fashion

Fashion and Technology: Diana Eng on CNN’s The Next List

Diana Eng is an American Fashion designer who gained popularity on the second season of the hit show Project Runway. Unfortunately, Diana was eliminated on the sixth episode, The “Nicky Hilton Party Dress” episode. Although she did not make it to the winner’s circle on Project Runway, her talent and ingenious designs have certainly won the attention of fashion lovers and nerds alike.

Diana Eng is best known for her innovative and technological designs, yes I said technological. Diana says she like to, “look at technology, math and science and how to integrate it into fashion designs.” Diana Eng has surely brought technology into the fashion world with her thermochromic scarves. Thermochromic you ask? Scarves that change color and design according to the weather! She has designed a scarf that when the temperature is below 64 degrees snowflakes begin to appear, and as the temperature decreases, say below 38 degrees, the size of the snowflakes increase and the pattern slowly engulfs the scarf. It is truly magical to watch and one of a kind. Below is a video from CNN’s The Next List and shows the science of the scarf.

http://cnn.com/video/?/video/tech/2013/02/19/exp-the-next-list-diana-eng-preview-1.cnn

I just checked out Diana Eng’s website and I am officially obsessed! She has some amazing items featured. You must check out her website!

http://www.dianaeng.com

Below are a few of the items that really sparked my interest.

FortuneCookie — Diana Eng Fortune Cookie Purse

The above Lady Bug pin is featured on CNN’s The Next List’s Blog.

The Fibonacci Scarf utilizes the famous math formula known as the “Fibonacci Sequence.” Basically the sequence involves adding the next number to the previous. For example, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21,… The Fibonacci sequence occurs in nature and Diana Eng used the sequence to knit this impeccable scarf.

Diana Eng is the definition of a unique designer. Her mix of fashion and science are remarkable. In a field where being inventive and forward are keys to being successful, Diana Eng undoubtedly brings something original to the fashion world. Personally, I look forward to watching her career develop and am fascinated to see what new technologically ground-breaking designs she will come up with next. CNN is going to be featuring Diana Eng on their show The Next List this Sunday at 2:30pm. I’ve caught this show a few times and admire the way CNN features a new innovator or idea each week. The subjects of the show are not always well known but definitely deserve to be. You can also check out their blog if you happen to miss an episode.

http://whatsnext.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/19/high-tech-meets-high-fashion/

Follow The Next List on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenextlist

Follow The Next List on Twitter: @cnnthenextlist

DJ DIRTY SOUTH ALBUM RELEASE; Art Design Contest

by Ryan Shea

Talenthouse recording artist Dirty South just announced he will be releasing his first full-length studio album, Speed of Life. This Serbian-Australian DJ/Producer has been on the house music circuit for a few years now and has racked up plenty of positive recognition and attention. In 2008, he was nominated for a Grammy, in the Best Remixed Recording category for his recording of, fellow Tech-House DJ, Kaskade’s Sorry, and then again, in the same category in 2011 for his collaboration with Axwell for the Temper Trap’s Sweet Disposition.

Since his recording career began, Dirty South has been racking up merits from a number of respected house music sources. He is well known in the acclaimed InTheMix 50 DJ Poll’s, voted “Most Popular Producer Nationally” in 2007 as well as ranking 2nd in the 2007 InTheMix 50 DJ Poll. Let’s not forget that in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJ poll every year since 2007.

So now that you know a little bit about this insanely talented DJ/Producer (just in case you) let me get to my point…In honor of his album release Dirty South is inviting artists to compete to design artwork for a limited edition tee-shirt that will be sold through his online store. Having a design on an internationally sold clothing item is a great accomplishment for even the most seasoned artists, but even if you are just an aspiring artist or just have a talent for design and art this could be your open doorway! Not only will the winner’s design be printed and sold, they will also receive a trip to VEGAS, a two night stay at The Wynn Las Vegas & Encore Resort, and a meet and greet with Dirty South himself.

To enter view Talenthouse‘s website at:

www.talenthouse.com/design-for-dirty-south

Winners will be announced March 5th and the deadline to submit is Tuesday February 26th!

I’m very honored to be the one to let you all know about this exciting opportunity and, as an art lover myself, look forward to voting and seeing the winning design! And don’t forget the winner will be announced the same day as Dirty South’s album release!!

Give The Gaudy Grandma A Whirl: A HonestFrugalChaos Style

by Ryan Shea

A ‘bit too much’ jewelry styled outfit is a love of HonestFrugalChaos… called the Gaudy Grandma style. If done right (by avoiding the ‘I’m wearing all the jewelry I own’ look) it can actually be a very fabulous look. Think of it as if your Grandma raided your closet but still piled on the clip-ons and pins for the early bird special! It flirts with ‘over the top’ which is why I love it!

Valentine, Hint-Of-Lime, and Office: Two Obsessions and A True Love Of HonestFrugalChaos Style

by Ryan Shea

HonestFrualChaos would first like to wish all my fashionistas of Manhattan a Happy Valentines Day! Let’s keep this love going with HFC’s two obsessions of the week and one true shoe love. When we’re talking about fashion there is always love! Enjoy my loves and flavors of the week!

New York Men’s Fashion Week Launch Party!

by Ryan Shea

: Credit to Jason Jaskot

Fashion week is in full swing here in New York City! Regardless of Nemo coming in and trying to ruin our good time, people still showed up in their best to support and watch the amazing designs of several different designers. This past Saturday was no different. The launch party for “New York Men’s Fashion Week” took place at the Roosevelt Hotel in the heart of New York

City. The designers featured were Janet Zheng, Andrew Nowell and Ray Vicente.

As a newbie in the fashion world, I have to say I was very impressed by each of the designers. Their aesthetics were on point in terms of the what each designer was going for. Ray’s line definitely had an international feel to it, with rich uses of the color green. Andrew’s line was more of the norm you would see in an issue of GQ but with an amazing addition to it- fur accessories such as shoes, hats and gloves. Not a fur fan myself, but it did look interesting paired off with the suits each of the men wore. To finish the night off. Janet had some amazing designs with jackets amongst other items with a great use of purple and white. All in all, it was a great show.

WM Michael Reid did an amazing job emceeing the event, giving great introductions to each of the designers and giving them time at the end of each of their shows to talk to the press and audience. Check out for more of New York Men’s Fashion Week as a separate event, as that launches in June.

Boobs or Snooze; The 2013 Grammy Awards

by Ryan Shea

This year’s Grammy awards brought out an array of fashion. Despite CBS’s comical dress code, the stars still looked hot this year. CBS sent a notice that the attendees of the Grammy awards should not wear anything revealing; no plunging necklines, side boobs, or butt views. Although CBS tried to control the fashion, many artists clearly disregarded the networks warnings. This is the 2013 Grammy Fashion review.

One artist who visibly paid no attention to the dress code was Katy Perry. Perry’s revealing mint green Gucci dress was skin tight and the peep hole at her chest was anything but censored. Her cleavage was fully exposed! The dress was unattractive and Katy Perry looked a little undone. Not her best.

Another artist who ignored the no “bare skin’ rule was Kelly Rowland in Georges Chakra. The fitted black gown was beautiful and had many, many revealing lines. If she moved the wrong way all of her naughty parts would have been on display. Thankfully there were no slips, but it was obvious Rowland was unfazed by the clothing regulations this year.

Kelly Rowland Grammys — Kelly Rowland at the 2013 Grammy’s

I have to admit I was slightly let down by the fashion at the Grammy’s this year. Nothing really astounded me. That being said, there were a few celebrities whose choice of dress was beautiful and warrants mentioning.

My best dressed this year goes to; Rihanna!

Rihanna Grammy's — Rihanna at the 2013 Grammy’s

I must admit I fully expected Rihanna to completely go against the dress code and shock us all, but she decided to keep it tasteful. The singer rocked a dazzling red Azzedine Alaia gown, sheer panels’ criss-crossed over the chest and haltered on the neck. The skirt was full and flowing chiffon. She looked elegant and still made a statement.

Carrie Underwood looked striking last night. She was put together from head to toe. The strapless Roberto Cavalli gown hugged her curves and accentuated her toned arms. The pattern on the dress was elegant and the beading on the skirt was breath taking.

Carrie Underwood Grammy's — Carrie Underwood at the 2013 Grammy awards

Faith Hill really surprised me this year. The knee length frock she wore fit her perfectly and the sheer, embroidered top was lovely. The lace jacquard on the skirt was so subtle you could barely see it. This J. Mendel dress looked stunning on Faith Hill.

And now for my favorite part of the Grammy’s… the WORST DRESSED. The Grammy’s always brings out some of the most outrageously heinous fashions. And, oh, they did not disappoint me this year! I’ll try and narrow it down to my top 5 this year.

#5 – Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez Grammy — Jennifer Lopez at the Grammy’s

J.Lo’s dress looked like a hefty bag. The cut out for her leg to stick through made no sense!

#4 – Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman Grammy's — Nicole Kidman at the 55th annual Grammy awards

Her dress aged her and the muted colors washed her out.

#3 – Adele

Adele Grammy's — Singer Adele at the 55th annual Grammy’s

I feel wretched naming Adele as one of my worst dressed, but the pregnant Grammy winner looked like she was wearing curtains!

#2 – Solange Knowles

Solange Knowles Grammy's — Beyonce’s little sister Solange

Beyonce’s younger sister looked like a cracked out Diana Ross. The sparkly green dress was cheap looking and the orange heels were horrible.

#1 – Ashanti

Ashanti Grammy — Ashanti at the 2013 Grammy Awards

Ashanti’s floral dress was too revealing and looked cheap.

Lastly, I want to shout out a few of the men who rocked it last night…

Country cutie Hunter Hayes looked handsome in his Hugo Boss black suit.

Justin Timberlake rocked his Tom Ford suit and had all of us ladies swooning.

The fashion at the Grammy’s this year was toned down compared to previous years. No one really amazed me. I remember tuning into the Grammy’s and being dazzled by the unique costumes the musicians would adorn. I look forward to the outrageous red carpet and can only hope that next year will be more eventful.

Janeration’s Fashion Show: Knits, Colors, and The Cashmere Touch Collection

by Ryan Shea

Bravo Jane and Anna. Bravo. Timeless, stunning touches of detail, and superb craftsmanship is what Janeration’s Ready-To-Wear hand knitted collection is bringing to the table for 2013. The Cashmere Touch collection is about color, embellishments, leather, textures, crocheting, and above all beautifully executed pieces. [Read more…] about Janeration’s Fashion Show: Knits, Colors, and The Cashmere Touch Collection

Queen Coco, One-Hit-Wonder, & Warped Tour ’04: Inspirations & Secrets of HFC Style for Repeat Outfit Annonymous

by Ryan Shea

Nothing is more unhealthy and so last season than being a Repeat Outfit Addict. HFC’s Repeat Outfit Addict is a babe who goes through the motions of wearing the same outfits with the only creativity of figuring out when she wore it last. FASHION TRAGEDY! [Read more…] about Queen Coco, One-Hit-Wonder, & Warped Tour ’04: Inspirations & Secrets of HFC Style for Repeat Outfit Annonymous

All that Glitters is gold, navy, floral : Fashion at the 2013 SAG Awards

by Ryan Shea

The SAG awards brought out some of the best actors in television and movies. And despite the gloomy weather, the fashion was glamorous. I noticed a few trends on the red carpet at the SAG awards this year.

Bridal wear was all over the red carpet. Stars like Kerry Washington, donning a Rodarte gown, and Sophia Vergara, in Donna Karan, looked chic in white. As did Naomi Watts in a stunning Marchesa beaded gown. Naomi Watts was one of the best dressed on the red carpet, in my opinion. Her gown was elegant and fit like a glove, the intricate beading was stunning, and her hair and make up were flawless.

Another look that flooded the red carpet last night was navy gowns. Les Mis actress Amanda Seyfried looked incredible in a navy Zac Posen gowen. The Strapless dress hugged all her curves and the exaggerated mermaid silhouette made heads turn. Another Hollywood starlet who rocked navy last night was Jennifer Lawrence. Jennifer Lawrence’s Christian Dior strapless gown was exquisite. The layered gown was a new take on a classic silhouette. Jennifer Lawrence brought home her first SAG award last night for her role in the Silver Lining’s Playbook and looked alluring and graceful doing it.

Florals were everywhere last night. Floral prints are definitely a trend to watch out for this Spring 2013 season, and the stars knew it. Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, and Ariel Winter all sported floral frocks. However, Julianne Moore’s Chanel Couture dress did not work on her. The white, low cut V-neck gown, with black contrasting floral appliques looked terrible on the actress. The top half did not fit and made her appear “saggy.” Also, the dress was too tight around her legs and she could barely walk up to the stage to accept her Actor. Overall, Julianne Moore was my pick for worst dressed of the night.

These were just a few of the trends that were headlining at the 2013 SAG awards. So many other amazing fashions were on display last night. Other trends I noticed were glittery dresses, contrasting black and whites, and thin waist belts. Before I finish this article I must point out one of my most favorite looks at the 2013 SAG awards. January Jones definitely wore the most bold gown of the night and her slicked back hair and bright red lipstick made her look like a rock star. The black and white Prabal Gurung gown had a unique neckline and the Mad Men star looked fierce. I would also like to point out my two best dressed men of the night. Ben Affleck looked insanely handsome in Gucci and Justin Timberlake’s Tom Ford suit and tie were perfect for the singer.

January Jones 2013 SAG awards — January Jones in Prabal Gurung at the 2013 SAG awards.

Justin Timberlake 2013 SAG awards — Justin Timberlake in Tom Ford

Finally, my best dressed of the night. Jessica Chastain looked absolutely regal in her red satin strapless Alexander McQueen gown. The dress fit her immaculately and the color looked brilliant against her flawless pale skin tone. Her loose wavy hair and toned down make up were impeccable. Jessica Chastain stood out last night at the 2013 SAG awards yet still wearing a classic silhouette and color.

Jessica Chastain SAG awrds — Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen at the 2013 SAG awards

Confessions of an Online Shop-Aholic

by Ryan Shea

Hello fellow fashion lovers. My name is Jessica and I am an online shopping addict. Well kind of, my new obsession this year is online shopping. With so many apps for your phone and shopping websites it’s easy to “ball on a budget.” I decided I should share some of my favorite online shopping finds with all of you.

First of all, my favorite iPhone app for shopping is WANELO. It is free to download and displays pictures of trending items daily. It’s kind of like Pinterest (another addicting iPhone app) but you actually get to buy the amazing finds. Prices on WANELO items vary because they are posted off of many shopping sites. But if you are determined you can weed out the bargain buys.

Recently my preferred place to do my online shopping is www.Amazon.com. Amazon has EVERYTHING! I always thought Amazon was just books, but I just discovered the array of products you can purchase on the website. I bought most of my Christmas presents from Amazon.com, everything from jewelry to clothing to toys for my brother. Amazon offers free shipping and most orders ship immediately and get to you quickly. My most current buy was a teeth whitening gel and UV light. I will let you know how white my teeth get.

Another incredible online shopping site is www.Storenvy.com. Storenvy is like the Wanelo app, on the iPhone, except it is online and everything on there is reasonably priced. The goods on Storenvy are from merchants around the world, so the selection is considerable and the fashions are unique. Storenvy exhibits products for women, men, and babies. They also market art, media, and tech gadgets. I have bought numerous items I discovered on Storenvy and have no grievances. Although the delivery time can be pretty long when you purchase from out of the country, the products have all been perfect!

To end with, my latest discovery is www.Tidestore.com. Because most of the items are sold as wholesale items TIDESTORE is an online clothing store that can sell clothes at inexpensive and affordable prices. Some of the items must be purchased in large quantities but most do not. This is one more site with clothing from around the world. I recently received an oversized gray, turn down collar, hoodie and am absolutely in hoodie heaven. Thus far, Tidestore.com has met all of my online shopping needs and desires.

My online shopping addiction has not caused any negative repercussions, yet, and because of the aforementioned apps and websites, has not made a huge dent in my bank account. I recently gained weight and shopping for new clothes, which fit and look good, has helped me accept my new shape. I hope you guys got something from this and feel free to comment any sites I haven’t tried or your feedback with the ones I mentioned.

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