Karma From California

Karma a new california brute style beverage will debut in New York for the style 360 shows, the alternative fashion week spot which will be showcasing eight hot designers and one design house to showcase their Spring 2008 lines.

Crisp refreshing taste along with sleek packaging will be in everybody's hands at style 360. The CEO of Karma Patrick Wilson states” I want to remind consumers that karma is a lifestyle. It’s about enjoying life, living in the moment and just having fun”. Described as “clean crisp and dry”, grapes are carefully selected from california vineyards located on the central coast and posses intense aromas with hints of melon and pear.

Retail sales of Karma will be sold individually $7.49 and 4-packs $29.96 in local shops as well finer liquor stores.

ISO'S Moisture-Rich Hydra Collection

With the ever changing climate throughout the world keeping one’s hair in top condition can be a challenge. As most top hair stylists will tell you conditioning your hair is a key in fighting the elements of nature and hair salons.

The ISO Hydra collection designed with self-adjusting formulas to go deep into the hair shaft where moisture is needed making the hair and cuticle smooth without weighing it down.

Hydra Cleanse hydrates and strengthens hair with humectants and fatty acid conditioners. A special blend of high and low molecular weight cationic conditioners smooth dry damaged hair. According to ISO this shampoo is wonderful for dry scalp conditions.

Hydra condition takes moisture to the limit making dry coarse hair full of body. This restorative conditioner repairs the cuticle without adding extra weight. As well it’s great for that dry scalp condition one might encounter with natural elements along with post salon chemical service. Also added is UV protectants that guard against the sun’s damaging effects.

Hydra Moisture Creme a leave in treatment restores dehydrated hair and is the key element for blow drying and styling foundations. The advanced formula contains Lecithin the powerful lipid that replaces lost moisture. Also inside is Anti-static Resins that provide flexible hold and calm frizz and static. Special Silicones provide thermal protection during heat styling.

Retail prices for Hydra Cleanse is $8.00, for Hyrda Condition is $9.00 and Hydra Moisture Creme $12.00 The entire ISO collection can be found on their web site.

Spa V in South Beach

Down in South Beach Florida a favourite spot of ours here at The Fashion Tribune a new spa experience has been discovered at Hotel Victor known as SPA V, a oasis of rejuvenation and relaxation. Opened in 2005, the 6,000 square foot spa holds close ancient traditions of wellness and beauty within a modern setting.

The spa was designed by Jacques Garcia where he has made a tranquil, private escape done in rich hues and redefined architectural detailing which include curved ceilings and neoclassical pillars. The apex of the spa is the private hammam, a turkish-style steam bath with a co-ed environment.

The staff at Spa V are trained in european techniques, making sure each guest receives an exceptional experience.

Spa V offers a full range of European-styled treatments, including facials, massages, nail care and waxing. One of the signature treatments is Hammam v ($250) which is the traditional Moroccan practice of cleansing the body with black olive beldi soap then exfoliating with a Hammam glove, followed by a mask of Moroccan lava clay and hydrating massage with soothing body milk.

Products used at Spa V are individualized to guest’s skin type, using the French product line Anne Semonin. As well there are manicure and pedicure services.

For more information on Spa V and Hotel Victor the site provides more information. The Hotel Victor is located at 1144 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Fl.

Charlott Vasberg Fall Handbag Collection

Just in time for the Fall season Charlott Vasberg has some great offering of handbags and accessories. With interesting uses of hardware both as decoration and function, combined with supple leathers make for a good alternative to high priced “it” bags.

The Swedish born designer studied at Central Saint Martin’s taking part in the Women’s Wear MA course. With a background in clothing this can be seen with her handbag designs incorporating zippers and pockets placed in various places which create multi- openings to stash whatever you need.

Over the past six season she has grown leaps and bounds, selling the line at Selfridges in London, Barneys in New York and Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong. Her signature pieces include the classic twist bag and her draped suitcase bag.

Prices range from $800-$1,000.00 for handbags, and for smaller leather goods and clutches $300.00-$500.00.
For more information her site displays the entire collection.

HUGO XX & XY October fragrance release

HUGO fragrance will roll out there new modern and sensual his & her’s scent named HUGO XX & XY. The two contrasting scents reflect the relationship driven by intellect and seduction.

HUGO XX inspired by the aroma of basmati rice creates a feminine scent similar to the HUGO woman fragrance but infused with a more masculine character. The top note of lychee and a floral heart of basmati rice and Jasmine Sambac create an appealing scent.

HUGO XY similar to the classic HUGO by HUGO BOSS the XY fragrance is a more modern with notes of mint and basil heart which makes for a pleasing green bouquet. The scent starts out fruity and crisp with hints of Pear tree and develops into crushed ice, basil leaf and mint. The base notes of the fragrance are libanese cedarwood and Hugo’s signature pine tree note.

What set’s XY apart from other scents is the patented “time release technology” which allows the scent to be reactivated on the skin after the first time it’s been sprayed. Thusly greatly cutting down on reapplication and allows for further enjoyment of this great new fragrance.

Both products will be on sale in October at Hugo Boss Boutiques and better department stores. Prices will range between $19.00 to $37.00 for shower items and the fragrance $52.00 to $65.00 depending on size.

Lacoste Elegance For Men

From classic designs and timeless Style Lacoste releases a new fragrance for men called “Lacoste Elegance”. Incorporating ageless style and striving for a modern edge Elegance is a multi-layered fragrance that is as complex as the man who wears it.

The body of this scent combines a woody, spicy, masculine tone and a distinctive dry down with a oriental bouquet. Lacoste Elegance makes a first impression with bright, fresh notes including Penny Royal Peppermint, thyme and juniper berry.

The new scent will be released in September in major retail outlets and well as it’s own retail stores

photo by: Nike Communications

Kaia Peterka Limited Edition Holiday Collection

The Kaia Peterka Holiday 2007 clutches collection draws it inspiration from the world of modern art. Standout pieces are shapes which include minimalist Virtue and classic glamorous starlets. The materials rage from Lamb and Snakeskin to calf hair and silk charmeuse.

The Holiday collection of elegant and functional bags offers high style for whatever the occasion might be, as well being a holiday collection it makes for a great gift for yourself or someone else.

The retail for these clutches rage between $240.00-$495.00. Select styles are carried at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Skins Footwear

Due out this fall will be a new shoe called Skins and they plan to change the way we know footwear. Skins is the first footwear that adapts to the insole foot print.

The shoes are created in a two part interchangeable structure consisting of a outer collapsible skin "the shell". The second part is the “bone” that cradles the foot, the insole.

The advantage of this kind of shoe is once you mold the bone to your foot, it can be changed into any skins shoe they produce. This takes away the process of breaking in new shoes every time you buy them.

There are many different styles for both men and women from casual to semiformal. the shoes have a price range from $100.00 to $400.00. For a price like that and the ability to slip the bone of the shoe into another pair it’s more like an investment in footwear.

These shoes will be found at better shoe stores. For more information please go to www.skinsfootwear.com

Chocolate Bar at Henri Bendel

Henri Bendel gets a shot of chocolate by way of Alison Nelson’s ultra popular chocolate bar. Bendel’s located on Fifth Ave in the heart of New York shopping, provides the Bendel’s shopper with a beautiful retreat with Chocolate Bar at Henri Bendel

A full menu is offered as well the full chocolate line from Chocolate Bar. From graffiti bars to formal gift boxes it seems there is something for all chocolate lovers. States Ed Bucciarelli” Chocolate bar at Henri Bendel is a contemporary take on a social salon”. The atmosphere is relaxed yet very stylish but cures your chocolate fix whenever that time might be.

photos by www.chocolatebarnyc.com

Boule chocolates from LA

For the holiday season we found that Boule has just what the sweet tooth is looking for with luxurious chocolates and ice creams.

Boule has eared it’s place with L.A.’s other high end shops and restaurants. The difference from other pastry stores is the high end confections and the decor. High ceilings, pale blue walls and display cases draws one into this luxe sweets factory.

All the products are handmade from the Boule pastry team. This has shown with the celebrity following with likes of Selma Hayek, Ellen DeGeneres and Orlando Bloom just to name a few.

Altho located in California Boule does ship from it's website www.boulela.com.

Photos: www.boulela.com

Ashley Paige Miami

The Ashley Paige collection for 2008 which had a “Girls Gone Wild” association, it was on the invitation we got, seemed nothing wild at all. We had heard before from another editor that this designer was hot,hot,hot with 20 plus editorial looks in Sports illustrated’s swim issue.

As the collection rolled down the runway the suits just looked plain uncomfortable with the square multi color fasteners used to piece the suits together. As well the WOW factor just was not there, with nothing jumping off the runway.

The retro feel to this collection just does not seem to flow with what’s going on in the world today and seems out of place. Maybe it’s just not Ashleys season and we need to wait for the next collection?

Photo:A.Murphy

Cia Maritima Miami

The 2008 swimwear collection for Cia Martima pulled no punches and showed straigh forward looks which can easily accomodate many different tastes. This is what a good swim collection should be and not stuck in a rut like some others we saw. the cuts are basic which we have no problem and the color pallette is vaired to suit different styles.

There’s a nice mix of non swim looks which compliment the collection. The first time we saw this designer the collecion was in New York and showed strong first time down the runway. A year later and a different location, we got the same. We have a feeling that we will see more from this designer and the possibility of a New York showing might not be out of the question.

Photo:A.Murphy

Red Cater Miami Fashion Week

We have done a few season’s with Red Carter South Beach and we like the progression of this local designer. He has original vision and is setting himself apart from the rest of the pack with what he showed for 2008 Miami Swim.his site

If your looking for ultra sexy cuts this is your man, his sense of color has set him apart from other designers who showed collections this week. As well there were some truly awesome bags and hats to pull together that beach look. Our favourite was the geometric multi colored prints he sent down. Genius and very forward thinking and truly stand out pieces.

The only part we felt which did not flow with the rest of the line was the “broadway” black and white section. The suits are cute but it seemed like a complete 180 degree design direction turnaround. Sometimes less is more and might have proven better to leave those looks for the showroom. But overall Red Carter showed a great collection where there were way more hits than misses. Trust us he's not going away anytime soon.

Photo: A.Murphy

Miss Bikini Best In Show For Miami Swim Shows

Coming over with late minute entry from Italy was Miss Bikini, well known in the Italian market place and showing collections over there for the past few years shipped over to Miami and presented one if not the best swim collection we saw here in Miami.

From the first look to the last we could not find anything wrong with Miss Bikini and the show had a perfect flow.

Between the color and the cuts from this line there is a heavy Italian feel to the clothes. Think Cavalli or Missoni and the vibe runs pretty close. As well the colors are vibrant and varied and there’s alot to choose from, from multi-colored suits, grey metallic (the color grey for the fall season), sea greens and red’s/corals.

The clothing accessories have more of that toss in the bag resort feel to them which we like very much. The pieces are very fashion forward but speak a casual aspect. There’s nothing fussy or structured going on here, it’s all very laid-back with that Italian spirit. Beautiful wraps and loose fitting skirts made with feather light fabrics. As for there bags it’s the same multi colored feel that match the suits ect.. bags are structured and unstructured ala hobo, but seem to be just the right size for a day of shopping or the beach.

Once again we see that European designers are willing to make the trip and showcase great collections. Miss Bikini proved this with a gate to wire win on the Miami runway.

Photo:A.Murphy

DE et DR Collection from Miami

Coming over from Italy to show a swim collection is no easy task, but that is exactly what DE et DR did for the Miami 2007 swim shows. Like European race horses that ship over to the United States they tend to “run big” and the same can be said for this design collection.

The color palette is yellow, red, coral, black and a blue/grey mix that really worked wonderful against a deep dark Miami tan. As for the accessories there were some show hats for the runway but we were very impressed with the bags they showed, beautiful big bright colored bags to hold everything you might need for the trip to the pool or a day of shopping.

It was also a treat to see some things for the kids to wear, the boys trunks looked spot-on and were very modern, while some of the girls outfit’s resembled what the regular models were wearing. So if you looking to make a family swim suit match DE et DR has you covered.

But with fifty yards to the finish line, like a horse jumping it’s shadow in the stretch the collection fell apart and took a left turn showing pieces that looked like a Spring or Fall collection and had nothing to do with swim wear or a resort vibe. But we can understand the reasoning behind this, they did come all the way from Italy.

Photo credit: A.Murphy

True Religion at Miami Fashion Week

True Religion known for there very popular jeans line came down to show off there swim line for Miami Swim 2007. There was nothing out of the ordinary with this collection with your basic straight shooter styles for bikini’s. The color palette is warm with yellows, blues, red’s and some brown. The retro feel from the show with the hippy style looks and guitar’s to boot just does not seem to click for this type of Miami crowd but we are sure it will fly right in line with the west coast California crowd. None the less it’s smart business to expand the line into other area’s which will drive sales upwards.

Photo: A.Murphy