Category: Fashion Shows

Sustainable Fashion: “Your Are IQ” Hits the New York Runway

Designer David Demovic and Monika Lacekova, Atelier71 Founding Designer and +421 Foundation Fashion Director
Designer David Demovic and Monika Lacekova, Atelier71 Founding Designer and +421 Foundation Fashion Director.

Rising design star David Demovic has partnered with fashion powerhouse Monika Lacekova to create the You are IQ sustainable waste-to-fashion collection under the Atelier 71 brand. The innovative designs will be presented on the runway during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 40th season. The highly-anticipated fashion show will be held at 6 pm on Saturday September 14, 2024 at the iconic Angel Orensanz Foundation, a New York City Historic Landmark.

Designer David Demovic working on the "You are IQ" sustainable collection
Designer David Demovic working on the “You are IQ” sustainable collection.

Monika Lacekova is the founder of Atelier 71, a fashion designer, visual artist, and educator. David Demovic is a laureate of the Glass Button Awards Slovakia as the “New Designer of the Year” sponsored by the +421 Foundation New York and Atelier 71. The Glass Button Awards (GBA) granted David an artistic residency at Atelier 71 and a presentation of his work at Couture Fashion Week New York.

Mr. Demovic’s debut collection highlights the trend that prevails in our consumer society: buying cheaply and excessively. Under the leadership of Monika Lacekova at Atelier 71, he was inspired to transform used clothes into new looks, working with the original garment, and altering the fabric within, in an upcycling process. Together they introduced an original innovation entitled You are IQ. It is based on the sustainable waste-to-fashion principle, turning fashion waste into fabulous new fabrics and garments. 

Atelier 71

Atelier 71 is a craft house, focusing on fashion design, where creativity reigns. It is a place to learn, create and connect. It was established by the Mola Couture designer Monika Lacekova, the true artist and educator, who has been working in the field of textile design for 30 years. Atelier 71 puts an emphasis on hand-made design and is involved in numerous projects to restore and preserve true craftsmanship. The team’s focus includes artistic embroidery, making of hats and accessories and textile recycling – just to name a few – supporting the new generation of artists and fashion designers, like David Demovic.

Upcycled denim haute couture design by David Demovic for Atelier 71
Upcycled denim haute couture design by David Demovic for Atelier 71.

Plus421 Foundation New York

The +421 Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2006 with offices in New York,  the United States and Bratislava, Slovakia. It pursues a mission of enhancing mutual understanding; relations between the American and Slovak people by showcasing the cultural richness of Slovakia to diverse audiences, and by creating opportunities for mutually beneficial interaction in the cultural sphere and beyond. The name of the organization derives from the international telephone calling code for Slovakia, which is +421. The organization works to generate visibility for Slovak arts, culture, and various charitable causes through art exhibitions, performances, educational workshops, and cultural events around the world.

Couture Fashion Week New York

Now entering its 40th consecutive season, Couture Fashion Week is one of the most prestigious fashion events in New York. Hundreds of exceptional designers from around the globe have shown their designs on the CFW runways to consistently enthusiastic receptions from audiences of fashion-loving consumers, international press, VIPs and members of the trade. Founded by designer and producer Andres Aquino, the event is known for presenting great fashion designers along with world-class performers.

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Unveiling the Magic: A Bride’s Guide to Wedding Dress Fashion Shows

Unveiling the Magic: A Bride's Guide to Wedding Dress Fashion Shows
Photo: Pexels.com

With so many different bridal gown styles to choose from, finding the ideal wedding dress for your big day can be challenging. A great way to find your perfect bridal gown is by watching or reading about the latest wedding dress fashion shows. 

These fashion shows are specifically created to provide brides with a sneak peek into the latest trends and designs. They showcase a variety of styles, from timeless classics to modern, avant-garde creations.

Additionally, you’ll get to see how different silhouettes, fabrics, and embellishments come to life on the runway. Attending or watching a wedding dress fashion show can help you narrow down your preferences and discover which styles make you feel most beautiful and confident.

Here are some bridal dress fashion shows that you can attend whether you’re in your PJs or in a coffee shop:

New York Bridal Fashion Week

This is probably one of the biggest and most popular bridal fashion events, attracting designers, buyers, and brides from all over the world. Some prominent designers featured in New York Bridal Fashion Week are Vera Wang, Marchesa, and Monique L’huillier.

If you prefer modern minimalist styles, romantic lace, or bold gowns, then you’ll find plenty of inspiration from the New York Bridal Fashion Week collections.

Milan Bridal Week

The Milan Bridal Week is known for celebrating the rich heritage of Italian design. It emphasizes the exquisite detail and superior quality that Italian designers are renowned for. Brides attending this event will be treated to a stunning array of gowns that highlight intricate lacework, luxurious silks, and impeccable cuts, reflecting the best of Italian bridal couture.

Alberta Ferretti, Atelier Eme, and Peter Langner are famous designers who usually participate in Milan Bridal Week. If you’re a fan of Italian glamor and timeless silhouettes, then watching Milan Bridal Week is a must.

London Bridal Fashion Week

London Bridal Fashion Week features regal designs that are fit for a queen. The collections often showcase luxurious fabrics, intricate lace, and elegant silhouettes, making every bride feel like royalty on her special day.

Designers such as Jenny Packham, Temperley London, and Sassi Holford are usually part of the London Bridal Fashion Week. In addition to timeless, elegant silhouettes, the London Bridal Fashion Week also has an array of eclectic styles that reflect the diverse tastes of modern brides, from bohemian chic to glamorous embellishments.

Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles

Bridal gown collections from the Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles usually contain a combination of Hollywood glamor and bold, figure-hugging silhouettes. These gowns are perfect for brides who want to embrace a luxurious and dramatic look, featuring sleek lines, glamorous accents, and a touch of sparkle.

Some popular designers who are part of Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles are Claire Pettibone, Galia Lahav, and Lazaro. If you like Hollywood-inspired bridal gowns, then you’ll find plenty of inspiration at Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles.

How to Watch These Shows Online

With a phone and wifi, watching bridal fashion shows has become incredibly convenient. There are several popular wedding dress fashion shows that can be viewed online, allowing brides all over the world to get a glimpse of the latest trends and find inspiration for their dream dress. 

You can start by checking out the official Fashion Week websites, which typically offer live streaming and on-demand replays. For a broader scope, Fashion Week Online is an excellent resource, providing live streams and replays of shows from New York, London, Milan, and Los Angeles. 

For New York Bridal Fashion Week, you can visit The Bridal Council’s website, which offers exclusive content and detailed coverage of the event.

Bridal Gown Style Highlights from the Latest Fashion Shows

Before pinning on a specific bridal gown style and choosing your wedding accessories, it’s important to consider your personal style and the overall theme and venue of your wedding.

Marchesa’s latest collection from the New York Bridal Fashion Week is ideal for brides seeking an ethereal look. The collection showcases breathtaking gowns with romantic details such as cascading ruffles, delicate beading, and floral lace motifs.

For the classic bride, Sassi Holford’s latest collection from the same event might be a perfect fit. Their collection features timeless silhouettes paired with contemporary elements like illusion lace and sleek crepe fabrics.

From Runway to Reality: Post-Wedding Gown Care

After you’ve found the perfect dress, you’ll want to ensure it stays looking flawless for years to come. Here’s why professional wedding dress cleaning is crucial:

Expert Stain Removal

Wedding festivities can lead to unexpected spills or makeup stains. Professional cleaners have the expertise and gentle methods to remove these blemishes safely, preventing permanent damage.

Delicate Fabric Care

Wedding dresses are often made from delicate materials like silk or lace. Professional cleaners understand how to care for these fabrics, ensuring your gown retains its shape and structure.

Long-Term Preservation

Proper cleaning removes dirt, sweat, and oils that can deteriorate the fabric over time. This extends the lifespan of your dress, allowing you to pass it down as a heirloom or simply enjoy it as a cherished memento.

Here’s how to find a reputable wedding dress cleaning service:

  • Read online reviews and recommendations.
  • Look for a service that specializes in wedding gown cleaning.
  • Ask about their cleaning methods and experience.
  • Get a written estimate before the cleaning process begins.

By prioritizing professional cleaning, you can ensure your wedding dress remains a beautiful reminder of your special day for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Finding your ideal wedding dress should not be a stressful experience. Remember to focus on what makes you feel beautiful and confident. Take your time exploring different styles and designers, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Tony Kantzavelos, CEO, Love Your DressAbout the Author

Tony Kantzavelos is the CEO of Love Your Dress, a premier dress-cleaning company in Ontario with over three decades of experience in dress cleaning and alteration. It operates in an impressive 10,000-square-foot facility in West Toronto.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi Returns to Couture Fashion Week with Exquisite New Designs

Karishma Deepa Sondhi fashion showTop Indian luxury fashion brand Karishma Deepa Sondhi (KDS) will present their latest exquisite designs during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 38th season during a special Times Square showcase.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi fashion showKarishma Deepa Sondhi is a mother-daughter venture. Karishma, who attended the Parson’s School of Design in New York, handles designing, and Deepa oversees production, sales, marketing and media. The brand caters to women of all shapes and sizes, with a strong belief that fashion is for everyone, it’s fluid and inclusive. In addition to its couture and pret-a-porter creations, KDS is renowned for its gorgeous bridal designs, dressing not only Indian brides, but also European and American brides. The luxurious KDS flagship store in New Delhi caters to an international clientele from the USA, Canada and other countries as well as loyal Indian clients. Its workshop of fifty people includes master tailors, drapers, pattern makers, and embroiderers. The KDS signature style is originality, noted for aesthetically flowing drapes juxtaposed to structured western wear. All designs are impeccably handcrafted, and include all kinds of meticulous embroideries like beads, stones, Swarovski crystals, bugle beads and pearls, creating timeless and collectible ensembles.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi has shown designs on the runway at numerous important fashion events in India as well as Couture Fashion Week New York. The brand is a favorite of many Bollywood celebrities like Bipasha Basu, Mallika Sherawat, Zareen Khan, and more.

Award-Winning Designer Isabel Lopez at Couture Fashion Week New York

Award-Winning Designer Isabel Lopez to Debut at Couture Fashion Week New York

Award-winning fashion designer and entrepreneur Isabel Lopez will present the latest collection for her Isabel Original International label at Couture Fashion Week New York. Part of the 37th season of the prestigious event, the runway show will be held at 4:00 pm on Sunday February 5, 2023 at the Prince George Ballroom in the Flatiron District of New York City.

A native of Colombia, Isabel Lopez moved to the USA in the 1990’s to pursue her fashion dreams. She studied at the prestigious Esmoda School of Fashion in Cali, Colombia and at the Burdette School in Boston. Now based in Miami, she is renowned for her unique couture designs that accentuate the sensual curves of a women’s body, capturing the spirit of elegance. Each original design is personally created by Isabel Lopez, from cutting to stitching, from embellishment to embroidery; reflecting the designer’s talent and passion. The signature phrase of the Isabel Original International brand is “Be Sexy, Be Beautiful, Be Original!”

Award-Winning Designer Isabel Lopez to Debut at Couture Fashion Week New YorkIsabel Original International designs have graced the red carpet at many of the most important events around the USA, including the Latin Grammys, the Billboard Awards and Premio Lo Nuestro, and have been featured in major media worldwide. They have also been shown on top fashion runways such as New York Fashion Week, Boston Fashion Week, Boston Fashion Awards, the Raw Awards, Catwalk for Cure for the American Cancer Society, Rock the Runway, Naples Fashion Week, Fort Myers Fashion Week, and more.

In addition to running her fashion label, Isabel Lopez has experience as a model and actress, and served as founder/director of the Miss Colombia New England pageant. She is also the founder and publisher of Original Living Magazine, another facet of her brand, which gives her the opportunity to feature artists, including herself, on a platform to share their inspired work.

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By Sarasty Brings Luxury Eco-Friendly Designs to Couture Fashion Week New York

Designer Camila Sarasty will present the latest creations for her By Sarasty label during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 37th season. The fashion show will be held at 6:00 pm on Sunday February 5, 2023 at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City.

A native of Colombia, Camila Sarasty is a professional in Fashion Design and Marketing, and a graduate of the prestigious Arturo Tejada Cano design and fashion school. She is the creative director of her own By Sarasty brand, which focuses on versatile, luxury, handmade garments, suitable for a wide range of occasions. Her signature pashminas and bandanas are fresh and light, highlighting the intrinsic beauty of women. By Sarasty has shown at New York Fashion Week and has been featured in press worldwide. Her beautiful designs have garnered a large enthusiastic clientele. With an environmentally conscious mission, all By Sarasty designs are made with recycled fabrics with water or digital printing.

By Sarasty is working to become a transformational fashion brand. “I want to impact people’s lives by offering something different: handmade luxury pieces that connect on a physical and personal level in any part of the world,” says Camila Sarasty.

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Red Carpet Fashion Designer Supports Equal Rights for Children

Red Carpet Fashion Designer Andres Aquino Supports Equal Rights for ChildrenDesigner Andres Aquino is pleased to announce his collaboration with Equal Rights for Children (ERC) in the upcoming fashion show presenting his latest collection entitled “New York Fashion Symphony”. Part of Couture Fashion Week New York’s 37th season, the show will be held at 8 pm on Saturday February 4, 2023 at the historic Prince George Ballroom, in the city’s Flatiron District. The festive show will include musical performers, the expected participation of models Bea Alonzo and Silmara Ribeiro, Daiana Canalas and Leyla Murugova, among others, as well as the support of a growing list of sponsors.

Andres Aquino is the founder and producer of Couture Fashion Week New York. A fixture of the New York fashion scene, he is an accomplished designer himself, and has shown his designs at important fashion events worldwide including in Dubai, Nepal, India, Romania, Paris, the Dominican Republic and multiple cities in the USA. He is also the founder of the Global Short Film Awards, with an annual black-tie awards gala held in Cannes, France held to coincide with the Cannes Film Festival.

Equal Rights for Children is an active partner for the 17 sustainable goals under the United Nations on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), with a special focus on mothers and children born out of wedlock and both of their legal rights. The non-profit organization’s main goal is that no child is discriminated against no matter when, where, or how they were born. ERC was founded by Amadea Angela Aquino (no relation), and its Board of Directors includes boxing legend, humanitarian and former Philippine Senator Manny Pacquiao, and H.E. Ambassador Libran N. Cabactulan. The organization’s supporters include UNIK Advertising, Nicole Miller, the Foreign Press Association, as well as the Philippine Mission to the United Nations which is also a partner in promoting children’s rights and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Couture Fashion Week (CFW) is one of New York Fashion Week’s most prestigious events. It showcases the work of exceptional designers from around the globe. It is an important platform for fashion industry professionals, celebrities, and media attention, and has a reputation for presenting the latest trends and styles in the world of couture fashion along with delightful musical performers, makeup and hair styling by top industry professionals, red carpet, and after parties.

The upcoming show is a unique opportunity to raise funds and awareness for ERC’s work and mission. The collaboration of CFW and ERC highlights the importance and value of working together to make a difference in the world.

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Please inquire for sponsor opportunities and include your name and website/social media: [email protected]

Geraldina’s Couture Makes Highly-Anticipated Debut at Couture Fashion Week NY

Geraldina’s Couture Makes Highly-Anticipated Debut at Couture Fashion Week New YorkDesigner Geraldina Shabani will present her latest collection for her signature Geraldina’s Couture label during the 37th season of Couture Fashion Week New York. The highly-anticipated fashion show will be held at 6 pm on Saturday February 4, 2023 at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City.

A native of Albania, now based in the New York area, Geraldina Shabani began designing and sewing her own designs at the age of 10, and has never looked back. For economic reasons, she eventually moved to Greece, where she took a series of jobs and was able to bring her son to join her after a few years. Soon after, she established a network of clients and supporters who recognized her exceptional skills, and helped her launch a startup business specializing in tailoring and alterations. Her endeavors led to work on furniture and décor for hotels and villas, eventually supervising uniforms for 750 employees in a large hotel.

After emigrating to the United States, and with her young son serving as her translator, Geraldina landed a plum job with renowned fashion designer Peggy Jennings at the iconic Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. As she continued to improve her English skills, Geraldina garnered a number of private clients and offers from top fashion brands looking for skilled seamstresses and designers. She went on to work for Christian Dior, Dolce and Gabbana, Fendi and Prada. In 2015 Geraldina realized a lifelong dream and opened her own couture atelier in Hartsdale, New York, outside of New York City, and quickly became known for her impeccable quality and exquisite workmanship. When the Covid Geraldina’s Couture Makes Highly-Anticipated Debut at Couture Fashion Week New Yorkpandemic hit, Geraldina found herself making face masks, and was recognized in the effort by the media and even City Hall. This attention had all of Westchester County lining up at her door to buy masks, and she also donated many masks to local health care workers. At this point, Geraldina needed a larger space, so she moved to her current location in Scarsdale, New York.

As Geraldina’s Couture gears up for its first major fashion show in New York, the designer reflects on how she is determined to bounce back from the pandemic challenges, keep and grow her valued clientele and workers, and bring her brand to the next level. Geraldina’s Couture has launched a GoFundMe campaign for the show, and invites her current and new fans and supporters to donate.

“Raising this money for my fashion show in February will be my way of thanking everyone who helped me get to this point,” says Geraldina. “All of the love that was given to me and my son did not go to waste. I am now working to pay fashion show fees along with my workers, staff, models, fabric and materials, transportation and more. Every bit helps.” She adds: “All the designs we will be showcasing are handmade by myself and my team. I want to inspire other women — and especially mothers that survived or are trying to survive — that there is love and hope, and it’s never too late to go after your dreams.”

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Top Celebrity Model Daiana Canalas to Grace the Catwalk at Designer Andres Aquino’s Fashion Shows

 

Model Daiana Canalas
Model Daiana Canalas. Makeup: Khristine Mardari.

Top model and celebrity Daiana Canales will appear as a special guest model for designer Andres Aquino at his fashion shows in New York and Malaysia in February 2023. Mr. Aquino’s latest couture collection is entitled “New York Fashion Symphony.” On February 4, the fashion show will be held at 8:00 pm at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City, as part of Couture Fashion Week New York’s 37th season. Then on February 25, the fashion show will be part of a festive gala event at the luxury Wyndham Acmar Klang Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“I am looking forward to working again with Daiana on these exciting events,” says designer and producer Andres Aquino. “She is always on point, always a top professional. She was born to shine.”

A native of Romania, Daiana Canales is the winner of numerous top modeling accolades including the Global Short Film Awards Cannes Best Model, Miss Summer World 2019, Miss Super Globe 2019, Top Model Universe Hungary 2019/2020, Miss Saint Tropez 2017, Miss Romania, Miss Tourism, Germany’s Next Top Model 2018, and more.

Daiana has been featured in print ad campaigns for Jaggad Australia and Waletty in Germany, among others. She was featured in the popular reality TV show The Power of Love in Istanbul, Turkey. She has appeared in many major publications worldwide including Vogue, GLW Magazine, Unique Magazine New York, and Deamina Magazine in Milan.  Daiana has also walked the fashion runway at events such as New York Fashion Week, Couture Fashion Week New York, Dubai Fashion Week, the Venice Film Festival, Bucharest Fashion Week, Los Angeles Fashion Week, the Global Short Film Awards Gala in Cannes during the Cannes Film Festival, and others.

Daiana is an avid fitness buff, a professional fashion model full of energy with a killer smile and always positive attitude.

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Designer Andres Aquino Brings “New York Fashion Symphony” to New York and Malaysia

Fashion Designer and Event Producer Andres Aquino

Award-winning fashion designer Andres Aquino will present his latest collection entitled “New York Fashion Symphony” at two prestigious events in February 2023, with the extraordinary creative journey spanning two continents. On February 4, the fashion show will be held at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City, as part of Couture Fashion Week New York’s 37th season. Then on February 25, the fashion show will be part of a festive gala event at the luxury Wyndham Acmar Klang Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“New York Fashion Symphony” is a couture collection inspired by the sounds of New York City.  Mr. Aquino has created a series of surrealist and fantasy art illustrations that will be custom printed on fabrics creating unique looks. “Bringing together fashion and art marks a new direction in my creative journey,” says Mr. Aquino ” The designs embody a New York of my imagination, a poetic dream, if you will, of the capital of the world and beyond.” Mr. Aquino designs exclusively one-of-kind and very limited-edition sophisticated and creative outfits for the red carpet, socialites, performers and other clients.

“I recently became involved in a number of exciting mining and technology projects, so art and fashion represent a delightful opportunity in a lighter and more imaginative sphere, Mr. Aquino says. “It is also a way to leave a cultural legacy while providing opportunities and making history with a team of other creative minds in the world of entertainment.”

Both the New York and Kuala Lumpur shows will feature live performers, highly creative makeup and hair designs, and top international runway models, including Daiana Canalas from Romania, and Leyla Murugova from Tatarstan.

About The Designer

In addition to being an acclaimed fashion designer, Andres Aquino is an artist, poet, entrepreneur (technology and mining), theater director, and event producer. Often called the “Urban Renaissance Man”, he is the founder and producer of Couture Fashion Week New York, one of New York Fashion Week’s most prestigious events. He is also the founder of the Global Short Film Awards, entering its 8th year in 2023, with an annual awards film and fashion gala held during the Cannes Film Festival.

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Top Model Leyla Murugova to Walk the Runway for Designer Andres Aquino’s Fashion Shows on Two Continents

Top Model Leyla Murugova
Photo: Roza Trifonova, @roza_trifonova_

Top fashion model and celebrity Leyla Murugova will appear as a special guest model for designer Andres Aquino at his fashion shows in New York and Malaysia in February 2023. Mr. Aquino’s latest couture collection is entitled “New York Fashion Symphony.” On February 4, the fashion show will be held at 8:00 pm at the historic Prince George Ballroom in New York City, as part of Couture Fashion Week New York’s 37th season, one of New York Fashion Week’s best events. Then on February 25, the fashion show will be part of a festive gala event at the luxury Wyndham Acmar Klang Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

A native of Tatarstan, Leyla Murugova is a rising star in the world of fashion modeling. She has walked for numerous designers at prestigious events during New York Fashion Week and Miami Fashion Week, among others, and she is also a celebrated pageant winner, holding titles such as Ms. World International, Ms. Universe World International, Mrs. Planet and Mrs. Millenium Universe.

Leyla is also an accomplished interior designer.

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