Betsy Johnson Retiring Rumors

A few days ago, NY Mag published an interview with Betsey Johnson where the designer alluded to her possible retirement after her September runway show. Ah! What will we do without Betsey?? We know that Betsey is one tough cookie and a trooper - she’s beat breast cancer and continued to work on her eponymous line. So what gives - are the rumors true? And if they are, who will take her place?

The rumor mill has been working overtime on this one - People magazine checked in with the designer herself and she said, “I will never retire while I’ve still got my legs and my make-up box.” Haha, very Betsey. Her company had a more official statement:

With rich history and significant opportunities for future growth, Betsey Johnson wants her brand to live on forever. It is only wise that key management and talent is put in place to secure the continued health of the company for the future. Betsey Johnson will continue to provide creative inspiration and leadership as long as she is with us.

So it looks like Betsey is not leaving … for now, but who will take her place when she does? The first choice is always someone who has worked closely with the designer, in this instance, Eric Santori, the brand’s creative director, with experience designing for Vera Wang, Herve Leger and Azzedine Alaia. But what if they don’t stay within the company? What if they look for new blood? Who will they choose? Here’s my two cents…

When I heard that BJ was possibly retiring, the first person I thought of to take the healm of BJ was Richie Rich. Richie Rich’s penchant for fun, cute, girly design fits perfectly with the Betsey Johnson look. And, with Heatherette no longer taking up much of his time, this would be a great career move to keep him on the up and up.

If not Richie, then who? I thought of two more men - Jeremy Scott and Brian Lichtenberg (who at the M.I.S.S. HQ we call the young Jeremy Scott). Both designers don’t take themselves too seriously and have that “girls just wanna have fun” element to their designs. Would they do it? Jeremy may be too well known for his own designs and may not want to water down his image. Or, he could surprise us…after all, Uncle Karl designs for Chanel, Fendi and his own line - and he makes it all look very easy. This would be a great move for Brian Lichtenberg as he’s not as well known as Jeremy Scott and this would definitely put him on the fashion map.

All of this is just speculation, the last word is that BJ is not going anywhere (yay!). But, we know that she won’t be here forever so it’s a question that will need to be answered sooner or later. I just wonder if doing a cartwheel will be part of the job interview - I hope it is!

Anthropologie Presents - Vera: A New Look

When you hear the name Vera in regards to fashion these days, most people automatically think of designer Vera Wang, and her gorgeous gowns for made for weddings and other fancy occasions. But before Vera Wang came along, the name Vera was synonymous with the bold textiles created by the early feminist icon - artist turned designer, Vera Neumann who in 1946, started to screenprint images from her paintings onto place mats after she and her husband George, and partner Werner Hamm founded the Printex textile company in New York City. Together, they built an extremely successful business manufacturing silk scarves out of surplus army parachute silk, that became coveted by women worldwide. The company eventually expanded into apparel, manufacturing women’s sportswear, and licensed her designs  for dishes, household linens and other home goods. By the 70’s she had built a $100 million business with products that all started as original pieces of art created by her own hand, carried in 20,000 stores around the world.  Her company was essentially the prototype Martha Stewart brand.

Installation of Vintage Vera Scarves

Vintage collectors worldwide have not lost their fervor for collecting Vera goods, and in response, retailer Anthropologie has worked with The Vera Company to license the original artwork of Vera Neumann to create a modern apparel and home goods line called We [Heart] Vera, which debuted in their stores this spring.  Continuing and building on this relationship, Anthropologie collaborated with The Vera Company to curate an exhibit that debuted last week in their Rockerfeller Center flagship store, putting an eclectic mix of 40 original Vera scarves from the company’s archives on display with original film print negatives that were originally used to create the screens to print Vera scarves. The exhibit also includes a video installation entitled “In the Company of Vera” which was made by the company in the mid-70’s, and shows viewers an inside look of the Vera showroom, workroom, vertical manufacturing process in the company’s Ossining mansion, and introduces the individuals integral to Vera’s life, and business. In one scene, you can even catch a glimpse of designer Perry Ellis, who was one of Vera’s many protégés.

Anthropologie We Heart Vera Spring '09

Anthropologie We Heart Vera Fall '09

Vera once said “Color sings to me. Color is such a marvelous way of expressing emotion. We have so many problems in this world, color just brings a little bit of joy into our lives”  and I couldn’t agree with her more.  I was turned on to Vera by my mother. Vera’s energetic designs are synonymous with my earliest memories because my parents had a few sets of Vera sheets for their king size bed, and they eventually became the sheets we would take to lay out on our trips to the park and beach, always garnering much attention from passersby. The sheets have been passed down to me, and I continue to collect Vera scarves, clothing and textiles when I find them in thrift stores, or can manage to scrounge up the loot to battle it out on Ebay. Everything about her work to me just feels so accessible, vibrantly pedestrian and like home.

The Vera: A New Look gallery will remain open at the 40 Rockerfeller Center Anthropologie store through August when the new collection will be hitting stores for fall.  The collection of skirts, dresses, and tunics will have a modern feel in keeping with the tone of the designs, chosen from artwork painted by Vera from 1961-1969.  Print negatives are available for sale at the gallery for $280 - $380. Some of the spring items from the We [Heart] Vera collection are still available on Anthropologie.com.

Baptiste Viry Fall 09

French designer Baptiste Viry has released the look book for this Fall 09 collection and we love it!

Known for his design prowess, waistcoats and accessories, the new collection is nothing short of spectacular. 
The women’s waistcoats differ from your normal waistcoat, with each structured with a strong geometric influence, combining the colours navy and tan with plaid accents on most of the pieces. The detailing on each piece is vastly different including gold buttons, buckles, fasteners and pockets.

Gold and leather make up the Fall 09 accessories collection, with buckles again taking centre stage in most pieces. A charming leather strap necklace adorned with a bow tie fastened to the middle of the piece was the first thing I noticed - I predict it may be one of the best sellers of the collection.  Necklaces, cuffs and bracelets reminiscent of leather belts are my favourites of the collection, with a necklace made of a gold chain and leather strap combo quickly winning first place in my heart.

Keep your eye on the Baptiste Viry website for more information on when this collection hits the stores.

Wundervoll Fall '09 Collection

Berlin label Wundervoll, is now in it’s third collection and they have once again taken on the challenge of designing lingerie that is not only of high quality and comfort, but is also feminine and sexy.

“Our look has become more courageous and sophisticated. The materials and new designs lend the collection a touch of Art Déco and retro-futurism,” says Matthias Jaschke, founder of Wundervoll.
The collection features twelve models of 100% silk and six models of certified organic cotton. This materials gently cover the body without confining it, resulting in sensuous wearing comfort. The fine silk jersey wins over with its luxurious sheen and wonderful draping. The fine organic cotton jersey offers unusually high quality with a matted finish. The ten percent Lycra contributes to its excellent fit. Wundervoll also places particular importance on detailed workmanship on the inside of the garment. It is finished with fine logo bands with gold print.

Images of the entire Wundervoll collection can be found at www.wundervoll.com.

Studded, fierce and fancy. Kerin Rose models her yet-to-be-named studded frames, retail $310.

Love this lady. Perhaps one of my favorite people, which would make sense as I met her through some of my other favorite people…my girls roll deep and in the most excellent of company, TRUST. And when you roll with such style and grace, please believe that the pool of creativity runs deep. You’ll remember Kerin Rose from our Women’s Making History interview series this past March. Piece by piece this lady creates everything by hand, atttention to detail and quality craftswomanship have gotten her noticed by the likes of Katy Perry and Cassie and others who I can not mention at this time (but know they are real, real good!!!). On my recent trip to NYC I had the chance to hang with my lady at her HQ, her home, the place it all happens. We did our girl thang: ate waffles and burgers followed by cake, talked about men NOT BOYS, squealed over vintage hooker heels, toured her home/workspace and of course checked out the “new new” from A-Morir.

Where the magic happens: A-Morir's work station.

Kerin models the Love/Hate Convertible Chain sunglasses.

Kerin could probably glue anything to a pair of sunglasses, I’m really starting to believe that. From heavy chain on her Love/Hate Convertible Chain Sunglasses, as worn by Cassie, Jazmine Sullivan and MTV’s Erin Lucas to killer studs on the most vicious and fierce frames ever (Lady Gaga you kinda NEED THESE), the lady Rose is making a life of what she loves, one Swarovski crystal at a time (only the finest). Her world famous Schubert Heart Shaped Sunglasses, as worn by Katy Perry, are being jeweled up in orange and a lighter shade of pink these days. AND she’s adding fancy fringed arm adornments to her offerings too…so MAJOR.

A-Morir's latest addition...her "MAJOR" fringed fingerless opera gloves.

Stay posted, Kerin Rose is on the up and up and one to watch…TRUST that.

Although not amongst us, MJ’s music, moves, and swag will live on within us. An ode to Mister Jackson, this is for the night lovers down to rock beats and break necks.

- Leilanie

I Can’t Help It by Miss Omni Media featuring Stella McCartney

A tribute to the man who defined what it meant to be an entertainer. His innovative spirit, style, and persona will live on in our memories forever. RIP Michael Jackson.

~Gee

Fourth Of July by Miss Omni Media on Polyvore.com

fourth of july inspired gear. super cute, a litte flashy, and fit for the occasion.

peace.
Jenessa

Creme’ de la Creme’ by Miss Omni Media on Polyvore.com

I found a photo of Rihanna in this Christopher Kane dress that I absolutely adored and imagined what I’d wear with it.
80’s Purple is my favorite online store to find accessories, which I pulled a lot of these from.

By: Courtney Kai

Nightime pizazz by Miss Omni Media featuring Miu Miu shoes

I’m loving the harem pants and jumpsuits this season. Trend or no trend, they’re hot! They’re perfect for daytime, and in this case, they’re sure to stand out in the night!
-by Magdalene

Posso 12" Limited Edition Collection - only 12 of each style made!

We’re smack-dab in the middle of a recession, so who wants to go around buying new outfits all the time? OK, we’d love to be able to spend all our funds scooping up the latest designer gear, but we just don’t have that luxury. Plus we love to bring out our inner Rachel Zoe and play stylist by getting creative with our already-acquired duds. Accessories play an even more important role nowadays because they have the ability to breathe new life into clothes that have resided in our closets for some time. So let M.I.S.S. introduce you (or re-introduce you, for those of you already familiar) to Los Angeles-based brand Posso, who’s recently released a limited edition croc-textured series of shoe accessories, cuffs, and belts that are sure to glam up any outfit.

The Subject, the 12" Collection's footwear accessory

Welcome to Posso’s 12″ Collection, one so exclusive that only 12 - that’s right, twelve! - of each style were made. Let’s begin with one of the most important features of any outfit - your footwear! To dress these up a bit, don The Subject, a limited edition spat that comes in turquoise crocodile and creme anaconda and retailing at $130. Best of all, it’s reversible, so you get a 2-for-1 deal with these babies. (It’s kind of like getting two new pairs of shoes at once.) If you’ve grown tired of plain old bangles and cuffs, opt for The Offering, the 12″ Limited Edition Cuff from the collection. The unisex accessory will run you $60 and is available in turquoise crocodile and creme matte. It also includes a hidden pocket for any pocket-sized necessities (think your I.D. or ATM card) - perfect for a night out - we’d almost categorize it as a clutch. Lastly, the belt from the 12″ Collection, dubbed The Pause, comes in turqoise crocodile and creme anaconda and costs $90. Ideal for both men and women, it sits comfortably at your waist or hip. Each piece is made of Italian embossed leather (so yes, it’s the real thing, for those of you wondering) and created in downtown LA. All are available on Posso’s online shop, where you can scoop up some of the brand’s other footwear accessories and  garter belts.

The Pause from Posso's 12" Collection

We understand that wearing a funky new accessory can jazz up any outfit and thus make you feel excited, maybe even make you want to get up and dance. Posso understands too, and they’re offering a playlist of a few tunes you can download and boogie to. Hell, even if you’re not lucky enough to scoop up one of these exclusive pieces that doesn’t mean you don’t have the right to jam to these remixes, which features songs from Phoenix and Dynasty. The playlist comes courtesy of Posso’s blog, Diamond Dusted and Rhinestoned, which you should most certainly check out while you’re over there.

Posso 12" Limited Edition - Don't sleep on these pieces!

For those of you up-to-date in blogosphere happenings, you’ll recall that Posso was featured on Style.com for their collaboration with Shawn Kaleka of Costume Department. The project was spawned after Posso masterminds Marylouise Pels and Vanessa Giovacchini began discussing outfits for Coachella, where Kaleka suggested the possibility of creating an outfit for the famous festival, and as they say, the rest is history. From this conversation came the “Space Safari” collection, which will consist of swimwear and cover-ups, and like the 12″ Collection, spats, cuffs, and belts. You’ll be able to scoop up pieces from the “Space Safari” collection on 80s Purple and from Posso’s Web site.

Giles FW 2008 RTW

Back in April, M.I.S.S. gave you the dish on the ANDAM Paris Fashion Award and how to apply. Just to recap, ANDAM awards the €160,000 International Grand Prize, the largest prize in the fashion industry, to one up-and-coming designer, which gives that designer the chance to show in Paris during fashion week. On June 24th, ANDAM chose British designer Giles Deacon as the recipient of the International Grand Prize. ANDAM also awarded young  Swiss jewelry designer Ligia Dias their new Young Fashion Designer Award worth €20,000.

Giles’ 2008 and 2009 collections have garnered attention for having a variety of unique design elements such as meticulously handcrafted ruffles, laser cut stars in sheath dresses, and his use of large graphic prints incorporated into feminine silhouettes which are featured in his notable Spring ‘09 Ready-to-Wear “Pac Man” collection.

Giles SS "Pac Man" 2009 RTW

Ligia Dias‘ jewelry is best described as a combination of industrial materials like rope and chain with luxurious pearls, gems and satin ribbon. Dias has worked along-side Lanvin designer Alber Elbaz as an accesories design apprentice and her jewelry can be seen in Lanvin’s collections as late as SS 2004. More recently, Dias’ has collaborated with Karl Lagerfeld in designing ballet flats and was commissioned by Phillip Lim to create necklaces for the Phillip Lim 3.1 SS 2008 collection. Dias’ own line of jewelry can be seen at Yoox.

Ligia Dias

SOURCES:

[photos] Style.com, Yoox.com, NYmag.com

M.I.S.S. July 2009: Reebok Basquait Freestyle Hi Beat Bop

There is so much to celebrate this July! Besides the obvious BBQ filled days that are fast approaching this 4th of July weekend, this month is also another release in the Reebok Basquiat Freestyle Hi Beat Bop series.  This ongoing series has an offering of two styles for the ladies and two for the men. This Fall 09 pack are in a black and white color pallet and continue to pay homage to Basquiat’s art. His artwork graces the Freestyle Hi and nails to match. Keep your kit tight.

M.I.S.S. July 2009: Reebok Basquiat Freestyle Hi Beat Bop

Reebok Basquiat Freestyle Hi Beat Bop, Chanel Le Vernis nail colour in Black Satin and White Satin, and Big Apple Red from OPI.

Download the M.I.S.S. July 2009 Calendar and the M.I.S.S. July 2009 Desktop.

You can download the M.I.S.S. June 2009 Calendar and the M.I.S.S. June 2009 Desktop.

You can download the M.I.S.S. May 2009 Calendar and the M.I.S.S. May 2009 Desktop.

You can download the M.I.S.S. April 2009 Calendar and the M.I.S.S. April 2009 Desktop.

You can download the M.I.S.S. March 2009 Calender and the M.I.S.S. March 2009 Desktop.

You can download the M.I.S.S. February 2009 Calender and the M.I.S.S. February 2009 Desktop.

You can download the M.I.S.S. January 2009 Calendar and the M.I.S.S. January 2009 Desktop.

"Barbie Undressed"- Wundervoll Designs an Exclusive Lingerie Set

Wundervoll has designed a special lingerie set for BARBIE commemorating her 50th birthday. Wundervoll took inspiration from the retro era of the late 50’s and 60’s to created a signature look using fine silk jersey that is updated with reference to their Spring/Summer 2010 collection that features elements of African tribal art and art deco influence.

“The elegant design, subtle sexiness, and the fine details of this Wundervoll creation make for perfect “underthings” for Barbie’s special birthday,” says Wundervoll.

The Wundervoll Barbie will be presented to trade experts for the first time in connection with the “Barbie Undressed” exhibit at the Lingerie Show, BOUDOIR. The show starts today,  July 1st and continues tomorrow, July 2nd during Fashion Week in Berlin, one of the hottest fashion weeks for it’s innovation and groundbreaking creativity.

The exhibit can be viewed at the Galeries Lafayette from June 26th through July 18th. For all you Barbie fans who can’t make the Berlin show, no worries! The show is traveling to major cities like Moscow at the concept store, Cara and Co, Brussels at the concept store, Francis Ferrant, New York at The Train NY show, Milan at Biffi Milano, and lands in Paris at an exclusive charity auction.