenny Packham dress and Ms. Mirren’s oft-discussed tattoo.

We struggled with Sarah Jessica Parker’s look, it seemed to channel the sixties but appeared a beat off, whether it was the hair or eye makeup, we’re not sure.  More from Women’s Wear Daily on her gown:

“…donned a Chanel Haute Couture gown “that Mr. Lagerfeld so nicely made for me when I asked him,” was so in love with her dress “that I don’t want to give it back. I also don’t want to sit down, because the back is so beautiful.”

Fitting in one’s seat must have been challenging for some:

Donato Sardella/WWD

Tighter shots better show the diaphanous fabric used for Amanda Seyfried’s Armani Privé creation, as well as the Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.

While some awarded Mariah Carey points for ‘most improved,’ the Valentino didn’t work for us. The diamonds were provided by Chopard.

One report speculated the entertainer may be “in a delicate condition” (our term) and also commented on the struggles this particular ensemble presented:

“Wearing extremely high eight inch heels… and a dress that prevented her from actually walking on her own, Carey was held up by her security guards.”

“I don’t think I can do this,” she whispered.”

Most were not fond of Charlize Theron’s Dior Couture dress,and one report referred to Virginia Madsen’s gown from Kevan Hall as being “Frumpytown”.

Some celebrities took advantage of an opportunity to wear more than one party frock; below we see Faith Hill with husband Tim McGraw at the Oscars in one dress and in another gown at the Vanity Fair party.

Not everyone received the “less is more” memo this year; Hilary Swank’s dress for the after parties was by Valentino.

Also seen at the Vanity Fair party, Mad Men’s Jon Hamm and girlfriend Jennifer Westveldt.

Craig Barritt/Getty

Co-star Christina Hendricks attended along with Jennifer Hudson.

Others at the annual fundraiser for the AIDS Foundation included the Jonas Brothers….

Gus Ruelas/Reuters

Heidi Klum and Rachel Zoe…

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Olympians Apolo Anton Ohno and Johnny Weir….

Refinery 29 has compiled some wonderful montages, including their “Most Divisive” list:

Refinery 29

There are scads of places to look at more fashion coverage, including the Refinery 29 post mentioned above, InStyle, FabSugar and WaPo’s story.

We were puzzled by an unusually cranky-looking George Clooney.

Perhaps he forgot the reminder posted for celebrities as they face the cameras.

Until next time!

ADDITIONAL PHOTO CREDITS:

• John Shearer/Getty
• Jason Merritt/Getty
• Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty
• Frederick M. Brown/Getty
• Amy Sancetta/AP

Magic Knickers & Bingo Wings-Who Knew?

Hello-Hello and welcome to a Thursday here at the Prepatorium!

We begin with what may be a surprising admission: we are actually looking forward to the big event this weekend for fashionistas, the Red Carpet at the Oscars. (Although we are terribly worried for our friends in New York and hope you are able to see the show. ABC and Cablevision really need to play nice with one another, honestly.)

Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

Our friends at the Telegraph have a stellar piece on avoiding Red Carpet disasters.

Getty Images & Rex via the Telegraph

The Telegraph cites Beyoncé Knowles, Sophia Loren and Miley Cyrus as the Worst Dressed at last year’s event.  One advisory, the story does flirt with a verboten topic, a lady’s unmentionables. (Gasp.)

4. Underwear

It must match, first rule of play. And if you’re resorting to “magic knickers”, “Spanx” or any “lose-a-size” wonders, make sure your dress is sufficiently opaque or in a heavy fabric which will not disclose what lies beneath.”

What a marvelous term, “Magic Knickers”.  Below we offer gowns/personalities making most lists of Oscar fashion disasters:

Splash News

Oooh, we had forgotten how unfortunate that garment was on Ms. Paltrow.  Next, a fire engine red fashion faux pas.

WENN.com

And then there was this, we can’t share the word that always comes to mind upon seeing the gown. (The word isn’t about Ms. Kidman mind you, it is the dress.)

Splash News

Ouch.

Another term we hadn’t previously heard: “Bingo Wings”.

5. Arm yourself!

With a little tulle or chiffon “shrug”. It’s a Dame Helen Mirren style secret and your “bingo wings” will remain yours.

We’re thinking this is the sort of accessory discussed in Rule #5.

Frazer Harrison/Getty

There are sure to be more hits and misses this weekend, we are eager to see who is wearing whom. (For a gallery of previous red carpet styles, click here.)

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The Academy Awards offers an audience many advertisers covet; Penney’s is taking advantage of this, launching a new image campaign.

JC Penney

The retailer is also using the broadcast to officially kickoff OlsenBoye, the line from the Olsen twins. Click here for a previous post with more on the collection.

Courtesy JC Penney

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We close with an early look at the Liberty of London for Target line, due in stores and online March 14.

Courtesy photo via Catwalk Queen

The retailer has a splendid interactive feature online showcasing Liberty prints, anyone can pick a pattern and download it for use as a screensaver or desktop wallpaper.

Target

Here are a few more images from the always-on-top-of-all-things-fashion Catwalk Queen.

In this next image we see pieces from the home collection including a lamp, bedding and candles.

Target

More from the line.

Courtesy Photo via Glamnest

We could be mistaken, but we recall reading that some items, like the gardening tools, are only going to be available online.  We think the Queen Mother might find the gloves appealing.

We’ll make the planter today’s Pretty in Pink.

Courtesy Image via Glamnest

At only $9.99 it’s also pretty nice on the pocketbook.  Another item on its way to your local Targét, a Liberty print bicycle.

Target

As an FYI, the colors are much richer (and in many cases brighter) than our images show. Having returned less than an hour ago from a little jaunt to our local Target, we can report that banners promoting the line are in place all over the store.  The collection includes products in every category, from clothing to accessories to home goods, it is a very important launch for one of our favorite places.

G’bye until next time!

Slumdog Kids in Brooks Brothers, J. Crew also on the Red Carpet

Happy Day everyone, as we draw closer to the end of the season’s dreariest month, although it has been bright and sunny of late here at the Prepatorium, simply because we say it must be! No blahs allowed. Scat! Scram! Vamoose!

We begin with some Red Carpet fashions from Sunday night’s Academy Award ceremonies. Many know about our next Oscar dress story, but first, a look at the younger set from Slumdog Millionaire.

Courtesy Brooks Brothers

The young actors in the photo are wearing tuxedos from the standard Brooks Brothers collection as well as the more stylized Black Fleece line.

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In Friday’s post we mentioned the possibility of ABC’s Robin Roberts wearing J. Crew while co-hosting the network’s Red Carpet show Sunday night.

PHOTO: Amy Sancetta/AP

The Good Morning America anchor did several stories about selecting a dress for the high-profile telecast, and viewers voted online to pick the gown she should wear.  The big winner? J. Crew’s Gracie gown from the Weddings and Parties Collection.

The gown is shown on the website, but is not at J. Crew stores, available only through the catalog and website. Below, Ms. Roberts and Crew’s Jenna Lyons look at accessories with Suze Yalof Schwartz of Glamour magazine.

PHOTO: Ida Mae Astute/ABC

Next, a J. Crew dress that didn’t make the cut.

PHOTO: Ida Mae Astute/ABC

And one more J. Crew look that Ms. Roberts did not select.

PHOTO: Ida Mae Astute/ABC

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In today’s Conspicuous Consumption category, we offer the Vertu Diamond Constellation phone:

Courtesy Athem via Luxist.com

This marvel is now available in 18K gold with more than 1500 diamonds.  Most importantly for our readers, the phone can be monogrammed. We knew that information would influence your decision on adding one of these to your collection. It is available here for slightly more than the average cell phone. We are presuming this typifies what is commonly referred to as ‘bling’ in today’s verancular?

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A quick reminder – don’t forget to enter our Lilly Pulitzer Stationery Giveaway – simply click here to join in the fun! We are giving away a matching Lilly Latte Da! Mug….

Lilly Pulitzer Latte Da! Mugs

… along with the Mouse Pad that comes with its own pad of matching paper!

Lilly Pulitzer Take Note! Mouse Pad

Until next time dolls, grins and giggles!

The Preps Hit Fashion Week: Tory Burch, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren

Hello-Hello and Happy Weekend!

In yesterday’s post we promised more photos from the Tory Burch show at Fashion Week.

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

There was some angst here at the Prepatorium about the direction Ms. Burch is taking with this Fall’s Collection, and more than a few readers echoed these concerns. Below, the portion of the WWD story that we shared yesterday:

“Tory Burch is trading in her sandals and ballet flats for a pair of ready-to-rumble combat boots. This season, she’s gone streetwise and edgy.”

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

More from Women’s Wear Daily’s story:

“Burch still has those charming ladyfied pieces, as in the polkadot blouse and a prettily allover petaled jacket. The rest just skews oh-so-darkly glam. “I’m pushing the limits,” said Burch. “There’s a lot of leather.”

There is.

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

As far as there being “… charming and ladyfied…” styles, we scanned each and every look and encountered difficulty locating much we would call ‘ladyfied’ in the collection.  There are a few pieces reminiscent of the Tory Burch style existing customers expect to see from the designer, including this dress.

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

As well as this coat, not entirely flattering in the shot below.

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

One last style:

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

The Burch show attracted its share of entertainment industry stars, including Kanye West, LL Cool J and Russell Simmons.

PHOTO: Giovanni Giannoni

Women’s Wear Daily attributes some of the directional shift in the line to the designer’s romantic life:

“Ever since she’s been dating Warner Music Group Vice Chairman Lyor Cohen, Tory Burch’s fashion week presentations have felt more street than Park Avenue.”

Indeed.

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We also promised to share more from the Tommy Hilfiger show.

PHOTO: Marcio Madeira

The collection was titled “Quintessentially Fifth Avenue” in honor of the enormous Hilfiger flagship store on Fifth Avenue opening this summer.

PHOTO: Marcio Madeira

The program for the show started with this:

“It is aspirational yet affordable, inspirational yet attainable.”

Menswear is shown simultaneously; WWD had this to say in their review:

“Although the show failed to define the Tommy Hilfiger man, it had polish and ample commercial appeal.”

“

PHOTO: Marcio Madeira

Some may remember the coat from yesterday; we had to share it one more time.

PHOTO: Scott Gries/Getty

Also “Pretty in Pink,” the sheath:

PHOTO: Robert Mitra

We found this an elegant look:

PHOTO: Marcio Madeira

For some reason, this model looked exactly like Matt Damon to us.

PHOTO: Marcio Madeira

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Today’s hottest tcket had to be the Ralph Lauren show, drawing A-List celebrities like Gossip Girl star Blake Lively.

PHOTO: Andrew H. Walker/Getty

Also seen in the photo with Ms. Lively are socialite Amanda Hearst, David Lauren, and designer/model Lauren Bush.  You may remember our previous posts showing other G2 stars (Leighton Meester, Chace Crawford, Taylor Momsen) at other shows earlier this week; this was the first appearance for Ms. Lively.

Below, a few looks from the Fall 2009 RTW (ready to wear) Collection:

PHOTO: Kyle Ericksen

Another look:

PHOTO: Fernanda Calfat/Getty Images

One more shot below; we promise to share more from the Ralph Lauren show in our next post.

PHOTO: Fernanda Calfat/Getty Images

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Because we all want to pursue fiscally friendly investments, we leave you with a few more opportunities for savings, starting with the latest J. Crew promotion: 30% off Select Women’s, Men’s & Kid’s pants online and in stores.

Speaking of the Crew, has everyone seen the ABC news stories about Good Morning America co-host Robin Roberts? There is a possibility she will wear J. Crew to the Oscars this weekend, as detailed in this story.

PHOTO: Ida Mae Astute ABC News

The coral dress on the far left is the J. Crew, in silk tricotine.  The lavender in the center is silk chiffon by J. Mendel, and the cobalt blue on the far right is a Reem Acra creation.

Wisely, the retailer is promoting the possible Oscar connection:

Courtesy J. Crew

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We close with an “Adventure in Argyle,” the Four Seasons Argyle sweater on sale at Bobby Jones.

Bobby Jones Four Seasons Argyle Crew

Originally $275, the Men’s sweater is now $68 as part of the President’s Day Sale. There is more Men’s merchandise in the sale than Women’s, but you may find it worth a small investment of time.

Enjoy the weekend!