Nancy and Harry’s Shindig

. 18 comments.

Scene: Harry King and Nancy Donahue at their fun event at Slate in New York City. It was the perfect Friday evening for a fashion reunion! Their parties have stayed true to a musical beat. The vibe was upbeat and happy as the DJ spinned Studio 54 dance music pumping up the buoyant mood. The attendees mingled over cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and music. It was a get-together full of joy, celebration, and conversation. Guests included art directors, bloggers, family and friends, fashion designers, hairstylists, magazine editors, makeup artists, models, photographers, producers, public relations, stylists, and other industry greats and notables. Talented, wonderful, and fun people. The mood was festive. Another stellar night with Nancy and Harry at their shindig!

Scene: Loris Diran, Gildo Spado, Esma Korn, and Tony Spinelli.

Scene: Joey Hunter and Karen Lee-Grybowski.

Scene: Rodger del Valle, Renaldo Barnette, and Barry Weinbaum.

Scene: Lisa Zari and Vivian Scalia Dash.

Scene: Nancy Donahue, James Bosco, and Harry King.

Scene: Rashgene Gazi-White, Yasmine Guenancia, Deborah Hughes, and Rob Walter.

Scene: Tony Spinelli and Jade Albert.

Scene: Gretchen and Steven Maginnis.

Scene: Joanne Russell and Sandy Linter.

Scene: George and Yasmine Guenancia.

Scene: Nancy Donahue, Constance von Collande, and Harry King.

Scene: Joey Hunter, Debbie Dickinson, and Freddie Leiba.

Scene: Mitch Klien and Rob Kaplan.

Scene: John Warner and Denise Walch.

Scene: Russell Dash and Vivian Scalia Dash.

Scene: Mother and daughter, Carolyn Rea and Jennifer Backus.

Scene: Harry King and Tony Spinelli.

Scene: Ricardo Marin and Joshua Kokeny.

Scene: Nancy Donahue and Gretchen.

Scene: Yasmine Guenancia and Gildo Spado.

Scene: Ricardo Marin and Sandy Linter.

Scene: Terry Foster and Donald Eckert.

Scene: Ricardo Matinez and Harry King.

Scene: Robert Vordi and Deborah Hughes.

Scene: Gloria Dare and Jim Roderick.

Scene: Mike McGuire and Andy Fuhrmann.

Scene: Rashgene Gazi-White holding Andy Walhol bust, Karen Lee-Grybowski,and Duane Gazi-White.

Scene: Steven Feldman and Diane Smith.

Scene: Joanne Browne, Alberto Ferreras, Ken Browne, Harry King, and Constance von Collande.

Scene: Liz Temkin and Bob Menna.

Scene: Loris Diran, Gildo Spado, Esma Korn, and Tony Spinelli.

Scene: Nancy Donahue, Joey Hunter, and Karen Lee-Grybowski.

Scene: Ruthie and Richard Warren.

Scene: Bonnie Pfeifer Evans.

Scene: Yasmine Guenancia and Vivian Scalia Dash.

Scene: Sandy Linter and Dan Brennan.

Scene: Ja’Dee Murphy and Nancy Donahue.

Scene: Flo Kirley and Stephanie Shulman.

Scene: Scott Martin and Elijah Vielma.

Scene: Juan Gamboa and Lisa Ernst.

Scene: Rob Kaplan and friend.

Scene: Gina Nanni and Jeffrey Vanwoods.

Scene: James Bosco and Nancy Donahue.

Scene: Constance von Collande and Ja’Dee Murphy.

Scene: Dustin Pittman and Alva Chinn.

Scene: Debbie Dickinson and Harry King.

Scene: Rodger del Valle and Barry Weinbaum.

Scene: Tony Spinelli, Jade Albert, Joey Hunter, and Debbie Dickinson.

Scene: Dan Brennan and Ann Marie Mobley Lieberman.

Scene: James Bosco and Joanne Russell.

Scene: Freddie Leiba and Phillip Bloch.

Scene: Gina Nanni and Duane Gazi-White.

Scene: Maurice Tannenbaum, Helen Murray, and Drareni Chekib.

Scene: Joey Hunter and Debbie Dickinson.

Scene: That’s me with Joanne Russell. Photo James Bosco with my camera.

Scene: Pat Tracey and Joe James.

Scene: Nancy Donahue and Dustin Pittman.

Scene: Rochelle Mello, and Roderick Plummer with Alva Chinn dancing.

Scene: Roderick Plummer with Alva Chinn.

Scene: Joshua Kokeny, Sandy Linter, and Ricardo Marin.

Scene: Rochelle Mello and friends.

Scene: Joanne Russell and Dan Brennan.

Scene: Bonnie Pfeifer Evans and Alva Chinn.

Scene: Karina and John Verni.

Scene: Ingrid Carleton and Barbara Tate.

Scene: Guests.

Scene and Heard: Young Hearts Run Free.

Scene: Dancing the night away…

Scene: Harry King.

Scene: Big photo bomb by Pat Tracey with Alva Chinn and James Bosco.

Scene: Pat Tracey and Joe James.

Scene: Ramy Gafni.

Scene: Ann Marie Mobley Lieberman, John Verni, Karina Verni, and James Bosco.

Scene: Mike McGuire, Paul Morejón, and Andy Fuhrmann.

Scene: Joanne Russell, Sandy Linter, and Yasmine Guenancia.

Scene: Rahul Nag with Janet Wolfman in the background.

Scene: Janet Wolfman and Rahul Nag.

Scene: Kissy Mentovay and Max Herrera.

Scene: Sarah Stavrou and Renaldo Barnette.

Scene: Man-Laï Liang, Xavier Griffiths, and Lea Pelloux.

Scene: Nancy Donahue and Dustin Pittman.

Scene: Flo Kirley and Stephanie Shulman.

Scene: David Noh and friend.

Scene: Alva Chinn and Bonnie Pfeifer Evans.

Scene: Jennifer Backus and Joe Ryan.

Scene: Duane Gazi-White and Rashgene Gazi-White.

Scene and Heard: Last Dance.

Scene: A pair of Jimmy Choo Heels on the dance floor.

Scene: Nancy and Harry. Thanks for another wonderful party, Nancy and Harry!






NYFW Naeem Khan

. 4 comments.

Scene: The Naeem Khan Spring Summer ’24 collection at New York Fashion Week. The theme was To India My Love. The show was a heartfelt homage to the colors, culture, and craftsmanship of India which inspired the vibrant tapestry of the designer’s homeland, where beauty and diversity, tradition and innovation intertwined seamlessly on the runway. A true marriage between East and West.
Talent for the show: Hair by key hairstylist Jon Reyman and team for Aveda complemented Naeem Khan’s vision with elegant back braids with strong parts, a fusion of Indian heritage and high fashion achieved with artistry — Couture Indian Princess. Key makeup artist Georgi Sandev and team enhanced the collection with gold eyeshadow and glowing skin with d’Alba global skincare and especially by using their White Truffle First Spray Serum. Key nail artist Julianna Dahdura, Founder of Deco Beauty, and team applied matte gold and high chrome look nails. Stylist Anna Katsani. Jewelry Sterling King, Bonheur Jewelry, Uncommon Matters, Alexis Bittar, and Ben-Amun By Issaac Manevitz. Undergarments Commando. Shoes Alexandre Birman. Location Naeem Khan’s Showroom. Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Special thanks to Helen Oppenheim, hair historian, archivist, and blogger, for asking me to collaborate during Fashion Week.






NYMD PM

. One comment.

The PM Shows at New York Men’s Day Spring/Summer 2024. The start of New York Fashion Week begins with New York Men’s Day (NYMD). While focused primarily on menswear (including genderless and unisex), NYMD gives up-and-coming designers an opportunity to showcase with visibility This was the 10th installment of NYMD, a showcase of menswear collections which in some cases also included women’s wear. The biannual fashion initiative was founded by Agentry PR. Presenting sponsor Hilldun and returning sponsor De’Longhi along with Vitamin Water and Smart Water at Location 05 and Daylight Studios. Five designers showcased their presentations at NYMD that afternoon, TheSalting, Tarplay, Raleigh Workshop, Skyco, and Sebastien Ami. All unique with their own vision.

Scene: TheSalting’s presentation. Founded by Michael Ward and Michael Smaldone in 2018, with co-owner Manel Garcia Espejo joining in 2020, the brand aims to bring unisex clothing with a focus on craftsmanship to consumers. The collection was classic modern with a twist in lightweight linens in pastels, opaque colors, and navy blues. The breezy airy vibe reminded me of walking on the beach by the seashore. The bucket hats added another dimension to the collection and the sandals reinforced a causal walk at a ocean town while boutonnieres pinned to labels gave whimsical breathe of fresh air. The stage was raised platforms channeling the boardwalk. Simple styling and beautiful details.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Ashley Brecken and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb, First Assistant Monique Marquerite, and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Jewelry Sasha Samuel , Boutonnieres Megan Guip for Wilhem NYC Florals, Footwear Nomadic State of Mind, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Scene: Tarplay’s presentation Softwear. Conceived by Brooks Jones, he has transitioned from the idyllic expanses of Tennessee to the artistic hubs of New York City. This brand is an embodiment of a spirit of both tranquil fly-fishing in Montana and the dynamic art parties of New York. Some other characters the models represented were, a gardener, a hiker, a bird watcher, and a skateboarder, illustrating his line can be worn during a variety of activities. The brand specializes in garments crafted with innovative technologies that meld avant-garde design, groundbreaking materials, and craftsmanship with a sustainability and environment conscience. Innovative materials such as apple leather, abaca leaf, bio nylons and linens, have been incorporated into many of the pieces.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Mandee Tauber and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Stylist Tarpley Brooks Jones and Marisa Jones, Photos Fred J. DeVito.
Photo above and below model representing a Tennessee farm boy.

Scene: Raleigh Workshop’s presentation The 1/1 Collaboration. Founders and married couple Sarah Yarborough and Victor Lytvinenko showcased a unique collection celebrating its legacy of denim craft, quality, and tradition. Denim is the core of its business. The North Carolina based brand have separated themselves from the inundation of fast fashion through meticulous handcraft and styling. This collection explored how denim can be created and worn in different ways. Using different techniques, the looks ranged from patchwork to deconstructed styles with vibrant color blocking, bright patterns, and contrasted stitching patterns. The collection both reimagined denim while paying homage to the traditions of the fabric.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Katie Manselle and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Watches Giles Clement of Clement Design Studio, Footwear Justin James of Opie Way, Photo seventeen and eighteen courtesy of Raleigh Workshop, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Scene: The label on his forehead reads — Made in USA of Imported Fabrics, 55% Cotton 45% Linen, RN 142257, R1 – 20, When the Time Comes, Mend or Donate.

Scene: Skyco’s presentation The Running Man. The quests were intrigued as they viewed the collection of Creative Director and Designer Skylar Hertz with its vibrate colors and graphics. There was a feeling of the Pop-Art movement of the late 1970’s and the graffiti subculture of the 1980s with an artistic jumble of typography, newspaper imagery, and illustrations. It was fun and playful. He experimented with his design language to create this collection which took over a year to formulate for his brands first showcase. His passion for design started in his dorm room, teaching himself how to use a sewing machine that he rented and some YouTube videos.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Christian Ceja-Copin and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Stylist Julianna Yao, Jewelry Dinosaur Designs, Footwear Puma and Dr. Martens, Photo two, seventeen through nineteen are courtesy of Skyco, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Scene: Sebastien Ami’s presentation Camping. A luxury menswear company with a unisex lens established by designer Sebastien Amisial and co-directed with partner Marianne Amisial. The collection was a homage to not only the aesthetics of nature, but the sense of community cemented by excursions in the outdoors. The color palette of the collection was inspired by a 1966 photograph of Mt. Ranier. Muted colors and old-school fabrics. Their fabrics are sourced from Italy, Japan, and the United States. The goal of the house is to create timeless pieces that carry no gender or season classification. Every item is crafted with the intention to create timeless design, with a traditional outlook of an heirloom.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Kien Hoang and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb, First Assistant Monique Marquerite, and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Stylist Christopher Cambell and Mia Hurley, Bags in collaboration with Chantel Le, Footwear Merrel, Camping Accessories Snow Peak, Photo fifteen courtesy of Sebastien Ami, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Special thanks to Helen Oppenheim, hair historian,  archivist, and blogger, for asking me to collaborate during Fashion Week.






NYMD AM

. 6 comments.

The AM Shows at New York Men’s Day Spring/Summer 2024. This was the 10th installment of NYMD, a showcase of men’s wear collections which in some cases also included women’s wear during New York Fashion Week. The biannual fashion initiative was founded by Agentry PR. Presenting sponsor Hilldun and returning sponsor De’Longhi along with Vitamin Water and Smart Water at Location 05 and Daylight Studios. Five designers showcased their presentations at NYMD that morning. Four of them are represented below. The fifth, A.Potts, was featured in my last blog story.

Scene: Kent Anthony’s presentation Make ‘Em Say Your Name. His experience as a track and field athlete inspired this collection with insights from his lessons learned on the track.
Cropped shirts, collared jackets with curving lines, and high-waisted pants were form-fitting, embracing physicality, and were complemented by gold jewelry, symbolizing victory.
“Working with the physical elements of the tracks, you’ll see a strong vertical line in the striping as well as the beading and roping, which feels a little bit more theoretical. It’s about the energy of the collection” Anthony said.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Emily Dancy and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Stylist Alioune Badara Fall, Jewelry Senia by Christina and Gina Senia, Florals Ali Waller and Camrym Calder, Footwear Florsheim, Photo ten courtesy of Kent Anthony, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Scene: Clara Son’s presentation Emergence Capsule. Tapping into her fear of clusters of circles was the inspiration for this collection. Trypophobia is a repulsion to repetitive patterns of holes. Last time I covered her show it was about aversions to bugs.
“I think fashion is a great medium to bring that negativity and turn it into beautiful artistry” Son said.
Small white spheres were scattered on the floor as models appeared to walk in figure eights. The design elements of mail coifs, mesh textiles, and knotted rope loopings on clothes, with silver circles applied to faces and silver hoops in the hair, reinforced the concept of the collection. The silvers complimented the color palette.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Christian Ceja-Compin and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Stylist Nyeelah Lewis, Jewelry Eva Thora Art, Footwear Merrell, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Scene: Designer and founder of B|M|C, Brandon Murphy’s presentation Statuesque. He showcased suits which were tailored to perfection with fine fabrics, distinguished colors with a luxurious and classic elegance with an edgy sensibility.
In an interview with the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Murphy shared how his intimate relationship with fashion has changed how he interacts with the world.
“I adore my imagination and the escapism of fashion, which gives you the freedom to dress however you want and become anyone you want. Fashion serves as a comfort blanket for me, protecting me from being overwhelmed by everything” Murphy said.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Coby Alcantar and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Stylist Raymond Gee, Eyewear Port Tanger, Footwear B|M|C, Photos Fred J. DeVito.

Scene: Terry Singh’s presentation Where Fashion Ignites Fearless Identity. Crafted with precision and care, the New Suit is a fusion of diverse cultures and a bold challenge to preconceived notions of masculinity. It features the dhoti, a traditional Indian garment adapted into the collection, symbolizing freedom and self-expression. More than just a garment, the couture suit is a revolutionary concept that redefines the very essence of men’s fashion. Singh believes that a suit with a skirt can be worn for a multitude of occasions. Casual to very formal. The designs mixed delicate sheers and light skirts with fine tailored menswear.
“We’re addressing a social need for a young man in Brazil that likes to dress but can’t wear a skirt. It is that simple. I just create a love for this young man in Brazil who is marginalized by culture” Singh said.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Jenelle Oldham and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Burn Beauty products. Terry Singh’s Creative Director Padina Bondar, Designers  Nicholas Colon and Angelina De Jesus Solomon, Footwear Dr. Martens, Photos six through twelve courtesy of Terry Singh, Photos and video Fred J. DeVito.

Special thanks to Helen Oppenheim, hair historian,  archivist, and blogger, for asking me to collaborate during Fashion Week.






NYMD UrbanEarth

. 7 comments.

Scene: A.Potts’ Spring/Summer ’24 genderless collection entitled UrbanEarth was presented during NYMD (New York Men’s Day). An exploration of the intersection between urban environments and the natural world. Nature coexisting harmoniously within the bustling cityscape.
The color palette was anchored in black, white, and indigo, offset by both neutral and vibrant hues, including a deep mustard and a metallic gold. The Sprigs Embroidery pattern in various colors and garments was an ode to nature. The warm Goldleaf and the vibrant Tangerine outfits were inspiring.
Aaron Potts’ signature jumpsuits and drop-crotch pants returned with nods to utility and comfort, which Aaron describes as “Werkwear”. This season came the additions of more body-conscious styles. A modern and upbeat spirited collection grounded in a city and earthy sensibility.
Talent for the show: Hair by lead hairstylist Kien Hoang and team for Oribe utilizing Oribe hair products. The key hair look was the use of gold safety pins with braids. Makeup by lead makeup artist Michelle Webb, First Assistant Monique Marquerite, and team for Augment Tokyo utilizing Fawn and Burn Beauty products. The key makeup look was rich color eye shadow, and bronze and brick eyeliner. Stylist Memsor Kamarake, Eyewear Kimeze, Jewelry Eva Thora Art, Shoes Andre Assous and Dr. Martens, Producer Leetah McGee, NYMD presenting sponsor Hilldun and returning sponsor De’Longhi, Public Relations Agentry PR, Location Daylight Studio and Location05, Photos Fred J. DeVito.
Photo above: Indigo Denim Tab Mini with Andre Assous heels and Indigo Denim Werksuit and Convertible Totebag with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Keen Khalid wearing Artisan Jacket, Acid Topover, and Painter’s Pant with Eva Thora Art jewelry and Dr. Martens.

Scene: Tangerine Tank Top and White Seersucker Zoot Pants with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Tangerine Tank Top with Eva Thora Art jewelry.

Scene: Tangerine Ruffle Swingdress with Andre Assous heels.

Scene: Tangerine Seersucker Werksuit and Rainwear Aircoat with Eva Thora Art jewerly and Dr. Martens.

Scene: Graphic Backstripe Gown with Andre Assous heels.

Sceen: Khoudia wearing Goldleaf Parachute Gown.

Scene: Goldleaf Werksuit with Kimeze eyewear.

Scene: Goldleaf Werksuit with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Chocolate Sprigs Embroidery Shorts and White Poplin Tie-neck Tunic with Eva Thora Art jewelry and Dr. Martens.

Scene: Indigo Denim Zoot Pant, Reversible Topper and A.Potts x Eva Thora Studio Art Tee with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Keen Khalid wearing Artisan Jacket, Acid Topover, and Painter’s Pant with Eva Thora Art jewelry; Trevon Makel wearing Acid Cargo Tunic Werksuit with Eva Thora Art jewelry; and Isaiah Criswell wearing White Poplin Cargo Tunic. All wearing Dr. Martens.

Scene: Goldleaf Topover and Shorts with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Black Sprigs Embroidery Shirt and White Seersucker Zoot Pants with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Black Sprigs Embroidery Werksuit with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Chocolate Sprigs Embroidery Topover and Black Sprigs Embroidery Painter’s Pants with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Chocolate Sprigs Embroidery Topover with Eva Thora Art jewelry.

Scene: Olive Bra-Back Tank Dress with Andre Assous heels.

Scene: A.Potts x Eva Thora Studio Art Tee and Black Zoot Pants with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Goldleaf Topover and Shorts with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Goldleaf Capecoat with Dr. Martens.

Scene: Khoudia wearing Goldleaf Parachute Gown and Convertible Tote. 

Special thanks to Helen Oppenheim, hair historian,  archivist, and blogger, for asking me to collaborate during Fashion Week.