Nick Verreos Hosts Macy's Fashion Show at 2011 LULAC Convention & Expo in Cincinnati Ohio: The Recap!!

Nick Verreos Hosts Macy's Fashion Show at 2011 LULAC Convention & Expo in Cincinnati Ohio: The Recap!!

Hola Cincinnati!!

Turquoise Man: Nick Verreos hosting Macy's Fashion Show, 2011 LULAC Convention & Expo "Voces Unidas: Concierto de la Gente" (photo courtesy of JackFleming.com)

Last week, in the midst of my FIDM 2011 "3 Days of Fashion" appearances in SF, LA, San Diego and Orange County (whew! That's a sentence-full!), I flew for an overnight trip to Cincinnati Ohio to host a FAB Macy's Fashion Show. The Fashion Show was to take place as part of 2011 LULAC/League of United Latin American Citizens Convention and Exposition's "Voces Unidas: Concierto de la Gente" (United Voices: Concert for the People) featuring "Los Lobos" (yes, of "La Bamba" fame) and "El Guero".

Upon arriving from my flight from LA to Cincinnati (via Salt Lake City), I was greeted by this sign, welcoming all LULAC Convention and Expo out-of-town guests and attendees to Cincinnati. You know I had to take a quick photo as arriving passengers were impatiently trying to get onto the escalator, making their way out of the airport.

After getting to the city, I checked into The Cincinnatian Hotel, which I heard was "The Best Hotel" in town. I immediately went to my room and as it's become a "Tradition" here on my blog and my Recaps, I took photos of my bed and the room itself (it was very nice indeed!).

The shower had TWO, not just one, but TWO, of those "Rain Shower heads" PLUS SIX coming-from-the-shower-wall jet streams. I made a mental note to get up EXTRA early the following morning to enjoy that before I had to catch my flight back to Los Angeles!

I had about one hour to change from my "travel outfit" and into "I am Hosting a Macy's Fashion Show" TopMan turquoise blue jacket, Dolce & Gabbana black jacquard tie and Zara black skinny trousers ensemble and then make my way to the Duke Energy Convention Center, site of 2011 LULAC Convention and Expo--as well as my fashion show event. It was about 90 degrees HOT and Humid so thank goodness I was NOT in head-to-toe wool!!!

The Center was "busy busy busy" as attendees made their way in and out of the Expo and from various different conferences and meeting rooms. After climbing three floors on the escalators (it's a BIG place you guys!), I made it to the Grand Ballroom, site of the Concert and Fashion Show.

Concert Mistress: Melissa "Crash" Barrera Mun2 TV personality, 2011 LULAC Convention & Expo "Voces Unidas: Concierto de la Gente" (photo courtesy of JackFleming.com)

After checking in with my Macy's clients, and the producers of the fashion show as well as all the models (they were SOOOO sweet!), we had a quick rehearsal, got all my note cards and was ready to BRING on the Macy's Fashion to LULAC! The Concert's "Mistress of Ceremonies" was the beautiful Melissa "Crash" Barrera, TV host and Mun2 personality. She introduced me and well, of course, I had to begin everything...

With one of my "Nick Runway Walks" (photo courtesy of JackFleming.com). Then, it was onto the Fashion. Being that it was a Macy's Fashion Show, there were LOTS of great looking clothes, naturally--and all available in two blocks distance at the nearby Macy's Fountain Place.

Photo Courtesy of JackFleming.com

The show began with a tableaux of fun and flirty printed maxi dresses--perfect for a July 4th Bar-b-Q, cocktails in Cabo, or even "dressed up" with heels for a party.

Model Jessica in coral 2-piece suit by Evan Picone Photo Courtesy of JackFleming.com

We also showed tailored business attire for the professional Latina, and even some Comfy-Chic separates. Trends included tie-dye, flower prints, bold and bright colors, metallics and statement-making scarves.

In between the fashions, I even gave some "Lessons" in what dresses work best for what body types and what details (shirring, diagonal pleating) also help visually "slim" a figure. And of course, I got in on the act and even modeled with one of the gorgeous girls!

Photo Courtesy of JackFleming.com

There were BOYS as well, kids! And they, naturally, were also wearing head-to-toe Macy's looks from Macy's-exclusive brands like INC and Alfani.

Photos Courtesy of JackFleming.com

After the fashion show ended, I went down into the Grand Ballroom area and took photos with guests as well as signed autographs and drew "Fashion Croquis" for them as well (photos above). I had A BLAST hosting the show and now it was onto watching--and listening--to "Los Lobos" and "El Guero" do their thang! And then return to my hotel and enjoy a good night's rest. In case you were wondering, yes, I got to use that AMAZEEEEEING shower back in my room the next morning! The sounds that I was making...well, I'm surprised my next door hotel neighbor didn't call the Hotel Security!!!

Ciao Cincinnati!!

Click Below for Exclusive Video of Los Lobos at "Voces Unidas: Concierto de la Gente", 2011 LULAC Convention & Expo:

Fashion School Fix: Nick Verreos Guest Appearance at FIDM Orange County!!!

Fashion School Fix: Nick Verreos Guest Appearance at FIDM Orange County!!!

Nick Goes to The OC--and brings Benny!

My Doggy Muse: Nick Verreos and Benny, and the FIDM OC 2011 "3 Days of Fashion" meet-and-greet crowd

Last week, I finished my "2011 3 Days of Fashion" Appearances and Fashion Shows at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising Orange County, in Irvine California. Being that this was the final one of my "3 Days of Fashion" 2011 events--I had to bring my doggy Benny!

I Heart Benny: Nick Verreos and Benny, FIDM Orange County "2011 3 Days of Fashion"

He is THE official "mascot" for NIKOLAKI!!! And Lord knows, If I had my wish, I would have gotten him in my Virgin Mobile Commercial!!! For. Sure. (He saw it and was mad--and jealous-- of me!)

I really do love the Orange County FIDM Campus (above) because they are always so "chill" yet fashionable and they never give me "shade" for bringing my son--ooops, I mean, my doggie, Benny! And the campus is so Loft-Fabulous to boot!

Posing: Nick Verreos, FIDM Orange County "2011 3 Days of Fashion"

I drove down to Irvine with David, and of course, we brought "Benny"! He loves it in the OC (of course he does!). For the "3 Days of Fashion", I was to speak on "How I Got To Where I Got" and how FIDM helped my goal of becoming a famous--and successful fashion designer. I also brought my "Muse":

Mermaid Diva: Model Amanda Fields in NIKOLAKI Spring 2011 black ziberline gown with black-and white brocade attached bustier, FIDM OC "2011 3 Days of Fashion"

Beyonce Fan: Model Amanda Fields and Nick Verreos, FIDM Orange County "2011 3 Days of Fashion"

Model Amanda Fields, and some of my NIKOLAKI Gowns and dresses, for the FIDM OC "3 Days of Fashion" attendees to enjoy. She stayed afterward to take photos and sign some of the guest's bags, t-shirts, etc. Love me some Amanda!

Clip Board Collage: My Clip Board at the FIDM OC "3 Days of Fashion"

After my Lecture and fashion show, I told the audience that of course, In would be around to take photos and sign anything they wanted me to sign. The FIDM OC staff was so AMAZING that they had a clipboard ready (to help me in signing) with a collage of images of me from "Google Images".

OC Barbie: Nick Verreos and a FIDM OC 3 Days of Fashion attendee--and her "Nick Verreos MyScene Project Runway Barbie"

I was SOOO EXCITED, when at one pint in my "Meet-and-Greet", a young attendee brought her "Nick Verreos Project Runway Barbie"--the MyScene Barbie that was created and sold exclusively at Toys 'R Us as a result of me winning one of my Season 2 Challenges. I told this young girl that she FOR SURE would make it on my BLOG as a result! And I always keep my promises...

Fashion School Fix: FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion" Nick Verreos Hosts Walk-Off and Mini NIKOLAKI Fashion Show!

Fashion School Fix: FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion" Nick Verreos Hosts Walk-Off and Mini NIKOLAKI Fashion Show!

It's a "3 Days of Fashion" Boy Runway Walk Off!!!!

Sunny Fashion Day: Nick Verreos poses with FIDM LA's "3 Days of Fashion" attendees

First was San Francisco and now...Continuing with my Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising 3 Days of Fashion 2011 "tour", the next stop was Los Angeles!!! It was a very hot and sunny day in LA this past week when I was asked to be the "Very Special Guest" at the FIDM LA Campus' 3 Days of Fashion Finale. I was scheduled to show some of my NIKOLAKI gowns and Red Carpet Dresses and talk about all that I learned as a former Fashion Design student at FIDM--as well as owning a Fashion business for ten years.

Brown Paper Carpet--FIDM Los Angeles "3 Days of Fashion"

This time, the organizers decided to have my event outdoors, at the FIDM-adjacent Hope Park. There was a FAB open-air stage and mini-runway set up as well as a "paper carpet" set up for my models so when they made their walk toward the stage, my gowns would not be soiled.

Open Air: Nick Verreos at the FIDM LA 2011 "3 Days of Fashion", FIDM LA Campus/Hope Park, Downtown LA

My "MC" was the wonderful Blaine Vebros, who introduced me as I began to say "Hi" to everyone as well as tell my "How I Got to Where I Got" story. I then introduced my models who sauntered out in my NIKOLAKI Spring 2011 Gowns that I brought especially for this event. FIDM was generous enough to provide me with the same models who happen to be on my NIKOLAKI website, Amanda Fields and Lauren Gish.

Pose Under The Sun: Nick Verreos introduces model Amanda Fields in NIKOLAKI turquoise silk gown, FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion"

I think the 300+ audience comprised of mostly high-school students and some of their parents, loved my "mini" fashion show and seeing the Couture-worthy gowns that I brought.

Coral Couture: Nick Verreos introducing Model Lauren Gish modeling NIKOLAKI, FIDM LA 2011 "3 Days of Fashion"

As a "special bonus" to the day--in addition to having my favorite models and showing my gowns--was that Lauren (one of the models) brought her Mommy, a United Airlines Flight Attendant (and you know how much I love flight attendants!). She had just flown for about ten hours straight in on a Seoul Korea to SF flight, caught a connector flight from SF and came to LA to visit her daughter--and to see me!!! (love her!)

Walk Off: Nick Verreos talks to the FIDM LA "Runway Walk Off" contestants, FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion"

Soon after my NIKOLAKI Fashion Show ended, I decided to get the audience "going" so I looked out in the audience and saw that they were only about 8-10 boys. I brought them all up onstage and began an impromptu "Runway Walk Off", and subsequently, let the audience decide--by applause--who the best Runway DIVO was.

WORK It Huney: FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion" Runway Walk-Off Contestant doing his runway pose

I would NOT be exaggerating when I say that: It was a BIG HIT!!!! The audience went MAD! Loved it! My "Male Runway Model Contestants" were so FIERCE it was BEYOND words. This was not a planned thing but the FIDM organizers quickly got the finalists and winners some great prizes.

Wave to Nick: The FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion" autograph-and-photo line, Hope Park, FIDM LA Campus, Downtown Los Angeles

Afterward, as always, I spent the next couple of hours, signing autographs and taking those "Oh God, I hope I look good" Facebook photos. Everyone was so sweet and generous and most of all, patient (it was a LONG line!!!) The Mom's and Dad's were especially excited (love them!).

Cutie Attendees: Nick Verreos poses with some of FIDM LA's "3 Days of Fashion" attendees

A Special "Thank You" to this young "3 Days of Fashion" attendee, Kathryn Delgadillo who brought me a gift, a ring from her line Kathryn Marie

Thanks to everyone for making this FIDM LA "3 Days of Fashion" so much fun! Especially my "Runway Walk-Off" boys....Much Love!

Below is a short video of Lauren Gish modeling one of my NIKOLAKI cocktail dresses at FIDM Los Angeles 2011 3Days of Fashion:

Nick Verreos Hosts a Macy's Fashion Show at LULAC Convention & Expo in Cincinnati, Ohio!

Nick Verreos Hosts a Macy's Fashion Show at LULAC Convention & Expo in Cincinnati, Ohio!

Cincinnati OHIO...Here I come!!!

This Thursday, June 30th, I am flying to Cincinnati Ohio, to be part of the "Voces Unidas: Concierto De La Gente" and host a very special Macy's Fashion Show as part of the 2011 LULAC/League of United Latin American Citizens National Convention & Exposition. In case you didn't know, LULAC is the LARGEST and OLDEST (82 years and going strong) Hispanic Organization in the United States.

I am very proud--and excited--that Macy's has invited be to be part of it---and add some of my Latino Nick Fashion Savor....to the Expo this year. As you know, I travel around the country hosting many fashion events for Macy's and this will be MY FIRST TIME in Cincinnati so I'm extra excited!

Below is the Schedule for the night and who else will be part of :
7:30 pm - 11:00 pm Voces Unidas: Concierto De La Gente held in the Grand Ballroom

• Melissa “Crash” Barrera, Mistress of Ceremony;
• Comedian Alex Reymundo, Master of Ceremony;
• Los Lobos;
• El Güero y su banda Centenario;

****Macy’s Fashion Show****

You can find out about ordering tickets HERE

I hope to see all my FASHIONISTA Latinos there!!!!

Prom Season 2011: Nick Verreos In-Store Appearance at FIDM Scholarship Store!

Prom Season 2011: Nick Verreos In-Store Appearance at FIDM Scholarship Store!

Prom Dress Central!

Good Morning Prom Girls: Nick Verreos poses in front of the FIDM Scholarship Store, Downtown LA 9th & Grand

Tuesdays are usually my Teaching Days and last Tuesday was no exception at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. However, I also had an extra job to do that morning prior to my classes: I was scheduled to make a "Special Appearance" at the school's FIDM Scholarship Store.

The FIDM Scholarship Store is THE shopping destination for Bargain Shopping Fashionistas--As the sign above says: "75% of our store is BELOW $10". MAJAH deals kids! Designers and Manufacturers donate clothing, jewelry, fabric. In fact, I recently donated many many yards of fabric from my NIKOLAKI design company--and all purchases go straight to FIDM Scholarships for the students.

FIDM Scholarship Store: Gowns, gowns and more gowns

And for Prom Season, it's the perfect place for all the lovely "Prom Princesses"--and their Mommies--to shop at. They have an entire section of "Prom" dresses as well as Wedding gowns, cocktail dresses...you name it, it's there (see above photo).

NBC-LA Boys: "Today In LA: Weekend" anchor Ted Chen and Nick Verreos

I did a LIVE TV "Prom Fashion" segment" the Sunday before on KNBC-LA "Today In LA: Weekend" news show with anchor Ted Chen showing under $40 designer prom styles from the FIDM Scholarship Store--all styled and hand-picked by moi--and announced that I would make a special appearance at the store.

Prom Poppa: Nick Verreos with models Martha (left) and Kaela(right), FIDM Scholarship Store

For my special Prom Appearance, I brought along two lovely models, Kaela and Martha from L.A. Models Agency--who also appeared on the TV segment--to show various Prom Dress Styles. They modeled FAB and SASSY styles from short party dresses...

Kaela and Martha, Prom Princesses, wearing styles from the FIDM Scholarship Store

As well as long "Hollywood Red Carpet" gowns and "Glamour" separates--for the Prom Girl who well, wants options other than the typical "Prom Dress".

Where's Nick: Nick Verreos pops his head with a group of visitors from Tennessee, FIDM Scholarship Store

During my visit, I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting a group of students--and their teacher--who came all the way from Tennessee to take a tour of the FIDM Campus--and just happened to come to the FIDM Scholarship Store at the right time...when I was there!!!! they were all soooo CUTE and a bonus: They were all "Project Runway" fans and fans of yours truly (I love that of course!).

Happy Shoppers: Mommie and daughter, FIDM Scholarship Store

Also, while I was there, a lovely Mommie and her statuesque and beautiful daughter came by (her mom had watched my NBC-TV Segment on Sunday and stopped by as a result!) Long story short: The daughter loved one of the gowns we showed on TV, tried it on and it fit PERFECTLY, and well, she BOUGHT IT!

It was a baby blue and white strapless satin Designer "Princess Gown" that retailed for about $250 and was at the FIDM Scholarship Store for under $30! Prom Princess Fashionista Happy Customer!
As I always say "Done and Done". The Prom Fashion Version.

**BONUS: Also...Don't forget to Check out my "Nick Verreos Prom Advice" on FIDM's FashionClub.com Daily Blog. I've written about many different subjects like:

*What to wear for the prom?
*What's In Style?
*Guys: What Should You Wear?
*Prom Couture on a Budget

And much more...

The latest: Tips On How To Take a Good Prom Photo! Click HERE!!!!

Nick Verreos Appearance at FIDM Scholarship Store TODAY--Tues May 17th: I'll be Showing Prom Looks for Under $40!

Nick Verreos Appearance at FIDM Scholarship Store TODAY--Tues May 17th: I'll be Showing Prom Looks for Under $40!

Prom King in Downtown LA!

Prom Court: Nick Verreos will be at FIDM Scholarship Store TODAY, Tuesday May 17th to Present Prom Looks

On Sunday, I filmed a FUN & FAB Prom Dress Segment for NBC-LA "Today In LA: Weekend Show" with Anchor Ted Chen--and four gorgeous models, where I showed four different Prom Looks for this 2011 Prom Season--ALL the clothes came from the AMAZING FIDM Scholarship Store, located on 9th and Grand, in the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising Los Angeles Campus. Now, of course, I'll be doing a little Blog about my "TV Prom Appearance" in an upcoming post!

FIDM Scholarship Store on 9th & Grand Avenue Downtown LA

But for now, I just wanted to announce that I'll be making a LIVE--and in Person--Appearance at the FIDM Scholarship Store THIS MORNING from 10-11:30AM presenting prom looks--with models--as well as helping girls--and their Mommies--pick out prom Dresses that will NOT "break the bank"! Most of the dresses and Prom Ensembles will be for under $40!!!! I know: Shut The Front Door! That's why we LOVE the FIDM Scholarship Store!!! I'll also be signing autographs and taking pics (naturally!).

So....Come out to the FIDM Scholarship Store TODAY and get your Prom Dressing ON!!!!!

Details:

What: Nick Verreos Presents CHIC Prom Looks On a Budget, all from the FIDM Scholarship Store

When: TODAY, Tuesday May 17th, 10-11:30 am

Where: FIDM Scholarship Store
919 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90015
(Corner of 9th and Grand)