Nick Verreos Attends LA Gay & Lesbian Center's LifeWorks 6th Annual Life Out Loud Event at Paramount Studios

Nick Verreos Attends LA Gay & Lesbian Center's LifeWorks 6th Annual Life Out Loud Event at Paramount Studios

Happy Pride...at the Paramount Lot:

Nick Verreos, LifeWorks Life Out Loud Event Paramount Backlot

Last night, as part of Los Angeles Pride 2011 Festivities, my dear friends Colin and John invited me to a great fundraiser event/party. It was the 6th Annual LA Gay & Lesbian Center's Life Out Loud benefiting LifeWorks, the center's youth development and mentoring program.

Where Are My Keys: Nick Verreos poses next to a new and shiny Lexus, LifeWorks Life Out Loud Event, Paramount Backlot

Platinum/Presenting Sponsors included Barbie Collector (more on that later--read on) as well as Lexus. This year's honorees were Mike C. Manning, Human Rights Activist, also known from being on "MTV's Real World D.C.", as well as Zach Wahls, famous for his address to the Iowan State Legislature in support of his two moms and Gay Marriage.

The festive cocktail party, held at the Paramount Studios Backlot "New York Street", featured music--very Hed Kandi-esque "Beach House", delicious hors d'oeuvres (sliders, desserts, crudites)...

Absolut cocktails (naturally!) as well as a FABULOUS Silent Auction. For the Silent Auction, there were long tables set up on the Backlot, displaying an extensive array of items such as a BookMarc by Marc Jacobs Package, a HUGE book on the famed Italian fashion house of Pucci (a Must-Have for any Fashionista-coffee-table!), a doggie bed with doggie toys, Diesel leather bag (my friend bid on this and won!), as well as many many others.

Cher Heaven: Cher poster/canopy, Barbie Collector Tent, LifeWorks Life Out Loud Event

Now, adjacent to the Silent Auction, cocktail bars and hors d'oeuvres table--there was something that made me almost trip on my YSL Johnny Boots: There was a Barbie Collector tent set up with Super-Sized canopies and posters featuring some of the most ICONIC Barbie Collector dolls--especially for the Gays. There was Cher in all her "If I Can Turn Back Time" ensemble--no wrinkles in sight--

As well as Barbra Streisand (above) in her Sailor outfit which she wore at her Coconut Grove and Hollywood Bowl concerts in the early 60's--Miss Streisand actually designed this famous ensemble--with the help of Hollywood Costume Designer Donfeld.

Another poster/canopy in the Barbie Collector tent that caught my eye, was the "Krystle and Alexis" Dynasty Barbies (above). Two of my absolute favorites. Gosh, I just love those 80's Barbies! Look at the hair (notice Krystle's darker "under" hair color), the diamonds, the gowns!! To that note, as part of the Silent Auction, Barbie Collector put together some AMAZING baskets for guests to bid on. I was going to bid on one but alas, time ran out and I missed it! (insert SAD FACE)

Project Runway Smiles: Nick Verreos and Jack Mackenroth

After spending WAAAY too much time at the "Barbie Collector" tent, my friends finally pried me away so I could actually enjoy some nibblings and cocktails and spend time with friends--new and old. I ran into fellow Project Runway alumn, hottie muscle boy Jack Mackenroth who was in town visiting from the East Coast...

Cutie Brit: British-born singer actor, composer (and new party/event buddy!) Tom Lowe

English actor and singer (you may recognize him from his stint on the sixth season of "American Idol") and composer Tom Lowe was also at the Life Out Loud Fundraiser. He's an acquaintance of the boys I came with and was such a HOOT to hang out with. We were bonding to no end on the Hed Kandi-like house music tunes being played (we were singing them really loud much to our bystanders dismay) as well as he was giving me some traveling tips on my upcoming trip to Europe--and London especially...

Blazers Required: My good friend--and one half of my "Dates"--Colin Murphy

Finally, I had to bid Adieu to such a great event--and get back home and be depressed at the fact that I didn't get to bid--or win--any Barbie's from that amazing Silent Auction so I leave you with this Bob Mackie Circus Barbie Doll that was encased in glass (of course it was!) in the Barbie Collector Tent:

Just FAB-u-LOUS!!!!

MTV Gifting Suites: Nick Verreos goes to "Melanie Segal's Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge" MTV Awards Gifting Suite!

MTV Gifting Suites: Nick Verreos goes to "Melanie Segal's Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge" MTV Awards Gifting Suite!

MTV Gifting Suites 90210...

Nick Verreos at the Melanie Segal's Platinum Publicity Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge for the MTV Movie Awards 2011, Luxe Hotel Penthouse

Yesterday, I was invited to attend several of those fabulous Gifting Suites in lieu of the MTV Awards--Because of my hectic schedule, I could really only get to one, Melanie Segal's Platinum Publicity Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge at the Luxe Hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills, on Rodeo Drive.

As you may know, these "Lounges" are PR and Marketing to events held in LA during Awards Season to, highlight brands and show off anything from beauty products, clothing, liquor, make-up treatments, shoes, jewelry, tooth whitening and spa treatments, super-flossy resort vacations ,the latest-and-greatest in technical gadgets, to well, even cup cakes!

Actor Frankie Muniz, with his NeilMed Sinus Rinse bag of "goodies", Melanie Segal's Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge, Luxe Hotel Penthouse

The point is to get Celebs to come, check out the products, pose and take a photo with the product so the vendor gets something for their Publicity/PR page, and hopefully, the invitee gets a "gift" of a product as a "Thank You". The bigger the Celeb, the bigger their "gift", as you can imagine.

The scene at this Platinum Publicity "Lounge" at the Luxe Hotel Penthouse (above photo) was, appropriately enough, lounge-y. This was the first day and guests/Celebs were just trickling in as I arrived. Sometimes it's a bit odd to come to these events--for several reasons, including the fact that you might have to deal with that dreaded "And You Are???"--but it's always nice when immediately, the "Door Girls" recognize you and are UBER sweet...as they were here to me.

There was a "red carpet" section for photo-ops, a DJ playing fun "Lounge-Club-Pop" tunes and immediately you were "drawn" into the various vendor tables. Usually you are escorted by one of the Gifting Suites pr people who leads you from table to table to check out all the fun...

Nick Verreos posing with UniqueVintage.com Retail Store Manager Kelly Edwards, Melanie Segal's Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge, Luxe Hotel Penthouse

Platinum Suites had everything for everyone: Manicures from Bellacures (I got one!), Ed Hardy tees and hats, Artá Tequila, Wine Tasting, DDF Advanced Eye Firming Concentrate Cremes, Paciugo Gelato (I had a cup!)...

Great tanks and vintage-inspired clothing from UniqueVintage.com, great printed shirts from Nuco Clothing, Dulcerama Lingerie (Thongs anyone?) to NeilMed Sinus Rinse products. This last one I was excited to find out more info. since I had just returned from San Antonio Texas and had a bad case of that city's infamous Cedar Pollen Allergies.

As soon as I said "hello" to the NeilMed Sinus Rinse booth people (above photo), they were above-and-beyond excited to see me! I guess they are BIG Project Runway fans and well, before I knew it, I spent half an hour giving them DISH on the show and all the behind-the-scenes stuff! My "handler" was so over me that she done left me!

During my stay, I spotted the beautiful actress/singer Samantha Mumba (I LOVED that song of hers, "Baby Come On Over" back in the day!) but in the end, I had to hightail it back to my studio and run my business and make some dresses...

But of course, I couldn't leave without stopping by two particular "booths": First, the Friandise Pastries, where I picked up some DELICIOUS macaroons, cupcakes and cookies. And finally...

Nut Lover: Nick Verreos loves MyMixedNuts to-go bags, Melanie Segal's Red Cross Prepare LA Trend Lounge, Luxe Hotel Penthouse

I had to stop by MyMixedNuts.com--I love their to-go bags of nuts and they were so kind to give me one "for the road", as well as for my many travels on a plane--they're perfect for that--and perfect for when I don't get that Upgrade and get seated waaaay back in Coach!

Thanks Melanie Segal and Platinum Publicity for another fun Trend Lounge. event.

Nick Verreos: My Virgin Mobile Commercial!!!

Nick Verreos: My Virgin Mobile Commercial!!!

Give Me the Pomeranian!!!!

SPARAH Threesome: Nick Verreos and "Sparah" (Spencer & Sarah), Virgin Mobiles newest Celeb Couple

Well, kids, I am so happy to announce that last month, I filmed a FUN and very FABULOUS Virgin Mobile Commercial. And it's OUT!!! Virgin Mobile is introducing the newest of CELEBRITY COUPLES: SPARAH!!!

Like Brangelina and so many others, Virgin Mobile decided to get on the "Celeb Couple" bandwagon and they plucked two unsuspecting people--a gorgeous girl and very cute guy--Sarah and Spencer--to be the Virgin Mobile Celeb Couple.

In the commercial, I play a Stylist/Designer who is hired to get them FASHION-FABULOUS. I even had an Assistant (Quentin Miles) in the commercial (seen above). Funny Anecdote: Quentin also happened to be the Neiman Marcus Sales Associate who helped me find the right BOW TIE for my TV Guide Oscars LIVE TV gig (I know! Shut The Front Door!!! What a small world!).

Grunters: Nick Verreos & The Pug, Virgin Mobile Ad

Spencer's Daschund (with matching scarf!)

Anyhow, in the commercial, I tell Sarah (half of "Sparah") that, as any Hollywood A-List Celeb Magazine Cover Girl knows, she needs a DOG to make her look more FAB. Now, you know I love me some fashion, and I also love me some dogs! (Hi Miss Bennyz!!!), so this was so much fun to be part of. I loved every minute!

In addition to my commercial, you can follow "Sparah" in their journey to becoming the new A-List Celeb couple. Click HERE for all the details. And in the weeks to come you will see me making a few more guest appearances!!

But for now, the commercial is out! Enjoy!!!

Click Below for the Commercial:

Nick Verreos Will be in the Detroit Area THIS SATURDAY to Host Macy's "Putting it All Together" Event!!

Nick Verreos Will be in the Detroit Area THIS SATURDAY to Host Macy's "Putting it All Together" Event!!

Watch Out Michiganders...I'm COMING!!!!



Come together and Find Your Magic by Putting it All Together! YOU could be chosen from the audience to participate in the ultimate fashion face-off and win a $100 Macy's Gift Card! Yes, kids, I am flying to Michigan THIS WEEKEND to host the Macy's Putting It All Together Fashion Event".


Join ME THIS Saturday at Twelve Oaks Shopping Center in Novi Michigan in the Macy's First Floor Impulse Department at 2pm. I'll pick lucky contestants from the audience to style models for different scenarios-- from what would you wear to your dream job interview to how would you dress on a night out with the girls. Plus, during the event I will share my "Nick Fashion Do's" and "Dont's" along with my top style tips for Spring 2011.

Here are the DETAILS:

What: Nick Verreos Hosts Macy's Putting It All Together" Event

Where: Macy's Twelve Oaks Shopping Center Novi, Michigan
27550 Novi Road Novi MI 48377
1st Floor, Impulse Department

When: Saturday April 9th, 2pm

RSVP: Nope! Just show up!!!

And PS: I'll be taking Pics, signing autographs AND you might make my NICKVERREOS.COM BLOG right HERE!!!

Nick Verreos Goes to the FIDM Fashion Club Party--and Debut 2011 Part One!

Nick Verreos Goes to the FIDM Fashion Club Party--and Debut 2011 Part One!

Fashion Club Carnival: Samba DJ'ing, Colored Feathers, Dipped Chocolate-covered Marshmallows, and much more...

Let's Do It Girls! Nick Verreos leads his models, Amara and Brianna--in NIKOLAKI gowns--down the FIDM Debut 2011 Runway (photo courtesy of Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)

Last weekend's "FIDM Fashion Marathon" of Open House, Debut Shows and Fashion Club Parties was a big success! So, without further ado---it's time for the Fashion Club Party!!!

FashionClub.com--sponsored by the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM--is an online site for aspiring fashion designers, future fashion industry trendsetters in high schools all across the country--and across the world. It gives prom advice, shows you the hottest trends in teen fashion and jewelry and even has contests to win scholarships to go to FIDM.

In addition, It also helps students--and their instructors--start their own "FIDM Fashion Club" at their high school! Every year, during the FIDM Debut Show, Fashion Club holds their big fabulous bash--The Fashion Club Party--and for 2011, the theme was "Carnival in Rio" since this was actually the theme the Costume Design Grads had for their 2011 Debut Collection.

May I Serve You Some Crudités? Nick Verreos, inside the FIDM Fashion Club Party 2011

A HUGE tent is constructed right outside the Santa Monica Barker Hangar just for the party and hundreds of Fashion Club members from all over the US--and abroad--get special VIP tickets to attend. And of course, I get to go too!!!

Inside, plush couches and tables were draped in vibrant "Carnival" colors of aquamarine, tangerine, emeralds and cherry reds. Lots of feathers, beads and sequins were strategically strewn for further "party" effect. Plus, there was a DJ (wearing a Brazilian Carnival Headdress!) playing "Samba House" as well as pop, rock, and anything in between. Picture "Mardis Gras" but in Brazil...at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar!

Guests including high school students, accepted-to-FIDM students, their teachers, and a mom or two thrown in for good measure--got all dressed up in their best "after-five" and were greeted with "Fashion Club Goody Bags" and enjoyed Crudités (above), tropical punch...

As well as "got their sweet-tooth on": Lining up to the always popular Chocolate Fountain (above). There were bananas, strawberries as well as marshmallows ready for the dippin'!

Carmen Miranda Who? Nick Verreos poses with Fashion Club Party 2011 guests--with feathered boas

Also, as it has been the tradition every year at the Fashion Club Party, there was a "Take-a- Photo-With-Nick" section--or Fashion Club Celebrity Corner-- where I posed with any guest who wanted to take a photo. A professional photographer was on hand snapping away and then the photos would be printed out for them to take soon afterward.

Where's Nick? Nick Verreos (head sticking out) and a bunch of his new friends, FIDM Fashion Club Party 2011

I had a BLAST! (and I think all my new photo-posing friends did too!). But soon, it was time for everyone to move into the Barker Hangar and get ready for the 2011 FIDM Debut Show:

Silver-Suited MC: Nick Verreos onstage at the Debut 2011, Santa Monica Barker Hangar (photo courtesy of Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)

There is so much interest in the FIDM Debut Show that they have several shows over a period of three days and this one show was for all the Fashion Club Party guests--as well as thousands of other high school students, educators and parents. I was happy to introduce the show and give my little "pep talk" of what I've been up to lately and how much FIDM influenced me when I was dreaming of becoming a successful fashion designer.

No Pushing Kids: The scene in the Barker Hangar Foyer of Debut 2011 guests taking photos of me (notice the "intense" security guard)

During my introduction, I told everyone that I would be waiting for them in the Barker Hangar Foyer--or Lobby--and happy to take photos and sign anything they had! And boy, they did!!! It was a MAD crazy rush to get photos taken with me that at one point, the security guys were freaking out! For a HOT ten minutes there, I kinda did feel like one of the Jonas Brothers--well the older, bearded, silver-suited, funky-haired one! In the end, it all worked out and most everyone got their photos and autographs: I LOVED every second I spent with each and every one of my photo "dates"!

Take a Bow: Nick Verreos, FIDM Debut 2011 (photo courtesy of Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)

I'll put up photos--and my Recap--of the actual Debut 2011 Fashion Show in another post soon--but for now...

Here's an Exclusive Video of my "FIDM Debut 2011" MC'ing and Introduction:

Nick Verreos Hosts FIDM Open House Los Angeles!!

Nick Verreos Hosts FIDM Open House Los Angeles!!

Hello High School Fashionistas...Moms, Dads, and Educators!!!

Welcome: Nick Verreos at FIDM Open House 2011 Los Angeles

Last Thursday began a Three-day Fashion Marathon at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM, the College in which I am an Instructor and also the Spokesperson, and of course, as many of you know, the college I also graduated from YEARS ago!

This "FIDM Fashion Marathon" concludes with the very special "Debut " which is a HUGE fashion show at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar where the collections of the Advanced Fashion Design as well as Costume Design Graduates are shown.

But before that, there are other very fun events, one of which was the fabulous "FIDM Open House"--where high school students, just-accepted students, their parents, and educators come visit the FIDM campus and get to know the school, its facilities and the campus.

Fashion Director's Seats: Nick Verreos Hosts FIDM Open House 2011 Los Angeles--Hope Park, Downtown LA

FIDM has Open Houses in all of it Campuses, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Orange County. I was asked to host the Los Angeles Open House Panel Discussion, which I have done before and is always a lot of fun--as well as very informative to the audience.

Tented View: Nick Verreos and audience--FIDM LA Open House 2011

The panel included three Graduates and one current students, all from different majors: Kara Gaydosz (Merchandise Marketing graduate), Sarah Thompson (Visual Communications, Entertainment Set Design & Decoration graduate), Jonathan Gitlin (Digital Media graduate) and Erica Williams (Fashion Design current student).

Looking On: FIDM LA Open House 2011 Audience

Because it was the LA Open House, it was HUGE!!! The school set up an expansive tent--or tents--adjacent to the Downtown LA campus on Hope Park, where HUNDREDS of students, parents, educators got their lunch, and then sat down to hear or Panel Discussion. This was probably the BIGGEST Open House I had hosted so I was excited!!

Naomi Who: Nick Verreos (at end of walkway)--FIDM LA Open House 2011

So excited that of course, I had to do my "Nick Runway Walk" down the center aisle of the tented seated audience! Yes, that's me--above--trying to "give" RUNWAY--to kids and parents, from all over California and the US including Arizona, Florida, NY, Massachusetts, and even Mexico City!

Bow Tie Cheese: Nick Verreos and guest, FIDM LA Open House 2011

Afterward, I spent time taking photos and signing autographs for all the "FIDM Open House Los Angeles" attendants who wanted to. I had a great time hosting the event as well as getting to meet everyone (or most everyone) there!

Heyyyyy: Nick Verreos, posing with FIDM L:A Open House 2011 guests

But soon, I had to get back in my car, do a quick outfit change and head to the Santa Monica Barker Hangar to host the FIDM Fashion Club Party and make a special appearance at FIDM Debut 2011.

Stay tuned for those photos--That posting will be FAB for sure!

Until next time...