All The Rage

Tim Gunn and me

Patt Morrison — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:47 -0800

I had the loveliest chat not long ago with Tim Gunn, the heart and soul of "Project Runway." If you didn't see it originally, you can read it here: http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-morrison14-2009nov14,0,5198260.column

Gunn occupies the role on "Project Runway" that the Queen of England holds constitutionally in her realm: to advise, to warn, to be consulted. It's a wonderful role, and an influential one, which is why I was all the more delighted with this part of my exchange with Gunn:

Do we have you to thank for the fact that there is no fur in the challenges?

Yes, thank you! I was called a fool when I was chair of fashion at Parsons and I invited PETA to speak to students. The industry went crazy. I said: "Wait a minute. The International Fur Trade Commission is coming here. I have a responsibility to bring another point of view, let the students decide." I would say if you're going to use fur, you have a responsibility to know its origins. At Liz Claiborne, every brand is now fur-free. A woman assaulted me verbally for my fur position. She said one of [her] favorite items is a mink coat, and that furthermore, it's sheared mink, so people wouldn't even know it's fur. I said: "Then you have even less of an excuse. Sheared fur looks like velvet. You could wear a velvet coat." I'm also not a great fan of faux fur that looks real -- I'd much rather have it look fake.

And yet every few seasons, including this one, you thumb through the fashion mags, and there's fur, fur, fur. PETA's chic, no-fur celebrity messages can't compete -- they can't afford to make the same splash that huge, rich fashion brands can, and it's the latter that drive buying habits. I won't say ''taste'' because it isn't tasteful.

There's no reason to kill animals for fur. Wearing fur is like wearing a big sign reading, ''I'm in favor of inflicting cruelty and pain on animals as a fashion statement.'' Unspeakable torture is inflicted on dogs, cats, bunnies, raccoons, foxes, minks and myriad trapped, helpless creatures in the name of fashion -- yes, dogs and cats.

Here's a PETA music video of what those dog and cat fur ''farms'' look like, and if you've gone shopping for fur or even thought of buying it, you have a moral obligation to watch. [Warning: There are images of animals being poorly treated:] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAaJqi3rThI

And here is the video Gunn made with PETA on the matter. [Warning: It includes some graphic images of animals being poorly treated, killed and stripped of their fur:]

https://secure.peta.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1995

About 10 years ago, Burlington Coat Factory had to recall parkas trimmed in dog fur. A couple of years ago, the Humane Society asked the feds to penalize retailers and designers that mislabeled fur from dogs and wolves as something more, well, palatable. Donna Karan's pledged to go fur-free. How about you?

-- Patt Morrison

Bearded & Tschorn: Show us your charity 'stache

Adam Tschorn — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:10:46 -0800

The Movember mustaches are now barely 3 weeks old, so we thought it was high time to provide some visual updates -- and encourage others to send in photographic evidence of their hirsute pursuits so we can all have a good chuckle over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Mine has finally emerged from its lip smudge dormancy and become something I find myself referring to in the third person (things like: "Adam's mustache wants to go to Palm Springs," or "Adam's mustache wants to buy the band a drink.")

At this point, the men behind the 3-week-old badges of follicular courage will find themselves having to make some serious decisions about what kind of mustache they want to cultivate. I've chosen a conservative, somewhat corporate Eric Holderesque bat-wing 'stache because it seems so against type. It's actually turned out creepier than I imagined.

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention that a few week back, the guys over at KTLA had a good-natured response to my earlier call to Southland celebs to let it grow, which I've embedded at the bottom of this post. (But I still expect real ones next year, guys!)

So submit photographic evidence of your facial forestry to our Your Scene site, or Tweet them to our attention @LATimesImage and we'll put together a gallery.

-- Adam Tschorn

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More pursuit of the hirsute from Bearded & Tschorn

Photos (from top): The 3-week-old mustache belonging to Times staff writer Adam Tschorn is now prominent enough to refer to in the third person. (Example: "Adam's mustache was NOT happy with this photograph.") Credit: Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times

Seen on screen: Cheryl in Nanette on 'Curb'

Adam Tschorn — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:25:17 -0800

Every time I see those features in the magazines where people write in to find out where to get the dress/lipstick/handbag that appears on a celebrity, I'm suspicious that they're all just made up inquiries.

So I was surprised to receive an e-mail recently asking the Rage crew for a little bit of fashion forensics. It read in part:

"Hoping you might be able to help me. In last week's episode of "Curb" (Episode 8 of Season 7, "Officer Krupke"), Cheryl is wearing an animal-print blouse that my mother is OBSESSED with. Would love to know where to get it for her for Christmas ... Do you guys know how I can find out who makes it?"

It took a little bit of digging -- since the "Curb Your Enthusiasm" cast members have been known to mine their own wardrobe for the clothes they wear on-screen -- but I'm happy to report that the blouse in question is by Nanette Lepore.

What I'm not happy to report is that the blouse in question is from the designer's Resort 2009 collection and the folks at Nanette Lepore tell me it's no longer available in stores.

But at least now our Christmas elf (whose name I won't divulge in case the hunt turns out to be successful) now has some search terms to help as she scours the far corners of the Internet.

And, if you've seen something on screen and want to know more about it, feel free to post a comment on the blog or shoot me an e-mail (at adam.tschorn@latimes.com) and I'll try to get the back story.

-- Adam Tschorn

Photo: Cheryl Hines (left) and Elisabeth Shue. Hines, as Cheryl* David, is wearing an animal print blouse from designer Nanette Lepore's 2009 Resort collection. Credit: Doug Hyun.

*[Updated 11/23/2009 11:05 AM: In an earlier version of this post, the "Curb" character played by Cheryl Hines was incorrectly referred to as Laurie David.]

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Sales alert: Martin + Osa for Thanksgiving weekend

Whitney Friedlander — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:09:59 -0800

Friday through Sunday, the hip all-American casual brand Martin + Osa is offering cashmere cardigans and V-necks, and denim jeans (skinny, straight and boot cut) for $59 (regular price $89.50 to $170) online (beginning at midnight Thursday) and in-store beginning at 8 a.m. Friday.

10250 Santa Monica Blvd. L.A. (310) 785-7924. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. www.martinandosa.com

-- Max Padilla

More shopping news

Street Fashion: Westfield Century City shopping mall

Tolkowsky, king of the diamond cut

Susan Denley — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 06:00:00 -0800

Ask a diamond connoisseur about cut, and they’ll probably mention “Gabi,” otherwise known as Sir Gabriel Tolkowsky, master diamond cutter. So, it was no surprise that the glitterati showed up earlier this week to meet the man himself and to get a peek at his namesake, the Gabrielle diamond jewelry collection, at posh jewelry purveyors Black, Starr & Frost at South Coast Plaza.

The Gabrielle has an intense fiery sparkle, even at first glance. Diamonds cut in this manner also have a dazzling price tag and are comparatively more expensive than other cut diamonds with the same carat and clarity. The Gabrielle collection is cut in Belgium, entirely by hand, adding to the gems’ rarity.

What Paris is to fashion, Antwerp is to diamonds, and that’s where legendary diamond cutter Tolkowsky calls home. His job is more like that of a surgeon than a lumberjack as the crude word “cutter” may imply. The only things rough are the rocks he starts with.

“The first thing I do when I hold a diamond, is I look at it and ask it, 'what would you like to become?' It answers: 'the most beautiful.' I answer: 'you will be.' That is the challenge,” Tolkowsky said.

When De Beers discovered a 599-carat diamond rock in the Premier Mine, they turned to Tolkowsky. This enormous stone, which Tolkowsky polished into a heart shape, would later be named the Centenary Diamond. It took him three years to complete the arduous task, cutting the old-school way: Cut to 273.85 carats it is considered to be the most flawless modern-cut diamond in the world. But who could wear a diamond that size?

“I created it so it would be worn on a turban. I went back to the east, where diamonds first came from. A diamond fit for a sultan or a maharaja,” Tolkowsky said. The diamond’s current owner is unknown.

Holding a replica of the rock that would become the Centenary Diamond, he explained that the Gabrielle cut “is the result of all the information, all the diamonds I have polished: the Centenary, the Golden Jubilee and all the files behind my eyes. With the Gabrielle I’ve added a new dimension in the journey of light.”

Black, Starr & Frost is located at South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa. (714) 549-2522, www.blackstarrfrost.com or visit: www.gabriellediamonds.com.

Photos: Sir Gabriel “Gabi” Tolkowsky, master diamond cutter, (top) looking through his loupe at a replica of the Centenary Diamond in its rough form. Credit: Sabrina Azadi. Bottom photo: Adrienne Brennan of Corona del Mar, wearing a necklace from the Gabrielle collection. Credit: Sabrina Azadi

Ann Taylor gets a makeover

Melissa Magsaysay — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:27:44 -0800

About a month ago, a friend and I were strolling through the Beverly Center, when to my surprise she requested we make a stop at Ann Taylor. A present for her grandmother, I assumed, but it wasn’t the case. She, in a Balenciaga lace bandeau top and Nina Ricci ankle boots, made a beeline for a table of shiny accessories and started trying them on. Still confused as to why we were in my mom’s favorite shopping destination, I spotted another young lady shopping, wearing beaded moccasin boots and the cover look from the Urban Outfitters catalog. I knew right then, this was no longer my mother’s Ann Taylor.

Getting a second look at the holiday collection and a sneak peek at spring 2010 Thursday afternoon, I was again impressed and in awe of how different and good the clothes and accessories at Ann Taylor are looking. Vintage inspired rhinestone baubles, chunky stone necklaces woven with grosgrain ribbon and decadent-looking cocktail rings are the bright spot of their holiday offering -- and everything is priced from $60 to $100, which is a lot of bling for your buck considering the high-shine impact these pieces make. The dresses are classic and feminine, simple shifts with bow details at the shoulders, a '40s inspired polkadot dress with side ruching and flirty black cocktail dresses adorned with delicate rhinestones at the waist can look subtle and traditional, but can easily get styled with fun and quirky accessories for an even more youthful look.

Ann Taylor’s facelift is due in part to their new creative director Lisa Axelson, who signed on starting with fall 2009 after creative roles at Club Monaco and Banana Republic. Axelson has injected a fresh and more youthful feeling into the design of the line, but not to the point where you wouldn’t recognize it (there’s still plenty of ribbon-trimmed cardigans and practical trousers). Also, look out for their ad campaigns -- Heidi Klum is the “face” for holiday and according to an Ann Taylor rep, the star of their spring campaign will be an even bigger surprise, someone most people wouldn’t have previously associated with the brand at all.

I’m sure the fashionable young ladies I saw perusing the Ann Taylor store at the Beverly Center won’t be the last. The spring line is chock full of chic, silk trench coats, slim cut blazers and slouchy camp shirts in a color palette of dusty grays, ivory and plum that would suit various wardrobes and budgets.

-- Melissa Magsaysay

Photos: looks and accessories from the Ann Taylor holiday collection/Ann Taylor

Shopping, Weekend Update: Little Tokyo's No. A grand opening, Splendid and Three Dots sample sales

Max Padilla — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:00:00 -0800

No. A, boutique in Little Tokyo, is having a grand opening party today (Nov. 20). The store stocks affordable contemporary collections for men and women such as Corpus, Ulrika Sandstrom, Rojas and Costume Dept. plus accessories from Alex & Chloe and Boos & Besitos. All merchandise will be 10% off this evening only and the first 100 patrons receive a gift bag. Ice cream sandwiches will be served along with an open bar. DJ Aaron Castle from Rhonda provides the soundtrack.

374 E. 2nd St., Los Angeles. (818) 259-6155. 8 to 11 p.m.

Sample Sales

Splendid Today (Nov. 20) through Sunday (Nov. 22): While Splendid debuts its Robertson flagship, the sportswear brand is also having a sample sale to clear out past season merchandise for women and kids. Labels on sale include Ella Moss, Splendid Mills, Girl, Junior and Littles. Credit cards, including American Express, accepted.

860 S. Los Angeles St., 8th Floor, Los Angeles. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Today and Saturday. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Plastic Island Today (Nov. 20) through Sunday (Nov. 22): Contemporary women’s brand discounts, current and previous season looks by 80%. Prices start at $10 up to $80.

1385 E. 15th St., Los Angeles. (cross street Central Avenue) (213) 749-0900. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Today and Saturday. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

Isabel Lu/Lucca Couture Today (Nov. 20) and Saturday (Nov. 21): Contempo women’s collection, stocked by trendsetting boutique Satine, is clearing its samples stock with a warehouse sale. Everything is $1 to $25. Cash only.

629 E. 30th St., Los Angeles. (cross San Pedro Street). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Three Dots Saturday (Nov. 21): Dress line designed by Pegah Anvarian holds a tent sale with every dress $50 in sizes XS to XL. Cash only.

340 Lampson Ave., Garden Grove. (714) 799-6333. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

-- Max Padilla

Photo: No. A boutique. Credit: No. A

Chanel Iman gives tips for the next Ford Supermodel

Max Padilla — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:30:00 -0800

Eons before “America’s Next Top Model,” Ford Models for 30 years has been conducting a global search annually to scout new faces. One lucky gal gets to take home a $250,000 modeling contract with the agency.

Past Ford Model contestants have included big industry names such as Gemma Ward, Elsa Benitez and Alexina Graham. L.A. gal Chanel Iman represented the United States at the 2006 Supermodel of the World finals.

On Saturday, Ford Models is casting for the American contestant simultaneously in Los Angeles and New York. The L.A. search is taking place at the W Hotel in Westwood from noon to 4 p.m., where scouts will be taking digital snaps, interviewing contenders and noting catwalking skills.

One winning contestant will represent the U.S. at the world search finals in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

If you’re interested in attending, you can still sign up here.

Iman gives All the Rage readers exclusive tips on how to prepare for the modeling contest.

All the Rage: Best outfit for the competition?

Chanel Iman: You should wear something simple, like jeans or a miniskirt and your favorite top. Skinny jeans and a tank is the best look -- you can see your figure.

Makeup tip?

With makeup, it’s better that you wear almost none. You can use a little bit of concealer and maybe some balm, but that's about it. Definitely clean skin with great moisturizer is ALWAYS best.

Hair?

I would pull my hair back, so they can see my face.

A few no-nos, especially for L.A. girls?

There are no real no-nos. Just be yourself, have fun and enjoy the experience.

How does the Ford Supermodel of the World competition differ from reality TV shows?

This is real fashion -- it’s not scripted for the cameras. And you don’t need to be crazy to get noticed!

How soon did your life change after winning the competition?

My life changed immediately!!! I totally haven’t stopped since entering with Ford. It’s been amazing and I’m loving it.

-- Max Padilla

Photo: Chanel Iman at Marc Jacobs spring 2010 show. Credit: courtesy Ford Models

Stella McCartney to play it again for GapKids

Max Padilla — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:51:34 -0800

Stella McCartney’s collection for GapKids and BabyGap was such a chart-topper that McCartney has signed on to design a second kids collection for the San Francisco-based chain to fill store racks next March.

Apparently, the customers had enough Beatles nostalgia for the $128 Sergeant Pepper-ish boys military jacket which was a sellout according to Marka Hansen, Gap Brand president.

“The combination of her unique aesthetic and our brand’s experience in children's wear has resonated with our customers around the world, with certain styles including the Miller jacket being a sellout success,” said Hansen, in a company statement. “We’re thrilled to be working with Stella on a spring collection.”

-- Max Padilla

Have your say: How much is too much for kid’s clothes?

Photo: Stella McCartney for GapKids Miller jacket, superhero T-shirt, sweat pants and sneakers.

Courtesy: Gap

Shopping Thursday Update: Vans Comix Party, WeSC warehouse sale, Morgane LeFay trunk show

Max Padilla — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:00:00 -0800

On Thursday, Vans, the legendary sneaker brand based in Cypress, throws a Comix Party at Conveyor at Fred Segal Santa Monica to celebrate the work of R. Crumb, Robert Williams and Rick Griffin. Cocktails served; DJ music provided.

420 Broadway, Santa Monica. (310) 458-2800. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Sample Sales

WeSC Warehouse Sale Thursday, Nov. 19, through Saturday, Nov. 21: L.A. by way of Sweden sportswear brand is having a huge sample sale in time for the holidays. Current and past season styles, including denim and jackets, will be heavily discounted. Generic Surplus footwear is also on offer. Credit cards accepted. Two hours free parking is available in LAX Lot B.

11099 S. La Cienega Blvd., No. 170, Los Angeles. (310) 670-5190. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Trunk Shows

Morgane LeFay Trunk Show Thursday, Nov. 19: New York-designer holds the last of a two-day Spring 2010 preview at its Montana boutiques, with a special 15% discount on all stock during each event. Prices start at $180 and go up to $4,200 for Morgane Le Fay’s frothy creations.

1404 Montana Ave., Santa Monica. (310) 393-4447. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday. www.morganelefay.com

Irit Design Trunk Show Thursday, Nov. 19, and Friday, Nov. 20: Savannah boutique hosts a preview of this handmade-in-Malibu jewelry collection featuring recycled silver and rose-cut diamonds ($1,500 and up). Ten percent of sales will benefit the Westside Food Bank.

706 Montana Ave., Santa Monica. (310) 458-2095. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

-- Max Padilla

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Style Obsession: Striped nautical shirts

Melissa Magsaysay — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:41:41 -0800

Anyone who knows me has figured out that I’ve got an obsession with navy-and-white-striped sailor tops. I wear them at least once a week, have about seven in heavy rotation, from $30 H&M to APC at $180, and am always looking for more.

This Halloween when looking for a last-minute costume (I was a sailor -- surprise!), I stumbled upon a rack full of vintage Russian Navy shirts at the Surplus Store in Culver City. The shirts are original, perfectly slouchy and don’t wrinkle and shrink like the others. Plus, they’re only $11, which means I bought several so I still have spares for when the others are being washed.

Navy-and-white-striped boat neck shirts are so classic paired with preppy khaki slacks or second skin leggings and slouchy boots (as I’ve been wearing them lately). In the spring, I’ll tuck them into high-waisted denim shorts for a '40s vibe.

If you love a striped top as I do, stop by the Surplus store and scoop up a vintage Russian Navy shirt and let me know how you wear your stripes.

Surplus Store, 10341 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles 90034

-- Melissa Magsaysay

Photo: So happy in my stripes. Credit: Marilyn Ruiz / Los Angeles Times

Ed Hardy sample sale starts Friday

Whitney Friedlander — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:53:02 -0800

Ed Hardy offers a sample sale this weekend in Culver City that's heavy on the denim.

Prices are reduced from wholesale on Ed Hardy, Christian Audigier, Z-Brand and L'Ecole des Femmes for men, women and children (starting at $20). Major credit cards accepted.

6315 Arizona Place, Los Angeles. (310) 670-2290. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.donedhardy.com

-- Max Padilla

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Steven Alan’s take on the perfect travel bag

Melissa Magsaysay — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:56:31 -0800

Getting frustrated with schlepping heavy and lopsided luggage through the airport terminal, when all you really want is to look effortlessly chic while traveling just like Angelina Jolie? (Though come to think of it, I’ve never actually seen her toting around any cumbersome bags.)

Cool, bi-coastal retailer Steven Alan went to Australia to get inspired by the country and the travel experience. Now he’s in the process of making the perfect bag, based on places he went while Down Under, making sure it’s got all the compartments, straps and reinforced seams he thought would make packing and lugging much easier, not to mention stylish.

He’s still in the sketching and developing phase and welcomes your feedback as to what you’d like to see appear on a perfect bag. Visit his blog to check out the bag and comment.

The bag is set to hit Steven Alan stores and www.vaustralia.com this January.

-- Melissa Magsaysay

Sketch for the perfect travel bag by Steven Alan

Commune's Community Shop sells locally-made gift ideas, including L'Oeil du Vert scents and Clare Vivier bags

Max Padilla — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:08:31 -0800

Commune, the design firm behind the Ace Hotel and Swim Club in Palm Springs, opens its Community Shop this Saturday (Nov. 21) stocking wares made by American artisans, mostly all handmade. Commune also runs an online Community Shop.

The Community Shop is located inside Commune’s studio on Robertson (next door to the Christian Louboutin boutique).

Some of the goods offered are Clare Vivier’s bags, Free City apparel, L'Oeil du Vert scents, Atwater Pottery and Tanya Aguiniga’s jewelry plus Commune’s own houseware collaborations with Heath Ceramics, sculptor Alma Allen and others.

Community Shop plans to open a store at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs in January.

650 N. Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 855-9080. 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; 2 to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday or by appointment.

-- Max Padilla

Photos: L'Oeil du Vert Carmot Fragrances; Community Shop logo. Credit: L'Oeil du Vert / Commune

'1 in 1,900' T-shirts protest policy and personalize odds in breast cancer screening

Adam Tschorn — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:08:13 -0800

To me, what Monday's announcement from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (suggesting that women under the age of 50 don't need regular mammograms) seemed to lack was personal perspective. Anyone who has suffered through breast cancer -- or had a loved one who has -- will probably tell you that performing 1,900 preventive mammograms to save the life of one woman isn't too big a hurdle.

If you feel otherwise, save your vitriol for someone else. I'm not a scientist, an economist or a government flack. What I am, however, is someone who appreciates how quickly the wheels of commerce (even charitable commerce) can turn in the Internet age.

About 15 minutes ago, my sister-in-law sent me a link to cafepress.com/1in1900, where T-shirts are already for sale that hammer home what those odds really mean. White T-shirts emblazoned with the pink ribbon that's become the symbol of the battle against breast cancer, the shirts bear the words: "I Am the One in 1900 " at the top and the words "My life was saved by preventative breast cancer screening."

Other versions personalize the odds with "My Friend Is the 1 in 1900," "My Mother Is the 1 in 1900," "My Sister Is the 1 in 1900," "My Daughter Is the 1 in 1900" and "My Wife Is the 1 in 1900."

All proceeds from the $19.99* T-shirts benefit the American Cancer Society, which quite publicly continues to recommend annual screening using mammography and clinical breast examination for all women beginning at age 40.

What do you think the odds are they'll sell a heck of a lot better than the "I Followed the New Screening Guidelines and All I Got Was This Lousy Breast Cancer" shirts?

-- Adam Tschorn

*[UPDATED 11/19/2009: In an early version of this post, the price of the T-shirts was incorrectly listed as $14.99.]

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Sophie Théallet wins CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund

Adam Tschorn — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:21:24 -0800

Womenswear designer Sophie Théallet was named the winner of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund in New York City last night, with jewelry designer Monique Péan and menswear designer Patrik Ervell named as runners-up.

The sixth recipient of the top honor, Théallet will receive $200,000, with Pean and Ervell each receiving $50,000, to help the emerging designers pursue their design plans.

You may not be familiar with Théallet's name (you can read a full bio from the designer's website by clicking here), but there's a pretty good chance you will. Past winners of the top prize are Alexander Wang (2008), Rogan (2007), Doo-Ri Chung (2006), Trovata (2005) and Proenza Schouler (2004).

-- Adam Tschorn

Photo: CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner, designer Sophie Théallet, right with hairstylist to the stars Frédéric Fekkai center and Fekkai's wife, Shirin von Wulffen, at the last night's awards dinner in New York City. Credit: Dimitrios Kambouris / Getty Images for Vogue

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A fashionable turnout to MOCA's 30th

Adam Tschorn — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:41:14 -0800

Drawing the international jet set, the Museum of Contemporary Art's 30th anniversary festivities this weekend were a reminder of how cozy the art and fashion worlds have become. Miuccia Prada kicked things off Friday night with a party at her epicenter on Rodeo Drive. All of the merchandise had been removed from the store, and the walls were covered in book-print wallpaper to celebrate the launch of the designer’s new tome, which documents the fashion house’s work on the runway and in film, art and architecture.

The same synergy was at work at the MOCA NEW gala Saturday, where Prada designed the costumes for a performance art piece created by her friend, Italian artist Francesco Vezzoli. Lady Gaga, in a crystal-mesh dress and a silver crinkly crown designed by Frank Gehry, played her song “Speechless” on a bright pink, butterfly-festooned piano customized by Damien Hirst as members of the Bolshoi Ballet twirled in tutus, also designed by Prada. (Nevermind that Michael York stumbled over Miuccia's name while introducing the work, described as the Ballets Russes, Italian-style.) The hat and costumes, as well as masks designed for the performance by Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, are up for grabs in an online auction that ends Nov. 30, with proceeds benefiting the museum.

The event, which raised $4 million, was co-chaired by philanthropist Eli Broad (museum savior, who rescued MOCA from financial ruin earlier this year) and arts advocate Maria Bell, gallery owner Larry Gagosian and Russian-born art wunderkind Dasha Zhukova. Grand Avenue was closed to traffic to make way for the enormous party tent with a marquee entrance. The dinner's theme was Russian, with shots of vodka and pickled vegetables at the tables and Russian propaganda-style posters lining the walls.

Zhukova (above right), who is the girlfriend of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, the editor of British fashion magazine Pop, and half of the design team for denim label Kova & T *, looked radiant (at 7 ½ months pregnant) in a spidery black macrame and crochet fringe Rodarte dress. The Russian beauty is a new star in the art collecting world, having founded the Garage Center for Contemporary Culture in Moscow in September.

Rodarte's Kate and Laura Mulleavy sat at Zhukova's table, along with designer-photographer Hedi Slimane and 13-year-old blogger Tavi Williams (who told us, at the previous evening's Prada event, that she had been personally invited by Zhukova).

At the pre-dinner cocktail party (with music "curated" by Pharrell Williams -- is it just us or is "curated" just a fancy way of saying "built a playlist"?), we ran into Los Angeles designer Jeremy Scott, wearing a leather harness on top of his tuxedo jacket that perfectly played off his Mohawk coif, and chatted briefly with celebrity blogger Perez Hilton -- who told us with some measure of glee that though the glittery hoodie he was wearing was from American Apparel, he was really excited about the outfit he'd assembled for the upcoming American Music Awards. He described it as a "kind of but not really sailor suit": white with navy blue accents from Moods of Norway, white Doc Martens and hair dyed "Gwen Stefani blond."

Guests at our table included John Legend, dashing in a Prada tuxedo and bow tie, and his girlfriend, model Christine Teigen, who had to be sewn into her peach-colored, asymetrically draped Prada cocktail frock. She was having a problem with the zipper, she said, and luckily the Bolshoi Ballet’s tailor was on hand at the Prada store to help prevent a wardrobe malfunction.

Other party people included Katherine Ross, wife of Michael Govan, director of the L.A. County Museum of Art, who wore a black gown with a hand-pleated bodice by L.A.’s J.C. Obando; Vogue West Coast Editor Lisa Love chose a black sequin Yves Saint Laurent tuxedo; Elizabeth Wiatt in a painterly sheath by Erdem Moralioglu; and actress Marisa Tomei (on the arm of Decades' Cameron Silver) in vintage pink Jean Desses. Angelina Jolie (in a black velvet strapless Armani Prive gown) and Brad Pitt (in a Tom Ford tuxedo) came and went before the gala began, telling photographers they had to attend a friend's wedding.

After the Damien Hirst-decorated Steinway & Sons. piano was auctioned off for $450,000, the cool kids decamped to an after party at the Prism Gallery in West Hollywood. (The Prism, founded by 23-year-old Australian gallerist and artist PC Valmorbida, opened on Thursday night with yet another shindig). On the way in, we chatted with Nicky Hilton, who was all a-sparkle in a short black sequin Bob Mackie dress she borrowed from her mother. “She just gave me all of this stuff by Mackie. I love it,” she said.

Designers Angela and Margherita Missoni were there, as was Tom Ford — complaining about the lighting in the cramped VIP party in the old restaurant space next door. (Now that he’s a film director and all.) For a few moments we cooled our heels next to Neil Patrick Harris, who seemed to be valiantly trying to stand out of harm's way as VIPs swarmed the porch with the urgency of spawning salmon headed upstream.

At one point the lights on the VIP veranda flickered off for a few seconds -- reminding us a bit of the opening moments of the evening's centerpiece (the full title of which was "Ballet Russes Italian Style (The Shortest Musical You Will Never See Again") and then went dark.

When they came back on, and we found ourselves butt-to-butt with Eva Mendes and Brian Grazer, elbow-to-elbow with Takashi Murakami and bust-to-bust with Rose McGowan, it felt for all the world like the evening's performance art hadn't really ended when Lady Gaga left the stage.

It had just entered a second act.

-- Booth Moore and Adam Tschorn

*[Updated 11/17/09] An earlier version of this post incorrectly stated that Dasha Zhukova was no longer designing the label Kova & T.

Top photo: Lady Gaga, in a Prada dress and Frank Gehry hat, performing at the MOCA's 30th anniversary gala. Credit: Anne Johansson / For The Times.

Second photo from top: Dasha Zhukova in Rodarte. Credit: Wire Image.

Third photo: Marisa Tomei in vintage Jean Desses. Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images.

Fourth photo: Designer Jeremy Scott. Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images.

Bottom photo: Rose McGowan in Donna Karan. Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Are you the world’s next top supermodel?

Melissa Magsaysay — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:41:20 -0800

No, Tyra won’t be jumping out with some wacky costume for you to wear in this competition. The Ford supermodel of the year competition is much more conventional than the sensational reality shows in which average women try to claw their way to “supermodel” status.

At the open casting, on Saturday at the W Hotel in Westwood, wannabe models will have their snapshots taken and walk for Ford agents. This weekend's winner will represent the U.S. in the world finals in Sao Paolo, Brazil. And the winner of the world competition will receive $250,000 and a contract with Ford.

But just like a little show called “American Idol,” you don’t necessarily have to take first prize to launch a successful career. Past runners-up in the Ford competition include Chanel Iman and Alexina Graham -- both uber-models of the moment.

Think you’ve got what it takes to rule the runway? Register here.

--Melissa Magsaysay

Gale Parker's Clothespin opens in West Hollywood

Sophia Kercher — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0800

On a champagne-soaked Thursday evening last week, Gale Parker’s Clothespin opened with cheerful laughs and a multi-generational crowd perusing her new store. The upscale West Hollywood locale on Melrose Avenue is Parker’s first store, but the New Yorker is far from being a novice in fashion. The designer once served as model/muse for the likes of Valentino and Yves Saint Laurent, as well as the design director for Ralph Lauren women’s collection.

Parker’s vibrant printed dresses, blouses and skirts looked like items girls would steal from their mother’s closets on a warm summer day. It’s easy to picture a wispy surfer girl walking down Abbot Kinney in a Gale Parker design, or a Malibu mom lounging by the playground in the loose comfort of Clothespin’s feminine wares.

“My mother and Teen Vogue’s blogger Jazzi McGilbert both came in here and wanted everything. Can you believe it?” said Noelle Valdivia, a member of the Clothespin team. The designer explained that her idea for the cross-generational collection came after she won her battle with cancer and felt the need to create. Inspired by her "green" architect husband, she wanted to do something eco-friendly, and so the green Clothespin was born. All of the collection is California-made, with labels sewn right down the street from the shop in Gale’s apartment, and the materials are never-been-worn vintage fabrics from the 1940s.

“Places you go have become so homogenized; I wanted to bring it back to the custom level,” Parker said.

Every item in the store is one of a kind. The designer trotted all around the globe for the materials, which includes lively "conversational" prints (a nod to Chanel), vintage buttons and lace. Parker and her design team offer custom-made dresses from Clothespin’s assortment of over 200 fabrics. The shop will also happily fashion a new outfit from a customer’s beloved old dress or fabric.

Parker boasts that her clothing is made for all body types, with an emphasis on fluidity.

“There’s pockets in everything. I love walking around like a guy and not carrying a bag around,” the designer said.

A large Andy Warhol portrait of a young Parker looks over the Clothespin store. The designer, who hasn't lost the radiance of her youth, has been on many journeys since her NYC beginnings. In Parker’s Clothespin store, her collected wisdom on the importance of sustainability, vintage design and comfort has found a home.

Blouses, $300-$400. Dresses $400-$700. Custom dresses $1,000.

Clothespin, 8654 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood. (310) 967-0108 Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. or by appointment.

-- Sophia Kercher

Photo: Gale Parker (center right) talks prints with Noelle Valdivia. Credit: Billy Zeb Smith

Scotty, beam us down to Payless to get our Starfleet-inspired kicks

Adam Tschorn — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:30:00 -0800

Back in May, we told you about a limited-edition "Star Trek" X STPL X Airwalk high-top sneakers that were being released -- just 160 pairs in futuristic metallic silver with NCC-1701 embroidered on the heel, an example of how the future of apparel branding will involve the mining of TV and movie properties.

Now the other shoe has dropped with a full line of Starship Enterprise-influenced high-top sneakers beaming down to the shelves of a Payless near you, and Payless.com.

Like the limited kicks, this collection was designed by artist Jeff Staple (STPL), and the suede-with-canvas-accent shoes are served up in three Starfleet-uniform-inspired colorways of gold, blue and red and bear the triangular Starfleet insignia instantly recognizable to anyone who watched the 1966-69 sci-fi series.

At $49.99 they're a heck of a lot cheaper for the "Trek" fan on your holiday list than the $2,900 "Authentic James T. Kirk Captain's Chair" we recently spotted in the Hammacher Schlemmer catalog.

-- Adam Tschorn

Of Trekkie kicks and Cobra Snakes

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Photo: The STPL X Airwalk Hi Skate "Star Trek" Starfleet Edition ($49.99) boldly goes where no Enterprise crew member has gone before -- the aisles of Payless -- in colors inspired by the gold (command), blue (science) and red (security) uniforms of the Enterprise crew. Credit: CBS Consumer Products