Today Show Exclusive! Nick Verreos Wedding Gown Design for Kate Middleton!! Video + Photos and Sketch!!!

Today Show Exclusive! Nick Verreos Wedding Gown Design for Kate Middleton!! Video + Photos and Sketch!!!

Fit for a Royal Bride...

Blushing Princess Bride: Model Kasie in my "Kate Middleton Wedding Gown" design, Today Show

This morning, on NBC's "Today Show", in the run-up to the upcoming Prince William and Kate Middleton Royal Wedding, the show had a fun & fabulous segment featuring original one-of-a-kind wedding gown designs by Project Runway designers.

As I noted in the previous posting, I was asked a week ago--along with four other Project Runway alumni, to create our "vision" for Kate Middleton's Wedding Gown. The segment--hosted by Anchor Natalie Morales and Today Show Fashion Editor Bobbie Thomas--showed each of our designs as well as our corresponding fashion illustrations.

Wedding Sketch: Nick Verreos "Kate Middleton Wedding Gown" original fashion illustration

Here, I have added some screen-cap photos from this morning's segment, of the wedding gown I designed and created (with the AMAZING help of my NIKOLAKI partner-in-design-crime David Paul--and my INVALUABLE seamstress. I am also including the entire video of the segment at the end of this post, in case you missed it...

Le Pockets: Model Kasie in my "Kate Middleton Wedding Gown" design, Today Show

The gown is an ivory silk ziberline column gown with a "Mermaid" silhouette featuring a pleated high-neck, strong shoulders, cap sleeves, side-front pockets (a girl's gotta have her pockets!) and a full pleated back train. It features a waist detail with hand-sewn Swarovski crystal beading for a "dash" of sparkle.

Couture Torso: Close-Up of beaded waist trim and pleated Bateau neckline of my "Kate Middleton Wedding Gown" design, Today Show

Hint Of Back: View of back of my "Kate Middleton Wedding Gown" design, Today Show

I was inspired by Architecture and wanted to design a gown that was structured yet elegant. I also considered Kate Middleton's penchant for showing her great figure (it was fitted, and had an open back) but still remained "Future Queen of England" appropriate (covering the shoulders and part of the arms).

To finish off the entire look, I added a full tulle veil (above photo) to go with the gown. Of course, I also needed a proper crown/tiara. I found the perfect one with crystals-and-pearls at Berger Beads in Downtown Los Angeles (They were so helpful!). It was wonderful seeing the gown on my model, Kasie (Love you Kasie!), on the Today Show and so happy how it all turned out!

And by the way: Visit myLifetime.com for information on "The Royal Private Sale" to win my original "Nick Verreos for Kate Middleton Wedding Gown"--as well as the other 4 Project Runway designers' one-of-a-kind dresses. Proceeds will go to charity.

And don't forget, WATCH TONIGHT'S Premiere of the Lifetime TV Movie "William & Kate: Let Love Rule" 9pm e/p.

Watch Today Show Project Runway Kate Middleton Wedding Gown Segment Below:

WHO WORE WHAT....Golden Globe Awards 2016: Trend Alert! Ballgowns and White Gowns

WHO WORE WHAT....Golden Globe Awards 2016: Trend Alert! Ballgowns and White Gowns

Ball vs. Ivory: Ball Gowns and Ivory Dresses--Trend Alerts seen on the 2016 Golden Globe Awards Red Carpet

A couple of other Trends (besides Sequined Gowns) emerged from last night's 2016 Golden Globes Red Carpet: Ball Gowns and White Dresses.It's time to take a look at some examples...

Gina Rodriguez in Zac Posen: Gina Rodriguez is my first starlet featuring the Ball Gown Trend at last night's 2016 Golden Globe Awards. Gina wore this navy blue silk gown from designer Zac Posen. The gown featured an off-the-shoulder neckline, folded and fitted bodice and box pleated full skirt. And yes, it also had side pockets. I thought she looked quite nice and I loved her modern hairstyle and clean makeup and simple jewelry. 

Jaimie Alexander in Genny: One of my favorite looks of the night was this emerald green and black devore velvet and organza "printed" gown with a plunging neckline from the Italian fashion brand Genny. And again, we see those inseam side pockets. Chic and effortlessly modern.

Amy Schumer in Prabal Gurung: Comedienne and actress Amy Schumer wore this black and white ball gown from U.S. designer Prabal Gurung. The style had an off-the-shoulder neckline and very full skirt with dramatic train. Oh and yes, side pockets! The lining was white and boy, I can only imagine how dirty it must have been at the end of the night. But at least, Amy looked elegant. I love that very popular sleeked-sides updo on her and that "nude" makeup; she looked very on-trend.

Jenna Dewan Tatum in Zuhair Murad Haute Couture: Another one of my favorite looks from the 2016 Golden Globes was this Zuhair Murad Haute Couture gown worn by Mrs. Channing Tatum. The $100,000+ costing Couture ball gown was made with blue silk organza with thousands of silver crystal sequins hand sewn on the gown. And as with any ball gown of the moment, there were pockets. Of course.

Rachel McAdams in Lanvin: Ball Gown Lite--that's what I am calling this soft A-line flared gown shape. It's like a traditional ball gown but without the inner petticoat/crinoline. This ball gown, by Lanvin, was strapless and featured an asymmetrical yoke and bold flower print. I loved this gown for many reasons especially that it's unusual to see a print on the red carpet and this one was beautiful and romantic. 

Saoirse Ronan in Yves Saint Laurent Couture: Actress Saoirse Ronan opted for the Grecian Goddess gown look in this ivory full skirted dress from the custom arm of the French Saint Laurent fashion brand. The brand doesn't really sell gowns and only makes them custom for top actresses for events such as these under the "label" of Yves Saint Laurent Couture. The gown is simple yet dramatic and just right for Saoirse's delicate features.

Laverne Cox in Elizabeth Kennedy: Laverne Cox wore this white ball gown from NYC-based designer Elizabeth Kennedy. Laverne was right on trend for wearing a white colored gown at last night's 2016 Golden Globes. The dress had a batteau high neck, fitted waist and column-to-back full dramatic shape. It was very impacting, both for the stark white color and the structural shape.

Lily James in Marchesa: "Downton Abbey" actress Lily James was also on the White Gown Trend with this creation from Marchesa. The Grecian Goddess-style gown had several layers with the top one being white but subtle gold and pink inner layers added depth. Very beautiful and very ethereal. 

Taraji P Hensen in Stella McCartney: Miss Taraji also wore a white gown, this one being by Stella McCartney. The simple strapless sheath sculpted her figure and had added interest with a back "Watteau"-style cape/fall. I have to say, that it was a nice gown but really, Taraji's lifted eyebrows are THE REAL STARS here.

Eva Longoria in Georges Hobeika: Newly-engaged Eva Longoria wore this white cap-sleeved gown from Lebanese Couturier Georges Hobeika. The gown had delicate sequined flower appliques as well as bow-like details on the neckline and waist, as well as a center front slit for easier movement. The dress fit her like a glove.

Alicia Vikander in Custom Louis Vuitton: Actress Alicia Vikander wore this white sequined gown from Louis Vuitton. While Louis Vuitton does not make gowns for sale, they make them custom if you are...Alicia Vikander. The dress was romantic, feminine and very pretty. It wasn't Fashion with a Capital "F" but nice and pretty.

Jane Fonda in Yves Saint Laurent Couture: Finally, I have to finish my White Gown Trend ladies with THE DIVA, Miss Jane Fonda. Now, I realize this look may not be for everyone, but to heck with that! Many people--some, my own good friends, tell me "why doesn't anyone take a chance? The red carpet is sooooo boring now!". Well, Exhibit A kids: Jane Fonda is fearless, a style icon and I ADORE it! This ivory gown is from Yves Saint Laurent Couture and features a triple tiered ruffle capelet balanced off by a slim column gown and long thin sleeves. I think she is every ounce a STYLE Empress in this. It reminds me of the Besty Bloomingdale/Nan Kempner days of the FashionDiva/ muses. I wish more women dressed like this to go out on the town. Seriously. 

TJ Maxx Grand Opening On Michigan Ave.

TJ Maxx Grand Opening On Michigan Ave.

Maxxinista - One who finds unique and original designer items at discount prices.  My name is Perry Fish and I am an admitted Maxxinista.  I thrifted before it was cool.  Before Pinterest.  Before Maklemore launched his career with a chart topping song about it.  

From a very young age, I was exposed to this modern form of treasure hunting.  My mother made a habit of dragging me and my sister into every Goodwill and Salvation Army in the state of Michigan.  Family trips were riddled with garage sale pit stops and bargain binges. 

 Images courtesy of tjmaxx.

As a fashion blogger, I love shopping the latest styles and live for finding a good deal.  Of course I was thrilled to hear the news of TJ Maxx coming to 600 North Michigan Avenue.  Style expert, Jamie Krell gave me the full tour of the new store space.  My favorite feature is the new Runway Collection section, with up to 60% off designer pieces.  

Halfstack Magazine:  What trend are you most looking forward to this season?

Jamie Krell: I love all of the menswear inspired pieces this season.  Traditional blazers (from a bit shrunken to oversized), loose-fitting pants and even matching pantsuits.  It looks instantly chic and fashion forward, but is also extra comfortable, which is always a win-win for me!  I also really like all of the menswear inspired shoes; Chelsea boots and loafers which pair well with everything from jeans to dresses - all trends I spotted while pursuing the racks of the new Michigan Ave store! 

HM:  What piece/item from TJ Maxx are you currently lusting over?

JK:  A designer, leather bucket bag (which is also the "it" style of the season) I found at the Michigan Ave grand opening!  I told myself I would abide by the "3 day rule" and if I was still thinking about it after I left the store, I should get it.  It's been over three days and I've thought about it every second.  Is that wrong?  I guess I need it!  

The new location on Michigan Ave officially opened it's doors on Thursday, September 4th.  Keep an eye out for two more locations popping up soon, Romeoville and Northbrook!  

Wardrobe Staple: Denim Jackets

Wardrobe Staple: Denim Jackets

WEAR YOUR FAVOURITE JEAN JACKET ALL YEAR LONG

A denim jacket has been an essential part of my wardrobe for as long as I can remember. I can’t imagine trying to dress for spring and fall without it. A denim jacket is a basic wardrobe staple which makes every outfit look totally differently. That's a very versatile piece, as you can wear it over a laid-back sweatshirt, plain white cotton tee, denim pants, wear with simple long necklace, or you can go for a girlish and chic look, wearing cocktail dress and sparkling, trendy accessories.

Thanks to its versatility and practicality, you can wear it for various events, day or night. Denim jackets are hailed as an essential for your casual wardrobe, and if you haven’t quite figured out the various ways of styling this outerwear staple, here are a few awesomely simple ideas:

Personally, I like a denim jacket that is slightly cropped and has some shaping through the waist area. The piece can easily be layered up to combat the cold or left open and loose to sit as a comfortable top layer in a spring ensemble.

Just like jeans, denim jackets come in all shades of blue. (And other colours, although blue is definitely the most common.) A jacket in a medium wash denim is the most versatile and can be dressed up or down. If you're looking for "smarter" autumn and winter jacket, try a dark wash. Due to the darker colour, they usually look more polished.

You can wear double denim, but it definitely comes with a warning note. Make sure the tones of blue are different, so you are not matchy-matchy. It also helps if your top is longer in-between so it breaks up the denim.

Pair it with a white lace dress and boots to put a classic boho touch on a feminine look or To make your denim jacket more fancy, you can wear it with sequins and heels. It’s a fun mix for going out.

Make a maxi dress work for spring or fall by wearing it with a cropped denim jacket or Paired with a turtleneck and a maxi skirt, your jean jacket can easily give your outfit a ’70s vibe. 

Pair your denim jacket with stripes, plaid shirts, and colourful pants – any of them is a classic spring look.

A classic denim jacket hits at hip length, which is ideal for pairing with jeans or pants, since it won't cut you off at the waist. A cropped denim jacket is a good choice if you want to wear it with skirts and dresses, as the shorter length visually raises your waist and elongates your legs. Just don't go too short, as it can look a little dated! Ideally, the hem will hit right around your belly button.

Comfort is key. You want your jacket to be tran-seasonal and have enough room to layer underneath. If you are always on the run, picking up kids or chasing the dog, ideally choose a jacket that has a touch of stretch (elastane) in the fabric. 

SHOP MY PICKS

1. H&M Denim jacket R 429

2. Mr Price - Embroidered Denim Rider R180.00

3. Mango Decorative rips denim jacket - R949 (on sale)

4. Forever New - Zoe badged denim jacket vintage R899.00

STREET STYLE INSPIRATION

ZANDO - LEVI’S ® ZIP FRONT TRUCKER RECORD BLUE  R 1599

ZANDO - LONDON HUB FASHION DENIM JACKET DARK WASH R 699

ZANDO - London Hub Fashion Denim Jacket Light Wash  R 699

ZANDO - All About Eve Zeggie Bomber Blue R 1449

Available @ Superbalist - Chris badge denim jacket R699

Available @ Superbalist - Miri denim destroy jacket R899

Available @ Spree - Denim Jacket with Chain and Pearl Details Blue

Photo credit: theimpression.com

Photo credit: @timuremek_photography 

Photo credit: showpo.com

Photo credit: elleapparelblog.com

Photo credit: theteacherdiva

Photo credit: tesschristinexo

Photo credit: Fashion Anarchy

Photo credit: little blonde book

Photo credit: Kristy Who

Photo credit: Getty Images

Photo credit: Getty Images

Photo credit: Stuff She Likes

Photo credit: Babes In Velvet

Selena Gomez denim jacket street style

Photo credit: Rose and Ivy journal

Photo credit: Chic Wish

Photo credit: Feed Puzzle

As you can see, the possibilities for styling a denim jacket are virtually endless. I love denim – it’s so easy just to throw over pretty much any weekend casual outfit.


Till' next time xo





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