I love the confidence that makeup gives me. ~ Tyra Banks 

So this week I have chosen to write about one thing I adore…my passion…make-up!  Some of you may wonder what make-up really has to do with fashion…but it really has everything to do with it.  The way a woman wears their make –up can completely change the way their clothing looks on them.

I myself have always been interested in bold statement make-up…but I know this isn’t for everyone.  I can be found walking into the office with lime green and teal eye shadow smudged together with a purple liner one day, and then a natural brown shimmer the next.  To me make-up artistry is an expression of self.  Just as your clothing has something to say about you and your life style…so does your make-up. 

I can honestly say in both my own make-up adventures and in my professional gigs when I do some of my make-up artistry for events by far my favorite part of the face to play with is the eyes.  If the eyes are windows to the soul…well then eye make-up are a gorgeous set of stained glass windows. 

Some of you may say “but I don’t even know where to start or what I need”…it really is about the tools and the technique.  My make up skills have been completely self taught.  I find myself watching YouTube tutorials for hours on end at night learning new techniques for fun eye make-up.   If you are truly interested in learning some bold eye make-up techniques my all time favorite site is www.makeupgeek.com.  For anyone who loves make-up this site is like heaven on the internet!

Many people fall into the misconception that to get good results you must pay an arm and a leg for your make-up…this is simply not true.  There are actually some amazing brands that will not break your bank or your heart.  Now there is one product I would recommend not going cheap on…your eye shadow base…my personal recommendation is Lancôme Aquatique in Nude (now if you are a darker skin tone you may want to use Deep instead…I am just incredibly pale…porcelain if you will). 

Blush:

Affordable – E.L.F. – Found at Target -  Takes a bit more product, but has a nice color, normally runs about $3.00

Splurge – Lancôme Blush Subtil – Most major department stores that sell high end cosmetics – my personal favorite shade is Shimmer Pink Pool - $30.00

Eye Shadow:

Affordable – Maybelline ExpertWear Eyeshadow Quad – I personally LOVE the Sunlight Bronze Quad - $6.25

Splurge – Christian Dior 5 Couleurs Designer– my favorite set is actually discontinued; however, a close second favorite has to be Green Design…c’est magnifique! - $59.00

Mascara:

Affordable – Maybelline Volum’ Express Falsies Flared Wand – for most dramatic effect use Blackest Black or Glam Black - $7.77

Splurge - Okay…I have 2…  Benefit – They’re Real $22.00, or Christian Dior Show Iconic Extreme - $28.50.

Lip Gloss

Affordable – L’Oreal Colour Juice – Personally I love Raspberry Smash - $8.48

Splurge – Stila Lip Glaze – in my opinion by far the best lip gloss I have EVER used…fave shade…Apricot! - $22.00 http://www.stilacosmetics.com/  <~ it may be a splurge...but it is worth it!!! 

I could go on for days…weeks…and months about make-up.  The last and most important key for a flawless face is…using a foundation brush.  It may seem like a bit of a frivolous investment at first…however, you will save quite a few pennies because you will use much less make up when using the brush.  Also the product goes on more smoothly and evenly with a much better blend. 

Well…that is all I have for you now…for forward and conquer…one smoky eye look at a time! 

Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.

Mark Twain

My last two posts have been about two fabulous female designers I have been so honored to know, but now I would like to introduce you into the world of men's styling.

 Men’s fashion is typically a topic that not many people like to tackle for the skeptics are many, and acceptance can be slim.  However, when you have the right topic…it is a no brainer!  ZZ Top put it so eloquently in their lyrics…“every girl crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man.”

While working at Astor & Black I have had the pleasure of getting to know this sharp dressed man.  He is the man…the myth…the legend…Angel Ramos.  Some of you may know of him…some of you may not, but after this post I hope to leave you wanting to know more. 

If I told you that a real estate agent suggested that you wear a high peak lapel, an un-even tie, or a pair of camo print slippers you would most likely think I had lost my mind.  But I assure you, this isn’t your typical real estate agent.  His love for fashion and style is something that is innate and has always lay within him.  In 2010, he was the winner of Esquire’s Best Dressed Real Man, after this honor the job offers poured in for him.  He found himself drawn to Astor & Black.  Since taking his position with the company, he has been able to not only continue to style himself a cut above the rest (no pun intended…well maybe just a little), but now he can share his tips with others.

I don't design clothes. I design dreams.

Ralph Lauren

Angel has a style for himself that is unique and completely unexpected.  It combines a sleek elegance with an avant garde trend, a style that not just anyone can pull off.  While his own style is impeccable on its own, his creations for his clients are amazing.  Angel takes the time to understand his client, their personality, and their lifestyle to give them the look they are aiming for and will be comfortable with.  The amazing part about Angel is his ability to help you find your inner trend-setter.  When you are around this man you can’t help but want to step up your game, even if it is just with a splash of color or a pair of tortoise shell thick rimmed glasses. 

If there is anything that can be said about Angel is that he truly is an enigma.  Growing up in New York, with the style of a Miami man, but the heart and welcome nature of the friendly Midwest it is no wonder why he manages to attract so many different clients.  If Yves St Laurent was correct, if fashion really does fade…and if style really is eternal…then Angel Ramos is…immortal. 

If you would like to learn more about Angel check out The Ramos Report - http://ramosreport.tumblr.com/

The difference between style and fashion is quality.

Giorgio Armani

“Sometimes comfort doesn't matter. When a shoe is freakin' fabulous, it may be worth a subsequent day of misery. Soak in Epsom salts and take comfort in the fact that you're better than everyone else.”

 
― Clinton Kelly

Good Evening everyone!  As promised in my previous blog my next spotlight was going to be on Lauren Artista Luna…I have come to deliver upon this promise. 

I am privileged to have done work with Lauren a couple of years ago as her Marketing and Public Relations Intern, but more than that I am honored to call her my friend.  Lauren has a true gift and passion that turns the shoe industry on its head. 

Lauren has taken the haute couture and avant garde designs we see on the runway and has made them possible for everyone to wear.  So it is my honor to introduce to you someone who in my eyes is a true visionary…Lauren Luna. 

Lauren Luna was born in raised here in Columbus Ohio.  She graduated with her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree with her focus in Painting from Kent State University.  Lauren knew from a young age that she wanted to be an artist…but not just any artist…a famous artist.  This dream never changed for her throughout the years, but remained constant.  She travelled to New York to start her journey, and from that point on it has been an adventure. 

If you haven’t got it. Fake it! Too short? Wear big high-heels, but do practice walking! 

- Victoria Beckham

Lauren did not just settle for one particular genre of artistic expression.  From painting on a canvas, to chalk drawings on a closed street, to custom painted sneakers, and to stilettos adorned with nails, feathers, and crystals her art has spoken for itself.  With her self-named company forming in 2008 – Lauren Luna Ltd – she has taken her talent and made waves in the fashion industry in the form of custom shoes.  Her shoes are not limited to just a simple painting or crystal embellishment - they are works of art that are to be worn and put into motion.  I can still remember the first pair of shoes I ever saw of hers they were a white peep toe shoe with a stacked wooden heel, she had painted the most beautiful peacock feather up the side.  After seeing this shoe I had to know more about this designer.  Upon investigation I found that her mind was similar to one of the fashion industry's legends – Alexander McQueen.  She does not see her custom shoes as just a design…it is wearable art. 

Her custom sneakers are what made her initial push into the limelight of the fashion world.  As her popularity grew the Sneaker Heads took notice.  However, these were not the only people who stood up and took note of her talent.  She has been able to catch the eye of some celebrities who have been honored to wear some of her custom kicks: Donnell Jones, Raekwon, and LL Cool J just to name a few.  

However her talent is not just limited to a sneaker.  The last few years her high fashion vision for women’s shoes has come to life and has launched full force.  October 2010 she had her Seven Deadly Sins Fashion Show that show cased the wide range of styles she is capable of…and the vision which she holds. 

After this fashion show, her business began to skyrocket.  She has recently relocated to Houston Texas.  Within the last year she has started having not only her custom business launch but now has her  own brand of manufactured shoes being sold in store fronts in the Houston area.  She continues to amaze everyone with her inventive designs and creative interpretation of what we all wear on our feet each day. 

Find her custom designs and place orders at www.laurenluna.com

A women with good shoes is never ugly. They are the last touch of elegance. - Coco Chanel

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” ~Coco Chanel

 As I discussed in last week’s post, I never realized how surrounded I am by all aspects of the fashion industry.  I have made many connections and relationships with some incredibly talented people.  The first person I would like to showcase is a New York resident, Gaia Simmonds. 

Gaia wearing one of her own designs on the Independent Film Makers Showcase Red Carpet

I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to meet Gaia through our employment with Astor & Black Custom Clothiers.  I now can not only call her a colleague, but also a dear friend.  As this past year unfolded, I learned that my newly found friend was truly a remarkable designer.  She is filled with vision and inspiration, yet her designs are wearable and relevant to the lifestyle of today’s woman.  She takes a vintage feel and gives it a fresh new perspective…and puts in a bit of her own unique Gaia flare.  She recently granted me the chance to ask her some questions about her path to finding her passion.  It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you New York City’s own Gaia Simmonds!

Gaia, please first tell us a bit about yourself: 

I have never fit in, growing up I was a loner child picked on until high school. I think this has been something that has driven me to excel and prove everyone wrong. I was always obsessed with traveling and especially moving to the U.S.A something no one dreamed possible from a child growing up in small town England on welfare, but at the age of 15years old I made it happen!  

Where are you from?

Free As A...G by Gaia - Resort wear

Glastonbury Somerset, England.  It is a small country town known for its religious history and spiritual hippie culture. Most famous for producing Glastonbury Pop Festival which takes place once a year for 3days and has half a million people attending on average. 

What brought you to the States?

Determination. I convinced my mum to send me to an American summer camp and then extended the trip indefinitely...

What first made you interested in Fashion?

A vintage inspired original design

 I have been sewing since I was very small. I can remember making a little mermaid costume when I was only 4years old. I got into the idea of doing it professionally in High School in the UK when my textiles class was chosen to design the costumes for the high school play "Bugsy Malone", a 1920's gangsta period play.

Where do you draw inspiration from? 

 Everywhere, I love getting inspired by abstract things like a fence or even a piece of trash. I like to go to museums when I'm feeling like I need inspiration, but my greatest inspiration are fabrics. 

Are there any past or present designers that have influenced your passion for this industry? 

 My greatest influence in my own sense of style was Gwen Stefani, although I cannot claim to like or follow her clothing line.

Why?

Pre-Da-Teur by Gaia Simmonds

 Her personal sense of style and rebellion has always inspired me. I love the combination of vintage 1940's hair do's and glamour style make up with the rocker, reggae influences. 

When you create your designs do you have a specific person or market in mind?

 I like to always be designing to fill a need or for a specific theme. I feel when I have a person or theme to follow that I really can hone down the idea and concentrate on the important things. I have always designed things that I personally needed as well, either its club clothes, work clothes or just accessories, I find that if I am looking for it often others are too...

Do you feel the U.S. can compete as a fashion trendsetter?  Or will we always be a step or two behind?

 I think that the U.S will always have an influence on the fashion industry no matter what the fashion industry says. I believe the film industry is also not seen as a "fashion influence", when it really does influence the world by controlling what we see...

What is your own personal style?

I am all over the place, I don't like to conform to any one style but combine styles to create a balanced feel. I definitely would say that there is a rocker edge to most of my looks, and I am highly influenced by retro looks from 1920's-1940's especially. 

Gaia Simmonds Hoop Scarf

Gaia Simmonds Hoop Scarf

What are the 5 main fashion essentials you cannot live without?

handbag, one of my hoop scarves, killer shoes, my vintage leather jacket and my grandma's necklace. 

Do you have any exciting projects coming up?

I have a ton of great projects in the works. See gaiasimmonds.blogspot.com for all the details but as a quick summary:

1. Design Challenge Blog
2. Commercial Accessories Collection to be released 2013
3. Personal Business: Custom Clothing for clientele/Personal stylist/wardrobe consultant
4. Costume Design for the film Industry: currently working with Silverline Cinemas on the film "Last Man Stands" full feature. 

Lastly, but most importantly, how can someone be so fortunate to get a piece of clothing from Gaia Simmonds? 

Go to my website and submit order request form, or contact me via gaiasimmonds@gmail.com, gaia@gaiaclothinginc.com or [call]     646.510.5787       and set up a free consultation. All garments are made to order and customized to each clientele.  

I would like to thank Gaia for taking the time to complete the interview and provide me with some exclusive photos of her designs.  Her work speaks for itself as you can see!  Ladies and Gentlemen, she is a  fashion force to be reckoned with…and I am excited to join her on this journey as she sky rockets to the top!!! 

Please check me out again next week as I introduce to you another dear friend of mine, Lauren Luna, a custom shoe designer who’s designs have completely changed the game.    

"About half my designs are controlled fantasy, 15 percent are total madness and the rest are bread-and-butter designs."

— Manolo Blahnik

"It’s a new era in fashion - there are no rules. It’s all about the individual and personal style, wearing high-end, low-end, classic labels, and up-and-coming designers all together."

— Alexander McQueen

Caroline showing her stuff for the NC4K Prom Expo in a Joan's Bridal Couture Gown

Welcome to my blog…I am new to this so please bear with me. 

Fashion is something that I have had a passion for my entire life.  I can still remember as a young child picking out fabrics so my Mama could make my clothing for me.  I was anything but “conventional” in my desired attire.  I wanted belted shirts, leggings, neon colors, and sparkle!!!  My Mama knew she was about to create a monster when I wanted her to make me bright colored M.C. Hammer pants at the young age of six.  From that point on she knew she had given birth to a girl who would love trends, style, and fashion…not always a cheap hobby…but a fun one nonetheless. 

This blog is a new venture for me, as blogging is not something I ever felt I could keep up with.  I would never have thought to start blogging about fashion if it weren’t for a school project, but as I thought about it…I am surrounded by it!  I have many friends who are talented clothing designers, custom shoe designers, hair dressers, custom accessory designers, models, and I myself have worked with makeup artistry.  So I have decided that I want to devote this new venture to showing the world how proud I am of the fashion world that surrounds me whether it is a designer, a company, a person, or an event. 

These are two of my fave models I have ever done make up for...too much fun!

Throughout my 28 years I have managed to meet some fantastic people that I am honored to introduce you to.  These people truly are artists and have a style that is completely unique and all their own.  The passion and dedication that is required for this business is phenomenal.  The vision that goes into making a truly original garment is unrivaled.  I only hope that I can introduce you to some of the most amazing people I have found in the fashion industry that are unique and exquisite in their own individual ways. 

NC4K Prom Expo Photoshoot - Gowns by Joan's Bridal Couture, Hair Jana Boeshart, Makeup was done by Me :) and photographer was Julie with Kent Smith Photography

As some read this they may wonder, “Why do I need to know this person?  Why does it matter?”  Truthfully, whether you realize it or not, your clothing…style…image…is an outward expression that tells the world who you are.  We wear the clothing that we want people to associate us with.  The girl who walks with her high heels, designer purse, and big sunglasses is not wearing that clothing to leave any question of where she belongs.  She either belongs to an upper class society or wants you to think that she does.  The “indie” rocker chick who passes you on the street with gauges in her ears and three colors of hair wants to stick out…she does not want to blend in with the crowd.  These are conscious decisions we all make each and every day to show society where we belong…or at least where we desire to belong. 

“Dressing is a way of life.” – Yves St. Laurent