LBS Backstage Beauty: TRESemme for Rebecca Minkoff Fall 2013

Rebecca Minkoff's Fall 2013 collection was marked by whimsical patterns and space-cadet-like shapes. To compliment the overall look of the collection, TRESemme lead hairstylist Jeanie Syfu gave models a sleek, structured look.

"We decided to take the hair a different direction from last season and have it really bold and strong. So we’re prepping the hair with the Thermal Creations Volumizing Mousse ($4.99) and then we’re applying the Keratin Smooth Heat Protection Shine Spray ($5.29) on the ends, blowing them out really straight with a boar bristle brush on high heat so it’s really sleek and polished..."

"Next, we’re putting in extensions from the nape so all the girls have a really strong wight line and it just has a bold, graphic shape."

"We’re flat-ironing the hair with a little hairspray so it’s really bone straight, combing through it right before they walk out, and we’re spraying the Smooth No-Frizz Shine Spray ($4.75) on the hair just so it stays really polished. Everyone is going to have a center part and we’re just teasing it really lightly."

 This hair look is fairly easy to create at home using TRESemme's extensive line, and few core tools like a great flat iron.

 See below for a anapshot of how to get the look with TRESemme:

For more looks straight from NYFW, keep checking LoveBrownSugar.com's Backstage Beauty page for more!

LBS Runway Report: Jason Wu Fall 2013

First Lady Michelle Obama is one of the most fashionable president’s wives ever. Like ever. She’s the style muse of thousands of sophisticated ladies, like our own Christina. But one of the hundreds of things I admire about FLOTUS is her power in the fashion world. She transforms designers into elite household names. Ask Jason Wu. After Michelle donned two elegant Wu originals for both inaugurations, he’s reached the upper echelon of American contemporary designers.

Wu used his Fall 2013 collection to prove why he’s on FLOTUS’ speed dial. His eye for fashion has matured this season. It is sexier and edgier than past collections, but his signature sleekness was also prevalent on his black-and-white, square catwalk. Geometrical designs, belted waistlines, square shoulders, a darker-hued palette … I’m in love. Wu’s collection, full of tailored pants that can easily transition from the office to a Thai dinner with the girls, is for the grown woman. 

From the red belted-trench with military-style buttons to a chiffon-pleated skirt paired with an edgy mini-leather jacket, Wu found his stride: Elegant women with a purpose. Wu’s collection is for the women like FLOTUS, professional and elegant, but also full of vibrant personality. I especially adore this chic black and white halter dress with leather shoulders and a chiffon bodice. Super sexy. I can see Michelle donning it to a dinner for a dignitary. 

The models embodied the feminine theme of this collection with their sleek ponytails and simply-beat faces. And the chandelier in the center of the runway was the perfect complement. 

We were hoping Michelle made an appearance in the front row, but she had First Lady duties to tend to. Unfortunately, none of our faves were in attendance, but regardless, Wu has earned his stripes with this collection.

What do you think of Jason Wu’s collection? 

- Evette Dionne

Photo credit: Style.com

LBS Runway Review: Nicole Miller Fall 2013

3 words: Black, Leather, Print. If fabulous and trendy had a baby, it would definitely be Nicole Miller's Fall 2013 line. Usually known for her bright colors and patterns, she took a different turn in keeping it fashionably tasteful without being redundant or cliche. Nicole Miller mixed in delightful prints from geo-printed dresses to embellished layered separates.

Right when we thought leather was making too much of an appearance, she reassured us that a little leather obsession never hurt, especially if used to complement statement pieces. Did you peep the furs? In the words of ThePlatform's fashion diva P'Trique, #TotesAmaze. 

Related: LBS Runway Report: Nicole Miller Spring 2013

Some of the celebs and fashion icons who graced the front row at the show included Nigel Barker, Eve, and Ashlee Simpson and Nichole Galacia.

What do we love about this collection? We love that everyday budgeting fashionistas like ourselves can easily derive inspiration from any of the pieces and pull together a Nicole-Miller-inspired outfit without burning holes through our pockets! We're already looking forward to fall fashion and it's not even summer yet. 

- Gracie J

Photo credit: Amy Sussman 

CharlotteObserver.com

LBS Runway Report: WHIT Fall 2013

Fashion Week officially began for LBS on Wednesday, February 6th as we were invited to attended Whitney Pozgay’s WHIT Fall 2013 Presentation at the W Hotel. As soon as I entered the room I could not stop my eyes from darting from model to model, imagining myself in each of the looks, from the pleated leather skirt to the leopard jumpsuit I wish I could pull off. (In my head I can pull it off, but reality prevails).

WHIT’s 2013 Fall collection was inspired by 60’s pop and rock icon Marianne Faithfull and I have to say I love the effortless, yet fabulous and fun vibe this collection achieved. The combination of clean shapes, paisley, stripes, and animal prints, leather, fur collars and muted metallics along with opulent shades of ruby, navy and forest green were a joy to see. Fall 2013 definitely won’t be drab with this collection in tow.

Apart from the beautiful display of WHIT’s Fall collection I was a huge fan of the hair and make-up look. The side-part with the waves partnered with the fresh face, rosy cheeks and pink tinted gloss added to the effortless yet fabulous vibe. Tres Chic darling!

-Kaila Baptiste 

Will you be rocking a WHIT-inspired look this Fall?

LBS Runway Report: BCBGMAXAZRIA Fall 2013

New York Fashion Week started off with a bang, the Theatre full to the brim with an audience eagerly anticipating the start of the BCBGMAXAZRIA show. The Turkish-inspired collection was full of textures, layering and leather.

I must say I was in awe of this collection as every single look screamed out to me; it was as if Max and Lubov Azria had designed this collection with me in mind. As a hat lover, I was enchanted by the cashmere beanies that adorned each look. 

The pimp-daddy furs that were ever present in this Fall 2013 collection made my toes curl. I fell in love with every single look - from the patchwork fur vests to the jackets and power woman separates, for once I’m excited for Fall!

The rich blues, neutrals like blacks and white, and burgundy mixed with contrasting textures created a luxurious feel.  Flowy skirts and dresses paired with furs for gypsy-inspired layering. Contrasting sleeved boyfriend coats, baseball jackets, laser-cut leathers, and super-sexy thigh-high cut-out leather boots abound. The beauty look was bone-straight hair and dewy satin-finish makeup. The jury is still out on the leather leg warmers...

The Fall 2013 embodies a woman-in-charge, grungy yet bohemian with a sporty essence. Sounds complicated but BCBGMAXAZRIA made it look effortless.     

Will you be emulating any of BCBG’s looks?

                                -Kaila Baptiste

                                                                                 Photo Credit: The Associated Press

LBS Runway Report: J. Crew Spring 2013

J. Crew nabbed the ultimate stamp of approval when First Lady Michelle Obama endorsed the retail giant several seasons ago. We’re reminded of the spunkiness of J. Crew every time Michelle O. steps onto the White House lawn in one of their designs. But even without the paparazzi snapping MO in J. Crew, the commercially-viable brand is still a couture fashion contender.

There’s so much love to give here. J. Crew nailed their Spring 2013 collection, honey! I am still geeked with excitement over how “sophisticated-chic” these digs are. The clothing is fresh, upbeat and funky with a signature quirkiness that separates the brand from all the imitators.

I’ve been asking where traditional spring and summer colors are in these unveilings. There have been tons of darker hues that are common in the fall and winter. With their psychic-like intuition, J. Crew effectively balanced the fashion closet with their preppy blazers, pastels and pajama-esque prints. Pinks, greens, festive yellows and royal blues ruled this collection.

Lovelies, there were neon-green Peter Pan dresses with an undeniable 1960s vibe, large thick-rimmed glasses, printed ties and even paint-splattered jeans with baseball hats. It was signature J. Crew – vibrant, fun and youthful – with a retro aura.

There was no traditional catwalk. Instead the models, with their light makeup, sleek ponytails, and orange lips stood stoic as photographers and celebs, including our beloved Solange, fawned over their looks.

Solange Knowles, Jenna Lyons

Tom Mora, the head womenswear designer, referred to the collection as an “Instagram-like palette.” She’s right. I’ll be purchasing some of these pieces and snapping photo after photo of my gorg outfits.

So, here’s what I know. We need to be bold in our spring and summer wardrobes! Invest in lots of contrasting, but flattering prints that can accent one another. And neon accessories are still the rage. When will April be here again? We cannot wait.

Thoughts? Did J. Crew nail this collection?

- Evette Dionne

LBS Backstage Beauty: MAC for SUNO Spring 2013

For the SUNO Spring 2013 collection, MAC Cosmetics partnered up with Suno for the collection's makeup look. Makeup artists channeled dusty desert chic with beiges, taupes and just a hint of tint. The makeup was definitely focused on fresh faces with a light bronze. 

"The face is fresh, with moist lips, no strong brows and no exaggerated eye. We wanted the look to give a feeling of freedom," said head Makeup Artist Carole Colombani. Artists used MAC Cosmetics Face and Body Foundation, Studio Finish Concealer, and Shaping Powder on the face. 

For cheeks, artists used Paint Pot in Groundwork to contoured the cheeks, and Quite Natural was used to add depth.

Fawntastic and Shell Cream Colour Bases were mixed to add highlights on cheekbones.

For eyes, artists mixed Emphasize and Accentuate Shaping Powder on the lid. 

This girl was so gorgeous. Love the soft, desert-kissed glow they gave her.

Thoughts on this beauty look? Would you try this at home?

LBS Runway Review: Fotini Spring 2013

The Fotini Spring 2013 show focused on the decadence of the rococo. The designer overindulged in Swarovski, silk, lace, and organza to bring you a watercolor spring. The collection sprang from the watercolors of Watteau and the boudoir of Madame Pompadour and trust us, the collection did not disappoint. 

The pieces spoke to a time of decadence, and the setup of the show gave a museum feel. The models stood in the middle of “the box” and we moved around them. After all, paintings do not move, art admirers do. The garments were of a different time.

The trend to watch happens to also be one of my favorite RTW pieces of the collection, the printed dress with Swarovski Crystal buttons. 

I love how Fotini’s inspiration led to her use of organza and lace. In one of my other favorite looks, which I am hoping to see on the red carpet this season, she added a lightness to a high slit gown by accenting it with wisps of organza at the shoulders.

I really adored the accents of this collection. The 3-D effect on all the pieces allowed the dresses to come to life with light and movement.

One thing that dawned on me as a I nibbled on the multi colored macaroons severed at the show and watched as her models stood atop a white platform as easels for Fotini’s masterpieces was that the collection brought me to Wisteria Lane. You Desperate Housewives stans know that I could instantly imagine Brie Hodge wearing the beautiful embellished white gown, the centerpiece of the show, as a wedding dress for her third or fourth marriage. It had a sensuous, reminiscent elegance.

Are you in as much love with this collection as I am?

- Chrislande Dorcilus

LBS Runway Report: Michael Kors Spring 2013

A ticket to a Michael Kors show is one of the most coveted invites in the business. He’s a go-to designer for celebs (and me, since I’ve spotted a few of his bags and pumps in TJ Maxx. Hallelujah!) So the stars aligned – as usual – for his Spring 2013 reveal. We spotted Catherine Zeta-Jones and her hubby, Michael Douglas, Katharine McPhee (who I adore!) and Olivia Munn in the front row.

The who's who packed into the Theatre to gauge trends for their spring and summer wardrobes. With this elegant, classic collection, there are tons of pieces to choose from and be inspired by!

Kors offered up a signature blend of sophistication, modern aesthetics and simplicity that are his earmarks as a designer. He relied on primary colors paired with bolder accents to continue the stripes  and color-blocking fashions of past seasons. There was a chic punch packed into the solid blacks, reds, yellows and blues that were present in almost every piece on his runway, from bodysuits to light sweaters.

It wasn’t flashy or overtly sexy. Instead, the sexiness was subliminal. Elegant swag is attractive, after all. The whimsical 60s have been on constant display this week. Michael Kors relished in that era. He offered up mod silhouettes in sexy separates for the office, late nights with the gals or even a business casual dinner with colleagues.

One of the looks I’m most fond of is the white trench coat with the gold-buckled waist. It screams retro chic! I know these are spring and summer collections, but I want this now! Let’s hope he releases a similar piece to the TJ Maxx racks soon. Lovelies, if I stumble on one during my deep bargain dives, I’ll be sure to share it with you first!

 I’ll also be picking up a few inspired pieces for my hip-hop meets prepster boo. 

Overall, I’ll give Michael Kors an "A" for maintaining his signature, while also giving us something to look forward to in the spring. Bravo, Michael!

What do you think of this collection?

- Evette Dionne