Victoria Beckham Enters E-Commerce

VICTORIA BECKHAM has launched an e-commerce website today. While the label's former digital home served as a way of showcasing lookbook pictures of recent collections, the designer's latest site is the first time the brand has offered online shopping.

"My new website has been in the making for a very long time," said Beckham. "It was so important that the concept, tone and look of it were true to me and my aesthetic and that the shopping experience was the very best that it could be for my customer. The site will be ever evolving featuring never seen before insights into my world through the medium of film. I'm incredibly excited with what I have created and the unique access to the brand I am now able to offer."

The site is divided into two sections, Look and Shop. The first option gives users the chance to watch show footage, documentary content and browse collection inspirations and latest news, while the second category features the designer's handpicked selection of spring/summer 2013 pieces.

The website will sell Icon - a line of ready-to-wear dresses inspired by the label's most popular designs and available exclusively online - in addition to accessories, eyewear, denim and Beckham's contemporary line, Victoria, Victoria Beckham.  Customers will be able to shop from the UK, USA and Europe, although there are plans to expand to additional regions in the future.

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 ELLA ALEXANDER |  26 MARCH 2013  |  Article Link 

Beyoncé Leads New Gucci Empowerment Campaign

BEYONCÉ KNOWLES, Salma Hayek and Frida Giannini have launched a new Gucci global campaign for female empowerment, Chime For Change. The initiative aims to raise funds and awareness in support of projects for girls and women around the world, through sharing "powerful stories" about inspiring females.

"I have always felt strongly about equal opportunity for women. Girls have to be taught from early on that they are strong and capable of being anything they want to be," said Knowles. "It's up to us to change the statistics for women around the world. I'm honoured to be in the company of women who live fearlessly and set an example for the next generation of young ladies."

The campaign will be officially announced at the TEDxWomen luncheon today by Salma Hayek, who will present a short film detailing the aims of the scheme - narrated by the actress, and set to new music by Knowles (watch below). The video is the first in a series of ten Chime For Change short films featuring inspirational women's stories.

"I am proud to be joining the growing international movement on behalf of girls and women around the world," said Hayek. "I believe that by working together we can change the course of history to ensure that girls and women are empowered to realise their potential and thrive."

The Chime for Change campaign is also joined by an advisory board of experts and global advocates - including Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Jada Pinkett Smith, Francois-Henri Pinault, Gordon and Sarah Brown and Arianna Huffington. Gucci has a history of supporting women's rights movements - including a seven-year partnership with UNICEF in support of girls' education - as well as founding two female film awards; the Spotlighting Women Documentary Award and the Gucci Award for Women in Cinema with the Venice Film Festival.

"This is the emergency and the opportunity of today," said Giannini. "We have reached a significant moment in the history of girls' and women's empowerment and now is the time for change. I think it is essential for girls and women to see and celebrate what is possible. I hope that through Chime we can help the voices calling for change to become so loud that they cannot be ignored."

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SARAH KARMALI | February 28, 2013 | Article Link

British Vogue Nominated For Cover Of The Century

BRITISH Vogue's December 2001 cover, featuring Kate Moss, has been shortlisted by the Professional Publisher's Association (PPA) for the prestigious title of Cover of the Century.

The cover in question is entitled Royal Salute and stars Moss in an embellished tulle dress by Giorgio Armani, wearing a replica Coronation crown and holding a sceptre. The image, which was shot by Nick Knight and styled by Kate Phelan, was designed to fuse fashion with symbols of power in the lead up to the Queen's Golden Jubilee the following year.

The award is one of a number of events planned to mark the PPA's centenary in 2013 and will be voted for by the general public before the winner is announced on November 21. Voting is open now and closes on September 30 - you can vote here.

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SCARLETT KILCOOLEY-O'HALLORAN | February 27, 2013 | Article Link

David Gandy Shows Support for International Women’s Day

DAVID GANDY will show his support for this year's International Women's Day action on March 8, by participating in a panel discussion at the Women: Inspiration & Enterprise's annual symposium. The famous model and vogue.co.uk contributor will join political aide Alastair Campbell, designer Ozwald Boateng and Capital London radio presenter Dave Berry to talk about how men communicate in business. WIE creator June Sarpong and WIE contributor Margherita Taylor urged Gandy to take part.

"I hugely respect both Margherita and June and they inspire me with the projects and events they are involved in and their drive," said Gandy. "So of course, I jumped at the chance of joining the other people on the panel and supporting WIE."

The WIE event, which will be held at the Hospital Club, will bring leading names from politics, fashion, business and entertainment together to hold a series of talks and workshops to help inspire and empower women. Tickets are available now from wienetwork.co.uk and cost £250 per person.

"I'm really interested to hear the panel's stories of how they have become successful in their field," added Gandy. "Whenever people share their experiences you learn a lot - something that may resonate with you or inspire you.  There are many women in my industry who have built fantastic careers in modelling and continue to do so. They inspire me and I've learnt a lot by observing them and admiring what they have achieved. Hopefully, between us as a panel, we will be able to share things which may be of interest to the people in the audience or help them in the future."

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ELLA ALEXANDER | February 27, 2013 | Article Link

David Bowie Hires Tilda Swinton For Music Video

VOGUE cover girl Tilda Swinton stars in the video for David Bowie's new single, The Stars (Are Out Tonight). The track is taken from his highly-anticipated new album, The Next Day, which will be released on March 11.

Swinton appears as Bowie's wife, alongside Gaultier favourite Andrej Pejic and Burberry model Saskia De Brauw - who play a celebrity couple determined to split the happily married pair apart. As the song goes on, Swinton takes a more androgynous guise - bearing a resemblance to the pioneering musician in his younger years.

Floria Sigismondi served as director, while US cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth shot the video. The track "at once captures a 21st-Century moment in its convergence of age, gender and the normal/celebrity divide", as a statement on Bowie's website read.

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ELLA ALEXANDER | February 26, 2013 | Article Link

Dayang Dayang brings back memories of ’70s fashion scene

Dayang Dayang was the first exotic Filipina model that stood out on the Philippine fashion ramp in 1971 with her tall, lithe frame and dark exotic looks.

At that time, all the models were either beautiful top movie stars (such as Gloria Romero, Barbara Perez, Amalia Fuentes and Susan Roces) or the mestiza and similar-looking colegialas that grande dame Conchita Sunico and designers handpicked to represent their haute couture fashion shows here and abroad. The whiter the complexion, with Spanish or patrician features, the better. 

Ruby Umali was somewhat of a nerd in the University of the Philippines taking up chemistry and had no inkling of doing anything in fashion or design.  On a lark, she was brought by a classmate to then hip and au courant designer Dante Ramirez.  He seemed unimpressed with her looks as well as her height and all he asked was if she could walk gracefully — which she was unable to do the first time around since she had never thought of being a model despite her towering height of 5’9’, then considered super tall for a Filipina.  He also renamed her Dayang Dayang to further add to her exoticness.   

After briefly coaching her, Dante’s next instruction was to just copy the way Ping Valencia walked and projected on the fashion ramp. Every model wanted to move like Ping and every designer wanted her to represent them on the fashion ramp or onstage for fundraising shows.

It did not take long for Dayang to stand out among us and she soon caught the eye of British photographer David Charles who was almost 20 years her senior.  He was bringing her to the United Kingdon and that certainly did not sit well with Tita Conching as she looked after us Karilagan models like her very own and was wary of this older man.  She would make sure we were always properly chaperoned and looked after when we had modeling stints here and abroad to represent the Philippines.  If she felt any of our admirers were not up to her liking, she would say so in no uncertain terms. 

Dayang and David moved to the United Kingdom and eventually we all went our separate ways by getting real jobs that would jump-start our careers and pay us a salary (as modeling was considered more of a hobby then since we were unpaid), settled down with our respective families and even moved to different continents.  Lucky were those who were able to keep in touch with each other from time to time.

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The Philippine Star | Frannie Jacinto | Read More Article Link

Time to go swimsuit-shopping!

MANILA, Philippines - With the approach of summer also comes the ritual every woman looks forward to: swimsuit shopping. And Freeway gears up for this with the release of its summer 2013 swimsuit collection.

This year, it’s all about defining a woman’s shape and silhouette as the brand brings out lines, curves and cutouts as key highlights in its collection. The aim is to emphasize and bring out a sexier and more confident you. As for colors, Freeway’s summer collection boasts bold colors such as red, orange, purple and teal, matching the vibrant and colorful feel of summer.

Freeway not only focuses on the design, it also pays attention to how it will enhance and outline the body with its sporty silhouettes. With its range of monokinis, bikinis and separates, you’ll be looking fab and sexy while leading an active summer lifestyle.      

Apart from swimwear, Freeway also offers trendy summer pieces such as cover-ups, dresses, tops and bottoms, ideal for creating that fresh and fun vibe. Whether you’re sunbathing on the beach or having a barbecue party with your friends, Freeway’s summer pieces are sure to make you an instant trendsetter.

The brand’s Summer 2013 Swimsuit Collection comes out in March at Freeway stores nationwide.

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The Philippine Star | Article Link

Janine Tugonon champions true beauty as Avon's newest endorser

MANILA, Philippines - Janine Tugonon’s performance during the 2012 Miss Universe pageant, much like her beauty, captivated the imagination of Filipinos here and abroad. Social media went crazy as supporters cheered her on as she moved into the Top 16, Top 10, Top 5 and eventually, the final two.

A  woman of substance, she is most remembered for impressing the judges and audiences  worldwide  with  her  simple  yet  heartfelt  answer in the Miss Universe Top  Five  Q&A  portion:  “Being  Miss Universe is not just about knowing  how  to speak  a  specific  language,  it's  about  being able to influence and inspire other people. As long as your heart is deserving and you have a strong mind to show to people, then you can be Miss Universe.”

While USA went on to win the title, there is no doubt that Janine is the true winner in the hearts and minds of her countrymen.

So with her title firmly secured, it is evident that Janine’s strong will, sheer determination to succeed, and heart and passion for God make her the best ambassador for women, beauty, and class. And leading global beauty company Avon is right to notice her and make her its newest endorser for its fragrance, color, fashion jewelry, and watch lines.

“Avon is a brand I’ve known and patronized for years,” Janine says. “But more than the beauty products it offers Filipina women, I’m also impressed with the company’s  efforts  to  provide  earning  opportunities  for its Representatives,  and take  part  in  addressing  causes such as the fight against domestic violence and breast cancer.”

The 5’8” 23-year-old morena stunner from Bataan, who is also a licensed pharmacist and cum laude graduate from the University of Santo Tomas, admits that it wasn’t in her plans to become a beauty queen. But after learning that she was being considered for Bb. Pilipinas, she put her heart, mind, and soul to make her country proud.

Avon  Senior Vice President and President for Asia Pacific and Philippines, Bob Briddon, says of Janine:  “More than representing the Philippines in the Miss Universe Pageant, which she did very well, Janine also represents what Avon stands  for: beauty  inside  and  out.”   He adds, “She also inspires and influences others to make a difference so naturally, we are more than happy and proud to welcome her to the Avon family.”

Perhaps what adds to Janine’s appeal is her strong yet grounded characteristic. An active user of social media, Janine interacts with her followers on Twitter where, like most of us, she enjoys posting pictures of family, friends, and food.

Janine adds that fans and supporters also tell her via social networking sites how much her achievement has inspired them. While unsure at first how to respond to such praises, Janine has now come to see her position as a way to proactively encourage and motivate others to pursue their dreams.

“Social media is very powerful because the extent of your influence reaches different parts of the world,” Janine says.

When asked what advice she would give young ladies who wish to follow in her footsteps, she still answers with the same sentiment and the same strong conviction: “It’s going to be a tough task. But with hard work, determination, and a strong faith and relationship with God, you can do it.”

Barely two months into carrying out her new responsibilities as a reigning beauty queen, Janine is just beginning to savor the moment.

“Right now, I’m enjoying it so much. I really, really love what I’m doing,” she enthuses, smiling.

“I’m very much honored to be part of the Avon family,” Janine states. “I hope  to  put my  influence  to  good use by making the brand—not just its products,  but  its message  for  women  and the causes it stands for—more accessible  and  relatable to  Filipina  women  through  my  own  personal connection to Avon.”

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Dexter Rodrigo Matilla | The Philippine Star | February 24, 2013 | Article Link

Beauty in PureColor

MANILA, Philippines - Estee Lauder, one of the most renowned global beauty brands, celebrated the beauty of women in the PureColor Play event featuring its latest makeup line in Makati City.

Celebrity guests included Miss Universe ’73 Margie Moran-Floirendo, Brazilian models Fabio Ide, Daniel Matsunaga and Vanessa Matsunaga.

Hosted by Teresa Herrera with music from DJ Badkiss (Christina Baertgas) and DJ Meow (Mia Ayesa), the event was highlighted by a performance of Ballet Philippines and a fashion show featuring Jun Escario’s creations, which brought to life the video animation that unveiled Estee Lauder’s makeup collection.

The dramatic image mapping throughout the venue showcased Estee Lauder creative makeup director Tom Pecheux’s masterpiece in the limelight, giving guests a first look at his creation made for women all over the world.

Guests got to try Estee Lauder’s PureColor Lipstick, PureColor Eyeshadow Palette, PureColor Blush and the Vivid Collection (PureColor Gelee Powder Eye Shadows, PureColor Vivid Shine Lipstick), the PureColor Nail Lacquer with True Vision Technology — at the play and display booths manned by Estee Lauder’s makeup artists and nail technicians.

With its newest makeup collection, Estee Lauder stays true to her promise that “Every woman can be beautiful.”

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The Philippine Star | Article Link

Marianna G Swimwear Launches

INTRODUCING Marianna G - the new swimwear label to covet this spring/summer 2013. Masterminded by Marianna Goulandris - a shipping heiress and granddaughter of UNESCO ambassador Marianna Vardinoyannis - the brand's aesthetic is inspired by the designer's Greek heritage.

"I wanted people to see elements of the landscape, history and the ceramics in my designs," Goulandris told us. "Spending my time by the sea in Greece, swimwear became second nature to me. I recognised a certain vulnerability in women associated with swimwear, and that no matter their age or body type, women still need to feel comfortable when exposed. I felt that I had grown up in an environment where I had seen girls my age, mothers and grandmothers all in swimwear, so I had a good idea of what women look for."

Although Goulandris' parents are both Greek, she was born and raised in London. She studied fashion styling at the Istituto Marangoni and then moved onto the London College of Fashion to specialise in swimwear - where she was able to combine her passion for the beach attire with new technical skills. Marianna G's debut collection is split into four categories - goddess, athletic, brights and ready-to-wear - in order to cater to a broader customer bracket. Pieces come in the form of bikinis, one-pieces and dresses for wearing over swimwear once the sun dies down. The collection is available from Avenue32 and the label's online store.

"I really wanted to create a collection with broad age range and a variety of body shapes in mind, allowing every woman to find a piece that made them feel confident," she said. "The goddess section is exceptionally glamorous with its gold and pearl colour palette. The pieces are versatile and can be worn during the day and by night. Athletic is structured and sleek providing support, while remaining stylish. The brights are flirty and fun, incorporating the high-quality fabrics at entry-level prices."

Goulandris wants her designs to be seen as "the LBD of swimwear". In the future, she hopes to develop her business into a lifestyle label.

"It would allow my customers the opportunity to create their holiday wardrobe from one destination," she said. "My heritage will remain very important in the direction of the brand moving forward."

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ELLA ALEXANDER | FEBRUARY 25, 2013 | Article Link

Cara Delevingne Trademarks Her Name

CARA DELEVINGNE has trademarked her name. The Vogue cover girl registered her name as an official trademark with the Intellectual Property Office - giving her an exclusive right to use it as a marketing tool.

The model - who is currently appearing on the international fashion week catwalks - submitted the registration in December last year, reports The Sunday Times. The trademark prevents a wide variety of product ranges from being released under her name - unless she chooses to do so herself - ranging the usual handbags and perfumes, to the more unusual walking sticks, emery boards and umbrellas.

The business-savvy 20-year-old also recently registered her own company, Cara & Co - for which her father, Charles Delevingne, is listed as co-director. The model recently told vogue.co.uk in an exclusive interview that she'd like to design her own collection of onesies or a range of "simple, well-cut tops and T-shirts".  

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SARAH KARMALI | FEBRUARY 25, 2013 | Article Link

Anja Rubik Turns Designer

ANJA RUBIK has designed a capsule footwear line for Giuseppe Zanotti. The collections of five styles are inspired by two of the model's music heroes - Debbie Harry and David Bowie - and will launch in stores and online in early March. Prices range between €550 (£480) and €1,400 (£1,200).

"It's a bit glam-punk," Rubik told us.  "I love that period in music. I'm a huge Bowie fan. People have said I look like him, which is honestly the biggest compliment. I think it's the high cheekbones. His style was so bold and brave and his music so honest. The whole collection is very personal to me, there is a real story behind it."

Zanotti and Rubik met when the Polish beauty was 16 through mutual friends. The model appeared in one of his campaigns, but they didn't meet again for another six years when they worked together for a second time. She has since starred in numerous adverts for the Italian brand.

"We're very good friends," she said. "We'll always have lunch together when I'm in Milan and I'll always tell him what I like and don't like about his shoes. One day I said to him: 'Maybe you should do something a bit more punk.' And he said, 'Why don't you design it for me?' It happened very organically."

Rubik travelled down to the designer's Italian factory to make sure she was fully involved in the whole process - although she wasn't prepared for the cultural differences between Italy and her hometown, New York.

"That Italian way of working - it took a while to get used to," she said. "I'd arrive and everyone would say, 'come on we're going out for lunch.' Then we'd return a few hours later. There was a lot of wine and food. It was how life should be - the perfect balance of work and play."

That's not to say that the road to design success was an easy one: "I was trying to show the factory-workers what I was going for and I found this piece of old suede on the floor and started cutting shapes in it to give them a better idea," she recalled. "Then Giuseppe walked in and asked: 'Has anyone seeing my favourite glasses cloth?' I was so embarrassed."

Rubik isn't ruling out a possible second collaboration, having enjoyed her first design project so much.

"I'm just going to take it slowly," she said. "If I did it again, I might create a collection at more accessible price points. I tried my best with this though and I'm happy with the results. I just hope that everyone else does too."

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ELLA ALEXANDER | FEBRUARY 25, 2013 | Article Link

Iman's Ageless Guide to Cool Style

Iman's best fashion tips

What's Iman's secret for looking youthful, polished and sophisticated? Read on for the style rules she lives by.














Every woman should own...

"A structured suit with pants that have a slightly '70s flair. I don't like my legs, so if I wear something that highlights them, I won't feel confident. This is flattering on everybody--the boot cut balances things out--and it has a sexy elegance."

Know when to go cheap
"Spring clothes are all so easy-breezy; I don't like to invest in them. Keep your outfit simple and let accessories, like a colorful, global-chic bag or shoes, anchor your look."


For great skin...
"BB cream with SPF 15 is my must-have. I wear it light during the day and put concealer under my eyes with it at night."


Some classics last a lifetime
"Splurge on cashmere sweaters--they will be in your closet forever."


This spring...
"Play up the earthy-girl thing by wearing a sundress and a safari jacket, then pile on lots of enamel and wood bracelets."

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redbookmag.com | Article Link

Kate Moss Named Hat-Wearer Of The Year

Picture credit: Lachlan Bailey

KATE MOSS has been named 2013 Hat Person of the Year. The model received the highest number of votes in an online poll conducted by The Headwear Association.

"Kate Moss' oft-imitated London street style is legendary, and she is well known for her love of hats," said the Headwear Association. "Hats off to you, Ms Moss. Your style is impeccable."

While Moss gained 40 per cent of the votes, singer Bruno Mars came a close second with 38 per cent. Anne Hathaway received just 14 per cent of votes. Previous winners include the Duchess of Cambridge (2012), Johnny Depp (2011), and Brad Pitt (2010).

The Headwear Association also announced earlier this year that it was inducting Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Tom Waits and Rachel Zoe into its 2013 Hall of Fame. Carey Grant and Josephine Baker are also to be inducted posthumously.

"Each year, the 104-year-old Headwear Association selects individuals renowned for wearing hats with signature style," explained THA president Stephanie Carter. "The six chosen to be inducted into the 2013 Headwear Hall of Fame are all known for frequently wearing hats and have all elevated the visibility of the headwear category." 

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SARAH KARMALI | FEBRUARY 19, 2013 | Article Link