“Life’s a beautiful thing ’cause I’ve got rhythm it makes me happy.”
-Dorothy Dandridge
Dorothy Dandridge with her sultry looks and flirtatious style, became the first African-American to earn an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in Carmen Jones . In 1955, she was featured on the cover of Life magazine, and was treated like visiting royalty at that year’s Cannes Film Festival. Proof positive that persistence, perseverance and patience are the way to go! Dorothy paved the way for people everywhere — women, men and anyone who expresses an individualistic flair.
In 1999, Halle Berry played Dandridge in “Introducing Dorothy Dandridge,” for which she won an Emmy Award.
Hi, everyone! I always like to share the fact that I come from a journalistic background. My brother is an accomplished book author. For example, my father was the staffer and researcher for New York Times Pulitzer Prize winning columnist William L. Safire and has been the PR man for former Presidents such as Gerald R. Ford. I sometimes feel as if I have to defend my interests in fashion for fear of being stamped “superficial” or vapid, because much to the contrary I have a deep side (just like most of us do in life).
I just had to share this you-tube that’s taking over the air-waves, entitled (ahem) “Sh*t Fashion Girls Say – the parody.” It’s ok to laugh, because I sure did! Here’s to a powerful and productive week!
My favorite line you ask?! “I think I’m ready for bangs.”
“If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.”
- Katherine Hepburn
An uplifting quote from an American movie icon who stylishly wore slacks and set the stage for a new trend. A statement that both men and women can appreciate.
Hi, everyone!! With the holiday season approaching I’m most certainly looking for stand-out accessories to complete my look. One to multi-task or multi-shop (I should say) I’m also looking for the ‘perfect’ gift for my good friends! I came across this stunning picture of Christina Milian and couldn’t help but notice that fabulous necklace she’s wearing. Russian Dolls by Svetlana is a stylish, chic and unique jewelry line that is taking the fashion scene and celebrity scene by storm! There’s something for everyone as Svetlana has priced the line, so there’s pieces that many can enjoy! I especially like the idea of this necklace as something that can be passed from a mother to daughter, a special gift for a best friend or a caring gift from that special guy in your life (men are you taking notes here)? Exclusive, handcrafted and truly beautiful — words can’t begin to describe how stunning this collection is in person! Alex McCord of ‘The Real Housewives of New York’ is yet another popular face who was spotted wearing this enchanting jewelry as featured in Star magazine! Each piece of jewelry shines like a special little Russian Doll!
From the chic streets of NYC, dazzling red-carpet events with Stephanie Pratt and uber-stylist Derek Warburton, amongst the glittering lights of Paris & the sandy shores of California – CornNut can be found featuring the latest and greatest in doggie fashions from superb pet-fashion line — NuttButt Bakery!
Hi, everyone!! How does that saying go — “the more people I meet, the more I like my dog.” As you may well know, this world we live in can be an unpredictable place and for those of you who have a pet or have ever had a pet, you know that nothing beats the loyal, unconditional love of this special kind of caring friend! I heard about this ultra-cool new pet website and wanted to share it with all of the DailyFashionista.com readers!! At NuttButt Bakery they create small dog apparel and household items that are comfortable & stylish. Dogs give us nothing but unconditional love and happiness. The company’s mission is to pay them back in this small way!
The ultra-cool aspect to this site is not only the outstanding merchandise selection, but also in regards to the mascot of the site which is the most adorable French Bulldog, named CornNut! This inter-active shopping website is easy-to-use and creatively designed. CornNut who guides you through this retail experience is a playful dog, who loves treats, napping and traveling around in the arms of anyone that wants to carry him! Hey, CornNut – this fashionista wants to carry you wherever your little heart desires! Jokes aside, I really adore this fabulous one-stop pup boutique, which makes shopping online so easy and fun!!
Like I said before, it’s the merchandise selection offered at a fair price, paired with the adorable CornNut logo on the tag, which truly drew me in! The selection of merchandise includes colorful tee’s for around $15, cozy-colorful cable-knit sweaters for about $30, fall-winter ready plaid jackets for $15 (see CornNut featured below) and an array of warm, vibrant and oh, so paw-fect blankets — this pet-site du jour, clearly has it all! Stop by to see CornNut online and tell him that your favorite fashionista sent you!
CornNut at theNuttButt Photo Shoot. This is a high-fashion serious look! Stop by the NuttButt facebook page where owners can post an adorable picture of their loving-pet sporting the latest in NuttButt wares!! Strike a pose and stop on by!
Having attended many New York City fashion shows, I have to say that Fashion & Beauty Week certainly showcases that New Jersey also is a place where style truly thrives! Fashion & Beauty Week which is founded by beauty genius Jack Panico went-off without a hitch held at the picturesque Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange, NJ — as top designers showed their wares to the public and celebrities alike. The roster of featured talent was quite impressive including; Esposito, Ari, Bound & Tide, Devon Thomas, Jay Godfrey, Jensen Martin, Marisa Kenson, Monique Lhuillier, Pamela Dennis, Sandra Baquero and Teresa Rosati.
The crowd comprised of fashionistas, media, celebrities such as Joe Piscopo, Melissa Gorga of RHONJ, Jonathan Cheban of E! - The Spin Crowd, and Joumana Kidd among others filled the gorgeous space in anticipation for this exciting evening to begin! Center stage was lit as the Esposito Spring/Summer 2012 Collection commenced as two gorgeous brunette bombshells were strutting the runway to “You Give Me Fever” by the legendary Elvis Presley. The female models were styled with the Esposito Collection shirts paired over lacy lingerie and it most certainly grabbed everyones attention! The key to this line is that it’s a menswear line that is so strong — that even a woman can wear her man’s button down on occasion! Next up, masculine male models walked the runway in Esposito pieces that comprised of sleek button down shirts with signature red accent at collar and cuffs, old-school inspired smoking jackets/blazers, shirts accented with red, zippers and texture. The overall vibe of the show, was much like the designer Amanda Esposito, herself- alluring, powerful and ever-so-stylish! Joining Ms. Esposito was her graphic designer – Gina Capozza who had a hand in many of the intricate details of the show. The looks of the night and of this show inspired me to let out my inner sex siren as her female models exuded a sultry smolder with loose waved hair and a sexy red-pout. At the Esposito Fashion & Beauty Week Spring/Summer 2012 Collection finale, the designer took a bow with the models standing proudly in her latest men’s collection! We’ll be looking out for new developments regarding this line, including an innovative online boutique Esposito will be launching soon! Inspired by a time, when men knew ‘how to dress’ — I loved the concept of the looks thrown with a modern twist. I could easily imagine women beginning to swoon as their man arrives for a date in one of the Esposito Collection blazers!
More about Fashion & Beauty Week:
Fashion & Beauty Week – where fashion and beauty collide on the runway – is quickly becoming the most prestigious international event held in New Jersey. Not only does it include runway shows featuring top seasoned and emerging designers, but also a full cocktail dinner, wine tasting, beauty bar, silent auction, VIP/press lounge and more. Open to the public, attendees are invited to mingle with actors, fashion and beauty editors as well as notable celebrity stylists and famous personalities.
Mission Statement:
As a truly powerful and important event for the state of New Jersey, our mission is to raise money and awareness for the Diabetes Research Institute while showcasing New Jersey as it really is – a beautiful state with high-fashion people, places, and style. A 25-year veteran of the beauty industry, Jack Panico is one of the top industry leaders and consultants. Jack Panico is widely known as President and CEO of four prestigious Panico Salon and Spas located in Ridgewood, Oradell, and West Caldwell, New Jersey as well as South Beach, Florida. In addition to his role in launching this event, he was especially excited to create the long-awaited alliance between the fashion and beauty industries, as fashion has always been at the forefront of his business.
About ‘Esposito’, Mandy Esposito and Gina Capozza:
ESPOSITO is a sophisticated system of dressing. It is not just a collection; it is a lifestyle. It is an expression and extension of who you are as a person, your body, and your soul. ESPOSITO menswear collection embraces the inner essence of masculinity.
New York City designer Amanda Esposito creates designs that are bold, brash, and unique, resulting in the combination of European luxury, colorful designs, and casual sensuality. Using embroidered and jacquard fabrics with texture, her designs capture the magnificence and richness of Europe’s timeless and iconic culture. Joining forces with Esposito in 2011, is New York City graphic designer Gina Capozza, to develop the brand through her creative typography and computer generated skill. The pair work to create the next generation of menswear that will grace fashion magazines and stylish men alike, world-wide. Capozza’s work is described as “simple elegance with an edge, combining classic design with a twist of today, while tapping into her European roots.”
Growing up as a child, red, also the color of dominance, integrity, rage, and celebration, was a favorite color of Esposito’s. As a baby, she was driven to a certain iconic item her parents owned and admired: the 1974 Stingray Red Corvette. The designer spoke about that car everyday, and years later, she finally landed herself her own ‘Little Red Corvette.’ Taking the color Formula One Red and combining it with her Taurean sign, she had the perfect recipe for design and inspiration: strength, tenacity, virility, and power. The powerful color red pops up continuously throughout this collection-including under the collar and at the cuff, lining the collection with passion and attitude.
ESPOSITO’S pieces will most definitely turn heads and attract admirers. The button down shirts will take you from a day at the office to after work drinks at the hottest of night spots. The more casual line is also appealing with well-cut polo shirts in a variety of flattering colors, which would look great on the golf course or even boating. Many men ask about dressing for a date or how to keep current with their look. ESPOSITO is a fashion forward collection that consists of ultra-stylish men’s ‘Ready to Wear’ and has that certain appeal that seems to drive the women wild. The ‘signature’ of the pieces are most definitely in the flattering cut and attention to detail.
The unique aspect of Esposito Collection, beside the bold use of red as an accent, the flattering cuts, and high-end fabrics, is that this line is unique and has it’s pulse on what is the new, next, and now in fashion. ESPOSITO has been seen on-tour with Enrique Iglesias and Pit Bull, to alongside Pamela Anderson at the hottest events, and at the runways of the most coveted fashion shows. Men from Manhattan, Miami and Los Angeles agree that ESPOSITO will have them looking their best. This is ‘the premiere’ clothing line for men to be seen in.
Awards: Fashion Week 2011 Designer
Featured products: Menswear-Knit Tops, Button Down Shirts, Jeans, Pants, Blazers, Underwear.
Sveltlana Rakham: TV Personality, Jewelry Designer, Business Woman
Svetlana Rakhman, star of “Russian Dolls” on Lifetime is stepping out with an exciting new jewelry line. The line, RUSSIAN DOLLS by Svetlana officially launched in September 2011, and combines her passions for Russian history together with one-of-a-kind jewelry. RUSSIAN DOLLS by Svetlana is a modern interpretation of what most people know as the Russian nesting doll. Consisting of a trio of Russian dolls (sold separately or in a set), all handmade with a silver body, enamel face and belly. The added diamond, sapphire or birthstone jewels give the Dolls a touch of shine as well as character, adding a modern twist on a classic design. This trendy piece can be easily added to a casual outfit to add a punch of color OR if you’re feeling bold, wear the charm around your neck to offset a colorful ensemble to make a unique fashionista statement! This talented tv personality, business woman and jewelry designer will be a part of the exclusive ‘Luxury Review’, a series of media & luxury shopping experiences hosted in New York City/Beverly Hills taking place at the The Metropolitan Pavilion (home of many New York Fashion Week shows). The Luxury Review promotes brands to more than 200 media professionals, editors, journalists, photographers, television & movie product placement managers, stylists, online influencers, luxury bloggers, various celebrities and affluent consumers within a few hours!! Svetlana and her new jewelry line will be showcased during this special event on Thursday, October 13th! Celebrities and media agree — this new line of jewelry can be worn with casual day-wear to the most sizzling red carpet ensembles!
Passionate about fashion, Svetlana is inspired by some of her favorite designers including Chloe, Tom Ford, J. Mendel, Roberto Cavalli, Matthew Williamson and Sonia Rykel, just to name a few. Her personal style can be described as simple, elegant and classy – yet she can also step out and make a statement every so often–and pull it off! In her spare time she likes to relax at home spending time with her family or playing an occasional game of tennis with girlfriends. Purchase your very own RUSSIAN DOLLS by Svetlana necklace at www.buyrussiandolls.comand be sure to follow both Svetlana and her line on twitter: @SvetlanaRakhman & @RussianDollsbyS. As featured in Radar and the Examiner – this is one of the latest and hottest necklaces around! I also truly admire Svetlana because she’s one beautiful, stylish, powerful and independant woman!
About the Russion Dolls line: Svetlana Rakhman brings a new meaning to trend. Combining her passions for Russian history and jewelry, the longtime business-woman turned jewelry designer, created a modern interpretation of the Russian nesting doll, that can be worn by any generation. A Russian Dolls by Svetlana set consists of a trio of nested dolls and a matching silver chain. Wear the trio of pendants in one or separately on one chain. Each doll is handmade with a silver body and enamel face and belly. The diamond, sapphire or birthstone eyes and belly not only sparkle, but also hint at the additional treasures inside.
Accessories most definitely make any outfit and jewelry designer Jane Basch has some amazing pieces that will easily transform your look into something extra special! Her coveted hand-made jewelry line is worn by the likes of Demi Moore, Debra Messing, Ashley Tisdale, Christina Applegate andamong fashionistas coast-to-coast. I also own some of Jane Basch’s enchanting designs and I can say, I’m definitely in good company after familiarizing myself with her impressive client list! Also featured in Lucky magazine and Inside Weddings Magazine — Jane’s creations are a favorite amongst so many! Yesterday, I put together what I like to call a sleek/vintage look with a lace top, skinny black pants, peep-toe heels and finished it off with a fabulous Jane Basch Layers of Luxe necklace. The compliments came all day long!
I also wanted to share the inside scoop on a special deal she’s having on her Petite Personals! These monogram necklaces literally go with ANY outfit you can conjure up – from a weekend in jeans, evening wedding to corporate boardroom. Jane’s designs look fabulous with any look you have on! I also heard from Jane directly that she’ll be doing another give-away through the Jane Basch facebook page – get ready, ladies!! As always, there’s an empowering feeling I get every time I wear one of my initial jewelry pieces crafted by Jane.
Fashionista special: Also, Don’t forget: Petite Personals (featured, below) are 20% off. The deal will end Oct 24th so make sure you take advantage! To get this deal just use the code “people923″ at check out on JaneBasch.com!
When we are in the public-eye our face is the first thing that people notice. Keeping a vibrant, healthy complexion is something that is important because it not only makes us look great, but also helps to boost our inner-confidence. I find it rather ironic that many times when I interview note-ables in the fashion and beauty industry, a passion to make the world a better and prettier place seems to arise repetitively.
During a recent rainy day in NYC, I had the opportunity to visit the Lia Schorr Day Sparight on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. While there, I got the inside scoop on everything beautiful and powerful straight from the creative genius of this uber successful empire builder, Lia Schorr, herself. Enjoy the video that relates some additional information about this delightful place! Besides learning some very useful tips about my skin, I also was taught how to apply blush to my face using expert techniques (something I think every woman out there can relate to). A thank-you to Gina Capozza for documenting our experience.
More about Lia Schorr:
At the Lia Schorr Day Spa, a semi-private elevator whisks you up above the East Side streets to a cream-on-white reception area where the sun always seems to shine. Separate treatment areas are specially designed to provide facial and body smoothing. Beauty journalists from around the world rely on Lia Schorr for her no-nonsense advice. Not only does she have over 35 years of hands-on experience, but Lia is also an educator and author of three books, including the first-ever complete guide to men’s skin care. All the estheticians at the Spa have impeccable credentials, some with 25 years experience on the Lia Schorr staff. The lucky-for-you result: After a facial, clients leave feeling totally relaxed and rejuvenated, with skin that shows no redness or irritation. Each item in the signature line is custom-made to Lia’s exacting specifications, including her exclusive men’s skincare collection. But don’t expect a hard-sell here. The focus: on serious skincare that’s pared-down but pampering. Their goal: that you leave the Lia Schorr Day Spa feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ‘renewed.’
Learning blush application techniques at the famous Lia Schorr Beauty School!
