The French Institute Alliance Française presents: Fashion Talks with Pamela Golbin featuring designer, Catherine Malandrino
This Spring, the French Institute Alliance Française (fi:af) bridges French haute couture and New York style as it presents three “Fashion Talks” with top female designers. Moderated by Pamela Golbin, author and Curator-in-Chief of Twentieth-Century and Contemporary Fashion at the Musee de la Mode et du Textile in Paris, the talks aim to explore the designers’ backgrounds, creative process, and their path to success. The series features talks with three amazing designers – Donna Karan, Catherine Malandrino, and Diane von Furstenberg.
On Friday, March 20th, I had the pleasure of attending the Fashion Talk with Catherine Malandrino (DVF recap coming soon). Although she is a ten-year veteran, Catherine’s star is still rising and I feel has not yet hit its zenith. She is an impeccable designer who embodies her work and her passion through her lifestyle, a characteristic that she shares with the woman she designs for.
Growing up in the French Alps, Catherine saw the world differently than the fashion scene saw it at that time. Choosing her sisters over dolls, she practiced her future profession. After having studied fashion and graduating with honors, Catherine cut her teeth at the houses of Dorothée Bis, Louis Féraud, and Emanuel Ungaro where she perfected her detailing and fit. It was Catherine’s journey stateside to New York City however, that led her to express her vision of blending couture elements into sportswear for fast paced life of the woman she wanted to design for. With this vision, she embodies both Paris and New York - blending the beautiful and the romantic with the urban and eccentric to create “Chic in the Street” fashion.
Catherine has always thought of her brand as a Fashion House or “Maison” rather than simply a sportswear brand. She bridges the gap between the atelier and the factory as she moves the core principles of couture into real life, making her clothing available to women who would normally not have access to such fine details and fit. Catherine discussed how she continually thinks of her collection as a wardrobe; with each new collection that she presents, she builds upon that wardrobe. In line with Planet Style Concierge’s philosophy, Catherine emphasized that clothing is the ultimate vehicle through which one speaks to the world about themselves.
Looking stunning in a black dress constructed of floral embroidered patches with jet black hair and matching black patent leather pumps, Catherine shared how she fell in love with her husband in NYC, and how thankful she is for the celebrity clientele that have worn her clothing - most notably Madonna, one of the first to embrace her critically acclaimed Flag collection, Halle Berry, and Julia Roberts. Citing Mary J. Blige as a close friend, Catherine credits her music as the inspiration behind her 2001 “Hallelujah” show, which was presented at the famous Apollo theatre.
When asked if she would ever design for men, Catherine responded yes, noting that she cannot think about how to dress a woman without thinking about the man that accompanies her. This would be a natural progression for her, if she can find the time. Her definition of “Catherine Malandrino” was “spontaneity, femininity, determination, vision, strength, and love;” all characteristics that I feel are expressed in her clothing.
Overall the event was quite good. I enjoyed Catherine’s comments and hearing about her background and inspiration; all of which delivered in a soothing French accent. My only criticism would be that the moderator felt a bit staged and rehearsed. I would have much preferred it to feel conversational, rather than leading from one talking point to another.
Catherine’s clothes have always struck a cord with me form the moment I first stepped into her boutique in the Meat Packing District. They are feminine, beautiful, and soft, while at the same time being assertive and confident. They feature excellent detailing and the fit is very flattering. Kudos Catherine, keep up the good work and we look forward to what you will bring us in the next six months for Spring 2010!
Brian Ciabotti – for Planet Style Concierge
Tuesday, March 31
Thursday, March 26
Men and Women in Uniform!
I realize that I usually write about fashion but I felt obliged to write this blog dedicated to our servicemen and women around the world.
Each year the staff of the USS Nimitz hosts a Family Day. It’s a day to invite loved ones aboard the aircraft carrier to see what day-to-day life is like. I was lucky enough to be invited this year by Chief Operations Officer Balanza, my father in law.
On Saturday, March 21st at 6am, the ship set sail for the day with a full agenda of activities. The first part of the day included a fantastic buffet breakfast and a grand tour of the ship. The Nimitz is the size of a small city with over 3,500 staff alone. In the afternoon, we were treated to an amazing F/18 and Seahawk Helicopter display. It was similar to an air show, but much more intense since we were standing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier. To see and feel an F/18 break the sound barrier and drop thousand pound bombs is really quite heart stopping.
I have always had a great respect for those who protect countries around the world. Being on the ship for the day made that respect and appreciation grow even more. I would like to take a moment to salute the men and women of the USS Nimitz and all of those who help make this world a better place.
Each year the staff of the USS Nimitz hosts a Family Day. It’s a day to invite loved ones aboard the aircraft carrier to see what day-to-day life is like. I was lucky enough to be invited this year by Chief Operations Officer Balanza, my father in law.
On Saturday, March 21st at 6am, the ship set sail for the day with a full agenda of activities. The first part of the day included a fantastic buffet breakfast and a grand tour of the ship. The Nimitz is the size of a small city with over 3,500 staff alone. In the afternoon, we were treated to an amazing F/18 and Seahawk Helicopter display. It was similar to an air show, but much more intense since we were standing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier. To see and feel an F/18 break the sound barrier and drop thousand pound bombs is really quite heart stopping.
I have always had a great respect for those who protect countries around the world. Being on the ship for the day made that respect and appreciation grow even more. I would like to take a moment to salute the men and women of the USS Nimitz and all of those who help make this world a better place.
Monday, March 23
The Colleagues Spring Annual Lunch
What do Wolf Gang and Gelilia Puck, Kevan Hall, The Colleagues, and an amazing lunch have in common?
The Colleagues Spring Annual Lunch.
On Thursday March 19th, 2009, the Colleagues Spring Annual Lunch was held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Over 500 people attended this year’s gala style lunch and cocktail party benefitting the Children’s Institute.
Walking into the beautiful ballroom, the finest ladies from LA and the surrounding areas were on display. Wolf Gang Puck prepared a fantastic meal and as guests enjoyed lunch and cocktails, Kevan Hall introduced his Fall 2009 R/W Line. The theme screamed, “Women on a mission who got their man and looked amazing while doing it.” As James Bond music played, Hall sent structured gowns, polished evening wear and razor sharp coats down the catwalk. Bold metallics, sleek half gloves and bright emerald and cranberry hues rounded out a show stopping collection.
The lunch was amazing, the fashions fierce and the ladies beautiful. There is nothing like supporting a great cause and having fun while doing it. Cheers to the Children’s Institute for their great work and to the Pucks for their relentless fundraising.
The Colleagues Spring Annual Lunch.
On Thursday March 19th, 2009, the Colleagues Spring Annual Lunch was held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Over 500 people attended this year’s gala style lunch and cocktail party benefitting the Children’s Institute.
Walking into the beautiful ballroom, the finest ladies from LA and the surrounding areas were on display. Wolf Gang Puck prepared a fantastic meal and as guests enjoyed lunch and cocktails, Kevan Hall introduced his Fall 2009 R/W Line. The theme screamed, “Women on a mission who got their man and looked amazing while doing it.” As James Bond music played, Hall sent structured gowns, polished evening wear and razor sharp coats down the catwalk. Bold metallics, sleek half gloves and bright emerald and cranberry hues rounded out a show stopping collection.
The lunch was amazing, the fashions fierce and the ladies beautiful. There is nothing like supporting a great cause and having fun while doing it. Cheers to the Children’s Institute for their great work and to the Pucks for their relentless fundraising.
Tuesday, March 17
Sizzling Spring Trend Report
Now that February has ended and the clocks have sprung forward, it’s time to look ahead to spring. Fashionistas all know what that means: it’s time to analyze the trends we will be wearing in the upcoming season.
Here are a few of my picks that will make you sizzle as the weather warms up.
Patriotism is strong this spring. Grab a piece of clothing or accessory in red, white or blue and you will be ready to salute our country.
BCBGMaxAzria Patent and Raffia Sandal
Geometric Patterns are all over the runways and stores. Why should you wear them? These angular motifs add architectural interest to your outfits and are just downright beautiful.
Adam – Gathered Silk Dress
Alexander McQueen - Intarsia Knit Dress– This dress is sure to stop any man in his tracks.
Jimmy Choo – Bracelet Woven Hobo – The perfect bag for those summer days!
For any of these trends, just head over to your favorite store. Whether it be H&M or Neimans, if you can spot the trends, you are sure to be dressed to kill this spring!
Here are a few of my picks that will make you sizzle as the weather warms up.
Patriotism is strong this spring. Grab a piece of clothing or accessory in red, white or blue and you will be ready to salute our country.
BCBGMaxAzria Patent and Raffia Sandal
Geometric Patterns are all over the runways and stores. Why should you wear them? These angular motifs add architectural interest to your outfits and are just downright beautiful.
Adam – Gathered Silk Dress
Alexander McQueen - Intarsia Knit Dress– This dress is sure to stop any man in his tracks.
Jimmy Choo – Bracelet Woven Hobo – The perfect bag for those summer days!
For any of these trends, just head over to your favorite store. Whether it be H&M or Neimans, if you can spot the trends, you are sure to be dressed to kill this spring!
Thursday, March 12
Ursula Masterson
Exclusive Fashion Q and A preview!
Just before the holidays I had a chance to sit down with jeweler and friend Ursula Masterson. We had a wonderful chat about her craft, why she became a jeweler and where she sees her collection heading.
Here on the Planet Style Blog you will find part of the Q and A session that we had together. Stay tuned for the complete interview to be published on FashionQandA.com.
PS: Where are you originally from? How do you incorporate your ethnic background and cultural identity into your work?
UM: I grew up in Vermont, but spent a good deal of my childhood traveling around Europe on sabbatical leaves with my parents. As a child and teenager, I was fortunate enough to live in Greece and the south of France. Later, during my television news career, I was based in Moscow and London. There’s no doubt that these experiences have informed my work: From the azure blue water encircling the isle of Capri to the gilt iconostases of the Kremlin’s cathedrals, religion, history, and foreign landscapes have all made an enduring mark on my jewelry design.
PS: Jewelers need a high degree of skill, precision, and attention to detail. Can you briefly describe your design process? What does it take to create a piece for your line from start to finish?
UM: My design process always starts with a vision: It can come at any time… in the middle of the night, on the subway or on a long day’s drive. I am usually struck by some prosaic object in the middle of my path, like the grid on a manhole cover, the gilded cornice of a building, or a silhouette created by trees lining the highway. I then make sketches in my head until I can get to a piece of paper. Often a Post-It will suffice! At this point, depending on the technique called for, I gather my materials (silver rod, stones, bezels, chain, etc.,) or simply start carving. Most often I work in wax, which I later cast into silver or gold. I make the original model myself and then work with a number of bench jewelers, polishers, and stone setters in New York’s Diamond district to perfect the final piece.
PS: Advances in jewelry production have allowed jewelers to produce a higher quality product at a reduced cost and in a shorter amount of time. What type of technology, if any, do you use to construct your pieces?
UM: For the most part, I use slightly updated versions of technology that have been around for thousands of years, mainly lost-wax casting, soldering, engraving, and bezel setting. But for some lines, I work with a technician to scan artwork into a computer so it can be etched onto wax sheets. The resulting model can be adjusted after it’s been cast into metal.
PS: How many years have you been merchandising your line and where can people buy your jewelry?
UM: I launched Ursula Masterson Jewelry in 2004. At first, I worked with several different showrooms and stores downtown, but eventually I started doing biannual design shows in Chelsea and developing my own roster of private clients, with whom I work one-on-one to create designs tailored to them. If white gold works better with their skin tone, I change the metal. If they prefer sapphires to diamonds, I can work on that too. I even do lower cost versions of my “haute” pieces to fit smaller budgets. It’s a great way to work that’s both fun for the client and energizing for me!
PS: What would you like the world to know about Ursula Masterson Jewelry?
UM: I’d like them to know that Ursula Masterson Jewelry isn’t just another collection of pretty baubles. There’s a story behind each design, and every piece has a name. Taken together, the collection is a humble reflection of historical tastes and a celebration of the human instinct to create and adorn.
If you would like to hear more from Ursula Masterson, check back on www.FashionQandA.com in the coming weeks, where the full interview will be published.
Just before the holidays I had a chance to sit down with jeweler and friend Ursula Masterson. We had a wonderful chat about her craft, why she became a jeweler and where she sees her collection heading.
Here on the Planet Style Blog you will find part of the Q and A session that we had together. Stay tuned for the complete interview to be published on FashionQandA.com.
PS: Where are you originally from? How do you incorporate your ethnic background and cultural identity into your work?
UM: I grew up in Vermont, but spent a good deal of my childhood traveling around Europe on sabbatical leaves with my parents. As a child and teenager, I was fortunate enough to live in Greece and the south of France. Later, during my television news career, I was based in Moscow and London. There’s no doubt that these experiences have informed my work: From the azure blue water encircling the isle of Capri to the gilt iconostases of the Kremlin’s cathedrals, religion, history, and foreign landscapes have all made an enduring mark on my jewelry design.
PS: Jewelers need a high degree of skill, precision, and attention to detail. Can you briefly describe your design process? What does it take to create a piece for your line from start to finish?
UM: My design process always starts with a vision: It can come at any time… in the middle of the night, on the subway or on a long day’s drive. I am usually struck by some prosaic object in the middle of my path, like the grid on a manhole cover, the gilded cornice of a building, or a silhouette created by trees lining the highway. I then make sketches in my head until I can get to a piece of paper. Often a Post-It will suffice! At this point, depending on the technique called for, I gather my materials (silver rod, stones, bezels, chain, etc.,) or simply start carving. Most often I work in wax, which I later cast into silver or gold. I make the original model myself and then work with a number of bench jewelers, polishers, and stone setters in New York’s Diamond district to perfect the final piece.
PS: Advances in jewelry production have allowed jewelers to produce a higher quality product at a reduced cost and in a shorter amount of time. What type of technology, if any, do you use to construct your pieces?
UM: For the most part, I use slightly updated versions of technology that have been around for thousands of years, mainly lost-wax casting, soldering, engraving, and bezel setting. But for some lines, I work with a technician to scan artwork into a computer so it can be etched onto wax sheets. The resulting model can be adjusted after it’s been cast into metal.
PS: How many years have you been merchandising your line and where can people buy your jewelry?
UM: I launched Ursula Masterson Jewelry in 2004. At first, I worked with several different showrooms and stores downtown, but eventually I started doing biannual design shows in Chelsea and developing my own roster of private clients, with whom I work one-on-one to create designs tailored to them. If white gold works better with their skin tone, I change the metal. If they prefer sapphires to diamonds, I can work on that too. I even do lower cost versions of my “haute” pieces to fit smaller budgets. It’s a great way to work that’s both fun for the client and energizing for me!
PS: What would you like the world to know about Ursula Masterson Jewelry?
UM: I’d like them to know that Ursula Masterson Jewelry isn’t just another collection of pretty baubles. There’s a story behind each design, and every piece has a name. Taken together, the collection is a humble reflection of historical tastes and a celebration of the human instinct to create and adorn.
If you would like to hear more from Ursula Masterson, check back on www.FashionQandA.com in the coming weeks, where the full interview will be published.
Friday, March 6
Dire Times, Bright Colors?
We all know that the world is in a strange place right now. With the financial, real estate and retail markets faltering, people are re-evaluating their goals and aspirations. When life is in a downward spiral, men and especially women tend to wear more black.
An easy go-to color, black is slimming and can be worn to work or for going out. But with so many colors out there, a burst of any of them can change your mood from black to bright! When searching your closet for something to wear, pick a color that catches your attention – it will be sure to catch the attention of others too.
Here are a few quick tips to brighten your day and the day of those around you.
1. Gentleman: Pick a bright colored shirt and a complementary tie to brighten your face and get you some attention.
Brooks Brothers – Available at Brooksbrothers.com
2. Ladies: To make your outfit fresh, use bright accessories! Throw on some colored high heels or a clutch, or even throw on several bangles with pops of color to catch the light as you move.
Pucci Multi Bangle & Alexis Bittar – Both available in Saks.com
And remember whatever goes down, must go up. Times will get better and life will keep ticking, and what you wear can influence your mood. Make it bright!
An easy go-to color, black is slimming and can be worn to work or for going out. But with so many colors out there, a burst of any of them can change your mood from black to bright! When searching your closet for something to wear, pick a color that catches your attention – it will be sure to catch the attention of others too.
Here are a few quick tips to brighten your day and the day of those around you.
1. Gentleman: Pick a bright colored shirt and a complementary tie to brighten your face and get you some attention.
Brooks Brothers – Available at Brooksbrothers.com
2. Ladies: To make your outfit fresh, use bright accessories! Throw on some colored high heels or a clutch, or even throw on several bangles with pops of color to catch the light as you move.
Pucci Multi Bangle & Alexis Bittar – Both available in Saks.com
And remember whatever goes down, must go up. Times will get better and life will keep ticking, and what you wear can influence your mood. Make it bright!
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