Cinq à Sept NYFW SS18

Represented by Bradbury Lewis. It wouldn’t be Cinq à Sept without a certain Fellini-esque surrealism, and just a touch of fairy dust. And indeed, the Spring/Summer 2018 collection at NYFW was made to “evoke an ethereal femininity, a whimsical fantasy — lightness balanced with a touch of the dramatic.”  
 
 
 
Cinq à Sept SS18 [portfolio_slideshow id=36100 align=center width=699 click=advance thumbnailsize=40 showcaps=false]   According to the press materials: “The presentation/performance followed a group of traveling performers meandering through Italy, from village to villa, circa early 1900s. The collection took inspiration from their life and style, how they evolved in and out of character as they went about their day, moving in and out of performance. “This, like all things Cinq à Sept, is a truly romantic way to live. “The performers follow the stars and their hearts — leaving behind perfumed notes and flowers from admirers. Their dreamy state is made only lovelier with flouncy ballet inspired dresses and laced trims. An unexpected mix of fabrics and details nodded to the performers’ box of tricks — perfectly imperfect, and beautifully unexpected. ” ## Learn More cinqasept.nyc NYFW schedule With love, FWO

Frederick Anderson: Fables of the Deconstruction

Represented by Deborah Hughes Inc. Wow” is as good a word as any to describe Frederick Anderson’s NYFW SS18 collection, “African-American.” As someone whose parents hail from Wales (hey that rhymed!), South America, and The Netherlands, I’m probably not the only person waiting for the end of the “race” concept. Wouldn’t it be great if we could stop categorizing each other and just get on with the business of living? Dissolution of boundaries may have been one of the ideas behind Frederick Anderson’s latest collection, “African-American,” an exploration of African fashion forms and and archetypes, with an eye to deconstructing the daywear-nightwear paradigms of ready to wear.   Frederick Anderson NYFW SS18 [portfolio_slideshow id=36028 align=center width=699 click=advance thumbnailsize=40 showcaps=false]   A continuation of his first collection, “Black Like Me,” for SS18 Anderson looked to explore outdated labels, not only in society but in the fashion industry. According to the press materials: “Just as the way we look at ourselves and others has changed, so has fashion. Sportswear, daywear, and athletic wear now blend together to make up a wardrobe for a modern day woman.” Although the collection dipped into the “earthy sexiness of the ’70s,” juxtaposed with Anderson’s African travel influences, the noteworthiness of the collection came not in high-minded ideals (as much as we adore these), but in the excellence of the execution.

the noteworthiness of the collection came in the excellence of its execution

Here was a wearable collection that showed Anderson is more than just a dreamer: he’s an artist, able to create looks as lofty as his ideals. ## Learn More frederickandersoncollection.com NYFW schedule With love, FWO

Laurence & Chico Showcase Pure Imagination at New York Fashion Week

Represented by Factory PR. A fashion collection is (not surprisingly) only as good as the inspiration of the designers behind it. When it comes to Laurence Li and Chico Wang — whose imaginations seem limitless — it’s not surprising that a collection can take on the proportions of the epic. Their Spring/Summer 2018 NYFW Collection, “Makeup Factory” — which seemed to occur somewhere at the crossroads of Rei Kawakubo and Dr. Seuss — was an example of what can happen when designers dare to have fun and dream big.   Laurence & Chico: NYFW SS18 [portfolio_slideshow id=36462 align=center width=699 click=advance thumbnailsize=40 showcaps=false]   The brand’s inspiration comes from Laurence’s personalized illustrations depicting their daily lives. The illustrations show only Laurence and Chico drawn as two human characters, whereas friends and family are all characterized as animals, plants, fruits or vegetable figures.

The brand’s inspiration comes from Laurence’s personalized illustrations

Laurence’s illustrations evoke a unique sense of humor with vivid colors, inspiring Chico to use elements from such to create an imaginative bold yet delicate prints and silhouettes for their collections. Laurence Li and Chico Wang both studied at Parsons. Chico majored in Fashion Design and has worked with top luxury brands including McQueen, Givenchy, Miu Miu and world-renowned luxury boutique, Lane Crawford. Laurence majored in Fashion Marketing and worked in Barneys Buying Department. The collection was composed of 20 looks including a combination of bold, exaggerated silhouettes and more tailored, intricate separates. Using Laurence’s hand-drawn illustrations, Chico designed the collection with over-the-top glamour and dramatic beauty in mind. Key fabrications included luxe silk, shredded tweed infused with glitter, and ruffled, embroidered denim. Interlacing pearl embellishments punctuated the collection on an assortment of outerwear, separates, and dresses. Using the brand’s signature prints and high-quality handiwork, the duo created a collection for the woman who isn’t afraid to make an entrance.

for a woman who isn’t afraid to make an entrance

Models were accessorized with oversized red, pink and black wigs, custom gloves, and shoes. Each look was finished with a bold makeup look by Marie Dalgar. The Spring/Summer 2018 collection, “Makeup Factory,” was inspired by Laurence’s fantasies about the glamorous world of makeup and their friend Cui “Masa” Xiaohong, creator of Chinese cosmetics brand Marie Dalgar. Original hand-drawn characters depicted in the prints this season include Snake Blush Brush, Grape Brush, Ladybug Brush, Bee Mascara and Powder Foundation with Lion’s Eyes ## Learn More laurenceandchico.com NYFW schedule With love, FWO

VFILES: Louis Pileggi, Christian Stone, JunJie Yang, INXX

VFILES, the experience-based social networking platform, has an amazing track record of discovering talent in the global youth community. Their latest NYFW presentation was no exception, showcasing incredible collections by VFILES RUNWAY 9 Winners JunJie Yang, Christian Stone, Louis Pileggi, and featured collection INXX.   VFiles New York Fashion Week SS18 [portfolio_slideshow id=35939 align=center width=699 click=advance thumbnailsize=40 showcaps=false]  

Their latest presentation showcased incredible collections

And what a show. Offset of Migos opened the show by driving out of a freight elevator in a yellow Ferrari, which remained on the runway during the show. And there was a mid-show performance by Jessie J., debuting her world exclusive single “Think About That,” wearing INXX. Designers INXX and Louis Pileggi featured custom-designed Converse One Stars on the runway. And an afterparty, hosted by Tinashe, was held at Billboard Lounge in Barclays Center. VFILES Runway 9 mentors included Dapper Dan, Khloe Kardashian, Emma Grede, Jimmy Moffat, and hair mentor was Mischa G. for Bumble and Bumble.

About the Designers

JUNJIE YANG JunJie Yang is an Antwerp-based menswear designer and recent graduate of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. His work is characterized by attention to craftsmanship and unexpected twists in fabrication, construction and finishing. His work is inspired by Asian culture and explores the way it has been shaped by centuries of cultural erosion. CHRISTIAN STONE London based Christian Stone founded his couture label ‘Mutant Artisanal’ after graduating Central St. Martins. Its concept gravitates towards redefining the forgotten notion of haute couture and seeks to look into its future. He is inspired by the dishevelled and transient nature of the world and creates artisanal couture clothing that is bizarrely new and functional. LOUIS PILEGGI Louis Pileggi, based in London and born in Chicago, is a womenswear designer known for his dark and sumptuous style and precise attention to fabrics and cuts. His inspiration comes from the ideas of petulance and glamour. Pileggi is a recent graduate of Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art in London. INXX INXX is a platform where international high-street enthusiasts in China come together. INXX works with the world’s top brands – everyone from fashion icons to street-level devotees in China. The “X” as denoted in the brand name, represents exploration and intersection with infinite possibilities. INXX is a unique fusion of subcultures, streetwear, and contemporary and vintage fashion. It strives to forge new trends at the cusp of the avant-garde but still remain relevant in the street. ## Learn More vfiles.com With love, FWO

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

## 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. ##

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 [portfolio_slideshow id=35896 align=center width=699 click=advance thumbnailsize=40 showcaps=false]   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. ## 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 [portfolio_slideshow id=35869 align=center width=499 click=advance thumbnailsize=40 showcaps=false]     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. ## 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. ## 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. ## 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. ## Learn More NYFW: First Stage MADE With love, FWO