UNGARO GOES LO-HAN

Hollywood actress and paparazzi favorite Lindsay Lohan has been named as the official muse for the Ungaro fashion house.

Lohan has been appointed to the position of artistic adviser for the label. She will be working with new chief designer Estrella Archs, who replaces Esteban Cortazar.

The duo is collaborating on Ungaro's spring/summer 2010 collection which will be unveiled at Paris Fashion Week in October.

AFP

Source: smh.com.au

ECONOMY CLAIMS A FASHION COMPANY

German company Escada is the first fashion company to fall victim to the declining economy this fall.

FRANKFURT -- German fashion company Escada AG filed for bankruptcy after being unable to obtain sufficient financing, a Munich district court said Thursday.

The Munich-based luxury label, famous for women's fashion and accessories, was expected to make the filing this week after it failed to get the necessary support for a bond swap.

Escada, once one of the biggest fashion brands in the world, has seen its sales and earnings decline in recent years.

The company had hoped to reduce debt by offering bondholders a new bond in exchange, made up of two parts plus a cash component. Taken together, the new bond would have carried a total nominal value of €400 ($568) in exchange for every €1,000 in nominal value of the old bond.

Escada said a number of restructuring measures, including a plan to raise €30 million through its bigger investors and a credit extension of more than €13 million, had been contingent on the bond swap, but it didn't get enough support from the bondholders. The minimum acceptance ratio was 80% of bondholders.

A successful swap would have also given the company some immediate liquidity to help it eliminate some of its debt.

The company said earlier this week that the situation was "regrettable," but that it still hoped for a turnaround in its finances and business.

In the fiscal year 2008, the company posted a net loss of €70 million and sales of €528 million. In the first half of the fiscal year ending in April, it lost €92 million.

Escada operates 182 of its own shops and 225 franchise shops in more than 60 countries, employing about 2,300 people.

Shares of Escada fell 6% to 66 European shares in afternoon trading in Frankfurt.

—Dow Jones Newswires contributed to this article.

Copyright © 2009 Associated Press

FALL 2009 TREND REPORT: MEN

Ok, men take notes & grab your favorite fashion friend, it's time to stop crunching numbers or checking your stock portfolio-- it's time to update your wardrobe. Whether you are a ROLLING STONE, a SOUL PROTECTOR, or a MAD MAN, clothes always determine the man. Gear up for a fantastic fall/winter without the stress of this past year! Fall head over heels in love with these 3 key trends for men:

1. ROLLING STONE. Has the economy got you waivering on fall holiday plans? Cheer up, chum, this winter grab your skiis, hiking boots, and camping grear. Make the outdoors your winter wonderland. Native american prints, bold plaids, and cozy thermals inspire tales of rails and trails. Turn up the heat with layers of plaid, thermal, and cargos. From DSquared to Ralph Lauren, these designers are ready to get out from behind the desk and create their own adventure!

2. SOUL PROTECTOR. Still not sure if you can embrace these trends? Then stay heavily guarded in your best suit of armour. Sometimes the best weapon is looking stealth in your threads. Alexander McQueen and Calvin Klein take inspiration from G.I. Joe's closet. Look for bullet-proof faux details, such as quilting jackets, sleek tailored coats, and molded foam vests, so that you can be an American hero. Try pairing high neck turtlenecks with a velvet blazer and a pinstripe scarf. Make it street savvy by adding a badass pair of leather cut-off gloves that pack a Kung-fu grip. No need for the Brinks truck now.

3. MAD MAN. Eager to make waves in the boardroom and in the bedroom? Leave the skinny jeans for the emo kids on Sunset and take a trip back in time to the sexy 60's. Confidence is the best accessory when reminiscing on these good ole days. There is nothing sexier than a man in tailored suit, can we say Don Draper? The runway competition was fierce this fall. Ralph Lauren kept it classic with his ruthless silhouette that only he can perfect. Louis Vuitton knows the best things in life come in 3's- blazer, vest, and slacks. For the men who are looking for a statement without saying a word, try Ermenegildo Zegna's tweed trench pair a Brooke Brothers white dress shirt, with a Hugo Boss charcoal scarf, and your favorite jeans. (Men, stay smart with a bootcut jean- favorites are William Rast, Joe's jeans, and Hudsons.)

FALL 2009 TREND REPORT: WOMEN

Fall Fashion Trend Report 2009 is a little different than last year. The recession is definitely at the top of the list when it comes to the movement of trends. We will see some trends stay and some trends go. So which ones should we with open arms and which of your favorite designers gave us something to smile about until the recession passes like and old hand-me down?

1. Leatherheads. Vroom! Vroom! This season's "Must-Have" leather jacket can be seen worn on top of a little black dress or paired with a perfect t-shirt and jean for a night out. From Ackerman to Alexander Wang, designers went hog wild with this trend of leathers, buckles, and zippers. Do not be inspired by a local biker bar, these sophisticated motorcycle jackets are a definite a fashion tribute to the hip, motorcycle rockin' James Dean.

2. Boudoir Babe. A little lace never hurt anyone and it definitely does not disappoint. Lace, sheer, and tulle take centerstage this fall and not just under your wearables, but as the main event. Sheer geniuses take note, from delicate details at Balenciaga, to intricately draped corsets at Fendi, channel your inner lingerie diva. Parade around in a decadent bra with a blazer and a slimming pair of tuxedo slacks and give a whole new meaning to Playmate.

3. "New Look". Just like the 40's and the end of the depression, designers are ready to scale down the fancy smancy details of the past. In the 40's, Dior founded the decade as the "New Look", which emphasized the plush fabrics, stream-line silhouette, and elegant lines. Velvets, furs, and feathers are an ode to the legend costumers of the past that dressed Icons, such as Rita Hayworth and Greta Garbo. From Dolce & Gabbana to Zac Posen, these designers were inspired by lavish lifestyles and memories of a luxurious past.

4. 80's Evolution. The eighties are not going anywhere, so unpack your acid wash jeans, shoulder pads, and sharkskin fabrics because those once hideous fashion choices from your childhood might be a hot comodity. The Twisted Sister who put her own spin on this trend, is none other than fashion legend, Donatella Versace, who brought back the party dresses straight out of Whitney Houston's closet!

5. Shaken and Shirred. Rouched and ready for a night out, these divinely draped shirts, skirts, and dresses will have you turning heads. Sinfully slim-fitting dresses that have their own swagger is a trend that you do not want to miss. Holiday 2009 is sure to be a season of charmeuse, chiffon, and jersey fabrics. Dior to Donna Karan's creations will give you something to toast to at a company's Christmas party.

6. Security Blanket. Trenches, vests, and double breasted coats are classic and comforting. They give a sense of security to an unstable economy and for that matter an unstable closet. Even risktakers, such as, Prada and YSL sent masterly fit coats down the runway alongside, the tailored and traditional trenchcoats of Burberry and Armani. When your wallet gets tight, turn to the timeless treasures already in your closet.

HOW TO BE BOOTY-LICIOUS

Just like finding the perfect bra to lift, separate, and accentuate, finding the perfect jean with those same characteristics is just as important. Most women aren't born blessed like Beyonce or Kim Kardashian. How do you get those "lovely lady lumps" if you are not genetically gifted? Worry no more, there are a few tips and tricks to create the illusion of a ridiculous rump, that requires no lunges or squats. (on a fitness note, squats and lunges can really help lift and tone your booty without fail.) What is the price tag of a designer jean that can create the bodacious bum of your favorite celebrity?

If you already have a little 'junk in the trunk' and just need a little lift, without going under the knife, I recommend denim designers that have a higher, detailed pocket, such as, True Religion, Hudson, Joe's, Levi, and Miss Me jeans. The smaller the yoke at the waist and the pockets positioned higher can lift the posterior just as if you'd been doing squats for 6 months. And the added benefit to these denim lines is that it will also shrink the your waist, because the fit gives the mirage of losing at least 5 lbs! Who doesn't love that? Create a rear and have a smaller waist? Yes, fashion is good for you!

Here's a quick shopping list from these designers for those of you who suffer from FAS (Flat A$$ Syndrome):

• True Religion "Joey", in a dark wash. The embellished pocket helps give fullness and lift. Retails at $260. TrueReligionJeans.com


• Hudson "SuperModel" boot cut jeans in Scorpio wash because they have a slight spandex in the fabric, to slim the thigh, hips, and waist. Retails at $180. Nordstrom.com


• Joe's "Honey" bootcut in Gigi wash perfects a feminine silhouette. Retails at $145. Available at Macy's.

If you are not ready to splurge on True Religion, Hudson, and Joe's jeans, try these 2 less expensive options for recession-savvy fashionistas, trying to not only pinch a penny in their cheeks, but their pocketbook too:

• Levi 522 boot cut jeans are amazing for the women on a budget. They will definitely lift and tone your tush just like the expensive designer jeans above, but are more affordable. Retails at $69. Available at Levi.com.


• Miss Me jean, dark wash, 6 pocket boot cut hugs the thigh and widens slightly at the knee giving a sleek polished, and put together look for any occasion. Retails at $88. Available at MissMe.com.

Simple rules for obtaining the terrific tush:

1. Pockets. The position of the pockets is so important. Also, the embroidered and flap pockets on the back of the jeans is essential when highlighting your assets. My favorite are the Hudson jeans.


2. Cut the bum in half. The hem of your shirt should be long enough to rest right at the center (horizontally) cutting the bum in half, this will round out your bottom.


3. Added Umpf. Hollywood always has a little secret and I discovered these little pair of perfect panties at a gifting suite last year- Bootypoppanties.com. They are a comfy lil boy short panty that come in a variety shades of girly colors and have padding sewn right into them that will give you the bodacious booty that would make Giselle jealous. These panties are a favorite of Ashley Tisdale, Kelly Ripa, and Anna Faris.

Avoid bigger pockets, loose baggy jeans, and just say no to the low rise jeans! These are fashion no-no's for women looking to plump up their lady lumps!

BE A JEAN-IUS

Denim is one fabric that is in every person's closet! The one item that we all have in common, but do you know how to wear it correctly for your body? Let's talk about the basic problems that need a solution-- FIT is KEY! Whether you are petite and searching for length or curvy and wanting a slimmer look, I'm here to help! So grab a pen, take some notes and these helpful tips will make your next jean buying experience a class act!

Body Type: Petite

Problem: Wants to Look Taller

Solution: If you are a petite frame, baggy or boyfriend jeans are simply not a flattering option. To elongate your frame, a fitted bootcut or straight-leg cut will give the illusion of length and the darker denim, the better, it's guaranteed to make you atleast 2 inches taller.

Citizens of Humanity 'Dita' Bootcut Stretch Jeans. Available at Nordstrom, $149.

Fit: Low rise; boot cut leg.Expect these jeans to be snug initially. With wear, they will stretch and conform to your body. Use hip measurement to determine size. If between sizes order one size up.

Sizing: 24=00, 25=0, 26=2, 27=4, 28=6, 29=8, 30=10, 31=10-12, 32=12.

Paige Premium Denim- Womens Hidden Hills Petite - Black Sea. Available at PaigePremiumDenim.com, $180.

Fit: Boot-cut stretch jeans in a dark-blue wash are proportionally designed for a smaller frame with a shorter inseam and higher knee break. Slight distressing and fading creates a cool worn-in look.

Sizing: 24=00, 25=0, 26=2, 27=4, 28=6, 29=8, 30=10, 31=10-12, 32=12.

GAP Women's Low rise boot cut jeans. Available at GAP, $39 (yes, you read this correctly, recessionistas take note!)

Fit: Your favorite jean for a smaller frame. Traditional GAP blue jean is both classic and timeless.

Sizing: 0-16

Body Type: Booty-Less
Problem: Creating a Booty
Solution: If you are a long & lean figure with less booty. Women who are not blessed with Beyonce's assets need to create a silhouette that is feminine and curve enhancing. Stretch denim, placement of pockets and the yoke in back is imperative when achieving this goal without padding your tush!

Silver Jeans Women's "SUKI" ORIGINAL FIT. Available at SilverJeans.com, $75.

Fit: An even lower rise with a slimmer hip & thigh than the Original Fit. Perfect pocket placement gives you just the right magic to give the baby some back.

Size: 26-33

Hudson Jeans Triangle Pocket Bootcut Stretch Jeans (Scorpio). Available at Nordstrom, $176.

Fit: Stretches to fit through hip and thigh.Expect these jeans to be snug initially. With wear, they will stretch and conform to your body. Use hip measurement to determine size. If between sizes, order one size up.

Sizing: 24=00, 25=0, 26=2, 27=4, 28=6, 29=8, 30=10, 31=10-12, 32=12.

Gridlock Jeans Straight Leg Denim 1901F. Available at Gridlockdenim.com, $190. Create your own pockets.

Fit: Slim fit through hip and thigh. Jeans fit perfect on a long & lean frame. Pockets enhance the shape and curve of the rear to create a little junk in the trunk.

Sizing: 24-3

Body Type: Curvy
Problem: Needs to Fit Waist and Flatter Hips

Solution: Lycra is your friend! Yes, I said it, stretch denim is your new BFF, not Paris. Find denim that shows off your dangerous curves in a positive way. No muffin tops allowed!

Express MIA BOOT CUT JEAN - RAW DISTRESS. Available at Express, $49.50.

Fit: Stretches to fit waist appropriately and smooth throughout the hips and thighs. Creating sexy lines and slimming at the same time.

Sizing: 0-14

Indidenim Custom Make Denim SoMa Essex. Available at Indidenim.com, $145.

Fit: You send in your measurements and the jeans are custom made to your body, how JEAN-IUS is that? It's like BUILD A JEAN! Loves it!

Sizing: Your measurements!

Women's DKNY Jeans Stretch Soho Boot Cut Jeans, Rinse Wash. Available at MACY'S, $48.

Fit: Perfect fit on the waist and hips, tailored with stretch and a skinnier leg. This works well on the women who have curves and thinner legs.

Sizing: 2-14

Body Type: Long Legs

Problem: Wants to Wear Jeans, not Floods

Solution: I, personally am in this category. It's so important that we find jeans that fit us, not only at the waist, but in the inseam. Lucky for us, we have more options now, then we did five years ago. More and more designers are making a 34" inseam.

Body Type: Pear Shape

Problem: Jeans that Flatter a Bootilicous Backside

Solution: I don't think there ready, because your body is too bootilicious for us, right? Umm, no, believe it or not, there are jeans that compliment a fuller backside. You don't see JLo, jean-less, no way! So, rock those rumps to some of this season's hottest jeans.

KING OF POP "STYLE"

Since the early days of the Jackson Five, Michael Jackson has set himself apart from every other musical artist with his tremendous talent, but also utterly unique sense of style. From his bell-bottoms and Afro as a child star to his current military inspired suits, his fashion statements are etched permanently into our memory banks. Regardless of your particular opinion of Michael Jackson, it is undeniable that he has driven fashion and style to a whole new level. In these times of political correctness in unrecognizable styles of celebrities it is popular to bash the fashion sense of Michael Jackson. But, those that look without prejudice were excited to see his unique fashion picks on that famous trial. For those who wish to draw from the Michael Jackson’s ever-changing looks, each decade of his career provided a host of incredibly creative design elements.
Michael Jackson burst upon the pop scene in the early 1970’s wearing fringed shirts, platform heels, and wide bell-bottom pants. With a “Huggy Bear” inspired hat to top off his look, he delighted crowds with his astonishingly polished stage presence. If you are attracted to this era of Michael Jackson, try paisley shirts, and suede vests.
As Jackson reached early adulthood, the album “Off The Wall” introduced a new sleeker look. With tuxedo jackets, pegged pants, black shoes, and stark white socks, his iconoclastic style was beginning to take shape. From all of the different fashion eras in Jackson’s career, this look is probably the most sophisticated and easily emulated. For this retro look, try a simple black suit with an open collared white dress shirt. Add black loafers, and a fedora hat, and you’ll be ready to impress everyone with your “moonwalk”.
What most of us think of as the “Michael Jackson” style came to fruition when the album “Thriller” shot to the top of the billboard charts. His signature red leather jacket with its zippered details, tight fitting parachute pants, and a single white sequined glove encompassed the look of the 1980’s. His hair was styled in collar length, Jerry curls and he was frequently seen in mirrored aviator sunglasses. While most of us would probably avoid wearing all elements of this look these days, a nod to Michael Jackson’s style can be achieved by donning a cool pair of aviator specs and a custom leather jacket. Who didn’t want to look a little like Michael Jackson when they are belting out Billie Jean at the local karaoke bar?
When thinking of Michael’s fashion in 90s, what usually come to mind are his edgy, theatrical costumes he wore on performances. Forgotten are his fine, sophisticated suits and ensembles he was wearing those years. He always strived to look neat and sophisticated. Michael was never caught by the trends and popular fads of the moment. His fashion sense was composed of classic styles, with addition of his own touches like his trademark armbands and other military inspired accessories.
In the last several years, Jackson’s cutting edge fashion has taken a backseat to his drastic plastic surgery and his controversial lifestyle. While defending himself against charges of child molestation, crowds of reporters and fans gathered at the court house to capture a glimpse of what Michael was wearing each day. Michael Jackson never wore the same thing twice for his courtroom appearances and clothes were made each day, his designers have revealed. He tended to favor an unusual array of greatly tailored suits with pinned brass medals, and brightly colored vests leaving a very strong impression. Once again he declined to “fit in”. Instead he was sticking to himself - the true superstar he really is. He even appeared before the judge one day wearing pajamas.
After being acquitted of all charges, Michael disappeared for a while and now is gone forever from us. Unfortunately, his plans for an anticipated comeback will never get to be experienced. But thanks to the millions of fans, his music & style will live on our childhood memories. We will always be able to recall where we were when we heard "Thriller" or when we tried to emulate the "Moonwalk" for friends & families.

Today's music artists, such as, Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, just to name a few, all took a note out of Michael's style book. Their wardrobe & fashion choices were definitely a respectful admiration of the King of Pop's style. He didn't just inspire male artists in the Pop genre, the ladies always admired MJ's fierce fashion. From Britney to Rihanna, they all wanted to be the "pretty baby with the high heels on". Michael Jackson will always be remembered for the ability to recreate his image with his personality, charisma, and larger-than life style. As the music industry & the world mourn his passing, the fashion world will never be the same. He was the man that was able to break down stereotypes, create trends, and never sold-out to what was happening in the world. And that’s an important style lesson to be learnt from Michael Jackson.

What are your favorite Michael Jackson ensembles? Feel free to comment below & share your thoughts on the King of Pop's style contributions.

Rest in Peace the King of Pop & Style!