Introducing SEEN by Sumayyah Al Suwaidi...

Sumayyah Al Suwaidi’s label ‘SEEN’ was launched in Feb 2010 and has been growing at a fast pace ever since. She has been hailed as the first Emirati digital artist and is an avid entrepreneur shown by her ownership of one of the most famous multi brand stores in Abu Dhabi, ‘Grafika’. By supporting emergent fashion designers in her boutique, Sumayyah Al Suwaidi was inspired to create a label of her own. Her designs offer clients one off, unique pieces as no garment is made twice. This talented lady was chosen as one of the hottest people of the year 2011 by ITP’s Hot 100 as an entrepreneur.

You have been hailed as the first female Emirati Digital Artist. What inspired you to initially go into digital Art what how was the experience as a whole?
It was 1996 when I was introduced to photoshop when my cousin was in college studying graphic design, so then I had to have the software and i started playing around and creating my own images and by the time I was 18 I had my own website and I knew I wanted to study Graphic Design, but while I was studying I didn't feel complete I felt graphic design was very limiting for me so I started researching until I discovered the world of digital art and I produced my first collection in 2001, after the artworks sold out I knew I should peruse digital art, so I decided to work on an entire collection of 26 artworks in 2002 and I had my first group show in 2003 in Abu Dhabi's Beach Rotana Hotel.

It was a fantastic experience, I made many mistakes a long the way but i learned so much, and now it feels that all the 10 years hard work is being recognized and appreciated.

You are not just a designer but also manage a range of other successful businesses such as your Grafika store, can you tell us more about that?
I started Grafika as a gift store in 2005, but in 2009 I decided to transform it to a multi-brand boutique and slowly it started becoming a platform for all emerging fashion designers from the UAE and abroad, who get the chance to display their collections a long side established designers from around the world.

I never thought in just 2 years Grafika would become one of the most talked about stores in Abu Dhabi and for that I won the L'Officiel Arab Woman of the Year Award in 2010.

So tell us a bit about your fashion label 'SEEN'?
SEEN is a dream come true for me, I always wanted to have my own label especially that I never liked to wear a dress and someone else might have the same, so finally in February 2011 I launched my line at Grafika and it was an instant hit, then I went ahead to stocking it at Ush Boutique in Dubai, Dar Usha in Dubai, Dar Usha in Kuwait and online at modahouse.com


What makes 'SEEN' unique?

You will never find any of SEEN's pieces made twice, every outfit is unique. I might repeat the cut but not the fabric so no two women will wear the same exact dress.

What can we expect from your London Fashion Week debut?

Black will be the dominating color in the entire show, luxurious fabrics and unique cuts.


You have achieved so much recognition from awards and being invited to judge prestigious fashion competitions. What would you consider to be your career highlight to date?

Winning this year's both the Emirates Woman Achiever and Emirates Woman of the Year Awards.


What advise can you give to other budding fashion Entrepreneurs?
You have to be hands on your business 24/7 its not easy but you must if you want a successful business and don't let your passion for your business control your decisions.

EXCLUSIVE AIU LONDON FASHION SHOW - ATTENDED BY ZANDRA RHODES AND LONDON FASHION INDUSTRY GUESTS

American InterContinental University (AIU) London hosted its exclusive 'Viral' Fashion Show on Tuesday 6th December 2011 at the One Mayfair, North Audley Street, London, W1K 6ZA.

Based on the theme of Biology, student designers were tasked with considering the evolution of clothing and fashion. As a natural science concerned with the study of life, Biology provided unlimited inspirational concepts. Students were able to apply ideas of structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution to fashion and really let their creative juices flow. The clothes on the catwalk were creative, contemporary, and fashion forward, forming a covetable array of appealing designs whilst challenging the mainstream.

The runway exhibited individual designs from first, second, and final year students. From menswear to womenswear, from pre-Collection Experimental Pieces to 3D Form design, clothing ranged from the commercial and conceptual to the avant-garde.

The Fashion Show provided key industry figures such as noted English fashion designer Zandra Rhodes, along with leading representatives from UK retail, with a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and view designs from the next generation of international fashion talent. The evening included a chic drinks reception on arrival, followed by the fashion show of exciting designs set to music.

All proceeds from the fashion show were in aid of The Esther Benjamins Trust, a charity that rescues Nepalese children from trafficking- including from Indian circuses where the children were forced to work as performers. The Esther Benjamins Trust offers the children the opportunity of a full education and a range of vocational training opportunities such as jewellery design.

Gill Stark, Dean of Fashion, AIU London said: "We are delighted to have presented the work of the Fashion Design students, who come to study from all over the world. The designs on the catwalk were the result of ten weeks of research, idea generation and development work, drawing on inspiration from science. The students were encouraged to design garments that reflect the creativity and innovation of London fashion, while embodying their developing philosophies in relation to fashion. The fashion students also learnt how to produce professional fashion shows and events. Exciting and glamorous, fashion shows are also a key marketing tool in the fashion industry."

Chris Kendrick, Head of Fundraising at The Esther Benjamins Trust said: "On behalf of everyone at The Esther Benjamins Trust, I'd like to express my gratitude to the students and staff at AIU London - we are privileged to have had their support since 2008 and it plays a significant role in raising awareness of our work in Nepal."

AIU London is situated in the heart of the fashion industry and for 35 years has been preparing students to pursue education in fashion design and fashion marketing. The school's fashion department also teaches optional modules in Paris.

For more information about AIU London or the event, please visit www.aiulondon.ac.uk


For more information about The Esther Benjamins Trust, please visit http://www.ebtrust.org.uk/

Head to JANETROZZO.COM for a range of hand-designed Christmas decorations!

Popular homes and interiors website AlifeLessOrdinary changes name, but fans take heart!

 Home and gardens accessories website alife-lessordinary.com has relaunched with a new name that will make the quirky and distinctive brand easier to find!

The site relaunched as JaneTrozzo.com after fans persuaded the inspiration and owner of the site – Jane Trozzo – the website’s name should reflect her individual flare for interior design.

To celebrate the re-launch, Jane Trozzo is launching an exclusive range of personally designed Christmas accessories, including a stylish Red Ruffle Heart.

Thousands of people have already transformed their homes and gardens with the help of the quirky website which sells distinct and unusual accessories that can’t be found on the high street.

Said Jane Trozzo: “We changed the name because some customers were kind enough to say ‘You should really name the site after yourself, because your style is so distinct’. My husband’s surname is Italian which gives the new brand an interesting twist. Also, I think people will be able to find the new site more easily, if I’m honest!”

“Designing some Christmas accessories seemed a logical progression from selecting inspiring and intriguing items from around the world. I’ve enjoyed making our Christmas items. My favourite is the Red Ruffle Heart, which is perfect for all year round!

Janetrozzo.com products are all made from natural materials including linen, jute, silk, lead, wood and flax – and are designed to suit all budgets.

The website offers everything from jute floor cushions and chunky kitchen jars to luxurious antique design lighting, Japanese rain chains and antique-effect sunflower mirrors.

Janetrozzo.com regularly supplies accessories for magazine and newspaper shoots and features stunning photography to profile the extensive range of products.

The new Jane Trozzo designed range of Christmas accessories(pictured), including pot pourie, garland, cinnamon sticks and a ruffle Christmas tree, is currently available on the site. The Red Ruffle Heart, made from felt, will be priced at £18.

“As Janetrozzo.com has grown, the people who shop with us have become more like friends than customers. Interior design is something I am passionate about and it’s a joy to share my love with others,” added Jane.

Visit www.janetrozzo.com for a full range of products

First offical Sex and the City fragrance collection launches : A Great Xmas Gift!

Sex and the City, the landmark HBO series that continues to influence fashion trends and lifestyle choices amongst fans worldwide, has inspired a line of signature eau de perfumes created by Givaudan under a licensing agreement  between HBO and JTG Trading Company who will manufacture and distribute the collection worldwide.   The sassy style of Carrie Bradshaw, the confidence of Miranda Hobbes, the sensuality of Samantha Jones, and the classic style of Charlotte York are now contained in two new fragrances “Sex and City” and “Sex and the City by Night,” as well as “Sex and the City” Body Collections sets, which will debut at the HBO Shop (www.store.hbouk.com) and Wilkinson locations in November and will expand through Europe early next year. 

The new fragrances were developed by three of Givaudan’s top perfumers:  Adriana Medina, well known for her creations for Gwen Stefani and Ed Hardy; Rodrigo Flores-Roux, who has created scents for Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss and Estée Lauder; and Claude Dir, the fragrance creator behind Bobbi Brown and Tommy Hilfiger colognes. 

“The Sex and the City series continues to resonate with women worldwide,” said James Costos, vice president, Global Licensing & Retail at HBO.  “The appeal of the four main characters, who are as unique, complex and trendy as any woman aspires to be, symbolize the show’s eternal allure.  We’re extremely pleased to partner with Givaudan - the global leader in the fragrance industry.  Their elite perfumers have developed fragrances that capture the essence of Sex and the City and JTG Trading Company has the expertise to execute our vision and deliver this collection around the world.

“Givaudan is excited about creating these signature fragrances that capture the global appeal of the beloved television series Sex and the City.  This iconic show inspires viewers and fans with its lifestyle of trendy styles and chic, confident women,” said Cosimo Policastro, executive vice president, Fine Fragrance at Givaudan.  “This inspiration provided our perfumers with the starting points to create two sexy, sophisticated and timeless designs that are sure to be embraced as true fragrance classics.”

 

“Sex and the City”– the Stylish Perfume for a Day in the City (Above pic)

The “Sex and the City” perfume captures New York City’s energy and unique sensibility. With fresh top notes of Italian mandarin, juicy blood orange, red and pink berries and a subtle touch of passion fruit, the heart of this perfume is feminine, soft and flowery, with scents derived from jasmine, gardenia leaves and orange blossom. The velvety musk, sandalwood, caramel and amber in the base note provide the fragrance’s final statement of finesse, style and elegance.

“Sex and the City by Night” – the Sensuous Glamour of the City That Never Sleeps

With its sensuous, ultra feminine allure, “Sex and the City by Night” is the perfume equivalent of the little black dress. Fresh top notes of sparkling bergamot, pear blossom, dewy freesia leaves and neroli bring glamour to the fore. The heart of the perfume develops into a lush bouquet of night jasmine, peony, vanilla orchard and a surprising accent of fruity pomegranate, with the base note offering a beguiling, luxurious and slight powdery essence delivered by the warm blend of sandalwood, amber crystals, tonka beans, musk and patchouli.

Both fragrance lines retail from £9.00 for 30ml Eau de Perfume, £15.00 for 60 ml, Eau de Perfume and £22.50 for 100 ml Eau de Perfume.

McQ at LONDON FASHION WEEK

For the first time since the brand was launched, McQ will present the autumn/winter 2012/2013 collection with a catwalk show at London Fashion Week in February 2012.

Image: Customised McQ tartan safety pin dress

The show will form a preview to the the opening of a McQ store in London in Spring 2012: A Georgian townhouse located at 14 Dover Street, London W1S 4LW with 4 storeys and 273 square metres of retail space, McQ’s first flagship store will be designed by Pod and will offer womenswear, menswear as well as accessories from the collection.

The main line Alexander McQueen collection will continue to show at Paris Fashion Week.

W: www.m-c-q.com

Kelly Rowland causes Tuxedo sell out at Selfridges post X Factor appearance!!

STELLA MCCARTNEY Triple lapel jacket £1,175.00, sold out at Selfridges

It's all about the female tux this Christmas. Selfridges, the world's best department store reveals

that Stella McCartney's Triple Lapel jacket and trousers, £1,175.00 completely sold out since

Kelly Rowland stepped onto the X Factor stage showcasing hers. This season marks a return to formal

masculine style, with the legendary lady tux rivalling the fail safe LBD to the coolest party fashion.

Other celebrities hoping their tux will give them the X Factor include Katy Perry who performed on the

show wearing the Moschino Cheap & Chic Tuxedo Jumpsuit, £795 available at Selfridges

 and Selfridges.com.

Moschino Cheap & Chic Tuxedo Jumpsuit, £795 available at Selfridges and Selfridges.com

The Psionics Hair Show goes down with a bang!

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Café de Paris in London, the show which took place on 5th November was a truly spectacular event. Toni & Guy Creative Directors George Akkad and Andrew Thomas Corbett excelled themselves with their stylistic creations that really expressed the concept of Psionics.

Psionics, the title and concept of the show, literally translates as creating other worldly
phenomena with one’s own mind. This manifests into the work ethic of the hair and clothes producing a show that is ethereal, bold and imaginative.

20 models walked the catwalk in a range of editorial and avant garde looks styled by
STYLECREATIVE and featuring designs from Kate Williams, Gemma Goldstone, Ara Jo and VictoriaClare and shoes from Iron Fist.

The Psionics Hair Show really was the visual feast promised!
 

After the stunning catwalk shows, DJ JoJo took to the decks to keep everyone dancing well into
the night while the champagne was flowing.

Who knows what we can expect from George and Andrew next year given that Psionics this year simply blew everyone away!

Links:

George Akkad - http://www.georgeakkad.com/
Andrew-Thomas Corbett - http://andrewthomascorbett.com/
STYLECREATIVE - http://www.stylecreative.co.uk/

Leah Charles-King Presents…

An exciting new online boutique specializing in Vintage, Pre-loved & Inspired ladies dresses from the Forties to Noughties!

Award-winning, mainstream Television presenter and producer, singer/songwriter (Sony Music), with a combined profession of over 20 years, Leah Charles, presents KookieLaLa Boutique, a NEW affordable women's fashion store set for launch on Monday 14^th November via www.kookielala.com

 

 Watch the official Kookie LaLa Boutique Promo in HD here: http://youtu.be/KW_lRR987Pw

To coincide with the website’s launch, Kookie LaLa Boutique has been invited to showcase their first collection with a dynamic fashion showcase as guests of Creative Wellbeing International’s “Compliment Me” Event on Thursday 24^th November in Earl’s Court, London.

Kookie which means “quirky, eccentric or irregular” and “LaLa” meaning “a euphoric state of mind”, defines the boutique and its essence of inclusion. Kookie LaLa was a nickname given to Managing Director, Leah Charles, in her 20’s and sums up the range of diverse collections which will be on offer within her new and exciting online boutique.

Kookie LaLa Boutique has arrived to encourage women to be confident about their bodies and to let their “inner light” shine, using their image as a canvas by mixing old vintage with modern clothing to create their own individual look! This online boutique believes in being a little more left field and original than what various high street stores mass produce.

KookieLaLa’s main mission is to offer vintage, pre-loved and inspired day dresses to evening gowns at an affordable price thus empowering women through feeling unique, stylish and glamourous, as well as passing on the secret details of underground vintage and mainstream fashion in an instant.

This vibrant company is an incorporation of an online e-commerce store, with a relevant fashion blog providing several new concepts to entice all buyers and visitors. As well as offering a modern look and user friendly website, Kookie LaLa TV will launch with showcases of mini virals featuring and promoting all things fashion and entertaining, including soundbites from members of the public; clothing advice from fellow fashionistas; Designer profiles; plus exclusive interviews from a celebrity or two!

In the days of recession and less cash flow to spend, Kookie LaLa Boutique is here to offer an affordable solution to every woman’s fashion woes whilst also helping the environment by encouraging clothing recycling and thrifty spending.

New customers and Kookie LaLa followers will be able to hire from a selection of party, prom, evening and formal dresses and gowns for up to 7 days hire from as little as £69.

This new online boutique also offers a Dress Agency, where women can sell their pre-loved dresses for someone else to enjoy. Kookie LaLa will ensure your dress is advertised on the website and will sell it on your behalf providing you with extra cash for the sale less a reasonable commission fee for the service.

Kookie LaLa Boutique will collaborate with established and up-and-coming designers to provide a range of designer dresses, jewellery and accessories.

We are pleased to announce that our first designer collaboration is with Hungarian designer Luca Molnar showcasing her Miss Future t-shirt range of original, colourful, fun and funky designs, plus Art Deco vintage jewellery from Vanessa Cozens who will showcase the highest quality from her collection of Monet & Weiss, Lisner and Kramer costume jewellery to name a few.

 

Listings Information

www.kookielala.com

www.youtube.com/kookielalatv

www.twitter.com/kookielala

PRESS

For further press information and interview requests please contact:

Contact: Amica Anselm

Email:  press@kookielala.com

Email: amica@kookielala.com

Stars come out to celebrate the relaunch of The Velvet Room with Sinead Kelly London

                         

Stars come out to celebrate the relaunch of The Velvet Room as

           Sinead Kelly London

Having been in business for just over one year, Celebrity Hairstylist Sinead Kelly celebrated the phenomenal success of her plush Barnes salon with her star clients and friends, in a star studded bash on 18^th October 2011.

Celebrity clients and friends of the 30 year bombshell entrepreneur including some of TV’s best known faces including Holly Willoughby, Kimberley Wyatt, JLS star JB and girlfriend Chloe Tangney, Ali Bastian, Strictly Come Dancing’s Robin Windsor & Kristina Rihanoff, Nikki Sanderson, Joe Calzaghe etc were gathered in the luxury salon for champagne and laughter and emotional speeches lead by actress Ali Bastian and Sinead herself.

Sponsors of the fabulous night included Lipsy, Ann Summers, Sienna X and Loreal.

They say that that entrepreneurs are born and not made, which goes some way to explain why the indomitable, bombshell business woman that is Sinead Kelly, didn't let leaving school at 15 after battling with academia and suffering years of bullying, prevent her from leaping on to the property ladder at just 23 when her peers were partying away their rent money and launching a business turning over a quarter million pounds all before 30.

Such success after just a year is unprecedented, particularly in an industry where ironically it is men who rule. Thirty-year old Sinead is ready to rock that rule.

For further information contact

see www.sineadkellylondon.com

Jessica Huie at JH Public Relations

Jessica@jhpr.co.uk 07985 424 772

Sneak Peak into Teen Vogue's Fashion News Director Jane Keltner De Valle's home

Who lives there: Jane Keltner De Valle, Fashion News Director, Teen vogue 

Where is it located: New York                                                                                                                     

What’s special about it:  Very dedicated as it shows in her work, We were distracted by the range of clustered accessories .Very  Inspirational         

  (Image Source and information from :  http://thecoveteur.com/)                    

     

Spotted! Award winning Actress Kate Ford in Monsura Boutique

The Award Winning British Actress Kate Ford was recently seen sporting a fabulous Monsura Boutique bag in a rich mustard and brown tone.

The actress famously known for playing the role of Tracy Barlow in Coronation Street is also a passionate PETA supporter.

Monsura Bags has been a big hit with the celebs recently with Footballer John Carew rocking the man bag version during London Fashion Week last month.

For more info on Monsura Boutique visit www.monsura.com

Must have tights of this season: Patterned Tights

         

As the winter approaches, don’t expect the return of black opaques but rather pattered tights which are in fact this seasons must have. We found these gorgeous tights by Fiore on itsocks.com.

Fiore have created tights with beautiful detailed flower tattoos offering classiness and edge. With trends such as colour blocking, patterned tights are perfect to compliment a simple outfit and to stand out from the crowd.

 

Sneak peak into Stylist and co-host of Fashion Police George Kotsiopoulos's home

Who lives there: George Kotsiopoulos, Celebrity Stylist, Co-Host ”Fashion Police”

Where is it located: Los Angeles

What's special about it: Beware of this Police officer, he may arrest you if you for a crime on fashion. He has a distinctive eye for fashion as he great with throwing pieces together creating a fantastic makeover. George’s egg crate idea is a fantastic way of storing anything small as well as eggs.

  (Image Source and information from :  http://thecoveteur.com/)

Sneak Peak into Elle Magazine's Accesories director Kate Davidson Hudson's home

Who lives there: Kate Davidson Hudson, Accessories director, ELLE Magazine,

Where is it located: New York

What’s special about it: We share a mutual love of stacked rings, vintage Lanvin and anything in pony hair by Peirre hardy. A fabulous way for safe keeping our most prized jewellery.

 (Image Source and information from :  http://thecoveteur.com/)

Watch Malgorzata Dudek S/S 12 London Fashion Week Show

Video by: http://www.littlemissfashion.com/

Footballer John Carew closes Monsura Boutique's London Fashion Week Catwalk Show !

West Ham United footballer John Carew made his Fashion Week Catwalk debut at the Monsura Boutique show produced by LGN Events. The event show was part of the ‘A La Mode’ London Fashion Week designer Catwalk presentations and took place last night at the luxurious Charing Cross Hotel in Strand.
Monsura Boutique is a new Luxurious yet affordable accessory brand designing show stopping high end bags for both men and women. Dressed in an Ozwald Boateng suit, styled by Monsura Boutique, John strut down the Catwalk in Monsura’s boutique’s new menswear bag range.

Other guests in attendance included A-List Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji, Model Lauren Budd amongst editors and buyers.

For further information on Monsura Boutique visit: http://www.monsura.com/

For images or more information on the event visit: www.lgn-events.co.uk or email joy@lagenevenorth.co.uk

Photo credit: Carl Lueng

Street Style: Covent Garden

Paul Costelloe S/S 12 At LFW

Well, what a show! Paul Costelloe has been a leader in the British fashion industry for the past 30 years and definitely did not disappoint with his S/S 12 collection at LFW. The designer has presented his S/S and A/W catwalk collections at London Fashion Week every season for the past 15 years. Due to Paul Costelloe’s popularity, he has opened the week for the past six seasons bringing originality and flair. The label is primarily focussed on women’s wear, but has recently become more diverse with strong men’s wear collections. This famous designer has previously stated his typical client would be an "international, modern woman, aged between 27 and 97. She is discreet; she wants to be seen but not screened” (Costelloe, 2009, www.londonfashionweek.co.uk).

The S/S 12 collection was showcased at Somerset house and was based on current season trends such as nude tones and feminine silhouettes.  The women were dressed in pretty, flirty and flattering baby doll dresses made from rich brocade fabrics. Pastel colours were prominent such as creams, candyfloss pinks and peaches, giving the structured pieces a soft, romantic feeling. In contrast with the nude tones in the outfits, the models wore pea green eye makeup which acted as a bold, flirty colour contrast. The fitted dresses featured balloon skirts and puffed sleeves, distinctive of 1960s mod fashion. Empire lines were big news as were high waists and short hemlines. Rich silks and frill detailing also added to the sweet and innocent portrayals. Costelloe pushed the boundaries by adding heeled sandals and socks to his runway looks, and we just couldn’t complain at the end result.

Similarly, the male models wore muted tones but the designs were stylish, fresh and slick. The tailored suits were in charcoals and greys and were perfectly cut. The outfits could be taken straight off the catwalk and into a business meeting and would appeal to a professional wishing to look dapper.

The show received a great reception as it delivered Paul Costelloe’s iconic style. The looks were effortlessly chic. There was much anticipation and hype for Costelloe’s S/S 12 collection and he certainly did not let his fans down.

Image Credit: www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

Caroline Charles S/S 12 At LFW

Caroline Charles is a renowned and respected British women’s wear designer and a lot was expected from her S/S 12 collection at LFW. The designer has enjoyed celebrity following over the years from Lulu to Princes Diana. Her designs appeal to sophisticated ladies looking for classic pieces which are suited for day or work wear.

The S/S collection had a Parisian theme with oversized sunglasses and round straw boater hats. These pieces were the fundamental accessories in the runway show. The clothes were chic and elegant with a feminine tailored fit. Caroline Charles’s beautiful collection could definitely be categorised as “glamour for grown-ups”. The colour pallet was blacks, whites and navy blues with a variety of prints. Check and hounds tooth featured heavily, adding fun and excitement to the modestly designed clothing.

The designs were simple and classic, as expected from the designer, using high waisted trousers and effortless shift dresses. These wide leg pants were teamed with pretty feminine blouses. Accessories were key, illustrated by the sequin embellished ribbon neck pieces and ribbon bow belts. The conservative trends were brought alive by what seemed like the new summer headwear staple – the straw hat. Caroline Charles displayed a variety of styles and colours in these hats ranging from oversized to simple boater hats with ribbon detailing.



These wearable designs could easily be visualised on elegant ladies at the French Riviera. The ready to wear looks were teamed with small black heels, offering customer’s attainable day to night looks. The runway collection certainly inspired me to dig out my old straw hat from the back of the closet and add a look of mystique to my styling with long trousers and feminine cuts. Hats off to Caroline Charles!