StyleWeek Providence

Monday Beauty Blog-It's summer! Heat Friendly Makeup!

2011-05-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

Today is the unofficial first day of summer. And with a high of 90F today, it seems like Mother Nature is making up for lost time. While beautiful weather may inspire many of us to wear lighter clothes and lighter makeup it certainly doesn’t mean we want to be any less lovely. The heat does present a few challenges to us though. Melt proof makeup that is still gorgeous requires a bit of finesse, but is by no means difficult.

I find that when it is muggy out, I want to spend no more than a few minutes applying my makeup. I want it to be feather light. And I want it to be longwearing even in the heat. These requirements mean that we need to find products that are not only light and easy to apply but they also need to be durable.

· I start by tightlining (also known as French lining) the upper lash line. This is done with a flat brush: I like Laura Mercier’s, and Paula Dorf’s, a cake liner: I like Laura’s, and Trish McEvoy’s and some sort of long wearing transforming product: Laura Mercier’s Activator and Paula Dorf’s Transformer are two of my favorites. Simply press on your upper lid so that lashes point upward and wiggle the brush dampened with the activator and cake liner into your lash line.

· If the multi-product approach is too intense you can take the same approach with a pencil, but make sure you use a water proof formula: I like Chanel’s waterproof (favorite color Cassis) and all of Make Up For Ever’s Aqua Crayons (try 4L) or their Aqua Cream Liner with a flat brush (I love 5). And again, just wiggle in between the eye lashes. I typically only line the top on hot days to minimize midday smudging.

· After lining the upper lash line I will normally press a single shimmery color on the entire lid. This is always best to do with a brush, regardless of whether you use a cream shadow or powder, but in the summer, I am often guilty of just pressing on the pigment with my fingers, and that is okay. Just pick light, forgiving, colors. For powder shadows: I am currently OBSESSED (hee hee word play!) with Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics loose powder pigments. (Flawed and Clove look beautiful on almost everyone!). If you want to use cream shadows hands down my two favorites are: Laura Mercier’s Crème Metallics (try Platinum or Gold) and Make Up For Ever Aqua Crème Shadows (try 11, 13 or 15) and press sparingly on the lid. When using a cream shadow use very little, and go light, to avoid creasing.

· Curl your lashes and apply a coat of mascara. Now, my eye cream addiction has made me one of those people who even waterproof mascara smudges. The only mascara that will stay put on me is the kind of mascara that form little tubes around your lashes. A few companies make these (Kiss Me, Trish McEvoy, Kevyn Aucoin, and L’Oreal Paris) ranging in price from $10-$30+. Pick the one with the price and the brush that you like best. They really are all incredibly similar.

· Now is when we talk about foundation. To many women, the thought of wearing foundation in the summer is almost repulsive. To others, the thought of going out without foundation is a far more nauseating prospect. The good news is companies have figured out that even the foundation-phobic want beautiful skin and have created formulas to satisfy everyone’s needs. For the summer I have two favorites: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics tinted moisturizer has incredible texture and feels absolutely weightless. It is beautiful buildable coverage that photographs like flawless skin, and feels like nothing on. It comes in a vast array of colors and is incredibly easy to apply. My other favorite is Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua. It is a water based foundation that is medium coverage, with a weightless feel. It is limited in colors (not as many darker shades as I would like) but has the bonus of an SPF 15. With both formulas you will be shocked at how little is needed to create near flawless skin.

· If there are a few spots that need additional coverage (for me it will always be my under eyes) a good creamy concealer is essential. I love Too Faced cosmetics and RMS concealer. Both provide a ton of coverage in a beautiful texture. Each company only make a few colors though, all of which are pretty light; so I would recommend for my friends with darker complexions try Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage. She recently expanded her range to accommodate almost every tone. Another safe bet for all skin tones is Kevyn Aucoin’s Sensual Skin Enhancer (fair warning though use the teeniest amount conceivable, like head of a pin teeny, a little goes a LONG way). Try to apply as lightly as possible when applying concealer in the summer so you won’t have to set with powder. If you know you crease no matter what, than setting with loose colorless powder like Laura or MUFE is wise. But be sparing.

· If you like a bronzed look, might I suggest a bronzing gel. Laura Mercier’s bronzing gel is an essential part of my kit. And it is so easy to use; your dog could probably apply it for you. Don’t be scared by the color. It is so sheer, I can use it, and I am so pale I may as well be clear. Whether you bronze or not, you definitely will still want to pop a bit of color on your cheeks (I don’t care what anyone says, everyone looks better with at least a little blush). In the summer, my blush brush gets a vacation though; it is all about cream blush for me. I have three favorites this season, RMS (I love the color Smile), Inglot (83 is gorgeous), and MUFE’s new liquid blushes (I LOVE 14-Star Struck and 4-Walk of Shame). Just dab on the apples of your cheeks to look fresh and alive.

· Last but no least, lips. I have a few favorite things to wear depending on my mood. I love a pop of color with dewy skin and OCC Lip tar in Anime is by far the BEST pop of color I can find (we used it during the Sexy Period installation at last StyleWeek ).

If you see me in a bright lip color, there is a 98% chance it is an OCC Lip Tar. That necklace btw is Martin and Ricci.

I also love a soft wash of color, especially for a casual look. Try Chanel’s Rouge Coco Shines which are like super shiny tinted lip balms (faves are Liberte and Fetiche). And of course who doesn’t love lip gloss? If I could, I would sing from the mountain tops about my new most favorite lip gloss: Armour Beauty! God I love this stuff! They have the most insane range of colors; from super demure beige (Diana), to my favorite Fuchsia (Grace), to black (Femme Fatale) which is stunning on the fearless! This gloss isn’t too gloopy, wears super long, and is loaded with good for your lips ingredients like avocado oil. Seriously, I will own all of their colors one day (and if *ahem cough cough* they ever needed a New England spokes woman….) I digress.

I do want to take a moment and remind everyone that while bronzed skin is gorgeous, healthy bronzed skin is even more beautiful. So instead of getting that “base tan” which is aging and damaging, and will eventually leave you looking like this.

Or this.

Try one of two things, fake bake it (sunless tanner has come a long way and many salons offer fantastic spray tans), or embrace your pallor (I swear pale can be pretty).

There is no denying the loveliness of Karen Elson

No matter what, protect your skin! Skin cancer is never sexy. You don’t have to be pasty and blue to fully protect your skin. There are some brilliant lightweight sunblocks out there for everyone’s budget. These are my favorites: LaRoche Posay-SPF 60, Chanel-SPF 50, and Laura Mercier-SPF 40. All are water-like in texture, provide broad spectrum protection, and won’t break you out. No more excuses. Wear your sun block.

Now that you are gorgeous AND your skin is safe, go have a beautiful summer!

See you next week! Send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Contouring, essential element to fashion makeup

2011-05-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

I was talking to Jonathan Joseph Peters (extraordinary designer, Project Runway alumni, and Creative Director for StyleWeek Providence) the other day. We were talking about my blog and how the look we did for his show, although really amazing, is not exactly a look many women are going to sport in real life.

Photo by Tracy Aiguier
http://www.tracyaiguier.com

We both agreed that instead I should write about contouring. Contouring has played a key role in both shows I have done with Jonathan, as well as pretty much every shoot he and I have worked on together. He loves a well sculpted face. And a dramatically contoured face photographs so beautifully!

Photo by Tracy Aiguier
http://www.tracyaiguier.com
from a Martin & Ricci campaign I did with Jonathan. Kate's face is contoured within an inch of her life.

Contouring is something that when done well can absolutely transform a face; literally. You can sculpt cheekbones, strengthen a jaw line, shorten a long face or large forehead, or slender a broad nose. It is a technique that has been used pretty much since the dawn of makeup. And once you are made aware of contouring, you will start to notice it in every photo shoot, every movie (especially classic movies), and every album cover. Because stage and set lighting washes out most features, it is essential for makeup artists to contour the subjects features so that they actually stand up to the bright lights. It is why we talk about how stage makeup being so much more dramatic than every day makeup.

Ava Gardner notice the contouring along her nose, jaw and cheekbones.

Rita Hayworth contouring along her forehead, cheekbones and chin. Rita was actually Mexican. Hollywood stylists went to great lengths to make her features more European, including electrolysis to her hair line and lots of contouring.

Marilyn Monroe lots of contouring on her nose cheekbones, and hair line. This shot is from Gentleman Prefer Blondes. Jane Russell is contoured beautifully in this movie as well. Also one of the funniest movies ever.

Basically when you contour, you are deepening shadows and increasing highlight. It is the makeup equivalent of boosting the contrat to your face. Contouring is a technique that when done well, is undetectable in photos. It is at least slightly detectable in person, even when done brilliantly, so if you are not posing for pictures this is not a technique one rolls out for brunch; unless perhaps you are having brunch with the Jackson family.

No family has ever been more contoured than the Jacksons

If I want someone to have very subtle contouring (brides for instance want to look natural but must photograph perfectly), I will prime their skin. Then I will contour with a very creamy dark concealer (on anyone midtone to very light I will use a concealer made for African American skin, on African American skin I will use a black cream pigment). I will also highlight the high planes of the face with a creamy concealer or shimmer cream (if using a concealer I will go about three shades lighter than the client’s skin). Then I will stipple on a lightweight sheer foundation over the highlighting and contouring. If after applying the foundation I feel there needs to be additional contouring I will than use a cool tone, matte bronzer and add more to freshly powdered skin. The skin must be well powdered to make everything blend perfectly, otherwise it can look stripey.

Kevyn Aucoin created possibly the single greatest example of highlighting and contouring. I have yet to see a better diagram ever. Examine it thoroughly to learn classic contouring placement. Laura Mercier also has some great examples in her book The New Beauty Secrets. Her examples are great at explaining how to adjust specific features.

Kevyn Aucoin's famous contouring example from his must have book Face Forward

Laura Mercier's examples of corrective contouring from her fantastic book New Beauty Secrets

An important note, if you decide to contour your face, make a point to look at your makeup in a number of different lights, especially in bright day light. Bad contouring is never pretty. But a beautifully contoured face can be breathtaking. Once you are happy with how your makeup looks venture out knowing that you have cheekbones that are so perfectly sculpted they could cut glass! Playing with contouring is a lot of fun. At the very least it will give you a better understanding of how light and shadow play with our features.

Next week I will be writing about essential summer makeup. Send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- The Makeup Show NYC

2011-05-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Originally it was my intention to write this weeks blog about the contouring techniques that I use in pretty much everything I do with Jonathan Joseph Peters (that man loves a chiseled cheekbone! Really who doesn't!). But instead I figured I would share with the class, and write about all the amazing goodies I beheld at the The Makeup Show in New York this past weekend.

If you are unfamiliar with the Makeup Show, it is the largest PRO-ONLY beauty event in NYC! They also have events in Los Angeles, Chicago, and London, but seeing as I hail from the big apple I choose to focus upon the wonders of the New York event.

This past weekend I had the exquisite company of my friends Kate (brilliant woman who runs the fabulous cosmetic boutiques Beauty and Main), Corey Grayhorse (one of my most favorite photographers ever), and Corey's truly lovely sister Taylor (who owns the incredible Casa Viva Clothing and Lifestyle boutique in Mexico). More fun, or more lovely company would be hard to find anywhere.

Kate, Me, Corey, Taylor

We attended a Makeup Show sponsored party the night before the event, called "New York Groove: A Gallery of Makeup Art and Cocktail Party". Some of the exhibitors from the Makeup Show were presenting incredible demonstrations that evening (Make Up For Ever, OCC Makeup, Armour Beauty, and Inglot to name just a few), while DJ's James Vincent-Director of Artistry for the Makeup Show, and the Powder Group, Theo Kogan- founder of Armour Beauty as well as singer, model, and mother, and Jeremy Meek-Program director for the Powder Group played killer music, and some of the brightest talent in the makeup world got to mingle and have an all round fun time. I also had the honor encountering Dany Sanz (creator of Make Up For Ever) at this party. I have to admit, the last time I was so gob smacked was when I got to meet Kevyn Aucoin many many years ago. She is beautiful, and brilliant, exactly as one would expect! Needless to say it was a perfect beginning to the weekend.

The MUFE team, including Dany Sanz!! And their AMAZING models

The Armour Beauty Model at New York Groove, makeup by Theo Kogan

The next morning we attended the main event at the Metropolitan Pavilion on West 18th St. To describe it as mobbed would be an understatement. It was wall to wall professional beauty junkies. I saw quite a few familiar faces and made some new friends. Allow me to share with you a few of the booths that really knocked my socks off and left me wanting more;

Hakuhodo Brushes -I cannot emphasize this enough, you can have the most exquisite makeup in the world, but without the right tools you will never achieve your true artistry potential. On the flip side you can have the most substandard product in the world, but with beautiful brushes you will be able to create perfection. Hakuhodo brushes are the most beautifully crafted brushes I have ever encountered; Period. Top of the mountain. They do not get better. They are the "Stradivarius" of brushes. Instead of being cut to shape like all other brushes they sculpted into shape leaving the hair intact. I spent a LOT of money at this booth and will gladly spend much more in the future. Their quality almost leaves me speechless. And the people running the booth were so knowledgeable and helpful. I am in fact, in love...

OCC Makeup- I LOVE OCC. If you see a bold lip color on me (like in the picture above...), it is almost a sure bet that it is one of their Lip Tars. OCC was created by David Klasfeld in 2004.He has created some of the most vivid powder pigments, most innovative textures (try the Lip Tars and tell me they aren't revolutionary), the most superior air brush products on the market, and the hands down BEST vegan makeup brushes ever. This line is beyond exceptional and 100% vegan. For those of you who are working makeup artists, even if you are not vegan, you may have a vegan client and it is incredibly appreciated when you present them the option of 100% vegan products. And even if you aren't vegan and plan on never having vegan clients, or clients at all for that matter, OCC is some of the coolest makeup and tools you can find anywhere!. I already own 2 complete brush sets, almost the complete collection of pigments and lip tars, and more than a couple of their fantastic nail polishes, but I still managed to find two pigments I didn't already own and HAD to have:"Flawed" (one of the prettiest golds ever)and "Bitmap" (a perfect mossy green with a shimmer) ...

Armour Beauty- My new favorite lip glosses! They are paraben free, and loaded with wonderful things like grape seek extract, and avocado oil. They go on like a dream. They come in some of the coolest colors ever. And they were created by Theo Kogan who is one of those women who is so cool and beautiful that you want to hate her, but she is so damn lovely and down to earth, all you can really do is wish you were her best friend. I brought home "After Hours" "Grace" and "Kashmir" and I suspect my collection will be growing quite rapidly.I am already kicking myself for not grabbing "Ann Margaret" "Barracuda" "Dreaming" and "Diana" while I was there...

RMS Beauty- RMS Beauty are my new favorite finger paints! It is a small line of beautifully crafted simple glass pots of lusciously creamy blushes, concealers, luminizers, and glosses. All created by celebrity makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift. Ms. Swift is probably most famous for being Gisele Bundchen's makeup artist of choice, she is also passionate about creating pure, healthy, organic, makeup that is actually good for your skin. My friend Kate had raved to me about this line for a while (in fact you will soon be able to find it at Beauty and Main). I had played with a few of her products, and loved them immediately. I rarely wear any makeup when I am not working, but still would like to look nice when going to the market or walking my dogs. These are the perfect products for real women who want to look lovely but want to put beautiful healthy ingredients on their skin, and don't want to feel "made up". I love the lip2cheek in "Smile" as that perfect little something to carry in your purse when you just need to feel pretty. I am also obsessed with her Raw Coconut Cream. This stuff will melt through layers of makeup (even waterproof makeup and stage makeup) effortlessly and tissue off leaving your skin soft and happy. I would buy this stuff by the tub.

I would also like to mention Inglot and Make Up For Ever. We didn't get to play at their booths as they were flooded with makeup artists dying to buy one of everything (who can blame them?). I have been a regular at the MUFE boutique for years, and had the pleasure of spending some time at the AMAZING new Inglot studio in Chelsea this weekend. I love both companies products tremendously and wanted to share that. MUFE and Inglot are both available now online, which hasn't always been the case. So now I don't have to take a road trip when I am craving Star Powder, or the perfect Sea Foam colored nail polish (969 if you're wondering)!

I had a wonderful time at the Makeup Show. Hopefully next year I can stay for the whole event and attend some of their workshops.Really it is something I will look forward to every year for a long time to come.Try some or all of the products I have mentioned. And tune in next week for the contouring blog I promised!

Send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog-Foundation: Every Face's Best Friend

2011-05-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

Daniela Corte’s models arrived to the show already styled (and indeed they were lovely) so instead of writing about someone else’s makeup I decided this week that I would write about one of the most important, and misunderstood aspects of makeup: FOUNDATION!!!

Every time I meet with a new client, I am told that they hate foundation. They will then also tell me about how they use a ton of concealer, and that they wish their skin looked more even. But they do not want to wear foundation.

That is normally when I have to start my “foundation has come a long way” speech. Most women seem to think that foundation is still the pepto bismol pink paste that their grandmothers wore that left a thick crusty border along many their jaw lines. Bad foundation, poorly applied foundation may still be that. But rest assured foundation has come a long long way.

First of all, let’s address what foundation is designed to do. Foundation is designed to even out skin tone. Not cover it up, but to even it out. If you have a blemish or dark under eye circles, you would cover them with concealer, not foundation. This misconception is why I see women with very nice skin wearing full coverage foundation in an attempt to cover a blemish or two. It is also why I see women who have blotchy skin but are fearful of foundation wearing way too much concealer instead of simply wearing a beautiful medium to full coverage foundation.

As I stated in my opening, foundation has come a very long way in that past 15 years. Since our StyleWeek Providence color sponsor for January was Laura Mercier I will use Laura’s foundations for my examples. I am including photos of me wearing each formula with a primer. These photos are unretouched. They are taken in the same natural light, on the same day at approximately the same time. No concealer or powder is applied in any of these pictures, just primer and foundation. My skin will in no way appear perfect. But you will get a more clear appreciation of what foundation does, and what it simply cannot do. You may also find a new appreciation for concealer. After looking at these pictures lord knows, I love concealer a lot more.

Ideally your foundation should match your skin perfectly. If your body is much more tan than your face you may want to go a shade deeper. However, this will also mean that you would need to apply foundation to your entire face and not just uneven areas. Another option is to match your skin and balance things out with bronzer. Foundation that is too light can often appear “goth” and too dark does require a good deal of finesse. So for most people I suggest taking the goldilocks approach and aim for just right.

For people with fairly even toned skin who need just a slight improvement or people who are sincerely foundation-phobic tinted moisturizer is a nice start. Laura’s tinted moisturizer is a very lightweight foundation (I am convinced they named it tinted moisturizer because they didn’t want to say “foundation” and scare off many prospective clients). It is the easiest formula to apply. It can be applied with fingers or with a sponge. It doesn’t replace skin care (don’t let the term “moisturizer fool you) instead it provides a sheer veil of coverage that helps to make skin appear smooth and even. There is also the bonus of having a spf 20 to protect your skin. Tinted moisturizer will not however cover real blotchiness or discoloration.

Nude Tinted Moisturizer with Primer

For those of us who need a little more coverage a liquid foundation is going to be just what the makeup artist ordered. I find most women are best off with a medium coverage foundation. Laura makes a few formulas that fit in this category. The moisturizing foundation and oil free foundation both leave a semi matte finish, cover most tonal issues, and photograph beautifully. These are best applied with a sponge over a primer (more about primer in a bit). Fingers and brushes with this kind of product tend to leave too heavy a finish.

Warm Ivory Moisturizing Foundation with Hydrating Primer

Another medium coverage foundation formula and possibly my personal favorite of Laura’s formulas is the Crème smooth foundation. This is an anti-aging formula made to diffuse the appearance of fine lines while evening out skin tone and is the longest wearing in my experience. This also looks best over a primer. However this one is made to go on with fingers. This leaves a soft finish, not quite matte, not quite dewy and photographs beautifully. Not a formula I would recommend for oily skin types or people concerned with shine, but it is a dream for us dry skin girls.

Warm Ivory Creme Smooth Foundation with Hydrating Primer

Now there are times when someone wants their skin to be 100% flawless. Whether it is a photo op, a high school reunion, or just Tuesday; this is when a full coverage foundation is in order. This is also when many of my clients stop cold in their tracks expecting me to pull out a trowel and start piling makeup on their faces. I cannot emphasize this enough, full coverage foundations are brilliant when applied properly, nad you do not need to be Michelangelo to accomplish this. Laura’s full coverage foundation is her Silk Crème foundation. It is oil free and had a velvety radiant finish. It is the formula I use the most when shooting pin up photography. A pea sized amount is all that is needed to get the job done. Too apply a full coverage foundation properly, dab a bit onto an area of the face with your fingers and buff it into the skin with a sponge. Work small areas at a time and just keep buffing.

Rose Ivory Silk Creme Foundation with Hydrating Primer

A few things to consider when choosing a foundation, almost all foundations look better with a primer underneath. Primer is NOT just another step that someone is trying to sell you. It creates a barrier between your skincare and your makeup. It gives skin a smoother appearance minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. It also increases the duration of wear of your foundation. I personally prefer primers with little to no silicone. I find silicone based primers photograph beautifully but just don’t wear for extended periods very well. I also find that many people break out when using a silicone based primer. This is all a matter of preference so when in doubt experiment. Most counters and beauty stores will gladly give you samples. If you know you are the kind of person who just is not going to wear a primer there are some formulas that work very nicely as stand alone products. The tinted moisturizer is a good example. I also like the Vitalumiere Aqua from Chanel without a primer.

I also think that most women benefit from having a wardrobe of foundations. Just like stiletto pumps are not appropriate for all situations, neither are all foundations. A tinted moisturizer is more than enough for most of us at brunch or the supermarket. But most of us would like to look a little closer to flawless when having a job interview or attending a cocktail function. It’s never a bad idea to have a few options. Play with foundation. Play with textures. See how a dramatic eye changes when worn with matte skin versus dewy skin.

Try to remember that makeup is fun. It doesn’t need to be work. It is a beautiful way to change your look without a big financial commitment. You can buy a whole new luxury makeup wardrobe including brushes for $500. That won’t buy most of us a designer dress, let alone a wardrobe. And you can wear that makeup every day! The best part is if you don’t like how something looks; you can always wash it off and try again. Rediscover your love for playing with makeup.

Next week I will be talking about how to contour. Send your questions and topic requests to Jessica@styleweekprovidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Joseph Aaron Segal

2011-05-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

Joseph Aaron Segal creates really amazing garments. He specializes in knitwear and has the uncanny ability to design the most one of a kind special clothing with a big dash of whimsy. He used bold daring color palettes, and has quite a dynamic creative voice. I find this all quite amusing because Joseph is very reserved and has the gentlest presence. He clearly lets his work speak for him. He and I went back and forth quite a bit in attempting to create the ideal look for his runway show. Coming up with a look strong enough to stand with his designs that wouldn’t compete with the clothing can be quite a challenge. We eventually decided on a very flushed cheek that carried up onto the brow bone and across the bridge of the nose. With a bright flat white around the eye and a creamy white glossy lip.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon
www.danielgagnonphoto.com

Photo by Heidi Finn
http://heidifinnphotography.com/

Now obviously the way we executed this look on the runway is not exactly a classic day look. But it IS a look that with a few teensy tweaks can be completely wearable for everyone. This is something I really want to emphasize. So often we look at images from runway shows and editorial shoots; and while we may love the images, we write them off as to out there to be wearable. We are missing out on a great opportunity. Take the feel of a look, and the colors, and translate them into something you would love wearing! This look is a perfect example.

Start by priming your skin with foundation primer. Then apply the lightest foundation you feel comfortable wearing. Most women are beautiful in a tinted moisturizer.
Conceal any blemishes with a secret camouflage, and dark circles with a concealer.
Set complexion with a loose translucent powder using a puff.
Prime your eye lids with eye shadow primer. Tight line the lash line with a dark blue cake liner. And then dust a flat white shadow on the lid concentrating on the lash line and blending it softly up to the crease.
Curl eye lashes and apply a coat on lengthening mascara.
Groom brows with a brow powder and brush.
Now apply Rose Bloom blush on the apples of the cheeks and blend out into the hair line. Be generous. This look is all about a beautiful flushed cheek. Everything else is soft and fresh.
Line your lips very softly with a lip pencil that matches your lip color, most women will used Naked or Hazelnut Tea.
Apply a generous coat of Platinum lip gloss.

This look is really so pretty, and so fresh. And the only thing that you are doing different from the show is the placement of the blush. Same colors as the show just a different way of seeing them. Be creative. Be bold. Be adventurous. And playing with this one is a very safe adventure. It is like riding the teacups not the Matterhorn.

Next weeks blog is going to be all about foundation, it’s application, and its numerous textures.

Send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Andrea Valentini

2011-04-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

If there is one makeup look that people continually ask me to replicate from StyleWeek in January, it is easily Andrea Valentini’s. Andrea had a very specific look she wanted for her models. She wanted a strong smoky eye; but much more rock n roll than the other smoky eyes we did that week. This is in my humble opinion, the sexiest of the smoky eyes we did for the week. There were many beautiful and exotic smoky eyes during StyleWeek. This one just had such a “bad girl” feel to it. The woman who wears this look is in complete control. This woman is fearless. She owns any room she enters. This is definitely not a look for the meek or the timid.

Courtesy of Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Andrea is already a very established accessory designer (I personally covet more than a few of her handbags). This was her first showing of her apparel; and she pulled out all the stops. She combined incredibly luxurious fabrics with these edgy almost primitive touches. So the whole show was kind of seductively savage.

During preparation for the show, the models kept commenting on how sexy they felt. I even got emails from models from other shows asking how to create this look at home. I love it when something comes together perfectly and Andrea’s show is definitely one of those special times where everything did.

This is a very easy look to apply, but can be messy so it is wise to keep some cotton swabs and eye makeup remover close at hand for fallout.

Courtesy of Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

1. With a crème shadow brush apply eye base lash to brow.

2. Tightline top and bottom lash line in black ebony cake liner using an activator.

3. Using crème detail brush place the black caviar liner lash to crease and with a wet dry liner brush along the lower lash line, including inner rim.

4. Place noir shadow across the lid and along the lower lash line.

5. Put a shimmery nude shadow on the brow bone and inner corner of the eyes.

6. Buff the edges of the black shadow with a soft clean finishing eye brush along the lash line and into the crease.

7. Curl lashes apply two coats of black mascara to top and bottom lashes.

8. Prime the skin with foundation primer and then even out the skin with appropriate foundation. For the show we used Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer. Cover and spots or dark circles with Secret Camouflage and Secret Concealer, using a Camouflage brush. Set t-zone only with Universal Setting Powder and a fan brush.

9. Use a nude-nutty colored crème blush on the contours of the cheeks. Apply this lightly, Crème Cheek Colour brush makes this easier.

10. Dab just a touch of foundation to the lips to tone down natural lip color. Outline with a nude lipliner like Naked. Then last but not least apply a generous coat of Sparkling Glace.

As I mentioned this is not a makeup look for a shy violet. This is when you want to let your inner rock star shine. Save this look for when you want to be the center of attention.

Courtesy of Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Next week I will write about Joseph Aaron Segal and his show stopping knit wear!

Send your questions and requests to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Jessica Abernethy

2011-04-18T16:59:00.000-07:00

Jessica Abernethy is easily one of my favorite designers. I love her silhouettes, her color palettes, and most especially her attention to detail. She is meticulous. I love her clothes!

She also has easily given me my all time favorite makeup request for a look for a show. She sent me an email requesting “Winter Safari Zsa Zsa Gabor”. I literally squealed when I saw that. Visions of Green Acres (I know that was Eva) mixed with Dr. Zhivago (Julie Christie) danced in my head. I was so excited to start working on her look. Heck I am excited to work on her look for August and I don’t even know what she wants yet! Jessica looks at the world through eyes I wouldn’t mind sharing. I always fall in love with her visions. And I am honored that I get to contribute to that vision.

Jessica and I met up to play with colors in person. We came up with a classic Hollywood defined smoky eye, and a deep sultry red lip. I was so thrilled with how this look translated onto the models. Their hair was rolled into soft curls piled on top of their head and then wrapped in white turban-like head wraps. The hair team really hit it out of the park. The clothes were soft and feminine but tailored perfectly. The final product was absolutely gorgeous.

by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

This look is gorgeous on the runway but also translates beautifully in real life. It is a strong day look for some of us, and a dramatic evening look for others. But it is completely wearable for everyone! You just can’t beat old Hollywood glamour.

by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

1. Mix together appropriate eye base with Platinum Crème Metallic. Apply evenly lash to brow.

2. Place the lightest color from the Orchid Mosaic from lash to brow with a soft eye shadow brush.

3. Tight line the lash line with Black Cake Liner.

4. Define the lash line and outer corner of the eye with Deep Night shadow. Using the same shadow line the lower lash line with a smudge brush.

5. Prime skin. Even out complexion with foundation, and secret camouflage. Set with loose setting powder with puff.

6. Conceal under eyes, and set with Secret Brightening powder.

7. Define brows with brow powder keeping the arch soft and round.

8. Place Violet Orchid blush on apples of Cheeks. Then swirl a finishing brush into Orchid Mosaic and dust on the high points on the face.

9. Apply false lashes, and a generous coat of mascara top and bottom.

10. Line and fill the lips with Very Cherry pencil. Then apply Bing Cherry Lip Color to the lips.

Bing Cherry is one of my most favorite lip colors ever. It is one of the most universally wearable lipsticks ever. Definitely try this lip color out.

by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Next week I will be writing about Andrea Valentini’s rocker chic smoky eye!

Send any questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Philip Sawyer

2011-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

I first met Anh Vu Sawyer (wife and creative voice of Philip Sawyer) when she came to my home to discuss the makeup look for the StyleWeek show. She is easily one of the loveliest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. We had an instant rapport, and my dogs adored her (and that is a very big deal to me). She is the kind of person you can find yourself losing time with chatting without ever running out of things to discuss. The downside to this is as I have mentioned in previous blogs I put more pressure on myself when I care about the people I am working for. The pressure increases when it is someone I admire like Anh. Anh is a really special lady; the kind of person who lights up a room just by entering it. She is an accomplished author, as well as designer. It was really important to me to make sure that her look was just what she wanted.

She asked for a stronger more avant guard look; bold and clean, but without overshadowing the clothes. The look that we came up with was very minimal: matte skin, with a defined brow and then a straight line of black under the eyes out to the temples, and a shimmering sequin blue under the eyes and across the tops of the cheek bones.

At the last minute Anh decided she wanted a pink lip for the female models. And so we added Rosewater with Rose glace. It actually softened the look some which made it mesh nicely with Anh’s very feminine sillohuettes.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

I figured since this look is not exactly real world friendly, but the colors are, that I would show an adaptation of this look for real life. I used all the same colors but just moved them around to be more wearable for the average person.

Real Life version puts the color on the lid instead of the cheekbones, and a soft flushed cheek

Start by prepping the eyes with an eye shadow base lash to brow.
Then line the upper lash line with black cake liner.
Cover the lid in a shimmery nude shadow.
Put Topaz shadow into the crease.
Then work Lapis sequin along the lash line, outer corners and into the crease.
Prime the skin and even out with foundation and concealer.
Set complexion with loose setting powder and a puff.
Two coats of black mascara applied to the top lashes and one then applied to the bottom lashes.
Tender Mauve blush applied to the apples of the cheeks (if you have a darker complexion try Violet Orchid).
Define the brows and fill in any gaps.
Line the lips with Potpourri lip liner, then apply Rosewater stick gloss, and Rose glace.

This is a perfect example of how you can take an intense runway look and adjust it to something you can wear to the office or dinner. Look to the runway for color inspiration. Learn to experiment with techniques. But do it in a way that keeps you from getting a little too Gaga for the workplace.

Next week I will talk about Jessica Abernethy’s ultra glamorous makeup. Send your questions to Jessica@styleweekprovidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog-Jennifer Greeke, Harpy

2011-04-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

I first met Jennifer Greeke at the photoshoot StyleWeek Providence had arranged with RI monthly with a number of the designers. I must have walked by her about 4 times before I realized she wasn’t one of the models and was actually a designer. She is stunningly pretty, with sandy blonde hair and a flawless bone structure. Jennifer has a background in film costume departments, and an amazing eye for detail. Her designs are incredibly feminine while remaining bold and strong. Jennifer's collection consists of beautiful silhouettes with flame-like patterns and clean bright lines. One of the most memorable dresses for me was a dazzling white cocktail dress with black netting draped across it, a perfect blend of ladylike grace with a deconstructed edginess.

photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

When it came to developing a makeup look for her show she wanted something that worked with her designs but wouldn’t compete with them. The inspiration images she sent me were classic Hollywood glamour. We developed a look that was universally flattering on every woman; which makes it extra exciting to share today, because it is one of the most real-life wearable looks shown that week. It is a look that works on all skin tones, and is easy to apply even for the novice.

photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Photo By Hilary Block
http://hilarybphotography.com/

Start by applying a light layer of eye shadow primer lash line to brow. Using a brush will give a much smoother application.
Apply a matte eye shadow that compliments your skin tone. Fair skin looks lovely in Laura’s Buttercream, Mid tone skin should try Sesame, deeper tones will likely look great in Café Au Lait.
Using a black cake liner tightline the upper lash line. Pack the liner in from above and underneath the lashes.
Work a shimmery bronze shadow into the crease and just above.
Using a pointed eye liner brush and your black cake liner line the upper lash line a bit more and create a bit of a wing for a “cat eye” effect. Light sketching motions will create a smoother line than attempting to create just a single solid line.
Curl lashes (it really does make a big difference). Apply false lashes and a coat black mascara top and bottom lashes.
Prime your skin with a foundation primer, than apply a medium coverage foundation. Any spots that show through can be concealed with a concealer.
Set complexion with a loose setting powder and a puff.
Apply a fresh rosy blush light to medium tones should try Rose Bloom, deeper tones skin should give Spiced Cider a try or Pink Rose Quad.
Fill in and groom brows. They should be soft but defined.

Photo by Hilary Block
http://hilarybphotography.com/

Line lips and fill in with a Ruby pencil and then apply a rich coat of red lipstick. True red looks beautiful on all skin tones. You can vary intensity with the texture of the color, go sheer for a softer look like Sweet Cherry, go creamy to replicate the look from the show with Truly Red, and if you are feeling saucy try Scarlet Lip stain which is extra vibrant.

Like I mentioned this look is universally wearable. Depending on your chosen outfit and accessories this look can very easily be worn with anything from a party dress to a pair of jeans and a sweater. I personally think all women should venture into the world of red lipstick every now and then. Treat it like an accessory and not makeup. Let your lips be a bright jewel for your face!

Jennifer’s show was a pleasure to watch and to be a part of. I am so excited to see what she has in store for us this summer!

Next week I will be telling you all about Phillip Sawyer’s show. Send your questions and requests to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog-Kelly Eident, I'm Your Present

2011-03-28T16:58:00.000-07:00

This was the second show I have done with Kelly Eident. Kelly’s “I’m Your Present” line has quite a cult following. It also has an undeniable sweetness and sense of whimsy that is really fun to create makeup looks for. Kelly is remarkably easy to work with. So easy that I sometimes find myself second guessing my creations for her.

She will give me a description of what she is looking for, it is always very clear. She will often send a couple inspiration images, and then it is in my hands. I will come up with something. Take a few photos of the look I design and send them to her. And that’s it. It’s that easy. See what I mean? Nothing runs that smoothly. But Kelly’s shows do. She is very quiet. And she always seems to have the sweetest smile on her face. She is young but looks even younger, I would bet people underestimate her often. Perhaps that is why I am always so surprised of the smoothness of her shows. That kind of smoothness typically only comes from decades of experience. Clearly don’t let the whimsy and sweetness fool you, she is a professional.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

The look for this year was one that I was beyond excited to execute. She asked for an icy look. Her clothes had kind of Czarist Russian touch, mixed with a Scandinavian element, and a whole lot of magic. The only specific requests I was given were icy without being blue or silvery (which can be tougher than it sounds I discovered), and there needed to be liner and false eyelashes. A request I am always more than happy to honor.

This look is really super fun to apply and if a full face of shimmer is too much for your real life, try just the eyes or just the cheeks sometime. It is just so pretty, and kind of feels like fingerpaints for grown ups (though how grown up I may be is purely subjective).

Original Trial Look

For much of this look we used Laura Merciers shimmer blocks. We used the original on the eyes and the pink on the rest of the face.

Start by applying black cake eyeliner into the top lash line.
Then using a cream eye shadow brush (it will give you a smoother more sheer finish than a finger) apply a cream colored metallic cream eye shadow. For the show we used Laura Mercier Platinum crème metallic (a must have for every girls kit) lash to brow.
Take the lightest color in the original shimmer block and with an eye shadow brush dust over the platinum lash to brow.
Using a Black Gold Pencil line the upper and lower lash line, staying as close to the lashes as possible.
Then take a black gold eyeshadow and a smudge brush and smudge that into the eyeliner.
Blend the gold color from the original shimmer block into the crease of the eye.
Prime the skin with foundation primer. Then even out the complexion with foundation and concealer. Set complexion thoroughly with loose setting powder and a puff.
Fill in the eye brows and set with brow gel. Perfect time to try everything you learned from last weeks brow blog.
Curl eye lashes, apply a good thick coat of black mascara, and apply as dramatic of fake eye lashes as you are brave enough to wear.
Now swirl a finishing brush into your pink mosaic and buff into the cheeks. The more you buff the brush around the more sheen you will get. Don’t be shy.
For the show we applied lip balm to the models lips and then dusted the darkest pink in the pink mosaic onto their lips with a brush. For real life try either Rose Glace or Pixie Lip Colour.

I love this look. The models were beautiful. If pink is too sweet for you try a peach mosaic. If your skin is darker toned you can also try the golden mosaic. This look is particularly fun for any evening where you may be going out and wearing a party dress.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Next week I will tell you about Jennifer Greeke’s Harpy collection and her classic movie star makeup.

Send your questions to Jessica@styleweekprovidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog-Special Request Blog Brows

2011-03-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

Wednesday of StyleWeek was our American Heart Association Fundraising Show The "Go Red Challenge". It was an inspirational evening where survivors of heart disease modeled gowns designed by StyleWeek’s Designers. For this special evening, the makeup team’s only directions were to make these amazing women feel beautiful as they walked down the runway. And they did a brilliant job! It was an honor to be part of the evening, and I look forward to being part of future fundraisers.

Courtesy of Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

This however did leave me with a bit of a quandary as to what this week’s blog should be about. So I posted on facebook and twitter asking for requests. The first real request I received was quickly approved by a number of other readers, and that was for a blog about brows. Brows it is!

A wise makeup artist friend of mine said once “If the eyes are the windows to the soul, than our brows are the drapes.” I have quoted this many times. Anyone who has worked with me has heard me say it often. And everyone knows a room looks unfinished without window dressings, so does a face.

I whole heartedly believe that how one chooses to groom their brows is a personal choice. But just like we know that an “I’m With Stupid” t-shirt is not haute couture, we know a bad brow when we see one.

The over done 90's brow

Personally, I would rather see a completely natural untouched, and perhaps unruly brow, than the over-tweezed pencil thin brows of the nineties, or even worse, the heartbreakingly over done brow that bears more of a resemblance to a sperm than an eyebrow.

One of the scariest brows ever

So what makes a good brow? Thick or thin, round or angled, if you follow a basic formula, everything else is just preference.

The formula is simple; first draw a line up from your nostril straight toward your forehead. This is the starting point for your brow. Then if you draw a line starting at your nostril through your pupil and extending out, that is where your arch begins. Finally draw a line from your nostril out toward your temple. The end of your brow will meet with this line. Your brow should be fullest at the beginning of the brow and then taper to a point at the end.

As far as which shape is right for you; before you whip out the tweezers and wax, grab an eye liner pencil and a mirror. Yup eye LINER pencil. Brow pencils are perfect for filling in your brows but for this you want the softness and pigment of an eye liner. If you have dark brows grab a beige or white pencil. If you are light haired go for a darker colored pencil. Have some makeup remover close by, and just start playing with shapes using the above formula. Once you have found your chosen brow shape, either start plucking or if it calls for an overhaul you may need to bring in a professional.

Classic Brow Shape

Rounded Brow Shape

*WARNING* If the person about to shape your brows has bad brows themselves, flee!

The likelihood that their bad brows will be contagious is pretty significant.

Of course many of us have already wreaked havoc on our brows and may have to grapple with the unpleasant growing back in period. If your brows are over-plucked and you need to endure regrowth, the easiest way is to artfully fill in what little brow you do have, and just pluck stragglers. Though, for many, this is easier said than done. One of the most important things to do is to stay clear of magnifying mirrors. Tweeze only the most flagrant offenders, and leave the rest alone. The best way to fill in your brows (something I have to do daily, as I have almost no brows at all, and what little I have are quite blonde) is to create and fill in your brow shape with a brow pencil, and yes this time use a BROW pencil (I like Laura Mercier, Kevyn Aucoin, and Nars). Do this with light sketching motions. Short strokes will mimic hair; it is the best way to avoid that “drawn on” look. Pick a color about a shade lighter than your hair if you are light skinned, so your brows don’t appear too heavy. You can stop here and set with a clear brow gel (I REALLY don’t care for tinted brow gel, too much risk for gloopiness). For many of us this is plenty.

If you want to have an even more polished look; after you fill in with pencil, go over the brow with a brow powder. This gives a more dramatic elegant look that works very nicely with a smoky eye. It also adds balance to a nude face with a strong red lip. After filling in with the powder, again set with clear brow gel.

I hope this helps those who feel “brow challenged”. The most important thing to remember is all mistakes are fixable. Nothing is forever. And it is only makeup.

Have fun designing the drapes, for those windows!

Next week, I will tell you all about the frosty beauty behind Kelly Eident and her “I’m Your Present” show.

Send you questions and requests to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Samuel Vartan

2011-03-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

Samuel Vartan is always a blast to work with. He has a specific woman for whom he creates his designs. She is strong and sensual and mysterious. I totally envision a Bond girl wearing his clothes. Some knockout woman who no one can take their eyes off of, who also happens to be an assassin and maybe a nuclear physicist. We originally had talked about doing a very beachy bronzy look for his show.

Original Bronzy Look

But his collection evolved into something that required a more urban edge; it is called “Dark City” for heavens sake. Beachy just wasn’t going to be right. He decided that he wanted the models to be very strong and sexy but almost gothic in appearance; maybe a little more vampire Bond girl.

Dark City Look

His shows are always a lot of fun because the models always seem so excited to walk for him, and they are always gorgeous! There is always a great energy back stage, and everyone has so much fun making it all come together.

Samuel’s look definitely is not for the meek, and probably NSFW (unless maybe you ARE a Bond girl), but if ever there is an evening that you want to go out and be the most gorgeous, and intimidating woman in the room, this is probably the look to sport.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Gagnon
www.danielgagnonphoto.com

Start by prepping the eye lid with a lighter eye shadow base applied lash to brow. Using a water activated cake liner apply black liner to the upper and lower lash line in between the eye lashes. Then using a very creamy black pencil line the lower lash line extending the line out into a wing. By following the natural lash line of the lower lashes your winged line will be even and balanced. Then, using the same black pencil and a cream shadow brush, color in the upper lid up to the crease, blending with the brush for an even finish. Extend the shape out just slightly to create a more almond shaped eye. Then, pack on a shimmering black eye shadow into the liner on the lid and on the lower lash line. Buff the shadow so it has a sheen to it, without appearing too sparkly. Using a soft fluffy shadow brush place a shimmery purple shadow on the lid toward the inner corners. Take a flat black shadow and smoke it along the top and bottom lash line and along the crease. And then highlight the brow bone with a white shadow. At this point clean up any fallout that may have occurred on the cheeks and prime the skin with a foundation primer. Even out the skin with a foundation that matches perfectly, and conceal any spots and dark circles. Then using a foundation about two shades lighter, highlight the tops of the cheekbones, the center of the forehead, the length of the nose, and the cupids bow. Set entire face with a colorless loose setting powder using a fan brush. If additional highlighting is desired, dust some brightening powder (not shimmer) on the high planes of the face. Contour the cheekbones with a cool plummy tone (for the show we actually used an eye shadow color), if that is too intense, try a plum based blush instead. Curl the lashes, apply two coats of mascara to the top and bottom lashes. Apply false lashes; go for a shape that sweeps out to the side some. The lip I created for this show was achieved by lining the lips with black pencil, blending it well with a lip brush and then filling in the center of the lips with a true red lip color. Again, this may be bold for some, if that is the case try just a deep red hue instead.

There really is something so empowering about this look. The models even commented about on how excited they were to wear this, and how sexy they felt in it. True beauty and power come from within, but a smoldering, smoky eye certainly couldn’t hurt in inspiring that beauty and power to shine a little brighter.

Hope you had fun playing with this look. Please send all your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog-Karen Beebe's "Lucille" collection

2011-03-07T10:25:00.000-08:00

This was my second show with Karen. She is a really cool woman with great vision. And she had a very specific look in mind for this show. This was one of our more theatrical looks, with really strong eyes and lips. It was really cool to see something so striking against Karen’s soft romantic designs.

Photo By Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Something this bold may be a tad intense in real life. But it is very easily softened to wear in the real world. For the show we took the look to extremes; copper shadow solid up to the brow, no blush, strong red lip, dark defined brow. In today’s breakdown I am going to write out how to make this look wearable for every day.

Start by applying Burnished Copper crème metallic shadow lash to crease using a crème shadow brush. While the shadow is still creamy, pack on Copper sequin eye shadow, pushing it into the crème. Using a clean shadow finishing brush, buff the lid and crease to create a softer finish. Curl your lashes and apply two coats of thickening mascara. Even out the skin with a tinted moisturizer (illuminating tinted moisturizer would be really pretty with this look), and conceal any spots and under eye circles. Instead of no blush like what we did for the show, apply a nude cream blush like Praline onto the apples and along the contours of the cheeks. Give a light dusting of translucent powder to the entire face just to set the makeup, but not too much as to make the skin look matte. Then for the lips, either go with the Truly Red lip color that we used, which I will always love; and wear it, boldly and confidently. Or if you are feeling a little more low key use a sheer lip color that will make your lips look like you just ate cherries. I love Laura’s new Gel lip colors for this, and Sweet Cherry couldn’t be more perfect. You don’t need to be a runway model to make this look work. These colors are super wearable for most skin tones. And the techniques used can easily be adapted to other color families as well.

Photo By Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

The most important thing that we all need to remember about makeup is that it is okay to play. Most of us begged our moms to let us wear it when we were little girls. Then somewhere along the way many of us decided that makeup was obligatory work and we forgot how wonderful it can make us feel. Some evening when you are staying in, pull out the box where you keep all the colors that you never use, pour yourself a cocktail, and play. It washes off. There is no scary commitment. You may discover that you look brilliant in red lipstick, or that you totally can rock a smoky eye. But you never know unless you try. And playing with makeup is a risk any of us can take. And all of us should.

Have fun, play dress up, and send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Next week I will write about the intensely sexy look from Samuel Vartan’s show.

Monday Beauty Blog-Maria Del Carmen Mercado

2011-02-28T12:44:00.000-08:00

I first met Maria Del Carmen Mercado at the designer photoshoot that StyleWeek did for Rhode Island Monthly. She and I had an instant rapport. Maria is sweet, sensitive, and hilarious. She had a very clear vision for the hair for her show, but not as clear a vision for the makeup. She is not one to wear a lot of makeup, but she knew she wanted something bold for her show.

Her look actually had a number of incarnations. Designing makeup looks is like picking out an outfit for an important event. You either hit the nail on the head with the first try, or you go through many attempts to get it just right. This was more like the latter. We both agreed that the look needed to be finished off with a bright spicy red lip color. But the rest of the look took a bit more tinkering to get perfect.

The first look I came up with was kind of a graphic flamenco inspired eye and little to no eye shadow. While it was a cool look, it was not what she had in mind. At the time I had not seen her designs. Knowing what I know now, I don’t think have worked with her dresses at all. So we went back to the drawing board.

first draft eye

Then I pulled together a look similar to what we did for the Rhode Island Monthly shoot. At the shoot Maria’s model was this fabulous woman Elsa from Cape Verde. Elsa has a gorgeous dark golden complexion. The look she had involved both bright and deep shades of blue. When I sent Maria the images of that look on me (I do most of my test runs on myself or an assistant, and I am very very pale), she thought the look was too much. I must admit, it was pretty intense.

We decided that we needed a look that would look great from the stage but not be too intense on the models regardless of their coloring.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Photo by Todd Lee
http://toddleephotography.smugmug.com/

We came up with a beautiful bronze, softly smoky eye. Softer than some of the other smoky eyes that walked the runway during the week, but with a much bolder lip. A completely different flavor of beautiful.

This is actually a pretty easy look to replicate, and would be a beautiful look for this summer!

Start by prepping lids with an eye shadow base that matches your skin tone.
Then using a flat eye liner brush and black cake eye liner, line the upper lash line by nestling the liner in between that lashes.
Saturate the entire lid with a bronze eye shadow up to the crease and along the lower lash line.
Then with a deep, matte, brown shadow smudge along the top and bottom lash line and into the crease.
Curl the lashes and apply a thick coat of black mascara.
Even out the complexion with a lightweight foundation.
Cover any blemishes and under-eye circles with concealer.
Pat the apples of the cheeks with cream blush, for Maria’s show I used Blaze.
Set the whole face with loose setting powder. Then using a shimmer block and a finishing brush highlight the tops of the cheekbones, temples, and brow bones.
Line and fill in lips with a true red lip pencil.
Then color lips with a bright red lip color. I used Laura Mercier’s Scarlet Lip Stain.

This shade of red can be intimidating for some women. If it is the brightness that is intimidates you, try using a brown pencil to tone down the intensity of the color. If the red itself is intimidating than try either a more brown based red or a very sheer red.

I like to wear a red lipstick more like an accessory. Keep jewelry to a minimum and hair pulled back. Red lipstick screams sexy, confident, and fearless.

Definitely play with this look, especially as the cold gray weather persists. Sometimes a splash of red is all you need to brighten up a dreary day.

Maria’s show involved beautifully draped hand dyed silk dresses and head scarves. In her designs the models were a lovely balance of soft romance, and powerful beauty. It really was a wonderful show. Maria is a blast to work with, and I loved helping make her first StyleWeek Providence show a memorable one. I am sure we will be seeing great things from her in the future!

Next week Karen Beebe’s look for her Lucille Collection.

Send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

London Fashion Week!

2011-02-23T17:07:00.000-08:00

The most fashionable of people in the UK have been gathering since Friday to celebrate London Fashion Week, which ended this evening with a closing show at 8pm. London Fashion Week takes place twice a year (in February and September), and is held right in the center of London. It ranks alongside New York, Paris and Milan, making one of the 'Big Four' international fashion weeks. Here are some really great photos that I think you will enjoy!

Sass & Bide Fall 2011

Vivienne Westwood Red Label Fall 2011

Nicole Farhi Fall 2011

Matthew Williamson Fall 2011

Antonio Berardi Fall 2011

Erdem Fall 2011

Let me know what you think. Vivienne Westwood's Red Label is gorgeous in my opinion! It's hard to start thinking about next fall when we are all so ready to start wearing our spring and summer attire!! What is your 'go-to' spring/summer outfit that you are dying to get into... just think 40 degrees warmer! ;-)

Photos: Craig Arend/Tim Regas

Monday Beauty Blog-Kara Wickman

2011-02-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

Kara Wickman’s makeup look is probably one of the easiest looks to take straight from the runway and wear in your real life. While it is undoubtedly a little too glamorous for the office or brunch, it is really the perfect look for any night you want to upstage every other woman in the room. It is dramatic, but really just sexy and sultry.

Photo by Stew Milne
http://www.stewmilne.com/

This look is also a perfect example of how important it is to communicate with the designers a lot. Kara had told me that she envisioned a very French look for this collection. I had spent some time in France when I was much younger, and I immediately envisioned the women I had known in France; dewy naked skin, little to no eye makeup, hair in a pony tail, and red lips. Totally NOT what Kara had in mind at all. She wanted that seductive, enchantress at a cocktail party look. This is precisely why I also always insist that my clients give me visual examples of what they have in mind. I can’t tell you how many brides tell me they want, classic, elegant, natural makeup. Then they will show me a picture of someone with a smoky eye, or a red lip, or all they want is lip balm and blush. This holds true with designers too. Both brides and designers have an exact vision of what should be coming down the aisle/runway. They can be heartbroken if you don’t make it perfect. This was Kara’s first show, which makes it all the more important to get the look just right.

Photo by Heidi Finn
http://www.heidifinnphotography.com

One of the things I really like about this look is how pretty it was on all of the models, from our very fair blonde models to our darker African American models. It is really just a flattering look across the board. As with all smoky eye looks that I create; start with the eyes, so that fallout can be cleaned up before applying complexion makeup. Prime the lid with an eye shadow base that flatters your natural skin tone. I love Laura Mercier’s Eye Basics (I use them even at events where Laura isn’t our sponsor, as well as many other Laura products….). Tight line the upper lash line with Black Ebony Cake Liner and a flat eye liner brush. Using a crème eye shadow brush, apply Black Caviar liner to the entire lid and along the lower lash line. Using a small eye shadow brush pack on (my favorite) Sequin Shadow in Shimmerplum onto the lid up to the crease. Then using a corner eye color brush place Noir eye shadow on the outer corners of the lid, along the lash line and into the crease. Apply a pale shimmery beige (or skin tone appropriate shade if you are darker) onto the brow bone. Using a clean Ponytail Brush blend the crease and the lower lash line so everything is soft and there are no hard lines. From here, apply your foundation primer and the appropriate foundation. Your foundation should provide enough coverage so that your skin appears flawless, but no one should ever be able to see your foundation. Like a good undergarment, if it is working it is undetectable and you will appear naturally flawless. Conceal any imperfections, like under eye circles and blemishes. Set skin with a colorless loose setting powder using a puff or a fan brush. Fill in eye brows with a brow pencil so that they are well defined, but not overwhelming. Apply two coats of black mascara, and perhaps a set of false lashes. Place Violet Orchid blush on the apples of the cheeks (this color is gorgeous on about 95% of the world). Line your lips with Very Cherry pencil and fill in with the pencil. This way, as your lip color fades you aren’t left with a ring. Fill the lips in with Currant lip color. For those of us where lip color tends to migrate into fine lines (ah the joys of aging…) a great trick is to use a clear pencil around the perimeter of your mouth. It really works like a little fence for your lipstick. Another lip color option that I love with this eye is Plum Noir lip glace. I have such a soft spot in my heart for this color.

Photo by Heidi Finn
http://www.heidifinnphotography.com

This was a really pretty look, that I had a lot of fun creating. Kara got a standing ovation for her inaugural show, and I hope that this look contributed to that.

Next week Maria Mercado and her spicy red lips and bronze eyes.

Send your questions to jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

StyleWeek Providence January 2011

2011-02-16T10:31:00.000-08:00

Good afternoon fashionable friends!

I hope that everyone is staying warm on this breezy February day; it seems as though yesterday was a glimpse into the exciting spring that everyone is beyond ready for! However, before we start talking about warm weather and hot summer looks, we definitely need to talk about the amazing StyleWeek production that was only a mere 3 weeks ago! From January 16th - January 22nd we held our second, bi-annual, StyleWeek at the historic Providence Biltmore Hotel. The week now seems to be a giant blur, and I can't really make sense of each day, but what a beautiful and successful week it was!

Early Sunday morning we arrived at the Biltmore and immediately started making our home for the next 7 days, on the 17th floor. The space was breathe taking; gorgeous ceilings embellished with antique chandeliers, and windows that offered a picturesque view of Providence from every different angle... and in between all of that you could find a team working extremely hard and fast to make their 6pm show time. Of course we had our share of obstacles, but what great production doesn't? It was amazing to see all of the seats filled and windows blocked with people, as we dimmed the lights for our first show on Sunday.

Sunday

Mendoza by Same Mendoza:

Avni by Avni Trivedi Runway Show:

"Amidst the Painted Ladies" by Sarah Prost for Yellow Clover:

Monday was certainly our day to work out some bugs, and that is exactly what we did. From Sunday - Saturday, the StyleWeek team would arrive at the Biltmore between 8am and 10am and not leave until the last light was turned off. However, during those long days we so fortunate to see 16 fabulous designers showcase their fall collections for Fall 2011, and a couple installations that were hosted in the cocktail hours.

Monday

Jeff Lahens for ECC:

Oui by Kara Wickman:

Maria Del Carmen Mercado:

Tuesday

Lucille by Karen Beebe:

Dark City by Samuel Vartan:

Wednesday

Wednesday was a very special night for the StyleWeek team, as well as those who work for the American Heart Association. Together we partnered to raise money for the American Heart Association and to shed a little light into the lives of those who have been troubled with heart problems. Each of our StyleWeek designers was paired with a "survivor" whom they custom made red dresses for, each embellished with Swarovski crystals. When it was time for the runway show, each survivor strutted their stuff on the runway as their story played over the sound system. It was such a beautiful and inspiring night. Wednesday was the only night of the week that the public could purchase tickets and with that being said, we were completely full! With ticket sales, we raised over $6,000 for the American Heart Association!

Thursday

Harpy by Jen Greeke:

I'm Your Present by Kelly Eident:

Friday

Sexy Period accessorized by Martin and Ricci Installation

Phillip Sawyer:

Jessica Abernethy:

Andrea Valentini:

Saturday
Joseph Aaron Segal:

Gris by Daniela Corte:

The Garden of Colorless Flowers by Jonathan Joseph Peters:

StyleWeek Providence January 2011 was more than happy to welcome our Style Ambassadors Alex McCord and Simon van Kampen (of Real Housewives of New York) for Friday and Saturday night's events. In addition to Alex and Simon, we also hosted Johanna Stout of the CFDA and Ben Chmura, a contestant from Project Runway season 7. Excellent additions to our wonderful crowd!

StyleWeek Providence is happy to announce that the overall attendance increased significantly! Overall attendance increased 28%, fashion apparel buyers increased by 65%, and media increased by 36%. With increases in our media attendance and our buyer attendance, it allowed for some designers to receive whole sale orders... be sure to watch for their collections in local stores! Our next StyleWeek will be held from August 28-September 3! Look for updates in the near future!

As you can see from the pictures the week was absolutely amazing, and we are so excited to have already begun working on StyleWeek August 2011. StyleWeek would not be moving in the great direction that it is, if it wasn't for our great sponsors that allow for us to put on such a great production! A BIG thank you goes out to: Glad Works, Providence Biltmore, Andy Morris, Our fabulous makeup and styling team, Salon Bianco, Laura Mercier, John Orton Events, COX Communications, Redken, Rockstar Limo, Providence Pin-Up, Alex and Ani, The City of Providence, Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, Regina's Universe, Sweet Indulgence, Smart Water, Nara, The Savory Grape, Beauty and Main, The Beauty Within Model Management, Micah Jackson, Christina K. Pierce Styling, Hilary B. Photography, Daniel Gagnon Photography, Eddie Garou Photography, Swarovski, BlueSky Spaworks, Cat Country, FGX, and James Joseph Salon.

Monday Beauty Blog-Sarah Prost

2011-02-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

The task of creating the designers makeup looks is one I take very seriously. A designer has a very specific vision when they are creating their lines. I am entrusted with helping them make that vision come to life on the runway. It is so important to me that when the models step out onto the runway the designer is beyond thrilled with what they see.

So when the designer is Sarah Prost, someone who is beyond talented, and also a dear friend, I literally lose sleep trying to make sure that she gets exactly what she wants for her show. Sarah is very detail oriented. She is meticulous with her designs. She always has a very specific vision in mind for her shows. And she is also one of the loveliest human beings to set foot on this silly planet. The thought of giving her anything less than perfect for her makeup look makes me almost nauseous. The fun part though, is that she has great taste! And she always shows me inspiration looks that make me excited for the task at hand. This January StyleWeek was no different.

Sarah handed me a pile of looks that she liked and wanted to somehow incorporate into her hair and makeup for her show. These looks ranged from Marie Antoinette, to Victorian ladies, to sixties mod. And somewhere within that we found her look. A very bold round smoky eye, with a touch of teal, and top and bottom false lashes; this cosmetic confection was then finished of with a flush of pink blush and the glossiest nude lip we could make.

Photo by Heidi Finn
http://heidifinnphotography.com/

I LOVED making this look. I had so much fun playing with it. If I ever left my house for anything other than work, I might even wear a variation of this. But the least I can do is help those of you who do leave your homes make this look possible. Obviously wearing top and bottom lashes is not for everyone. But in the right setting it is absolutely gorgeous and has a certain other-worldliness that I can’t get enough of!

Photo by Heidi Finn
http://heidifinnphotography.com/

To create this look start with priming the entire lid with eye shadow base, just a hair lighter than your skin tone. Then, tight line the lash line with a black cake eye liner. Cover the lid with a well blended coat of black caviar liner, lash to crease and then also along the lower lash line; unlike the more traditional smoky eye that tends to elongate the eye, this eye should be a tad more round. Blend a black eye shadow across the lid and along the lower lash line, covering the caviar liner and softening the edges. A soft shimmery shadow like Star Fruit from Laura Mercier is placed on the brow bone, and then just a dash should also be placed on the inside of the orbital area. Not on the eye, but more the side of the nose.. Then, using a soft pony tail brush blend (my favorite) teal eye shadow, St Germaine from Laura Mercier, into the crease and lightly into the lower lash line. A thick coat of black mascara is applied to the top lashes and a light coat to the bottom lashes. I save the false lashes for last so no powder falls down onto them. So at this point prime the skin with a foundation primer. I will never stop loving Laura Mercier’s hydrating primer. We used Laura Mercier’s crème smooth foundation to even the models skin, using our fingers to apply it. Conceal any imperfections. If you haven’t used Laura Mercier’s award winning secret camouflage, go out and buy it now. This is a product I am so devoted to it may warrant a blog of its own. Set complexion with loose setting powder using a puff. The cheeks were flushed with Rose Petal blush on the apples of the cheeks. And then the lips were colored in with Passion Fruit lip color and Platinum glace. As for fake lashes, the look was intended to be dramatic and rather “doll-like” so I chose a very large shape for the top lashes, and then a kind of frilly shape for the bottom. A little secret to getting bottom lashes to fit your lower lash line, if they are being a bit unwieldy, is to cut them into segments and then apply them connecting the dots along the way. This can be done on the top as well.

This look is a very sweet take on what is often a sultry, “bad girl” look. I never cease to be amazed at how many different ways a smoky eye can be worn. So much of it has to do with how the product is placed. There are many similarities between the colors used in this look and Avni’s super strong super sexy smoky eye. But the finished product is so dramatically different. So if you don’t like how you looked in one smoky eye, play with the shape and see if that makes you fall back in love with eye shadow.

Too often we hide in our comfort zone when it comes to makeup (I am sure other areas of our lives too, but makeup is probably the most fun one to talk about). If there is one thing I hope to accomplish with this blog, it is to help reignite that playfulness that almost all girls had with their lipsticks and eye shadows when we were growing up. It is only makeup. It washes off. So play. Be bold. Be fearless. It won’t end world hunger, or teach people to love their fellow man. But it might make you smile a little brighter when you catch your reflection. And a confidant woman (or man) can accomplish anything! And how cool is that?!?

Next week, Kara Wickman.

Send your questions to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Monday Beauty Blog- Avni

2011-02-07T18:25:00.000-08:00

When planning StyleWeek Providence’s makeup looks, one thing that I try to be very conscious of is that no two looks are identical. This can be a challenge; especially when the whole world loves a smoky eye. Seriously, everyone loves a smoky eye. There is no technique I get asked to teach more than the smoky eye. And of course everyone loves the look, it is sexy. It is mysterious. It looks great on stage, and bold in an evening setting. The trick is making sure that each designer’s smoky eye was distinctive enough that none looked the same. Every designer’s collection is so unique and special it is absolutely imperative that their styling is as unique and special.

Avni was one of the only designers to ask for variations from model to model. She asked for a smoky eye in a variety of colors, plums, grays, and bronzes. Originally she had also mentioned blue, which is why the trial images are with blue shadows, but then decided on bronze instead of blue. I do love a blue smoky eye (done right) though! Everyone should play with blue eye shadow every now and again!

The theme for Avni’s show was based around, warrior women. Very strong, very bold, there was nothing timid about the looks. And thus we went for a pretty bold smoky eye. For the instructions I will list the colors I used for the trial shot and in the end of this blog I will list the colors we used for the other color families.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon
http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

Trial of eye look

With any smoky eye, I recommend doing the eye makeup first then doing your foundation and other complexion makeup so you can clean up any fall out that may occur during application. I started by prepping the lid with an eye shadow base. Then I used a cake liner and a flat (not angled) eye liner brush and applied black liner into the lash line of the upper lashes. I then applied Laura Mercier Black Navy Eye Pencil to the entire eye lid and along the lower lash line blending it out with a crème shadow brush. I then packed Laura Mercier’s Sequin Shadow in Lapis into the liner on both the lid and lash line. Using Laura’s shadow Deep Night, the upper and lower lash line are defined then more shadow is placed on the outer corners of the eyes and into the crease. I then take a soft ponytail brush and blend the edges to make sure nothing looks too hard or forced. Even a smoky eye should look effortless. No one wants to LOOK like they are trying. Then a shimmery beige shadow (I used Stellar from Laura Mercier) is placed on the brow bone and a dash in the inner corners of each eye. If the eyes aren’t defined enough, I may add a smidge of black shadow into the lash line as well. Then a couple coats of black mascara are applied and topped off with perhaps a pair of false eye lashes. There are no lashes in the trial picture but we used them in the show.

From here I clean up the fallout, and then even out the skin with the appropriate foundation, always using a sponge or my fingers (foundation brushes are made by marketing departments not makeup artists). Keeping it sheer, so you never see foundation. Concealer is then applied sparingly only where needed and the entire face is set with powder. We used a pretty nude blush. For the lighter models we used a color called Wild Bouquet and for the darker models a color called Spiced Cider. Because we wanted the models to look fairly intense, blush was used more to contour than to blush. For a softer look I would apply it more towards the apples of the cheeks.

Everyone’s brows were filled in with brow powder and groomed with a bit of brow gel.

The lip gloss of choice for this show was Champagne Glace. That is probably one of my all time favorite nude glosses. And when you wear a bold smoky eye, a nude lip really is a must.

As I mentioned above we did a few variations of this eye for Avni’s show. When we did a plum colored smoky eye we used Laura Mercier’s Black Caviar liner, Kir Royale and Black Plum shadow. When we did a charcoal eye, we used Black Caviar liner, Celestial, and Noir shadows. And for the bronze eye, we used Brown Copper pencil, Burnished and Coffee Ground eye shadow. The same cheek and lip colors were used across the board.

This really was such a beautiful look, and I loved it with Avni’s designs. Everyone looked so powerful and yet still very feminine. This was the first time I have had the pleasure to work with Avni, and I am very excited to see what she has in store for the future!

Next week Sarah Prost!

If you decide to play with any of the looks I write about, please, send me pictures! Send your questions to Jessica@styleweekprovidence.com

StyleWeek's Monday Beauty Blog- Sam Mendoza's Look

2011-01-31T18:40:00.000-08:00

So this is the first of a series of blog posts I will be writing about the makeup of StyleWeek Providence. My name is Jessica Berndt; and I am the Director of Artistry for StyleWeek. I have the privilege of working with incredibly gifted designers and some of the most talented makeup artists in New England. All so we can present a week of world class fashion right here in Providence Rhode Island.

About three months before the shows, I contact the designers and request their inspirations, themes, and ideas regarding the hair and makeup for their shows. By now I already have my team of artists assembled and a color sponsor in place. This past January we were SO very fortunate to have Laura Mercier Cosmetics provide all the makeup for the weeks shows.

The designers are generally VERY busy working on their collections and so sometimes it can be challenging to get in touch with them. This is why I start contacting them months in advance.

Once they send me their requests I send the hair requests to our brilliant hair team, Lead Stylist-Bethany Mechan and Creative Supervisor-Lulu Locks. They then start to weave their magic and make the designers hair dreams a reality.

I then will go over the designers makeup requests and start working out how to create these looks with the products provided by our sponsors. This January I had the inside advantage of having the pleasure of working for Laura Mercier for many years and knowing the line very well.

I then create my first drafts of the designers requested looks using my own face. I will photograph them and send the images to the designers. Sometimes I get it on the first try. Other times, I need to make adjustments, deeper shade of blush, shinier lip, whatever it takes.

Each week I will tell you about the creative process behind one of the designers looks from this past StyleWeek. This week I will tell you about Sam Mendoza’s look.

Sam is a designer whose work I love, and whose taste in makeup really speaks to me. Plus I just really like him. He is just a very sweet and funny man, with really great taste. When I asked him what he wanted his makeup to look like, he told me “This girl is in the country in the snow living out a romantic affair and she should look clean, fresh, and as if she's just stepped away from a cozy fire. Maybe flushed cheeks? I like the idea of ‘wine stained lips.’ What do you do when it's cold: drink red wine.” I was actually excited to play with this look! I immediately had ideas spinning in my head.

This look really is simple but so pretty. The eyelids are covered with a shimmering nude shadow. I used Laura Mercier Stellar Eye Shadow. And then using Black Ebony Cake Liner I lined the upper lash line and applied a single coat of mascara to the top and bottom lashes. The complexion was perfected using Laura’s “Flawless Face” techniques with foundation concealer and powder. Before the cheeks are powdered the lips are flushed with Blaze Crème Cheek Color. After the face is set with powder a second coat of blush is applied, this time using a powder formula in the shade Rose Bloom. The perfect lip color is always important to Sam. He and I tend to exchange a few emails regarding lip color. This time we agreed upon Currant Lip Color with the outer edges softened by blending away with my finger. Eye brows are then groomed keeping them soft but defined.

Photo by Daniel Gagnon

http://www.danielgagnonphoto.com/

This look turned out to be very simple but striking. It paired really nicely with the wind-frayed braids and huge soft hair that the hair team created for the show. Sam’s show was a beautiful and fresh way to start a really spectacular week of fashion.

Next week a recap of Avni’s warrior look!

Questions? Was there a look that you really loved? Is there a product you want to learn how to use? Are you stumped on how to master a certain technique?

Questions can be sent to Jessica@StyleWeekProvidence.com

Meet Stephan Toljan!

2011-01-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

Stephan Toljan is going to be one of the judges for the StyleWeek GoRed Challenge, and we are more than excited to have him on our already wonderful board of judges! Stephan currently holds the position of Vice President of Market Management for the Swarovski Elements Business. With being the VP of Market Management, Stephan is responsible for a sales budget in excess of $100 million in North America, as well as for the co-development and regional implementation of global marketing programs in the Americas. Stephan as been working with Swarovski crystal products throughout his entire professional career and knows every element of Swarovski. Stephan was born in Austria and now resides in Rhode Island with his family.

If you are interested in buying tickets to the GoRed Challenge click on the StyleWeek GoRed Challenge link above! The 19th is going to be a beautiful night filled with fashion, love and hope!

Source: Melissa Carrier

2011-01-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011 fashionable friends!

We hope that everyone enjoyed a happy holiday season! As Santa is now home resting with Mrs. Claus, that is not the case for us here at StyleWeek Providence. StyleWeek is only 13 days away, can you believe it? The past few months have gone by in the blink of an eye, and as we finalize everything for the week we can guarantee a fabulous time! One event that we are especially looking forward to is the GoRed StyleWeek Challenge on Wednesday, January 19th! As many of you know we have partnered with the American Heart Association to raise awareness and funds for the fight against heart disease in women. Our designers for the week will create one-of-a-kind red looks, made with Swarovski elements, for 13 survivors! The looks will be judged by our handpicked group of judges that consist of some very interesting people. Lets meet them!

David Chum: a professionally trained artist and self-taught designer from Boston. He holds a B.F.A. from the Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University. His work is included in collections across the country, and in 2009 he launched his collection Selah D'or.

Audrey McClelland: a Social Media expert and full-time blogger. Audrey is often tapped by major brands to assist with generating online buzz and building online communities.

Alex Hall: the fashion editor of Boston Magazine.

Paul Brooks: a well respected political figure in Providence.

Alison Alexander: not only one of ABC 6's fashionable news anchors, but a fashionable mom as well!

Stephan Toljan: the Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Swarovski. (Swarovski is a special sponsor this January who donated the elements that will be 'glitzing up' the beautiful dresses made for our survivors!)

Victoria Smith: the executive director for the Southern New England branch of the American Heart Association.

If you are interested in attending the event, it is open to the public and tickets are still available! Go to the StyleWeek website here, and it will prompt you to the right pages. We are promising you a beautiful night not to miss!

Revealing- Andrea Valentini

2010-12-14T08:26:00.000-08:00

Andrea Valentini, a born and raised Rhode Islander, graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with two Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Fine Arts and Interior Architecture. After co-founding an interior architecture firm and winning commercial and residential designs awards, Andrea developed her first signature textile by fusing and molding fabric with foam. In 2007, Andrea used her signature textile to launch her first collection of lifestyle bags for women and men. With immediate success following her collection she was motivated to begin her own fashion label, Andrea Valentini Inc. Her first flagship store was opened in Providence in 2009. Andrea also designs jewelry collections that have been sold all over the world, including The Museum of Modern Art, Takashimaya, and also in Japan and South Korea. The year 2010 for Andrea was devoted to designing custom duffle bags for all of the artists who performed at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago. In addition to her showroom in Providence, Andrea also opened an art gallery exclusively for RISD Seniors called LAUNCH. The intention of LAUNCH is to offer a solo how to an outstanding senior graduate as their initial launch into the world of public art, so far it has been a very big success.

Gorgeous gold diamond cuff!

Her beautiful A-Frame Gracie tote, both available on her website!

Andrea is going to be showcasing her most recent work this January at StyleWeek! Originally partnering with Joseph Segal on Saturday, Andrea now has her own show on Friday night taking the place of Pamela Ptak, who unfortunately will not be able to make StyleWeek next month. We are extremely excited to have her back, and cant wait to see what her creativity has lead her to do this time!

Source: www.andreavalentini.com

StyleWeek Accessory & Buyer Showcase

2010-11-10T09:13:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled for so many new and exciting events happening during StyleWeek January 2011! For the first time ever we are having an Accessory Showcase and a Buyers Showcase.

The Accessory Showcase will feature an alluring array of fresh and unique accessories. The showcase is open to the public on Wednesday, January 19th to the 22nd at the Providence Biltmore Hotel L'Apogee room on the 17th floor. It will be exciting to have so many innovative designs and glamorous people in one room! Make sure to mark your calendars, you do not want to miss this.

The Buyers Showcase will feature the exclusive lines of StyleWeek designers. This will allow local buyers to get a close and personal look (and a sneak peak!) at their Fall lines. This is an amazing opportunity for Buyers and designers to mingle together, talk about the inspiration for their lines and see if their designs are a perfect fit for local boutiques. Hopefully after StyleWeek January you will be able to find your favorite designs in a boutique near you! This event is invitation only, and will also be held on January 19th at the Providence Biltmore Hotel.

Take a look at the StyleWeek Providence Agenda for reference:
StyleWeek Agenda : January 2011

Revealing: Daniela Corte

2010-11-03T11:36:00.000-07:00

Daniela Corte is an established designer based in Boston. Originally from the fashion capital of South America, Buenos Aires, Daniela has been influenced by the art of creating something beautiful at a young age. Her father was a menswear designer in Buenos Aires and taught her all about the family business. After getting her degree from the Boston Fashion School and working with many Boston based designers, Daniela created an innovative manufacturing process using exotic fabrics from all over the globe. Her love for fashion is apparent in her finely crafted clothing for women where you can see for yourself on Newbury Street, where Daniela's showroom resides. Inside you will find brightly colored blouses, prints you've never seen before, exquisite fabrics, form-fitting dresses and skirts that would flatter every woman and her attention to detail (especially in her Pin Up line) is unbelievable! Her designs are luxurious with a slight edge giving any woman who wears a Daniela Corte design a boost of confidence. Daniela "loves big, thinks big, and dreams big."

StyleWeek is honored to have Daniela Corte as a January designer and cannot wait to see what she unveils.

Daniela Corte Spring 2011 - Warrior Collection

Sources:

Daniela Corte

Photo Credit:

Daniela Corte

Jay Calderin, Boston Fashion Week 2010

New Team Members

2010-10-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

SWP would like to introduce you all to our two newest additions to the StyleWeek Team. Kate Boardman and Harley Evans.

Kate Boardman, has a degree in International Business from Roger Williams University and is the Assistant of Buyer Relations & Web Copy Writer for StyleWeek Providence. Kate was deeply inspired by what she experienced at the inaugural StyleWeek and wants to share the passion and drive that makes StyleWeek possible.

Harley Evans is currently enrolled at Providence College and is the new Administrative Assistant for StyleWeek Providence. Harley is a native Rhode Islander, originally from Newport but now living and working in the creative Mecca, Providence, Rhode Island.

Welcome Kate and Harley!

Revealing StyleWeek Designers

2010-10-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be great to introduce you all to our fabulous designers for this upcoming StyleWeek.

This week I will shine the spotlight on Jonathan Joseph Peters.

Jonathan showed his collection at the inaugural StyleWeek and was also a contestant on Lifetime's hit reality television series, Project Runway, season 7. Jonathan is full of ideas, never afraid to push the limits and is great with direction which is why I am ecstatic to announce that he is now the Creative Director for StyleWeek Providence! Personally, getting the chance to work side by side with him, to know him as a friend and to witness his creative genius has been nothing short of inspiring. The anticipation in the ballroom for Jonathan Joseph Peter's runway show for last StyleWeek was tangible. The beautiful draping, neutral color palette, hand dyed fabrics and exaggerated collars were complimented by statement jewelry from House of Cach. Jonathan Peter's did not disappoint and left the crowd wanting more. Jonathan's Spring/Summer 2011 collection was just shown at Portland Fashion Week with rave reviews. Be prepared for vibrant prints, a Los Angeles inspired color scheme and maybe a few turbans for this spring, à la Jonathan Joseph Peters.

StyleWeek Providence

Jonathan Joseph Peters F/W 2010

Photograph by Daniel Gagnon

Jonathan on Project Runway with Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn

Jonathan Peters and Jennifer Showstead

at Tiffany & Co. during StyleWeek 2010

Here are a few pictures from Jonathan's Spring/Summer look book shoot for Portland Fashion Week, photographed by Daniel Gagnon. It was a thrill to work with everyone on this shoot!

From left to right: Alex Krembs, Daniel Gagnon, Jennifer Showstead,

Jonathan Peters, Laura Frazier, Jeremy Stone, Kurt Uccello

Wardrobe Designs: Jonathan Joseph Peters
Photography By: Daniel Gagnon
Makeup/Hair: Jeremy Stone
Jewerly: House of Cach

Sources:

House of Cach

Daniel Gagnon Photography

Todd Lee Photography

Project Runway season 7

Style Ambassadors

2010-10-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

It is official! Alex McCord & Simon van Kempen from Bravo's hit reality series, The Real Housewives of New York City will be StyleWeek Providence's very own Style Ambassadors. I speak for the entire team when I say that we are elated to have Alex and Simon be a part of StyleWeek! I had the pleasure of meeting them both in September during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week through Joseph Miceli-Magnone and Ed Garou (SWP Advisory Board members). StyleWeek will only continue to flourish with the help of fashion savvy New Yorkers. Alex has impeccable style with a vibrant personality and Simon will serve as a style icon for local menswear designers and encourage men to take more risks in their wardrobe choices. It was a no-brainer to want Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen as our Style Ambassadors. Alex and Simon will be attending StyleWeek Providence, January 2011.

Alex McCord, Project Runway & StyleWeek Providence designer

Jonathan Joseph Peters, Joseph Miceli-Magnone & Simon van Kempen

at Jonathan Joseph Peters Spring/Summer 2011 show in NYC

Alex McCord, StyleWeek's founder Rosanna Ortiz Sinel
and Simon van Kempen in New York City

StyleWeek's Christina Pierce, Alex McCord and
Jennifer Showstead at the 25Park party in NYC

Robert Verdi, Alex McCord & Robin Brouillette at 25Park, NYC

Simon van Kempen & Alex McCord with StyleWeek

Board members Joseph Miceli-Magnone and Ed Garou

Photo Credit:

Ed Garou Photography

Chic Unique New York
Real Housewives Blog
Alex McCord

Tiffany's Blue Box Brings Excitement to StyleWeek

2010-06-05T06:02:00.000-07:00

An international icon, the Tiffany and Co. blue box is also part of the soon-to-be legendary StyleWeek Providence that begins tomorrow! The thrill of receiving a blue box from Tiffany is one of the most exhilarating feelings (the element of surprise of what is actually in the box is so suspenseful that when the piece of jewelry is finally discovered utter happiness is experienced). And Tiffany and Co., a platinum sponsor for the event, is offering just that happiness to StyleWeek attendees, while raising money to support StyleWeek Providence (a non-profit organization). For $200, anyone can buy a blue box (there are 50 of them); 49 will have a small key pendant while only one will have a small Tiffany and Co. shopping bag charm inside. That lucky person will receive a white gold, larger key pendant valuing at $1,800.

Thinking you need to get your hands on one of these boxes? Well, the sale of the boxes will be during the cocktail hour on Sunday, June 6th. The promotion ends with a dramatic drawing (all buyers get their boxes at once and open them together..so fun) on Saturday, June 12th. Good luck!

Hotel Providence: A Venue for Fashion

2010-06-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

In just one week, Hotel Providence is the venue for the Kelly Eident, Samuel Vartan, Andrea Valentini & David Yoo, Maya Luz, Jeff Lahens, Jessica Abernethy and Jonathan Joseph Peters runway shows.

Hardly just the backdrop for Styleweek, Hotel Providence is the place for posh visitors to Providence, thanks to its famed Aspire Restaurant, lush room accommodations and perfect downtown location. (How lucky are we that this luxuriously restored, turn-of-the-century New England-esque building set in an architecturally significant city neighborhood our platinum sponsor and host venue?!)

Nestled in the heart of the Arts and Entertainment District, Hotel Providence is perfectly located to allow StyleWeek attendees to bask in not only fashion shows, but also find late-night entertainment at some of the many theaters in the district, shop the wonderful stores in the neighborhood, or enjoy cocktails at one of many nearby venues.

Hotel Providence offers 80 spacious bedrooms, including 16 suites. It is also home to Aspire Restaurant, a luscious, captivating escape into culinary creations. Aspire has an extensive wine list that allows aficionados to excite their palette. The hotel also features a rooftop terrace where guests can catch a breathtaking view of the Providence skyline.

Attendees of StyleWeek who stay at the Hotel Providence will receive a special rate (just call and tell them you are a guest of StyleWeek for this super-exclusive offer!)

Kevin Aucoin Beauty Hits StyleWeek

2010-05-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

>Thanks to Kevin Aucoin Beauty all the faces on the runway this StyleWeek will be strikingly beautiful. All of the cosmetics used throughout the week have been generously donated for the makeup artists to use. The company named after its late creator, (Aucoin passed away in 2002), has been continually recognized as an innovative and high-quality makeup brand- a la a reoccurring nominee on Allure Magazine’s Best of Beauty Awards. Aucoin’s legacy is that of a best-selling author, beauty entrepreneur and artist sans the acrylics paints. The company follows Aucoin’sfashions fade but style is eternal. three principles: sophistication, classic beauty and elegance. Moreover, in the word’s of the brand’s creator- “remember, anything worth doing is worth doing right.” Thus, it only seems natural that the cosmetics used on the runways this June is that of elegance, beauty and sophistication, because,

Helping to Find a Cure for Ovarian Cure This StyleWeek

2010-04-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

The team behind StyleWeek Providence is not just a group of individuals who enjoy fashion, but they also enjoy giving back. Therefore, it only seems sitting to use StyleWeek Providence as a platform to raise awareness and issues that plague our world. Ovations for a Cure, an organization dedicated to finding a cure for ovarian cancer has been named the official national charity of StyleWeek Providence.

Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that gets little attention, even though at least 15,000 women die each year from ovarian cancer. Specifically, in the United States, 1 in 56 women develop ovarian cancer, making that more then 26,000 new cases diagnosed each year. “Amid the many women’s health concerns today, ovarian cancer is too often overlooked, so we are honored to assist in this mission to heighten awareness and combat this deadly disease,” StyleWeek Executive Director Rosanna Sinel Ortiz comments on the partnership. Fittingly, in StyleWeek’s inaugural year, it only seems natural that we would pick a charity that would get the attention it deserves.

Sinel also remarks, “Ovations for the Cure of Ovarian Cancer is an amazing organization that fights to save women’s lives through education and awareness of ovarian cancer.” Believe it or not, the organization was actually founded in 2006 by nine-year ovarian cancer survivor Patricia Franchi Flaherty, who also lost her mother to the disease. For the past 4 years, Patty has dedicated her life to raising awareness of the risk factors and warning signs that are overlooked so no other women would have to endure what she did. (How awesome is she?)

Ovations for a Cure works to combat ovarian cancer by educating women in three ways. First, by providing critical funding of new and ongoing ovarian cancer research and treatment initiatives. Second, by actively increasing the awareness of the subtle signs and symptoms of this silent disease. Third, by giving hope, education and comfort to those currently battling ovarian cancer through its patient programs.

All throughout StyleWeek there will be after-parties at hotels such as Hotel Providence and Renaissance Hotel. Attendees will be able to raise funds for the organizations by going to the various venues where they will mingle with the designers, celebrate the fashion, and see the evening’s runway shows broadcast on big screens, but they will be able to raise money for this incredible organization.

The Voices & Vision Behind StyleWeek Providence

2010-01-24T16:46:00.000-08:00

As StyleWeek Providence grows in scope and excitement, those of us involved find ourselves increasingly asked about its origin. A city or state initiative? (negative) An off-shoot of Rhode Island’s business establishment? (nope) A part of RISD? (not at all).

Which leads to: then, what? And, more importantly, WHO is behind this?

Well, perhaps hard to believe (given how the event has already become fodder for national publicity) but—like most great ideas—StyleWeek Providence was borne of one fabulous woman’s thought (which she tentatively shared with friends last summer):

"How does such a gorgeous old city, in a region with a strong legacy for a creativity, and so many amazing designers, not have a proper showcase for that talent and culture?"

Turns out, it was the same question we all had, but hadn’t yet figured out how to articulate!

While we know, support and respect those who highlight the area’s fashion with fun (and often late-night) parties, why wasn’t anyone promoting the serious business of fashion, and combining it correctly with the region’s cultural gems on a larger, community-wide scale?

Enter the dynamos behind StyleWeek Providence! The story…

StyleWeek Providence was the brainchild of Rosanna Ortiz Sinel. Rosanna, a Southern California native, relocated to Providence in 2009 after long stints in Boston and Washington, D.C. Finding herself in a beautiful city, surrounded by creativity, she wondered why and how Providence wasn’t more firmly on the national map for fashion and design. How could a city with so much telent be so fragmented? From there, Rosanna began sharing that initial thought with others, a mix of locals and transplants like her.

Myself, for one... A long-time New York fashion journalist, I’d recently relocated to the Ocean State and, oddly enough, had a similar epiphany about the region’s cultural and creative community. My reaction was to found Miamore Communications, a boutique public relations agency for luxury and lifestyle firms. But, when Rosanna and I met for a coffee on a fateful day and she mentioned the idea, I nearly jumped off my chair. I returned home and wrote an endless email to her with ideas… and thus began what has become an on-going (and, surely for Rosanna, annoying) StyleWeek Providence tradition of my bombarding with (sometimes over-exuberant) marketing, organizational, and promotional ideas. Today, my agency, Miamore Communications, is a StyleWeek Providence sponsor and I serve as either partner; Communications, Public Relations & Marketing Director or (depending on the day, I know) a big pain in the neck with my incessant "ANOTHER IDEA!" emails.

StyleWeek Providence has a host of additional talented and driven creatives helping to transition it from a dream to a reality. We have our partners, sponsors, designers and venues, of course, but there is also a group of lesser-known brains driving StyleWeek Providence. They include:

Raphael Rawlins, Artistic Director. Raphael, a former Bobbi Brown artist in New York City, is an a-m-a-z-i-n-g-l-y talented hair and make-up artist with a long resume on major projects in New York and New England. With extensive artistic experience, Raphael has contributed fabulous ideas and inspiration thus far… but that is only the beginning. As we edge closer to the event, Raphael will work with each designer, lending his creative eye to all the shows and creating visual celebrations for buyers and media.

Steven Aronis, Assistant, Designer Liaison and Sanity Keeper. Steven heard about StyleWeek Providence from a Boston agency. A Providence resident, New York native, and recent Rhode Island College grad, Steven—who studied public relations—channeled sheer enthusiasm into what started as an intern position. He soon became an integral member of the StyleWeek Providence team. Steven handles designer relations, assists with public relations, and is the much-needed organizational brain on this creative team.

Lauren DiStefano, Intern. Lauren is a University of Rhode Island senior, and a Miamore Communication intern. Like Steven, her enthusiasm for the project was overwhelming. She’s the voice behind StyleWeek Providence’s active Twitter tweeting and assists in spreading the word about the week via press and social media coverage.

Finally, StyleWeek Providence would be but a fantasy without our team of fantastic liaisons. These key players lend their fabulous ideas, insight and regional contacts… ultimately making StyleWeek Providence the amazing event it is will be! They include:

Rhode Island. While we have liaisons throughout the region, being our local guru, Rhode Island’s Stephanie Dorazio plays an especially enormous role in bringing StyleWeek Providence to fruition. Stephanie knows our home state, and her passion for StyleWeek Providence is the key force in StyleWeek’s vendor and buyer relationships in the Ocean State. We’d be lost without her insight.
Greater Boston. Kathleen Golden McAndrew is a Boston insider. A UMass executive and style aficionado, Kathleen brings to StyleWeek Providence her invaluable insight, extensive fashion contacts, and passion for our mission. Boston being our sister city, with so many buyers, media and designers in that region, Kathleen plays an integral role in making StyleWeek a success.
Connecticut. Cary Panciera is a Connecticut native who has a summer home on Rhode Island’s gorgeous beachfront and, with a passion for fashion and the arts, enthusiastically joined the team as soon as she heard about StyleWeek. Cary is StyleWeek Providence’s liaison in Connecticut.

The team continues to grow, and we’ll keep you posted on additions. If you’d like general information (or contact information for anyone on the team) shoot me an email. Meanwhile, we can’t wait until June… just 133 days until opening night!

Celebrating All That Is Creative in Providence

2010-01-12T18:12:00.000-08:00

When Roger Williams founded Providence in 1663, we wonder if he ever imagined it would become such an artistic hub. Doubtful. But, indeed, 347 years later, Providence now bears the tagline: the Creative Capital… and for good reason. While many associate Providence with RISD, Rhode Island School of Design, the premiere arts college founded in 1877, the creative innovation extends far beyond those collegiate walls.

Providence was once the epicenter of all jewelry design; and now, it is an epicenter of all things creative. Home to many writers, chefs, designers, artists, actors and musicians Providence is currently bustling with activity. The city itself is like a painting. All of its neighborhoods are different colors that blend together to make the piece of art: Providence.

This precisely illustrates The Creative Capital as the perfect backdrop for StyleWeek Providence, which highlights the local culture while drawing attention to a city of art. Our aim at StyleWeek is to celebrate that art; not just fashion and style, but all the culture this area offers. Attending StyleWeek in June is not only limiting yourself to fashion and style, but, inviting you to revitalize your creative palette and experience the sights, sounds and tastes of Providence during your stay.

Feeling hungry? Then, delve into the many plentiful restaurants, like the Italian and Mediterranean foods found on Federal Hill. Feeling theatrical? There is no better place to be then the Trinity Repertory Company, a tony-award winning theater. Or, attend a performance by the Festival Ballet Providence. Feeling like you need some good music? The Rhode Island Philharmonic or Opera Providence will do the trick along with the many other quaint bar venues throughout the city. Feeling a bit artsy? Check out over 80,000 works of art at the RISD Art Museum; AS220, an alternative arts space; Firehouse XIII or The Providence Steelyard.

See, this is the essence of Providence and StyleWeek Providence… the perfect place to explore and be inspired, in keeping with—and celebrating—the city’s creative and cultural legacy.

From Project Runway... to the StyleWeek Runway

2010-01-07T16:41:00.000-08:00

We founded StyleWeek Providence out of a desire to celebrate the creative legacy and design talent in Providence; Rhode Island; and the entire region. Our goal is to promote both the designers and the amazing resources this area offers. And, while we have lined up an amazing roster of designers and partners already, today StyleWeek Providence added local celebrity (or soon-to-be-celebrity!) Jonathan Joseph Peters, a fashion designer that truly epitomizes our reason for being.

Peters is a Rhode Island native and, while you may not already know this talented womenswear designer (a House of Cach veteran), you soon will... as he is a Season 7 participant in the wildly popular Project Runway (premiering on January 14). Peters combines the avant-garde and ready-to-wear in his collections, which beautifully reflect his commitment to the silhouette via color, texture and balance.

P eters will showcase his collection on the StyleWeek runways in June. We hope you'll be with us to see his amazing work (below)! In the meanwhile, tune in to Project Runway to get a sneak peek at why we are so thrilled to have him as part of this fabulous event.

Happy 2010... the inaugural year of Providence's first major fashion week!

2010-01-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Hope everyone had a fabulous New Years Eve, and is ready for an amazing 2010!

The StyleWeek Providence team could not be more excited about 2010, as it marks the inaugural year for what will be a fashion and design tradition, both in New England and anywhere else people are interested in the style: StyleWeek Providence--a week-long celebration of the best emerging (and established) fashion and accessory designers. Sure, many cities have their own little fashion celebrations... and, of course, major fashion capitals like New York have their fantastic Fashion Weeks. So, what is so special about Providence, R.I.? Well, aside from being the creative capital of the America's most historic region, Providence (accurately known as the Renaissance City), is one of the country's most gorgeous and vibrant cities, is long home of the esteemed RISD (est. 1877), and is a traditional hot-bed for artists of various mediums.

StyleWeek Providence celebrates the area's tradition and culture... our designers represent the wider New England region, and our venues are the finest to be found in the Northeast. The week will include runway shows from not-to-be-missed fashion and accessory designers, after-hour parties at the city's best clubs, and events to support local non-profit charities. At its root, however, StyleWeek Providence focuses on commerce and community... our goal is to build business: for talented designers, by encouraging retailers to buy local; and for fantastic venues, by hosting events across the region. Finally, with a broad-based outreach, we aim to generate enthusiasm and recognition--among businesses and the public alike--for the wealth of design and creative talent to be found in Providence, New England's creative capital.

We hope you'll check out our newly-launched website and give us a shout if you are interested in attending or exhibiting.

Meanwhile, best wishes for a happy, healthy and stylish New Year!

StyleWeek Providence

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Monday Beauty Blog- The Makeup Show NYC

Monday Beauty Blog-Foundation: Every Face's Best Friend

Monday Beauty Blog- Joseph Aaron Segal

Monday Beauty Blog- Andrea Valentini

Monday Beauty Blog- Jessica Abernethy

Monday Beauty Blog- Philip Sawyer

Monday Beauty Blog-Jennifer Greeke, Harpy

Monday Beauty Blog-Kelly Eident, I'm Your Present

Monday Beauty Blog-*Special Request Blog* Brows

Monday Beauty Blog- Samuel Vartan

Monday Beauty Blog-Karen Beebe's "Lucille" collection

Monday Beauty Blog-Maria Del Carmen Mercado

London Fashion Week!

Sass & Bide Fall 2011

Sass & Bide Fall 2011

Vivienne Westwood Red Label Fall 2011

Vivienne Westwood Red Label Fall 2011

Nicole Farhi Fall 2011

Matthew Williamson Fall 2011

Matthew Williamson Fall 2011

Matthew Williamson Fall 2011

Antonio Berardi Fall 2011

Antonio Berardi Fall 2011

Erdem Fall 2011

Erdem Fall 2011

Photos: Craig Arend/Tim Regas

Monday Beauty Blog-Kara Wickman

StyleWeek Providence January 2011

Monday Beauty Blog-Sarah Prost

Monday Beauty Blog- Avni

StyleWeek's Monday Beauty Blog- Sam Mendoza's Look

Meet Stephan Toljan!

Revealing- Andrea Valentini

StyleWeek Accessory & Buyer Showcase

Revealing: Daniela Corte

New Team Members

Revealing StyleWeek Designers

Style Ambassadors

Tiffany's Blue Box Brings Excitement to StyleWeek

Hotel Providence: A Venue for Fashion

Kevin Aucoin Beauty Hits StyleWeek

Helping to Find a Cure for Ovarian Cure This StyleWeek

The Voices & Vision Behind StyleWeek Providence

Celebrating All That Is Creative in Providence

From Project Runway... to the StyleWeek Runway

Happy 2010... the inaugural year of Providence's first major fashion week!

Monday Beauty Blog-Special Request Blog Brows