Dancing with the Mop: Lessons Learned from Studying Abroad

Photo: Museo Nacional del Prado

By Bethy Hardeman, follow her blog on Yahoo!

I walked out of my third- floor apartment in Madrid, Spain to the sound of Antonio's birds chirping above me. I looked up after shutting the door to see Antonio himself cleaning in the hallway. He looked up and a smile crept across his chubby face.

"What are you doing, Antonio?" I asked in Spanish.

He stopped his cleaning briefly and smiled bigger. "I'm dancing," he said, winking, "dancing with the mop." He immediately swooped the mop up in his arms and commenced a funny little dance, humming merrily as he did so.

That was my study abroad experience. It wasn't filled with loud dorm rooms full of other American students or large universities packed to the brim with English-speaking young people. No, my experience involved a small language school in the center of Madrid, weekend adventures around Europe and, of course, friendly Spanish faces.

My program at Tandem, Madrid kept me on my toes with classes taught completely in Spanish. Apart from an intensive language course each day, we could also choose from a variety of cultural classes, such as Art and Architecture and Spanish Film. Through my Art and Architecture class, I enjoyed taking walks with colleagues through old and new sections of the city, exploring the architecture we were studying in person.

Excursions around Europe during my study abroad semester allowed me to experience culture outside of the classroom. I learned how to travel independently, despite limited language knowledge, travel frugally by staying in hostels and going by train, and travel thoroughly by experiencing destination cities by foot and immersing myself in the culture.

But at the end of the day, my favorite part about studying abroad was the people I met there. Antonio was the doorman of my apartment building. When not "dancing with the mop," he could be found sitting at the front desk, building a wooden cage for his birds. He would inevitably stop me to pull out a picture of the biggest fish he ever caught, proudly pointing out how large it was. And then there was Jaime, my language exchange partner. We didn't just get together to help each other with our pronunciation. Jaime gave me a real-life language learning experience when he took me car shopping one afternoon. Then there were of course my fellow students at Tandem. Since many of them didn't speak English well, we could only communicate effectively by practicing our Spanish together. I learned how to properly drink beer from a German dentist and how to have fun doing just about anything with friends in the city from a skinny French student. But most of all, I learned how to be confident in speaking the language that will always have my heart: Spanish.

Gal about the Globe on the Set of HBO's "Rome"

Araceli ran into some actors while touring the set as well. Perhaps she was an extra on the set of HBO's Rome, an extra from the future that is, as her clothes are clearly sewn and of the moment!

Rome Today Visits Largest Olive Tree in Europe: L’ulive più grande d’Europa

Olive harvest 2011 was a healthy success! Thanks to our friends from La Tartaruga Sabina, the villa and estate of the Micheletta family, Rome Today learned about the thorough process of turning olives into oil for a year-long supply of extra virgin olive oil. Luckily, their amazing OSCO olive oil will soon be available on store shelves in the United States, with New York as its first stop. In our upcoming video (log on to Rome Today), we’ll learn more about the beautiful region of Sabina and its most prized possession – Sabina DOP extra virgin olive oil!

Along the tour, we took a quick detour and drove up to the oldest and largest olive oil tree of in all of Europe. To our surprise, we discovered the tree stands on private property and the lovely owner – Ottavio Bertini – stepped out to greet us. We couldn’t resist and quickly asked him to give us a quick interview on the history of how this amazing tree has managed to weather the storm all these years. Like everything else, it’s a miracle when you consider that its trunk measures 7 meters in diameter and it’s been certified to be over 2,400 years in age! Luckily, this olive tree is protected by the European Union for years to come.

After seeing this tree, it’s easy to understand why this region produces golden olive oil in surplus.

A Fellow Gal about the Globe Publishes "Femoir"

I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Montreal-based international color marketing expert, Catherine Larose. As a Gal about the Globe, I’m always looking for older Gals about the Globe. They are mentors who’ve not just “been there done that,” but offer a window into my own future as they’ve blazed so many of life’s trails I can’t wait to trample through. Any Color But Beige: Living Life in Color is Larose's new, honest femoir documenting her ethnically diverse background, globe-trotting career, lifestyle, and relationships.

“The book itself is what I call a circular memoir,” says Larose, “it starts off with my very colorful Irish-Italian-American childhood. Then growing up and my life as an adult—during which I lived a very beige and secure marriage in the suburbs; my beige existence.” One of the most significant changes in Larose’s life came one day when working in Paris. While gazing at the Paris sunset she “wanted to fold it up, put it in my pocket and take it home with me.” Larose discovered that something was missing from her life—color—and didn’t want to continue living the rest of her life in beige. “I made some major changes to put color back into my life, which is very ironic because I sell color for a living,” Larose begins, “so here I am putting color into everyone’s lives as a result of my job, traveling the world, not realizing all along that what’s missing from my life is color.”

The book is divided into sections of Larose’s life based on color; primary colors coincide with her childhood, while colorblind coincides with her divorce. Chicago, Paris, Shanghai, Johannesburg, and Trieste are a few destinations of Larose’s life story, as is her creative career as an international color marketing expert. Her descriptive voice and presentations on color marketing and color intuition are clever, and made me feel like I was dropping in on conference rooms around the world. I’ll never look at color or a paint chip quite the same again, as there’s a “tactical side,” and a contextual story side to her job that is so specialized, and yet so every-day, you’d forget it must be somebody’s job to sell color.

But what Larose really does with color in this book is make you realize that color represents so much of who we are, who we want to be, and especially who others are. While I don’t want to give away the whole story, as featured in the book trailer above, Larose flies back home from Paris, divorces her husband, and paints her bedroom a beautiful Bordeaux red. “I’m not advocating divorce as a means to put color in your life, not at all, otherwise, I wouldn’t have been married for 20 years,” Larose says, “but I think that was necessary for me to move on in my life.”

Any Color But Beige: Living Life in Color is a memoir, but reads like a travel narrative, with a little red suitcase from Larose’s childhood dragging its way through Larose’s travels and life tribulations. The book can be purchased on Amazon, available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book. You can also check out Catherine Larose’s blog, updated regularly, at Café Girl Chronicles

Meeting with NY Fashion Designer Bradley Scott

While in New York City for fashion week last month, I headed to 7th avenue, aka Fashion Avenue, as it sits in the city’s Garment District. Previously the textile-manufacturing Mecca of America, the Garment District is still considered a fashion capitol among designers and it is where I visited up-and-coming designer, Bradley Scott, in his showroom. Scott received this year’s Fashion Group International Rising Star Award for Ladies Clothing.

Stepping off the elevator and making our way to his showroom, my colleague Sheila, another writer and consultant for Stila cosmetics, remarked that the experience felt like an episode on Project Runway or another fashion reality show. “And this room, right here,” Sheila remarked, “that’s where Whitney Port was showing off her new collection on ‘The City.’” The open-spaces were very loft-like, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors, stark white walls, and not much else separating each showroom. We passed designer Altuzarra and made our way through the doors of Bradley Scott, where a mannequin in a glossy yellow leather jacket greeted us upon entrance.

Once inside, Scott gave us a sneak peak at his Spring 2012 collection, which is great for Texas weather because the fabric used in the line is very light weight and the dresses aren’t heavy or overloaded with too many layers. “All of these solids are 100% silk,” Scott explained, picking a flowing yellow dress out from the bunch. “There’s no synthetic, there’s no wool, there’s no linen, so it won’t wrinkle. They are fun vibrant colors—I know the South loves color; [they come in] green, navy, saffron, and light saffron.”

Scott draws his inspiration from the famous Italian designer Gianni Versace. “He treated fabrics and took the technique of fabric manipulation and made it more special than what the fabric mills did,” Scott says. “Versace was given a beautiful fabric, chopped it up, embroidered it with leather, lace, buttons, and sequins and made it his own. I think that when you make your own design, your own way, from the raw material up until the production stage, it is fantastic.” Scott also does a lot of fabric manipulation, like his inspiration; he chops it up, embroiders the edges, ruffles things, and embroiders his own organza. “I take things unexpected, like lace over a saffron lining, and strips of hand-cut patent leather. So I do a lot of creative stuff with fabrics and use really different techniques that I don’t think are on the market.”

95% of Scott’s fabrics come from Biella, Italy, near Lake Como, where the oldest mills in Italy reside (circa 1812). The fabric-making process is “all done by hand,” as they start with a swatch and then change it around. “It’s really a very fun process,” Scott adds, “and the Carlisle Collection uses the same mills which is how I got in touch with them.” Starting in the fashion industry at age 19, Scott worked for the Carlisle Collection for eight years, eventually resigning to create his own line after graduating from the prestigious Parson’s School of Design in New York City.

When asked about the experience at Parsons he said, “Besides the no sleep and insane deadlines? That’s pretty much it. You went there to work and I did not have much of a social life. I was very focused, I knew what I wanted and I also had a fulltime job while I was there.”

Take a look at Scott’s designs in the slideshow above or check out his website.

Araceli Speaks Out about Occupy Rome Protests Turned Riots

As for the Rome riots this weekend, what can I say. I’m horribly disappointed. I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t recognize my own city. My heart sank watching the news coverage of the riots. All I could see were groups of masked and hooded thugs destroying the city I call home and have grown to love just as much as my own country. Like any city, Rome has its own problems but nothing justifies what we witnessed this Saturday. Nothing justifies attacks on police, smashing windows, setting vehicles on fire and throwing up barricades. I pray they round up those thugs…and throw away the key!

I took a few pictures on Monday driving into work but nothing compares to the real damage they caused that was closed off for clean up. What happened on Saturday is NOT Rome! It’s the action of a few demonstrators that infiltrated a peaceful protest causing terror and havoc with no clear message. The results surprised us all. Occupy Wall Street...Occupy Rome...Occupy whatever capital city you want, but don’t destroy it!

Fashion Week San Antonio Finale

Fashion Week San Antonio wrapped up on Friday evening with a final Fashion Group International (FGI) event, “The Emerging Designer Show.” Hosted in an historical part of Sunset Station, “The Depot,” the runway show began spectacularly thanks to the beautiful building’s vaulted ceilings, balcony seating and 1,000 lights. State Representative Joaquin Castro, was not only excited about San Antonio’s third annual fashion week, but commented that the city would continue to support such an artistic endeavor showcasing San Antonio and Texas talent for years to come.

The first models down the catwalk wore Malissa Long’s Spring/Summer 2012 creations, which began with smaller fitted clothes, and continued with looser, cooler numbers, like a fun orange “trash bag” dress with chest embellishments. Long’s pieces often mixed the fitted and loose look, and while her poufy gray shorts and splash-colored dresses and tops were inspiring, be on the look-out for her array of multi-color-blocked handbags. They are a must-have.

Carol Reyes’s collection was a little bid louder, with interesting looks including a pink and black fur coat with silk waist belt over a fitted two-toned dress which was completed with ruffles around the bottom. Her creative take on color blocking included dresses with black and white polka dots. However—above everything else—her black flowered elbow-length gloves were so sexy and elegant I’d like to wear them everywhere—like a six-year-old princess; to school, to bed, to Halloween, everywhere.

Dolores Vernor featured warm weather clothes with intriguing detail; a gray calf-length coat with fur collars and cuffs, and black longhorn logos on pink background. The attention-getting “Cruella di Vil” jacket, another take on the popular color blocking, incorporated large vertical black and white stripes.

The “featured” designer of the evening was Adrienne Yunger, whose memorable outfits included her fresher designs. A man in golf clothes wore army green and navy blue plaid pants, accompanied by a bright blue billowy top with bright stripes. Other looks were Native American-inspired as men donned colorful coral pants with tops in Southwestern-colored palates which were also reflected in Yunger’s dresses.
Toni Jackson’s noteworthy House of Krimson label was inventive and reminiscent of ‘Lady Victoria’ while my favorite designs of the evening were created by the duo Monique Ganis and Petrecia Falcon. Their collection felt like I was going to London in the fall, winter—or even spring for that matter, thanks to the city’s temperamental weather. Gorgeous double breasted coats and chic gray business suits inspired, while a flowy umbrella jacket with bright red lining twirled and twirled. It was a romantic ending to a romantic evening.

Sagra dell’Uva (Grape Festival) in Marino

October is by far the best time to visit Rome. Temperatures are slightly cooler and grape season is in full swing. Wine is overflowing everywhere and bunches of fresh picked grapes are ready to be eaten. Especially in the medieval town of Marino where the “Sagra dell’Uva” attracted hundreds to drink up last year’s reserve to make room for this year’s vino novello. Since 1925, the town of Marino (south of Rome) has graciously shared with locals their abundant source of produce and wine by handing out over 150 tonnes of grapes and providing 3,000 litres of local white wine during their four-day festival. The highlight of the event is when they turn the water from the city’s main fountain into sparkling white wine giving visitors a taste of Marino’s famous wine.

The grape festival, which is one of the oldest in Italy, commemorates the return of Admiral Marcantonio Colonna to his home in Marino after his victory over the Turks at the Battle of Lepanto in October 1571. The sagra is celebrated during the month of October to give thanks for the safe return of more than 250 sailors sent to battle.

After all these years, Romans continue to show their appreciation for this victory and long-standing tradition by visiting Marino’s annual wine and grape festival.

Angelina Mata Atelier Premieres at New York Fashion Week

The entrance to Cult Studios is hidden behind plywood and a closed-off sidewalk when I arrive at the Flower District location near New York City’s Fashion Institute of Technology. Inside, Henry De La Paz, a hairdresser originally from the Rio Grande Valley, is preparing models with weaves, curls, and Princess Leia braids and ribbons for San Antonio designer Angelina Mata’s Spring/Summer 2012 ready-to-wear collection being unveiled at New York Fashion Week.

With 12 years on the ground in San Antonio, and time in L.A., London, and now New York City, De La Paz continues to work with Mata, traveling to San Antonio roughly every five weeks. “I’ve worked with her and her family for eight years,” he says proudly. The all-star cast of San Antonio artists coming together to support Mata’s new line also includes makeup artist Patrick Eichler, whose extensive career includes working with icons such as Alexander McQueen, Valentino and Zac Posen.

When I’m finally ushered into the studio, I find Mata’s Atelier vision showcased in a performance-art installation rather than the traditional runway show. While the approach is said to have been adopted by many fashion designers after 9/11 for budget constraints, it’s continued because of the way it allows an audience to study the designs more deeply. It’s a different but much more rewarding experience.

A dress made with silk organza and “enshrined underground for ten days” was arguably one of Angelina Mata Atelier’s most important pieces of the night, as Mata worked with fiber artist Laura Beehler who helped dye and weather the fabric to create what Mata’s marketing calls a unique “b(earth)ing.” The two buried the five yards of fabric wrapped around a rusty grate, embedded it with rose petals, and kept it wet, as if growing a plant. Once extracted from the ground, the silk organza was turned into a signature bespoke dress with the intention to look antiquated, and indeed it did, as the rust, rose petals, and leaves all left their mark.

Mata says that her silk organza gown, as well as the rest of her line, “translates into a concise ultramodern look with the haunt of ancient civilizations.” This may feel like a familiar trend, however by combining both modern and ancient elements — conforming the long silk organza gown to the body while also allowing it to flow off the body, for example, contributes to a blending of conservatism and progressivism.

However, this exquisite work was less accessible than Mata’s other ready-to-wear outfits, like the fitted, dark pink, off-the-shoulder chiffon dress; a cream A-line knee-length dress; or the stark-white fitted dresses outlined with green and pink. Mata’s tribute to color featured green, orange, and yellow dresses with unique patterns. One of my favorites was the purple skirt with copper belt, which appeared to have large copper medallions printed on it. Large, thick metal belts tied other dresses together as well, however as exciting as the dresses were, the talk of the night were the shoes.

Mata’s shoes were a collaborative effort; furniture artist Peter Zubiate and graphic artist Can2 assisted here, along with metal artist Jose Chapa, who also did all of the metal work for belts. Many of the models appeared to be perched on stilts as they stood on thick wooden platforms stuck to metal extensions — not your typical stiletto. The shoes created a futuristic fairy tale experience, and complemented the models’ vertically pinned thick braids. Some of the braids appeared to be spray painted, others were very pixie-fairy-esque, evoking the fresh appearance of the line. (With their hair down and undone, the models recalled the film Avatar.) In addition, jewelry designer Tracy Stephens helped execute Mata’s earrings.

Mata made it to New York Fashion Week with more than $8,000 in donations largely from the San Antonio community. A thank-you celebration for local friends and supporters is set for November 2 at Blue Star Contemporary Art Center, during which Mata will show the collection against the backdrop of departed SA artist Chuck Ramirez’ work.

New York City Fashion Week: Kaelen’s Comfortable Spring/Summer 2012 Collection

Toronto born, New York-based designer Kaelen Farncombe presented her Spring/Summer 2012 collection at Chelsea neighborhood’s Root Drive-In Studio. Upon arrival, myself and guests were given a baby pink program with black Rorschachs. But we didn’t know quite what to make of it once we finally previewed the collection, as we were ushered into a rectangular room where translucent pink sheets hung from the ceiling, along with tree branches. The leaves of the trees appeared to be on the models’ headbands, which was distracting from Kaelen’s new collection.

Perhaps the Rorschachs, pink sheets and leafless branches were meant to evoke a psychological, fairy tale dream, which coincided with the collection. Light-weight fabrics like chiffon, silk, and cotton in muted hues of pink, peach, and nude hung loosely from the models’ bodies. Some outfits were given a punch of color, like the cropped tee in orange silk noil, accompanied with a draped skirt in peach silk chiffon. However most of the looks included quiet button up rompers in nude crinkle cotton and a flowy draped pocket dress in cream crushed velvet, with a couple of louder looks like the pleated disco dress in white sheen ossido, and the blazer and slouch shirt in seafoam inkblot. The inkblot was incorporated into a few outfits as well.

While most of the collection was cohesive, the blazer and slouch pant in striped cotton, as well as a t-shirt looking-dress with a slit down the side called to mind pajamas. And then, once the image of pajamas struck my mind, I couldn’t help but think that, perhaps most of Kaelen’s collection could pass for pajamas: some looks were sexy, “my-boyfriend’s-coming-over” pajamas; some were casual and covered up, “I-haven’t-shaved" pajamas; and some were “whatever, I don’t give a shit” pajamas, that can be worn as clothes as well. With that said, I really did like the relaxed look of most of Kaelen’s pieces and think that the loose and flowy fit makes them comfortable to wear, while making the person look and stay cool.

Teen Vogue Fun at Fashion Week

Teen Vogue was there Too!

New York City Ten Years Later: 9/11/11

I had the opportunity to visit Ground Zero during the tenth anniversary of 9/11. While it is difficult to put into words the somberness of this day, above are some photos I took of the site, which includes St. Paul's Church (also damaged ten years ago),the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, the construction of One World Trade Center and more.

Lela Rose at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week NYC

I’m writing from Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City right now, and I’m finding it quite hard to tear myself away from fashion events and sites to sit down and write. Yesterday I checked out Lela Rose’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection; she is a noteworthy designer not only because she is from Texas—Dallas, that is—but because of her eclectic inspirations. Her inspiration for this collection came from the neon sign graveyards of Vegas and the amusement park of Coney Island.

At first, the words “graveyard” and “amusement park” didn’t ring romantic in my mind and I began to wonder whether or not zombie brides and ten-year old girls eating hotdogs would emerge onto the brightly lit runway. But once the show started, the audience, and myself, were captivated by the nostalgic representation of the “burnt-out bulbs, electric and playful spirit” Rose envisioned. Her collection told a story about time, fading light, life, and a longing for “what was.” The story was told with bleached metallic tweeds, striped paint twill, and washed out voile. Blocked silhouettes, cyclone prints, chipped embroidery and carnival stretched cotton were other components of the collection creating a romantic and nostalgic vibe. I cannot wait till this collection is available for purchase. Previously, you have found Lela Rose at a local Nordstrom’s, Neiman Marcus, or online. However, you’ll want to check out the Lela Rose for Payless Spring ’12 shoe collection.

Celebrities in attendance included Susan Sarandon with daughter Eva Amurri, Mandy Moore, famous stylist Robert Verdi, and Desiree of Gal about the Globe, to name a few.

Underage Fashion (and sex) at Katy Perry Last Night.

“So, how do I look?” I asked my one-and-only before heading to the Katy Perry concert at the AT&T Center last night. “Like all the other soccer moms who’ll be accompanying their 14-year-old daughters,” he jokingly replied. “Stop,” I began, “her lyrics are way too explicit for kids.” I was certain that not only would the show be an adult concert, but that to fit in with the trannies and drag queens whom happen to follow Kitty Purry (her alter ego in which she actually dresses up as a kitty and looks like a drag queen herself), I’d need to improvise my fashion a bit. I wore a translucent red top with a black lace bra, copper and gold sky-high heels, a pair of gaudy earrings I bought in Portugal, and stonewash jeans that were so tight I couldn’t look down while seated. I felt like one of those pregnant women who can’t see their feet after seven or eight months—except way hotter, obviously.

However—and how does everybody get the memo on these things but me?—I was not savvy enough to wear a bright blue or pink bee-hive wig (as a tribute, I’m assuming) to Perry last night. Upon arrival to the AT&T Center, my girlfriend and I noticed all the wigs running around us; wigs that were finished off with outfits like leopard-print pants, sparkly dresses and candy-cane tops that were so unbelievably fitted they looked painted on. Upon closer inspection, and much to my dismay, we noticed that many of the wigsters were actually 14-year-old girls!

“Candice,” I said to my fabulous friend just featured as NSIDE Magazine’s Style and Substance—shameless plug—“how can parents let their daughters come to a Katy Perry concert? This is Katy Perry, not Britney Spears circa 1999.” She replied, “Wow, I don’t know,” reciting their lyrics, “that one song, I kissed a girl and I liked it? Really, Mom? Maybe their parents just don’t know what the songs say.” As we made our way to our seats, I thought, even though I’d just jammed out to Perry’s Teenage Dreams CD in my car that afternoon, and even though California "Dreams" also happens to be the name of the tour, and would obviously feature such songs from said CD, that perhaps I was overreacting. “Well, maybe they’re not that bad.” I couldn’t quite recall the lyrics anyhow in that particular moment due to drinking a double vodka tonic without eating dinner (FYI: if you want to lose weight for fashion week, vodka tonic has almost no calories).

When the concert started, Perry opened with “Teenage Dream”—a song that wasn’t actually all that bad, if the adult in you could forget the allusion to sex, “I’m a get your heart racing in my skin-tight jeans, be your teenage dream tonight. Let you put your hands on me in my skin-tight jeans, be your teenage dream tonight.” But it was all downhill from there, from her ballad of “I kissed a girl and I liked it, I hope my boyfriend don’t mind it,” to “You’re so gay and you don’t even like boys,” and also, “I want to see your Peacock, cock, cock, your Peacock, cock, cock.” It was in this “cock” moment that I heard Candice state a ghastly, “Oh my God, she’s making a motion like she’s jerking off her microphone!” I, however, disagreed with Candi, how could she think something like this? “Candi, no. She’s giving the microphone a blow job, hello? That swift motion is a pop-culture connotation for blow jobs.”

“God,” she said, “I’d really hate to be here with my daughter right now.” Not that either of us has a daughter, but were glad that we didn’t.

If you could get past the fact that you were sitting next to a bunch of kids last night, and could refrain from trying to cover their eyes (unlike Candi), the concert was actually one of the best ones I’ve been to in a long time. I’d put it up there with Ani Difranco in Rome and Pearl Jam in Chicago. If you’ve always wondered— like I did—whether Perry was one of those Hollywood sell-outs who only sounds good in the recording studio, then wonder no more. She really does have a great set of pipes and not only rocked the house with them but serenaded us on her glittery guitar from a cotton candy-cane cloud above. She’s also a great entertainer with unique fashions and props that set her apart from other acts. I will say one thing though: Perry’s success seems to lie in the fact that, most of her songs are filled with catchy but trite sayings and other over-used and overtly sexual metaphors. It’s very beginning songwriter-ish, and I couldn’t help but wonder if she actually did get help from a 14-year-old daughter while writing them.

The Perfect Dress for Gal about the Globe's Changing Seasons

It’s almost autumn and major fashion magazines have already published their fall favorites. Yet we've still been searching for the Perfect Dress to weather the 100 plus temperatures; an outfit that is both comfortable and cool to wear, but is also versatile with the changing seasons, looks good with a light scarf, or even an 80s jean jacket and Risky Business sunglasses. The Perfect Dress-in places like South Texas or anywhere else affected by global climate change-is like an employee in a bad economy; it needs to have transferable skills for the “changing” climate, be ready for work, the club, a birthday party, and specifically a drought.

I met with Valerie Perez, founder of Verseau, and someone who has designed just such a dress. Verseau, a high-end women’s line with an affordable price point, featured The Perfect Dress in their Spring/Summer 2011 collection, Un Amour Delicat.

While debuting at IADT’s annual runway show “Imagine” in May, I finally had the chance to catch up with Perez and couldn’t wait to ask some very titillating questions about her line, such as “Why did you choose chiffon?” Perez, whom has brought the highlights of her collection to our meeting, excitedly explains, “I like the way it feels and hangs on the body, and when you wear it you feel really pretty and feminine; at least I do. The ultimate goal is to make a woman feel like a woman.” While that’s easier said than done, it appears that Perez has managed to meet that goal. Many of her dresses flatter the figure of a real woman as they’re fitted around the waist, breast, torso, and flare out at the bottom to compliment a woman’s most valuable assets.

One of the Un Amour Delicat dresses (pictured in slideshow above) is a low-cut flirty number made of cream chiffon. Like the other dresses in the collection, it is textured, and includes braided straps around the shoulder. “Each piece was designed with the everyday woman in mind,” Perez says, “with careful attention to how the garment falls when she moves.” Other dresses in the collection have similar themes: a backless halter with translucent magenta chiffon and stenciled designs; a dark turquoise chiffon dress with two straps across the shoulders, featuring flowered embellishments on the right shoulder, “So you don’t crush it with the seat belt,” Perez claims; and a similar dark pink dress adorned with rows of gathered chiffon, and a wide ruffle around the hem.

“I only want to create garments that are wearable with real world applications. I didn’t make them fitted below the waist because they are for real women,” Perez explains, “I also tried to make them a wearable length so you’re not afraid to sit down or move in the wrong direction.”

The navy blue chiffon dress—one of my top picks—is simple, but features a large bow to compliment a plunging neckline, and is also finished with a wide ruffle around the hem. “It’s a really flirty dresses,” says Perez. Her dresses are certainly sexy, however, she also has more conservative numbers, like her longer black dress with white, blue, and gray splashes, ruffles around the neck and sleeves, with a modest neckline.

About the Designer: Valerie Perez’s runway shows include The Saint, Queens of Fashion-Model, Mia Robertz performed to Como La Flor by Selena; Threads for Hope Fashion Show, benefitting the San Antonio Aids Foundation; San Antonio Living Show—Celebrando Estilo, La Villita Assembly Hall (IADT); The Beauty of Giving Back Founder’s Day Event presented by Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated – Sonterra Country Club; Great Day SA – SA Youth Summit (IADT); Great Day SA – Imagine, benefiting Eva’s Heroes and Career Education Scholarship Fund (IADT); Fiesta Fierce Fashion Parade (with Cassandra Lazenby).

Countdown to New York City Fashion Week: 13 Days

Angelina Mata Atelier Headed to New York City Fashion Week

When I walked into Angelina Mata’s River North abode, I was immediately transported onto a set like The Devil Wears Prada; if say, the film was strictly about a talented artist preparing for fashion week in New York City next month. My eyes were quickly drawn to white strings of leftover fabric adorning the gray carpet of the Atelier — French for artist’s workshops — but then moved to other excitement in the room. On the two long and wide white tables sat sketch books, small wooden mannequins, an array of colorful fabric waiting to be drawn on, cut, and stitched, as well as tape measures, notes, and quite a bit of ambition.

“Why clothes?” I asked Mata, who’s known in the community for her South Town hair salon and high-end boutique Euphorium. “Because that’s what I always wanted to do,” she began. “Hair was my default, because I come from a family of hairstylists. But I went to school with the intention of becoming a designer.” And I cannot imagine Mata doing anything else; she claims that she just woke up, but is already wearing a silken blue dress with gold buttons and pointy red velvet shoes with gold trim. Fashion is obviously who she is.

Mata worked for the founder of the Horst Institute (now the Aveda Institute), Horst Reckelbacher. Afterward, she attended the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), taking classes in draping, pattern making, and design. In addition, Mata chaired South Town’s “Art of Fashion” show for seven years. However, she has gained success with her Bespoke design, the art of custom-made clothing, which will be reflected in the launch of her Spring 2012 collection of Angelina Mata Atelier next month during New York City Fashion Week. She is currently working with fiber artist Laura Beehler, and metal artist Jose Chapa — one can only guess what her show will look like.

Past inspirations include the Twenties and Belle Époque eras, but she is keeping next month’s show confidential. “I know you can’t unveil your fashion week line,” I begin, “but can you at least give us a hint or secret about what to expect?” Mata hesitates, but replies, “Hints or secrets? This is a re-birth onto a new platform so there is a vital glow about the collection.”

With that, I take my hint that it is time to leave and let Mata get back to work. But I hope to catch her again, at her show in New York City. She is currently seeking contributions for the event, via Kickstarter. Contribute as little as $20 and get your name on the guest list for the show in New York City and a CD of the show soundtrack. $50 gets your name, plus one, on the guest list for the San Antonio screening of next month’s New York City show. Larger contribution giveaways include shoes, dresses from the collection, and more.

Rome Today: Heroic Nudity

Rome Today

I recently read an article by travel writer Rick Steves discussing how American travelers often find themselves in a state of shock when they visit Europe and are exposed to European nudity in public. I couldn’t help but laugh since I was one of those Americans when I first visited Italy in 2004. I felt uncomfortable with such uninhibited behavior. My husband, who is from Italy, reassured me that it was normal and acceptable to go topless at the beach. Unfortunately, his words did little to get me to bare it all. Instead, I couldn’t help but secretly stare and wonder why or how so many people could feel comfortable in their birthdays suits (or at least half of them) in public. As I observed, I witnessed every body type: from my own in-laws sporting a bikini and Speedo at the age of 70, to little girls running around with only bottoms on, to little boys in the nude, to grown men in fitted boxers, underwear or the tiniest of shorts, to cellulite-free bodies, well-tanned biceps, stretch marks, no-tan-line silhouettes and everything in between. Not to mention, there were pregnant women on the verge of delivery staying cool in two-piece suits with no hesitation or discomfort enjoying the sun. Their self-confidence reminded me of Demi Moore when she made headlines for posing nude on the cover of Vanity Fair when she was seven months pregnant.

As the summer passed, I tried to muster up the courage to do the same, but couldn’t. I didn’t feel comfortable enough showcasing my breasts in mid-air or for any other man to enjoy the sight publicly. So I proceeded with caution until I started to learn more about Italian culture. I spent countless afternoons at local museums trying to immerse myself in Italian art and culture, and I started noticing one common theme: Exposed bodies everywhere…featured in art, statues and paintings. This sparked my interest in learning more about ancient Greek and Roman art, when heroic nudity was openly accepted. It was a time when the athletic body or human body was admired, when gladiators were cheered on for their Olympic-sized bodies and strength, when curves were the norm instead of the exception. Full-figured women were glorified for their childbearing abilities and all networking occurred in open bathhouses, with a towel-wrapped around waists, instead of behind the keyboard on Facebook. I realized the focus back then was accepting one’s body regardless of size, shape or ability. Embracing one’s own sexuality was part of the human experience until shame and embarrassment was introduced by religion, with the famous “fig leaf” covering up Adam and Eve. Once I reached this conclusion, I decided I would allow the spirit of Venus and the statue David to live on and abandon my overly prudish behavior abroad and embrace my body for all its curves and imperfections.

Check out more of Araceli's photos featuring "Heroic Nudity,” or some of her other stories and productions, by logging on to Rome Today's facebook page.

Check out ChickRocks Handmade Jewelry and Stationery

When Marianna Urutia graduated from her Master’s program in architecture at the University of Houston, the recession had already begun. Undeterred, the native San Antonian found a way to use her skills and passion. “I took it as a clue to experiment and explore,” Urutia explains, “I’d already been very crafty and part of being in interior design and architecture was about being very elegant.” Today Urutia is the creator of her own line of handmade items called ChickRocks. Her most popular items for sale are the jewelry and paper goods, which are each uniquely designed by Urutia herself.

“My physical models in grad school were always well crafted, and as a teen I enjoyed making friendship bracelets,” says Urutia, “but I wanted to explore and be more modern.” Characteristic to ChickRocks accessories are the modern combination of colors and textures. While Urutia tends to stick to the same color palates, her items are still one of a kind. The two-inch bobby pins pictured here, for example, are made with orange and yellow polka dots against a white background. But they are also made with silver tone and vintage Lucite, which gives the jewelry a clean and elegant look. For Urutia, it’s not just about the “less is more” factor, but also “quality over quantity.”

Similarly, a pair of ChickRock earrings is made in 14 karat gold filling with turquoise and yellow stones, and red jade briolettes, while the necklaces in the flower series are also made with 14 karat gold filling and pink faceted glass stones. However, ChickRocks uses other, more creative metals, “I also like to oxidize some of the silver pieces to make them black, like for the Bell necklace,” explains Urutia. Her love for crafts—and experimenting—has even inspired her to take metal smiting classes at the Southwest School of Arts and Crafts. “It’s very different than my handmade jewelry,” she insists, “because it involves fire chemicals and a torch, and takes much more time to master.”

J’adore ChickRocks jewelry, but I also love their paper goods. And who doesn’t need a cute, little spare notebook to throw in the purse every morning—or some extra greeting cards for a forgotten birthday party? The journals are made from scratch, and the most in-demand greeting cards can be attributed to ChickRocks’ signature wiggly one-eyed monster, reminiscent of “Where the Wild Things Are.” The square glassine envelopes containing the greeting cards won me over, as its translucency makes it perfect for the monster to sneak up on its recipients.

Check out ChickRocks for yourself. Their price point is one of the best I’ve seen in a very long time, and just as this story began with a recession; it must end with explaining that ChickRocks prices are perfect for one. The mini cards start at one dollar, with the rest of the paper goods no more than eight dollars. The jewelry, such as the bobby pins, start at four to five dollars. Items can be purchased through the online shop at Chickrocks.com, Etsy, or at the D.I.Y. Factory on San Pedro Avenue, as well as Pulquerios on South Alamo.

Brides Against Breast Cancer Tour of Gowns Stopping in Texas

Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to granting wishes and memory-making events for men and women battling stage IV breast cancer, has kicked off its 2011 Brides Against Breast Cancer™ Nationwide Tour of Gowns. The event will be stopping in San Antonio on Saturday, July 16 – Sunday, July 17 at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio. Local brides-to-be will have the opportunity to find their dream gowns at incredible savings while making wishes come true for metastatic breast cancer patients.

The charity wedding gown sale will feature hundreds of beautiful wedding gowns donated by famous designers, retailers, manufacturers and individuals starting at just $199 and up, including hundreds of brand name and designer gowns, some valued up to $8,000! Tiaras, veils, crinolines and other accessories will also be offered. Making Memories is currently accepting wedding gown donations for gowns 2006 and newer. The gowns need to be shipped to the warehouse in Oregon. Visit Brides Against Cancer for instructions on how to donate gowns.

In addition, while the Nationwide Tour of Gowns is in town, Making Memories will be searching for deserving residents in the area with stage IV breast cancer who would like their dreams fulfilled. Deserving individuals will want to logon to Making Memories to secure a wish packet.

WHERE: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
WHEN: Power Hour Preview Shopping Spree – $10 Admission per Attendee

Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m. – Noon

General Sale – Free Admission

Saturday, July 16 from Noon – 6 p.m.

Sunday, July 17 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Creepy Miami, 2011

When we arrived in Miami, we learned that the Dallas Mavericks were staying at our hotel for the NBA championships against the Miami Heat. We ran into a number of players and employees working for the Mavericks franchise. Low and behold, my girlfriends and I were invited to the over-hyped club Liv, which is located in the infamous Fontainebleau Hotel. Conveniently on Miami Beach, it's often featured on travel shows and hotel guides.

What nobody tells you about Miami (oh and other places as well, for sure), is that there’s some pretty sketchy, crazy looking people there. And I’m not talking about the half-naked drunken folks on the beach. I suppose the more diplomatic way of expressing this sentiment is, “there’s a variety of cultures and influences making their mark on the sunshine city.” However, this is not a diplomatic story running in the New York Times. This is one of the first REAL reviews of the Club Liv and the Fontainebleau Hotel—after hours.

When my girlfriends and I stepped out of the cab, I became frightened by the monsters standing out front and thought, “thank God there are so many exits and revolving doors to make our grand escape.” I couldn’t tell a boy from a girl, a hooker from a cab driver, and without tattoos covering my body or body piercings all over my face, I stuck out like a sore thumb. In fact, here's a picture with my girlfriends while at Liv. They apparently got the slut bitch memo but I was clearly their teacher chaperoning at the party. Oh, but the night gets so much better than that.

We were invited to Liv by an infamous basketball player’s money manager—whatever that means, because the guy slipped Megs a $100 bill for our cab ride back to the hotel, which did not cost $100 (we put it toward our dinner the following night—sucker). When we finally walked into the club, there were definitely an array of other scary creatures inside, but most of them were in our “VIP” area. Newsflash to people who think they’re VIP: if everybody is invited to the VIP area, then it’s really not VIP, regardless of a little stanchion segregating the LARGE VIP area. Soon, we were tipped that LeBron James’s dad was partying with us as well. Thank god one of my girlfriends is a television producer and was able to quickly call bullshit on that one, because I had no idea who any of these “famous” people were. Including the Kim Kardashian look-alike who came complete with her own butt-pads in place of a real butt implant (see picture below). To make this super fun evening even better, the worse house music I’ve ever heard in my life continuously played, and the D.J. quickly switched from song to song like a six-year-old boy with A.D.D. Just when I heard a tune I somewhat adored, the song changed. It was probably for the best as my feet stuck to the unlevel ground every time I tried to dance, because the floor apparently hadn’t been cleaned since Michael Jackson was alive.

After debating, no agreeing, about how much Liv nightclub sucked, we eventually made our way out of the club. But not before walking through the cheesy Fontainebleau Hotel’s high-end lobby area. A large and gaudy chandelier hung from above, as did some cheap—my bad, I meant chic—blue lounge lighting. At first, I thought I was at a Quinceanera, or that someone would jump out from behind one of the couches and try to sell me barbecue plates for $5. My girlfriends however, made me go to the bathroom with them for shelter, which was probably one of the nicer areas in the place. I assume this is because the people at Liv were clearly using the dance floor instead of the commode.

Thankfully, we made it safely back to the hotel, in one piece. I could tell that I wasn’t the only one thinking, “but they always make it look so nice on TV.” We were devastated to learn that Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks, dropped six figures partying at Liv when his team won the championships. But we were really happy to know that at least everybody had a really good time and got to feel real important in his all-inclusive VIP area.

Teaching Your Kiddos Spanish? Check Out Baby Besos

Many of our parents and grandparents were taught as Hispanics growing up in South Texas, “If you want to prosper in the U.S., do not speak Spanish, do not teach your children Spanish.” Fortunately, times they have a-changed; parents can and should teach their children more about their culture. I met with mother-of-two and owner of Baby Besos, Victoria Herrera, who built a business that teaches other children and her own about being Latino with fashion and other child-friendly tools.

“After I had my second child, I realized I wanted my children to love and understand Spanish the way I love it,” explains Herrera. “I tried to find tools around the house to expose them to Spanish, but I couldn’t find anything. So I decided to start a business and found things from all over the country.” Herrera found books, CDs, toys, blocks, accessories and more. Inspired, she started making her own burp cloths, bibs, blankets, and clothes. “I brought items from all over, but I ended up starting our own line of blankets and bibs.”

As we met, Herrera began emptying the contents of her bag, first pulling out a blanket made with the traditional, bright floral hand-embroidered Mexican dress. “This is a dress that my grandmother would’ve worn. Now that I have a daughter I want to pass on a tradition of that dress. But I created the blanket with a modern twist to it.” While the pink Mexican dress adorns the middle of the blanket, it’s made up of several bold fabrics and materials like purple mink with raised polka dots and colorful cotton flowers. “Raised dots are good for a child’s motor skills,” says Herrera. “It’s good for them to feel different textures. But I also make other mainstream blankets that are still a little bit bolder than your normal baby blankets.” Herrera unfolded a two-sided blanket with cute zebra print and soft mink on one side, and turquoise and black flowers on the other. Perhaps it does not include the Latino flare of the blanket made with the Mexican dress, but it is still loud and proud; it is still Latino.

And it’s probably the Latino influence in her garments and accessories that captures people’s attention and won Baby Besos a business award from the South Texas Women’s Center. Herrera pulls out more contents from a bag she also sells, and low and behold, a bib with a giant Virgin Mary on one side and the color red on another, emerges. We are meeting in the Starbucks in a more—how do I be diplomatic about saying this?—less Latino side of town. The conservative Texan in me had to joke, while looking over my shoulder, “Well perhaps you can use the red side when you have more conservative guests coming over, and the Virgin Mary side amongst Latinos.”

Herrera even sells dyed cloth diapers with embellishments, a pink shirt that says, “You’re giving me Ojo,” and a boy’s onesie with the words, “No Hablo” written on an etch-a-sketch. She also sells an array of baby blankets and other clothes with images from the famous Mexican game Loteria, like “El Apache” or “La Luna.” In addition, Baby Besos is growing. They’ve just partnered with Carrizo Project, a company that heads to Honduras to teach women how to sew and be self sufficient. “They are literally in the mountains of Honduras sewing!” Herrera excitedly explains. “And they teach the women confidence. I started selling their bags, and 100 percent of the proceeds are sent back to Carrizo Project in Honduras.” Herrera sells them as diaper and baby wipe holders. “But you can use them for other things like spoons and baby food,” she adds.

To see more Latino-centric items or to go shopping, logon to BabyBesos.com. They have everything from $5 onesies to $90 blankets with their average price running from $15-$25 an item.

Austin: Day Trip to Dress Shop

Dress Shop is no longer one of Austin’s best kept secrets. Tourists from local hotels were stopping by during my visit to check out the infamous store owned by the, “Dress Evangelist,” Leslie Gandy. “We carry dresses that are both ‘of the moment’ but will last for a long time,” explains Gandy, “we do have our fair share of college and even high school customers-but the dresses appeal to the many professional women who work near us, as well as tourists of all ages looking for a fun purchase on their visit to Austin.”

Opened in August 2009, Dress Shop remains the first women’s retailer on Congress Avenue in over a decade. And what better way to announce that a woman can join the ranks of men, than by opening a women’s boutique in a historically male-dominated business area? As if Gandy’s message isn’t clear enough, her dresses are literally the perfect fit, as they’re designed for a real woman and not for the double-zero-diva modernistas have become obsessed with hating. According to Gandy, “we really advocate looking good. The hour glass dress is flattering and fits really well. Our dresses are made of many different [and forgiving] materials, like knit and stretch. We also carry an array of styles and designers, such as Yoana Baraschi, Bon Bon by Micah, Suzie Chin, and Maggie London.”

Dress Shop’s price point ranges from affordable to expensive, as there’s a look for every occasion: casual, cocktail, sundress, work dress, etc. In addition to carrying dresses, they sell all the pretty little things and accessories that accompany them. Necessities for, “no more wardrobe malfunctions,” as Gandy likes to call it, includes original Hollywood fashion tape, disposable nipple covers, silicone nipple covers, deodorant removing sponges, plunge back bras, and more. However they carry more fun necessities and accessories such as, sequin encrusted handbags and jewelry galore, like sparkly bracelets, peacock feather necklaces, gold and silver earrings.

The clutch bags are my must-haves, as I found myself jealous and fantasizing about them within moments of leaving the shop. I’m also still pining away for the timeless polka dot sensations and the Audrey Hepburn-inspired dresses. Today I’m considering re-modeling my closet area—or even the rest of my house—to look like the interior of Dress Shop itself. The shop’s vintage aesthetic with colorful splashes of black and white, baby pink, and exposed brick, features an original Durham Tobacco ad from 1896.

About the owner: A Texas A&M alum, Gandy left her home state to live in New York City, where she honed her sense of fashion. She worked for Us Weekly Magazine, focusing on celebrities and style, and became the marketing manager for Macy’s. She met her Longhorn husband in the big apple, who convinced her to move back to the lone star state and share her knowledge and passion for fashion with the rest of us. Her mother owned a similar shop in the 80s in Texas City. For more on Dress Shop, visit their site, facebook account, or stop by IRL.

Caroline Kennedy's Five-City Book Launch Tour

Caroline Kennedy came to San Antonio for a five-city launch tour promoting her new poetry anthology, She Walks in Beauty, A Woman’s Journey Through Poems. Titled after Lord Byron’s famous poem, the anthology includes works from other greats of English literature, such as Edna St. Vincent Millay, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Amy Lowell and more. However, proudly featured alongside those greats are selections from the Alamo City’s own greats: Barbara Ras, Naomi Shihab Nye, Sandra Cisneros, and Rosemary Catacalos.

I had the humbling opportunity to attend Kennedy’s San Antonio tour, and appreciated not only reading stories from local women writers, but that San Antonio was representin’ with the likes of Caroline Kennedy. I fought the urge to raise my hand and announce that I too, am part of the local women writers scene. Who knows, maybe Kennedy’s next edition will include an installment, of my notorious “Chick-Lit.” Until then, I enjoyed reading the work of my predecessors and hopefully you will too. The idea for the anthology came to Kennedy on her 50th birthday, when friends sent her poems to commemorate the occasion. Inspired to celebrate the stages of a woman’s life, Kennedy divided the anthology into several sections, from Falling in Love, to Marriage, Work and Motherhood.

Barbara Ras’ Secret Lives describes a risqué journey mothers may embark on together. These mothers “that smear peanut butter on bread” are the ones who are “talking about their bodies and what they did with them in Portugal, Hawaii, the coast of France, it’s better than cards, it’s anatomy and geography…” A personal favorite, Naomi Shihab Nye’s My Friend’s Divorce is a rhythmic story about her friend’s garden, representing a fresh start. In Little Clown, My Heart, Sandra Cisneros captures the emotional tantrums that come with romantic love through the youthful voice the author is famous for (“Spangled again and lopsided, Handstands and Peking pirouettes”). And Rosemary Catacalos’ Crocheted Bag, featured in the chapter on “Beauty, Clothes, and Things of This World,” reminded me of Gertrude Stein’s high modernism.

However, perhaps the dearest passage of the entire anthology wasn’t a poem, but a few sentences written by Kennedy herself: “Collecting these poems reminded me that when I was younger, I thought my task was to forge ahead and succeed as an individual. But growing older has helped me realize that our success lies in our relationships—with the family we are born into, the friends we make, the people we fall in love with, and the children we have.”

Caroline Kennedy has written and edited seven books on constitutional law, American history, politics, and poetry. None have included contributions from local writer and Gal about the Globe, Desiree Prieto, but I’m sure her next one will.

A Visit with International Fashion Line, ‘Niche,’ Created in San Antonio, Texas

Turkish-born designer, Nilgun Derman, and her daughter, Ayse Derman, are the proud owners of Niche, a modern women’s clothing line carried in high-end boutiques and departments stores throughout the U.S. and Canada. In 500-800 stores at any given time, and in almost every state in the U.S., Niche happens to be headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, in an industrial area near the airport, or what I like to call, “Little Industry,” as it’s full of discreet warehouses and studios. However, Niche’s success is anything but little, and you can find the line at Dillard’s La Cantera— in the bridge section with Eileen Fisher—or at Julian Gold on McCullough.

Over 25 years ago, Nilgun Derman began the company with an art-to-wear line of hand-painted garments—influenced from her other passion. She holds a master’s degree in industrial design, and originally made furniture, which she believes inspired her to move toward clothing. “The concept of furniture and industrial design resonates in the work because our pieces are structural and architectural,” Nilgun explains. “But they are comfortable and yet elegant.” Nilgun began designing painted clothing because of its popularity in the late 80s and early 90s, but eventually the clothing evolved into a more ready-to-wear line. The feminine collections, aimed at the 30-and-up demographic, includes wearable separates, casual but sleek and fitted-jerseys, knits, cotton and plaid.

While the line is created in San Antonio, it’s primarily produced in central Texas, and Niche is proud to have kept it completely “Made in the U.S.” According to Ayse Derman, the company’s Creative Director and a University of Texas at Austin Business Alum, creating the clothing close to home has also helped Niche carve out their own niche in such a competitive market. “A decade ago it seemed very enticing to take production overseas. A lot of companies did it, like Ralph Lauren, and even the boutique brands moved overseas because the production costs so much less.” Ayse continues, “but we were stubborn and kept it here, and now there a lot of problems with overseas production. We can flip over something in three weeks, whereas overseas production cannot be flexible with deliveries and that’s where clothing companies can experience problems.”

Niche can join the “Fashion for a Cause” crowd, as managing their production close to home means they don’t overproduce. Ayse explains that they don’t make anything until receiving orders, and believe it or not, it’s easier that way. “We don’t have to project,” Ayse says, “we do our production based on the response. We don’t end up with extra inventory or clothing.” Ayse ensures that a percentage of the line is brand new and innovative, and a percentage of the line is tweaked. “We have history on the women’s body, as we have a little core group of clothes that have stayed the same for ten years. Soft separate groups, styles that consistently are best sellers.” The company also fulfills special custom orders, for weddings and other occasions.

Niche produces a couple fashion shows a year for the fall and spring break, which includes 110 bodies, styles, and two smaller breaks, one for holiday and one for resort, like early spring, which features crews. In addition, they attend the big tradeshows in the U.S. I had a chance to check out the Fall 2011 line and adore their black and white jersey dresses and scarves, as well as their brown striped separates, as brown is making a comeback in fashion. If you really want to know more about them, go shopping. As Ayse explains, “the pieces will tell you the whole story.”

Sidenote: While Niche’s studio is closed to the public and their line can only be found in select boutiques and department stores, their involvement in the community is immense: they mentor UIW interns, have hired UIW graduates, and also make fabric donations to the International Academy of Design and Technology.

From Austin To the World: Ashley Hansen takes A. Renee Jewelry from “Drag” to Riches

Ashley Renee Hansen, designer and owner of A. Renee Jewelry, began featuring her first sets of earrings and necklaces on “The Drag,” in Austin, Texas. Now her dreams have taken her from the drag to designing custom-made lines for weddings and special occasions. “I have a client who wants pearls, pearls, pearls, for her October wedding,” Hansen explains, “Gray pearls, white pearls, pink pearls, pearls of all sizes! And she said to me, ‘we were so excited- we wanted to design the jewelry first, then design the girl and dresses based around the jewelry.’”



Hansen’s story is such an inspiration, not only because she went from The Drag to managing a jewelry line for a “custom-made” client base, but because believe it or not, she has a day job too. A Registered Client Associate at the brokerage firm, RiverStone Wealth Management, Hansen balances both passions. “I’m basically the client’s administrator; I assist the Financial Advisor’s with planning strategies and execute trades, but now with my promotion I’ll be doing more regulating. I’m hoping to lighten that position,” Hansen laughs. When asked how her jewelry comes to play in such a serious job she explains that her office is full of guys and those guys have wives, moms and daughters. “I try not to talk about it too much, but, you know, they celebrate Valentine’s Day, birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions.

However, Hansen’s style is perfect for both special occasions and every day events, because her jewelry is clean and classic, which she refers to as, “organic.” In addition, it’s light weight, earthy and calming. “It feels like you’re not wearing anything at all, and yet it’s so complimentary to the female body, and makes you feel very sexy and empowering,” Hansen declares. Depending on the piece, her jewelry may include gemstones, a bit of Swarovski, and are either gold-filled, gold-plated, or a unique copper. The splashes of colorful tones like blue, green, pink, as well as Native American Red and Indian Paint Brush, give off a very earthy vibe. Similarly, Hansen claims that many of the stones she works with have calming and healing agents that ward off negative energy like anxiety and depression, and instead encourage positive energy, like compassion and strength. “People have told me that they feel my energy when they wear the jewelry, which is funny because I get excited and pumped up when I’m making it,” Hansen explains, while adding, “My favorite gemstone is the Opal because it promotes feelings of love, passion and spontaneity. It’s also said to aid in visualization, imagination, and dreams- all of which have been huge components in getting me where I am today.”

Also previously featured on the famous site, “365 Things to Do in Austin,” A. Renee Jewelry hosts jewelry parties throughout the Austin area. Hansen’s upcoming events include a jewelry party at Simplicity Wine Bar and Bella on Sixth Street. She also hosts parties at clients’ houses and can host your party as well. If you’re in the Austin area, you can check out her jewelry display at James Allen: The Salon. The very affordable price point runs between $25- $75. You can also visit A. Renee Jewelry online and make a purchase through her website via the safe third-party partner, PayPal.

Fiesta in South Texas: Fashion Victims and Their Flair

Too much Fiesta flair can get one arrested, make others intoxicated, and get a certain Fashionation writer in trouble, as it invites too much inspiration for criticism. After attending a few Fiesta events this year, I’ve amended the slogan from, Viva Fiesta! to Muerte Fiesta!, as I wouldn’t want to be caught dead in some of the Fiesta outfits I saw, and hope that next year you aren’t either. In response to my new slogan, I’ve been asked the following question: “Just how much flair is too much flair?” A good rule of thumb: If ever in doubt, take something off.

For example, consider the culprit, pictured in her mug shot above. A committed Fiesta fanatic, she wore black and rainbow-colored cowboy boots to flatter a white, fiesta-embroidered house dress. Typically, a colorful flower—a-la-Carrie Bradshaw—adds a punch of flavor to any outfit, however this flowered creation ensures a swift punch in the face instead.

To compliment—or contrast—her off-the-shoulder flowers, the culprit accessorized with a little more Fiesta flair around the wrists. However, it is her hat that really ties the costume together and is worth mentioning as it is an example that more really is more. In my opinion, it even deserves an award—or perhaps a few more of those prestigious Fiesta medals. Tangled in cascarone eggs, confetti, streamers, and I think I saw a blinking night-light somewhere in there, stood a giant Toucan-Sam look-a-like. Whether or not the bird found the exit in time to make his grand escape is uncertain, however it is possible that he laid more eggs while up there. Where is PETA when you need them? Of course, such a costume would not be complete without a large, sky-blue sequin purse, possibly stolen from an 11-year-old daughter or Claire’s Boutique. Because if there is anything else this Fiesta fanatic still needs, it’s definitely reflective sparkly gear so similar comrades can find her.

If you have any other great pictures commemorating my new Fiesta Slogan, Muerte Fiesta! Please forward along to fashionation@sacurrent.com. I’m already looking forward to next year’s flair!

San Antonio, Texas: International Academy of Design and Technology to host runway show with Project Runway’s Shirin Askari

This Thursday March 31, 2011 from 6:30 p.m – 9:30 p.m., the International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT) presents, “Imagine.” An annual fashion runway event, featuring ten of IADT’s graduating fashion design and merchandising students, this year Shirin Askari of Project Runway Season Six will host. Tickets are $20 and VIP tickets are $35 and can be purchased here or by calling IADT at 210-530-9449. Doors open at 6 p.m. for photo opportunities and interviews.

Art fans will want to arrive by 6:30 p.m., as the evening begins with, “The Ten Show,” the graphic design and art exhibit from IADT’s graduating graphic design students. Sponsors of the evening include Dillard’s North Star, Top Knotch Officials, Lari Nelson Fashion Group, Circle of Influence, Sam Paniagua, Jonathan Moreno and Makeup Team, Bare Escentuals, Melendrez Entertainment, Banned Entertainment, Bisli Event Services, Gialex Cosmetics, Normas Creations, Sociallite Marketing, and David Constante. Show proceeds benefit Eva’s Heroes and Career Education Scholarship Fund (CESF).

With more than 30 years as an established institution, the International Academy of Design and Technology offers students a hands-on education with experienced faculty dedicated to providing students with the necessary skills, knowledge, support and guidance to pursue fulfilling career opportunities in the design and technology fields. The San Antonio campus (IADT-San Antonio), which opened in 2007, offers degree programs in graphic design, fashion design and merchandising, merchandising management and advertising design. Students also have the opportunity to take a portion of their coursework online through IADT-Online. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). ACICS is a national accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education. IADT-San Antonio does not guarantee employment or salary and is part of Career Education Corporation network of schools (NASDAQ: CECO). For more information, visit the IADT San Antonio website or call (210) 530-9449.

South By Southwest's Style By Global Theme: Fashion For a Cause

I’m left with many impressions of SXSW’s first ever fashion component, Style X. However, among those impressions I’m referred back to a comment I made in an earlier Fashionation blog: “Fashion is not just a passion; it is a lifestyle that tells a story about ourselves, from something as ubiquitous as what kind of coffee we drink, to something as controversial as what kind of politics we practice.” While at Style X, I learned that many brands and designers are doing just that with their clothes today—getting political and striking up a conversation about it. I ran into a few fashion companies that are not only donating a portion of their success to their chosen non-profit but who have—surprisingly and profitably—built a fashion line for the sole purpose of supporting their cause.

Blake Mycoskie, the founder of Toms Shoes who also happened to speak at SXSW this year, is a successful and famous example of fashion for a cause. A native Texan, Mycoskie went on a trip to Argentina a few years ago, and, shocked to find children without shoes on their feet, returned to the states to create Toms Shoes, a for-profit footwear company which designs the traditional Argentinean shoe, the Alpargata. Each time an American buys a pair of Toms Shoes, a pair is sent to a child somewhere around the world, preventing diseases that over a billion people in the world suffer from as a result of not wearing shoes on their feet.



Open Arms, a sustainable for-profit company featured at SXSW’s Style X, maintains that they’re, “a company with a conscience,” as they enable a better life for refugee women by providing them with jobs that pay livable wages. Open Arms engages the community by asking for donations in the form of old t-shirts, which they recycle to create one-of-a-kind clothing products. The company not only accepts recycled clothing, but volunteers as well.



Krochet Kids International, “Buy a hat, change a life,” teaches developing countries how to crochet to break the cycle of poverty. The non-profit company, while only three years old now, was created by three guys from Spokane, Washington who were even featured in their local paper as the “Krochet Kids,” as their love of snowboarding inspired them to crochet and sell beanies to their high school friends. During college, the friends separated but were inspired by their travels, in particular a trip to Northern Uganda, in which one of the friends learned that the Ugandan people rely heavily on their government because rebel armies had torn the northern country apart. Today, Krochet Kids International teaches the Ugandan people how to crochet so that they can pay them a wage to be independent and support their family.

Krochet Kids International Fortunately, you did not need to attend SXSW’s Style X to get involved with the mission of Toms Shoes, Open Arms, or Krochet Kids International. Next time you need to buy a pair of shoes or a beanie, or get rid of some old t-shirts, you’ll know where to look.

For more “Fashion for a Cause,” join me in San Antonio, Texas this Saturday evening March 26, from 5:30 – 7:30 at the Pearl Brewery’s Aveda Institute. Aveda San Antonio will premiere their first “Catwalk for Water,” a national, annual Aveda event that raises funds and awareness for clean water. Beneficiaries for this runway show include the Gulf Coast Restoration Network and Global Greengrants Fund.