Fashion
alcrclothes
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Jeans
Jeans are trousers made from denim. Mainly designed for work, they became popular among teenagers starting in the 1950s. Historic brands include Levi's, Lee and Wrangler. Jeans come in various types, for example, skinny jeans, boot cut, or flare.
Jeans are now a very popular form of casual dress around the world, and have been so for decades. They come in many styles and colors; however, "blue jeans" are particularly identified with American culture, especially the American Old West. The American population spent more than $14 billion on jeans in 2004. The word "jeans" comes from the French phrase bleu de Gênes, literally the blue of Genoa. Jeans fabric, or denim, originated independently in two places: the French town of Nîmes, to which 'denim' owes its name; and in India, where trousers made of denim material were worn by the sailors of Dhunga, which came to be known as dungarees.
At the same time, denim trousers were made in Chieri, a town near Turin (Italy), during the Renaissance, and were popularised in the 19th century. These trousers were sold through the harbour of Genoa, which was the capital of the independent Republic of Genoa which was long an important naval and trading power. Early examples of trousers were made for the Genoese Navy, which required all-purpose pants for its sailors. They required pants that could be wet or dry, the legs of which could be worn while swabbing the deck. These were laundered by dragging them in nets behind the ship, and the sea water and sun would gradually bleach them to white. They were worn by Genoan sailors and stevedores in France.
Jeans are now a very popular form of casual dress around the world, and have been so for decades. They come in many styles and colors; however, "blue jeans" are particularly identified with American culture, especially the American Old West. The American population spent more than $14 billion on jeans in 2004. The word "jeans" comes from the French phrase bleu de Gênes, literally the blue of Genoa. Jeans fabric, or denim, originated independently in two places: the French town of Nîmes, to which 'denim' owes its name; and in India, where trousers made of denim material were worn by the sailors of Dhunga, which came to be known as dungarees.
At the same time, denim trousers were made in Chieri, a town near Turin (Italy), during the Renaissance, and were popularised in the 19th century. These trousers were sold through the harbour of Genoa, which was the capital of the independent Republic of Genoa which was long an important naval and trading power. Early examples of trousers were made for the Genoese Navy, which required all-purpose pants for its sailors. They required pants that could be wet or dry, the legs of which could be worn while swabbing the deck. These were laundered by dragging them in nets behind the ship, and the sea water and sun would gradually bleach them to white. They were worn by Genoan sailors and stevedores in France.
Fashion Trend-Tattoos
A tattoo is a marking made by inserting indelible ink into the layers of skin to change the pigment for decorative or other reasons. Tattoos on humans are a type of decorative body modification, while tattoos on animals are most commonly used for identification or branding. The term "tattoo" or from Tahiti, "Tatau" is first referenced by Joseph Banks, the naturalist aboard Cook's ship the "Endeavour" in 1769 where he mentions it in his journal. To paraphrase. he states, "I shall now mention the way they mark themselves indelibly, each of them is so marked by their humor or disposition".
Tattooing has been practiced worldwide. The Ainu, the indigenous people of Japan, traditionally wore facial tattoos. Today one can find Berbers of Tamazgha (North Africa), Māori of New Zealand, Arabic people in East-Turkey and Atayal of Taiwan with facial tattoos. Tattooing was widespread among Polynesian peoples and among certain tribal groups in the Taiwan, Philippines, Borneo, Mentawai Islands, Africa, North America, South America, Mesoamerica, Europe, Japan, Cambodia, New Zealand and Micronesia. Despite some taboos surrounding tattooing, the art continues to be popular in many parts of the world.
Tattooing has been practiced worldwide. The Ainu, the indigenous people of Japan, traditionally wore facial tattoos. Today one can find Berbers of Tamazgha (North Africa), Māori of New Zealand, Arabic people in East-Turkey and Atayal of Taiwan with facial tattoos. Tattooing was widespread among Polynesian peoples and among certain tribal groups in the Taiwan, Philippines, Borneo, Mentawai Islands, Africa, North America, South America, Mesoamerica, Europe, Japan, Cambodia, New Zealand and Micronesia. Despite some taboos surrounding tattooing, the art continues to be popular in many parts of the world.
Fashion trend- Fake nails
Gel nails are a cosmetic tool used to highlight the beauty of the hand. These days almost all of the women and even some men are generally quite conscious about the beauty of their hands and even more so about the length of their nails. However, it is not always very possible to be able to grow strong and unbreakable nails for everyone. Especially for working women this is a very big problem. Soft and brittle nails break easily. This can be very painful. The soft and fragile nails that are dead due to being made of hard material often break of very easily and leave the hand in a lot of pain. For this specific reason only, nowadays most of the women are finding it very difficult to grow nails. The one and only way now to make your wish of having long and durable finger nails can be made to come true if you use artificial nails. These nails are applied on to the surface of your already existing real nails. They are the most efficient artificial nails that are specifically designed and made in order to stick and stay stuck firmly on to your own natural nails.
These type of artificial nail do not chip off very easily making them more durable. Even to remove them there is a proper procedure other wise you can not even get them out without the proper removal procedure. Gel nails are by far now the safest way and the most economical tool that can be used to cover up and conceal person’s unattractive fingernails. The invention of this kind of artificial nails is one that has reduced the stress of women who have to use artificial nails. The artificial nails are found to be much better then any other artificial nail, this is primarily because they do not chip off. The color of gel nails is so perfectly embedded, there fore, these nails are known to remains fresh looking and maintaining that shiny texture for a much longer duration. This is a constant factor even at a time when nail polishes are applied over them and also removed.
You will never have the need to get them removed via an expensive treatment or procedure. These nails have a use time frame and they begin to detach themselves from the you own natural nails after that use duration is over. These types of nails do not need to be applied on from a special visit to the salon infact that is the beauty of these nails; one can apply them oneself at home.
For the working woman as well as the stay at home mom, Gel nails are very useful and handy. The hand doesn’t just look pretty if you apply a lot of treatments and procedures; rather you at home can apply these artificial nails and have gorgeous
These type of artificial nail do not chip off very easily making them more durable. Even to remove them there is a proper procedure other wise you can not even get them out without the proper removal procedure. Gel nails are by far now the safest way and the most economical tool that can be used to cover up and conceal person’s unattractive fingernails. The invention of this kind of artificial nails is one that has reduced the stress of women who have to use artificial nails. The artificial nails are found to be much better then any other artificial nail, this is primarily because they do not chip off. The color of gel nails is so perfectly embedded, there fore, these nails are known to remains fresh looking and maintaining that shiny texture for a much longer duration. This is a constant factor even at a time when nail polishes are applied over them and also removed.
You will never have the need to get them removed via an expensive treatment or procedure. These nails have a use time frame and they begin to detach themselves from the you own natural nails after that use duration is over. These types of nails do not need to be applied on from a special visit to the salon infact that is the beauty of these nails; one can apply them oneself at home.
For the working woman as well as the stay at home mom, Gel nails are very useful and handy. The hand doesn’t just look pretty if you apply a lot of treatments and procedures; rather you at home can apply these artificial nails and have gorgeous
Animal Fur Clothing
Fur is generally thought to have been among the first materials used for clothing and bodily decoration. The exact date when fur was first used in clothing is debated. It is known that several species of hominoids including Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis used fur clothing.
Nutria jacket, reversible (2008)
Fur is still worn in most countries and may be associated with lavish spending, although an increasing number of consumers and designers reject fur because of cruelty.Fur is still used by indigenous people and underdeveloped societies, due to its availability and insulation properties. The Inuit peoples of the Arctic relied on fur for most of their clothing, and it also forms a part of traditional Russian, Scandinavian and Japanese clothing.
Nutria jacket, reversible (2008)
Fur is still worn in most countries and may be associated with lavish spending, although an increasing number of consumers and designers reject fur because of cruelty.Fur is still used by indigenous people and underdeveloped societies, due to its availability and insulation properties. The Inuit peoples of the Arctic relied on fur for most of their clothing, and it also forms a part of traditional Russian, Scandinavian and Japanese clothing.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Purse
A handbag, or purse in American English, is a medium to large bag, often fashionably designed, typically used by women, and used to hold personal items such as wallet/coin purse, keys, tissues, cosmetics, a hairbrush, cellular device or personal digital assistant, feminine hygiene
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Cosmetics
Cosmetics are substances used to enhance the appearance or odor of the human body. Cosmetics include skin-care creams, lotions, powders, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail and toe nail polish, eye and facial makeup, permanent waves, colored contact lenses, hair colors, hair sprays and gels, deodorants, baby products, bath oils, bubble baths, bath salts, butters and many other types of products. A subset of cosmetics is called "make-up," which refers primarily to colored products intended to alter the user’s appearance. Many manufacturers distinguish between decorative cosmetics and care cosmetics.
The manufacture of cosmetics is currently dominated by a small number of multinational corporations that originated in the early 20th century, but the distribution and sale of cosmetics is spread among a wide range of different businesses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which regulates cosmetics in the United States[1] defines cosmetics as: "intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions." This broad definition includes, as well, any material intended for use as a component of a cosmetic product. The FDA specifically excludes soap from this category.
The manufacture of cosmetics is currently dominated by a small number of multinational corporations that originated in the early 20th century, but the distribution and sale of cosmetics is spread among a wide range of different businesses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which regulates cosmetics in the United States[1] defines cosmetics as: "intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions." This broad definition includes, as well, any material intended for use as a component of a cosmetic product. The FDA specifically excludes soap from this category.
fashion trend- nail polish
A nail polish (US) or nail varnish (UK) is a lacquer applied to toenails and fingernails for appearance, but also as nail protection. Polishing afterward without adding another chemical layer is called nail buffing. The Chinese used a colored lacquer, made from a combination of Arabic gum, egg whites, gelatin and beeswax. They also used a mixture consisting of mashed rose, orchid and impatiens petals combined with alum. This mixture, when applied to nails for a few hours or overnight, leaves a color ranging from pink to red. The Egyptians used reddish-brown stains derived from henna to color their nails as well as the tips of their fingers. Henna dyes are used to draw intricate, temporary designs on hands in Mehndi. Chou Dynasty of 600 B.C., Chinese royalty used gold and silver to enhance their nails. A fifteenth-century Ming manuscript cites red and black as the colors chosen by royalty for centuries previous.The Egyptians used nail color to signify social order, with shades of red at the top. Queen Nefertiti, the wife of the king Akhenaton, colored her finger and toe nails ruby red; Cleopatra favored a deep rust red Women of lower rank who colored their nails were permitted only pale hues. Incas decorated their fingernails with pictures of eagles. Some Native Americans had colorful nails. It is unclear how the practice of coloring nails progressed following these beginnings. Portraits from the 17th and 18th centuries include shiny nails. By the turn of the 19th century, nails were tinted with scented red oils and polished or buffed with a chamois cloth, rather than simply painted. In addition, English and US 19th century cookbooks contained directions for making nail paints. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, women still pursued a polished, rather than painted, look by massaging tinted powders and creams into their nails, then buffing them shiny. One such polishing product sold around this time was Graf’s Hyglo nail polish paste. Some women during this period painted their nails using a clear, glossy varnish applied with camel-hair brushes. When automobile paint was created around 1920, it inspired the introduction of colored nail enamels. Nail polish contains nitrocellulose which is available in many different grades and is measured by viscosity. Nail grade nitrocellulose should be used for nail polish, as opposed to industrial grade which is available for use in furniture finishes, auto-paints and other various non-cosmetic lacquer finishes. Nail polish manufacturers are known to use industrial grade nitrocellulose covertly to save money, as it is half the price of the nail grade nitro.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Body piercings
A body piercing is exactly that — a piercing or puncture made in your body by a needle. After that, a piece of jewelry is inserted into the puncture. The most popular pierced body parts seem to be the ears, the nostrils, and the belly button.
If the person performing the piercing provides a safe, clean, and professional environment, this is what you should expect from getting a body part pierced:
The area you've chosen to be pierced (except for the tongue) is cleaned with a germicidal soap (a soap that kills disease-causing bacteria and microorganisms).
Your skin is then punctured with a very sharp, clean needle.
The piece of jewelry, which has already been sterilized, is attached to the area.
The person performing the piercing disposes of the needle in a special container so that there is no risk of the needle or blood touching someone else.
The pierced area is cleaned.
The person performing the piercing checks and adjusts the jewelry.
The person performing the piercing gives you instructions on how to make sure your new piercing heals correctly and what to do if there is a problem.
If you're thinking about getting pierced, do your research first. If you're under 18, some places won't allow you to get a piercing without a parent's consent. It's a good idea to find out what risks are involved and how best to protect yourself from infections and other complications.
Certain sites on the body can cause more problems than others — infection is a common complication of mouth and nose piercings because of the millions of bacteria that live in those areas. Tongue piercings can damage teeth over time. And tongue, cheek, and lip piercings can cause gum problems.
Studies have shown that people with certain types of heart disease might have a higher risk of developing a heart infection after body piercing. If you have a medical problem such as allergies, diabetes, skin disorders, a condition that affects your immune system, or infections — or if you are pregnant — ask your doctor if there are any special concerns you should have or precautions you should take beforehand. Also, it's not a good idea to get a body piercing if you're prone to getting keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue in the area of the wound).
If the person performing the piercing provides a safe, clean, and professional environment, this is what you should expect from getting a body part pierced:
The area you've chosen to be pierced (except for the tongue) is cleaned with a germicidal soap (a soap that kills disease-causing bacteria and microorganisms).
Your skin is then punctured with a very sharp, clean needle.
The piece of jewelry, which has already been sterilized, is attached to the area.
The person performing the piercing disposes of the needle in a special container so that there is no risk of the needle or blood touching someone else.
The pierced area is cleaned.
The person performing the piercing checks and adjusts the jewelry.
The person performing the piercing gives you instructions on how to make sure your new piercing heals correctly and what to do if there is a problem.
If you're thinking about getting pierced, do your research first. If you're under 18, some places won't allow you to get a piercing without a parent's consent. It's a good idea to find out what risks are involved and how best to protect yourself from infections and other complications.
Certain sites on the body can cause more problems than others — infection is a common complication of mouth and nose piercings because of the millions of bacteria that live in those areas. Tongue piercings can damage teeth over time. And tongue, cheek, and lip piercings can cause gum problems.
Studies have shown that people with certain types of heart disease might have a higher risk of developing a heart infection after body piercing. If you have a medical problem such as allergies, diabetes, skin disorders, a condition that affects your immune system, or infections — or if you are pregnant — ask your doctor if there are any special concerns you should have or precautions you should take beforehand. Also, it's not a good idea to get a body piercing if you're prone to getting keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue in the area of the wound).
Friday, March 12, 2010
Alfred Sung
In 1972, Alfred Sung moved to Canada. His next step was designing for a sportswear manufacturer in Toronto's garment district. His exceptional fashion illustration skills allowed him to supplement his junior designer's wages for freelance projects. With the encouragement of friends and limited savings, he set out on his own. Sung opened a tiny shop called Moon in Toronto's trendy Yorkville neighbourhood.
By 1989, Saul and Joseph Mimran together with Sung joined forces to create a business that soon changed the face of the Canadian fashion industry. In 1980, the three partners formed Monaco Group Inc., the corporate entity that would develop the Alfred Sung brand and the ready-to-wear collection directed to working women. Within months, the Alfred Sung brand appeared in major department and specialty stores across Canada. In 1981, the Alfred Sung label was launched in the United States through Saks Fifth Avenue. Within a year, the clothing appeared in stores such as Macy's, Nordstrom's, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. That same year, Sung opened his first freestanding store in Toronto's prestigious Hazelton Lanes. It was in 1983 that Canada's national news magazine, MacLean's, proclaimed Alfred Sung as Canada's "King of Fashion."[citation needed]
The Alfred Sung trademark had gained notability in Europe for its fashions, however, in 1986 with the launch of Parfums Alfred Sung, through Riviera Concepts, the Sung trademark further raised its profile and status by becoming a renowned fragrance brand. Sung by Alfred Sung, the first ladies' perfume launched in 1986, was followed by Shi Alfred Sung in 2001 and Alfred Sung Paradise in 2003. In 2005 a new signature fragrance, Jewel Alfred Sung was launched.
By 1989, Saul and Joseph Mimran together with Sung joined forces to create a business that soon changed the face of the Canadian fashion industry. In 1980, the three partners formed Monaco Group Inc., the corporate entity that would develop the Alfred Sung brand and the ready-to-wear collection directed to working women. Within months, the Alfred Sung brand appeared in major department and specialty stores across Canada. In 1981, the Alfred Sung label was launched in the United States through Saks Fifth Avenue. Within a year, the clothing appeared in stores such as Macy's, Nordstrom's, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. That same year, Sung opened his first freestanding store in Toronto's prestigious Hazelton Lanes. It was in 1983 that Canada's national news magazine, MacLean's, proclaimed Alfred Sung as Canada's "King of Fashion."[citation needed]
The Alfred Sung trademark had gained notability in Europe for its fashions, however, in 1986 with the launch of Parfums Alfred Sung, through Riviera Concepts, the Sung trademark further raised its profile and status by becoming a renowned fragrance brand. Sung by Alfred Sung, the first ladies' perfume launched in 1986, was followed by Shi Alfred Sung in 2001 and Alfred Sung Paradise in 2003. In 2005 a new signature fragrance, Jewel Alfred Sung was launched.
Patrick Cox
Patrick Cox is a Canadian-British fashion designer and an eponymous fashion label specializing in the creation of shoes, leather goods and accessories. Cox is most noted for the use of unusual materials and a mixture of Avant-garde and traditional styles.
Born 19 March, 1963, in Edmonton, Canada, Cox was educated locally, except for periods when his father's work led the family to postings in Nigeria, Chad and Cameroon. Cox eventually graduated from school in Edmonton Canada and moved to Toronto on his own when he was 17.
Born 19 March, 1963, in Edmonton, Canada, Cox was educated locally, except for periods when his father's work led the family to postings in Nigeria, Chad and Cameroon. Cox eventually graduated from school in Edmonton Canada and moved to Toronto on his own when he was 17.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Vivienne Westwood
Westwood was born as Vivienne Isabel Swire in the village of Tintwistle, Derbyshire[N 1] on 8 April, 1941. She studied at the Harrow School of Art, later to attend the University of Westminster, for one term. Vivienne went on to attend Middlesex University's Trent Park College and later taught at a primary school in North London.[2] Westwood also attended and graduated from Goldsmiths, University of London
The English Punk style began to gain attention when the Sex Pistols wore clothes from Westwood and McLaren's shop at their first gig. The "punk style" included BDSM fashion, bondage gear, safety pins, razor blades, bicycle or lavatory chains on clothing and spiked dog collars for jewelry, as well as outrageous make-up and hair. Essential design elements include the adoption of traditional elements of Scottish design such as tartan fabric. Amongst the more unusual elements of her style is the use of historical 17th and 18th century cloth cutting principles, and reinterpreting these in, for instance, radical cutting lines to mens trousers. Use of these traditional elements make the overall effect of her designs more shocking. Other influences in Westwood's work have included Peru, the feminine figure, velvet and knitwear.[citation needed]
Westwood and McLaren worked together to revolutionize fashion and their impact is still strongly felt today. Westwood has five exclusively-owned shops; three in London, one in Leeds, and one in Milan.[citation needed] Franchise stores are located in Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, three in Manchester and most recently, in FH Mall, Nottingham (20 March 2008), and in Blake Street, York (11 September 2008). Westwood's themes have included Savage (1981), Hobo and Buffalo (1982), and Pirate. Her latest collection was themed "Gold and Treasure, Adventure and Exploration"
The English Punk style began to gain attention when the Sex Pistols wore clothes from Westwood and McLaren's shop at their first gig. The "punk style" included BDSM fashion, bondage gear, safety pins, razor blades, bicycle or lavatory chains on clothing and spiked dog collars for jewelry, as well as outrageous make-up and hair. Essential design elements include the adoption of traditional elements of Scottish design such as tartan fabric. Amongst the more unusual elements of her style is the use of historical 17th and 18th century cloth cutting principles, and reinterpreting these in, for instance, radical cutting lines to mens trousers. Use of these traditional elements make the overall effect of her designs more shocking. Other influences in Westwood's work have included Peru, the feminine figure, velvet and knitwear.[citation needed]
Westwood and McLaren worked together to revolutionize fashion and their impact is still strongly felt today. Westwood has five exclusively-owned shops; three in London, one in Leeds, and one in Milan.[citation needed] Franchise stores are located in Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, three in Manchester and most recently, in FH Mall, Nottingham (20 March 2008), and in Blake Street, York (11 September 2008). Westwood's themes have included Savage (1981), Hobo and Buffalo (1982), and Pirate. Her latest collection was themed "Gold and Treasure, Adventure and Exploration"
Jimmy Choo
The Paris years (1949-1959)
Valentino became interested in men and women's fashion while in primary school in his native Voghera, Lombardy, northern Italy, when he apprenticed under his aunt Rosa and local designer Ernestina Salvadeo, an aunt of noted artist Aldo Giorgini). At 17, Valentino moved to Paris to pursue this interest with the help of his mother Teresa de Biaggi and his father Mauro Garavani. There he studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts and at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.
His first choice in Paris was Jacques Fath, then Balenciaga. He then found apprentice jobs with Jean Desses where he used to help style icon countess Jacqueline de Ribes sketch her dress ideas. He then joined Guy Laroche for 2 years. At Desses, Valentino sketched furiously, between helping with window dressing and greeting clients for the daily 2:30 p.m. private showings. Most of his early sketches were lost. At a Rome exhibition in 1991 a smattering went on display and current clients at that time such as Marie Hélène de Rothschild and Elizabeth Taylor marveled that the DNA of Valentino's style was already apparent in the layers of white pleats and animal prints.
A wedding dress by Valentino
After five years, Valentino left Jean Desses under a cloud over an incident about prolonging a vacation in St. Tropez that still makes him wriggle uncomfortably today. Rescued by his friend Guy Laroche, he joined his "tiny, tiny" fashion house. After discussions with his parents, he decided to return to Italy and set up in Rome in 1959.
Valentino became interested in men and women's fashion while in primary school in his native Voghera, Lombardy, northern Italy, when he apprenticed under his aunt Rosa and local designer Ernestina Salvadeo, an aunt of noted artist Aldo Giorgini). At 17, Valentino moved to Paris to pursue this interest with the help of his mother Teresa de Biaggi and his father Mauro Garavani. There he studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts and at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.
His first choice in Paris was Jacques Fath, then Balenciaga. He then found apprentice jobs with Jean Desses where he used to help style icon countess Jacqueline de Ribes sketch her dress ideas. He then joined Guy Laroche for 2 years. At Desses, Valentino sketched furiously, between helping with window dressing and greeting clients for the daily 2:30 p.m. private showings. Most of his early sketches were lost. At a Rome exhibition in 1991 a smattering went on display and current clients at that time such as Marie Hélène de Rothschild and Elizabeth Taylor marveled that the DNA of Valentino's style was already apparent in the layers of white pleats and animal prints.
A wedding dress by Valentino
After five years, Valentino left Jean Desses under a cloud over an incident about prolonging a vacation in St. Tropez that still makes him wriggle uncomfortably today. Rescued by his friend Guy Laroche, he joined his "tiny, tiny" fashion house. After discussions with his parents, he decided to return to Italy and set up in Rome in 1959.
valentino Garavani
The Paris years (1949-1959)
Valentino became interested in men and women's fashion while in primary school in his native Voghera, Lombardy, northern Italy, when he apprenticed under his aunt Rosa and local designer Ernestina Salvadeo, an aunt of noted artist Aldo Giorgini). At 17, Valentino moved to Paris to pursue this interest with the help of his mother Teresa de Biaggi and his father Mauro Garavani. There he studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts and at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.
His first choice in Paris was Jacques Fath, then Balenciaga. He then found apprentice jobs with Jean Desses where he used to help style icon countess Jacqueline de Ribes sketch her dress ideas. He then joined Guy Laroche for 2 years. At Desses, Valentino sketched furiously, between helping with window dressing and greeting clients for the daily 2:30 p.m. private showings. Most of his early sketches were lost. At a Rome exhibition in 1991 a smattering went on display and current clients at that time such as Marie Hélène de Rothschild and Elizabeth Taylor marveled that the DNA of Valentino's style was already apparent in the layers of white pleats and animal prints.
A wedding dress by Valentino
After five years, Valentino left Jean Desses under a cloud over an incident about prolonging a vacation in St. Tropez that still makes him wriggle uncomfortably today. Rescued by his friend Guy Laroche, he joined his "tiny, tiny" fashion house. After discussions with his parents, he decided to return to Italy and set up in Rome in 1959.
Valentino became interested in men and women's fashion while in primary school in his native Voghera, Lombardy, northern Italy, when he apprenticed under his aunt Rosa and local designer Ernestina Salvadeo, an aunt of noted artist Aldo Giorgini). At 17, Valentino moved to Paris to pursue this interest with the help of his mother Teresa de Biaggi and his father Mauro Garavani. There he studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts and at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.
His first choice in Paris was Jacques Fath, then Balenciaga. He then found apprentice jobs with Jean Desses where he used to help style icon countess Jacqueline de Ribes sketch her dress ideas. He then joined Guy Laroche for 2 years. At Desses, Valentino sketched furiously, between helping with window dressing and greeting clients for the daily 2:30 p.m. private showings. Most of his early sketches were lost. At a Rome exhibition in 1991 a smattering went on display and current clients at that time such as Marie Hélène de Rothschild and Elizabeth Taylor marveled that the DNA of Valentino's style was already apparent in the layers of white pleats and animal prints.
A wedding dress by Valentino
After five years, Valentino left Jean Desses under a cloud over an incident about prolonging a vacation in St. Tropez that still makes him wriggle uncomfortably today. Rescued by his friend Guy Laroche, he joined his "tiny, tiny" fashion house. After discussions with his parents, he decided to return to Italy and set up in Rome in 1959.
Giorgio Armani
Armani was born in Piacenza. From 1961 to 1970, he worked as an assistant designer at a fashion house Nino Cerruti, where he designed for the menswear label "Hitman". In 1970, he left the company to pursue freelance work. He partnered with Sergio Galeotti to establish a menswear label Armani in 1974, and introduced a women's wear line in 1975. His sister Rosanna Armani subsequently joined him. Galeotti died of a heart attack in 1985 at his home in Milan.[3]
Armani achieved his international breakthrough by tailoring for numerous Hollywood names and especially for Richard Gere in the title role of American Gigolo in 1980. In 2001, Forbes named him the most successful Italian designer and estimated his net worth at $1.7 billion. He was given the same award five years later, as the magazine estimated his fortune at $4.1 billion.
Armani achieved his international breakthrough by tailoring for numerous Hollywood names and especially for Richard Gere in the title role of American Gigolo in 1980. In 2001, Forbes named him the most successful Italian designer and estimated his net worth at $1.7 billion. He was given the same award five years later, as the magazine estimated his fortune at $4.1 billion.
Gucci
Gucci was founded in 1921 by Guccio Gucci. In 1938, Gucci expanded and a boutique was opened in Rome. Guccio was responsible for designing many of the company's products. In 1947, Gucci introduced the bamboo handle handbag, which is still a company mainstay. During the 1950s, Gucci also developed the trademark striped webbing, which was derived from the saddle girth, and the suede moccasin with a metal horsebit.
His wife Aida Calvelli had a large family, though only the sons—Vasco, Aldo,Ugo, and Rodolfo—would play a role in leading the company. After Guccio's death in 1953, Aldo helped lead the company to a position of International prominence, opening the company’s first boutique in New York. Rodolfo initially tried to start an acting career as a matinee idol but soon returned to help direct the company. Even in Gucci’s fledgling years, the family was notorious for its ferocious infighting. Disputes regarding inheritances, stock holdings, and day-to-day operations of the stores often divided the family and led to alliances. Gucci expanded overseas, board meetings about the company’s future often ended with tempers flaring and luggage and purses flying. Gucci targeted the Far East for further expansion in the late 1960s, opening stores in Hong Kong and Tokyo. At that time, the company also developed its famous GG logo (Guccio Gucci's initials), the Flora silk scarf (worn prominently by Hollywood actress Grace Kelly), and the Jackie O shoulder bag, made famous by Jackie Kennedy, the wife of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
Gucci remained one of the premier luxury goods establishments in the world until the late 1970s, when a series of disastrous business decisions and family quarrels brought the company to the verge of bankruptcy. At the time, brothers Aldo and Rodolfo controlled equal 50% shares of the company, though Rodolfo contributed less to the company than Aldo and his sons did. In 1979, Aldo developed the Gucci Accessories Collection, or GAC, intended to bolster the sales for the Gucci Perfumes sector, which his sons controlled. GAC consisted of small accessories, such as cosmetic bags, lighters, and pens, which were priced at considerably lower points than the other items in the company’s accessories catalogue. Aldo relegated control of Perfumes to his son Roberto in an effort to weaken Rodolfo’s control of the overall operations of the company.
Though the Gucci Accessories Collection was well received, it proved to be the force that brought the Gucci dynasty crashing down.
His wife Aida Calvelli had a large family, though only the sons—Vasco, Aldo,Ugo, and Rodolfo—would play a role in leading the company. After Guccio's death in 1953, Aldo helped lead the company to a position of International prominence, opening the company’s first boutique in New York. Rodolfo initially tried to start an acting career as a matinee idol but soon returned to help direct the company. Even in Gucci’s fledgling years, the family was notorious for its ferocious infighting. Disputes regarding inheritances, stock holdings, and day-to-day operations of the stores often divided the family and led to alliances. Gucci expanded overseas, board meetings about the company’s future often ended with tempers flaring and luggage and purses flying. Gucci targeted the Far East for further expansion in the late 1960s, opening stores in Hong Kong and Tokyo. At that time, the company also developed its famous GG logo (Guccio Gucci's initials), the Flora silk scarf (worn prominently by Hollywood actress Grace Kelly), and the Jackie O shoulder bag, made famous by Jackie Kennedy, the wife of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.
Gucci remained one of the premier luxury goods establishments in the world until the late 1970s, when a series of disastrous business decisions and family quarrels brought the company to the verge of bankruptcy. At the time, brothers Aldo and Rodolfo controlled equal 50% shares of the company, though Rodolfo contributed less to the company than Aldo and his sons did. In 1979, Aldo developed the Gucci Accessories Collection, or GAC, intended to bolster the sales for the Gucci Perfumes sector, which his sons controlled. GAC consisted of small accessories, such as cosmetic bags, lighters, and pens, which were priced at considerably lower points than the other items in the company’s accessories catalogue. Aldo relegated control of Perfumes to his son Roberto in an effort to weaken Rodolfo’s control of the overall operations of the company.
Though the Gucci Accessories Collection was well received, it proved to be the force that brought the Gucci dynasty crashing down.
Mini skirts
Mary Quant was one of the style pioneers of Swinging London - she introduced the bewildered world to not only patterned tights, not only Jean Shrimpton, not only the very concept of a high street fashion boutique... But also... the Mini! Mary Quant, we salute you!
Before the 1960s there was little to no fashion created specifically for teenage youth - only children's wear and adult's fashion. This was before the iconic Mary Quant opened 'Bazaar', one of the first boutiques of its kind. 'Bazaar' was entirely dedicated to teenage youth, filled with skinny-rib jumpers, knee high boots, white detachable collars, and - of course - the legendary Mini skirt.
Quant studied illustration at Goldsmith College before she opened Bazaar underneath her husband's London restaurant. In 1966 she was awarded a OBE for her contribution to the fashion industry and also won the first award for 'Dress of the year'. Huzzah!
Since about 1958, skirts have become progressively shorter, and although Quant didn't essentially invent the mini skirt (which is said to have descended from the 1957 sack dress), she was nevertheless the first to design and market it successfully to the younger market. Mary Quant saw the Mini to be both liberating and practical, and therefore particularly relevant to teenage youth in her era.
Before the 1960s there was little to no fashion created specifically for teenage youth - only children's wear and adult's fashion. This was before the iconic Mary Quant opened 'Bazaar', one of the first boutiques of its kind. 'Bazaar' was entirely dedicated to teenage youth, filled with skinny-rib jumpers, knee high boots, white detachable collars, and - of course - the legendary Mini skirt.
Quant studied illustration at Goldsmith College before she opened Bazaar underneath her husband's London restaurant. In 1966 she was awarded a OBE for her contribution to the fashion industry and also won the first award for 'Dress of the year'. Huzzah!
Since about 1958, skirts have become progressively shorter, and although Quant didn't essentially invent the mini skirt (which is said to have descended from the 1957 sack dress), she was nevertheless the first to design and market it successfully to the younger market. Mary Quant saw the Mini to be both liberating and practical, and therefore particularly relevant to teenage youth in her era.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Birkenstock
Birkenstock Footprint Sandals, Inc. is the primary U.S. distributor for Birkenstock Original Contoured Footbed products made by Germany's Birkenstock Orthopädie GmbH. The Birkenstock family of Germany has a long history in the shoemaking trade. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, the company marketed orthopedic shoe inserts. In the 1960s, Birkenstock used the principles behind these products to create a homey-looking sandal, designed with comfort foremost in mind. After these shoes were introduced to the United States in the late 1960s, they gained popularity with hippies and academics and were sold mainly in health food stores before reaching a mass market in the late 1980s. In 2001 Birkenstock was selling sandals, clogs, shoes, and boots in over 400 styles, colors, or materials to men, women, and children. Top fashion designers in the United States and Europe use Birkenstocks in their shows emphasizing the latest trends. Specialized Birkenstocks are sold to podiatrists, other health professionals, sports enthusiasts, computer workers, and others in niche markets. Birkenstock Footprint Sandals, also known as Birkenstock USA, sells its products in company-owned stores in San Francisco and Berkeley, California; company-owned mall outlet stores in Gilroy, California, Wrentham, Massachusetts, and Orlando, Florida; over 160 licensed stores; and over 3,500 retail shoe stores and department stores, including Nordstrom, REI, Parisian, and Macy's.Birkenstock Footprint Sandals, Inc. is the primary U.S. distributor for Birkenstock Original Contoured Footbed products made by Germany's Birkenstock Orthopädie GmbH. The Birkenstock family of Germany has a long history in the shoemaking trade. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, the company marketed orthopedic shoe inserts. In the 1960s, Birkenstock used the principles behind these products to create a homey-looking sandal, designed with comfort foremost in mind. After these shoes were introduced to the United States in the late 1960s, they gained popularity with hippies and academics and were sold mainly in health food stores before reaching a mass market in the late 1980s. In 2001 Birkenstock was selling sandals, clogs, shoes, and boots in over 400 styles, colors, or materials to men, women, and children. Top fashion designers in the United States and Europe use Birkenstocks in their shows emphasizing the latest trends. Specialized Birkenstocks are sold to podiatrists, other health professionals, sports enthusiasts, computer workers, and others in niche markets. Birkenstock Footprint Sandals, also known as Birkenstock USA, sells its products in company-owned stores in San Francisco and Berkeley, California; company-owned mall outlet stores in Gilroy, California, Wrentham, Massachusetts, and Orlando, Florida; over 160 licensed stores; and over 3,500 retail shoe stores and department stores, including Nordstrom, REI, Parisian, and Macy's.
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