Who says people in fashion don’t eat? Because we do…sometimes. Well, instead of eating food, Karl Lagerfeld opted to hold a fashion show among an elegant dinner setting for the debut of Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2012 collection. The garments encompassed the fine craftsmanship we love about Chanel coupled with the creativity we love about Lagerfeld. For the season’s looks Lagerfeld drew inspiration from India. Many of the models donned traditional style Indian head pieces, which were blinged out to the max- the collection is named, Métiers d’Art.

Style.com dubbed it, “all the Raj” and went on to report, “The theme “Paris-Bombay” was a reminder that Europe’s fashion industry has increasingly turned to India to produce extravagantly handworked pieces as it has become prohibitively expensive to make them at home. Lagerfeld’s fiendish plan was to flip the equation, so that everything that looked intricately Indian was actually made by Chanel’s ateliers in Paris.” But what’s even more interesting is that Lagerfeld has actually never visited India. ”It’s much more inspiring not to go to places than to go,” he told Style.com. Uhmm…really? Because, we’d like to physically visit a destination to be inspired by it more.

Anyways, on to the show! The collection was obviously a hit with the jeweled accents along with the use of silks and tweed. On the catwalk Lagerfeld walked out alongside mature modeling maven Stella Tennant (above). Mother daughter duo Yasmin Le Bon (42) and Amber Le Bon (22) both walked in the show for a unique bonding experience. Front row, Bollywood starlet Freida Pinto showed her support. A-list models Kasia Struss, Arizona Muse, Crystal Renn, Anja Rubik, and even muse Baptiste Giabiconi got in the fun with a turban on the elegant catwalk.

(via Style, Telegraph, Wireimage)

Los Angeles-based designer Louis Verdad has experienced some major ups and downs with his eponymous line. However, the newest collection to come from this creative mind literally wow’d us, and the rest of the audience. The designer opted for the casual setting of a West Hollywood art gallery to debut his spring/summer 2012 collection. He had quite the stylish turnout, because in all honesty it’s a smart a idea to host a fashion event well after the madness of fashion month has passed. Full of springtime hues, jeweled details, and colorblocked to perfection, his line boasted everything from red carpet gowns to everyday ready-to-wear.

In the past his pieces were slipped on by major celebrities including Madonna, Cate Blanchett, and Christina Aguilera and now Verdad is reviving his brand with help from his Latin roots to appeal to the luxury market. You don’t have to be A-list to wear his dresses either, as his garments are frequently spotted in department stores and high end boutiques across the country. Verdad says it best himself, “Fashion is emotional… it creates a cultural statement of status and taste, where style plays the leading role…”

Well… more than a few pieces from his show were leading role ready! A few of the standout looks included a gold leafed skirt, colorblocked brights, and a stunning gown with a pleated colorful surprise under a sheer floral print. Sorry fall knits, spring needs to come soon so we can add these looks to our closets.

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To sum up the looks, there’s a shirt with an abstract illustration of Rihanna’s face, two pair of jeans (one dark, one light), a rockin’ motorcycle jacket, and of course, a logo tee. Oh and let’s not forget the sexy little lace number, a navy blue bra and panty set that I’m sure ladies would like to have in their Christmas stocking. The pieces, which were made public today, will be in stores in time for holiday shoppers.

The question is, given Emporior Armani’s high price points, will Rihanna fans and customers shell out big bucks for the capsule collection? Or perhaps, they’ll be smart and wait until after Christmas to purchase the goods, which will most likely end up on sale? Would you purchase any of the items below?

Congratulations to designer Joseph Altuzarra for winning the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Monday night in New York at the Skylight Soho. He was a candidate last year as well, but proved that second time’s a charm. From the fund Altuzarra will receive $300,000 to help grow his flourishing business. He wasn’t the only one to take home a prize either runners-up Shane Gabier & Chris Peters of Creatures of the Wind and Pamela Love of Pamela Love Jewelry were awarded $100,000. The winner and runners-up will all receive specialized business counseling meet regularly with a mentor based on their needs and resources. The CFDA and Fashion Fund are all about helping talented designers reach their full potential creatively and professionally. We look forward to seeing more of Altuzarra’s collections.

Of course with all CFDA events the entrances were just as anticipated at the awards. Our favorites include Doutzen Kroes, Anna Wintour, Joe Jonas (why was he there?), and actress Olivia Wilde.

The full nominee list includes:

A.A. – Antonio Azzuolo
ALTUZARRA – Joseph Altuzarra
CARLOS CAMPOS – Carlos Campos
CREATURES OF THE WIND – Shane Gabier & Chris Peters
CUSHNIE ET OCHS – Michelle Ochs & Carly Cushnie
FINN JEWELRY – Soraya Silchenstedt
FENTON / FALLON – Dana Lorenz
OHNE TITEL – Alexa Adams & Flora Gill
PAMELA LOVE JEWELRY – Pamela Love
SUNO – Max Osterweis & Erin Beatty

[via CFDA]

If you needed anymore proof that designer collaborations are getting out of hand, then just take a look at Japanese clothing brand Bossini’s new Toy Story pop-up collection. The clothes, which would be fantastic for Halloween, are even weirder than the concept. Apparently, the Buzz Lightyear aliens are the biggest draw with an purple pocket dress and an oversized shirt dedicated to the out of this world creatures. On kids the pieces are adorable, but on adults they just have an awkward feel, or maybe I’m too uptight and need to walk around with an alien on my shirt to loosen up! Although, if you want to walk around with a giant Woody on your shirt, then go for it!

I guess this proves that Japanese style is literally more animated than it is out west.

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For more visit Bossini’s official website.

What happens when you combine classic elegance with a modern edge? You end up with designer Lisa Michelle Felsenthal and her eponymous collection. This Los Angeles-based talent is an Otis graduate who’s resume is equally impressive as her work. She previously interned with Jeremy Scott and Michelle Mason and then designed for Monique Lhuillier. In 2008 she launched her own line, which encompasses luxurious fabrics and flattering silhouettes. We recently chatted with the designer to learn more about her work and design process.

You originally set out to study art history, has this interest translated into your fashion designs?
My background in art history definitely finds its way into my designs. I have always been interested in the connections between art and fashion, particularly in terms of sculpture. Ancient Grecian sculpture and drapery is a huge influence in my clothing design in the most recent collection.

Other times, the art historical influences on my designs, take place on more of a subconscious level. From my studies, I have this visual library in my memory of inspirational images and works of art that I am always drawing from.

Designer, Lisa Michelle

Where did the inspiration for your latest collection stem from?
This last collection had a number of different inspirations. A mix of sculptural and Grecian drapery, in combination with flapper styles from the 1920’s, inspired the collection. Aspects of art deco architecture were a great source of inspiration for the accessories collection. I wanted the beading in the headbands, cuffs, and belts to mimic the geometric patterns in art deco architecture, while also capturing that glamorous aspect of the 1920’s.

How do you approach accessory design vs. clothing design?
I do approach clothing and accessory design in different manners. The accessory collection is fairly new, as this is my first full season. It’s a whimsical process of collage and layering different trims to create rich and unique textures, within the accessories. I’m always experimenting with different sewing techniques and appliqué. I focus on the details of each piece right away.

When designing clothing, I either start sketching and draping directly on the mannequin to come up different styles. The draping process can be very experimental too and just seems to evolve organically. Sometimes, I begin with a sketch of a particular idea and the process of draping leads to many other versions and silhouettes. Although they are different, I try to approach both the accessories and clothing in an artistic manner, as I strive to make each piece special and unique.

As a Los Angeles designer, what are your thoughts on LA’s design scene and it’s influence on global trends?
By showing my line in different events, I have met a number of emerging LA designers that are creating their own unique products. So, I think that LA has a thriving design scene because there are a lot of opportunities to create and showcase your product here. LA has an environment where designers and artists can really express different personal styles in a creative and open manner. All these different styles and new products, which are put out in LA have an impact on global trends.

Who are some of the fashion designers (past and present) that you find yourself looking up to?
As for present day designers, I am always intrigued and inspired by Alber Elbaz’s collections for Lanvin. I love the shapes, styles, and embellishment techniques in the line. Marc Jacobs is another favorite designer of mine. As for past designers, Madame Vionnet is someone that I find myself looking up to. Her unique drapery and pattern work has been influential to me, as I always trying to experiment with bias drapery. She created so many unique, elegant, beautiful and modern styles through her use of drapery. She is a designer that I truly admire.

Do you have any pieces of jewelry that you can’t leave the house without?
I always like to accessorize and add a statement necklace or jeweled cuff, from the collection, to my outfit. It gives my look a little sparkle and adds a certain touch.

Lastly, what advise do you have for aspiring fashion industry hopefuls?
I would advise aspiring fashion designers to do what they love, create new collections and just face challenges as they arise. Overall, creating my own line has been one of the most challenging and satisfying experiences of my life.

We commend Lisa on her success and a big thank you goes out to her for taking the time to talk with the MyFDBlog.

G-I-V-E-A-W-A-Y

Since accessories are always all the rage in the office, we wanted to share the love and give our readers the chance to
win one of Lisa Michelle’s popular cuffs. Up for grabs is a sparkly black and gold Metallic Floral Cuff (retail $85), which will match any outfit.

TO ENTER:

Sorry, this contest is now closed. Our latest contest is on the sidebar to the right, thank you!

Official Rules: This contest is open to international entrants and a valid email address must be submitted to be eligible. Entrants will be entered into MyFDB’s email list. A winner will be chosed at random and notified via email. This giveaway closes November 30th at 1:00pm (PST) time. For more information on Lisa Michelle please visit her official website.

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is like a lingerie party on steroids. It’s laid out like a typical fashion show, but goes wild with a glittered catwalk, models wearing next to nothing, and extreme winged creations. Celebrities, rock stars, editors, and bloggers all flock to the fantasy world VS creates. This year proved to be even more over the top than ever!

Even though the show doesn’t air until November 29th, we found ourselves entranced by all the dramatic and colorful lingerie. For a fashion show, there’s not much clothing, but there’s a TON of creativity and model crushes. We’re so proud of darling Karlie Kloss (bottom right), who walked in her first show. Meanwhile, Miranda Kerr (bottom left) is no stranger to the glitz and was given the coveted position of sporting a $2.5 million bra. Yowza! The sexy Doutzen Kroes wow’d the crowd after giving birth just a mere nine months ago. Supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio (top) of course show’d all the girls how its done! And everyone let out an “aww” when singer Adam Levine (below) escorted his real life love, Anne Vyalitsyna down the catwalk as he sang. He wasn’t the only one behind the mic, Nicki Minaj, Kanye West (with a surprise appearance by Jay-Z) all had their turn. Of course, in true Victoria’s Secret fashion it was the models who came out on top and celebrated with a confetti-filled finale on the catwalk.

The lingerie themes for this year’s show included superhero styled designs, dramatic dark pieces, and under the sea, and ended with a disco PINK party! Experience the fun before the air date by browsing our image gallery below.

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(images via HuffPo, Fashionista)

Hailing from a creative background most people wear New York pride on their sleeve, but designer Sabina Les wears it around her neck. Her luxe collection of scarves carry a deep-rooted architectural influence inspired by the city that never

sleeps. Rapidly growing in notoriety her pieces are a must-have for stylists and her creations are frequently spotted in Elle magazine. A simple scarf can completely transform an ensemble, so we had to twisted up with Sabina to learn more about her eponymous line.

You’ve been into fashion your entire life, but what made you want to venture into the accessories market with scarf design?
I was thinking about starting my brand with something that I haven’t designed for anyone else. And at that time I was looking for a new silk scarf and I couldn’t find a design that was distinctive, contemporary and classic. Then it hit me that it was the Universe’s way to show me that I should start with designing scarves as my brand’s first category!

Bright colors and an architectural influence are just a few of the many ways we can describe your bold prints. Are there any specific international landmarks or destinations that inspired your designs?
Yes, current collection is very much inspired by architecture in Downtown New York City and the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The colors inspiration came from NYC’s skyline and nighttime in Amsterdam and Paris. I’m developing new designs that are homage to NYC’s most famous landmarks.

How often do new Sabina Les scarves rollout?
Planning on four times a year and special editions in between.

Wearing scarves other than around your neck can be tricky. Do you have any creative styling tips?
I have many styling tips. My best advice is to experiment and refer to scarf styling tips on my website. For instance, besides tying a scarf around your neck any of my square scarves can be styled to look like you’re wearing a long scarf, a headscarf, a few versions of tops or even as a bag.

Very cool! Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring designers?
Fashion is a tough business and takes a lot of perserverance and a realistic understanding of the fashion industry. You’re only as good as your team of people and try to avoid “me me me and my ego” attitude if you want to be successful in a long run.

CONTEST

Amazing architectural influence and a huge thank you to Sabina Les for taking the time to speak with the MyFDBlog. Since scarves are the pretty way to add some fashion to your winter wardrobe, so we’ve partnered with Sabina Les for a giveaway. One MyFDBlog reader and Twitter fan has the opportunity to win Les’ signature print “Profiles Icon” scarf (retail $125).

To Enter: Make sure you’re following both @MyFDB and @SabinaLes on Twitter and then using the style guide above fill in the blank below.

I’d style a @SabinaLes scarf as a ______. @MyFDB #contest

Official Rules: This contest is open to US residents only and closes on November 14th at 1:00pm (PST). Multiple entry tweets are permitted and one winner will be chosen randomly and notified via direct message on Twitter after the close of the contest. Thank you to Sabina Les for partnering with MyFDB and providing the prize, for more information about her work please visit her official website.

First he brought us fruit shaped tulle creations on the catwalk, now designer Walter van Beirendonck‘s work is being featured in Wonderland magazine. The editorial oh so perfectly titled, “Walter’s World” shows readers the zany scope of his designs. All of the clothing featured is from different seasons of and can be interpreted however. You can’t see model Jeremy Guindo in the shot above, but the exaggerated piece he’s wearing kind of reminds us of a fashion condom…anyone else catch the resemblance?

Moving on, we end up seeing what Guindo looks like with the exception of a large green beard. Photographer Damon Baker captured all of these artsy shots and we love seeing Guindo take on a new character with each look.

See more of Beirendonck’s designs by viewing the rest of this editorial on MyFDB.

Professional Credits:

Having been designing since a young girl and then running her own shop at just 19, Suss Cousins is no stranger to the design game. Known for her intricate knitwear, this creative mind has a thriving women’s line along with a business creating costume pieces for Hollywood’s hit films. With the weather getting chillier in Los Angeles, we recently got cozy with Cousins and her knitwear collection.

At just 19 you were already making a name for yourself with a boutique in Sweden. As a female designer, what prompted you to start creating and selling knitwear for men?
When I had my store in Sweden, I designed and made men’s sweaters for my store. I have always been very inspired by men’s clothing. Even in the way I dress I am drawn to the detail, feeling and look of men’s. But when I moved to America, I started kids when I had my daughter and had a “kids” collection for many years. Then I started “women’s,” my women’s collection is very inspired by men’s and continue to be so. Eventually, I would love to expand to a men’s division in my company and to venture into “home” as a lifestyle.

Fast forward to your life in Los Angeles, how did the creation of your women’s knit line come about considering it isn’t exactly cold in Southern California?
I started it in New York City, we moved here to Hollywood because my husband is an actor. Doing different weights and t-shirts create a variety of items sellable all throughout the years and different seasons. Also we do wholesale so our items are shipped everywhere.

From The Matrix to The Grinch, you’ve worked on costume design projects for some exciting movies; which film projects have been your favorites thus far?
How the Grinch Stole Christmas, it was an 8 months project. I made 250 pieces for the movie and the people I worked with were amazing.

As someone who as lived all over the globe how do different cities inspire you creatively?
I guess I was born with a vivid mind. Everything inspires me! I love to create! To think of designing something new every day. Every city has a different vibe, I get inspired by textures, colors and the energy.

What are some staple knit pieces every woman should own?
One of my 2 ply cashmere wraps in black.

Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?
To believe in yourself…..and not to be afraid to go for your vision, if it’s meant to be it will happen

Fantastic advice and a huge thank you to Suss Cousins for taking the time to talk to MyFDB. For more about her, please visit her official website.