Designer David Peck Unveils David Peck USA, an American Fashion House in Central Houston

David Peck pioneers a domestic fashion house by celebrating American design, labor, and craft with rare authenticity. Combining architectural elements and cinematic elegance, Peck will debut CrOp Fall/Winter 2013 collection Fast Forward, with a private presentation and fashion house tour on Saturday, February 16,

France is the nation which gave birth to the maison couture; so it comes as no surprise that Peck, with his Parisian fashion training and New York experience, has opened the South's first full-scale fashion house: David Peck USA, in Houston, Texas.  Defined by an uncompromising commitment to the high standards of quality and unwavering attention to detail, Peck is dedicated to putting Houston on the map, not only for fashion design but also for clothing manufacturing.  "The majority of American fashion brands manufacture outside the United States. We want to change that, and I am confident with what we are doing we are on the right path. We believe that providing local employment not only guarantees higher quality control but also provides fair wages for an industry that is notorious for the contrary," says Peck.

As of September of last year, "fashion designer David Peck has turned a 6,000 square foot former real estate office into an impressive manufacturing headquarters and showroom" (Houston Chronicle). In Houston's Upper Kirby district, David Peck USA not only serves as a studio, but full-scale fashion design, production, and distribution base.

In addition to David Peck's CrOp ready-to-wear line and custom bridal, the fashion house manufactures for several local women's designers and a handful of children's wear brands. "Peck is leading a group of young designers who are determined to design and manufacture high-quality collections right here in Houston (CultureMap).

"We have created a unique and fascinating environment for both designers and consumers," Peck explains.  Alongside the dwindling number of fashion factories producing in New York and California, David Peck USA is a catalyst for local design and domestic manufacturing.
CrOp FALL 2013 Collection

Inspired by David's love of classic cinema, the Fall 2013 collection Fast Forward, combines mid-century elegance with architectural elements and infuses them with warm neutrals and bold color.  Chaos, mechanics, and decadence create sumptuous prints from unexpected sources that punctuate the collection, while new textures and textiles update some of CrOp's signature silhouettes.

Select members of the press, buyers, and clients will be invited to an exclusive, first hand look at David Peck's Fall/Winter 2013 CrOp collection, followed by a first-hand experience of how the collection is crafted.

"In the past we have exclusively debuted all CrOp collections at NYFW but this year we want to spotlight Houston's thriving fashion community. We welcome the Houston community and the entire fashion industry to experience first-hand an American Fashion House."

Who Is The Gwyneth Paltrow Of Fashion?

Ok, Gwyneth Paltrow – fashion plate, Boss Model and all-round glamorous movie star is the Gwyneth Paltrow of fashion.

But when it comes to crying on the podium, move over. Nicholas Kirkwood’s genuine, heartwarming reaction to the utterly unexpected news that it is he who has been awarded British fashion’s richest prize showed that Hollywood’s favorite blonde has met her match.

Who is Nicholas Kirkwood? You could call him “the new Manolo” (although we continue to adore the first one). You could call him the next Christian Louboutin, (although we continue to admire the current one).  Let’s call him the next great shoe designer whose heels girls crave.

It takes more than high heels to win the British Fashion Council/Vogue Designer Fashion fund. Kirkwood beat out competitors as tough as any Oscar race in Peter Pilotto, Mary Katrantzou, Roksanda Ilincic and Emilia Wickstead.

And no wonder the lad was overcome. Unlike the weighty Oscar which comes without cash attached, the  BFC-Vogue Designer Fund comes with moolah; 200,000 pounds sterling, as well as access to key senior level mentors across the fashion industry, this to underpin and accelerate the fashion star most likely to soar higher.

That it works; former winner is Christopher Kane, in whom French luxury giant, PPR, has just invested. PPR is the stable that holds Gucci, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney.

Tonight’s event at London’s Nobu also marked the debut of the most glamorous-ever chairman of the British Fashion Council. Expect Natalie Massenet, who has already turned a kitchen table business into the global luxury e-tailer Net-a-porter, to pull her new role off with equal aplomb.

As for the reigning queen of red carpet glamour who tonight surrenders the “weeping at the awards” award, how fitting; Gwyneth Paltrow wears Nicholas Kirkwood shoes.

Fashion-forward fitness trackers 'about to explode'

While fashion may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of wearable fitness trackers, manufacturers are hoping to change your mind by creating 24/7 lifestyle devices that look good with, say, a three-piece suit or little black dress.

Mark Wilson at FastCompany writes that with new modular devices coming soon -- sensors with interchangeable shells to diversify your look -- "the fashionable fitness tracking trend is about to explode."

One such device is the BodyMedia Core 2 Armband, which looks more like a glitzy bracelet than a geeky health sensor. While no details are available on price, the Core 2 Armband is scheduled for an August launch.

BodyMedia also announced that it will release easy-change faceplates, straps and cuffs so wearers can personalize their Core 2 "to match their mood, clothing, activity, or general style," according to a press release.

Other fashion-forward trackers include UP and Misfit Wearables' new Shine, which can be worn as a sleek bracelet, while Withings and FitBit have designed new modules that can fit inside interchangeable cases for versatility, according to FastCompany.

Specialty fashion group's profit soars

Womenswear retailer Specialty Fashion Group says a major reason behind a huge jump in projected first half profit is that it no longer sells cheap China-made copies of overseas designs.

Shares in Specialty Fashion Group soared on Friday after the group said it expects its profit in the first half of the 2012/13 financial year to nearly triple due to cost savings and improved sales.

At 1311 AEDT on Friday, shares in Specialty Fashion were 24.5 cents, or 35 per cent, higher at 94.5 cents.

The owner of the Katies and Millers fashion stores expects its net profit for the six months to December 31 to be in the range of $17 million to $18 million.

The guidance represents a significant increase from the company's $6.2 million profit posted in the corresponding period last year.

It also contrasts with the profit forecast of women's fashion retailer Noni B, which on Thursday said it expects its first half net profit to fall to between $1.7 million and $1.9 million, from $2.4 million in the prior corresponding period.

Noni B shares fell 14 per cent on Thursday.

Specialty Fashion chief executive Gary Perlstein said the group had experienced a significant turnaround in its trading performance as its strategy to transform its supply chain started to generate benefits.

Gross margins had improved as selling prices increased.

Selling prices had risen as a result of the implementation of design capability within the business.

'We no longer go overseas, buy a garment from a competitor overseas, go via China and knock it off,' Mr Perlstein told AAP.

'We actually design the product ourselves, so we have a point of differentiation in the market.

'That means you're not playing on price all the time.'

Although it had still been necessary to engage in discounting, Mr Perlstein said the better product differentiation had allowed the group to realise higher average sell prices.

The group also benefited from steady rents, reduced product cost and freight prices, falling cotton prices which had reduced the cost of fabrics, and the closure of underperforming stores.

Mr Perlstein said SFG's stronger trading performance had resulted in very strong cash levels, which would enable the group to continue its investment in expanding its online sales capability and open new stores.

The group would continue to invest in upgrading its online presence, which was designed to encourage online customers into the physical stores by giving them the choice of picking up products in-store or reserving products that were in-store.

Mr Perlstein said the group's outlook was still 'very cautious' given difficult trading conditions in the retail sector.

But the group was encouraged by the fact that it had been able to produce solid results during a difficult time.

Sales in the group's 892 stores in the six months to December rose two per cent on the prior corresponding period, and revenue lifted 1.3 per cent to $311.2 million.

Specialty Fashion Group is due to release its finalised first-half financial results on February 1

Getting Chic with George: Fashion Can (and Should Be) Fun!

Before the holidays I bought this awesome faux beaver fur coat from the Maison Martin Margiela for H&M collection. It's ridiculous, but I love it.

I thought about wearing it for my holiday trip to the midwest since it's freezing there this time of year, but decided against it because I knew that in my hometown of Skokie, Illinois, I would look like a crazy person in this coat. 

I was totally "Fashion Policing" myself!
Speaking of, I also didn't want to look like that guy from Fashion Police who was so desperate for attention. But at the last minute I had an epiphany and brought it with me anyway—and I'm so glad I did!

Sure, some people laughed at me, but others complimented me on it as well. Regardless, I felt great wearing it, so that's all that matters. 

Fashion should not only bring joy to the wearer, but it should also provide entertainment to the people who get to see what you're wearing.

Did I enjoy being laughed at? Absolutely not. But I did enjoy that what I wore elicited a reaction.
Whether they loved or hated, it still put a smile on their faces. 

See the Maison Martin Margiela for H&M collection
That's why I'm excited about 2013. I'm sensing a change in the air starting at the top with the designers and trickling down to the stylists, then of course to the actresses.

Red carpet fashion has been safe for too long.

I hope we are finally getting to the point where they don't care about what people on the Fashion Police say—as they shouldn't!

Bottom line: if you love it, you should wear it. So I dare you, go and have some fun!

Specialty fashion group's profit soars

Womenswear retailer Specialty Fashion Group says a major reason behind a huge jump in projected first half profit is that it no longer sells cheap China-made copies of overseas designs.

Shares in Specialty Fashion Group soared on Friday after the group said it expects its profit in the first half of the 2012/13 financial year to nearly triple due to cost savings and improved sales.

At 1311 AEDT on Friday, shares in Specialty Fashion were 24.5 cents, or 35 per cent, higher at 94.5 cents.

The owner of the Katies and Millers fashion stores expects its net profit for the six months to December 31 to be in the range of $17 million to $18 million.

The guidance represents a significant increase from the company's $6.2 million profit posted in the corresponding period last year.

It also contrasts with the profit forecast of women's fashion retailer Noni B, which on Thursday said it expects its first half net profit to fall to between $1.7 million and $1.9 million, from $2.4 million in the prior corresponding period.

Noni B shares fell 14 per cent on Thursday.

Specialty Fashion chief executive Gary Perlstein said the group had experienced a significant turnaround in its trading performance as its strategy to transform its supply chain started to generate benefits.

Gross margins had improved as selling prices increased.

Selling prices had risen as a result of the implementation of design capability within the business.

'We no longer go overseas, buy a garment from a competitor overseas, go via China and knock it off,' Mr Perlstein told AAP.

'We actually design the product ourselves, so we have a point of differentiation in the market.

'That means you're not playing on price all the time.'

Although it had still been necessary to engage in discounting, Mr Perlstein said the better product differentiation had allowed the group to realise higher average sell prices.

The group also benefited from steady rents, reduced product cost and freight prices, falling cotton prices which had reduced the cost of fabrics, and the closure of underperforming stores.

Mr Perlstein said SFG's stronger trading performance had resulted in very strong cash levels, which would enable the group to continue its investment in expanding its online sales capability and open new stores.

The group would continue to invest in upgrading its online presence, which was designed to encourage online customers into the physical stores by giving them the choice of picking up products in-store or reserving products that were in-store.

Mr Perlstein said the group's outlook was still 'very cautious' given difficult trading conditions in the retail sector.

But the group was encouraged by the fact that it had been able to produce solid results during a difficult time.

Sales in the group's 892 stores in the six months to December rose two per cent on the prior corresponding period, and revenue lifted 1.3 per cent to $311.2 million.

Specialty Fashion Group is due to release its finalised first-half financial results on February 18.

Big Brother Launches 'Fashion Police' as Part of Very.co.uk Integration

Very.co.uk, Carat Sponsorship and Endemol announce the next phase of their Big Brother partnership - a ''fashion police'' task to be aired this week on Wednesday 23rd January at 9pm on Channel 5.

The activity is the next phase of the Channel 5 and Very.co.uk partnership, which saw the online retailer become an official fashion partner to Big Brother for 2013.

On Wednesday evening, viewers will watch as Big Brother selects the most fashionable housemates and assigns them the role of the ''fashion police''. The stylish enforcers will then select outdated and dishevelled victims to take part in a Very.co.uk makeover that will feature solely branded products from Very.co.uk.
The fashion task builds on Very.co.uk''s innovative ''click to buy'' page hosted on Channel 5''s and Very.co.uk''s websites, allowing viewers to buy products as seen in the iconic Big Brother House. As the official fashion, home and furnishing license partner, Very.co.uk is supplying home and electrical goods, branded dressing gowns and suitcases for the celebrity housemates.

Jon Owen, director at Very.co.uk, said: "We have been very pleased with the results of our partnership with Celebrity Big Brother to date and are excited to take this to the next level with this inventive brand and product awareness activity. This task should provide great entertainment while showcasing our unique own brand and household name fashion ranges to a wide audience."

Rachel Gibbs-McNeil, Carat Sponsorship associate director, said: "We created the fashion police task as a unique way to drive further engagement and build on the Very.co.uk / Channel 5 partnership. It''s an innovative take on using branded editorial content to maximise viewer engagement for Very.co.uk in the entertainment space."

Claire Heys, director of brand partnerships and licensing at Endemol, said: "Endemol have been delighted to work closely with Very.co.uk to bring such a young, dynamic fashion brand to Big Brother''s core 16-34 audience by collaborating closely on the fashion police task."

Agostino Di Falco, partnership director at Channel 5, said: "Our partnership with Very.co.uk and Carat goes from strength to strength with creative solutions being at the core of everything we''re doing together."

Guide To NYC Fashion Week

Whether you’re sartorially savvy or the polar opposite of a fashionista, the high drama and sheer talent at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York—both inside and outside the tents—is a sight to behold. As designers from around the world prepare to debut their fall 2013 collections at Lincoln Center between Feb. 7 and 14, our Startle.com editors have been curating a collection of the best things to do and top-notch places to stay if you’re heading there to be part of the glitz and glamour.

Check out our blog on Startle.com to see which celebrity designers are leaving their high-style marks on luxury hotel suites.

What to Know
Fashion Week is a massive event that brings 100,000 people to Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park for eight days of style and spectacle. Shows are invite-only, but even if you don’t score a golden ticket, it’s worth a stop by the plaza for the ultimate only-in-New-York people watching.

This year, more than 75 designers will showcase their handiwork at official Fashion Week events; the roster includes legendary names (Ralph Lauren, Diane von Furstenberg) and emerging brands (MM6 by Maison Martin Margiela, Monika Chiang). Among the labels to watch this season are ICB by Prabal Gurung—often worn by first lady Michelle Obama—and American designers Trina Turk and Steven Alan. While the three have participated in previous Fashion Weeks, Turk and Gurung will present their first live runway shows at Lincoln Center.

What to Do
Beyond the formal shows of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the arrival of the worldwide fashion industry in New York spawns many spin-off events. Often more intimate—and typically easier to get into—these celebrations are good bets for an up-close look at models working the runway.

Nolcha Fashion Week is the city’s other official Fashion Week. The platform, created to help launch the careers of independent designers, will present fall and winter collections at Pier 59 on Feb. 13, with other events—from a bloggers’ brunch to after parties—running from Feb. 11 to 14.


Ralph Lauren at Spring 2013 Fashion Week, photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Small Boutique Fashion Week, meanwhile, presents its runway show and market on Feb. 10 at Metropolitan Pavilion. The event connects emerging designers with boutique owners, but because it’s open to the public, you can snag a ticket and enjoy the show as well.

Immediately following Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Couture Fashion Week (Feb. 15 to 17) focuses on luxury pieces from international designers. The often over-the-top designs are displayed with gusto; the event closed last season with a collaborative mural-painting exercise. This year marks the first time that Couture Fashion Week moves from the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Waldorf Astoria New York to its new home in the New Yorker Hotel.

One-off, niche runway shows provide more opportunities to sit in the front row. Reality TV fans should check out the first Reality of FASHION The Reality of AIDS fundraiser show, taking place Feb. 9 in The Altman Building. With models plucked from programs like Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise, this open event guarantees more than a smattering of reality-star sightings. And on Feb. 12 at downtown hot spot Tenjune, Fashion Meets Music teams up with Camp Couture NYC for a show that melds fashion and entertainment; artists slated to perform include Amanda Brown of The Voice. General admission tickets are available.

Shopping is, of course, synonymous with fashion shows, and even if your wardrobe is more prêt-à-porter than haute couture, you can still fill a bag or two with cutting-edge ensembles thanks to the pop-up shops that proliferate during Fashion Week. Head to Nordstrom-owned Treasure & Bond in Soho for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund pop-up that spotlights designs from this year’s 10 Fashion Fund finalists. The featured designers join an illustrious club of past winners like Proenza Schouler, Prabal Gurung, 3.1 Phillip Lim and Thom Browne, designer of first lady Michelle Obama’s 2013 inauguration coat and dress. This Fashion Fund pop-up opens on Feb. 6.

Retailing 2013: Fashion And Tech Trends To Watch

Will Young is a director at Zappos Labs, which is part of Amazon.com‘s Zappos unit.

Will Young
At Zappos Labs we’re always looking ahead to create new experiences to wow our customers. As fashion and tech continue to merge in 2013, we’re excited about a few trends that we think will make life for brands and consumers more fun and interesting.

Clothes online? Why not!
Many technophiles are shocked to hear that only about 13 percent of clothing sales happen online. 2013 may be the year where we finally see buying apparel online become second nature. It’s easier than ever for a small or new brand to sell clothes online using a platform like Shopify or Magento. Existing online retailers are also stepping up their game with better photography, product videos, lookbooks and magazine quality content to help you decide what to wear. Mobile will continue to infiltrate how we shop for clothes as well. This can range from price comparison tools to mobile apps designed to help you shop other people’s closets. This year I won’t be surprised to hear someone say her first online clothing purchase was a second hand item! We also have our fingers crossed that tools to help you figure out your perfect fit online finally break out of the “it’s a cute gimmick” space and really help people find the right size.

Big Data turns out to be a big deal, even in fashion
2012 was a year where everything was about Big Data. We believe we’ll see big strides around actionable big data in 2013 in the fashion world. Many companies already use their vast amounts of data for recommendation systems: e.g. people who bought this, also bought this. However, that is just scratching the surface. There are an incredible number of additional signals available to help match you up with the perfect outfit. What types of dresses are trending on Pinterest? What is the most popular hat in my city? You returned a pair of stone-washed 32×32 514 Levi’s jeans, what does that say about you? Did your friends on Facebook and Twitter recommend a great hiking shoe recently? How did the latest celebrity couple sighting impact the sale of fanny packs? So much data! We’re excited to see what the industry does with it all.

 A future where we make our own clothes?
Paper dolls democratized fashion for children. Will 3D printers do that for adults in 2013? Unfortunately, it’s probably a bit too early to expect that we’ll be printing our own clothes on 3D printers at home this year. Nonetheless, we’re excited and nerding out about the possibilities there. We’re keeping our eyes peeled for what bold designers will embrace this movement and how “makers” will impact the fashion-tech industry. 3D printed bikini anyone?

 Let’s get physical
While we’re focused on e-commerce, there is a lot of innovation happening in brick-and-mortar shopping that will continue to evolve into more immersive experiences. Stores are doing a better job of integrating their online and physical channels. It’s definitely convenient to be able to buy online and return it in the store. But how would you feel being greeted by name walking into a store you have never been in before? What if they also already knew your fashion taste from your online purchase history? And knew from your tweets that you were in town for a wedding and might need something for it? And knew from your earlier foursquare check-in at the Ritz that it’s probably a fancy wedding? Creepy? Or fantastic? And who says a physical store is just for selling things? If Office Depot can open up a retail shop that is also a coworking space, what about a department store opening up space for you to create and customize your own clothing in stores? We think we’ll also see more online-only retailers experiment with more physical spaces such as pop-up shops (or trucks). As online retailers keep trying to get people to buy online, we need to remind ourselves why people love shopping at stores!

And finally: the trend that will reign supreme no matter the fashion tech innovations that emerge in 2013: Increased attention to service. By everyone.

It’s encouraging to see small and big companies continue to innovate in their level of service. We’re already seeing faster deliveries (eBay Now and Amazon same day) and more personal support (i.e. welcome e-mails with the CEO’s personal e-mail address like Chris at Betabrand.com). Do you remember the first time a company provided customer support over Twitter or Facebook and that “wow” feeling you had? We’re looking forward to seeing a few more of those service innovations this year and excited to see who leads the way.

Modesto students gain fashion sense through ROP

This spring, expect to see sun dresses in dusty blues, menswear in "alloy" gray and a new class of fashion-savvy teens learning the retail ropes in hopes of designing a good fit in careers.

Jacqueline Flores and Paola Perez, both Gregori High School seniors, buckled down last semester with 60-hour internships at American Eagle Outfitters at Vintage Faire Mall. Both learned the basics of stocking and stacking.

Flores worked her way up to cashier. "I was so nervous, dealing with my first return, but it's actually easy," she said.

Modesto Bee - Nan Austin/naustin@modbee.com Fashion merchandising teacher Brad Lash points out detail in a design project. Designs need to be parsed out and priced out down to the buttons and thread. Taken at an ROP fashion merchandising class on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013, at the Modesto City Schools Reno Avenue complex in Modesto, Ca.

Flores liked helping customers find clothes that looked good and fit their body type and coloring, sometimes nudging them to better choices with a compliment. " 'Oh, I think this color would be great on you.' We picked that up really fast," she said with a grin.

Perez focused on styling the mannequins and laying out complementary merchandise. "I learned how to waterfall the clothes (on staggered hooks)," she said. "I used the color wheel a lot, light to dark, and how to match."

Both survived the pre-Christmas crush. "Your time goes by faster when it's busy and there's more to do," Perez said. "You really need to be a multitasker."

Downey High School senior Omar Cruz said a lot of customers fail to consider their trendy choices. "They don't really know fashion," he said. "It's just whatever catches their attention."

That's exactly the type of boots-on-the-ground knowledge ROP fashion merchandising and advanced fashion teacher Brad Lash wants his students to sock away while racking up retail hours.

"Not all are successful to the same degree, but they all learn what it takes," he said. All learn the money side of those dreamy duds, the demands of customer service, and that employers expect them on time every time.

Some find that a hands-on helper role fits like a glove. Others get their feet wet and decide to give retail the boot and run away from the runway. But the fashion industry has lots of other choices, Lash said.

"There's a lot of science and technology in fashion," he said, everything from fiber technology to inventory control, architecture and artistry, photography and publishing. "It's a huge part of the economy," he said, hefting the 916-page September edition of Vogue magazine from his desk.
The basics, too

While the fashion houses of Milan, Paris and New York are Vogue's (sliver of) bread and (faux) butter, Lash said, street fashion and what sells at Target also matter in the fashion scene. "It's all about selling, making money," he said.

He uses industry publications, videos displaying the latest couture collections and plain old lectures to teach fashion's underpinnings. Project boards have to not only showcase designs, they need examples of the thread and buttons, and a cost breakdown for everything.

"Students learn it's all about planning and execution to reach their goals," he said. "It's not how smart they are. It's the skills."

Lash spent years working at the Broadway store before it was bought by Macy's. Teaching credential in hand, he discovered Regional Occupation Programs, better known as ROP, and liked the mix of business and bookwork.

Teaching 75 students
This year he teaches 75 students from all the Modesto City Schools high schools at his studiolike class in the district's ROP center on Reno Avenue.

Some of his students take a shine to the glamorous end. Perez said she's considering modeling or fashion design, but if that doesn't work out, she'll always be a snappy dresser.

Flores would rather work backstage at runway shows and may try her hand at writing articles for Teen Vogue.
For Modesto High School senior Liliana Farias, retail rules. "I love the experience, all of it, from the stock room to the floor," she said.

But Henry Khy, busy drawing his updated twist for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" characters, said helping customers was not a high point for him. "They're so interested in clothes, but a lot of people don't know what they're doing," he said. "I was always just too afraid to say something."
Vanessa Romo, a senior at Davis High School, said she's a people person and does likes sales, although fashion may or may not be a fit for her. She's gained a lot from the class, she said. "It's just more relatable."

Can Washington Fix Its Fashion Problem in Time for Inauguration?

I'm fully aware that one haircut does not make an entire city fashionable, and I'm also in full agreement that the First Lady was hot before the bangs. But there's an article today in the Wall Street Journal by Elizabeth Williamson that would have us believe that D.C.'s political elite hail from some backwater fashion hole where ruching simply never arrived, where trends go to die, but don't even make it to live. This piece is about inaugural fashion prep, and how difficult it is (because it's in Washington, D.C.), and how much of a struggle it's been to "find inaugural ball gowns that defied Washington's button-down standard."

RELATED: 'Portlandia' Comes to the Beltway with Epic Bike Move
Williamson writes, "Many in Washington, the epicenter of political power, see high fashion as not only irrelevant, but downright suspect. Workaholics take a certain pride in looking like they slept in their clothes. A rakish fedora and cape, by contrast, recalls Jack Abramoff, the disgraced lobbyist. A daring dress means D.C. Madam."

The inauguration and its fancy ball turn the tables on all those standards, and people strain to break free from the constraints of their fashion world, yet fear doing so, questioning everything, suddenly as insecure as high schoolers going to a first prom. Williamson asks, rhetorically: "Do stripes convey sufficient solidity? To sequin or not to sequin? Is hair gel only for the shallow?" Some might say the odds are, in fact, stacked against such fashion-aspirers from the start. And some did:
"The beauty of D.C. is the culture," said makeup artist Erwin Gomez, but "I see terrible eyebrows."
Harsh.

Even though a stream of new blood into the capital imparts the hope that savvy youngsters will take hold of D.C.'s rickety fashion ship and steer her right, those kids totally missed out on how hip nautical might have been and instead often cleave to the norms just like their elders: pantyhose, navy, grey, blazers — fleece, I'd guess, for after-hours. Only the most creative and staunchly independent have any hope of survival against the rooted anti-fashion psychologies of the city (you would believe, from this article).

But there is hope of a sort; there may be change. A D.C. cosmetic surgeon told Williamson that for much of memorable D.C. history, people have wanted to look terrible! The city had actually attracted "an older, more homogenous crowd that took pride in a certain kind of haggard look." Now people are coming to their senses and accepting his services, and they're distinctly less frowny.

A groundswell of change may be literally at foot:
Celebrity hairstylist Luigi Parasmo said he has noticed that "guys are going to beauty salons instead of barbers. Younger guys' girlfriends tell them, 'go get a manicure and cut your green toenails.' It's a major trend for Washington."

Of course, when the trend is getting one's toenails cut, perhaps there's still room to grow. But it's not impossible that this is all some sort of deliberate fashion conspiracy, a rooted movement among a fervent group who may not even be the majority to remain in times past. After all, we've all seen Michelle Obama's bangs. Change is possible!

Fashion trends for 2013

Expect a lot of green, hints of neon, relaxed fit–and a few classics

Mood: Vintage-modern bohemian-Renaissance with Mediterranean inspiration (flowy frocks, soft tailoring) for Spring/Summer 2013. Invest on classic silhouettes like basic shifts and sheaths, slouchy tops, blousons, palazzos, flowy bias skirts, couture shorts. Fabrics: Soft to hard. Colour statement: Green!

Ruby Gan, fashionista, chief operations officer of Shop Manila Inc. (Myth, Schu, and Chocolate by Schu boutiques)

I see more pastel and neon colours on clothes, accessories, bags and shoes. I would suggest that shoppers get edgy pieces like a pair of bright/neon pair of danglers or necklaces in pastel and gold combination so they can easily update their wardrobe. Last year’s sorbet colours can easily be updated with these accessories. Degradé is once again relevant, this time in denim (either top or jeans).

Joel Escober, fashion designer

Peek-a-boo veilings, couture ruffles, and a new take on the kimono. People should invest in good white tops, whether tailored, with ruffles or sheer.

Rhett Eala, fashion designer, creative director of Plains & Prints

Tailored black pantsuits like what Raf Simons did for Dior; printed dresses, long and short; white eyelet pieces with nude lining. Wedge cork shoes in neon shades of orange and green. Green is the colour of the year. Emerald green is my favourite.

Noel Crisostomo, creative director, Collezione; featured designer, Myth

There’s no major trend for 2013 because not a few designers in the world’s fashion capitals offered so many looks this year. Having said that, the must-have look for 2013 for women is, ironically enough, heavily influenced by menswear, such as tailored pieces with enough lady-like chic.

As far as colours go, bright colours and hints of neon for men and women as well as black and white graphics, also with hints of neon, will be big in the coming months.

A major look for summer 2013 for men is nautical. For Collezione, I created the traditional navy and white striped polo shirts with hints of bright yellow and green.

Consumers should invest on formal wear this year. Every man should own at least one dark colour suit that can take him to a formal wedding or a dress-up black-tie event.

Women should invest on a classic evening gown. Pick a style that is on-trend but still classic with just a hint of bling.

At Myth in Greenbelt 5, I’m offering styles that are classic but effortlessly chic with just the right amount of drama and bling, which I hope the ladies would find perfect for almost any formal occasion.

JC Buendia, fashion designer

Every year, there’s a forecast colour, but every time we always end up with black. I feel though that this year, colour will be back. There will be a renewed desirability for such shades as green and orange.

Tops will have lots of couture manipulations—unexpected tucks, pleating and bias inserts. Pants will be more structured. Skirts, either flounced or embellished, will come in more festiveshapes and looks.

Last year, I collaborated with Kashieca. I’m not yet free to reveal the details of our future collaboration this year, but hopefully there will be one.

Francis Libiran, featured menswear designer, Myth

For men’s fashion, must-haves for 2013 are still skinny pants with stretch material, including stretch cotton, for easy movement.

Super shorts for this summer are out. Instead, men should buy shorts with a more relaxed fit and hemlines just above the knee.

Prints, in the form of animal, camouflage and various fun prints, combined with vibrant colours are also in, especially this summer. Since the mood is generally fun and vibrant, forecast colours include happy ones like yellow, jade and bright blues.

With regards to suits, the double-breasted style, with a slimmer fit, is also making a comeback. Not too many Filipino men are used to accessorising their suits, but incorporating such items as a pin or a flower is ideal for double-breasted suits.

Sheree Gotuaco, CEO of Elite Garments International Inc. (Ensembles, Freeway, Solo boutiques)

Leaf green would be a fresh colour addition to the past holiday “brights.” As for investment on wardrobe, it’s always good not to be victim of trends. It’s more important to choose styles that flatter your figure. In the end, you will tend to gravitate toward such pieces anyway. You’re bound to make more worthy purchases if you know your body as well as your strengths and limitations well.

Hello, Shibuya Tokyo Fashion & Culture event for Singapore

From February 22 to March 10, Singapore will be graced by the Hello, Shibuya Tokyo Fashion & Culture Mix Show with Singapore pop-up shopping event in the Atrium Space at Plaza Singapura.

Lovers of fashion, art and Japanese pop culture will be able to totally immerse themselves in Shibuya cool, straight from the streets of Tokyo, thanks to the admittedly somewhat quirkily named event ‒ how much more Japanese can you get?

Based on three themes ‒ "incubation, local cooperation, and contributions to Shibuya" ‒ there will be over 20 stores, art exhibitions, fashion shows and some industry events during the Hello, Shibuya Tokyo Fashion & Culture Mix Show with Singapore.

Organised by Parco Japan, and based on its cutting-edge, super-successful Shibuya branch, the event has also been supported by various Japanese government organisations including the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry as part of its 2012 Cool Japan Strategy Promotion Program, The Embassy of Japan in Singapore and the Japan National Tourism Organisation. Singapore's government has also go on board with support from SPRING Singapore and the Textile and Fashion Federation.

On top of the great Japanese labels that will be available ‒ just some of the brands are ANREALAGE, GVGV, mintdesigns, plumpynuts, Gizmobies and MURUA ‒ there's also been some cool collaborations between Singapore fashion designers and graphic designers like max.tan and :phunk studios.

ANREALAGE has created a dress with a print design by :phunk studios; there are tees and tote bags created in collaboration between Singapore's Asylum and BooksActually and emerging Japanese designers and the creation of Villi Villi iPhone stickers by some of the current crop of Parco Next Next designers.

If you have even a passing interest in Japanese pop culture, Japanese fashion, art and design, you can't miss the Hello, Shibuya Tokyo Fashion & Culture Mix Show with Singapore pop-up shopping event.

Stay tuned for more on this cool event as herworldPLUS heads to Tokyo to meet up with some of the designers involved and brings you more details on all the fab fashion labels you need to look out for in February.

The Hello, Shibuya Tokyo Fashion & Culture Mix Show with Singapore pop-up shopping event will run from February 22 to March 10, 2013, and will be held at the Main Atrium, Level 1, Plaza Singapura daily from 11am to 9.30pm and until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Gunsmiths 3D-Print High Capacity Ammo Clips To Thwart Proposed Gun Laws

Five months ago, the group of homemade gun enthusiasts known as Defense Distributed set out to create a lethal firearm that could be downloaded and 3D-printed entirely from scratch, circumventing all gun control laws. But as new gun bills have been proposed in the wake of recent shootings, creating a bootleg weapon with digital pieces may soon be far easier: As simple as printing a spring-loaded plastic box.

Over the past weekend, Defense Distributed successfully 3D-printed and tested an ammunition magazine for an AR semi-automatic rifle, loading and firing 86 rounds from the 30-round clip.

That homemade chunk of curved plastic holds special significance: Between 1994 and 2004, so-called “high capacity magazines” capable of holding more than 10 bullets were banned from sale. And a new gun control bill proposed by California Senator Diane Feinstein would ban those larger ammo clips again. President Obama has also voiced support for the magazine restrictions.

But Defense Distributed founder Cody Wilson says he hopes the group’s recent work demonstrates the futility of that proposed ban in the age of cheap 3D printing.

“We want to preempt Feinstein, to eat their lunch,” says Wilson. “This isn’t 1994. The Internet happened since the last assault weapons ban. This is a fledgling tech, but look what we’re able to do. We printed that magazine out.”

Here’s a video of Defense Distributed’s latest testing. The clip begins with a dry question from Wilson: “How’s that national conversation going?” a reference to Democratic House majority leader Nancy Pelosi’s call for a “national conversation” about gun control following the December massacre of schoolchildren in Newtown, Connecticut.

Defense Distributed uploaded its blueprint for the 3D-printable magazine to its website, Defcad.org, which aims to collect designs for gun components, many of which have been removed from other websites. In just the last six days, according to Wilson, 20,000 files have been downloaded from Defcad, including more than 2,200 downloads of files for printing the three pieces that are assembled to create the magazine.

“The liberty crowd loves it,” says Wilson.

The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence does not. “High capacity magazines are part of the weapons of choice of mass murderers,” says the group’s executive director Josh Horwitz. The larger-sized ammo clips were used, for instance, by rogue Army Major Nidal Hasan and the Tucson, Arizona shootings that killed six people and wounded Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Horwitz points out that Tucson shooter Jared Loughner was tackled while attempting to reload a new magazine into his Glock handgun. And police say that Newtown, Connecticut shooter Adam Lanza may have allowed some of his victims to escape while he reloaded his smaller clips.

“The more opportunities to stop a mass shooter, the better,” says Horwitz. “There’s absolutely no justification for 30, 50 or 100 round magazines. And there’s a very good public health reason to get rid of them.”

Defense Distributed’s Wilson calls those arguments a “pernicious ideological mechanism. This isn’t a matter of public safety,” he says, so much as a matter of state control versus individual freedoms. “If [a firearm technology] is used by law enforcement or military, you can bet they say it shouldn’t be used by you,” he adds.

Wilson argues that the high capacity magazine ban wouldn’t just be wrong, but also impossible to enforce, as his project aims to show. Even if Defense Distributed’s original goal of printing a gun from scratch remains out of reach, the restrictions on magazine could be far more easily bypassed, he says. “[Lawmakers] are taking a giant step backward, and it makes everything we’ve talked about more practical,” says Wilson. “There’s more opportunity to demonstate the usefulness, the consequences of our project. I can already print this magazine and show that prohibition has run up against a problem.”

Defense Distributed has already drummed up plenty of controversy: It’s been banned from the fundraising website Indiegogo, had its rented printer seized by the 3D-printing firm Stratasys, and been name-checked by Congressman Steve Israel in a speech calling for a renewal of the Undetectable Firearms Act.

After the group released YouTube videos of tests of 3D-printed lower receivers for AR-15 rifles, the popular 3D-printing community website Thingiverse began purging gun designs. Defense Distributed followed up by creating its own site for the censored designs at Defcad.org.

But the group has so far held off on attempting to print an entire gun while it waits for a legal license to manufacture guns from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. In the mean time, it’s been busy creating and refining its firearm components. The magazine, for instance, failed after three to five rounds in the group’s first test but worked reliably in subsequent tests.

2013 Golden Globes fashion: Starlets opt for red, nail art

Fashion was on full display on the red carpet of the 2013 Golden Globes. Red seemed to be the color of choice this year for stars, writes Veronica Toney:

The Golden Globes red carpet was filled with red-hot dresses, up-to-there slits and a hint of sea-foam.

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler to host Golden Globes: It won’t be the first time the two actresses have shared a stage. Here are some of their past performances.

Red was the color of the night as Zooey Deschanel, Claire Daines, Jennifer Lawrence, Naomi Watts, Alison Pill, Melissa Rauch, Megan Hilty and Amy Poehler each wore the hue. As Katherine Boyle explained: Sure, there were other whimsical gowns that struck a starker contrast with the carpet. Anne Hathaway shined in white Chanel, and Jessica Chastain looked cheery in sea foam. But in the style stakes, red conquered the Globes. Has there ever been a better example of blending in to stand out?

There were a few instances of what the Style Blog coined as “Jolie-legging” from Halle Barry and Katharine McPhee.

The pastel frocks seemed to work for Jessica Chastain who accepted the award for Best Actress in a drama, and Anne Hathaway, who took home the Globe for Best Actress in a comedy or musical.

Katherine Boyle outlines which stars chose to wear the popular color, and who designed it:

There were few shrinking violets at Sunday night’s Golden Globes. Rather, the roses of the red carpet were in their fullest bloom. Zooey Deschanel of “New Girl”blossomed in a full-skirted taffeta gown by Oscar de la Renta.

Alison Pill of “The Newsroom” sizzled in a Memeka Studio gown by designer Gustavo Cadile. Megan Hilty of “Smash” proved, once again, that some like it really hot.

And one month after giving birth, “Homeland’s” Claire Danes made us boil with envy in a plunging scarlet gown designed by Versace.

Stars of the silver screen also donned the cardinal color of the evening. Naomi Watts opted for a backless, long-sleeved gown in the deepest crimson, by Zac Posen. “Silver Linings Playbook”nominee Jennifer Lawrence chose a Dior haute couture gown in the same hue  that she wore for her 2011 Oscars debut. Even Amy Poehler wore dark crimson — to roast James Cameron. (Ouch! That was a burn.)

Zooey Deschanel took Golden Globes fashion a step further with her nail art, Monica Hesse writes:

Attention: We have just our first Zooey Deschanel moment of the evening, in which she managed to up-twee her already astronomically high twee quotient by showing off her “thematic” fingernails, depicting a vintage camera and silver film. Et Voila: (click here to see nail art)

Adorkable (not our word!) nail art is apparently a regular weapon in the Zooey Deschanel arsenal of cuteness. Witness the tuxedo fingers she wore last year.

Fashion world keeps pressure on Missoni search

The fashion world is urging authorities to keep searching for the missing CEO of Missoni as Milan Fashion Week gets under way.

The Italian National Fashion Chamber has urged the fashion community to post messages on social networks to keep the search for Vittorio Missoni at the center of authorities' attention.

And designer Carlo Alberto Corneliani expressed solidarity with the Missoni family before showing his collection, the first of Milan Fashion Week, on Saturday.

Vittorio Missoni went missing with three other Italians and two crew members when their twin-engine aircraft disappeared off Venezuelan resort islands on Jan. 5.

Despite the uncertainty, the Missoni fashion house confirmed its menswear preview show for Sunday. In a message posted on Facebook, designer Angela Missoni expressed gratitude for messages of support.

Fashion Eyewear Launches January Sale

Fashion Eyewear has just launched its biggest January sale online. Traditionally, it is known that at the start of the New Year, along comes the shopping and January sales. Everywhere people are looking for a bargain and for the best products at the most discounted prices.

This year's January Sale at FashionEyewear.co.uk offers up to 50% off the designer eyewear brands currently in stock and ready to deliver. Luxury brands that are currently on offer include Tom Ford, Armani, and Dolce & Gabbana.

There is a massive selection of designer optical frames on offer, with or without prescription lenses. There are nearly 500 styles to choose from. The user-friendly side bar filter on the retailer's sale page helps customers to easily select the style, frame colour, price, and brand manufacturer they are looking for. Customers can also set filters for gender which makes gift shopping for friends or family much easier.

Fashion Eyewear's big January sale also has a wide selection of designer sunglasses on sale, over 400 pairs to be exact. The page is constantly updated so new frames and sunglasses are added onto the sale page on a daily basis. View the sunglasses in a 360-degree mode when selecting the product to see how the eyewear looks from all different angles. Details of the model and any additional information are also available on the page. Customers can also use the retailer's LiveChat service to speak to a member of staff to check stock availability on other models.

The company has also improved their delivery times thanks to the courier service company, DPD. Estimated delivery times are cut by 20%. Delivery is free for UK addresses. International shipping fees vary depending on the country the eyewear is being sent to. Once the UK orders are dispatched from the London office, the eyewear is sent out using Next Day delivery.

Fashion Week adds spring boutique crawl

Fashion Week of Rochester is adding activities year-round to complement its big event in October.

Organizers are adding a boutique crawl in March, a fashion run in June and a clothing swap in October.

True to its changing fashion form, Fashion Week of Rochester will be switching locations as well for the main event, which will be Oct. 16 to 20 this year.

One of the shows will be in newly renovated mixed-use space on Russell Street, off University Avenue near Gleason Corp. Third Presbyterian Church off East Avenue and the historic Temple Building downtown also have been added.

“It’s become not just fashion at Fashion Week,” said Elaine Spaull, executive director of Center for Youth, the beneficiary of Fashion Week. “We want to celebrate Rochester.”

Refashioning Rochester is the theme of the 2013 events, with Fashion Week now entering its fourth year. The year starts early with a March Madness boutique crawl on March 21, smack dab in the midst of college basketball playoffs. It will give sports widows a chance to shop during one of the games, Spaull said.

Boutiques in four corridors in the village of Pittsford, Monroe Avenue Pittsford, Brighton and Park Avenue will host the crawl from 5 to 10 p.m. with snacks and beverages. Shuttles will provide transportation to the boutiques. The shops will feature new spring fashion lines as well as some bargains and winter clearance items, said Chantiza Stern, a founding organizer of Fashion Week.

Rochester’s Longest Runway 5K race will be held at Total Sports Experience in Gates on June 8, instead of Cobbs Hill Park. Organizers want to attract families and teens, and encourage them to run the race in prom dresses, Spaull said.

New to the main event this year will be a Switch and Swap on Oct. 16. For $20, participants can bring a piece of clothing or an accessory to the Memorial Art Gallery and shop the racks for another garment to take home.

On Thursday this year will be the first of the runway shows, with the fall boutique crawl moving to Sunday.

The first show, dubbed Fashion at the Factory, will be at the new Russell Station space. This will feature the more edgy, downtown fashions with an event with the same feel, said founding organizer Meghan Mundy.

The Spirit of Fashion will be held at Third Presbyterian Church on Friday, Oct. 18, and feature family-friendly fashions. More kids and men fashions — and models — will be added to the show, Mundy said.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, a runway show called Fashion on Franklin will feature fashions from local boutiques and will be held in the sanctuary of the Temple Building.

To wrap up Fashion Week 2013, shoppers will have the chance to buy what they saw on the runway during the fall boutique crawl from noon to 5 p.m. on Oct. 20, with participating boutiques opening their doors for shopping in a party atmosphere.

“Fashion is always changing,” Mundy says, noting that it’s important to elevate the excitement every year.

Returning this year is the team at Scott Miller, who will be doing the models’ hair and makeup for the Saturday show. Scott Miller also worked on Fashion Week in New York City.

“We feel extremely committed to the Center for Youth as they are dedicated to helping kids be safe and find their way,” said Helen Miller, co-owner of the salon and spa in Pittsford and Webster. “Fashion Week is a wonderful collaborative effort where many talented people pool their efforts for this important cause.”

Spanish fashion designer Manuel Mota dies at 46

Manuel Mota, a Spanish dress designer specializing in bridal gowns for top models and high society, has died. He was 46.

Mota had been the creative director of Spanish fashion company Pronovias for the past 23 years. He helped build the family company into a world brand for wedding dresses.

The fashion house said in a statement that Mota died Tuesday at his home near Barcelona. Wednesday's statement did not give the cause of death.

Australian model Miranda Kerr and Israeli model Bar Rafaeli appeared on the catwalks in Mota's bridal creations. Mota also designed the celebrated dress of Dutch supermodel Doutzen Kroes for her 2010 wedding.

Modesto Lomba, president of Spain's Association of Fashion Designers, predicted that Mota's ideas and dress patterns would one day be studied at design schools.

"He's a reference for wedding fashion worldwide," Lomba said in a statement. "His work will endure in historical studies."

Spanish model Ariadne Artiles, who wore a dress from Mota's bridal collection at her own wedding, said the designer was patient with women's dress demands.

"I remember many fun times when I asked him for the impossible and he made it easy," Artiles said on Twitter. "He was a delightful man, good-looking, fun to be with and one of the most sensitive men I've ever met."

Mota's fashion house said it had lost a great artist.

"The Pronovias family has lost one of its dearest members. We will keep the memories of so many collections, so many catwalks, so much effort, so much talent and so many dreams shared by all," its statement said.

Missoni family hold hope missing fashion boss still alive

The family of Italian fashion executive Vittorio Missoni said on Monday they still believed he was alive, three days after his plane disappeared off the coast of Venezuela, and begged rescuers to find him.

The small twin-engine plane carrying Missoni, 58, his wife Maurizia Castiglioni, another couple and two Venezuelan crew members went missing on Friday after taking off from the resort of Los Roques, an archipelago off the coast of Venezuela.

"We believe Vittorio, Maurizia, Elda and Guido are still alive!" Missoni's sister Angela wrote on Twitter. "Please help us find them and bring them back home."

Italy's Foreign Ministry declined to comment on how the search for the missing plane was progressing.
Italian media have suggested Missoni, his wife and their friends Elda Scalvenzi and Guido Foresti may have been kidnapped.

The pilot of a Cessna 402 that took off exactly one minute after the Britten Norman BN2 carrying Missoni said he saw the plane disappear.

"I saw them right in front of me as they were swallowed up by a huge cumulus cloud," pilot Enrique Rada told Turin daily La Stampa in an interview published on Monday. "It was a lightning bolt. It must have been a lightning bolt."

Rada told La Stampa he was contacted by the control tower advising him of the plane's disappearance shortly after he saw it enter the cloud. He said he tried to make radio contact with the plane's pilot, German Marchan, but could not do so.

Missoni is the oldest son of the founders of the fashion house famous for its exuberantly colored knits, featuring bold stripes and zigzags. He is co-owner with siblings Luca and Angela, who handle the technical and design sides of the firm.

A decision about whether Missoni will go ahead with its Milan fashion show January 13 during the upcoming menswear collections January 12-15 may be made today and will be made public as soon as possible, a Missoni spokeswoman said on Monday.

The fashion house posted sales of 70 million euros ($91 million) in 2011, making it one of Italy's smaller fashion houses. Gianni Versace, for example, had revenue of 340 million euros in 2011, and Giorgio Armani had 1.8 billion euros.

Trends Media Group Survey Reveals Most Attractive Brands, Fashion Consumption and Design Adoption in 20 Cities in China

China's largest fashion and lifestyle publisher Trends Media Group has released its comprehensive new reports on fashion consumption and industry developments based on an annual survey in 20 Chinese cities. The survey unveils the top 10 most attractive brands and designers, and ranks cities by expenditures on fashion goods and services.  The survey further found that designer brands have been widely adopted and expenditures in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are rising, with consumption in some categories surpassing Beijing and Shanghai.

Trends Media Group (www.trends.com.cn) has been the top fashion & lifestyle publishing group in China since 1993, with the biggest market share in the fashion and luxury publishing and advertising market.

Its flagship brands include Cosmopolitan, Esquire, Harper's BAZAAR, Bazaar Men's Style, Bazaar Jewelry, TrendsHealth, Men's Health, TrendsHome, NG Traveler, National Geographic, FHM, Cosmo Bride, Good Housekeeping, Trends Time, Car, Robb Report, BAZAAR Art, etc.

As an omni-media servicing group, Trends also has portfolio businesses in book publishing, book stores, TV, radio, drama, events, Yoka.com, Trends.com.cn, Trendsmen.com, iTrends, strategic investment, etc.

Plane carrying Italian fashion heir Missoni missing off Venezuela

A small plane carrying six people, one of them Vittorio Missoni, a director of Italy's famed Missoni fashion house, is missing off the coast of Venezuela, Interior Minister Nestor Reverol Torres said.

The search for the missing aircraft continued Saturday, an Italian Foreign Ministry spokesman said.
Missoni confirmed in a statement that Vittorio Missoni, son of fashion house founders Ottavio and Rosita Missoni, was on the plane with his wife.

"The small plane they were traveling on has disappeared. This is all the information currently available," the company statement said.

 Plane carrying Missoni is missing 2011: Rise of an Italian fashion empire
Vittorio Missoni, 58, runs the company with his siblings, Luca and Angela.

The plane was carrying four Italian nationals who were on vacation, Reverol said in a statement Friday. The Venezuelan Interior Ministry identified the two other Italians as Guido Foresti and Elda Scalveuzi. A pilot and co-pilot also were on board.

The plane left Los Roques, an archipelago and resort, Friday morning bound for the international airport outside Caracas, about 90 miles away, Reverol said.

Italian authorities are in touch with their Venezuelan counterparts and the families of those missing, said a spokesman in the Italian Foreign Ministry's media office.

The ministry called on the Venezuelan authorities to do all they can to locate the missing plane and those on board, he said.

Missoni, which boasts such celebrity clients as Katie Holmes, Cameron Diaz and Nicole Richie, is a high-end fashion label known for its patterned knitwear and signature zigzag stripe.

The private company, based in Milan, has estimated annual sales of between $75 million and $100 million.
The brand, first created in 1953 as a knitwear workshop in Gallarte, Italy, has gone on to expand from apparel to housewares, a fragrance line and a chain of hotels.

Stefano Tonchi, editor-in-chief of W magazine, called the Missonis "one of the most important Italian fashion families," crediting their move to Milan in the late 1960s with helping make the northern Italian city the fashion hub it is today.

Vittorio Missoni and his siblings took over the brand in 1996 with an eye toward marketing to a younger consumer.

The fashion house partnered with Target in 2011 to produce a more budget-friendly collection for the discount retailer, which prompted Target's website to crash due to the high demand.

Fab Is Poised To Become The 'Ikea Of Fashion'

Fab.com now boasts more than 10 million members.
That's an impressive feat for the design-based social shopping site, which went live in 2011.

Because Fab prides itself on making fashion accessible to the masses, its the "Ikea of fashion," writes Kerry Folan at Racked.com.

The two businesses have many similarities. Both are focused on a clean design aesthetic and offering products that are affordable to everyone.

Bradford Shelhammer, Fab.com's co-founder, told Racked about his company's philosophy, which isn't about selling heavily-marked down designer gear.

"We will not be selling, for example, last season's Tory Burch inventory. That's not Fab," Shelhammer said "In many ways, we're doing for fashion what we did for home and product design—we're making it more accessible to everyone. We're reinventing the way people discover fashion and at the same time creating a marketplace for indie designers. It's the democratization of fashion and it's a very a big deal."

Sales in the fourth quarter were up five-fold from a year earlier, a huge jump, Mashable reported.
While Fab doesn't have the brick-and-mortar presence of Ikea, it's definitely a leader in the democratization of fashion.

Glam Slam: Fashion Faux Pas Queen

At lunch the other day, I noticed the woman at the table next to me had her top on inside out. There it was for all to see- a big Arden B label.

I felt her pain and of course, so have plenty of stars, who have gotten caught in less than perfect style circumstances.

PLAY IT NOW: Rent The Runway's Super Deals For Designer Dresses Over The Holidays!

Snooki is just one celeb who has dominated those "What Were They Thinking?" and "Fire The Stylist" columns of magazines for her Jerseylicious fashion choices.

Thank goodness most of us aren't famous because our fashion choices and fashion faux pas would also be put under a microscope. We've all had deodorant marks on our clothes, or maybe put together a less than flattering outfit to run out and do errands...we just don't have to worry about it ending up in the weekly magazines or online.

While I obviously don't dress anywhere near as outrageously as Snooki, I am the first to admit that I'm guilty of many, many style errors.

Here are few that could land me on a few "What Was She Thinking?' lists.

1. I recently had a lunch meeting with a publicist and as I get there, I notice that my new Helmut Lang shirt has lip gloss all on the front. I thought that was bad enough, but when I left I realized I had some random huge stain all over the leg of my white jeans. I can only hope no one else noticed.

2. One time, two girls were looking and looking at me and checking me out. I thought they liked my outfit or something and was feeling quite pleased with myself. Reality check. After much back and forth between the two, they finally came over and told me that I had toilet paper sticking out of the back of my pants. Eek!

3. I recently wore my shirt backwards.

4. One year at a work holiday party, I wore a brand new black blouse and pants ensemble, which I loved. It was only when I looked at photos afterwards did I realize the outfit was completely sheer and you could see my underwear underneath. Not quite the look I was going for.

5. I am also continually guilty of wearing the wrong thing for the occasion. One weekend two publicists were in town from NY and I went for a quick meeting. They told me it was very casual and I was coming from my daughter's soccer practice, so I had on a flannel shirt and puffy vest. I walk in to discover two very chic publicists dressed in nice suits and accessorized very stylishly. Casual for New York professionals has a different definition! Lesson learned...dress up more than you think for any occasion!
So Snooki, and quite a few other Fashion Police regulars, are in good company.

At least I can try to slink away anonymously after an embarrassing episode...they don't have that luxury.