If you have watched the documentary “The September Issue” last year, thanks to the fashion Empress and EIC Anna Wintour, you probably already know every steps it takes to create the iconic and every women’s most expected issue of their favorite glossy magazine. Not only it takes drama in Wintour’s office and André Leon Talley to start his weight loss diet, but it’s also 6 months of sweat and tears, lots of unpaid interns sacrificed on the altar of Fashion, assistants burnt out, hours in the pre-prod room, hours in the post-prod room, gazillions of $ spent, months of travels around the world and around the clock, etc.

Ok, I may be exaggerating a bit too much. I must say, for many in this industry it’s like giving birth to a baby, a big baby of 500 more pages made of glossy paper and just speaking Fashion. Fascinating. Since a child, I’ve always been fascinated by Fashion magazines, flipping the pages and staying amazed by the artistic pictures in the second part of the issue. Moved by the creativity it takes to design these clothes but also the work of the photographers to create the iconic picture each is looking for. But the September issue is not the result of an industry’s tradition, it has been created years ago by Vogue as a pure marketing tool to attract more sales and more advertisers. And now, all the publications are fighting to win the biggest revenue race, it’s like a way to stay “My magazine is the best out here”. So what’s the ingredient to make it a “Hit”? Of course the cover. No matter what the content is, customers will buy the cover. And that’s the reason why most of the time we see the biggest stars of the current buzz – the ones that are the most “bankable” as we like to say. Nonetheless, even if this September issue tradition is irrelevant in my opinion, it does sometimes reveal quite some trends and good surprises you would not expect.

After spending an hour collecting all the most interesting covers of this month, here is my top 5 of the best September issue covers:

#5: Musically, Lady Gaga is unquestionably talented, but I’ve never believed the pop singer was legit in the fashion world despite her extravagance and curiosity to experiment. On the other hand, Nick Knight did an amazing job to create a cover that will make you feel like obtaining a candy box.

Vanity Fair US & UK September 2010 Lady Gaga By Nick Knight

#4: Simply chic. Greg Kadel did a great job at immortalizing the model Constance Jablonski doing the perfect wink. This cover has a potential to be iconic.

Vogue Germany September 2010 Constance Jablonski by Greg Kadel

#3: Kate Moss is still one of – or even- the best model even after 20 years in the industry. This is my third best cover for, actually, being the only one to talk about trends. And just the idea of Kate Moss being naked underneath a Burberry military-trench is outrageously sexy.

Vogue UK September 2010 Kate Moss by Patrick Demarchelier

#2: This could have been a flop, but it turns out so well that it’s second best cover. Conceptually “risqué”, this cover is just another proof that Sweden is becoming more and more influential in the industry.

Elle Sweden September 2010 Frida Gustavsson by Andreas Sjodin

#1: Despite the blatant marketing stunt. These 3 covers are simply grandiose.

i-D cover Kate Moss September 2010

i-D Cover Lady Gaga September 2010

i-D cover Naomi Campbell September 2010

Anna Selezneva and Anabela Belikova preparing for a new season

I start to feel it! Not the heatwave currently hitting the city that pushes me to wear 3 layers of anti-antiperspirant all over my body.  But the upcoming New York Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week that is going to keep me busy for several weeks. Over the past two years I’ve been doing this blog, the more I’ve been covering Fashion Week and designers, the more it got exciting for me. So yes, literally, the temperature is rising.

Here we go! To kick off this new season of fashion weeks, I am excited to share with you the preliminary schedule of this Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Week in NY. For those who have been hiding in a cave for 6 months, the venue will be located for the first time ever at the Lincoln Center. Usually home of the city’s classic culture and now, twice a year, the epicenter of New York’s fashion. I am honestly excited like a little kid by this new location for two reasons: 1) it’s going to be bigger, better 2) it’s closer to my place! But also because I’ll get access to different new events with designer presentations, industry forums, press conferences and other activities. So hopefully, I’ll get to meet more people and share Twitter accounts.Yeah, that’s the new thing down here.

Anyway here is the preliminary schedule of events and I am already marking up my calendar. However don’t expect to find Marc Jacobs or Alexander Wang among other highly-anticipated designers in this schedule yet. It won’t come up until two weeks before the event. Our favorite designers are probably cranking up their team of designers and sewing machines, so stay tuned, once I hear back with new dates I’ll be the (one of the) first to share!

September 9, 2010

• 9:00 AM Nicholas K, Studio
• 10:00 AM Project Runway, Theatre
• 10:30-11:30 AM Toni Maticevski, Box*
• 11:00 AM Richard Chai, Stage
• 1:00 PM Ruffian, Studio
• 2:00 PM Christian Siriano, Stage
• 2:30-4:00 PM Bensoni, Box*
• 6:00 PM Farah Angsana, Studio
• 6:30-7:30 PM VERRIER, Box*
• 7:00 PM Concept Korea, Theatre
• 9:00 PM Richie Rich, Studio

September 10, 2010

• 9:30-10:30 AM Tadashi Shoji, Box*
• 10:00 AM BCBGMAXAZRIA, Theatre
• 11:00 AM Duckie Brown, Stage
• 12:00 PM Michael Angel, Studio
• 1:30-2:30 PM Buckler, Box*
• 2:00 PM EDITION Georges Chakra, Stage
• 3:00 PM Ports 1961, Theatre
• 4:00 PM Alexander Berardi, Studio
• 6:00-10:00 PM Fashion’s Night Out
• 8:00 PM Academy of Art University, Theatre

September 11, 2010

• 10:00 AM Lacoste, Theatre
• 10:30-11:30 AM Binetti, Box*
• 11:00 AM Cynthia Rowley, Stage
• 1:00 PM Prabal Gurung, Studio
• 2:00 PM ADAM, Stage
• 2:30-3:30 PM Yoana Baraschi, Box*
• 3:00 PM Vivienne Tam, Theatre
• 4:00 PM Mik Cire, Studio
• 6:00 PM Charlotte Ronson, Stage
• 7:00 PM Z Spoke by Zac Posen, Theatre
• 9:00 PM Venexiana, Studio

September 12, 2010

• 10:00 AM Derek Lam, Stage
• 10:30-11:30 AM Timo Weiland, Box*
• 11:00 AM Lela Rose, Studio
• 1:00 PM DKNY, Off-site
• 2:00 PM Rebecca Taylor, Studio
• 2:30-3:30 PM Rebecca Minkoff, Box*
• 3:00 PM Hervé Léger by Max Azria, Stage
• 4:00 PM Diane von Furstenberg, Theatre
• 5:00 PM Trias, Studio
• 6:30-7:30 PM Global Glam Collection, Box*
• 7:00 PM Custo Barcelona, Stage
• 8:00 PM Tommy Hilfiger, Theatre
• 9:00 PM Vassilios Kostetsos, Studio

September 13, 2010

• 8:30-10:00 AM William Tempest, Box*
• 9:00 AM Jenny Packham, Studio
• 10:00 AM Carolina Herrera, Theatre
• 11:00 AM Carlos Miele, Stage
• 12:00 PM Diesel Black Gold, Off-site
• 1:00 PM Tracy Reese, Studio
• 2:00 PM Donna Karan Collection, Off-site
• 2:30-3:30 PM TONYCOHEN, Box*
• 3:00 PM Monique Lhuillier, Stage
• 4:00 PM Yeohlee, Off-site
• 5:00 PM Herchcovitch;Alexandre, Studio
• 6:00 PM Betsey Johnson, Theatre
• 7:00 PM Perry Ellis, Stage

September 14, 2010

• 9:00 AM Elie Tahari, Studio
• 9:00-10:30 AM Monique Péan, Box*
• 10:00 AM Badgley Mischka, Theatre
• 11:00 AM Vera Wang, Stage
• 1:00 PM Rosa Cha, Studio
• 1:30-3:30 PM Bibhu Mohapatra, Box*
• 2:00 PM Max Azria, Theatre
• 3:00 PM Dennis Basso, Stage
• 6:00 PM Luca Luca, Studio
• 6:30-7:30 PM Sophie Theallet, Box*
• 7:00 PM Tibi, Stage
• 8:00 PM Narciso Rodriguez, Theatre
• 9:00 PM Toni Francesc, Studio

September 15, 2010

• 8:30-10:00 AM Bill Blass, Box*
• 9:00 AM Tory Burch, Studio
• 10:00 AM Michael Kors, Theatre
• 11:00 AM Nanette Lepore, Stage
• 1:00 PM General Idea, Studio
• 1:00-2:30 PM Adrienne Vittadini, Box*
• 2:00 PM Gottex, Theatre
• 3:00 PM Milly by Michelle Smith, Stage
• 5:00 PM Odd Molly, Studio
• 6:00 PM Anna Sui, Theatre
• 6:30-7:30 PM Mackage, Box*
• 9:00 PM Zang Toi, Studio

September 16, 2010

• 10:00 AM Ralph Lauren, Skylight Studio, 275 Hudson Street
• 11:00 AM Ralph Lauren, Skylight Studio, 275 Hudson Street
• 11:30-1:00 PM Andy & Debb, Box*
• 12:00 PM Isaac Mizrahi, Theatre
• 1:00 PM Davidelfin, Studio
• 2:00 PM Argentina Group Show, Stage
• 3:00 PM Calvin Klein Collection Women’s, 205 W 39th St,
• Ground Floor
• 4:00 PM Calvin Klein Collection Women’s, 205 W 39th St, Ground Floor
• 6:00 PM J. Mendel, Studio
• 6:30-7:30 PM Rebecca Moses, Box*
• 7:00 PM Naeem Khan, Stage
• 8:00 PM L.A.M.B., Theatre
• 9:00 PM IVANAhelsinki, Studio

*Designer Presentation

What could possibly push me to post an article about the divine and iconic actresses Audrey Hepburn and Jean Seberg? Definitely neither a passion for black & white film-making from the 60’s nor a fetishism for women with short hair. But because, years ago, I helplessly fell under the charm of two of the most beautiful women in our entire civilization. Audrey Hepburn, Jean Seberg, two fantastic actresses who left an indelible imprint in history, not only in the movie industry but also fashionably speaking. After watching again my favorite movies from these two legendary stars, I could not resist but to pay my tribute to Audrey and Jean, or frankly, if you read this, throw at your face a breeze of class and grace that could inspire you. I honestly have the conviction that design and fashion is becoming trashier than ever, and our world is loosing sight of the pure elegance. Though, “l’espoir fait vivre” when watching and remembering that the 60’s were not so far away and that maybe, maybe people could get inspired once again with – in my opinion – the best fashion decade in our history.

The feminine and fragile look were Audrey and Jean’s signature. Wearing simple classic silhouettes, chic and timeless; whether it was Givenchy or Ungaro (both respectively muse of the French designers). A slightly rebellious nature for both is evident with short hair and by wearing tailored clothes which was relatively a revolution in the 60’s. As a conclusion, they deserve my title of  History’s most elegant ambassadors by staying gorgeous, and utterly graceful, all along their life being strong and showing the example even in their darkest moments. In my battle to bring back class and elegance to our world, I’ll take each step at a time and for once sleep well tonight.

H&M Divided Collection F/W 2010

Is it acceptable for major clothing companies to replicate high-end runway clothes to make them highly accessible to 99% of the population? Well, I truly don’t have the answer even though I will always be defending the designer’s creations and the uniqueness of their design. So in this wave of new Fall Winter ad campaigns to prepare the assiduous consumers to know the who-what-where of the next fashion trends. Some mass-market brands such as H&M don’t get ashamed to blatantly reproduce the Givenchy Spring/Summer 2010 collection to spread all-over the press the campaign for the new H&M F/W Divided collection.

Givenchy S/S 2010

A collection that is purely a cheap version of what made Tisci popular last season. I’m not in Riccardo Tisci’s mind to understand what he could think of this watered-down version his Givenchy collection. But this could be a great debate about who is fashion aimed at? And whether or not designers should design for two types of consumers versus being ripped off by retail stores?

Alberta Ferrett, Christopher Kane, Proenza Schouler, Calvin Klein and Isabel Marant

By popular demand, I have decided to make this list of this summer’s dress trends. My selection of dresses from various designers will give inspiration and no mores excuses to stay cool and fashionable under the heat. Frocks that you will appreciate to wear everywhere at the beach house in South California or in the parks of your favorite city. From the colorful boho dresses by Isabel Marant to the vintage “pioneer” look by Ralph Lauren, or the modern and minimalist Calvin Klein, these are some of my favorite trends of the current season.

Melissa Coker rocks at making the nerdy look even cooler than a hipster. Wren Fall’s collection will make you want to revive your prep years with some uniform-inspired jackets, typical librarian cardigan or slouchy pants with sprayed-over paint the artsy girls.

The collection is ecclectic with various structures, patterns and color combinations. Some of the clothes could definitely work for both day and night wear. The cropped leopard jacket and navy cape are already a hit. And if you can pull off these socks like the models, you will be the it-girl in class. This A/W 10 collection is surely a great development from last year’s, more mature and a solid harmony in the styling. I hate to say that, but this line is ready for the mainstream.

Who said all models were a bunch of conniving, anorexic, indifferent, frigid and unintelligent chicks? Well, you will change your mind once you meet the young and fresh face Chloe Melissa Norgaard. Chloe is a contradiction to the industry archetypes. Not only she is a sublime beauty, Chloe is literally fun, down-to-Earth and more humble than any regular woman you’ll meet in New York City. As you will be reading her story, most of us may draw inspiration from her extraordinary personal experiences, and hard to believe, she just turned 20 years old. So it’s been a great chance, I had, to meet her at Café Bergamote, in Chelsea, where we enjoyed a long conversation, drinking coffees and eating the candies she brought in a ziploc bag, the same size of her handbag. A few days later, with the help of my friend and photographer Sonia Salvador, Chloe demonstrated her versatility and ease in front of the camera in this fun and colorful photoshoot. Enjoy!

(Interview was made on June 3rd.)

Can you tell us a little bit about your background?

I was born in LA, moved to Texas at the age of 2, and then have lived on Long Island since I was 7 years old. And now I have been living in the city for about two and a half years. My dad is Danish and my mom is from Polish, Irish decent and a little bit of French too.

Have you ever been to Denmark?

I go to Denmark twice a year because I have a bunch of friends and family all over Denmark. I’ve been there last Christmas and will go back in July.

Where in the city do you live?

East Village.

What do you like about the East Village, and what are your favorite spots and stores?

I like walking around, people watching and then looking at graffitis and street arts. Then I’ll go to any art gallery or store that would catch my attention.

Any favorite gallery?

I just like walking into the ones that I see. But the Morrison Hotel gallery is really cool because it’s all rock-n-roll inspired and it’s always fun to go there. Sometimes there could be live music and the guys that work there are really fun and interesting to talk to. I used to work at Blue & Cream on Bowery which is right next door.

Where do you like to shop?

I buy clothes from everywhere, there is no certain store I like the most. Vintage shops are one of my favorites. These are the best because you can find interesting pieces that make me feel like they carry a story. Of course they are also unique; it’s not like mass-produced clothes and everyone would have the same exact thing. Clothes might have stains or holes, and you can either fix it or just let it stay.

There is one really cool store called BESS in Nolita, they make their own pieces and it’s really rock-n-roll…definitely a cool store to check out. Other than that I don’t have a particular store I like. I usually go by what I see in their window.

Where are your favorite places to eat?

I love tacos, La Esquina is one of my favorite taco places. I love spicy food. For Pizza, two boots is really good. There is a really good Indian place by me. You get a huge bowl of rice and curry and all these good stuff for 3 dollars. It’s called Punjabi, and it’s so good. 16 handles is my ultimate favorite place for ice cream (laugh).
Read full story »

So what could be possible hotter than the current heatwave striking New York City and many other cities in the world? 102 degrees Fahrenheit will feel just as chills after viewing the upcoming #66 issue by V Magazine. Programmed to be launched on July 8th, V Magazine is releasing two explosive editorials as part of their Sexy Body Issue. “Spanish Bombshells” and “Pinup Girls”, shot respectively by Txema Yeste and Franck de Blase, feature an army of pin-ups including Ana Beatriz, Hilary Rhoda, Bette Frank, Kim Cloutier, Tori Praver, Candice Swanepoel and Hilary Rhoda. Clothes are accidentally used, since “the more skin, the better” prevails.

Click each image to zoom.

Read full story »

Model: Tiernan Cowling - Photographer: Mark Hunter, the Cobrasnake

Difficult to not fall in love with LA and Australian model, recently engaged to DJ Steve Aoki, Tiernan Cowling. Shot in the streets of LA by the mischievous photographer Mark the Cobrasnake on a sightseeing tour ride from Hollywood boulevard to an In-N-Out’s drive-in. As usual, Wildfox gives us thrills in the back with a playful and light-hearted lookbook for their Holiday/Resort 2010 collection. Ok… probably, only in LA you can wear mini-shorts and cropped sweaters; after all it’s a collection true to its nature and success. With a fresh inspiration from the 80’s and 90’s, Kimberley Gordon does a great job of putting together a line that will keep your winter warm and fabulous.

There are those, I know, who will say that the liberation of humanity, the freedom of man and mind, is nothing but a dream. They are right. It is the American dream. ~Archibald MacLeish

Happy Birthday USA! It’s 4th July, a day to celebrate the values and the history that made the USA such a wonderful country. A country that inspired and fascinated all of us for so many years in every domain, from music to fashion, from technology to sports, and so on. That country which adopted me 3 years ago, where I enjoyed every single moment, witnessing the patriotism, the abnegation of defeat, and the obsession for freedom and hope even in the worst situations. The spirit you’ll only find here where every dreams come true. Back when I was a in France, I was one of these skeptical persons thinking that the Americans were nuts, with their beliefs and stereotypes. Today, even if the country has its own good and bad sides, I will always be grateful for the chances and opportunities that came to me.

Follow the all-American Karlie Kloss, photographed by the British Alasdair McLellan, in this editorial dedicated to all things USA. Discovering their American pastimes wearing American-inspired outfits from the latest runway collections.