Tuesday's Fad features ANN YEE

This Tuesday were featuring the beautiful drapery and funky, adrogynous fits of local designer Ann Yee.  While her first line launched only last fall, her experience designing for labels like LaRok, Elizabeth and James and Alice and Olivia made her a pro at draping knits and creating cool pieces for New York fashion lovers like herself.  


We're dying to get our hands on that white draped top--not to mention our obsession with the pockets sneakily hidden in seemingly every outfit!! We were lucky enough to catch a quick conversation with Ann and discussed her two loves: designing clothes and New York City.


Daily Razzler: 
We cannot stop gushing to our friends about how much we loved your line at Fashion Week. The cuts and colors are perfect for going from the office to out with friends or hanging on the weekends; we love!! 
Our adoration aside--what do YOU love most about what you do?


Ann Yee:

I love creating things that can make someone feel confident and cool. My biggest reward is seeing people wearing my designs in this way.  Also, the process is actually fun from start to finish, from researching, collecting fabrics, sketching, draping, trim shopping, etc.  It’s very hands on which keeps it personal and I’m lucky I can call it my job!  I don’t think I’d survive at a desk all day…

Daily Razzler:
Ummm yes we hear you on that one!  We're pretty sure the only thing that could make a lot of people suffer long hours at a cold cubicle is...New York City. So what is it that you love about this city??


Ann Yee:

Makes my job so much easier --- there’s constant excitement everywhere you go and inspiration surrounds you 24/7.  The people are definitely incomparable and something is always going on.  I LOVE the flea markets – from Hell’s kitchen to Chelsea to the Brooklyn Flea – there’s always great treasures to be found that can spark countless ideas!! 


Check out http://www.annyeecollection.com/ for more information on this designer to watch--and get peeks at her latest outfits.  Here's to you Ann...and more pockets, please!


XX at

Tuesday's Fad features ArtsEcho Galleria

As a New Yorker, we pride ourselves on being super fast-paced. We like everything done quick and efficiently—with no mistakes. I mean walking in this city is the equivalent to a slow jog! With this being said, I trust that a majority of us focus on the destination rather than the journey—am I right? Next time you find yourself hustling to get somewhere on time, take a brief moment to notice your surroundings. You’ll notice everything from a cozy coffee shop to a gallery full of colorful, intricate pieces. In my case, I found myself drawn to a small vintage shop in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen.

ArtsEcho Galleria was too adorable to pass up—with its mod outfit on display outside to the flashy sign that drew me in. After speaking with the owner of the store, I learned that she and her business partner were famous theater performers in the 1970’s and had traveled all over the world accumulating pieces from Paris to Milan. I also learned that ArtsEcho is the only vintage shop in NYC dedicated to supporting fiber artists selling everything from unique jewelry to vintage clothing. Additionally, they promote sustainable fashion by providing vintage fabric to emerging designers, which results in a collaborative in-house line of couture apparel. They even use the space to host events such as concerts, readings, and fashion shows!

Vintage Valentino

I told her that while I studied abroad in Rome I worked at Valentino, and immediately the designer was pointed out all over the store—like this vintage lime green peacoat. 

I found so many gems; a 1950’s “housewife” winter coat, an original Halston classic, a Christian Dior suit, hats from the 1920’s and 30’s, and top it off a Pucci handbag original. She was so fun too, making me try on everything—like this leopard jacket she’s had since the 60’s, love it! 

1950's Jacket

Select Pieces

Leopard Wear

Halston Hot Pink Jacket

Hats from the 1920's

1930's

Funky Finds

Pucci

Dior Coat

So if you’re in Hell’s Kitchen and want a fabulous vintage dress for an upcoming party or just want to pick up some classic originals head into the ArtsEcho Galleria at 455 west 43^rd street.

Xx AT

http://www.artsechogalleria.com/

Tuesday's Fad features METALSKIN

This past Thursday, Big Drop NYC teamed up with the new leather accessory line, METALSKIN, to host a fabulous party that had shoppers like myself in awe over all of the colorful wrap designs. Founded in 2009 by designer Alicia Halegua, METALSKIN is the ideal integration of leather skins and metal elements—DUH METALSKIN.

Everyone was picking up some of these colorful bracelet must-haves that can be worn alone, stacked as bangles or snapped together. They come in what sounds like a burger joint menu; classic, double classic, thick, cuff, and vegan. I opted for the Cuff Shimmer Python, because it’s the perfect accessory to work alongside my new Haute Hippie jacket…plus it’s perfect for adding a little shine to any cocktail dress.

Rachel Heller models a double classic

CW's Alexandra Vissicchio

Available in a core selection of neutral colors as well as changing special-edition bolds, each bracelet is made from genuine leathers (embossed, patent, metallic, perforated) and exotic skins (python, lizard and karung) that can be dressed up or down depending on your mood/style. Look out CC SKYE, METALSKIN will undoubtedly be stealing your spotlight soon enough.

Cuff Shimmer Python: $139.00

Classic Black Matte Snake makes the perfect holiday gift: $98.00

For something brighter, try the Classic Ocean Blue: $48.00

xx AT

                                                                 Shop METALSKIN

Tuesday's Fad features Alabama Chanin

ALABAMA CHANIN-- Alabama Chanin is an eco-friendly company that focuses on designing an array of unique products through slow and careful design. What I admire most about Alabama Chanin, is that they craft limited-edition items for an individual as well as for a home. They even have a bridal line with gowns perfect for a relaxed ceremony outside.

All of the products are made by hand using a combination of new, organic, and recycled materials. Constructed by talented artisans, this line of sustainable style seems to exude a relaxed, playful feeling of being free—preferably in a whimsical garden somewhere down south.

Notable press includes; American Vogue, Japanese Vogue, Interior Design, Surface, Vogue Living, Bloom, NOWNESS, and the New York Times online.  

If you would like to see for yourself, Alabama Chanin will be featured tonight at Skylight West—500 West 36^th at 10^th Avenue at 7:00 p.m. Other eco-friendly designers will be featured as well; Behnaz Sarafpour, Costello Tagliapietra, and Johnson Hartig. Music will be provided by, Fabrizio Moretti (from the Strokes) with an open bar and delicious hors d’oeuvres, compliments of Lexus. If you would like to go and see Alabama Chanin rock the runway tonight, I would strongly advise you to join us razz girls. See you there!

Xx AT

Shop Alabama Chanin

*Photos taken from the Alabama Chanin Website



Also, feel free to click this link and vote for Alabama Chanin! They are tied for first and need to win!! You can say you did your good deed for the day...
http://www.articulate-sf.net/lexus/lhl3/competitions/competitions-fashion/vote 

Tuesday's Fad features James Coviello

After visiting the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side this past weekend, it was only natural for us to look forward to poached eggs and mimosas afterwards followed by a stroll down Orchard St. to peek into some of the boutiques. Since I am a certified Shopoholic, I squeeled—yes squeeled, when I reached the James Coviello shop located at 70 Orchard St. If the sign outside the door isn’t rustic and vintage enough, wait until you step inside.

James Coviello, is an Italian designer who surprisingly grew up in Fairfield, CT. Immediately after high-school, he enrolled in Parsons School of Design. In 1987, he left Parsons to design jewelry for Erickson Beamon. Soon after, his eye for accessory design gained him recognition in the press; especially with his hat collection. James eventually met Anna Sui, who asked him to help her create a line of hats and knitwear for her first runway show. To this day, it is still a flourishing line. Then in 2000, James created and put on his first runway collection that included ready-to-wear, knitwear, and accessories. His latest project, JamesCoviello.com, is a website designed to stimulate viewers around the world about his many-faceted interests and specific design philosophies.

His only shop, located on Orchard, is filled with carefully detailed floral dresses, vintage post cards and sunglasses, hand made headbands, and tons of one-of-a-kind accessories. I was in heaven. What it made it more heavenly, was the fact that James himself uses the space behind his boutique to design his latest creations. The girls who work retail there also assist him in designing. I picked up some sunglasses and a turquoise dress that had fall colors woven into the fabric.

If you are in the neighborhood, I would strongly suggest stopping into James Coviello’s expert shop. It is one of those rare shops that still represent the magic of a designer—not feeding into the desires of the public but staying true to his own.


http://www.jamescoviello.com/

Tuesday's Fad features Sisters on the Runway

One in four women are sadly affected by domestic violence. In 2005, this tragic truth inspired three 15 year old girls to come up with an organization that would help raise over $50,000 for women and children influenced annually. Elizabeth Eddy, Gabriela Graham, and Juliana Colangelo, developed Sisters on the Runway as a concept that challenges youth to utilize their love for fashion design to help change the world.

Every year they throw a fashion show fundraiser where students are allowed to use their artistic expression to gain awareness and exposure for Sisters on the Runway. This year, the event was held at Parsons The New School of Design. Domestic violence is a situation that affects every community, gender, age, and race. Originally, these three young ladies found it hard to believe that although such a major issue in this country, it is rarely touched upon. That is why Sisters on the Runway has teamed up with two major shelter organizations.

 Safe Horizon of New York City works with the New School University branch. Their unique one-stop system allows clientele to receive all necessary assistance to escape their abusers. One of the first women who spoke at the event, talked about how Safe Horizon helped her every step of the way during her process of escaping from her abusive and self-destructive husband. Additionally, they are also one of the largest domestic violence shelter systems in the country, offering 425 beds to victims and their children. Their second shelter of choice is Shelter Our Sisters of New Jersey that provides safe shelter and 24 hour service to women and children affected by physical, sexual, economic, and emotional abuse.

The fashion that was displayed was anomalous and funky; showcasing the designers’ many talents; Papasree Kiattipongthaworn, Nicki Ray Muller, Abby Lal, and Meghan Spielman. Overall, it was a generous experience that expressed a strong adoration for fashion—all while taking a step to end domestic violence amongst women. 

Sisters on the Runway

Tuesday's Fad features Allison Parris

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

ALLISON PARRIS-- I recently had the luxury of meeting Allison Parris at her after-party for her Fall/Winter line. A tall, pale, stunning brunette, she stands out—like a major up and coming designer should in a city like New York. She was immediately enthusiastic about having The Daily Razzler photograph and publicize her clothes, which all symbolize girly yet upper east side sophistication. Allison explained that each piece is created with an environmentally conscious, feminine, social, and beautiful girl in mind. From Blair Waldorf-like party dresses to skirts that can be worn with killer tights, young New Yorkers should be getting their hands on some of these pieces (I should know, the tab I wracked up at the trunk show still haunts me).   

After speaking with her more, I learned that Allison was born in Santa Clarita, California and raised in Birmingham, Michigan, where she grew up in a creative household where artistic development was highly encouraged. She began her professional training in fashion design, pattern-making and sewing in her early teenage years and was designing evening gowns for clients throughout the Detroit area before she graduated high school. She continued to develop her talent at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, while working with staples of the American Fashion industry including Catherine Malandrino and Cynthia Rowley. Carving a name for herself designing custom evening and bridal gowns, Allison developed her classic, feminine style and gained recognition for these iconic looks. 
 


Not only are all her pieces eco-friendly, they are also memorably striking. Perfect for birthday dinners, charity events, or snagging a table at the Box, wearing Allison Parris guarantees an extravagant night in New York City. I wore my gold sequined mesh top to the Gorillaz concert at MSG last Friday and the compliments were endless—not to mention the comfortable fit that allowed me to rock out all night.

Xx,
AT

http://www.allisonparris.com/