Style Maker: I'm channeling Diana Vreeland!

 The One, The Only:  Diana Vreeland

“I loathe narcissism, but I approve of vanity”

Anyone that knows me well will tell you that I have 3 Achilles Heels -- and they all somehow have something to do with beauty:

1. Beauty of Self: My Hair Color / Style: I change my hair ideas all the time -- it's ridiculous!  I am never satisfied & I haven't succeeded in growing my hair beyond my shoulders since like 5th grade!

2. Beauty of Life: How to make enough money to afford my passion which is Dance & Ballet; &

3. Beauty of Home: How to choose the right color/decor for my Apartment.

Let's face it: I am Aesthete. And I've had about enough of this back and forth and back and forth roller coaster of indecisive action, reaction, re-reaction etc etc. So I asked myself --- what does one do when one can't decide? Hmm.... well it seems most often people turn to others to ask advice.  Except all of my friends are SICK of hearing about these same issues -- so that won't do.  I can't afford a therapist right now... so hmmmmmm..... Well, in true artist fashion, how about turn to the dead?

And so this is what began me down my path towards channeling Diana Vreeland.  For those of you who don't know Diana -- well let's put it like this: She is THE woman of style and as such she is positively, absolutely, always, definitively correct.  (In fact you can read more about her right here!)  And just as many folks who love Jesus wear that little bracelet that says WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) I am asking myself WWDVD?

And wouldn't ya know? Just like the Good Lord, she answered! See our channeled interview below:

MB:  (Madame B): Dame Diana I don't know what to do.....My hair! My Career! My Home!
DV: "For Hair -- Find something that sets off the skin and eyes -- then grow it so you can see the options -- you can always cut it again"



Ok so, her's was Pale Ivory with Coal eyes, so she chose Raven Black.  Mine is Pale Olive with Green Eyes -- So it's a Red of course -- and I've mostly found the perfect shade!  

MB:  My career is all over the place.  I know what I want but no idea how to get there -- it all seems so unaffordable, undoable.
DV : "If you always seek money first, well you will always get money, first."

I say that's scary and I'm in debt -- but ya know what? Having a 9-5 job didn't really change that too much -- right? RIGHT!  

MB:  "I've tried over 8 shades in my apartment and I just can't decide."
DV: "All indecision is cured by RED!"
MB:  "Uhm...are you sure?" "It's the hardest color to paint!"
DV:  "Don't question me dear. Just do it."
MB: "Gulp".  
DV:  "RED! NOW"

So I went directly to Home Depot -- I bought a gallon of Vermillion by Martha Stewart! -- in Semi-Gloss -- I've painted my Entry and Living Room and it looks FANTASTIC! It will only take about 4 more coats to look even -- but my dreams of living inside a Russian Tea Room are that much closer to reality!

Diana Vreeland -- I (HEART) You!

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UPDATE:  THE MORNING AFTER:  OK so after my nightlong channeling session with DV, a few coats of RED paint and then finally, some sleep -- UHM. THIS RED? ON THESE WALLS? NOT GONNA WORK.  It's way too bright for my eyes -- I have a headache.  Sorry DV, but I don't have Billy Baldwin up my sleeve.... hmmmm.... seems like I'm back to reality with Tobacco Road. 

Thank God for Primer!

B.

EAT AT HOME: Snow Equals Food. Not Fashion!

FASHION IS A CULT. I am learning this swiftly, as after just 8 days absorbed in that world I am feeling positively guilty for not writing more -- even though I am NOT a fashion writer per se -- or any type of writer at all! In fact, I started this little Blog as a sort of playful thing to do when I was trying to figure out "what to do next" after a particularly rough episode in the ballet studio. I had no grand plans but just knew that if I didn't do something, I would surely breakdown, because after having an entire 'free year' on unemployment, with very direct goals and focus, only to realize that I was trapped in a sort of web of 'OPI' (other people's issues), I knew that I had to get out of that funk and fast!

So this little blog is simply my own exercise in my freedom of expression: that is freedom to not dance if I'm not really wanting to that day, to bitch as I see fit, to rant, to rave, to not write when I am uninspired, to entertain myself however I please... you get the point! And I of course love the fact that you, my dear readers, love it too! I know you were all excited about Fashion Week and I do promise more -- but the truth is it is EXHAUSTING to write about such after going through that circus! And further, I am interviewing roommates for my home, one of my favorite friend's is moving to Chicago, I can't get back to Ballet until tomorrow, I need some income AND IT'S SNOWING!

So, I aptly named this post: Snow Equals Food. Not Fashion.

So it is. Today I am making one of my all time favorite recipes, which I stumbled upon over at Smitten Kitchen and thought "YES! That's what I'll do today!" It is snowing here in NYC and the flakes are so beautiful this time around, like small little snow fairy's lighting up the sky. I especially enjoy watching this from inside my home and love the Norman Rockwell feel of standing over the stove watching the snow from my kitchen window! Delightful!

I was originally introduced to this recipe by a gentleman friend who was trying to woo me with his knife skills and 1000 count bedsheets (from FRETTE!). Woo he did, because I was simply stunned by how simple and incredibly delicious his recipes were! (He made this plus an amazing Asparagus Salad and FLAN!) There is something to be said for the Amateur Course over at FCI, where he had just taken his basics class. Add in some red wine, a view of the city from his enormous windows on the East Side and those sheets...we had a very nice evening! Below, I give his recipe, but you can go over to Smitten Kitchen to gather further details and her take on it!

Seductively Simple Tomato Sauce

1. 1 28 ounce can of Whole San Marzano Tomatoes **
(from Cierello's at the Grand Central Market! or if you can't find get a good brand of canned plum tomatoes)
2. 1 large Spanish or Vidalia Onion, peeled and halved.
3. 1 Stick of Unsalted Butter *** NOT MARGARINE.

THAT'S IT.

Take the can of tomatoes and open them and then put them in heavy bottom 3 qt. pot.
Add 1/2 of a large onion. (or 2 halves of a smaller onion)
Add the stick of butter

Turn on the heat to MED and bring to a simmer.
Lower to LOW and cook for about 45 minutes or until the tomatoes break down, and you can't take the wait any further.

Stir and Mash it up a few times while cooking to encourage the bloom of the tomatoes! add Salt to taste if ya like, but usually you don't need. VOILA

Serve over curly pasta, or fettuccine, with or without Parm.
Serve over simple Ricotta and Basil Ravioli.
Or eat out of the pot alone!

YUMMY TUM TUM!

Mdme. B.

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**The FCI has their students actually halve and de-seed the tomatoes -- a lot of work for sure and of course it's a much smoother, silky result. However this job is best left for a man! I can't bother messing up my manicure!

*** Smitten Kitchen goes lighter on this, by using only 5 TBS.
But for me Butter = Love. I say go heavy on the Love!

Fashion Week In Review: Fall 2010

Ok so it's Monday after Fashion Week and while I am positively spent, I will keep my word to do a week long review of the events, etc etc. (But be warned my sass has fizzled. I can't even hang with myself right now. )

Today's focus is on the overall direction of the collections for Fall 2010. Certainly feminine touches and even glamour (You know I'm a Glamor Whore!) are playing a large role in the collections. Rather than being overtly sexy, the clothes for fall will be romantic, nostalgic and feminine in a more sophisticated and charming manner. The Vixen seems to be missing this fall -- she only ducked her head in a few times -- with many Designers relying on a more natural feminine beauty that is heavy on draping and gorgeous fabrics versus shocking statements (of course with the exception of the few "statement" lines such as Richie Rich, etc.). In general the Fall 2010 will bring in a much more dressed up, sparkling feel -- but in a very comfortable, come-hither manner. Even the very dressy, suited collections had a sort of relaxed, laissez faire mood about them -- and I approve! Looking elegant from something that looks like you just "threw it on" -- this is a challenge that seems to have come directly from Master of Ceremonies, Tim Gunn himself -- and the Designers all seem to be taking it on full throttle! Happily, many of these looks actually improve on a more curvaceous figure!

Many lines seemed to have been inspired from movies of a certain age, hearkening back the Old Hollywood Regency sort of feel. Fur and Leather work were highlighted throughout many of the lines with the makeup palate seeming to diverge from the pop pastels we will see this Spring into simple nude tones with a stronger red/cola lip. Hair is kept simple, long and straight -- with low-side ponytails and 1940's waves in place. Christian Siriano's show certainly got my award for Best Hair. The Aveda Team did a miracle on these models! Their hair looked polished, glossy and enviable -- and whose hair but a model's is more prone to overworking and damage? I say Aveda might have something magical in their toolbox.

Colors are by and large relying on a palate of Navy, Black and Jeweled Autumn Tones of Bronze, Periwinkled Purple and of course a few brighter reds, fuschias, teals and PLAIDS! The pairing of Navy and Black can be tricky but what I learned this season is that if the Navy is on the side of a blackened sort of cobalt, it can certainly work -- and actually serves to carry of an Art Deco effect. Winter Whites were also seen throughout more than one line, but is carried through in the clothes as a sort of sophisticated detail versus feeling as one is wrapped in the color entirely --the exception being that Costa used this color to a beautiful engorging effect in the Calvin Klein Women's line this season and I love the coats particularly! BEAUTIFUL! Caramel Bronze was also seen in more than one show -- showing up in Mackage in their amazing leathers and wools and then in the satins and silk of a variety of other designers... brown has taken on a much richer hue for the fall and I couldn't be more thrilled about that -- as I am ever so tired of seeing the same old bittersweet chocolate brown. The infusion of warmth into what can often be very dulling, Fall's palate serves not only as nice refresher of the Autumn Hues but will also prove so much more flattering on many of we humans, the wearers of such garments.

Trends:

Great BIG Belts: Think wide and cinching -- paired with pants, skirts & dresses these wonderful accessories were everywhere on the runway --and are capable of giving even the most challenged a waist!

Shoulders/Clavicles: One of my most favorite parts to the female form, I am happy to see them highlighted in many of the evening looks. Off the Shoulder sweaters, asymmetrical dresses -- get ready to flash your delts this fall!

Opaque Colored Tights: Yep, colorful legs are in! With the shopping economy remaining a bit standoffish, many Designers found this a clever way to make a statement without making the entire outfit a one season fling! Keeping the actual clothes versatile and wearing a fun leg will prove a favorite his fall! Kid Sister TAVI takes it even further and wears 2 colors on her legs!

I'm not sure what more to write here-- by now all the collections are on the internet, and well after spending 8 days chatting about the validity and originality of the concepts and clothing BLAH BLAH BLAH -- just how original can we be 2,010 years AD? I'm not saying there was nothing original but for me I could care less if something is original - I'd rather have beautiful! I mean have you heard of the Artist who exhibits a vivisection of horses and other animals as art? THAT'S ORIGINAL, PEOPLE! but I don't want to look at it!

Anyhoo, I can't seem to clear my brain right now ! I'm at the bottom of the Fashion Press Bowl -- and as such I spent my time running from one show to another -- sort of half starry eyed, running through Wonderland like Alice -- and well, a pant is a pant is a pant! Spending the entire 8 days in the tents I missed out on a few of the more "bold star" collections such as Rodarte who everyone just raves and raves about -- but when I saw it on screen I was like "Oh, ok, its cool but I'm not wearing all of that!" I missed The Olsen Twins -- who I've heard both Rants and Raves about; some people hated & others loved! Could it be possible that these two could be talented with fashion?? It may not be the first assumption we make about them based on their previous exploits, but I for one know that it can sometimes be a very twisted, winding road to our Chosen Endeavor of First Choice (will I EVER work in Ballet?!)

Definitely, I am feeling that all of my readers MUST check out my most favorite writer (maybe even my most favorite almost acquaintance here in NYC! -- she took my picture with her friend's bunny rabbit and by week's end I think she recognized my coat!) Lynn Yaeger I think is much more suited to the more detailed observations! Read an excerpt of hers below-- how can I not love a woman who is trying to get me a gift bag? LOVE HER!

“Somewhere in the air between Disco and Punk lives a woman boiling with youthful revolt but distinguished by unexpectedly classic style,” read the program notes at 3.1 Phillip Lim. Ya think? I find it hard to believe that this simmering creature, assuming she exists, wants to flounce around in Lim’s giraffe-patterned pantsuit, but maybe I’m wrong. One thing I do know: For all this blather about youthful revolt, Lim is keeping alive one of the most offensive and ridiculous traditions of Fashion Week: giving gift bags to front-row attendees only. Newsflash — these privileged people don’t need any more free stuff. Far better to have left those sacks on the seats in the last row, where a present really means something. (from www. nymag.com's Lynn Yaeger, Author)


More tomorrow -- hopefully more 'original'; likely not!

Love Love!

Madame B.

Fashion Week: A La Finis!

It is now 1:14 am on February 19th and my very first Fashion Week has finished! Ending the night at the very beautiful Gramercy Park Hotel, I inhaled a just-right Pasta Carbonara with a glass of Merlot in celebration of what turned out to be a fun-filled and glamorous week for yours truly, full of all of my favorite things: interesting people, champagne, chocolate and FUR!

For the last evening at the tents I left my now trademark Peacock Rabbit at home in exchange for my dark, glossy Brown Fox Cape, which when paired with my lavender plunging silk dress, hot pink hosiery, muted gold pumps, bronze gloves and my Grandmother's Diamond Brooch, left me well, photographable! Tonight I was very pleasurably photographed quite a bit from an Italian Fashion Channel, a Times Square Photographer--amid a few others whose affiliations I can't remember right this second. Of course, I am hoping to secure pics in the following week!

With the night being the historical last evening at Bryant Park the tents were packed. The energy in the air was stirring and I had the grand luck to secure a third row seat at Naheem Khan -- perhaps one of the top three shows I saw this season. I have decided that I absolutely must start securing Mr. Khan for my, uh no! I mean, Les Femmes' wardrobe! It was simply incredible! Glitzy, Glamourous, downright feminine and a tad bit rock and roll -- it really was a beautiful collection -- and everyone seemed to agree, giving Mr. Khan a standing ovation as he so happily walked the runway to say goodbye! Between Siriano, Khan and Chado RR, I have found all the designers I will ever dare need! I LOVE THESE MEN EMPHATICALLY!

PROOF MY ADVICE WORKS: I actually saw NO CHEWBACCA FUR tonight! THANK THE LORD IN HEAVEN! My point seems to have been understood, finally!

TENT SIGHTINGS: I finally saw Anna Wintour! GLAMOROUS! She had her glasses on so no eye contact but even from afar she stands out -- she seems to have perfected her supermodel editor aura just enough to magnetize others to her! Still no Tavi or Simon Doonan though!! :(

COMING THIS WEEK: As the new week begins on Monday I will begin a fuller look at the collections -- and yes I know it's late and you've probably already got the rundown -- but it's not my rundown and I know you are all waiting for Madame B.'s Fashion Advice To Obey for Fall, MB Fall Fashion Awards, and others! I will also be granting you a sneak preview into some of the brightest upcoming designers, stylists, photographers and models that I was privileged to meet this year! Plus, you'll be getting to see lots of pics -- hopefully even a few of yours truly!

Tune in Monday for the beginning of Fashion Week In Review!

Lots of Love and Good Sleep Besides!

Mdme B.

The Last Days of Fashion: DAY 7

DAY 7: Well yesterday I was truly tired...that is, too tired to even think about free champagne. Pretty much at this point I'm getting a "been there, done that" sort of headache. In only 8 days I feel I've pretty much seen it all...and well, I am a bit underwhelmed. I have yet to spot TAVI -- and how is that possible???? I've been at most of the very same shows! SO HOW? Because I'm tired and floating about in my own little champagne bubble that's how! I love this little sparkling sprite -- have you read her? I think we are somehow soul sisters -- I being the Older Sister -- and she being the more Educated! (Really, as embarrassing as it may be, I swear she has read more on Fashion History and Culture than moi -- I've read only on Ballet, Advanced Training Techniques for the Older Set, Bombshells, Aristotle & Cooking! Of course this mainly due to my "generation gap" combined with my country style upbringing...which lets face it my parents would have never allowed this!) I will truly feel depressed if I don't get to meet her before it is all over! In fact she needs to style me one of these days! I am listing her Site right over there to your right under My Kid Sister The Style Rookie! I mean -- glammy blue-lavender hair?! YES! In my opinion this Tavi gal is a sort of Punky Brewster totally channeling Coco Chanel through her own little unique eyes! Love it.

It doesn't help that I saw those horrible Chewbacca Anklets yet again (!!). This served only to make my head pound harder as I was sitting there trying to think of a way to make my argument against such attire stick. I mean it's one thing to see them on the street with the Gentry, who are more practical than chic most days and who can but blame them, being the working gals and all. But at the Tents? These are supposedly the Fashion Elite, who are either there because they work inside the world, or because they have no need of working at all and therefore are the buying public! So I feel in this case, it is my Duty to set things straight. Here is a visual exhibit for your reference:


Do you see how even Chewbacca himself kept his fur from the knee down, not just around the ankles... he sort of mashed down the knee area to give a bit of tailoring to his leg, but he had the sense not to try to shave it into some furry cankle mess around his foot. He had some pride - or perhaps Han Solo styled him (which could be why he is standing there so proudly with Chew). Either way he looks a happy, stylish beast.

The real question remains: CAN YOU ALL PLEASE FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE? FAUX CHEWBACCA FUR ONLY FROM THE KNEE DOWN....NOT A CANKLET! (you better not be wearing REAL Chewbacca fur-- he is an endangered species!) If you insist on a sort of furry anklet try mink or some other glossy fur that will stay close to the leg and look CHIC! Especially if you are actually able to afford Designer Garb -- you better look chic! Or you better truly look like some sort of fashionable nomad with all sorts of draped fabrics hanging on you -- which will serve to loosen the severity of the look and could work (but perhaps you want to seek some of Tavi's suggestions as to HOW!) All of the gals I've seen running around in these have tucked in riding denim or tights on -- it is a holy hot mess! I think indeed these gals may be crashing the party - and I need to alert the Security Boys! LADIES, DROP THEM OFF AT A CHARITY! or wear them in a MUCH more outlandish creative fashion! Please!

All of this this only made me want to go and find a cozy spot to lay down and sleep -- so I headed over to the Maybelline Couches to snuggle in. This lasted for about 5 minutes before I was told I could not snuggle there because a "model" was coming any minute to get a press op. Ok. Yeah. Right. One thing I've learned is that if the workers at Fashion Week say a model is coming "any minute" it will be 45 minutes. So I obeyed and got up -- only to wait 45 minutes for Miss Maybelline to show up. ADVICE TO OBEY MAYBELLINE: Please don't interrupt my lounging time ... I'm a working girl just like you but I'm running about on concrete -- not carpet! I'll have plenty of time to get up and look fresh before "the model" arrives! Truly!

Shows at the Tents were: Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Nanette Lapore, Phillip Lim, Milly, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Anna Sui, Brian Reyes. Off-Site I went to the Richie Rich/Pamela Anderson Show. Unh-huh!

I'll of course give fuller reports later but I will admit that after I finally found a comfy spot on the leather chaise in front of the big screens I didn't want to move... I was too tired to stand in line and well figured you get a better view from there anyhoo.

Things I overheard lounging: "In Brazil Alexandre Herchcovitch is our budding McQueen!" "We don't even call him Alexandre, we just call him Herchcovitch"! hmmm.. we shall see. at least he is alive.

Richie Rich: Everyone was talking up the Richie Rich show for the entire day, so much so that I decided to miss Anna Sui to go. It obviously had a "reputation". Figuring this would be more fun and certainly more outrageous than the tents, I went over to Amnesia on 29th -- got there at Press Call time of 7 and had not one problem getting in. YAY. Of course at this point there was no real excitement except there were all these GORGEOUS male models with wonderful face paint on. This made me wake right up thinking OH! YAY! a combined show of ladies and MEN!(I love men if you couldn't surmise!) Also in attendance were a whole crew of dancers and aerialists, and as the night went on every top drag queen in the city showed face, with Kenny Kenny our most lovely of nightlife gents leading the pack. Kenny sat all dolled up in the front row of the stage show looking absolutely bored NO! I MEAN CHIC for most of the time. Ms. Banana Dancer strutted her bananas about vigorously. Imagine: 6'2 Beautiful Black Man in Drag, wearing a gold glitter bikini top and totally tight barely there bikini bottoms with a belt of felted bananas swinging about to 'her' very vivacious booty shakes! Add to this a load of high kicks and front and back walk-overs in the best shoes I've seen all week! I LOVE HER SHOES!(TOP SECRET SHHH DON'T TELL!! THIS ENSEMBLE TRULY QUALIFIED AS THE BEST 'MEN'S' GARB ALL NIGHT although I think Richie Rich had little to do with it! UH OH!) I wish I got his / her name but truly, I was so tired -- AND TOO HUNGRY to ask! Famed Transdame Amanda Lepore was in attendance, and she looked an outrage.ously grand dame! Her lips are pumped to such absolute red perfection -- it sort of made all the other "pumpings" obsolete! Then of course there was this other sort of Asian Doll Face bouncing about -- all primped with petticoats galore! She had a Lady Bunny style hairpiece but she was in fact, not Lady Bunny! :( Where was the real Lady Bunny? No clue. I missed her! I know I've said this before, but I'll say it again -- the 'gay' community is my favorite of favorites! After spending exhaustive days in the tents running about in heels on concrete and viewing very serious fashion it was great to be in an environment of entertainment and creativity -- and COLOR!

The show itself started over an hour late because of course Ms. Anderson was an hour late! Annoying -- by this point I was feeling that if you are going to be fashionably late it would help to be fashionable! UH OH I'M IN BIG TROUBLE NOW but this is what low blood sugar does to a dame -- it brings out the truth! I mean Madame Lepore wasn't late, and she could have gotten away with it. But she showed up on time and graciously spoke to the press and posed for the cameras! By the time Pammy arrived there was a low sort of "booing" amongst the crowd as people were more than ready to leave. Afterall it was her anticipated arrival that the press was there so far in advance in the first place and now they wouldn't have time to do any real red carpet shots or interviews - she just rushed right by! ADVICE TO OBEY FOR THOSE USING CELEBRITIES OF THE ADULT ENTERTAINMENT GENRE: always have a back up band/group in attendance -- can I suggest my very own Caberet of Gals, LES FEMMES? We could have kept the press and crowd happily pleasured with our wonderful covers of all the Bombshell materials and Miss Bananas would have been able to perform even longer --- which I think it is safe to say we all enjoyed her! Seriously, these more 'Adult Stars' always pull this sort of thing -- and to no good effect -- bc well, this is a press event not a party (the party is later! ). Arriving in her bath robe with tousled bed hair as if someone had just woken her up from sleeping in to tell her that she had an appearance to make for her very own 'investment' line, she finally, did arrive! To an underwhelmed crowd indeed.

From here the entertainment began quickly, first the Dancers YAY! and then the sort of Drag Persona's and then FINALLY the models and the clothes... right away the music and environment was fun fun and I was really happy about that! I enjoyed the Women's Collection immensely-- it being very punk styling with neon colors, striping and leggings and high heels -- think Andy Warhol, London, Pet Shop Boys, Punk Rock -- Adam Lambert should call Richie right away for wardrobe! I think I've been color starved all week so for me this all made me very very happy bitch. Hungry, but happy! Very wearable for the Lower East Side / Model Crew. I'd certainly wear it out late at night -- after my hair has been turned platinum! YAY.

Then the MEN! Ok I want to try to tone down my disappointment - this because Richie is great and I do get his "viewpoint". But the hungry, tired truth? I couldn't look bc I thought it was ridiculous! All these gorgeously bodied men in skin tight sweat pants and hot pants? Skin tight extreme-scant cut speedos with glitter tassels and rhinestones? I pretty much covered my eyes bc I didn't want to see such a mess of gorgeous huMANity! Afterwards, I heard someone raving "Oh Richie -- he really goes there! It's Great!" I thought WHAT? Goes where? Every gay man in America has been donning these ideas for like 50 years! This is nothing new and there is no shock value any longer -- good reason for this NOT to hit the mass community at large. Can you imagine the bulk of straight men even trying to wear this? ABSURD. It's all fun to see this at a Kenny Kenny Bash -- it is in fact used to a beautiful effect in this setting - but On a Runway? For the Masses? This is a Pret-a-Porter show right?? I thought that is what it was but now I THINK NOT! I felt so sorry for these beautiful gents -- this was not at all effective, except for the FINALE when 4 scant-clad men lined up for the entrance of Pamela Anderson and Lepore and Miss Bananas etc. to strut out her very scant clad body herself! In this theatrical manner it all made sense as they posed as her sort of boy-toys -- which she rubbed her very bubbly, voluminous chest upon -- ok I get that. And I also wouldn't object at all for these boys to be wearing this and delivering drinks to us all (I would have liked that better even than the ladies who were actually doing said same). This would have appropriately served as a sort of harem effect within the audience -- but for the actual runway it would have been great for Richie to design some of the cool garments for the men that he made for the women... not just banking on this sort of 'serious nothingness'. Really Richie, I know you could design some great men's CLOTHES -- look at yourself -- you looked very cool!

Anyhoo by the end of all this I was so hungry I was about to bite a hunk out of one of those more beefy men -- so I decided to skip the after party, and get some food!



BITCHIN' SIGHTINGS TODAY: COCOTAY has the best business gold metal cards I've EVER seen -- and I want some immediately! Her jewels were scattered amongst this collection and they are glamorous! With her collection being named "Cocotay Social", "Champagne Collection" and "Martini Collection" who couldn't love her old-hollywood, sort of beach-chic styling! Check out their inspiration list-- too fun! Plus Coco herself is a really nice gal! She's bitchin' for sho'!

Fashion Week: Tuesday at theTents!

Ok so only 2 more days to go! :( Today I skipped the morning shows to write. I never imagined how much time it takes to report on this grand affair; I have a new respect for Fashion Writers/Editors. THERE IS JUST SO MUCH AND I AM A NEWBIE (pretty please cut me some slack), but I did make it to the tents in time to see THUY, TIBI & NARCISCO RODRIGUEZ! Of course full reports will be forthcoming but for now I've got to get to sleep in time to rise at 6 am to make Tory Burch at 9am! I am writing this while I inhale Kraft Mac n Cheese (yes, comfort food for the starving!)

FAUX PAS: I saw those faux furry anklet boots again! KILL THEM NOW! PLEASE THEY MUST GO TO THE KNEE TO BE EFFECTIVE! Do I have to beat this into those pretty little feet of yours? ONLY REAL, SILKY, SHINY FUR FOR THE ANKLETS! Unless you work for PETA, you have no excuse!

BITCH REPORT: I love A Good Bitch, you can count on that. But those little desk gals for the Toni Francesc show were not Good Bitches -- they were just plain bitches. Not good at all.

Some Advice, Ladies: I know it's late and that everything is behind schedule -- but don't give your Designer a bad rep. You are their Representative! I literally had the great luck of running into the Mickey Boardman of Paper Magazine -- and of course I had no idea who he was (because I honestly don't know who anyone is yet!). Seems like Mr. Mickey is one of the coolest, nicest IT BOYS in NYC! As I was resting my legs, I watched as he gave tons of interviews with random folks, helped a distinguished looking photographer identify VIPS in pics and even humored little ol' me by taking my 'card' ! Then as I was leaving I asked about his name which I had overheard to find out who he really was! HE, Ladies, Is A GOOD BITCH. So if this man, who runs one of the hippest mags going, can be nice, fresh, outgoing and cheerful, to strangers, so can you! I suggest you click over on BA (look down to your right dearies!) and DONATE to get your 12 Step Guide to Becoming a Good Bitch. In general, throw back a few drinks and RELAX!

OK! OFF TO BED!

Love, Love!

Madame B.


VIDEOS A LA MOI!!

http://main.stylelist.com/2010/02/19/madame-b-fashion-week-fall-2010-naeem-kahn-vlog/

Fashion Week: TRIPLE THREAT CHRISTIAN SIRIANO!

THE GENIUS!

GORGEOUS FIT!

MY FAVORITE PIECE!
A "Gilded Gladiator" for sure!

HAVING A BALL?

I ADORE THIS MODEL!
WHO IS SHE?

Dames don’t Gush -- unless something is entirely Gush Worthy! And Christian Siriano is absolutely worthy! How old is this Chap? 24! Yet, his work looks like that of a veteran -- a veteran Star even! Raised in Maryland by a family who obviously encouraged his talents, this Project Runway Winner has catapulted himself to the top of the fashion industry lightening fast! Who else but he has made anything of note after PR? Already he is helping the masses dress themselves up with his new line of shoes for Payless ( I ADORE PAYLESS! THEY LAST FOR AGES!). He is fast creating a Brand and since it’s coming from someone of such obvious talent and SKILL, I can’t be upset! On top of all this HE IS A SCORPIO! And I adore Scorpios!

Before we get into the collection let me speak easy a bit with regards to talent and skill. Talent is the most obvious thing that we notice when someone so young (or even someone so old) makes a rather strong emotional impression upon us through their work, art, intelligence. But it is Skill that reveals talent and as such this can not be ignored. A very casual glance in Mr. Siriano’s direction would show you that this man has put in the hours behind his talent -- he has some serious pattern making/draping/sewing chops -- and when throwing in his prodigious talent to boot, this is what truly sets his creations apart, moving the work from simple attire to that of Art.

From the very first piece (modeled by my favorite model at Fashion Week, whose name I am having a terrible time in securing!) of a superbly tailor leather jacket and slim wool skirt, Christian flaunted both his rock and roll styling as well as his eye for chic, tailored sophistication. Continuing throughout the entire we see lush, refined fabric choices, with fine, hand-cut silhouettes on every single girl! His trademark from Project Runway is ruffles of course, and Tim Gunn has flogged him more than once to step those back a bit and well he is an obvious good listener, because while there were still the ruffled nuances, he has definitely brought this idea into a much more refined shape. Even his little ‘black’ (cranberry, navy!) dresses a la Coco Chanel had his own signature feel with his draped fabric silhouettes both revealing and concealing the feminine form. The entire collection was DRESSED UP, and it is my best advice that we follow in line! We simply need to dress up more!

Fabrics were heavily concentrated on Silk. Wool, Charmeuse, Chiffon & Cashmere with the colors spanning black, emboldened navy, cranberry, plenty of metallics and fushia -- the last being the closer of the show with a fun, frilly ball of a gown -- with only one minor slip of the shoe for the model (Christian Love, see my advice on heels and ball gowns below!). All outfits were of course completed those very fantastic shoes of his, now available for a limited edition run at PAYLESS… go get them now! Inspired by furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, cleverly named Chinoiserie, Cloven, Gilded Gladiator, Cabinet & Scroll, Christan has proven that he can truly fit the shoes of the super star these houses have been trying to fashion from other, lesser-gifted designers. America’s very own triple threat (Couture, RTW, Accessories) has arrived!

FAVORITE PIECE: The sort of Elizabethan Sparkling Collar upon the swing shift dress! DIVINE! (see above for detail!)

BACKSTAGE: YES! I got to go back stage where I was overwhelmed by the amount of press hovering around this slim figure. Not nearly daring to disturb him more, I ended up briefly chatting with “The Boyfriend“, Ring Designer Brad Walsh. He waas simply lovely and gracious about all the attention Christian was receiving and indeed I learned that Christian is a true designer of the people, not flinching once when I mentioned my debuting Caberet Company, Les Femmes and their need to be dressed immaculately! Also spotted was another fierce creation of Christian’s: Ostrich Feathers perfectly tailored into an hourglass silhouetted dress --- so beautiful I nearly had to sit down to catch my breath! I AM SWOONING!

Fashion Week: Day 2 Recap!

DAY 2

First I oversleep --waking at precisely 10:01 am , exactly ONE MINUTE after the start time of the Project Runway Show. I am absolutely bummed and Yes! I was out too, too, too late -- but for a good cause! The Dynamic Duo Susanne Barsch & Kenny Kenny along with Patricia Field were throwing a Keith Haring Foundation Party! It was an amazing bash spanning 2 floors with the truly fashionable in attendance! This party has thoroughly convinced me that the Gay Community is the most creative community in the world!!! An electronic re-make of Vogue?!! If this community were embraced mainstream every pop-artist alive would be out of work --although Madonna would probably be given some sort of backstage pass! Nevertheless, I made it to the tents in time for the Christian Siriano show and he ROCKS!

FAUX PAS SIGHTING: Earrings that are too heavy for your ears! GROSS! So this lady was strutting about in her “smoking gun” earrings -- small mini toy guns as it were -- which were way too heavy for her ears! The effect was cool at a glance, but one glance further and you wince -- with one eye open hoping to catch it when it falls through! ADVICE TO OBEY: no matter how cool, expensive, expressive or what-not, DO NOT WEAR EARRINGS THAT STRETCH YOUR LOBES! Not only will you make others wince and cringe, but you will have to spend hard cash for a lobe repair when you’d rather spend it on a laser lift!

FAUX PAS RUNWAY: DESIGNERS! Can we let go of the 5 inch heels please? Have a Heart! With Agyness Deyn falling on her bum 2 times in one show, the Haitian Relief Show for the love of God! The proof is ever clear! Those shoes simply do not work !!! Even when the model serves not to fall she is leaning so far back it distorts the lines you so carefully constructed in the first place! This especially goes for those Glamazons who still have to wear heels underneath ball-gowns that go far beyond their toes!! They should be able to walk barefoot because they are already very, very tall - - and well, no one can see! Plus, all Bombshells go barefoot after they've had a few toasts of champagne!

Fashion Week Mid-Week: BCBG, Mackage, Duckie Brown

DAY 1 Fun!

I begin the day 1st by being on time! Can you imagine? MOI? On Time? Rarely happens. You know I’m thrilled. Arriving at the Starbucks to meet the Chief Fashion Editor for The Black Star, I am eager to begin. She arrives late but since she is a fierce super model with a small and very handsome son she is forgiven. First in line is the BCBG show -- of which I am dying to see! But of course do I get to go in? NO! We are so rushed -- rallying our photographer who doesn’t have his press credentials -- me being absolutely starry eyed as I walk through the door, The Chief Editor is the only one who attends the actual show. I’m stuck watching it on the big screen -- and WOW that big screen is BIG! Love it! You can actually see some of the details on the clothes, which as I will learn later, is nearly impossible to do if you are actually inside the show itself.

FAUX PAS SIGHTING: Anklet Furry boots in some sort of Faux, Cotton Candy Fur. WHAT!?? Please realize ladies that while we get the Tundra In Alaska reference, for anklets, it must be REAL FUR! If you take this faux fur mess up to the knee however you can get away with it… not sure why but it just works better, trust me and obey. You can also follow in line with yours truly and wear faux as a vest… no issue there. At the ankle though, it just looks a bit ‘teenage-pomp’ and we truly should leave that to Peaches Geldof, shouldn‘t we?

Ok now the shows:

BCBG Max Azria

The BCBG Colors for the fall set the stage for the Week: Muted Cobalts, Greys, Creams & Blacks all set off with Winter White Hosiery which adds just the right charm to the more darkened effect. In fact, right away I realize that Opaque Cream Tights are going to be my favorite this year. There is something very Art Deco about that particular color choice -- and I LOVE ART DECO, no secret there. As to shape BCBG did nothing out of the ordinary for themselves -- but what they do, they do solidly. If a gal of the NY sort were to say, secure the monies that would afford her a solid mid-couture line, and if this same gal were more interested in defining the very basis of her wardrobe with those sort of tried and true staple items, versus some sort of trendy fillers, well Max Azria would be her go-to boy (can't wait to see his own collection later in the week)!

The fabrics this season are sand washed, in desert hues, with color block and metallic detailing throughout the entirely of the collection. The shapes are languorous and flowing with just enough structure to hone things in - certainly a fit for a number of body types and Madame B. certainly thanks Max for that. I think it is about time that designers get the message: skinny little models never have a difficult time looking great even if they are in their pj’s! But a curvy girl -- she can‘t just throw anything on! Definitely this is a ‘work to play’ sort of line and as such can easily be converted into mid-week evening wear for the working girl! Overall the looks are wearable, and with the quality being a given, the price is right, too!

IN A NUT SHELL: Non-Chalant. Cosmopolitan. Wearable. Worth the Money.

MACKAGE, Turning my head to smaller smaller screens in the tent I was able to hone out the Fall 2010 for Mackage. Mackage is the brainchild of Eran Elfassy and Elisa Dahan who initially established their presence with great outwear. This year is their first adventure into Ready To Wear (RTW) and I am thinking it’s a good idea! Translating their love of leather into complete coordinated outfits, I am one happy bitch that they are going RTW! The detailing and colors are immaculate with deep caramel leathers, bronzed satins & silks, all with sumptuously soft leather coating! Autumn is feeling delicious -- and this coming from a broad who patently does not like earth tones, mainly feeling that they dull down even the most beautiful complexion. However Jewel-Hued Earth Tones? Sign me up! I especially loved the Champagne heavy-weight legging pants with the sateen-ed knees panels, the deep caramel butter soft leather accessories, and the side-swept low pony tails! KEEP IT UP!

IN A NUTSHELL: Think romantic autumn day in the woods walking about the changing leaves with your horse at your side, and a great coat draped around your shoulders. That is Mackage RTW Fall 2010.

DUCKIE BROWN Ok this was my first official show to actually enter into the runway! It was FUN! AND I GOT A SEAT! YAY! Add to that that this is a Men’s Line with gorgeously faced male models strutting (YES, STRUTTING!) their stuff. Madame B. is in heaven! The show begins with a sort of punk style chipmunk music and out the Chaps come in their combat Doc Martin-esque leather goods, tartan plaid cropped pants, with chains and the like. The look is very “Posh Ramones” with colors being in the punk genre of Royal Red, Acid Yellow, Black scheme. I am adoring the dropped crotch with a fitted hip -- it’s a great take on the current urban ….. dare I say, it looks tailored. The idea that these NY designers “Dress Men Beautifully” -- well, it is not so much in the Milan Man sort of way, but more to a sort of elegant punk effect… I approve for the urban geared gent and look forward to seeing these styles at Union Squares famed Skater‘s Park.

IN A NUTSHELL: SWAGGER. These clothes have it and well, I wouldn’t turn a one of these looks down in the street. The only question remains, will our Joe’s be able to pull it off? We shall see. The cropped pants with the leather hi-risers is brilliant and makes me want to cuddle up to my lovey rocker/skater bf!

Peachy Keen? Not You dear! But your Friend.....!

"Any broad can go down in history for the wrong ideas.
Yet, only the beautiful souls make history for the right ones."

---Madame B.

Fashion Week: Valentines at the Tents!

It was a swell of a sweet day indeed! The Diane Von Furstenburg show was the highlight of my day -- being a lucky little bitch to secure myself a seat! Indeed, it seems Diane has 1000 Watt Star Power -- bringing every A-Lister imaginable into the Tent! Tim Gunn was sitting in the front row facing me -- ever clear in his pin stripe suiting! He looked bedazzled with the show and I of course can't blame him! With over 40 looks the show was a literal migration of leggy models -- and not one slip! For the finale, Lady Diane herself took a walk on the long u-shaped runway -- looking as beautiful as ever with roses, children and gent in hand! It was a beauty of an event and indeed I AM SMITTEN with Lady D.!

For the evening I was seated at another designer's event which came off a bit drag -- as in drag queen! Mind you it wasn't a total nightmare, but it was a bit Super Hero and Conceptual! I'll reveal the natty details tomorrow when I secure some time to flesh it all out!

My Funny Valentine's Outfit: Hearts Jumper Dress with tiny hearts all over, Burgundy Tights, Oxblood button up shirt, favorite Valentines scarf with my Gold and Diamond Queen Bee pin and Black fur vest -- and of course my Cookie Monster Blue Fur Top Coat and nerdy journalist glasses, with Patent Leather Oxford heels! Yes! I was done up!

2nd Highlight of the Day: Goddess Lynne Yaeger asked to take my picture with her friend's bunny bear! FUN!; I was interviewed for a St. Louis Missouri Station on Camera!; I met the Creative Director from a collective of designers from Antwerp showing tomorrow at the times building -- and she invited me to go!

You know the motto by now: MORE TO COME-- that's because with all the excitement and back to back events, I can barely find time to write in more detail! I promise HUGS N KISSES LOVE LOVE LOVE it's all coming! Please don't give up!

Until then, go get dressed up and join in remotely!

LOVE! XOXO!

Madame B.

DAY 3 At The Tents!

Ok so today I took off my heels and sported my "nerdy journalist look"! Simple slim cut brushed denim, a long black T, a kids sweater worn as a zip-up shrug, my Dad's Halloween hippie costume scarf and my Tennis Shoes, all completed with my big black journalist glasses and about 100 small fashion pins pinned all over my left leg in a snake like fashion -- then add the Teal Blue Fur! Besides flaunting the cookie monster style at the tents, MY FEET LOVE ME RIGHT NOW! Tomo I'll be back in action in my Valentine's Dress! YAY!

Today in a nutshell:blistering winds kept me inside today... MET LYNN YAEGER IN PERSON! Saw the Andy & Debb show, the ADAM show & The Arise African Collective Show! ARISE was STUNNING! Every single detail was fierce from the clothes to the models -- including the beautiful Chanel Iman! Went to the Plaza for the after party where I learned that I am officially "short" -- had a great dinner at Momofoyo, had more pink champagne with Chambord, then to Stone Rose with my great pal, Designer Kilu & new friends Naoko and Jared! Was nicknamed The Cookie Monster by the insiders! Yes, I'm having FUN!

Fashion Faux Pas: was interviewed on TV for The Daily and well, I didn't know one 'important' thing about the industry!! I'M A NEWBIE SO CUT ME SOME SLACK (pretty please with cherries on top, meow!) Lost my entire makeup bag (yes this is a tragedy bc makeup is EXPENSIVE!) but am hoping the good karma fairies will save it for me to find tomorrow!

THE WEEK IN REVIEW IS ON THE WAY! STAY TUNED!

FASHION WEEK: DAY 2

Soon and very soon you will have real writing about all the little gory details of the Fall Season -- and I can say right now, it's going to be a beautifully dressed fall! Until I can catch a breath to really report, here is my Top Ten Observation List from the past few days!

TOP TEN OBSERVATIONS AT THE TENTS (Day 1/2):

1. Chambord added to anything tastes GREAT! Especially when it's free!

2. Wearing Fur really is a cure for all evil. Especially BLUE FUR!

3. Not everyone can be a model and walk down a VERY LONG runway convincingly. The Heart's Truth Celebrity Show proved this. NOT ONE GOOD WALKER... except for Joan Collins -- but she didn't really walk -- she traipsed! (Ok, Heidi Klum was good but she doesn't count bc she is a real model!)

4. Man + Camera with Big Lens= HOT.

5. Models really are that pretty. I mean we see them on TV and in the streets of NY and go -- "whatever". But the runway girls at NY's Fashion Week? They are beyond pretty. They are FIERCE. Skinny and Fierce.

6. When they say "the tents at Bryant Park" they mean it! IT IS REAL TENTS IN A PARK WITH NO CARPET -- just cobblestone concrete, a little bit of heat, fancy port-a-potties and birds flying around. But alas, the next shows will be at Lincoln Center!

7. Fashion People are not obnoxious. They are actually nice. It's the people who want to be fashion people who are obnoxious!

8. The 2011 Mercedes Sports Series with the Delorian Doors? Bitchin'!

9. High Heels are gorgeous and absofu*&inlutely necessary -- but darn it gosh darn it, they hurt (on cobblestone concrete)!

10. The Creative Director for Aveda who did the Siriano Show is a Master!

More Soon!

Madame B.

RATHER CAUGHT DEAD: The Queen's Demise.

Lee Alexander McQueen was pronounced dead in his home on this, the first day of Fashion Week. He was 40 years of age, living in London. Overshadowing what was otherwise a delightful first of the last days at the Tents at Bryant Park, I can say first hand that not one show was watched without thinking how this man, ever daring, honestly original with a particularly "rude boy" British sensibility, touched the very heart of the fashion industry worldwide. No one does a show like McQueen -- a veritable Oscar-worthy performance of film, acting, design, music, dancer and technology. Simply, he blew us away - each and every time!

He was, as many recall, a modern genius and his work touched to the core of the industry. Beginning at 16 years of age as an apprentice in tailoring with Anderson and Sheppard of Saville Row, London, he was an artisan of his craft in a time when it is altogether unnecessary to develop one's abilities to such a masterful extent. His designs and shows touched couture, pop culture and street styles, designing each season as a full performance complete with technology, narrative and live performance. Models didn't just walk the McQueen show -- they gave a full out performance in the same manner any Stage Artist. Fashion Moguls, Celebrity Clients, Teachers, Mentors, Lovers, Friends and Directors worldwide have honed in on his tragic demise, with John Hitchcock of Saville Row quoted as saying "Most ladies have worn something inspired by McQueen. I would like to say thank you to him for his influence in giving young people an interest in tailoring"

Indeed, Lee McQueen was a great among us. Like many of the great masters he sacrificed his life to his vision, his aesthetic and his art. We love him and his work. And we will miss him dearly.

But I also want to say here and I'm sure I'll be flogged for doing so, but please just consider a moment these events which were so recently brought to my attention: What about the girl who survived 15 days with only bath water, under rubble in Haiti to LIVE? Surely she doesn't have too much proof that there is anything too exciting to live for, but she values the opportunity besides. Or to the poor girl who will have no more opportunity as just a few days ago she was BURIED ALIVE, tied and bound by her relatives for talking to Boys in the southern part of NO NOT Afghanistan, but the very 'western' nation, TURKEY! These are the people in the world with truly devastating problems and it could be a sound argument that there is nothing so interesting to really live for -- but for their own dreams and ideas! I am just an itsy bit pissed that McQueen didn't value his own life, success and work more -- especially when so many others would have gone naked in a snowstorm to have even one ounce of his wealth, privilege, luck of a good birthplace and success. That said, May God Rest His Soul and may we all learn something besides.

Love and LIFE!

Mdme. B.

Monday's Advice For World Happiness: Go Shopping!

Wouldn't ya know! It's Monday again! And not just any old Monday mind you, but the Monday before The Mercedes-Benz Fall 2010 Fashion Week right here in the Big Apple! In just 3 more days the festivities will begin and if you are lucky to be anywhere nearby you'll quickly realize that this event gets more Press, Security and Gawkers than any other singular event all year, including visits from our beloved Mr. President. The Devil Wears Prada herself will be there, as will every other A-Lister one can think of, including gleefully, Your's Truly! I am happy as a lark about this fun little way to spend my week, and up late nights trying to craft "my look", realizing of course that as long as I wear my dearly departed Grandmother's fur coat, all will be well in the tents! Yes, indeed, we New Yorkers LOVE our fashion!

So if you are putzing about your office with the Monday blues, trying to figure out why in the world you hate your job so much, feign a long line at Starbucks and take an extra half hour at lunch to hit some stores. If you're chronically depressed I suggest you too buy a Fur --every Dame needs one and nothing warms the soul more! But if it's just mild seasonal allergies then a few pairs of shoes just might do it! Either way, go and buy something -- even if it's just a chocolate! While there has been no research to prove that shopping is an exact science, every Gal knows that when you look better, you feel better! So, that's proof enough for me!

Happy Hunting!

Mdme. B.

FASHION WEEK HERE I COME!

IT IS OFFICIAL:

I will be covering THE MERCEDES-BENZ NYC FASHION WEEK from February 11-18!
This year it's held at Lincoln Center -- not Bryant Park (weep, sigh!). NO OOPS ACTUALLY I'M WRONG IT IS AT LINCOLN CENTER IN THE FALL! whew!
I don't have my schedule of shows yet, but it's still a few weeks away! YAY!

Now, The Big Questions:
1. Will I meet my Future Husband "Fashion Photographer"? :)
2. Will I see Simon Doonan, or Anna?
3. Will ("TBA") Clothing Company of Choice dress me? (To Be Revealed Day 1)
4. Will I like anything at the Tent(s)?
5. Will I get stepped on?
6. Will I feel fat?

Well, we'll just have to wait and see I suppose! Stay Tuned!

Mdme. B.

B.A.N.G.in' Hair! - The Short Segment

Ok, Ok. So I have about had it with my hair! And not just MY hair -- but anyone living in NYC who can't seem to get some sort of B.A.N.G in' Hair. And let me tell you -- its not that every girl in Manhattan doesn't want B.A.N.G.in' hair -- that is, Bad Ass NYC Gal Hair. It's not that we aren't asking for a stylish 'do' -- its just hard to find a stylist who "gets it". And by 'IT', I mean someone who gets that we are in Manhattan and we need some fashion forward, editorial chops! Let's be honest -- no one moves here to look like they don't live here. And with haircut prices at "stylish" salons ranging anywhere from $75-$200 a pop (and even more!) you would think that the number one class in beauty school would be called:

The IT Factor: What IT is and What IT is NOT.

Unfortunately it seems that this course has yet to be invented. So instead of bitchin' about how it seems no one really understands me, I have decided to start posting pictures of great IT LOOKS that you should be able to get at any real salon here in NYC. I think each of these looks has some sort of factor that makes them all "cool" - "stylish" - or in better English, "spot on". For today's segment I will be focusing on short cuts, (because after my most recent trip to a posh salon for a trim, my hair is yet short again!) but don't worry: Mid-Length and Long Chops are in the works. For now, take a peek at these B.A.N.G.in' Beauties:

Do we get IT? I sure hope so.