Zang Toi Spring 2012 Collection

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Zang Toi always gives you the essence of regality with his designs, but this season, he takes it to the beginning of it all with his "dream of North Africa."  The collection was glamorous, well executed, and bountifully drmamatic; as to be expected by the talented designer.  In this collection, Zang Toi brings you into his dream of North Africa, but also leaves you to your own thoughts and personifications of the ancient and present elements of that region.

The colors, down to the names (ebony, ivory, sapphire), have strong implications to North Africa, and of the African continent in general.  The gold leaf on the garments, to the rich metallic gold handbag puts you in mind of the gold coast and the riches of Northern African nations.  The linen is reminiscent of ancient rucksacks and sackcloth used in the biblical times of Job and King David.  The blue was as eternal as the seas on the continent, and of the extravagant garments worn by African royalty. 

The first look, from the 24K gold leaf, to the dramatic linen cape, to model Gorgie Badiel channeling her roots to exude the power of the African woman - brought the audience into the powerful, regal, ancient time of Africa's dynasty and influence.  As models regally entered the runway, which felt like the King's chambers, each look had elements of luxury, boldness and expert craftsmanship.  Zang Toi garments will always be tailored to perfection, and even with the woman's jackets he was able to utilize crisp tailored lines with enough accents to create feminine silhouettes.

The statement piece, "Make Love not War," was accepted well with the audience, and is a perfect way to wear your support of peace, especially in the current social climate we live in.  The top, paired with the gold pants, was a very sexy youthful addition to the collection. 

To end the show, Kirstie Alley walks in a dramatic, sapphire couture silk gazar gown, topped with a jewel encrusted imperial coat.  Alley, beautiful and still in great shape after her trime on Dancing With the Stars, gracefully walked the runway, continuing the roar of applause that had been occuring throughout the entire presentation of Zang Toi's collection. 

Norman Ambrose Spring Summer 2012 Collection

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Norman Ambrose created an ultra-chic, glamorous, editorial-ready collection for Spring/Summer 2012, bringing a sense of maturity and self-awareness to women of all ages. Rich coral, guava, and bold turquoise colors blended with ivory and gold pulled in a cohesive collection, inspired by the "sun glistening on the Mediterranean like a sea of diamonds.  The use of metallics and beading on the fabrics also conveyed the inspiration; the contrast of black, slate and silver representing the lifecycle of the diamond from coal to precious gem.  The gold glass bolero has such a movement quality that it caught every ounce of light personifying rays of sun. The finale look was a well-executed, red carpet ready ivory silk crepe evening gown with dramatic guava bow; ending the collection on a soft, feminine note. 

 

 Click to watch footage of the finale walk from the show!

Yigal Azrouel Spring Summer 2012 Men's Collection

 

 

There's no mistaking that color blocking is here to stay; but to also block fabrics, textures, and shapes adds even another layer of dimension for Yigal Azrouel's menswear collection. Focusing on a "new prospective of utility" Yigal's Spring Summer 2012 collection pushed the idea of the modern man without losing an ounce of masculinity.  Architectural lines, structured outerwear, and a mix of rugged fabrics like twill and leather are simple enough for summer, but fully transitional to wear in the Autumnal months.

View Finale Walk of Yigal Azrouel Men's Spring/Summer 2012 Collection

Rachel Zoe Spring/Summer 2012 Collection (VIDEO)

There are instances when a stylist's attempt to launch a line goes unsuccessful, but in this instance, Rachel Zoe has proven her talent in both the styling and designing realm.  Her Spring Summer 2012 collection was a combination of the strong and flirty elements of the modern woman.  If the collection had a muse, it was definitely that of Rachel Zoe; each piece could be seen on Zoe any day - which is to be expected because the best collections are based on the personal experience and prospective of the designer.

The collection also took a seamless season approach, using warmer colors like olive and burnt sienna, and fabrics like leather and textured canvas that could be worn Spring-Fall with ease. 

Check out full video footage of the collection!

Monique Lhuillier Spring Summer 2012 Collection

Spring 2012 has shown a new side of Monique Lhuillier; a more sexy, serious side that what may have been expected.  While this is a different take on what we see from Monique, the collection still had all the essentials of her style; attention to the woman's body, chic silhouettes, and - while there weren't many in the collection - beautiful gowns.

photos: Getty Images

This first looks were very serious and structured, with blocks of bold colors and the addition of leather and lace which transitioned throughout the collection.  Sleek and sporty cocktail dresses were fitted to the body, demonstrating the woman's interest in fitness and healthy lifestyles.  The trench coats in the collection, with bold colors, prints and lace details, could even be styled as dresses.

Known for her gowns, her evening wear was sexy and body fitting, accentuating the woman's curves and lines, with open backs, lace cutouts, and ending in mermaid style which added even more definition to the body.

Video of Monique Lhuillier Fashion Show Finale:

General Idea Spring 2012 Collection

General Idea has been known on Avenue Swank to blow the minds of any outerwear enthusiast, taking a new artistic approach to menswear.  This season, the collection was a reminder of the eighties-early nineties era of bright color blocking and parkas.  

Photos: Getty Images

Though the outerwear steals the show, the entire styling of each look was unique and masculine, including naval trends and relaxed knits.  The combination of orange and blue shades, mixed with stripes on sleeves and layered below jackets was a creative way to incorporate the General Idea aesthetic to a more classic, collegiate style.

Check out our point-of-view showing the finale looks.

Organic by John Patrick Spring 2012

photos: Getty Images

Laid-back looks with breathable, summer fabrics gave life to John Patrick's namesake.  Organic by John Patrick is all about natural fabrics and earthy looks, and this collection gives Spring/Summer just what it needs.  Khaki and white were the main colors, with splashes of grey and warm earthy tones to add a softer touch.  The collection is fun and casual, which is perfect for warm weather, and paired with the right shoe, each look can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Rowenta Hosts Fashion Week PopUp Shop

Rowenta, the official garment sponsor of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week will be holding a series of events during the epic fashion week for guests and fashion enthusiasts. 

On Friday, September 9, Rowenta will have a mix and mingle with Rowenta Style Ambassador Althea Harper, as well as a tote and t-shirt design session using the exclusive Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Pro Master iron

All week, attendees will be able to work the Rowenta Runway in the Rowenta photo booth at Lincoln Center. Attendees can also enter to win an exclusive Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Pro Master iron. Four winners will be chosen daily.

In addition, for those not physically attending Mercedes Benz Fashion week, Rowenta is giving away tickets to a Fashion Week show!  Join Rowenta’s Facebook and Twitter communities for the opportunity to win tickets to a Fashion Week show or win an exclusive Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Pro Master iron. Follow Rowenta on Twitter or Facebook for your chance to win!

I'm in the market for a new iron, so I will certainly be entering the contest!!  Be sure to click on the Twitter or Facebook links for further instruction on how to enter!