Can I Tell You?

Fast and Furious

2009-12-17T12:04:00.018-05:00

Can I tell you…about Hong Kong. It’s Fast and Furious. It even makes New York look sleepy. I’ve been coming here for so many years it’s like my second home. As soon as I land, I hit the ground running. There’s no time to get over my jet lag.

There are places to go, people to see. I run over to Causeway Bay to check out all the small boutigues that carry local designers and do some shopping. They’re on trend and cost a fraction of the price compared to the major labels. Who doesn’t like guilt free shopping!

Like New York, there’s always something happening and new spots to check out. Fortunately, my best friends Shirley Hiranand and Reyna Harilela who run their own PR firm Bonvivant & Bellavita, invite me to all their events. I attended a private tour and preview dinner at Hullet House, David Yeo’s ten-bedroomed, all suite boutique hotel in the old historic Police building in Kowloon before they opened it to the public. Each room is lavishly decorated with a different theme.

Hong Kong It Girl and Tatler Favorite Audrey Chiu hosted an intimate dinner for me at the members only China Club. The ambience is so 1930’s Shanghai complete with a lounge singer dressed in a fitted silk Qi Pao. The walls are filled with Contemporary Chinese Art that David Tang amassed over the years. After dinner, we head over to another members only watering hole, The Kee Club in Lan Kwai Fong, for a night cap. Marina Bullivant is the hostess with the mostest and always has a bottle of champagne waiting for us whenever we come.

This trip was extra frenetic because aside from my usual work, I’m also here to do a trunk show for Harvey Nichols. They’ve built a following for me over the years so we thought we would up the ante this season with a Rafe shopathon. All of Hong Kong’s best dressed girls showed up and shopped!

By the end of the evening even the display mannequins were bare! To celebrate the evening’s success, we went straight to Dragon I, one of Hong Kong’s coolest nightclubs. This place attracts a very attractive model-y crowd which is always a plus in my book and they also serve really good Chinese food. Tao Miu ( pea shoots) are in season and I can’t eat enough of them. Next stop was the Roxie, a new members only club. DJ Joel Madden was in town from LA and spinning to a very enthusiastic crowd of clubbers. As I was making my exit, I heard a Black Eyed Peas song come on. “I got a feeling, that tonight’s gonna be a good night…”. Indeed it was and I’m ready to do it all over again, on my next trip!

Fall in Love

2009-11-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

Can I tell you... how much I'm loving my Fall 2009 collection. This season I channeled the glory days of New York City’s nightlife in the late 80s. All those nights spent at Susanne Barstch's Copa parties and Jackie 60 on 14th street translated into pieces that let Uptown girls flaunt their Downtown Edge.
My modern day muses are venturing into Williamsburg with their iPods loaded with The Ting Tings and Karen O. They have a flair for mixing and layering making it all look so effortless. The heels are higher than ever and the bags are gently distressed and occasionally perforated with carefully placed zippers, studs and chains. All these elements add up to that tough yet sophisticated vibe so prevalent this season.

Let's start with some of my loves. I am obsessed with function. I believe in accessories that truly help make your life easier. When you marry function with design, the results can be spectacular. Take the Bethany glazed leather hobo inspired by details from the classic Perfecto motorcycle jacket. There are 3 outside pockets and 2 inside organizational compartments; details that you have come to expect with every Rafe bag. It's stunning in black but in bordeaux, it's a traffic stopper!

Next up, the Shenae motorcycle bootie. This is so kick-ass sexy it's on everybody's wish list. It's got a cool rock'n'roll vibe to it. Pair it with skinny jeans for day or your LBD (little black dress) and it changes your whole look. I like mixing tough and feminine elements, it makes the look less predictable. For slumming around the city, I highly recommned the small Shenae cross body in perforated lambskin with a gold underlayer so there's a slight hint of metallic. It's the perfect size, trust me! I love it in black but I love it even more in taupe.

I'm having a major plum moment. It's a rich deep color that goes with almost everything. This Jordana ruffled convertible hobo in buttery soft washed lambskin is a key piece. You can lengthen the straps so you can wear it across your body leaving your hands free or snap the strap back unto itself to wear it on your shoulder. Two looks for the price of one, what's not to love?!

New Yorkers love to walk and these Rebecca suede boots were certainly made for walking. The mid cone heel gives you just enough height but won't have you in pain after a few hours. You can tuck your jeans into them or wear them with wool tights and shorts,(yes, shorts!) if you have the gams and the guts for it. In this photo, she's wearing it with the Elizabeth ruffle large tote in brown washed lambskin. It's the lightest and easiest tote out there. You're in and out in a snap, literally! The leather gets a nice patina the more you wear it and bang it around.

I love the nightlife, I love to boogie...you know the rest! New York has the most amazing nightlife and the best parties. Head over to the BoomBoom Room with the Pixie clutch and you'll be sure to bypass the velvet rope. It makes a bold statement and holds all your evening's necessities and then some! And don't worry about the sequins coming off, they're printed on leather! Isn't that genius?! I know some girls who have bought both silver and gold versions. For evening, gold and silver are basics in my opinion.

Contradiction and unexpected combinations makes for distinctive and memorable design. I thought it would be cool to mix different metal finishes with different sizes of chain then hand stitching them unto the flap of a bag. This way you never have to worry about matching your jewelry, not that anybody really does anymore. Can I tell you... it's beyond fabulous! Everybody, and I mean everybody who sees the Erin flap clutch falls in love with it. I imagine Rachel Zoe seeing this clutch and uttering her famous phrase, "I die!"

Check out the rest of the Rafe collection online. I'm hoping that you'll fall in love with a piece or two or three! Drop me a line, post a comment!

The Tough Go Shopping

2009-10-28T18:15:00.008-04:00

Can I tell you…about Fashion’s Night Out? We've all heard the line, “when the going gets tough, the tough go shopping” and up until recently lived by that motto. But as the economy crashed, the 'tough' stopped shopping resulting in a devastating domino effect that forced businesses to close leaving legions of people unemployed. As sales plummeted, retailers went into a panic, slashing prices left and right training consumers to only shop on sale. For anybody in the fashion industry, this was HELL on Earth! The situation needed fixing!

Anna Wintour to the rescue! Vogue, along with the City of New York and Council of Fashion Designers of America masterminded Fashion’s Night Out, “ a global initiative to promote retail, restore consumer confidence, and celebrate fashion”. Last September 10, after much anticipation and hoopla, hundreds of stores across the five boroughs ( and overseas) stayed open late for one big shoppathon hoping to lure back customers to shop.

Designers were asked to do personal appearances, come up with special items and even show off their hidden talents just for the evening. Everything from designer aprons ( Peter Som), printed canvas totes ( Proenza Schouler) ,singing ( Isaac Mizrahi and Oscar de la Renta), manning the cash register (Pharrell Williams), bartending ( Olsen twins) to catwalk lessons ( Alexander Wang).

Besides all the VIP appearances and activities, there was a limited-edition FNO T-shirt with 40% of the sales’ proceeds donated to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center.

First stop was Bergdorf Goodman. Padma Lakshmi the host of Top Chef was hosting a cookoff and had designers Peter Som, Cynthia Rowley, Naeem Khan, Gilles Mendel and Lela Rose submit their favorite recipes and had the restaurant pass them out to partygoers to try. My favorite, and not because he’s my BFF was Peter Som’s panko fried oysters with blood orange gastrique and tartar sauce. The restaurant was packed like sardines, I could barely breathe!

Everywhere else in the store was just as jampacked. Bumped into 70’s supermodel Pat Cleveland and her gorgeous daughter Ana van Ravenstein while I was on my way out.

Next up was Henri Bendels. The store was a zoo with shoppers everywhere. It was cool to see some cute girls wearing Rafe bags! After hobnobbing with my buyers and some customers we made our way downtown to the Meatpacking district to Stella McCartney. Vogue editor Tonne Goodman and actress Kate Hudson were hosting the party.

Right outside the store they were making fresh pizzas and let me tell you…the mob descended on those pies like piranhas each time they entered the store so much so that the pies never made it past a few steps from the door.

The scene was hilarious. “Nothing comes between me and my pizza”, remarked one very hungry fashionista. On a marathon evening like tonight, we all need our sustenance! But Kate was either running very late or we were just restless.

On our way further downtown we passed by Bleecker Street to see what Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren were up to. Between the two of them, they have practically turned this once quiet street into an outdoor mall.

You can always count on Marc to do something fun. They were inviting customers to line up and get their photos taken in a special Marc Jacobs set simulating a fashion shoot. Passed by Ralph to get a glimpse of Nacho Figueras but he had already left.

Eventually we ended up on Crosby Street to go to Opening Ceremony but that was a madhouse. So we decided to turn back and head towards the Bowery to Patricia Fields. Ugh, same situation.

At this point, we were just hungry and exhausted. Thank God Five Points (one of my favorite restaurants) is in the neighborhood.

So did the 'tough' go shopping? For everybody's sake, I certainly hope so but it’s tough to say. I do know a lot of T shirts were sold!

Robert Geller: Modern Romantic

2009-10-13T15:10:00.041-04:00

Can I tell you about…Robert Geller. I met Robert last year through a common friend over lunch and I was instantly smitten. He’s laid back, thoughtful and genuine. He’s also a rising star in the menswear industry. Hailing from Hamburg, Germany, he moved to the USA to study at the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design. Upon graduating, he worked at Marc Jacobs, then became a partner and co-designer for the label Cloak and eventually launched his eponymous menswear label in 2007. He was recently named the winner of GQ magazine “Best New Menswear Designer in America” competition and was nominated for the CFDA Perry Ellis Menswear Designer of the year. Levis also collaborated with him on a capsule collection that just launched this September in Bloomingdales. Over al fresco lunch near his downtown Tribeca studio; we caught up and talked about everything under the sun…style related of course.

Rafe: The first time I saw your collection I was completely blown away. They were clothes I hadn’t seen before. Your designs are original, thoughtful, and provocative with unique details that a modern dandy can appreciate. What made you launch your own label?
Robert: Thank you! I started my own label because I felt that the clothes that I wanted to make had a client. I like to have a mix of toughness and sophistication that I don't think exists in the market. I think that this is essential when you launch a label. There is so much competition, it is easy to get lost in the crowd.

Rafe: What are 5 items you can’t live without and why?
Robert: My I Phone because it is my organizer and reminds me of my schedule. My old bicycle because it gets me around New York City and makes me feel like I live in a small town. A Margiela trench that I bought in Paris in 2000. It is just the right weight to take me from spring into summer. My wedding ring because it reminds me everyday how lucky I am to have found the partner of my dreams. My sketchbook that I have with me at all times, because it allows me to record my ideas whenever they may come.

Rafe: I think men are starting to dress up again and there’s a resurgence of haberdashery (neckties, bowties, hats) and tailoring in the market, even if it’s worn with high tops. What’s your take on this?
Robert: I think, especially in America, there has been this tradition of casual dressing that men are finally sick of. There is a real interest in men's clothing and some of the greatest accessories are ties and scarves and hats. Mixing this with a comfortable stylish look is not easy, but when it is done right, it can look really good.

Rafe: What does American style mean to you and how does your brand reflect it?
Robert: I think that American style embodies this sort of casual attitude that we are talking about. When done right it is a very sophisticated, comfortable style, but when it is bad, it can look sloppy. I like the aspect of comfort in clothing, while still looking fresh and pulled together.

Rafe: What do you think of the current trend of ‘pleated pants’ and slouchy proportions? Do you think they have any mileage or do you see it moving on and to what?
Robert: I think this slouchy oversized look is kind of cool and is a reaction to the super shrunken silhouette that has been popular in the past years. I think the future will be a mix. I don't think everyone will be wearing MC Hammer pants in the next five years, but playing with proportions is going to be very important.

Rafe: Music is often a key ingredient when designing a collection, what were you listening to when you designed your Fall Winter 09 collection, how did that influence you and by contrast, are you listening to something new now?
Robert: I always get more moody for the fall collection, I think that it is natural. I always listen to a lot of the Cure and Mazzy Star and I was listening to a bit of Gustav Mahler. Very poetic beautiful music. When Spring comes around I want energy. I fell in love with the Kooks last spring and still really like their Inside in/Inside out album. I also recommend the New Order playlist on Pandora.com. Lots of New Order, the Cure, the Smiths and Depeche Mode.
Rafe: As an accessory designer, I have to ask, what kind of bag do you carry every day?
Robert: When I carry one, which is not every day, I take the tote bag I made for my last spring show. We attached a hand-sewn leather flower to it. It is simple but it looks good.

Rafe: Every season, designers are pressured to come up with something new. How do you manage to stay true to your vision, evolve and still manage to surprise your audience?
Robert: It comes from my moods. I really just follow my instinct. There is no formula. I design what excites me and I think that my customer is similar to me and will also get excited by it.
Rafe: Being New Yorker, I always get asked for my inside scoop and favorite haunts. So I'm going to ask yours.
Weekend Brunch? Gigino at Wagner Park. Sit outside with the most beautiful view of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis island. It feels like you’re on a vacation.
Work Lunch? Le Pain Quotidien on West Broadway and Warren. This one is special and like my meeting room. The food is great and the atmosphere bright and very relaxed.
Dinner? Still Bacaro. This place opened a little more than a year ago and is hidden on Division street in the heart of Chinatown. I still have trouble finding it and I have been there over 40 times. Great atmosphere and great people on a weeknight.
Bar? I love the bar at Friedmanns, it is very beautiful and the atmosphere is great.
Weekend get-away? See Above...I don't get out much : -)
Art Gallery? Klaus von Nichtssagend. Super unpretentious whole in wall gallery in Brooklyn, but great taste and great art.
Museum? The Museum of Natural History. It is really magnificent.
Store? Odin. It has managed to really put together a great roster of designers. Every man that comes to New York should take a look.
Rafe: What are you absolute style faux pas? Please name 3 and why
Robert: I don't really have any. Things that look ridiculous on most people look great on some, it all depends on who can pull it off and who can't.

Rafe: Who is or who are your style icons?
Robert: The coolest guy in my opinion that has ever lived is Jean-Paul Belmondo.

Rafe: Since the title of my column is “Can I tell you”, what can you tell me that I should invest in this season?
Robert: I would say a nice pair of running shoes. If you are skinny, then everything looks good on... and off.

Robert’s collection is being sold at over 50 of the world’s most influential boutiques, including Isetan in Japan, Lane Crawford in Hong, Odin in New York and Fred Segal in Los Angeles.
To read more about Robert, check out his website: www.robertgeller-ny.com

Mid Summer Night

2009-09-07T14:39:00.041-04:00

Can I tell you…about David Straube and Jim Kloiber’s rooftop party. Every year since I’ve known David and Jim they throw a fabulous sunset cocktail party to celebrate the summer. It’s a much anticipated event and one I don’t like to miss.I went with my PIC(partner in crime), fashion designer Peter Som and we met up with Jim Larkin and Aidan Kemp.
Who can resist a rooftop party with spectucular views of the city from every vantage point. Their rooftop is perfect because it spans the entire length of the apartment building so it can fit a large crowd quite comfortably and they've renovated it so it feels like you're on the chic Above 60 Thompson rooftop bar lounge.They always manage to draw in a great mix of friends; editors, stylists, publicists, art directors, writers, designers,event planners and random cuties. You can be sure to run into several people you know which always makes for a good time.There wasn’t a required dress code but since the guest list are comprised of people who are sartorially inclined, within the first hour the “theme” was pretty obvious. We were mad for plaid! And by that I mean madras plaids or ginghams. From shorts to shirts, this pattern kept turning up as guest upon guest ascended up on the roof.At one point, Sam Spector asked Prabal Gurung, “Did I miss the memo?” Shai Tertner on the other hand loved the pattern mix. “I feel like I’m part of the ‘in’ crowd”, he teased.The second theme was the solid navy polo shirt…Ralph, Lacoste or Abercrombie. I mean, really are they any others worth wearing?
As the sun set and the drinks flowed, things got a little out of hand…quelle surprise! Chris Constable got hold of one guest’s ginormous black and white hat and before you knew it, people were trying it on and striking campy poses.Eventually Chris grabbed Tenten Wu’s stilleto and started vogueing.Then he got up on one of the deck chairs in effort to mimic Jennifer Beals…much to everybody’s amusement. And when David tried to offer him a hand to get down, Chris mistook it as an invitation to dance. At this point, everybody was in tears laughing so hard. I love Chris’ joie de vivre!As the evening wore on, some of us were getting a little peckish, so when Bruce Pask mentioned that he felt like getting a burger, we all got excited. It was all so spur of the moment but we dashed out and headed to the East Village. Bruce took us to Black Iron Burger; a tiny pub known for its selection of micro brews and its signature Black Iron Burger. The menu is straight to point: burgers, a couple of salads, sandwiches and fried green pickled tomatoes. Several beers later, burgers and fries consumed and appetites sated, we rolled out unto the street and called it a night.I love summer nights like this. A great party with friends, a last minute dinner, and lots of laughter. What’s not to love?! Soon enough, the season will be over and it will all seem like a mid summer night’s dream.

Thursday Socials

2009-08-19T11:02:00.025-04:00

Can I tell you…about Thursdays in the city. New York’s best social events are always held on Thursdays, always has been, always will be. I don’t know why but it is. So a few months ago, on a crisp Spring Thursday, my friends designer Peter Som, writer Rima Suqi and I decided we’d party hop.First stop was Shinique Smith’s opening at Yvon Lambert’s gallery in Chelsea. I met Shinique a few years ago through my girlfriend and museum curator Christine Y. Kim and we instantly hit it off. She’s funny, warm, thoughtful and a prolific artist. Her work has been steadily gaining momentum and was recently among the chosen few at the Rubell Family Collection show entitled “30 Americans” in their gallery in Miami.Shinique’s mixed media style referencing pop and urban street culture through collage and painting has made her a rising star in the Art World. This show was entitled,“Ten Times Myself". I was blown away by the show…her pieces were exuberant, powerful and energetic. Her work blurs the lines between sculpture and painting seamlessly.Art openings always draw in an eclectic crowd and it’s great for people watching. As we were heading out, we bumped into fashion editor Emil Wilbekin wearing his Rafe satchel. I love an unexpected Rafe sighting!Next up, we headed all the way downtown to Crosby Street, on the edge of Soho and Chinatown to the Super chic design store/gallery De Vera. On this insider street address, you’ll find Derek Lam, Jil Sander, Ted Muehling and Opening Ceremony. It’s a destination but it’s worth the trek. Federico de Vera is a good friend and an insanely talented jewelry designer, curator and collector of objets d’art.His store is like a mini museum of the most exotic artifacts from around the world and he has impeccable taste. His store is filled with exquisite examples of deities and Philippine saints, vintage Venetian glass, Japanese and Chinese lacquerware, and updated Georgian and Victorian jewelry.Federico's own jewelry designs are to die for. The guest list was an impressive mix of architects, artists, interior designers, editors and fashion designers.Can you imagine my excitement when Pierre Hardy walked in? If you don’t know who Pierre is, you should! Can I tell you…he’s major! On top of designing his own collection of shoes for men and women, he also designs Balenciaga’s women’s shoes and Hermes’ fine jewelry and women’s shoes. He’s a designer’s designer.I told him I had several of his shoes and he was so gracious about it. Listen, when somebody adores you like I do him, how can you not be thrilled?! When I meet people who are so effusive about their love for my designs, I’m always flattered and humbled at the same time.All those cocktails leave me hungry and it’s impossible to eat at these events…as much as I try to nibble. So Peter and I dashed to the Lobster Shack up the street for a proper meal while Rima stayed to mingle some more. That was a fun night. Note to self: Thursday Socials are always great!

Super Kawaii

2009-08-04T23:12:00.032-04:00

Can I tell you …about the Sakura Matsuri Festival. Every Spring season the Brooklyn Botanical Garden celebrates the Japanese tradition of Sakura Matsuri(cherry blossom festival). Hundreds of people congregate to join the festivities and see the flowers in full bloom from BBG’s 220 cherry trees. In a week or a week and half, the flowers will all fall.
In Japanese culture, the short lifespan and fragile nature of the cherry blossom makes it even more beautiful and precious. During Sakura Matsuri in Japan, throngs of people leave work early so they can picnic at the parks or whereever they can view these flowers. As early as 1912, cherry trees were planted in the USA as a gift from the People of Japan. In the last 30 years, the festival has become a much anticipated and celebrated tradition.In all my years of living in New York, I have never been to see the cherry blossoms at the gardens. Mom has been going for years and each time she invited me I had some excuse not to go. This year I decided to put an end to that.Visitors inspired by the theme and wore Japanese costumes emulating Geishas, Maikos and Ninjas. Manga obsessed kids were performing their favorite scenes in the gardens. Little girls got dressed as maikos and some teenagers indulged their Lolita fantasies dressing in super girly outfits in pink in homage to the blossoms. They all looked super kawaii!This is the 28th year of the Japanese festival, which features two days of taiko drumming, butoh performances, and samurai-sword demos among the blossoming trees. Other highlights include ikebana, manga, and origami workshops and demonstrations.The BBG itself is spectacular. Built in the late 1800s, it used to be an ash dump and was gradually developed into what it is today; the pride of Brooklyn representing the best in urban gardening and horticultural display. The Garden is made up of many exquisite and historic specialty gardens, including the Japanese-Hill-and-Pond-Garden, the Children's Garden, the Native Flora Garden, the Cranford Rose Garden, the Alice Recknagel Ireys Fragrance Garden, and the Steinhardt Conservatory. While walking the Japanese garden I had a sudden feeling of Dejavu, like I was in Kyoto for a split second.I'm inspired by everything I see and I'm glad I went. The flowers were just so pretty and pink, especially when the petals start falling like confetti all around you and blanket the ground like a carpet. You can see how the colors of nature make their way into my subconscious and eventually into my collection. Aren't these bags super kawaii!

Go West

2009-07-27T20:10:00.030-04:00

Can I tell you about…shopping in Los Angeles. I was recently in the city of Angels for a long weekend to catch up with friends and do a little trendspotting. Over the years, Angelinos have developed their own sense of style and have even launched certain brands into the spotlight as a result of being worn by celeb trendsetters. Hello, remember UGGs?! Now, you can actually say “that’s so LA” as a sartorial reference point.For day, the look is more relaxed, understated, casual and intentionally somewhat disheveled but with a rock and roll edge and a "because I can" attitude. For the red carpet, they go all out! The current obsession with celebs and what they wear has only added to the allure of the Hollywood lifestyle and aspiring to look like one lives it. Of course, it doesn't hurt to have a huge concentration of celebs, demi- celebs and stylists all living within driving distance from Chateau Marmont. As a result, LA has become an accidental style mecca.Now a trip to Lala land would not be complete without a celeb sighting. I went to check out an MTV award gifting suite that I was a part of. I usually don’t like going to these events but since I was in town, I thought a drive by was in order. As I was getting ready to leave, in comes Ugly Betty’s Eric Mabius with his wife Ivy Sherman. Since I can’t give him a handbag, she had no choice but to take one for him. And you can just imagine the look on her face when I handed her my printed snake clutch that complimented her dress! A happy wife makes a happy husband because he happily posed for the paparazzi avec moi.
Later that day, as I was perusing the jeans at the Diesel store on Melrose place, I literally bumped into American Idol runner up Adam Lambert. I normally would not approach a celeb for a photo op especially on their day off but what are the chances of ever seeing him again? He was totally sweet about getting his photo taken ( he’s obviously new at this) and even chatted with me a bit about the whole ‘not winning’ the title. He was refreshingly positive about the turn of events. He knows he’s made it now so everything else from here on will be a walk in the park.If you want to know what’s hip and happening in LA, then you have to make your way to Fred Segal Melrose. They have the whole look down pat from the sales associates to the way they merchandise the store. This time they were working the “Commando Surfer” look and I know it sounds disparate but you know what, it actually worked. That’s LA for you, it’s all about the mix.
Since I was in the neighborhood I headed over to see Philip Lim’s new boutique on Robertson. By New York standards, it’s a gorgeous, sprawling space of undulating walls covered in the kind of foam used in recording studios. Philip has a deft hand when it comes to color, cut and details. That's why he's become a fave amongst Hollywood A listers.Next up was Fred Segal Flair in Santa Monica. Owner and buyer Jeannine Braden has always been ‘au courant’. She just ‘gets it’. Jeannine developed her sharp eye and eclectic aesthetic while styling the Go-Gos back in the 80s and Rolling Stone covers. She loves color, print , humor and mixes designer with streetwear and vintage. She’s my kinda girl.On my must see list is Opening Ceremony, a NY downtown institution recently opened an outpost in West Hollywood in what used to be Charlie Chaplin’s dance studio. It’s a destination store but in LA, everything is a destination so it doesn’t matter. I loved their ‘mini-mall concept’ and it especially worked here where they had ‘shop in shops’ for Hello Kitty, Acne Jeans, Alexander Wang, Nom de Guerre, Schiesser Revival, their own Opening Ceremony label and their most recent collection in collaboration with Japanese mass retailer Uniqlo.
The last but not the least, is the Confederacy located in the artsy neighborhood of Los Feliz.
It's a deceptively large boutique with women’s clothing and accessories in the front and mens in the back separated by a litte outdoor veranda. Conveniently right beside it is a famous celeb watering hole, Cobras and Matadors. So after shopping, they head over for some tapas. Unfortunately the evening I was there, none such sightings occurred. I had just missed a huge party they threw for Matt Albiani’s book about Surfers. Apparently, it was a celeb packed party. C’est la vie. You win some, you lose some. Next!
So if you're feeling the need to go trendspotting, I suggest you go West.

I'm on a High

2009-07-15T17:40:00.030-04:00

Can I tell you…about the after party at the High Line. Following the CFDA Awards, me and my posse headed downtown to attend one of the hottest parties that was happening that evening. Friends of the High Line and Calvin Klein were hosting the event.Upon entry, we were greeted by the longest bar ever; bathed in purple light and flanked with model/ bartenders it was a sight for sore eyes. For once, there was no waiting for drinks much to everybody’s delight. You asked for it, you got it...subito!The space was packed with an incredible cross section of New York’s movers and shakers, fashionistas and celebrities. I met the iconic anti-model and artist Tony Ward,(yes, he dated Madonna briefly) who was surprisingly very friendly and totally into having his photo taken with me. Can I tell you...that totally made my night.Swarovski Award winners Alexander Wang and Justin Giunta joined Edward Norton, Tom Sachs, Diane von Furstenberg, Zoe Saldana, Debbie Harry, Lake Bell, Taylor Lautner,Bradley Cooper, Gerard Butler and Lisa Marie to inaugurate the space.Almost everybody from the CFDA Awards were here so it was a bit of dejavu but by this time of the evening, we were all getting ever so slightly intoxicated and having way too much fun.Photographers David Xavier Prutting and Neil Rasmus were mingling with the crowd and taking tons of photos. At this kind of an event, nobody is camera shy and these boys know everybody!Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Meredith Mellilng Burke, Jason Wu, Philip Lim, Richard Chai, Alejandro Ingelmo, Robert Geller, Erin Fetherston, Francisco Costa and Italo Zucchelli were all sipping cocktails and strolling through the park. It was such a magical evening, I was on a high!At one point in the evening we were getting hungry again and my friend, Peter Som even offered to whip something up from his apartment since he lives nearby. I think that was the vodka talking but if you didn't know already, Peter not only cooks a great meal but he can bake a mean pie!This was my second party at the High Line hosted by Calvin Klein and it was just as fabulous. It was also a fundraiser and open to the pubic. Proceeds from the ticket sales will go towards supporting the maintenance and operations of the park.
I can't wait to see the park during the day. I've heard it's absolutley gorgeous! That's next on my list after I get back from Hong Kong. I had a flight to catch the next day. Stay tuned!

Starry Starry Night

2009-06-29T10:31:00.003-04:00

Can I tell you …about the CFDA Awards. It’s the most anticipated event in the fashion industry. It’s always a great party and I love seeing what and who everybody is wearing. The star gazing isn’t bad either since Hollywood celebrities like to show their support to the designers who dress them for their share of red carpet events. This year my date was my friend, the fabulous designer Tracy Reese. She wore my crystal beaded Sasha minaudiere with her floral printed dress with a full skirt and lots of crinoline. She looked like the Belle of the Ball.
Diane von Furstenburg (president of the CFDA) and Steven Kolb (executive director) had promised us a fun and hopefully short evening from years past. First was the change in venue and just in time for the opening of the newly renovated Alice Tully Hall at the Lincoln Center.
At the entrance we were greeted by a row of cute boys all armed with umbrellas. It was raining all afternoon and they weren’t taking any chances with the red carpet. There is nothing worse than soggy fashionista.
Then there was the tableau-vivant of 60 models on the steps of the amphitheatre, all dressed in looks from the Womenswear Designer of the Year nominees: Rodarte, Marc Jacobs and Narciso Rodriguez. It was live fashion and a reminder that you are attending a major fashion event.
Inside was when the real fun began. I was so excited to see actress Mamie Gummer ( Meryl Streep’s daughter) wearing my gold python minaudiere and Peter Som’s dress. Big shout out to Peter for making that happen. Ran into Roopal Patel in an emerald green dress and hot pink accessories. That girl knows how to wear color and she stood apart from the sea of black dresses. Rachel Roy looked like a goddess in a Venus shoulder white brocade dress of her design. Spotted Behnaz Sarapfour and actress Michelle Trachtenberg sipping champagne in a corner. My friend menswear designer and nominee Robert Geller and his gorgeous wife Ana Elaria were enjoying the moment. It was their first time at the Awards. Tracy caught up with her old friend Marc Jacobs for a bit while I mingled. They used to be classmates in Parsons.
Tracey Ullman was the host of the evening wearing vintage Claire McCardell which won her a round of applause. She kept the mood light and tried her best to make everybody laugh. Can I tell you, in this economy we all need a good laugh. Sometimes she succeeded and sometimes there was a deathly silence in the auditorium. Jaded fashion people are the hardest to please I swear. Other presenters were Justin Timberlake who is looking better with age, Blake Lively looked hot in hot pink and Diane Kruger in Jason Wu.
So here are the winners: Fashion Icon: Michelle Obama (obvi!), Lifetime Achievement : Anna Sui (hello!) Marc Jacobs: International Award (of course!), Proenza Schouler: Accessories (huh?), Kate and Laura Mulleavy: womenswear (love!), a tie between Calvin Klein’s Italo Zucchelli and Band of Outsider’s Scott Sternberg for menswear (surprise!), Ralph Lauren: Most Popular Vote (duh!), Justin Guinta, Tim Hamilton and Alexander Wang.
After the awards was the buffet dinner, more drinks and hobknobbing. I’m so glad I took my camera. This party was one big photo op and everybody is happy to strike a pose. What’s the point of dressing up otherwise, right? But this wasn’t end of the evening. The night was young and so were we!Everybody was headed to the After Parties. Peter, Roopal, Elana and I weren't going to miss the Highline Party hosted by Calvin Klein. Their parties are always so much fun! I’ll tell you all about it but that's another blog. Stay tuned.

Get Real

2009-06-15T08:48:00.006-04:00

Can I tell you about... Under the Arch. When I met Sean Patrick Murray last year at a party in the Hamptons, he told me about this exciting new project that he had been working on with his friends from NYU. A reality based show entitled "Under the Arch", about the ups and downs of 7 NYU students living and partying in Manhattan. "They are all my friends that I have met in New York. Our newest cast member Briana is a girl who I met on the 6 train, and we've been friends since." Sean said of the cast. In case you’re wondering, the title references the iconic landmark in Washington Square Park that is the epicenter of New York University. "About two years ago I was watching Laguna Beach with some friends and was tired of watching the same shows, and kept claiming "I could do this. Our lives are so much more interesting." They told me to stop complaining and actually do it, so I hired a crew, rented equipment, and got a bunch of my friends together to make a 7 minute demo pilot. The pilot lived on my facebook and youtube account, and suddenly got all this buzz by GAWKER.COM and NEW YORK POST: Page 6. Michael Flutie and Madwood media read the articles, and contacted me via my YouTube account. I came into the office the next day, and since then its been history," Sean added.
With the help of producer and talent rep Michael Flutie, Sean has managed to bypass the networks altogether by having the webisodes only available to select audiences by invitation. Sean said that they wanted to create something new, interactive, and exciting. He felt that less and less people were watching TV and were spending more time on their computers so he, Michael and the Madwood team spent over a year developing the show and exploring this new terrain.At their launch party at Bungalow 8 hosted by downtown party doyenne Amy Sacco, Michael was giving out UTA credit cards with passwords so we could all watch the show the next day. He said he was sending out a total of 3000 of these cards to “tastemakers” to generate some buzz for the show. Everbody came to show their support including photographer David Xavier Prutting and his gorgeous fiancee Chau Ngo. David took photos all night long, he never stops working.So how real is this show? Sean added, "Anything that is produced has to have been touched for an audience. I don't want to lie like shows like the HILLS or LAGUNA and say it's all "reality"...because you can't kid an auidence. They will see right through it, and be pissed off. But if we are honest from the start, hopefully we will gain respect and allow the audience to be engaged and entertained. The idea of this show isn't to be a documentary, but to tell a story.The episodes are all emotions, feelings, situations, and events that have happened to us. It's like we are playing ourselves. We have taken journal entries, experiences, etc, and come up with a "piece". Just like how "A Chorus Line" was created. When filming, we will discuss what's current, what is relevant, but also what our schedules are like that next week. So if we can combine live occurrences with a scene, all the better."
The cast were styled by downtown retail diva Jeffrey Kalinsky, with hopes of attracting a younger customer base through this new medium of entertainment. Ingenue Ariana Madix wore my Martina black patent clutch for the party and I must say she looked AMAZING! Even her costar Briana Cornelius was lusting over the clutch. Big shout out to my friend Sean for making it happen!
Michael Flutie, who’s most recent success was “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy”, plans to shoot 12-16 more webisodes in the next season. Eventually he’s hoping that certain brands will want to partner up for appropriate product placements and other cross-marketing opportunities. To date, only Joey and Sean have graduated. Briana and Sarah are still at NYU and they are continuing to film the process of the characters post-graduation, but are also casting new NYU students in the Fall.
So the next time you happen to be walking under the arch, make sure you look hot and fabulous! Hey, you never know. You could be in next season's webisode. Get ready to get real!

Rafe Loves...You!

2009-06-07T22:47:00.010-04:00

Can I tell you...about my new blog called, Rafe Loves. Over the years of designing accessories I've been very fortunate to meet some truly stylish individuals, some are friends and some are acquaintances. On my website and on the Rafe Facebook company page, I have hundreds of photos of people both of greater and lesser fame wearing Rafe accessories. As a designer, nothing is more satisfying than seeing your designs worn by your customers. I love seeing my accessories incorporated into their personal style and the varieties are endless.When I started my blog several years ago I started including photos of them in my blogs. Inevitably I would get inquiries about who they were, what they did, where they shopped and dined,etc. People wanted to know more about them. So I decided to create a blog to celebrate these fabulous individuals, their style choices and let them tell their own story.
So the next time you happen to be wearing your favorite Rafe accessory, take a picture and send it over. Not only would I love to see it but I'd love you...to tell me...about you!

Lifeguards and Lemonade

2009-05-27T16:36:00.034-04:00

Can I tell you about... Matt Albiani's book Lifeguard on Duty. On a recent humid May evening, dapper dudes and PYT’s gathered at Bergdorf Goodman Men’s Store for Matt’s book launch and drink to the start of summer. The party was hosted by mens designer Michael Bastian whose Spring 09 collection coincidentally was also inspired by lifeguards.
All of Michael’s friends and colleagues showed up to enjoy the mini hamburgers and vodka lemonade being passed around as well as peruse Michael’s collection and Matt’s prints from the book which were on display.Roopal Patel, Bergdorf’s fashion director was the epitome of bohemian chic in Thakoon's long floral print dress and Bastian’s publicist, Eugenia Gonzalez Ruiz-Olloqui wore a hand-made Mexican cotton mini caftan, exposing her mile long legs! Rugby designer and fellow blogger Antonio Ciongoli also scored sartorial points by wearing his father’s vintage briefcase.Amidst the craziness, the film crew from the reality TV show “The City” was also filming one of their episodes at the party. Whitney Port, one of the stars of the show was busy trying to look as ‘candid’ as possible while sipping her drink and casually chatting with her friends.I asked Michael about his Spring collection and what inspired him to reference lifeguards in particular. “We intentionally set out to capture the whole spirit of Lifeguards and what they represent. I can't speak for the rest of the world, but if you grew up in America, lifeguards always embodied the perfect easy summer lifestyle. There is also a movie we referred to a lot from the '70s called 'The Lifeguard' with Parker Stevenson and Sam Elliott. You realize pretty quickly men's swim shorts weren't always these big baggy disasters that look like you're trying to hide something. “
I’ve included some images from Michael’s Spring 09 collection to illustrate his point.He added,“It was a pure coincidence that Matt Albiani was coming out with his Lifeguard book at the same time as our Lifeguard collection. Back in July last year, I was telling a friend in the business about the collection, and he said 'Wow, that's such a coincidence-- I just got an e-mail regarding a photo book that's coming out next year on Lifeguards-- they must be in the air.' We then tracked Matt down and asked him if he'd like to possibly team up for a couple events in the spring and he said sure. I always think events like this work better and are more interesting when you combine a couple different but related ideas, such as a new book and a fashion collection.”It seemed like more people were coming than going because it was getting pretty hot despite the cool drinks. I ran into designer Prabal Gurung and stylist Sam Spector. Prabal had just come back from India and Nepal,totally inspired. Ummm, how could you not?!

As the crowd swelled and the heat rose, me and my friend photographer Tetsu Kubota decided to skip out. I bought the book, had Matt sign it and we headed downtown for another party. But that’s another story!

Westside Story

2009-05-12T10:21:00.020-04:00

Can I tell you...about the parks on the Westside Highway. Every weekend during Spring and Summer, hundreds of New Yorkers flock to any patch of green they can find to get a bit of sun, read, take a nap or picnic with friends. Personally, I love Central Park but it gets too crowded and a bit of a trek so the next best location is the Hudson River Park (Pier 45 & 46) on the West Side Highway.The piers get packed too but the "view" is well worth it. For one, it's near Chelsea and the West Village so you can already assume there will be some good eye candy. I don't have to explain why that is, do I?My friend Ward Kelvin, a seriously talented jewelry designer and Sartorialist regular invited me to have a picnic on a warm April Sunday. He conveniently lives a hop and a skip away from Pier 45. We positioned ourselves in front of the Richard Meier buildings and close to the Pier. This way we could watch the promenade on the boardwalk. Location is everything!People watching is one of my favorite things to do wherever I am. Street style is especially individualistic and ecclectic in New York City. Hello!
Another friend, fashion stylist Ron Laxamana, dropped by and hung out with us for a bit. We played Fashion Police and scored the Fashion Do's and Don'ts we saw on parade.
Time flies when you're a watching a fashion show, especially a good one.
I could have stayed there until sunset but Ward had other plans. He wanted to go sit in Abingdon Square Park in Greenwich Village. This is one of the most picturesque squares in the city ( Gramercy is my favorite but not open to the public) and one of the oldest. People were wandering in to sit on the benches or take pictures of the colorful tulips that were in full bloom.It was one of the quintessential New York moments and I count my lucky stars that I live in this amazing city!

Treasure Hunt

2009-04-27T23:13:00.043-04:00

Can I tell you...about my obsession for vintage fashion. As it goes, "Someone's trash is someone's treasure" and I've been collecting vintage "treasures" for the past 10 years! My appetite for acquisition remains insatiable. Fortunately for me, two times a year vintage sellers from all over the US come together for the Manhattan Vintage Show. The exhibition lasts only two days, usually beginning on Friday and ending on Saturday. On the first day, designers, stylists, die hard fashionistas and random drag queens show up to get first dibs. The second day is open to the general public. It's first come first serve so the earlier the better. Teams from big firms go in groups so they can divide and conquer. This 'treasure hunt' is a vintage addict's dream!There are aisles and aisles of vintage fabulosity and the varieties are endless. There are sellers who only sell mens fashion, some who only deal in prints and remnant fabrics and others who sell only accessories. Some sellers specialize in designer vintage because they usually fetch higher prices and others have random pieces they've bought at yard sales or flea markets.
In terms of handbags and shoes, I'm adverse to designer vintage because they are so recognizable and usually cost more than I want to pay. I like the more obscure or never heard of labels. They are usually more interesting and full of surprising details. Although, every now and then I can't resist and will end up buying Charles Jourdan, Maud Frizon, Walter Steiger or Stuart Weitzman. Their shoes from the Eighties rocked!There are some amazing costume jewelry in the show but their prices have gone through the roof recently, especially the casted pieces that are in relatively 'wear now' condition.At the entrance there was a vendor who was selling Louis Vuitton trunks and luggage as well as other objects covered in the monogram fabric. I loved the LV covered toilet seat cover. I thought that was kitschy and hilarious.Over the years I've ammassed such a large inventory I've had to label them and index them so I can access them easily when I'm working on the next season. Vintage fashion is a huge source of inspiration for me and other designers as you may already know.
This particular show didn't yield as many 'treasures', which is just as well given the times. I should just shop my own vintage closet.
Discouraged, Steffanie and I went to City Bakery for a coffee break before heading back to the office. Right as we're about to finish, in walks this cute blonde girl wearing a Rafe bag. She circles the counter then walks out of the cafe. As she approaches the door we recognize her. It was actress Julia Stiles!
Steffanie urged me to run out and get a snapshot. Thank God for my Iphone. She was surprisingly accommodating and really sweet. Once she realized I was who I am, she relaxed and posed for me. She loves the bag and still wears it after all these years. Now that was a New York moment!

American Dream

2009-04-25T21:44:00.044-04:00

Can I tell you ...about my ad for American Express OPEN®. A few months ago I was selected by American Express as one of three entrepreneurs that had won their "My Rewards Story" contest. The winners would be featured in an ad campaign for using the American Express OPEN® Card. It all started when I received a letter asking me to fill out a questionnaire about how I use the card. Then I got a phone call to schedule a telephone interview which was a more in depth Q&A about my business, how I use the card and what I use my rewards points for, etc. Finally, a couple of weeks later I got "the" phone call to tell me that American Express had selected me and two other business owners to be featured in an ad. As you can imagine, I was beyond thrilled!The advertisement would be in the May issue of Fortune Small Business magazine. At a time when the economy is in a depression and every small business is struggling, this could not have been better timed and appropriate. Perhaps serve as an inspiration to other entrepreneurs out there.
A few days later, art photographer Mackenzie Stroh came over to scout my studio and showroom. She thought my space was photogenic and full of possibilities. I loved hearing that and I was excited to be photographed by such a talented and well respected artist.American Express sent a crew of 20 people to my studio! Super stylist Lulu Chen, Mackenzie and her crew, Set designer Robert Sumrell and makeup wizard Bryan Lynde, plus the advertising executives from Winkreative who had flown in from London. Flowers (birds of paradise) were sent over, breakfast and lunch from Le Pain Quotidien. Lulu brought an entire wardrobe (Dries van Noten and Paul Smith) for me to choose from (even if I ended up using my own for the ad shot).
We spent the whole day here shooting different vignettes. Some were solos of me posing in the showroom and in my office.The other scenes involved my girls Esi, Steffanie and my sister Tesa, in a "pretend design meeting". Of course they all had to get their hair blown out and their faces made up. Can I tell you...it was all very glamorous but smiling all day can be exhausting! But I would do it again in a heartbeat. Anybody who wants to help me promote my brand is heaven sent as far as I'm concerned. Thank you American Express for supporting my American Dream!

Yeah, Kooza

2009-04-18T22:06:00.035-04:00

Can I tell you...about the new Cirque du Soleil show entitled Kooza. Ever since David took me to my first Cirque show back in 1993, I've been a fan. We've seen most of their shows here in New York and in Las Vegas. What I love about their shows is that it's not only for kids but also for adults. Their themes, choreography, costumes, music, special effects and the variety of acts make their shows unforgettable and like nothing I've ever seen.
Kooza was inspired from the Sanskrit word "koza", meaning box, chest or treasure. This is Cirque's 20th production and with this show they went back to their classic circus roots.
The focus is and always has been about the performers and their talents, whether they are clowning around, walking on a tight rope, contorting their bodies or flying on a trapeze.There was a hint of the exotic East with the music and reminded me of the soundtrack of "Slumdog Millionaire", which I love. There are 175 costumes, 160 hats, 125 artists and employees, representing 17 different nationalities. Imagine that?! They're like the UN of circuses!The show was spectacular and undeniably had the Cirque sensibility. The clowns were funny and up to their usual antics picking people from the audience. I think this formula works every time no matter what show you see. Its fun seeing somebody else being embarrassed as long as it's not me. Some standouts for me were the Spineless Sisters ( that's what I'm calling them). They bent, twisted, intertwined and spiraled their bodies into the most impossible combinations and poses that it was almost uncomfortable to watch. The woman beside was cringing in her seat. They made it all look so easy, smiling as they performed.They also had Jenga Joe (again my made up nickname). One by one, he piled one chair on top of the other creating a 23 foot tower, with each addtion balancing with one hand as he lifted his entire body up in the air with such percision and grace it was mesmerizing. I'd like to add that he had zero body fat and a six pack to die for!At one point in the show, they had a group of guys on a tight rope, hopping, skipping, biking (yes, biking!) and somersaulting only to land back on the rope but one guy slipped. He lost his headress but managed to grab the rope and get back up. Everybody gasped and held their breath as he gathered his wits and continued to perform. Can I tell you...that made the show even more incredible and real. That slip made me realize how precarious these acts are and that someone can get hurt. Often times you see these shows and everything is done to perfection that you forget these performers are people and that accidents can happen.I highly recommend the show and I don't want to spoil the fun by telling you too much. Taking the water taxi from 35th Street to Randall's Island Park is also part of the fun. It's like going off to an adventure to a strange land to see these fantastic creatures visting from out of this world. Be prepared to be blown away because its yeah...Kooza!

Fall in line

2009-04-05T23:27:00.042-04:00

Can I tell you...about Topshop in New York. There was so much hype and drama about their opening this past year that when they finally opened I couldn't wait to check out the store. As I assume you already know, Topshop is THE hippest and most successful high street retailer in London. In fact, the last time I was in London, there was a crowd outside the store before they opened their doors and once I got inside it was absolute chaos. There was a feeding frenzy as shoppers filled every corner of the store. Getting a dressing room was a nightmare and paying for your purchase was even worse.In 2006, they took their cool quotient up a notch by collaborating with fashion icon Kate Moss to design an exclusive collection for them. Also this month, they're introducing a line by Barbara Hulanicki of Biba Fame.What were we thinking? Apparently, thousands of New Yorkers had the same idea. Fashionistas came out in full force and patiently waited in line for hours before the store opened. Kate Moss was on hand for the ribbon cutting and I was hoping to take a snapshot of her. Well, after seeing the line that circled all around the block, I had to go to plan B. There was no way I was going to wait in line. There's nothing I hate more.Undaunted, we walked around Soho, had lunch at my favorite Malaysian restaurant NyoNya and came back. Ugh, the lines were just as long and showed no signs of thinning. All that unrequited shopping got us hungry for something sweet and something we didn't have to line up for.So we trekked over to the Meatpacking district to Pastis for a little 'merienda'. I love desserts and Pastis makes a mean 'crepe Suzette'. It was so delish and certainly satiated our appetites.
Steffanie wore her new Rafe bag in red pearlized patent satchel. As we walked in she got several envious stares from other girls. This is a daily occurrence when you own a Rafe bag, I swear!We may not have gotten into Topshop but we had a great dessert! Isn't that sort of the same thing? Besides, in a week I'll be able to breeze into the store. This New Yorker does not fall in line, not if he can help it!

Wet and Wild

2009-03-30T18:39:00.033-04:00

Can I tell you about...the Pacha Ibiza Pool Party. While I was in Miami for a weekend recently, I found out that the Winter Music Conference was also happening. I should have suspected something because when I boarded my flight I was with all these trendsters.I was too late to buy tickets for any of the events but fortunately, my friend Bill Blagg had purchased a few tickets to the Pacha Party at the Shelborne Hotel. If you enjoy dance music and like to go clubbing, then you know of Pacha. It is the one and only club to go to in Ibiza. I've never been so I was excited to go to their inaugural party in Miami.
The Pacha Pool Party was scheduled to start at eleven in the morning and continue until eleven at night, followed by an exclusive party in nightclub Shine.
Confirmed guest DJ’s include Sander Kleinenberg, David Morales, Frankie Knuckles, Jazzy Jeff and Axwell spinning alongside Pacha residents such as Sarah Main, Juan Diaz and a special live performance by Goldfish.We didn't get there until well after four in the afternoon. I mean really, who starts dancing earlier than that? My jaw dropped as I walked in. The pool was packed. It was like a scene from 'Girls Gone Wild'. I personally wouldn't know but if there was anything close to it, this would be the party. Let me add that this was also during Spring break.
Topless boys flaunting their six packs and tattoos. Girls in their shortest of shorts or skimpiest bikinis with the highest of heels. I swear, it was like watching a tennis match, my eyes kept going back and forth. Between all the eye candy and the cocktails, I was getting a little light headed. It was all very wet and wild!
The music was off the hook! I only stayed for two DJ sets; Sander Kleinenberg and Jazzy Jeff. Can I tell you...it was INCREDIBLE! I couldn't stop dancing! It was such a euphoric experience. If this party was on the roof, the roof would have caved in with all the jumping and thumping. I wish I had stayed a little longer but I had to rush out to see a fashion show. Coincidentally, it was also Miami Fashion Week so I was trying to do and see as much as I could. If I go back to Miami next year, I'm staying for the whole party!

Design in the hood

2009-03-28T14:46:00.051-04:00

Can I tell you...about Miami's Design District. Art galleries are always on the cutting edge. They find fringe neighborhoods to move into then turn them into hip meccas. Little by little, restaurants, stores and showrooms start popping up in the vicinity. That's what happened to Soho in the early 80s and then more recently in Chelsea in New York. Now Miami has one to call their own.The neighborhood is home to nearly 130 art galleries, showrooms, boutiques, restaurants and bars. It has becoming quite the destination for all things style and design related.I was recently in Miami for an extended weekend so I thought I would scope out the neighborhood. I had already tried some of the restaurants the last time I was here but never got a chance to walk around. While it has a ways to go before it turns into Chelsea, there were some pleasant surprises. I had brunch at Brosia, which has a great outdoor space. They have a huge tiled wall with a leaf design which I loved. You know me and prints.Around the corner is Y3, Tomas Maier and Marni. It's Tomas' only store in the world. It is a beautiful space and curated with a very discerning eye. Tomas himself helped me choose some scarves for myself. Imagine that!
Over at Marni I perused their Limited Edition collection that is only available at Marni stores worldwide. Did I tell you...how much I love Marni prints?Next up was the Rubell Family Collection. I was excited to see their current show entitled "30 Americans" that opened at the last Art Basel show in Miami. I was lucky that they still had it up. I knew some of the artists and I was pleased to see their work included in the show.The Rubells have been collecting African-American Art since the 1960s and they only show art that they own. This is their private collection and it is an impressive one. They exhibited over 200 works of art; sculpture, installations, photography, painting and mixed media. The show is a must see if you happen to be in the neighborhood.One thing to keep in mind is that the galleries are not exactly walking distance from each other or from the cluster of restaurants and stores, unlike Chelsea. You know what I'm saying? So even if design is in the hood, this is one hood you don't want to be caught wandering about. Don't say I didn't warn you.

It's my Party

2009-03-22T14:27:00.045-04:00

Can I tell you...about my Birthday Party. Every year as the date of my birthday approaches, I get a little conflicted. Should I or shouldn't I throw a party? This year in particular I was extra hesitant. The recession being in full swing didn't help my mood. Its hard to feel festive when the economy is in a slump and tales of sorrow are like the daily news.I discussed my reservations with a few of my closest friends and we came to the conclusion that a little soiree' was exactly what we all needed. I felt it was auspicious that my birthday fell on a Saturday. Coming together for drinks, some merriment and great company, who could refuse such an invitation. Fortunately my showroom is big enough to hold a large crowd. It was meant to be.

We came up with a theme: Speakeasy Chinoiserie. I was thinking of Shanghai at its' heyday, right before the fall. Coincidentally, I'm reading about The Rise and Fall of Shanghai.
David went into party mode and organized everything and I mean EVERYTHING! He even bought a disco ball off Ebay, because no party is complete without a disco ball. I ran to Pearl River to get a bunch of multi-colored hanging paper lanterns to complete the Chinois effect. We rearranged the showroom so we would have several areas for lounging and groups could gather together.

I got Todd Trofimuk, everybody's ( and I mean EVERYBODY!) favorite model/mixologist. He mixes for all the best parties in town.I snagged Roger Williams to DJ. I met him last year at the Cooper-Hewitt Design Awards after party and loved his tracks. A little bit of Motown, some 80s and 90s Pop, progressive and deep house gets everybody swinging and swaying.I invited a lot of people; family, old friends and new. Some were friends I knew in the Philippines, others were the first people I met in New York and some I met a few days earlier. The more the merrier I say! I told friends to bring friends and also to bring their drink of choice just in case we ran out. There was a huge turnout as my friends predicted.The cake was custom baked by Sugar Sweet Sunshine and it was delish! Mark Chang designed the cake and can I tell you...we all loved it! A great time was had by all. I wish more friends could have been there but there's always next year. Maybe I'll have a subdued brunch...but then again, maybe NOT! What do you think?

Spring Fling

2009-03-10T19:18:00.062-04:00

Can I tell you about...my Spring fling. Every season for the past several years I've been shooting my campaigns in New York with the very talented Micaela Rossato. However, last year when I was headed to Manila to be the finale judge of Project Runway Philippines, it became a scheduling nightmare to still do the shoot in New York. So I decided to take a risk and do everything in Manila since I was already going to be there. Why not hit two birds with one stone.

I asked my friends, the dynamic husband and wife team Neil and Claudine Lucente to visualize the campaign for me. Claudine and I go way back when we used to be roommates in New York. In fact she shot many of my earlier campaigns. I love her sensibility, her editorial eye and attention to detail. Together, she and Neil have amassed an amazing body of work and I've always wanted to work with her again.

We came up with the concept of shooting everything around or inside a fabulous vintage car. The story line would revolve around a girl either waiting for, about to see or just having been with her lover. I wanted to convey a feeling of anticipation or afterglow a woman gets when she is in love. Love is something I want to be associated with because after all, I want everyone to LOVE Rafe.

I asked my girlfriend, Teresa Herrera to model for me. Not only is she a gorgeous woman, a famous TV host, she's also a professional model and an accomplished actress. I wanted to someone who can speak with her eyes, not just move her body and pose for the camera. I thought Teresa would be perfect.

My friend, Marie Claire editor in chief Myrza Sison suggested Preview fashion editor and super stylist Liz Uy and through Liz, we snagged make up wiz Denise Go Ochoa. I was all set with my team, now I just need the perfect car.

Through my girlfriend Celine Lopez, who called furniture designer and vintage car collector Kenneth Cobonpue, who then called his buddy and fellow vintage car collector Jorge See, I found the perfect car! A vintage 1953 XK-120 Jaguar Roadster convertible in Old English White with red leather interiors! It is one sexy machine and exactly what I envisioned for the shoot.

We decided to shoot in a studio because going on location with such a delicate vintage was going to pose some risks I wasn't willing to take. It was just as well because it rained that day.

One of my favorite moments during the shoot was lunch. We had Bacolod style chicken inasal courtesty of Joel Torre. Omg, I was estatic. You'd have to taste it to know why I digress. Getting that chicken and garlic fried rice combination is no easy feat and I've tried several versions in Manila and they just don't quite live up to it. Only another Ilonggo can taste the difference.

As you can see from the results, the campaign was a success. Liz pulled out all the stops and even had extra clothes made in a matter of days just for the shoot. She kept fussing and fixing until Claudine was ready to shoot.

It was long day but it was worth it because as you can see from the results, it was a smashing success. Teresa looks gorgeous, sexy, confident and in love. The product looks fresh and covetable. What more can I ask for?
I'm so happy I did this shoot in Manila and I'm so proud of my team. It was a fling worth doing. They did an awesome job, don't you agree? Now go ahead and have your own Spring fling...with Rafe!

Up Close and Personal

2009-03-07T18:20:00.053-05:00

Can I tell you about...New York Fashion Week. It's that time of the year again and this season I was really looking forward to seeing what designers would be doing in light of the global crisis. The show must go on after all. There will always be big shows for more established brands with deep pockets. However, for smaller brands this is a very challenging time. How to stand out and be noticed during one the busiest times in the fashion industry. Not everybody can afford to be showing at the tents. Fortunately New York is filled with unique spaces to do more intimate presentations. Art galleries, photo studios, empty warehouses, and iconic landmark locations. There's something for everybody.My friend Monique L'huillier showed at the Plaza's Oak Room for the first time breaking away from her usual runway format at Bryant Park. She said between the economy and the upcoming Oscars, it seemed like a good idea to keep it short and sweet. She was scheduled to fly out the next day to do fittings for some major Hollywood A-listers. A handful of models posing about, overflowing champagne, some hors'doeuvres and in a few minutes it was all over.The beaded and tulle dresses were really special and signature Monique but I loved the jersey pieces. They looked modern and fresh, especially styled with snagged sheer body stockings and layers of necklaces by Fenton, it gave Monique's pretty aesthetic an edgier slant.Prabal Gurung's debut collection was held at the Flag Art foundation in Chelsea. It was bold, graphic and luxurious. Focusing on an edited palette of black, white and red. These were great cocktail shakers and red carpet worthy numbers. The show was perfectly cast by James Scully and styled impeccably by Tina Laakkonen.Prabal paid his dues working for Bill Blass for the past 5 years and his taste for finer things are definitely obvious in his designs. Double faced cashmere, hand-sewn feathers and intricate beading were all elements that made up his luxe capsule collection. The next day, he landed on the cover of WWD! Prabal is off to a great start.Sophie Buhai and Lisa Mayock, the designers behind the label Vena Cava, also held their presentation at the Eyebeam gallery in Chelsea. Their artful leanings took them to a slightly punkish and sparkly place. Lisa Mayock was inspired by a neighbor who used to be a 'gem huntress' in the eighties.
They collaborated with the artist Marisa Tesauro, who shredded and scattered over 30,000 CDs inside the triangular stage for the show. The collection showed elements of exposed zippers, nailhead studs, some holographic sequins and metallic fringe.
Chris Benz showed in a raw warehouse space in Chelsea that once stored road salt. For this collection, he dipped his girls in color, head to foot! He favored a bold and strong palette: Yves Klein blue, bright lemon yellow, and fire-engine red, in every imaginable fabrication from silk charmeuse, melton wools and fur. My friend Alex Sanchez of Lancome gave the girls "Underground Glam-glossy Granite" smokey eyes using Lancome's Piha gloss and a muted lip.I love a big full blown runway show, don't get me wrong. What I did like about these smaller presentations was that it allowed me to mingle with friends I haven't seen in a while. Getting a chance to slow down, sip a cocktail or two and socialize is such a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle at the tents. More importantly, it also gives everybody the opportunity to scrutinize the details and really get up close and personal.

Barbie's Birthday Bash

2009-03-02T11:18:00.027-05:00

Can I tell you…about Barbie’s Birthday Party. Barbie turned 50 this year and to celebrate this historic event, Mattel launched a huge extravaganza during New York fashion week. Months of preparation went into this as you can imagine. Barbie was determined to make this day unforgettable. As we entered the tents and made our way to line up for the show you see Barbie spelled out in huge lifesize block letters surrounding the fountain, each letter containing a gazillion Barbie dolls. The mayhem pre-show was ridiculous.
My team didn't get in even if they were on the list, as well as some people who actually worked for Mattel and flew into New York just for the show. Whoever did front of house, that was a major fiasco. Guests were invited to bring their favorite Barbies ( nieces or daughters ) to the show and I suspect this added to the pandemonium.The show itself was totally over the top and appropriately so! I was almost sure it was the finale episode of Rupaul’s Drag Race. It was so Dragilicious and I mean that as a compliment! The fabulous Patti Wilson styled the show, dividing it into themes: Past, Present and Future Barbie with matching video animation on the big screen. Fifty designers lent their clothes that best represented Barbie’s fashion forward point of view. Diane von Furstenburg, Peter Som, Anna Sui, Alexander Wang, Bryan Reyes, Trina Turk, Tracy Reese, Bob Mackie, Jeremy Scott and Betsey Johnson all joined in for the hoopla. Christian Louboutin was commissioned to do all the hot pink patent stilletos. I loaned a bag for the show and I was happy to see it with a Twinkle by Wenlan knit dress. All the seated guests were given a limited edition Barbie made just for this very special occasion as well as a big magazine with photos of the participating designers and their Barbie 'guotes'. I heard murmurs of selling them on E-bay from the crowd. After all, we are in a recession and these dolls could fetch mucho dinero for collectors!At the end of the show, all the models walked out, each holding a little girl which made everybody in the audience go...."Awww!". Then the lights turned pink and it started raining pink hearts! Super kawaii!!! You should have seen the look on all the little girls in the audience. They were in heaven, Barbie heaven! This was one birthday party I was very happy to attend. You see, Barbie and I go way back....but that's another story. LOL!

Where the Boys are

2009-02-27T20:21:00.029-05:00

Can I tell you...about the GQ party. At the beginning of New York Fashion Week this year, GQ held its second annual Best New Menswear Designer in America contest in conjunction with the CFDA. The six finalists were Yigal Azrouel, Shipley & Halmos, Save Khaki, Robert Geller, Rogues Gallery and Benjamin Bixby. As you can imagine, it was a who's who in the menswear industry as well as CFDA members, groupies and bloggers. Since I belong to each category, my attendance was non-negotiable.
I went with my partner in crime, Peter Som. It's so much more fun to shop with a friend. Don't you agree?The event was held in the same loft like space at Rockfeller Plaza. Each designer had a tableau vivant of rotating models wearing carefully curated outfits that best represented their collection. The boys were elevated on pedestals so we could get up close and personal, scrutinize the details and 'shop' the looks. Robert Geller's singular vision was a standout for me. His cut and tailoring is superb and his point of view is so original. I've got my eye on a few pieces that will go perfectly with what I already own. They are just what I need to update my wardrobe.I also like Yigal Azrouel's slouchy ombre' knits and stylized mountain boots. His bohemian aesthetic totally appeals to me as well.Later, I found out that Robert was the winner of the competition. I'm so happy for him. Robert is one of the nicest guys in the business. He is fiercely determined and oozing with talent. Aside from winning $50,000 as part of his prize, he will also be creating a mini-collection for Levis to be sold on their website and a few Bloomingdales stores for one month. Mark your calendars! These limited edition pieces are guaranteed to sell out in days! Robert has a strong and loyal following.This was one party I'm glad I didn't miss. Aside from seeing what the boys wear, I like to be where the boys are!