Shop Til You Dance!

For all you fashion culture fanatics out there, we at MBF Trend Consulting have been out and about to give you the rundown on all our favorite super chic happenings from parties to celebrity appearances, performances, and most importantly fun!

To kick off fashion week on Thursday, September 8th, the third annual Fashion’s Night Out was celebrated internationally as stores in 18 countries extended their hours to promote the retail industry and give shoppers an experience with a little extra pizzazz. From modern day disco dance parties to carnival inspired extravaganzas, a particular light, cheerful mood took over New York City. Even the weather was on our side as the dark, gloomy clouds held out just in time for the global fashion event to take over the city.

photo via: Racked NY

BG Best in Show
From catwalk to the dogwalk, Bergdorf Goodman reminded us that canine’s love fashion too! Their 2nd annual dog fashion show featured fashion designers and their pups including Joseph Altuazarra, Cushine et Ochs, Lela Rose, and the highlight of the night, Badgley Mischka’s two daschunds dressed in wedding gowns! Other fabulous highlights from Bergdorf’s include guest appearances galore by Jason Wu, Narciso Rodriguez, Thakoon, and Oscar de la Renta as well as a musical performance by Audrianna Cole. To check out more of the super cute doggie looks check out Bergdorf Goodman's blog!

video via: YouTube

Alexander Wang’s Talent Show
Not only is Alexander Wang an expert fashion designer, but now he can include to his accomplishments, a clever talent scout. His FNO festivities of choice included a daring talent show live from his store where he, and a panel of Glee’s Lea Michele and Vogue’s Anna Wintour and Hamish Bowles picked the winner. Contestants were chosen by sending him a 30-90 second video showcasing their best moves, with prizes that included fall bags and T products. America does have talent and apparently style too! Let’s also not forget to mention the $5,000 shopping spree giveaway that was rewarded from visiting his website during the month of September! Oh la la!

video via: YouTube

Macy’s Herald Square

Macy’s was the shopping destination for affordable fashion, live music, and a variety of celebrities and musicians alike. The fashion energy was in the air as guest appearances from the likes of editor Anna Dello Russo, model Karolina Kurkova, designers Rachel Roy and Tommy Hilfiger hit Macy’s red carpet. Bobbi Brown and her makeup team gave tutorials and talked with beauty enthusiasts while performances by Joss Stone and Samantha Ronson electrified the crowd!

photo via: Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony at the Ace Hotel
If FNO isn’t a total circus as it is, Opening Ceremony created one. Proclaimed El Mercado De Carnaval and inspired by the liveliness of Argentina, the fiesta featured everything from carnival games to tango performances and even a chat on Argentinean wine with Vogue’s Food Editor, Jeffrey Steingarten. However, this fashion funhouse was not like the rest with stands sponsored by fashion’s hottest, like Rodarte cotton candy, an Opening Ceremony x Muppets water pistol challenge, an Alexander Wang ski ball game among endless goodies by Pamela Love and Band of Outsiders, to name a few. Also who could forget, a special guest appearance by Miss Piggy herself!

photo via: Tiffany

Disco Night at Tiffany
From jewelry mecca to disco dance party, Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue Flagship took a turn in time to not only celebrate in FNO festivities but also take the opportunity to introduce the new Tiffany Era collection. As we see fashion forward trendsetters shifting to a 70’s inspired mindset, Tiffany takes the lead in the jewelry sector to bring forth bold, geometric pieces, which were sported by live models in the windows. As the rest of the store transformed into this 70’s styled disco ball, the spirit of FNO lived on with a Pop Art photo booth, special appearances by Tiffany designers, fashion presentations influenced by nonetheless 70’s style ethics, and a super swank musical performance by Gossip Girl fashionista, Leighton Meester.

Despite all the madness, we managed to photograph some of the fashion obsessed out and about in SoHo dressed in their best and ready to celebrate the spirit of fashion week. Here are some looks that grabbed our eye!

Marciano: Zara jacket and slacks, American Apparel shirt, vintage hat

Ashley: Vintage Escada blouse, H&M jeans, no label jacket, Chanel bag, Jeffrey Campbell boots

Kerri: Betsey Johnson dress

Dominic: Betsey Johnson top and vest

Adtresa: All vintage

While we had so much fun this year, word on the street is this may be the last Fashion's Night Out celebration. Has what started with the primary purpose to promote spending turned into one big out of control party? We guess we'll just have to wait until final word from FNO's creator herself, Anna Wintour. Let us know what you think, where you went, and what fabulous goodies you bought!

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London Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2012

Yes, I am aware that it is Wednesday today, and LFW is finishing today. The delay my friends, is down to my decision to have a dinner party on the opening weekend of fashion week and work commitments. Not too clever, especially as I decided to make a huge feast. I was in the kitchen instead of at shows. How times have changed. But, I send apologies with some of the shows that I did manage to get to and some of my favourite shows of the week. 

Paul Costelloe

You just know that LFW is truly here, when you get to Somerset House at 8:45am and everyone is balancing in heels and carefully clutching their Vanilla Lattes. I thought I was going to be late to the show, I am not a morning person. But, the show was running late... of course, which I really should have known. After, the usual fuss of what colour dots everyone has on their invites, we were finally seated. The collection was inspired by the 1962 film 'What Ever Happened to Baby Jane' with a Parisian mood. There were metallics, volume and silks. A very feminine and flirty collection, just the thing to make you smile at 9am. As always, the soundtrack was great too. 

Caroline Charles

Whilst waiting for the show to start, Boris Johnson appeared to open LFW. He's adorable. I voted for him, therefore I feel a special connection to him. After a spot of people watching, posing or trying to not pose for style hunters and getting over my Boris-induced-excitement, we went into the show tent. The collection was sophisticated, colourful and had wonderful cuts. A very grown-up collection with dropped waistlines and sparkling jewels. Perfect for elegant evenings and tea parties. The definition of refinement. 

Erdem

Ethereal romance at its best. This collection was breathtakingly beautiful. Each look (bar the sexy hotpants) was feminine, soft and very, very pretty. The prints, as always with Erdem were stunning, his translations of them this season were perfect. Touches of sheer lace broke up the print and a heavier laser-cut white lace, stood alone. Quite possibly the prettiest trench coat featured in this collection, as did a pair of gorgeous mini gloves. Pleated skirts added to the romantic look, as did off the shoulder dresses. Love.

Issa London

Daniella Issa Helayel took us on a trip to the tropics this season. There were gorgeous pastels and pineapple prints. Block stripes, fringing and cute dresses were all seen. Elegant lace looks, stood out for me, but the prints were definitely the stars of the show. Pretty and prim jackets and skirts were lovely, and I'm sure the Duchess of Cambridge sprung to many peoples minds. The carnival costume at the end was a fun and gorgeous way to close the show.

House of Holland

I'm sure the whole world knows about my snakeskin obsession by now. Thanks to H&M for their amazing skin print collection, amazing. Anyway, the collection was a mix of the usual over the top and fabulous pieces that we are accustomed to. Pastel colours were paired with snakeskin braces, belts and boots. Then there was bleach and paint splattered denim, biker jackets with snake sleeves, tartan prints and oversized leopard print. Crazy, fabulous and fun... a good time.

Temperley London

A gorgeous collection with influences from the twenties. Headscarfs and sunglasses were the accessories of choice. Art-deco embellishments, and feminine florals were on sensual silks and sheer pieces. Evening dresses had a Grecian quality and pieces of lace hinted at lingerie. I adored the jumpsuits and occasional fringed looks. 

Roksanda Ilincic

This show had such great use of colour, especially with the experimental silhouette it offered. Mustard, turquoise, magenta and a little monochrome all came down the catwalk. They all incorporated some volume in each look, whether through a bell sleeve or exaggerated hip. Paper-bag waists featured and were accentuated with neon orange rope belts. 

Paul Smith

Every season Paul Smith shows us how menswear should be done for women. A white, cropped trouser suit opened the show, with patent loafers. Grey and blue tartan trousers with a matching blouse looked perfect with a polka dot bag. The added femininity came in the form of wrap dresses, sleeveless day dresses, and skirts. Silk drawstring trousers, also gave a nod to athleticism. 

Mark Fast 

Knits are what Mark Fast does, and he does them very well. He evolved his collection this season to include a few neon dresses, to work with the tropical mood. The knits were gorgeous in their sandy nude hue. Some were off shoulder with gold fringing, there were tiers, mermaid hems and tribal influences. A nude maxi was very sexy and contoured, my favourite look of the show. The touches of neon with the sand worked very well and had a youthful effect. 

Giles

As soon as the opening look of an elaborate feathered swan headpiece, courtesy of Stephen Jones came out, the collection was destined for greatness. It was beautiful, the swan theme played through until the end, undergoing many transitions in the process. The plumes of extravagant feathers gave way into a beautiful swan print, which led to stunning ball gowns. Along the way, were metallic looks for a modern edge including a gorgeous laser-cut silver. Amazing collection. 

Burberry Prorsum

One of my favourite collections for Spring/Summer 2012 so far. Possibly because it wasn't very Summery, and I'm an A/W girl all the way. The pieces were very natural and tribal with African influences. Trench coats were given yet another wondrous makeover, this time with full skirts, raffia and beaded collars. Canvas skirts were worn with beaded tops and gave off a very utilitarian feel. Crochet and raffia details were also present, and looked great on the bags, belts and hats. Cropped parkas were delightful as were the cocoon coats... which I'm sure we can wear, it probably will not be hot anyway. Tunics with heavy collars, African printed wrap skirts and slashed pleated dresses were also winners. I loved it all. 

Next up... Milan <3

Photos: www.catwalking.com

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BbyAngel in Turkey (Outfits)

My sister and Me

Hello FashionDolls, it's been a long time since I've wrote a personal text on my blog! I went to Turkey this summer vacation, with my sister. We had an amazing time, we went to Gümbet, Bodrüm! Turkey is such a beautiful country and i can't wait to go back next year! I know everyone is already back 2 school but I just wanted to share the outfits I wore on my vacation x

Shirt - Vintage

Bikini - Gift

Hat - New Yorker

Bracelets - H&M and Primark

Ring: Vero Moda

Sunglasses: Ray Ban

Dress - My sister xD

Necklace - I Am

Dress - Only

Bracelet - C&A

Sunglasses - Ray Ban

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Falling For Fall

Autumn in New York is one of the best time of year to witness the true beauty this City has to offer. With cooler temperatures and festive activities it’s the perfect time to experience a different side of New York City.

Today we offer you a fun-filled guide about what to look forward to in the upcoming weeks, as we transition from Summer into the crisp calm spirit of Fall!

photo via Time Out New York

Leaves Changing
What is Fall without watching the leaves change -- from a lively pigment of green to vibrant shades of crimson, amber, and marigold? The best part about Autumn (as our close cousins refer to it) in the City is the many places you can experience the varying hues of the season -- without ever leaving any of the five boroughs! Take a stroll through Central Park’s open meadow just below Belvedere Castle -- or to Prospect Park Lake to see plentiful rich maples in the midst of transition. Other great spots that really immerse you in nature are Fort Greene Park’s Tree Trail home to over 40 different species of plant life and Inwood Hill Park’s hiking trails. Also, with the Botanical Garden’s online foliage tracker you can detect from home when the leaves will hit their peak in autumnal hues before even planning your visit.

photo via New York Music Theatre Festival

New York Music Theatre Festival
For $20 the NYMT festival offers over thirty musicals, dance productions, concerts and special events in New York City's theatre district. From hip-hop to rock to dramas and comedies, don't miss out on this exciting annual three-week event that highlights new talents, artists, and productions to everyone's liking!

photo via Bard Graduate Center

Hats: An Anthology by Steven Jones
With more than 250 hats on display ranging from 12th century Egyptian to contemporary design, this exhibit showcases everything from motorcycle helmets to top hats, plastic tiaras, and of course hats worn by celebrities. Curated by British milliner Steven Jones, the hat collection seeks to educate and influence by showing the process of inspiration and creation as well as featuring contemporary NY milliners. Be sure to check out some of our favorite picks which include Estee Lauder’s turban, Babe Ruth’s baseball cap, and Elsa Schiaparelli’s shoe hat! As they say ... if the shoe fits, wear it!

photo via Jane's Carousel

Jane's Carousel
Looking for something affordable and lighthearted to do? Made in 1922 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company Jane’s Carousel has been completely restored and opened to the public at Brooklyn Bridge Park, DUMBO. For $2 you can ride a carousel that features 48 charming carved horses, 2 chariots while enjoying a fabulous view of the Brooklyn waterfront! With much of the original elements remaining it’s like taking a short, scenic ride into history.

photo via FIT Museum

Daphne Guinness Exhibition, FIT
Calling on all fashionistas! This week a special exhibition about one of the most profound style icons -- Daphne Guinness. This exhibit conveys her extreme personal style and couture collecting obsession of clothes and accessories -- from the likes of Alexander McQueen, Chanel and Nina Ricci to name a few. As Valentino once said ... "life is a stage for Daphne". You don't want to miss the show!

photo via The New York Times

Fine-Tuning: A Fall Beauty Wish List
Autumn is the perfect time -- right smack in between a fun-filled Summer and the up-and-coming holiday craze -- to take some time for you  self and rejuvenate. It's also a fabulous time to test out the newest and hottest beauty products hitting the market. Our Fall picks? To name a few M.E. Skinlab's new cleanser -- sold exclusively online; Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick and an absolute must ... Tribeca's Tenoverten Salon. This new nail haven has an entire wall displaying nail hues ranging from mossy greens to your staple pink and red shades and offers a large variety of rare and upscale polish brands like Chanel, NARS, RGB as well as our own personal favorite -- Uslu Airlines. Check it out, let us know which shades are your personal favorites for this Fall!

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NewYYork Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2012: Last shows

Vera Wang 

When you think of Vera Wang, your mind usually gets transported to images of wedding dresses. This collection will make you rethink that image, for a while. The pieces had an athletic elegance look with a distinct fairytale feel to it. There were peplums, nipped in waists, corsets, a gorgeous print and quite a lot of white and pastels. The collection had a diaphanous quality to them and gave us a little something different for Wang. 

Tory Burch

Femininity was captured in a 1920's light. The pieces were gorgeous. There was a clash of prints, in the form of stripes, polka dots and florals. They worked very well together. The theme played on 20's daywear and reminded me of early Chanel. Ruffles and tiered skirts and dresses added some flirty fun to the looks. 

Oscar De La Renta

What a refreshing and lively collection! The looks were younger than what we are used to from the designer, and they were stunning. Taffeta evening gowns were topped with lace t-shirts for a touch of modernity. There was quite a lot of white in this collection, and some very summer florals. A delightful shift dress carried a blue floral print and was worn with a croc belt. The occasional fur piece found its way into the collection, as did a few high-waisted trousers. Feathers, towards the end of the show added lightness and movement to the proceedings. 

Hervé Léger

You pretty much know what to expect from the Azria's collections. Bandages, sex and power are usually on the agenda. This season was no different but the theme was. There were tribal and gladiator influences and a predominantly metallic palette. The cut-out and fringing details added extra elements. My favourite look was a gorgeous white dress, long at the back and short at the front with fringing and a perfect belt. The gladiator sandals, were slightly distracting in some places. 

Marchesa

I just love Marchesa, I wore Marchesa for my graduation and the love affair will continue. This collection was very different for the design duo, primarily because it was a runway show. The pieces were as gorgeous and breathtaking as always, but in a different way. They were much simpler and form fitting and introduced another silhouette. There were flapper dresses, horsehair, tulle and chiffon galore. I think this may be one of my favourite collections from Marchesa. Beautiful. 

Sophie Theallet

A very sensual and feminine collection, the floor sweeping maxis were given a casual edge with the inclusion of pockets. The jewel tones added an elegance to the pieces and a luxurious quality. The shirt-dresses and trousers were also very strong, as were the occasional sexy touches such as cut-outs and slits. 

Badgley Mischka

This collection had a lot of bow action. This makes it my kind of show. The pieces were very structured and quite stiff. The palette was stunning in pretty and girly tones. When the structure became a bit much, there were some more casual looks thrown into the mix from their other line. Peplums were a plenty, which we have seen a lot of this week. There were some very lovely pieces here. 

Costello Tagliapietra 

Oh, how I love these guys. This collection gave us printed leggings, wrap dresses in jersey and satin, jumpsuits and overall gorgeousness. The pieces were very simple and showed of the design duos skills, especially in draping. The prints were lovely florals with a modern, city chic edge. 

Marc by Marc Jacobs

A simple collection, giving a Marc twist with the use of neon tones. Shift dresses, that would have otherwise been basic, popped in their orange colour. One of my favourite pieces was a white shirtdress. Again, it could have lacked interest if it wasn't for the super short length and volume on the sleeves. Peplums, were also spotted but in a more casual way. There were some sporty influences at play here also. 

Onto London Fashion Week tomorrow : ) I have a 9am start at Paul Costelloe... It is now nearly 9pm and I should probably decide what to wear...

Photos: www.catwalking.com

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Back 2 School (College) Fashion

Aden Yoo student at Fashion Institute of Technology 

J.Crew shirt, H&M shorts, clutch from Korea

Sandra King marketing major at Portland State University

Asos dress, Ana shoes, Hue tights, Target bag

Shannon Hong student at Parsons the New School for Design

Uniqlo shirt, American Apparel shorts, Balenciaga bag

Jackie student at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Yaxuan Wang student at Beloit College

French Connection dress, Tod’s shoes, Marc Jacobs sunglasses

Regan Mays drama student at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts

Seven for All Mankind jeans, Steve Madden boots, Tory Burch bag

Holly McKee student at Vanderbilt University

vintage shirt from great-grandmother, American Apparel skirt, West 31st shoes, thrifted belt and bag

Jessica Appiah student at University of Southern California

Lia Keane student at University of Southern California

source: elle.com

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Almond & Marzipan Sponge Cake

Almond & Marzipan Sponge Cake

I know, I have an obsession with almonds, marzipan etc. So I wholeheartedly apologise for the plethora of almondness on my blog, I can't help myself. This cake is yummy, the marzipan chunks in the cake make it even more delicious. Now, I have a half empty packet of marzipan in my cupboard, I'm sure it will be consumed within the next 24 hours. Does anyone have a padlock?

Ingredients:

200g Butter, softened

200g Golden caster sugar

4 large eggs

100g Plain flour

2 tsp Baking powder

130g Ground almonds

50g Roasted hazelnuts, chopped

120g Golden marzipan, chopped

20g Flaked almonds, toasted

60g Icing sugar

1 tbsp Lemon juice

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/Fan 160C/Gas 4. Lightly grease a 23cm square tin (5cm deep) and line the base with greaseproof/baking paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric whisk, until pale, light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs and whisk between each addition, add a little bit of flour if it starts to curdle. Sift over the flour and baking powder, add the ground almonds and fold in gently with a big spoon. Fold in the hazelnuts and marzipan.

3.  Pour the mix into the tin. Bake for 50 minutes until a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the centre of the cake. 

4. Cool a little in the tin and then remove to a wire rack to cool completely, then scatter the flaked almonds. For the lemon icing, sift the icing sugar into a bowl, add the lemon juice and stir to a single-cream consistency. Drizzle over the cake, then cut into squares. 

Lipstick & Marzipan *TIP*: I omitted the plums from the original recipe, but you can add plums or cherries if you like. Quarter the fruit and scatter over the mix once you pour the mix into the tin and gently push down. 

Recipe: Adapted by myself from the original recipe in Delicious Magazine

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