Designer Profile | Prabal Gurang

Prabal Gurang has dressed the likes of Michelle Obama at a White House Correspondents’ dinner at Washington’s Hilton Hotel, Kristen Stewart at the South Korea premiere of Eclipse, and Heidi Mount at the CFDA awards. With a CV like this, it’s essential we add Gurang to our list of celebrated designers.

Gurang first appeared at New York fashion week in February of last year, following his first runway show in a tent at Bryant Park. The Singapore-born designer has built up a worldly design knowledge after several years of travel and working for numerous stylists and design houses. He interned at Donna Karen while winning Best Designer at the Parsons Design awards, and went on to spend two years at Cynthia Rowley’s. His successful career led him on to gain the seat as the design director at Bill Blaiss for five years, which stirred the talented designer to start his own namesake design house, to the joy of many women’s wardrobes around the world.
Gurang has been celebrated for his precise lines, earning him a Fashion Fund Award and a nomination at the 2010 CDFA Swarovski Womenswear Awards. The designers latest collection takes visually beautiful yet also wearable designs to another level, utilising a monochrome and gold palette to create a host of clear-cut dresses.

The inspiration for the collection draws from the little beauties in life, such as his mum’s YSL Rive Gauche perfume back in the 1970s. Sometimes designers inspiration is hard to see in an outfit, but Gurang sets the mood of the collection clearly, translating the stripes of the perfume packaging onto the pattern on his outfits.

The Singaporean also pulls stimulation from the way in which New York women dress themselves, which is probably why his designs can translate so well into every women’s wardrobe. He attends social gatherings uptown and downtown to get a feel for what a woman really wants in an outfit, what more could we ask for in a womenswear designer? -Isabella Stockwell

Copyright ©2010 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Bravo Alexander McQueen | RIP 10/02/2010 | One Of The Greatest Designers Of Our Time

Alexander McQueen Spring Summer 10

Alexander McQueen died aged 40. London is in mourning, this is just before London Fashion Week starts and everyone has fashionitis. Bizarre, creative, original, often beautiful clothes he was a genius. Here we celebrate him- Bravo Alexander.

2008 Runway Alexander McQueen

Farewell Alexander 11th Feb 2010

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Fashion Week Diary | Yotam Solomon SS10

After the Boudoir D'huitres presentation, Yevgeniya and I headed down to Tribeca to view a unique exhibit which intertwined haute interior design with haute fashion. The event was hosted by fashion designer Yotam Solomon and interior designer Preston Lee at the Design Within Reach showroom. It was a fun soiree filled with beautiful people, great music and amazing designs. Yotam has been one of our most adored fashion designers here at Haute Mimi you can view his interview here. I've been an admirer of Preston's work for many years now, he creates spaces with an old Hollywood aura with a modern twist, see more of his work here. We will be sure to bring you more from these two gorgeous designers in the coming season. Stay tuned.

-Mimi

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Interview With Designer Daisy Gonzalez

Daisy Gonzalez is a designer we are watching here at Haute Mimi. Her designs are chic and fun, a combo we adore. Daisy was recently chosen as the winner of the Patricia Field, "Confessions of a Shopoholic" contest. Her collection provides a fun twist to sophisticated elegance. We personally love her feather belts and girly yet streamlined cocktail dresses. Here are some thoughts Daisy shared with us about her personal style and also tips to help you look your best.

HM: Describe your style in one word.

DG: Unparalleled.

HM: What is your best-kept fashion secret?

DG: Wear what you feel comfortable in. It is so easy to spot somebody who is uncomfortable in their own clothes, so take an outfit and make it your own! Don’t try to follow any trends

HM: Where is your favorite place to shop?

DG: Great things are everywhere, Vintage Shops, Boutiques, Online; it’s all about how you put them together. Creativity is key.

HM: Who is your style icon?

DG: My top three are Frida Kahlo, Jackie Onassis and Carrie Bradshaw. Frida Kahlo’s style embodied her culture and the colors make you come to life. Jackie Onassis had such a classic, sophisticated and beautiful style. Ms. Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City because she is fun, free and uninhibited.

HM: What is the biggest fashion mistake a woman can make when getting dressed?

DG: Again, I would have to say wearing something that makes the woman feel uncomfortable. Always keep your individuality with anything you wear. It makes things more interesting.

HM: What is one lesson you are grateful for learning throughout your career in fashion?

DG: Don’t be afraid to take risks.

HM: What advice would you give to young fashion industry professionals trying to make their fame?

DG: Surround yourself with what you love. If you love fashion begin to make it part of your everyday life, take action. Network with people in the same industry, keep yourself informed with what’s going on in the world of fashion and never let anyone keep you from doing what you love.

HM: If you could give women a fashion tip to be fabulous what would it be?

DG: Every woman is already FABULOUS! It’s just a matter of embracing it. Fashion tip…would have to be to work with your body. Know what works for YOU and remember YOU are what make the clothes fabulous not the other way around.

STYLEHIVE | Koi Suwannagate

Fashion designer Koi Suwannagate first came to my attention when she collaborated with Phillip Lim for his Spring 2007 collection (remember those rosette dresses that were sold out everywhere?). Also in 2007, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and Vogue chose the designer as a finalist for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award. Born in Bangkok and now designing out of Los Angeles, Koi is known for her romantic designs and signature draped cashmere pieces. It's easy to see why Kirsten Dunst, Oprah Winfrey and Christina Ricci have all worn pieces by Koi! We got a chance to talk to Koi, amidst her busy schedule, about who her favorite designers are and what we can expect from her next! Read on to see the interview and check out the slideshow to see her favorite pieces from her Spring collection, as well as a few beautiful looks that you can purchase from her online store. See more fashion stories from our fiends at Stylehive here.

On The Runway: Backstage Malandrino FW09

I am extremely inspired by Catherine Malandrino's look. She is indeed a very big inspiration in all realms. She looked flawless and powerful at her FW09 RTW show. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images North America)

FASHION STYLIST LAUNCHES FANTASTIC NEW COUTURE LINE PARIS 09

Hinks Taylor merges a strong feminine demeanor with a fiendish undercurrent. Designed for independent and imaginative women who want to be 'Sexy' in an intelligent and suggestive manner. Waists are slimmed and legs lengthened to create and incredibly flattering and feminine collection that leaves a provocative and arresting impression.

Hinks Taylor said: "This collection is for women who want to set a trend. The designs are striking and instantly recognizable . We want women to feel a freshness of style that is expressive, full of personality and secrets. We want to create a ‘look’, which says; independent, confident and sexy-traits, which encompass the modern woman.

Full collection Paris March 09. Personal Stylists and Fashionistas watch this space this is a name to remember.-Gabrielle Teare

Interview with Jodi Arnold, designer of MINT Jodi Arnold

Jodi Arnold is the hip, modern and glam designer behind Mint Jodi Arnold. The contemporary line that has stolen the hearts of cosmopolitan women everywhere, who want au courant clothing. We had to get Jodi's insider dish on her take on the fashion world to what label she admires. View the entire Mint jodi Arnold collection here.

HM: What are your three favorite fibers or textiles to work with?

JA: I love all natural fibers. I enjoy silks like charmeuse, crepe de chine, and georgette silk the most for their drapeability. We use these a lot in the collection because they always give ease to any silhouette. I also enjoy cotton for its breathability and the possibility to create unique folds and darts that add interest. For coats and jackets I enjoy working in heavy wools. I aim at creating a jacket that is 3 dimensional and looks sharp on a hanger.

HM: What is your fashion philosophy
JA: For me, fashion is not art; it’s a fine line between art and commerce. It doesn’t make sense to me to create clothing that no one can wear. The joy is in creating something that is beautiful and art inspired yet wearable for many kinds of people.

HM: What are some of the first things you think of when you start to create a design?

JA: First and foremost, I always try to think of how I would feel wearing it. Would I feel frumpy? Would I feel like that it’s too young? Does it have something new and unique about it? Would I feel confident in this? Once I decide on a general silhouette, I see what I can do to make it new and interesting--a new pleat, a new drape, a new embellishment.

HM: Do you believe that any woman of any size can look sexy and glamorous?

JA: Of course! I love to see women of all sizes feeling confident. Feeling sexy and glamorous is about much more than the clothes you wear. It has everything to do with how you feel about yourself.

HM: Do you have a favorite piece from your own collections?
JA: I do; I love the Pia Dress from the Jodi Arnold Fall Collection. It’s easy to wear and I love the unique, hand crafted detail on the front.

HM: What fashion designer or label do you admire?

JA: I’m a fan of Dries Van Noten for its wearability and details, and I really admire Marc Jacobs for always pushing things forward.

HM: What is glamorous to you?

JA: For me, glamorous is feeling healthy and confident in my own skin.

HM: Speaking of your fashion designs, are you working on or thinking of anything new and innovative for the future?

JA: We are very excited about a new laptop bag we created for Intel that will be advertised in the December issue of Lucky Magazine. It was interesting to work on something that was a little out of our "comfort zone,” but as soon as we saw the need for a fashionable laptop bag we had a lot of fun with it.

HM: Do you personally have any favorite types of designs that you love to wear?

JA: Coming into Fall, I love wearing a nicely cut pair of trousers. After a Summer of wearing dresses and skinny jeans, trousers with a nice leg seem so new and sophisticated. I especially love them when worn with a long, chunky, oversized cardigan and a pair of lace up shoes with a slight heel.

HM: What do you hate seeing on a woman's body?

JA: I guess it depends on the woman’s body, but I don’t feel like I’m the one to decide. I like seeing a woman what makes her feel good.

HM: Do you have a favorite fashion icon?

JA: I can’t say that I have one particular fashion icon, however, I do love Carine Roitfeld’s look and the fact that she is ALWAYS in fierce heels.

HM: What is your favorite type of dress to create?

JA: Because the entire brand is art-inspired, I am always looking to put a unique twist on a traditional dress. Dresses are a fantastic way to feel comfortable, sexy, and versatile at the same time. I like to give a woman options with her dress- the ability to wear with or without a belt; with heels, flats, or boots; or from daytime to nighttime. And our dresses are, of course, always designed to flatter a woman’s body.

What I'm Watching- Valentino: The Last Emperor

I'm looking forward to seeing, Valentino: The Last Emperor. This documentary film chronicles the past two years of Valentino's career as well as his relationship with his partner of 50 years Giancarlo Giammetti. It's an intimate look at the life of a fashion icon who will never be forgotten. For more information click here.

Required Reading: YSL Style

YSL Style, is the latest book I've been flipping through. The book is a compilation of sketches, garments and the sparkling history of the label and man who shaped the fashion industry. Each page is filled with decadence and fantasy. Pre-order your copy today and live the dream every time. -M

Interview With New Fashion Designer Yotam Solomon

Yotam Solomon, is the talented new fashion designer of his namesake line of clothing as well as footwear. He creates amazing garments, taking his inspiration from the, "beautiful universe, stars and the sky" as well as the casual luxury of his west-coast upbringing. We wanted to know what he had to say on style. Here's the interview, enjoy.

HM: Describe your style in one word.
YS: Wearable Avant Garde. (or just Avant Garde, if you prefer)

HM: What is your best-kept fashion secret?
YS: I'm a fashion clairvoyant. (Just kidding!)

HM: Where is your favorite place to shop?
YS: Maxfield in LA

HM: Who are your style icons?
YS: Sophia Loren, Anna Wintour, and Giorgio Armani.

HM: What is the biggest fashion mistake a woman can make when getting dressed?
YS: Don't imitate anyone, come up with your own style.

HM: What is one lesson you are grateful for learning throughout your career in fashion?
YS: Always believe in yourself.

HM: What advice would you give to young fashion industry professionals trying to make their fame?
YS: Timing is everything, go for what you want.

HM: If you could give women a fashion tip to be fabulous what would it be?
YS: Dress according to your own taste, be comfortable, and most importantly wear fashion that makes you feel powerful.

Biography of Enrico Converi by Vanessa Lee

The name on everyone’s lips is Enrico Coveri, the Italian designer is known for his iconic bold and striking designs of which have caught the attention of the likes of Vogue and Elle UK. Born in Prato, Italy in 1952 Enrico studied stage design at the Accademi delle Belle in Florence for a few years before moving into freelance design. Working particularly with sportswear and knitwear, he became known for his use of pastel tones., use of detailing such as sequins and love of fine quality material. Some of his clients included Touche, Tycos and Lux Sports.

However his passion to start his own busines took over and he opened his first place in Milan in 1981, which followed me several more stores across the country and finally New York which included perfumes and furniture. However his main line was a ready-to-wear line for woman, males and kids with bags, shoes, bags and hats. Along the way Enrico won the Uomo Europeo award, Rome, 1982 and Fil d'Or award, Munich, 1982. He continued successfully running his business until his death in 1990 at the young age of 38 years old. However his business was continued by his family and under the charge of his sister the collections to come reflected on his own unique style and legacy.His influence and trademark style has inspired the likes of Louise Goldin and Jonathan Saunders.

The Mystery in Malandrino

Daring. Desirable. Distinguished. Catherine Malandrino understands the importance of seduction. Her collections never fail to embrace the vivacious energy of Manhattan and the subtle romance of Paris. A bohemian influence is evident in many of Malandrino's designs, as she garners inspiration from her worldly adventures. She is well known for creating the American flag dress, which was exhibited at the Fashion & Textile Museum in London. Wearing a Malandrino creation can make even the shyest girl the center of attention. To add some sizzle, adorn yourself with a dress from her spring/summer collection. You'll be the fiesta. It's worth every penny.

Interview With Designer Meghan Fabulous

“Fashion is the driving force of my life. It is my air, water, and food that keeps me going everyday." -Meghan

Meghan is no stranger to the fashion industry. Her clothing has been featured in top fashion magazines of the likes of WWD, Elle and Glamour to name a few. Taking inspiration from different cultures, Meghan has fused exotic elements with classic sophisticated silhouettes to create a signature look that speaks volumes. The designs are exotic, feminine, sexy and most all fabulous! We had to get the scoop on Meghan's design principles as well as the dish on what she thinks is haute. Here's the interview.

HM: What are your three favorite fibers or textiles to work with?
MF: Mostly silk fibers, it’s SO luxurious and feels great against the skin. My three favorite qualities of silk to work with are charmeuse, crepe De chine and silk twill.

HM: What is your fashion philosophy (what are your strongest feelings about fashion)?
MF:We are not saving babies or finding the cure for diseases, it’s just fashion and it shouldn't be taken so seriously.

HM: What are some of the first things you think of when you start to create a design?
MF: Color First!!! It seems that everything falls into place after that; my vibe, design inspiration, etc.

HM: Do you believe that any woman of any size can look sexy and glamorous?
MF: Sexy and glamourous is a state of mind- any woman has the power to feel amazing, it’s all in her confidence. I feel that my clothes only accentuate a women's strongest features which help her feel sexy, confident and glamourous.

HM: What fashion designer or label do you admire?
MF: Elsa Scaparielli, John Galliano for Dior, Biba, just to name a few!

HM: Will you ever create a fragrance line?
MF: Definitely, I think a fragrance completes a designers’ vision. This is what my woman/customer/ muse should look, walk, talk and smell like.

HM: What is glamorous to you?
MF: The most glamourous think is confidence.

HM: Speaking of your fashion designs, are you working on or thinking of anything new and innovative for the future?
MF: I am trying to create my own new blend of silk that is environmentally friendly.

HM: What do you hate seeing on a woman's body?
MF: I wear Meghan everyday, lots of color because I like to show on the outside how I feel on the inside. I also try to highlight a provocative feature like my legs or my cleavage.

HM: Do you have a favorite fashion icon?
MF: Barbie! I worship her.

HM: What is your favorite type of dress to create?
MF: Colorful, stylized, sexy with many intricate details.

HM: What kind of woman wears your designs?
MF: A sexy, sophisticated confident woman that appreciates finer details and can be the center of attention.

HM: How has your cultural background effected your designs?
MF: I grew up in Southern California on the Beach and you can see the ocean influences in my designs. From the sexy cuts to the fun colors and cool lightweight luxe fabrics. California is really is a Mecca of all cultures and I draw from all of them: Hispanic, Asain, European and African.

See More of Meghan at www.MeghanFabulous.com

Interview With fashion Designer Edwing D’Angelo

Edwing D’Angelo's Fall 2008 collection was simply gorgeous. Taking inspiration from Edwardian and Victorian times Edwin spun together modern classics that were compelling and memorable. I had to get the hot new designer's say on style. Here is what Edwing spilled.

HM: Describe your style in one word.
ED: Uber-chic: Eclectic elegance in an exuberant modernism.

HM: What is your best-kept fashion secret?
ED: Review the DNA of the past of high fashion as a blueprint of today and tomorrow's fashion.

HM: Where is your favorite place to shop?
ED: Every and any store that makes an effort to offer its clientele an unique shopping experience, not involving mass produced items, offers one of a kind items and/or specializes in a particular style of fashion, other than denim or urban.

HM: Who is your style icon?
ED: From yesterday, undeniably the grand Cristobal Balenciaga. Fromtoday, every person out there who has declared their fashion independence and follow his/her own style of fashion.

HM: What is the biggest fashion mistake a woman can make when getting dressed?
ED: Not understanding that fashion should work for them and not the other way around, that they have to become victim of fashion. Once a woman undertands that there is no stopping in looking at her best at all times,there will be no more mistakes when getting dressed.

HM: What is one lesson you are grateful for learning throughout your career in fashion?
ED: That not everything that shines is gold (Smile!). Seriously, the major lesson has been that fashion is like any other business part of an industry, you have to come into it with that in mind, talent alone does not cut it. You need to know about running a business and fashion has taught me a great lesson about pulling everything from within me to fight an uphill battle to survive.
Unfortunately, unlike Paris where fashion is a religion, in Italy where fashion is an Art, in New York City is a bottom line industry, money.

HM:What advice would you give to a young fashion industry professionals trying to make their fame?
ED: I would like to continue with my last answer by adding that you can only focus on nourishing your talents as a fashion designer, but you must prepare yourself in other aspects of business, you must learn about finance, marketing (public relations, sales, product placement,promotions), legal, languages, other fine arts, etc. This is a very demanding and challenging business, the more prepared you are, the higher your odds of success will be.

HM: If you could give women a fashion tip to be fabulous what would it be?
ED: I would tell to start by learning themselves both physically and mentally and determine at a very early stage in their lives who they are and what works for them. If women can make that absolute decision -the rest is a walk in the park.

Heatherette, You Slay Me

I always say designers should be really eccentric. Richie Rich and T are just that. But what I love about them is that they are so intelligent and know exactly how to make the most random thing (take hello kitty for instance) and make it into something fabulous, i.e., Hello Kitty Couture. Their shows are always so much fun and it brings together everyone from Club Kids to Park Ave Princesses. I loved their Fall 06' collection. after seeing all thos eboring and bland shows Heatherette was like a fresh breathe of air. Here are Mimi's Picks. Ciao.

Volumous Dresses are a must in the coming seasons! Stock Up Buttercup.

Club Kids, Say yes! Metallics were all over fall runways. I don't mind. As long as it doesn't look cheesy, go for it. Don't do it in the daytime. No matter what.

Tres Chic, I loved this look. Especially The apple motif. Stripes stripes and more stripes. Just be careful with horizontal stripes.If you can't pull it off then stay away. You might end up looking more like an obese prisoner than a chic French sex kitten.

These are my all time fave looks from Heatherette. They're all out NY glamour and I just love that. I don't know if high street stores will pick up on this trend but I would be in heaven if they did.

-Mimi