Karen Walker: Spring 2010

September 14, 2009

Socially Superlative

It was a packed house at the Karen Walker show, where the polished designer displayed a nautical theme through unique dresses, sweaters, shorts, and outerwear. Held at the Altman Building this past Saturday on September 12th, 2009, navy blue and white were the primary colors used in the first part of the collection. Reds, yellows, and multicolored prints crept into the mix midway through the show.

Her collection, entitled The Village, is inspired by the 1960’s British television series, ‘The Prisoner.’ The TV series takes place by the seaside at a holiday resort serving as a prison for retired spies. Going off the theme of contrasts, Walker includes red and grey fine silk cashmere knits, navy blazers, and cotton dresses. Every piece evokes a seaside mood that ties in well with the rest of her collection.

Walker constructed each garment with master skill and managed to create clothes that will appeal to consumers. She did so without sacrificing her creative vision. Bold green florals and polka dot prints make the garments visually pleasing. Tortoise shell sunglasses, cricket hats, and canvas bags completed several looks. Each garment going down the runway stayed true to Walker’s design concept.

Karen Walker for Pointer footwear collection also made its debut down the runway. Pointer, a British footwear brand, collaborated with Walker to create the perfect shoes for her Spring/Summer 2010 collection. ‘The Alice Boat shoe’ and the ‘Caz Desert shoe’ were worn by several models and gave many outfits a more playful appearance.

This is Karen Walker’s seventh runway show at New York Fashion Week. Already one of the premiere New Zealand designers out there, celebrities such as Sienna Miller, Liv Tyler, Tyra Banks, and style icon Madonna have worn her designs. Walker lives in New Zealand with her husband Mikhail Gherman, and their young daughter.



Some highlights include (descriptions as stated in the program):
- Cropped trench coat over navy self-check narrow cropped pants
- Navy cotton frill shoulder dress
- Navy and white dot cotton playsuit with frill shoulder detail
- Navy oversized spot cotton parachute dress with navy and gold belt
- Blue and white brocade cropped jacket

- Megan McDonough

Socially Superlative

http://sociallysuperlative.com/2009/09/14/karen-walker-spring-2010/                                                                   

Maria Grachvogel: Spring 2010

September 14, 2009
Socially Superlative

Maria Grachvogel unveiled her American debut and Spring Summer 2010 Collection at the Altman Building this past Sunday. A chance encounter with a fabulous Scottish woman led to an invitation to be her ‘plus one’ at the showcase. With much success in London, I was excited to see what Grachvogel had created.

As much as I had hoped to rave about this collection, I found the clothing quite forgettable. Complimentary English tea, scones, cupcakes, and small sandwiches seemed to be the highlight for most guests. Having lived in London for a few months myself, I appreciated the mood and feel of the presentation, but that is as far as my enthusiasm goes. Regardless, it was refreshing to relax from a hectic day of fashion shows with a nice cup of tea and good company.

There were some beautifully executed silk and satin dresses displayed down the runway, but nothing mind-blowing. For the most part, Grachvogel chose black, white, and crepe colored fabrics, with the exception of a bright yellow tunic and two red outfits. My favorite look was a black and white long backless print dress. Maria was seen sporting this garment during the two hour presentation. High waisted pants and loose fitting blouses completed the collection.

The designer’s line is aimed at an older, more sophisticated woman, which was apparent when glancing at the make-up used on the models. The young teenagers appeared to have aged about fifteen years. It would have been more appropriate to have hired older women to wear these looks. I did, however, enjoy the low-key jazzy music played in the background.

Grachvogel’s collection will most likely sell, especially to wealthy upper class women who are sure to find her pieces wearable for any occasion. While I would have preferred to see a concrete vision or something a bit more innovative, Maria’s clothes are elegant nonetheless. She certainly has mastered the skill of knowing what best flatters a woman’s body.

- Megan McDonough

Socially Superlative 

http://sociallysuperlative.com/2009/09/14/maria-grachvogel-spring-2010/                                                           

Ivy H: Spring 2010 Debut Collection

September 14, 2009
Socially Superlative

Although I had no specific expectations for new designer Ivy Higa’s debut collection, Ivy h., I found myself rather impressed by the soft color palette of her clothes. Ivy decided to present her Spring 2010 collection at the New Art Center on Eight Avenue, only a short distance from the Bryant Park tents. The venue made sense considering the designer’s inspiration comes from art galleries.

It was a little chaotic when guests were finally allowed into the viewing rooms. Models scrambled around trying to catch Higa’s last minute instructions. I felt as if I was not meant to be there yet, or that I should pretend to look away from the distracting scene. Complimentary wine and pizza were offered during the viewing. It was a bit of a strange combination, but a nice treat nonetheless.

Higa’s debut collection is inspired by Akari Lamps, created by artist Isamu Noguchi. Heavily influenced by the illumination of the lanterns, Ivy makes her clothes using sheer and transparent fabrics in neutral ivory and pearl. The garments are meant to be wearable from day to night. Her use of silk, linen, and cotton provide an almost dreamlike quality to her designs. In my opinion many of her garments resembled nightwear, and by having the looks displayed as unmoving works of art, it took away from their overall wearability.

Ivy is a very personable and friendly woman. I had the chance to interview her and she gave some insight into her design aesthetic. “My background is in art, so I am very inspired by art galleries.” Furthermore, she aims to create clothing that is comfortable and not constricting. Ivy said, “It’s all about comfort, but at the same time I want to keep it sexy and beautiful.”

Ivy Higa was raised in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and began designing at the early age of thirteen. Upon receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Hawaii, Higa moved to New York City to pursue her career in fashion design. After graduating from Parsons the New School for Design, Ivy worked for Donna Karen and later Edward Wilkerson. In fall of 2008, the young designer decided to start her own line, naming it Ivy h. She hopes to begin a menswear collection in the near future.

A couple highlights from Ivy h. include: Silk gathered neck convertible blouse w/ kimono sleeve, Silk long convertible side tie jumpsuit, Cotton strapless corset convertible sash dress with side pleat detail, Silk convertible cowl sleeve blouse w/ tiered ribbon detail w/ tank, and Silk slouch pocket dress

- Megan McDonough

Socially Superlative

http://sociallysuperlative.com/2009/09/14/ivy-h-spring-2010-debut-collection/

Kahri: Spring 2010 Collection

Socially Superlative

September 12, 2009

Last night KahriAnne Kerr unveiled her Spring 2010 collection. Held at Webster Hall, the evening began with a photography exhibit by Art of Fashion. Guests were treated to an open bar in addition to free cupcakes from Cami’s Coco Treats.

Webster Hall proved to be a popular and well-suited venue for the designer to display her new collection. The dimly lit space gave off a jazzy feel, with comfortable leather couches and candlelit tables serving as decoration. The models emerged out of a small door on the elevated stage before stepping down to the crowd level, giving each audience member a perfect view of the garments.

Kerr’s collection was both unique and wearable. In an economy where consumers are hesitant to splurge on an outfit outside of their price range, designers are hit with the challenge of creating pieces that stand out enough for women to forget about their budget and make the purchase. Each of Kerr’s outfits has a feminine, youthful appeal. Her signature rocker aesthetic came through, adding the perfect touch to her designs.

Upon viewing the spring collection, I envisioned many of these outfits being worn in Miami or some other tropical location. Models wearing dresses in soft lavender, aqua, and white seemed to float across the wooden floor. Small lace hats were added to some outfits, while black zippers and belts completed other looks. The perfect combination of sex appeal, femininity, and class are shown in each of Kerr’s designs.

Originally from Iowa, KahriAnne discovered a love for art and creativity from an early age. With no formal training, Kerr taught herself how to sew. During her freshman year at BYU-Idaho, KahriAnne first displayed her designs on the runway. The fashion department was impressed, and awarded her the “Best Fashion Designer” and the “Most Promising Designer” that year.

After moving to NYC in 2003 for a program at FIT, Kerr started to sell her designs in local stores. Her clothing can be found in stores across the US, England, Scotland, and Israel, in addition to numerous online boutiques. Best known for her hip rock-inspired outfits, many celebrities can be seen sporting her look. After viewing her designs, I might just splurge myself!

- Megan McDonough

Socially Superlative

http://sociallysuperlative.com/2009/09/12/kahri-spring-2010-collection/

Odyn Vovk Spring/Summer 2010

September 10, 2009

Socially Superlative

It was a night of contrast at the Odyn Vovk Spring/Summer 2010 runway show. Kicking off Fashion Week Spring 2010 early on September 9th, 2009, the show was held at St. Marks Church in the East Village where black was the color of choice for the many men and women eagerly awaiting entrance into the venue.

From the view outside, one may have assumed there was a funeral procession about to take place. In fact, an elderly man sitting on a nearby bench was quite surprised when I informed him that the line was for a designer’s new collection.

At first unsure as to whether St. Marks was an appropriate venue choice for this collection, my doubts were quickly washed away. As guests took their seats, the lights went down and calming Celtic music filled the air. For a brief moment, one may have forgotten they were at an Odyn Vovk show, and actually thought they were at a religious service.

The room was quiet, peaceful, and calm. Once the lights turned on, the first model made his way down the runway, dressed in an elephant hide and denim vest and canvas slit overlook trousers. The blank white walls inside the church emphasized the dark colors and dramatic designs displayed in Sherbanenko’s collection.

The overall vibe was very street savvy, with layered tops, cape-like jackets, and loose fitting pants. Chains, slicked-back hair, dark make-up, and body tattoos completed the unique gothic esthetic of Odyn Vovk. Despite the messy appearance of many of the garments, the construction of the pieces were noticeable well-done. Mixing leather, cotton, and suede pieces, all done in dark colored fabrics, highlighted the extraordinary detail in each garment.

Everyday trends such as wearing a baseball cap, necklace, leggings, and jeans served as integral parts of the overall design concept. Each piece in the collection was dramatic, yet very wearable. Fans of Odyn Vovk seem to appreciate being able to dress in clothes that are not only comfortable to wear, but self-expressive. Several audience members agreed that each piece was relatable to an everyday look. The outfits all had an overall dramatic appearance; yet individual touches allow wearers to make the clothes reflect their own personal style.

The theme for Odyn Vovk’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection was ”Confined Translation.” The clothes aim to depict past events in relation to the urban and environmental influences seen in nature. Odyn Vovk is a Ukrainian work meaning “One Wolf.” As stated in the program, the name reflects “cunning, wisdom, searching, dreams, magic, transformation, death, rebirth, and protection.”

Austin Sherbanenko, the Los Angeles based designer, is very up-and coming in the fashion world. Still a young brand, Odyn Vovk already has a faithful fan base and strong following. From the positive reactions from his show last night, it looks like Sherbanenko is on the right path for more recognition in the fashion industry.

- Megan McDonough

Pieces on the runway included:

Black Sheep & Prodigal Sons
Goatskin Leather shirt
Buffalo Canvas bakpac
Combo calf-hide and denim jacket
Nascha painted vintage ivory and white lamb neckpiece
Waxed kangaroo leather shirt
Hand-dyed cure tee
Tiska vintage ivory pigskin breastplate
Racer waxed calf vest

Socially Superlative

http://sociallysuperlative.com/2009/09/10/odyn-vovk-springsummer-2010/

Tiffen Steadicam Sponsors Julian Chojnacki, SOC Workshop

Tiffen Steadicam Sponsors Julian Chojnacki, SOC Workshop

Tiffen Steadicam is proud to sponsor Julian Chojnacki, SOC for his workshop in 3D technology on Saturday July 11, 2009. Chojnacki, who recently finished working on The Final Destination as both the steadicam operator and camera operator, will be discussing techniques and tricks of the trade in working with this emerging technology.

Chojnacki actually learned and developed his skill as a steadicam operator from its inventor, Garret Brown. Since then he has worked on numerous films and television series including Final Destination, Inconceivable, Rebound, and the popular Nash Bridges.

Hilary Araujo, Vice President of Marketing for Tiffen believes their product is a perfect fit for this workshop. “If you look at the list of films Julian has been involved in as both a steadicam and camera operator, it is important that we support these efforts. This is a wonderful time to bring our product forward.”

Tiffen’s commitment to student filmmakers is another prime motivation for Tiffen’s sponsorship.

“This workshop is perfect for students who are aspiring film and video makers and we want to support their efforts,” Araujo said.

Tiffen will even be distributing complimentary Steadicam DVD’s to the first fifty sign-ups for the workshop. Kim Welch, founder of Welch Integrated, Inc. and Studentfilmmakers Magazine, is thrilled to have Tiffen as a sponsor.

“The quality of Tiffen Steadicam is top notch and widely used within the Motion Picture Industry. I’m excited to have them on board with this event,” Welch said. Julian Chojnacki’s educational session on 3D will be an all inclusive workshop. Commencing at 9:30am for a half-hour networking opportunity with Chojnacki, attendees will then participate in the two hour workshop, followed by an hour for questions.

Julian will be discussing a wide range of topics including how we see in 3D and how the camera reproduces the images. He will also cover the process of making alterations to a film and the limitations with shooting in 3D. He will even display images from Final Destination and share some of his experience working on the production set.

StudentFilmmakers Magazing
Welch Integrated, Inc.
http://www.studentfilmmakers.com/news/Tiffen-Steadicam-Sponsors-Julian-Chojnacki-_SOC-Workshop.shtml

Julian Chojnacki, Camera Operator on Final Destination, speaks on the future of 3D

Julian Chojnacki, Camera Operator on Final Destination, speaks on the future of 3D

StudentFilmmakers is proud to present Julian Chojnacki, SOC as he hosts an exciting and educational workshop on all aspects of 3D in movie production on Saturday July 11, 2009. An active member of the Society of Cinematographers, Julian has extensive experience working with numerous talented and accomplished Directors in the Motion Picture industry. Some of his credits include Final Destination, Inconceivable, Rebound, and the popular Nash Bridges.

While serving as both steadicam operator and camera operator on The Final Destination (2009), Julian has developed a valuable perspective on the use of 3D in films and believes this technique is here to stay.

“3D films place the audience right in the story. The process and costs are becoming more reasonable. 3D is here to stay,” Chojnacki said.

This educational 3D workshop will be held on Saturday, July 11, at the StudentFilmmakers Magazine headquarters, 1133 Broadway, New York, New York 10010. Beginning at 9:30am for a networking session, attendees will get the chance to speak one on one with Julian before the three hour session begins. There will also be a one hour Question and Answer period, where students and other workshop attendees are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to 3D and cinematography.

Julian will be discussing a wide range of topics including how we see in 3D and how the camera reproduces the images. He will also cover the process of making alterations to a film and the limitations with shooting in 3D. He will even display images from Final Destination and share some of his experience working on the production set.

Kim Welch, founder of Welch Integrated, Inc. and StudentFilmmakers Magazine has produced several workshops in the past and is excited to make these opportunities once again assessable to student and professional film and video makers.

“These training workshops are at the heart of our mission – to train, educate, and inspire filmmakers to become successful in this competitive industry,” Welch said. Registration for this event is online at StudentFilmmakers Workshops . Regular admission is $55, with special discounts offered for students and early sign-ups. The first fifty people registered will receive a complimentary Steadicam Training DVD!

StudentFilmmakers Magazine
Welch Integrated, Inc.
http://www.studentfilmmakers.com/news/Julian-Chojnacki_-Camera-Operator-on-Final-Destination_-speaks-on-the-future-of-3D.shtml