Meet Simonetta Lein, The Wishmaker

There are online “influencers,” then there are people to strive to make a positive influence on the lives of others, here and now. As a Top 100 Influencer, and the founder of the WishWall Foundation, Simonetta Lein is both. She’ll soon be heading to New York Fashion Week, even as she prepares for her new show on the FNL Network in conjunction with Amazon TV.

We spoke with Simonetta to find out a little about how she got her start, what she’s doing now, and where she plans to go next.

Q: Tell us about your background. Did you always love fashion?

I am a Made in Italy girl. Fashion and style are in my blood, and that piece of Italy follows me wherever I go.

One summer when I was 16 helped my parents with one of their frequent seminars. People from all over the world would gather at my parents’ cultural center, and one day a Greek woman told me: you should be a model. I never thought about it before that moment. I quickly started studying how to properly walk on stage, how to use the right makeup, and to be always at the ready.

I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been selected by maestro Bruno Oliviero for an exhibit that he centered on me, and to have posed for the legendary Giovanni Gastel. These projects brought me to the NYFW catwalks and to Madison Square Garden for the incredible fashion designer Richie Rich. I am truly blessed.


These projects brought me to the NYFW catwalks for Richie Rich

Q: What other pursuits or passions do you have?

I am passionate about mentoring women and girls. I support them through my blog and my activity as a chapter leader supporting the SGI international Buddhist activities. I love to foster the future leaders that our world so desperately needs.


I am passionate about mentoring women and girls

Q: How did you get your start as a fashion influencer?

I actually started as a former Vanity Fair columnist. I have learned a lot about the real work behind an article, a video, a radio interview (as I was also hosting a radio show with the vice director of Vanity Fair Italy).

I started as a Vanity Fair columnist

I was trained to always strive for quality. I then added my millennial factor, my innate knack for social media, and that is how it all started. I had gained initial fame because of my first novel published by Mondadori (Italy’s leading publishing house), my work on Vanity Fair, and radio shows.

When I moved to the U.S. all these factors and a strong determination to define my brand — post after post — brought me to be considered one of the top 100 influencers in the world.


Q: Tell us about the WishWall Foundation, and how you became The Wishmaker? What does the Foundation do?

The Wishwall Foundation was founded in September 2015 with the intention of giving a voice to dreams. The online Wishwall displays a different wish every day that people from all over the world send us. The Wishwall In Every City is bringing a wall of hope to every city, making it both a permanent form of art and the granting of a deserving and impactful wish. Please go to www.thewishwall.org and write your wish to inspire others.


The Wishwall Foundation was created to give a voice to dreams

Q: You’re also a designer and actor. Tell us about your other projects.

I designed a clothing line by Shahida Parides. I chose her pieces according to my sense of style and also created a line of scarves signed by yours truly. 

My career as an actress has shifted more toward television and I am about to launch a TV show distributed by FNL Network through Amazon TV.


Q: Who are your heroes or top icons?

My hero is Daisaku Ikeda, a man who never stops inspiring others. One of my icons is Lady Diana, a woman full of charm and class that tried very firmly to bring down social stigmas and used her power to change society. She was fundamental in drafting legislation that completely banned the use of land mines; shook hands with a person affected by HIV when people still thought that you could catch AIDS by only touching those affected; would personally talk with the homeless, and tried to find a solution to the situation.

I try my very best, one wish at a time, to change someone’s life. I owe this to those who had been trying hard before me.


I try my very best to change someone’s life

Q: What does it mean to be a fashion icon? Does it come with any responsibilities or pitfalls?

It means that you are looked up to for your sense of style, your class, and innovation. It also comes with a lot of responsibility. In my opinion, the external facet goes hand in hand with a commitment to inspiring and educating. I have been nominated many times as a fashion icon, and each time my commitment to doing better gets stronger.


 
Q: What advice can you give to others who want to help inspire people?

Do it. Start with what you see around you and try to change it. Document what you do, as we live in a visual era, as I strongly believe that good messages and positive actions have to be seen.

Whenever you do a post on social media always think that with your words and images someone can get some kind of inspiration. Put others before yourself and you will get inspired first.


Put others before yourself and you will get inspired

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Learn More

thewishwall.org
instagram.com/simonettalein

With love,

FWO

New York Fashion Week: A Guide

Yep, New York Fashion Week is officially here! (And if you want to catch a sneak preview, check out the amazing picture of PH5 Spring 2018, above. Story coming soon.)

The streets are already buzzing with amazing street style and the hum that comes with editors, influencers, and buyers flying in for Fashion Week. As Carrie Bradshaw once said, “Every year the women of New York leave the past behind and look forward to the future … this is known as Fashion Week.”

I turned to several industry experts for their words of wisdom and I have a feeling you’ll love what they have to say. Here’s everything you need to know about NYFW:

What is Fashion Week? Why does it matter?

“It’s a valuable opportunity for American designers to enter the public consciousness and become better known,” says Pablo Starr, publisher and president of Fashion Week Online and RNWY.

Indeed, Fashion Week is an industry event for buyers, reporters, editors, etc. It’s full of shows, presentations and events where top designers showcase their latest collections. The shows are timed so that editors and magazines can create editorials around the new trends and the season’s must-have items — and also where buyers place their orders.

“NYFW matters because it is the best possible way for brands to get out there and show the world their vision for the company, the line, and the collection in one day,” says Adriana Marie, founder of AMCONYC, a top NYC production house.

“Runway shows provide emerging brands all of that, and so much more — including the chance to be seen and discovered, without paying the 6-figure price tag the more known designers pay.”

Where is NYFW?

NYFW used to be held at large tents in Bryant Park and then moved to Lincoln Center. Now — much as in Paris — the events are scattered all over town. Designers choose the venue based on their aesthetic, the amount of creative control they want to have, and budget.

With more than 130 shows on the schedule, you could easily find yourself running all over the city!

Does every city have their own Fashion Week?

It really depends on the city. There are about 40 fashion weeks held in different countries around the world each year. Fashion Week’s “Big Four” are located in New York, London, Milan, and Paris, with each city known for a different style. Some designers show in the same city every year, while others jump among the Big Four.

Very roughly, New York is known for ready-to-wear; London for edgier, avant-garde designs; Milan for its over-the-top looks; and Paris for haute couture.

When did Fashion Week start?

New York Fashion Week was started by fashion publicist Elenor Lamber in 1943. She wanted to give American designers the opportunity to showcase their work and draw attention from Paris during the height of World War II. Back then, it was referred to as “Press Week” and was held at The Plaza Hotel.

When is Fashion Week? And didn’t it just happen?

If it feels like it just happened, that’s probably because it did.

Each of the Big Four holds a fall/winter collection show in February and spring/summer collections show in September. The collections are shown about six months ahead of time so that buyers can place their orders and have the pieces arrive in time for the new season.

The collections are shown about six months ahead of time

This season, NYFW runs from Thursday, September 7th through September 14th.

There are various other runway shows that happen throughout the course of the year, but fashion people are referring to the biannual shows when they mention “Fashion Week.”

How long are the shows?

They’re surprisingly short. The majority of runway shows last 7-10 minutes. Running behind? Here’s a little Fashion Week Online tip for you: a majority of the shows start 20 minutes late!

Chris Lavish, Fashion Week Online’s social media director, says, “It’s many weeks of preparation for a pivotal 15 mins in which the brand can excel or fail.”

What is a show actually like?

After the aforementioned schmoozing and battling the crowds to get to your seat, the lights dim and music starts to pump through the speakers. Not all runways are linear, in order to make more room for VIPs and industry insiders.

No matter what the runway looks like though, there are always at least 15 photographers standing on the risers or “the pit” snapping away at every outfit. There are typically 30 to 40 outfits or looks that come down the runway and at the end of the show, the designer comes out for a final wave.

And just like that, the show is over. The crowds rush out, selfies are taken, and the amazing people behind the shows scramble to get set up for the next one.

Marie describes it as “15 minutes of fame,” while Lavish deems it “luxurious.”

Who goes to the shows?

Most shows are invitation-only and tickets are reserved for those in the industry. (There are, however, some open-to-the-public shows.) This means that you’ll see buyers, industry influencers, friends or clients of designers and fashion editors. You’ll also see a slew of celebrities in the front row.

How do you get invited?

Reach out to the publicists or public relations team for any brand that you’d love to see. The key is to reach out at least a month in advance, as that’s when the teams are just starting to put together their invite lists.

To raise your chances of getting into shows, email the publicists as early as three months in advance to start developing a relationship with them.

The fashion industry is all about relationships, and having a good rapport with a brand’s core team will make all the difference when it comes to Fashion Week.

What should I do besides go to shows?

The possibilities are really endless. Fashion editor LaShauna Williams recommends, “Try restaurants! You can travel the world in New York City’s cuisine offerings. Italian! Jamaican! Indian! Chinese! Japanese! And the list goes on.”

Can’t make a show? Try emailing the PR teams of the brands you really love and scheduling a visit to their showroom. This is a great opportunity to take your online relationships offline as well!

Try scheduling a visit to their showroom

Email your Instagram friends and set up a brunch so you can finally meet face-to-face. Ask around and figure out what presentations and after parties are around.

“Go to pop-up shops, fundraisers, and attend free lectures if you want to learn more about the business of fashion,” Starr also suggests.

What should I wear?

Finally, the question we’ve all been waiting for. Are you ready for the answer? It’s a good one — just wear whatever you’d like.

I’ve seen everything from hoodies and sneakers to ball gowns and 6-inch stilettos. Fashion Week is all about setting trends and breaking barriers, so there’s no better time to pull out your craziest ‘fits.

“If you want to be photographed, be bold in your dress,” recommends Starr. “If you’re coming to work, wear comfortable shoes and bring extra power for your phone and laptop!”

Says Williams: “I know that, as women, we gravitate toward heels, and I don’t discourage it! But, do carry flats with you. Even the best heel walkers can get run down during this week. You’re running from LES to Murray Hill to SoHo and you don’t want to look haggard.”

Even the best heel walkers can get run down during this week

What should I bring with me to the shows?

Fashion Week can be crazy, so it’s much better to be safe than sorry. I would bring the following:

– Flats that you can put in your purse. There are few things less attractive and generally uncomfortable to watch as a person with blisters hobbling along the streets.

– A fully-charged phone and a portable charger so you can snap and Instagram your way through the shows, after parties and showroom meetings.

– Business cards are a must.

– Lipstick. This is one of the easiest ways to change your look and adds a bit of pop to your outfit.

I can’t go. :’-( How can I still participate?

More than 50 designers will live stream their shows through Fashion Week Online, so you can still watch them no matter where you are.

Follow along with the #NYFW hashtag and you’ll be in the loop of everything and anything happening.

Be sure to also check out #LTF, #MFW and #PFW. When in doubt, keep a close eye on Fashion Week Online for everything you need to know.

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Greta Constantine: NYFW Spring 2018

Represented by Sydney Reising.

Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong, the “Jersey boys of Toronto,” debuted their Spring 2018 Greta Constantine collection at New York Fashion Week yesterday, with ’80s and ’70s colors mixed with Ziggy Stardust shoulder pads.

The collection showcased their mastery of color, with clever combinations that were sparkly, glamorous, sporty … and always fun.

 
Greta Constantine Spring 2018

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The new collection, shown at Pier29 Studios, made use of high-octane hues and second-skin sequins in rose, sea blue, gold, silver, and black. The collection also showcased boyfriend tuxedo pants, track suits, and ’80s glam. Angular references also appeared in a sequined jumpsuit whose severe proportions evoked a nod to Grace Jones.

Elsewhere, gathered strips of tulle afford a graphic feel to the asymmetrical hemline of a V-neck sheath and the sleeve of a one-shoulder mini.

ABOUT GRETA CONSTANTINE

CAFA 2016 Womenswear Designer of the Year winner Greta Constantine is an accessible luxury line of ready-to-wear womenswear based in Toronto, Canada. Designers Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong, considered the “jersey boys of Toronto,” have rapidly accumulated a clientele comprised of international socialites and celebrities alike. The label itself is derived from the combination of the name of Stephen’s mother, Greta, with that of Kirk’s grandfather, Constantine. The pair works together in their Toronto area studio — conceptualizing, exploring, and challenging the fashions of today for the women of tomorrow.

The inevitable product of their focus on the female form is design emboldened by sexuality. Yet sexuality and femininity more generally, are socially constructed in a dichotomous manner: ladylike or seductive; prim and pretty or body-skimming and revealing. However, for Pickersgill and Wong, these dichotomies mustn’t be treated as mutually exclusive properties. In the elegantly seductive world of Greta Constantine, it’s not surprising to see a backless top paired with a flared, midi-length skirt or a boxy, ruffle hem sleeveless dress that barely grazes mid-thigh in a shade of salmon, no less. And while the dresses themselves may be constricting to the female form, there’s something truly freeing about wearing a piece that is equal parts matron and vixen. After all, sometimes you just want to be both.

Celebrity fans of Greta Constantine include Jessica Biel and Karlie Kloss. Greta Constantine has appeared in British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Essence, Fashion Magazine, Flare Magazine, Glamour, InStyle, Marie Claire, Maxim Magazine, Us Weekly, WWD, and more.

Greta Constantine is can be found at Lord & Taylor, Kleinfeld, and many more.

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Learn More

gretaconstantine.com

With love,

FWO

Radical Transparency in Fashion. It’s Closer Than You Think.

What if it was easy to know where, when, and how a garment was made, to determine how ethically it was created? Welcome to the Good On You, a new fashion app that plans to change the way we shop.

As we head into New York Fashion Week, we caught up with Good On You founders Sandra Capponi and Gordon Renouf to learn more about how this app will help create a happier, better world through the power of transparency.

 
Good On You: App

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Download the app here.
 
 

Q: Why Good On You?

 
CAPPONI: For a long time I’d been thinking about the impact people have on the world, the good and the bad, especially in big business.

I’ve always loved fashion, but the stories I kept hearing about what’s going on behind the scenes of major labels made me start to question if I was comfortable wearing clothes without knowing how they were made.

the stories I kept hearing made me start to question if I was comfortable wearing clothes without knowing how they were made

I spent many years working in the corporate sector, trying push the social responsibility of businesses from within. But more recently I started to think about the responsibility I have as an individual, and the power that each of us has to change things for the better just by the everyday choices we make — including the clothes we buy.

RENOUF: Our vision is for a world where consumer choices drive brands to be sustainable and fair.

We know that most people care about doing the right thing by the planet, other people, and animals —- provided their own legitimate needs are met. We empower people to easily take account of the issues they care about when they shop.

We know that most people care about doing the right thing

People want access to easy to use, ethical information when they are shopping — whether online or in store.

They also want to discover new brands that are doing things in a more sustainable way.

They want to discover new brands that are doing things in a sustainable way

CAPPONI: Research tells us that most of us want to make more ethical choices when we shop — so long as it’s easy! But right now it’s just too hard to know the impact of brands on workers, the environment, and animals.

The Good On You app gives the information we need right at our fingertips to make better decisions that match our values. Shoppers can use the app to see how their favorite brands rate and discover new brands that do better on the issues they care about.

We realize that it’s not just about the ethics when it comes to fashion. At the end of the day many of us still care a lot about price and of course style! But Good On You helps you find more ethical options so looking good doesn’t have to come at the expense of people and the planet.

We make it easy, so looking good doesn’t have to come at the expense of others

Q: Why is sustainable fashion so important?

 
RENOUF: Many of the important social and environmental problems of the world today are ultimately driven by our shopping choices. What gets made and sold in large quantities is determined by whether or not we as consumers want to buy. When we empower shoppers to act on their values, we can influence what gets bought and so ultimately the way our clothes are made.

we can all influence the way clothes are made

Globally, one in six people (80 per cent of them women) work in the apparel sector, where labor abuses and factory disasters are common. A $2.5 trillion industry, fashion is also one of the most polluting in the world. It’s responsible for 24 per cent of the world’s pesticide use and is a major contributor to climate change and water pollution.

CAPPONI: I imagine a future where people everywhere are using Good On You as second nature to make shopping decisions based on the things that matter most to them — from discovering the latest trends and finding a bargain buy to making sure no women or children were exploited in the making of their clothes. And ultimately, fashion brands are totally transparent about how they make their products while living up to the ethical standards that each of us expect.

Q: The Good On You app helps users know the impact of brands, and makes suggestions for better rated brands, but how does it have an impact on the issues that you and your users care about?

RENOUF: We get a lot of app users writing in or posting on social media saying they are so grateful for the app, that they wouldn’t shop without it, and that it helps them find new ethical and sustainable brands to replace brands they discovered are not meeting their expectations on sustainability issues. It’s a key part of our approach that we empower people to do what they already want to do, but find too challenging.

As we empower more and more shoppers to make sustainable choices, brands are taking notice. More and more brands have contacted us to ensure that we are aware if all the things they are doing right — to ensure get the highest rating they deserve.

brands are taking notice

We’re not the only organization pressuring fashion brands to do better on all or some of these issues, but we aim to be the one that offers the most practical day-to-day assistance to the largest number of shoppers, and for many brands we offer practical guidance on how they can do better.

A focus on impact is at the core of what we do. We’re not here to help the most activist two per cent of people find the absolute best strategies and super ethical brands. We’re here to empower a majority of shoppers to act on their underlying belief that they should do what they can to make the world a better place, while also meeting their own needs. Sometimes that means choosing a brand better than average on sustainability rather than one that’s perfect.

Q: What are the issues looked at in your brand rating methodology? And how do you research brands?

CAPPONI: Good On You understands that “ethical” means different things to different people.

The Good On You brand rating system looks at three main issues that we know are important to shoppers — how a brand treats its workers, the environment and animals. We take into account publicly available information from more than 50 certifications schemes and standards systems together with the company’s reported data. We present that information in a simple, easy to understand 5 tier rating, from 1 (We Avoid) to 5 (Great). Then its up to you as the consumer to decide what matters to you most and how you want to act on that information.

We understand that “ethical” means different things to different people

Q: Have you had any feedback from brands included on Good On You? And on the other hand, what can you do for the most sustainable brands?

CAPPONI: Yes, brands often contact us wanting to know how they can improve their rating. In some instances, we find that brands simply are not communicating to the public about all the good that they do and we guide them on how to be more transparent. In other instances brands work with us to determine how they can improve their practices to avoid harm.

There are many examples where we’re supported and collaborated with brands to improve their transparency and business operations to be more sustainable and fair.

We also aim to be transparent ourselves, publishing details of our brands rating methodology and welcoming feedback from brands and other industry experts.

Of course, some brands will inevitably not be happy with their rating — but we believe it’s our job to back the shopper’s right to know!

RENOUF: We see Good On You as the connecting the large and growing sustainable fashion shopping community with the sometimes hard to find brands that are making an effort. Where a way for shoppers to find the brands that meet all their needs, and for brands to find their true audience.

Q: When all’s said and done, what sort of impact do you want Good On You to achieve?

RENOUF: Radical transparency for shoppers! One of our advisers suggested this analogy: imagine you have a super power that means you can know everything about a product that is relevant to you just by looking at it. Add to that the capacity to know and understand what all that information means for you.

This is not possible right now, but there is a broad array of movements and technological innovations that will make it more or less possible sooner or later.

Good On You is using present-day tech to compile data and present it to users, either directly through the app or by making it available to brands and retailers. But right now that’s just the tiny tip of the iceberg. Well-handled and supported by new technological and social developments, this could lead to real change in the power balance between consumers, their fundamental values and the businesses they buy from.

Q: Good On You launched in North America in 2017. How does that impact what you do and how can North Americans start using Good On You?

CAPPONI: Now, more than ever, people around the world want to know what’s going on behind the scenes of big business — including the fast fashion industry. And North Americans are at the forefront of this shift in consumer sentiment. Research tells us that the majority of Americans say they stop buying from brands they believe to be unethical.

people want to know what’s going on behind the scenes of big business

At Good On You, we’ve had great success in Australia and New Zealand over the past 18 months. But in order to really have an impact, we need to scale and build on our community of conscious consumers around the world.

That’s why we’re really excited about launching Good On You in North America as the next important step to achieving our goals — it’s free for download now on iOS and Android.

Q: What’s next?

 
CAPPONI: More brands, more users, more positive change!

First up, we’re focused on rating many more brands so that Good On You users can access ethical ratings on any retailer they might want to buy from and discover new, better alternatives.

Then our plan is to keep spreading Good On You around the world so we continue to grow and empower the community of conscious shoppers and truly shift the face of the global fashion industry to do good, not cause harm, for people and the planet.

Q: Finally, what else can shoppers do to act on their desire to addresses some of the problems in the fashion industry?

RENOUF: There’s lots of great sources of information like the new Fashion Revolution Podcast, the Project Just site out of New York, and even our Good On You blog. Also check out options like the Fashion Hope clothing drive starting this month (fashionhope.org/clothingdrive) — they take your unwanted clothes — avoiding landfill in the process — and use them to empower women who are victims of trafficking.

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Learn More

Good On You
Fashion Hope

With love,

FWO

Fashion Without Borders: A NYFW Love Story

New York is a melting pot. So maybe it’s not so surprising that New York Fashion Week has become one,
too.

Although NYFW is still the domain of some big American mega-names, such as Michael Kors or Calvin Klein, the field is widening, and the fact is that no one should take market supremacy for granted. Especially in a city (and still, mostly, a country) that embraces energy from beyond its borders.

no one should take market supremacy for granted

Globalization may be taking some small hits from frightened people around the word who want to remain in their little, imaginary tribes, but the truth is that globalization is inescapable. We have so much to give each other. And the fact is, the more we actually meet one another, the more similar we realize we are.

So maybe it’s also not so surprising that the people who complain about the NYFW schedule being “bloated” are mainly the status quo, who expect things to remain ever the same, and ever in their favor.

If only life had ever worked that way. So possibly it’s a bit ironic that some American designers attempt to flee globalization by showing in Paris, and run into the arms of globalization again.

Fortunately, the world has more than enough designers who are interested in being seeing for the first time. And thanks to producers like Art Hearts Fashion, Style Fashion Week, AMCONYC, FDLA, and IMG, international designers are traveling from their home countries in record numbers to show at New York Fashion Week.

According to the The Riviere Agency, who are handling a number of shows from NYFW: First Stage (among others): “Fashion has helped create bridges among designers for group showings, and dissolved barriers by offering a platform to celebrate their vision of beauty with the world. It has allowed us to submit ourselves to a designer’s perspective and see art through their eyes. While political and social issues have begun to shelter some views, platforms like fashion week have become monumental for international designers.”

platforms like fashion week have become monumental

This season, some international group shows to look out for include Indonesian Diversity (Group Show) and Fashion Palette (Australian Designer Group Show).

Other individual designers such as Galtiscopio, Vaishali S., Dan Liu, and Runa Ray are quickly becoming well-known fashion names.

These designers demonstrate that there are no borders in fashion.

Trends evolve, but the importance of fashion remains the same. More importantly, political vagaries and egos come and go, but the importance of people remains the same.

If we don’t stand together, we fall apart.

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With love,

FWO

8 Australian Designers Coming to NYFW

Represented by The Riviere Agency.

Eight Australian fashion designers are gearing up to show on the incredible stage that is New York Fashion Week. On September 12th, their gorgeous Spring/Summer 2018 collections will walk the catwalk with cameras flashing and industry members mesmerized.

It is so important to bring the unique flair that Australian fashion holds to the runways of NYFW. With an incredible take on ready-to-wear, nobody can make streetwear, beachwear, cocktail and the like look as effortlessly gorgeous as those down under.

What do the designers have to say?

“We are absolutely thrilled to be a part of the 2017 Fashion Palette New York Fashion Week! It has been a rollercoaster so far in the preparations and planning and we have been so overwhelmed with all the support of everyone involved during this time. To be a part of such a prestigious event and being able to connect with not only other Australian Designers but also international Designers, Media and Buyers is a great opportunity and one not to be missed.” — Ashlee Lauren

“We have built our brand awareness and presence Inline image 2“both here in Australia and international around the world. US Market is now at the top of our target list for establishing new stockiest and gain the hearts of the US market. We are extremely excited to be participating and showing our new collection on the runway for FPNYFW.” — Bronx and Banco

“We expect this will help drive consumers to our hundreds of loyal boutiques throughout the United States and to our major stockists such as Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Revolve and Anthropologie. The runway capsule which we will be showing embodies, strong feminine, wearable shapes in luxe fabrications paired with unique detailing, all of which have since become key to the recognizable hand-writing of the Elliatt brand.” — Elliatt

“Flare Street’s designs are for those who aren’t just fiercely fashionable but also have a sense of life and individuality. I want people to feel empowered and as though they are expressing themselves in their truest way. Showing at NYFW allows Flare Street to reach a whole new scale, introduce us to a variety of people in a new market and all through such a global, iconic platform. We’re so eager to see what the future holds!” — Flare Street

“This is going to be such a wonderful opportunity and learning experience for local designers to expose their brands to international media, buyers and network with overseas industry insiders. We are definitely looking forward to our time on the runway, as we’ve created a entirely new collection just 5weeks prior to D-day. It’s going to be amazing!” — Haus of Song

“Words cannot describe how excited we are to be showcasing the new MB The Label collection especially on an international level. Will be such an amazing experience. We are so ready to take on NYFW!” — MB the Label

“Our SS18 collection has been inspired by the essence of a summer vacation; sultry dresses and sets under the stars with a cocktail in hand. The collection embodies dusky sunset hues and a flirty style that brings a summery aesthetic to the range. Ultra-feminine vibes are seen throughout the collection with the use of exclusive prints, ruffles and the details.” — Sabo Luxe

“Not only is New York one of my favorite cities personally, New York is the pinnacle of Fashion week and we are very excited to make our international debut at NYFW.” — Torannce

Follow along on social @fashionpalette.

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Learn More

fashionpalette.com.au
NYFW schedule

With love,

FWO

NYFW: The Shows’ Fashion-Forward Calendar

IMG’s NYFW: The Shows is the highest-profile series of events during New York Fashion Week. Owned by WME-IMG, it’s the successor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week New York and also includes the more avant-garde MADE, and now NYFW First Stage.

Of the “Big 4” fashion weeks, New York has proven itself to be the largest, most competitive, and far-ranging.

“If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere,” goes the famed 1977 John Kander song. So it is with New York Fashion Week, in the minds of many designers from around the world.

With such a plethora of shows to choose from on another very full schedule, we thought we’d offer a closer look at some of the shows to look out for from IMG: arguably the most prestigious stage of the season.

NYFW: The Shows Designers to Watch

A number of designers will showcasing at NYFW: The Shows for the first time. Some of them (as in Colovos), are no strangers to the fashion community, but will be presenting first-ever runway shows.

Read on to learn more:

Beaufille – This Toronto-based women’s ready-to-wear and accessories brand was created by sisters Chloé and Parris Gordon. They are showing at Skylight Clarkson Square for the first time, following their show presented by MADE at Industia in February 2017.

Bevza – One of the most well regarded Ukrainian fashion labels to emerge on the global fashion scene, Svitlana Bevza’s name has become synonymous with simplicity and all-white collections. She applied with a recommendation letter and personal phone call from an editor at VOGUE.

Claudia Li – The 2017 international Woolmark Prize finalist and former design director at JW Anderson is presenting at NYFW for the first time.

Colovos – The husband and wife duo who are the former creative directors of Helmut Lang are presenting their first-ever runway show!

Rochambeau – Laurence Chandler and Joshua Cooper launched the label as an outlet for creative expression and artistic collaboration in men’s fashion. This season they will present a collection of both men’s and women’s fashion for the first time during NYFW: The Shows.

Returning Designers

These designers are a mix of established names and top-tier brands who you’ve likely seen before at NYFW: The Shows.

The lineup include some of the most anticipated names of the season. As in the above, many of these will live stream, as well.

alice + olivia by Stacey Bendet
Anna Sui
Badgley Mischka
Bibhu Mohapatra
Brock Collection
Cushnie et Ochs
Desigual
Jeremy Scott
Jonathan Simkhai
Marchesa
Naeem Khan
Prabal Gurung
Tadashi Shoji
Vivienne Tam
Zang Toi

Off-Site Shows

These shows won’t happen at Skylight Clarkson, but their shows are still “must sees” during New York Fashion Week. Locations range from Pier 59 to Spring and Industria Studios, to various other locations around town.

Brandon Maxwell
Christian Siriano
Cinq A Sept
Cynthia Rowley
Dennis Basso
Eugenia Kim
Phillipp Plein
Tanya Taylor
TOME
Zimmermann

Diversity and Inclusion

NYFW: The Shows is embracing the inclusiveness movement, in addition to its already varied roster of designers. This season, they will host plus-size brands Torrid and Addition Elle.

Both brands will showcase women’s ready-to-wear and lingerie at NYFW: The Shows for the first time next month.

MADE

But what of MADE, NYFW: The Shows’ edgier, more adventurous half?

MADE has evolved to become a year-round platform that supports emerging designers in a variety of ways, from bringing them to new markets, to connecting them to new industries, to building direct-to-consumer offerings like Shop Small at MADE LA.

The following designers will be presented by MADE at NYFW: The Shows:

Barragán
GCDS
Kim Shui
Maison the Faux
Priscavera
Parsons MFA
The Blonds

MADE Designers to Watch

Barragán – The edgy, ever-evolving New York brand — inspired by pop culture, the Internet, and the ’90s — will be showing for its second season at MADE.

GCDS – This Italian streetwear label (who also appear on the cover of RNWY Issue 1) will be showing in New York for the first time. They will appear at MADE following the success of their major men’s show in Milan.

Maison the Faux – This Dutch creative studio is known for its out-of-the-norm shows and presentations, and will be showing their third season at NYFW presented by MADE.

Priscavera – New York womenswear designer showing for the first time at NYFW presented by MADE; quickly becoming a favorite of fashion editors.

The Blonds – New York luxury women’s fashion label and costume creators dressing the likes of Beyoncé, Madonna, and many others. The brand is known for its glamorous bejeweled pieces and fabulous collaborations with the likes of Barbie & America’s Next Top Model.

First Stage

Infusions of young, and/or international energy and creativity into New York are nothing new.

Now IMG has a new platform created to nurture and grow this talent, in New York Fashion Week: First Stage.

The new offering from IMG will feature a unique collection of established and emerging international designers, creating a cultural hub for global fashion fans in the heart of New York’s vibrant downtown fashion scene.

The new offering features a unique collection of established and emerging international designers

The events are taking place September 7 – 10 at The Gallery at the Dream Downtown.

New York Fashion Week: First Stage collections will include:

Bella Ivory
Cindy Monteiro
David Ferreira
Galtiscopio
Irina Vitjaz
Indonesian Diversity
Just In Case
Kur Collection
Nina Tiari
Runa Ray
Sechs Element
Talisha White
Vaishali S.

NYFW: First Stage Designers to Watch

Indonesian Diversity (Indonesia) – Indonesia Fashion Gallery is a multi-brand store from Indonesia that features local designer collections and assists designers in expanding into new markets around the world. At First Stage, Indonesian Fashion Gallery will host Indonesian Diversity, an event showcasing five luxury ready-to-wear designers and one accessory designer from Indonesia: Barli Asmara, Catherine Njoo, Dian Pelangi, Doris Dorothea, Melia Wijaya and Vivi Zubaedi.

Irina Vitjaz (Austria) – As a young prodigy, Vitjaz was inspired by her grandfather’s profession as a notable tailor to later on explore the fashion industry on her own. Her fashion muses come from all over the world – exhausting both elegant and extravagant designs. The Haute Couture Russian-born Austrian designer uses delicate fabrics and matching hats to highlight the silhouette of the female body in her pieces.

Just In Case (Taiwan) – Just In Case designer Yu-Ying Chou has quickly risen through the fashion ranks in China, winning awards such as the 2015 ELLE New Talented Award of Taiwan and the 2016 Men’s Uno Next Asian Top 5 Fashion Designers. Deemed the most rebellious designer by ellefashionnow.com, Chou often incorporates both Western and Chinese elements into his collection, providing at-times a conflicting, yet unique esthetic.

KÛR (Sri Lanka) – In 2009, native Sri Lankan Kasuni Rathnasuriya founded KÛR, a contemporary lace clothing collection for women. In 2011, she was deemed British Council’s Young Fashion Entrepreneur, and will make her New York Fashion Week debut at First Stage.

NiNA TiARi (United States) – New York-based stylist, creative consultant and designer Nina Tiari has worked for publications including Vogue, PAPER and The Wall Street Journal and styled the likes of Madonna, Kanye West and Jay Z. Having made her runway debut at New York Fashion Week: The Shows in February 2017, she will debut her latest womenswear collection at First Stage.

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Learn More

NYFW: First Stage
MADE

With love,

FWO

(Images: Innovation Media LENY Global)

Meet Albania Rosario of Fashion Designers of Latin America

When Albania Rosario came to the United States at 18, she didn’t even speak English. Now she owns and organizes Fashion Designers of Latin America (previously Uptown Fashion Week), bringing Latin American designers to the world stage at New York Fashion Week. In addition to a range of talent from Latin America, the platform has attracted a plethora of talent, including designers such as Michael Costello and Marc Bouwer.

Originally from the Dominican Republic, Albania uprooted and moved to the New York City in December of 2000 at 17 years old to pursue her academic career. After studying at CUNY–Hunter College, she decided to follow two passions: fashion and serving the community. “I want fashion to deliver and raise awareness of a message, not just be purses and dresses,” she says.

I want fashion to deliver and raise awareness

Rosario’s background in advertising marketing and communications has helped her cultivate relationships with her local communities, bringing sponsors to her organization like Delta Air Lines, Ford Motor Company, Hispanic Federation, Moët Hennessy USA, and others.

Her entrepreneurial and professional skills landed her a position as the executive director of the Chamber of Commerce of Washington Heights New York in 2014. To reach out to her uptown New York community, she also taught Event Management at CUNY in the Heights in 2015.

Most currently, Albania Rosario is the CEO of Uptown Management Incorporated, an event planning firm specializing in event production and branding strategies. She is also the founder of Uptown Fashion Week and creative director at Fashion Designers of Latin America fashion platform, that recognizes the outstanding contributions made to Latin America fashion by individuals from all areas of the industry and related arts.

It’s now been 17 years since Rosario came from speaking no English to running a global fashion platform that has helped develop Latin American designers to their fullest potential.

We had the opportunity to speak to Albania to find out what motives her, and what she sees for the future.

Albania Rosario: The Interview

Q: What were some of the challenges in becoming a fashion show producer?

The greatest was building credibility in one of the most competitive industries in the world, especially in New York, where so many incredible shows take place.

Q: What strategies helped — and still help — you achieve the high levels of success you’ve enjoyed?

There are many, but one of the strategies I feel has definitely helped and still helps me to achieve success not only personally, but professionally is to bring diversity and culture to our shows.

Our group is very talented, diverse, and multicultural, which continues to open doors to a bigger and wider audience around the world.

it has definitely helped to bring diversity and culture to our shows

Q: What is the ultimate goal of FDLA?

To create a strong fashion platform around the world that recognizes the outstanding work and contributions made to Latin American fashion by not only established designers, but up-and-coming talent from the industry and related arts.

I have had the chance to bring some of our FDLA designers to international shows in countries like South Korea and Eastern Europe, and we are heading to Dubai this coming October.

Sooner than later we will have Fashion Designers of Latin America everywhere around the world.

we are soon heading to Dubai

Q: What’s the best or most fulfilling aspect of what you do?

The biggest and most rewarding experience for me to see our designers bring their dreams to life.

Most of these designers have always dreamed of having the opportunities to come to New York, the fashion capital of the world, to expand and market their brand outside of their country.

It gives me a lot of joy to say that the possibilities are endless at FDLA.

Most of these designers have always dreamed of coming to New York

Q: What makes FDLA unique?

We use our platform to bring a message, a message about opportunity, about equality. We look for inspiring stories behind each designer. We put our focus on the up-and-coming, in diversity, the multicultural, the arts.

Q: Where do you want to go next? What’s the ultimate dream?

FDLA London, FDLA Paris, FDLA New York, FDLA Milan, FDLA Hong Kong, FDLA Japan, etc. etc.

What to Look for This Season

This season’s Fashion Designers of America will take place September 13 – 15, 2017.

Look for designers including:

Agatha Ruiz de La Prada (Spain)
Angie Polanco (Dominican Republic)
Carlos Sierra (Venezuela)
Carmen Camacho (Bolivia)
Chacabanas Republic brand
Francisco Saez (Spain)
Isabel López (Colombia)
Jorge Diep (Republica Dominicana)
Jose Cristian Lagares (Dominican Republic)
Jose Zafra ( Peru)
Melina Nmili Lalla bee (Dominican Republic)
Miriam Rodriguez (Venezuela)
Nidal Noaihed (Venezuela)
Robert Flores (Dominican Republic)
Rosita Hurtado (Bolivia)
Wendy Luzon (Dominican Republic)

Sponsored by:

Delta Air Lines
Ford Motor Company
Hispanic Federation
Moët Hennessy USA

With the support of:

The New York City Council – Ydanis A. Rodriguez
New York State Assembly | Carmen N. De La Rosa

In collaboration with:

Cosmeticos – Xanterîa Cosmêtica
illy® Official
Kettle Brand
Milbon USA
Marco Vogt

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Learn More

uptownfashionweek.com
NYFW schedule

With love,

FWO

Ones to Watch at NYFW

There are way too many amazing designers showing on the NYFW schedule to cover in the course of a single article. But thanks to our friends at Riviere Agency, we present a selection to keep your eyes on beginning September 7.

Many of these, such as Leanne Marshall and Dan Liu, will be familiar faces. But thanks to NYFW: First Stage and a fresh influx of talent, there are plenty of designers worth seeing who may be making a debut appearance on your radar.

Leanne Marshall

At 18, Leanne won the Levi’s Dockers Scholarship, and in 2008 was selected as a contestant for Season 5 of Project Runway.

Her ready-to-wear collection has been offered, by custom order, to both private clients and celebrities for the last 7 years, and the Leanne Marshall signature bridal line has been available since 2011. Her sophisticated designs are known for their light, flowing lines, feminine details and timeless elegance.

Theme/Quote: “Green Wall Diamond Portal”

A transportation to the Other Side of the Green Diamond Wall

Indonesian Diversity

This group show will bring together a number of amazing designers from Indonesia to Dream Downtown as part of NYFW: First Stage.

1. Dian Pelangi

Theme: “Allurrealist”

Inspiration: Dian Pelangi’s collection for New York Fashion Week is inspired by the diversity of the people of New York and the traffic in the city which is dynamic, dense, and active.

2. Vivi Zubedi

Theme: “Makkah Madina Jannah”

Inspiration: This collection tells a story of self-understanding as an individual who has balanced thinking about the journey of life now and later.

3. Melia Wijaya

Theme: “Sawunggaling”

Inspiration: As an effort to preserve one of the famous folklore (Sawunggaling) in Surabaya, Indonesia. Sawunggaling meaning Sawung (Rooster) and Galing (Peacock). The moral of this story is about the character of assertiveness, diverse forms; Creatures that are creative, full of energy, faithful, and spiritual.

4. Barli Asmara

Theme: “Canities Subita”

Inspiration: This collection utilizes a lot of white, the symbol of purity, and royalty. Also is heavily inspired by Middle Eastern architecture.

5. Catherine Njoo

Theme: Legong

Inspiration: Legong is a refined dance form characterized by intricate finger movements, complicated footwork, and expressive gestures and facial expressions. Legong originated in the 19th century as royal entertainment. Legend has it that a prince of Sukawati fell ill and had a vivid dream in which two maidens danced to gamelan music. When he recovered, he arranged for such dances to be performed in reality. Girls from the age of five aspire to be selected to represent the community as Legong dancers.

6. Doris Dorothea

Inspiration: The brand prides itself in the use of exotic skins and leather. Vibrant color will collide with exotic skin in beautifully crafted bags.

Galtiscopio

Ying Lau studied fashion design at Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and established the fashion label, INITIAL in 2000. The total revenue of the brand hit USD 100 million. In 2014, she joined GALTISCOPIO as a director and the creative director.

Theme: “Time To Shine”

Inspiration: Stylish new apparel fusing elements of bezel design with fashion. Independence, conviction, gentility, and sophistication are the main qualities. TIME TO SHINE!

Jarel Zhang

Born in Zhejiang and educated in London, Jarel Zhang received a master’s degree from Northumbria University. Jarel Zhang not only creates the brand, but has also developed a construction technique unique to the atelier.

Inspiration: Jarel Zhang drew inspiration from the chaos, construction, and movement of the New York Streets. He found beauty in chaos and in structure.

Fashion Palette

This Australian Designer Group Show will be held at Pier 59, featuring several designers

1. Sabo Luxe

The SS18 SABO LUXE collection has been inspired by the essence of a summer vacation; sultry dresses and sets under the stars with a cocktail in hand. The collection embodies dusky sunset hues and a flirty style that brings a summery aesthetic to the range. Ultra-feminine vibes are seen throughout the collection with the use of exclusive prints, ruffles and the details. Attention to detail makes all the different in the SS18 collection.

2. TORANNCE

Our SS18 Collection was inspired by the bustling streets of Marrakesh, which is a favorite of Hemingway. The range celebrates opulence with gold embellishments and stunning blue and white hand painted prints,which are inspired by the French painter Jaceques Marjorelle and his beautiful use of Marjorelle Blue.

3. Haus of Song

The collection is inspired by the clash of movement. Were masculine meets feminine, minimalism meets maximums.

4. Elliatt

Elliatt’s New York Fashion Week collection Reign “strikes the perfect balance between wearability and innovative, fashion-forward detailing and fabrications.”

The collection incorporates luxury fabrications such as structured multi colored and monochrome laces, delicate embroidered mesh, classic suiting, scattered lurex embroideries and textured drape fabrics.

The pieces are focused on innovative detailing, such as specialty trims and hardware, clean lines and finishes. Volume and scale is explored in the collection through micro ruffles, full spliced tiers, and sleeve shapes. Wrap-over elements, updated cutouts and sleeve detailing also features throughout the range.

A strong feminine undercurrent ties the capsule together and is an exploration of strong female archetypes through history with a special focus on queens.

5. Flare Street

This collection was heavily influenced by pop art icon Peter Max, and The Cosmic 60s artwork he produced, particularly references to the Universe in his psychedelic artwork. Using cosmic and lunar motifs to create a celestial narrative, two distinctive colour palettes express contrasting ideas; a story of the light, playful cosmic heavens, and the rich, brooding midnight. Australian artists Harley and J and Shell Shimmin contributed specially commissioned pieces for this collection exploring the contrasting moods and magical possibilities of the universe.

6. Ashlee Lauren

The SS17 Zenith Collection represents the concrete jungle in its enormity and vibrance. Taking meaning from “the time at which something is most powerful,” it aims to embrace the strength and femininity of women, turn heads and release the creative and untamed version of herself. While being fearless and bold, the designs will still have an underlying softness and provoke excitement, power and a spark that we all have inside us.

Dan Liu

Award-winning Canadian designer Dan Liu is no stranger to New York Fashion Week, regularly showcasing his groundbreaking designs on the February and September runways.

He draws his inspirations from his Chinese and Japanese heritage. His debut knitwear collection was so unique that numerous Hollywood celebrities frequented his first Yorkville store in Toronto.

This year, his show will be at Skylight Clarkson Square.

Theme: The Lonely Beach Feeling

Inspiration: “People say, ‘Smell the Sea, Feel the Breeze, Hear the Ocean, Be at Ease.’ Which is true, and I love the way how people feel about beaches and sea breeze, but to me, it’s a lot more than that. To me, it is okay to be sad in life, it’s okay to be hurt in love, and it’s fine only the ocean is there to be with me … because to me, ‘feeling’ is much more important than other senses that we have.

“Yes, our eyes can see and ears can hear, but I’d rather ‘feel’ because by feeling, even though I’m all alone and sad in the beach, I know the sun will eventually warm me up, the sand will comfortably soap my feet, and certainly, see breeze will give me a hug inside out. No one wants to be sad and lonely … and no one loves failure … but this is the only way we can live our lives completely and feel alive when we search our feelings with our soul.” – Dan Liu

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Learn More

To find out when these shows are happening, see the official NYFW schedule.

With love,

FWO