New York Fashion Week’s Annual Go To Destination September 7 – 10, 2008

New York, NY – August 18th, 2008 – After several successful consecutive years of cutting-edge fashion events and experiences, LIVEstyle Entertainment and HFM U.S. continues to evolve their innovative STYLE360 show during New York Fashion Week.

From September 7 – 10, STYLE360 will serve as the alternative Fashion Week destination and showcase 6 hand-picked fashion designers and two stores representing the West and the East Coast, Dash and Caravan, through their Spring/Summer 2009 runway shows. The audience will include national and international media, buyers, industry tastemakers, celebrities and socialites with confirmed celebrities Laura Bell Bundy, Russell Simmons, Mel B, Josh Madden, Taryn Manning, and Khloe Kardashian. All shows will take place again at the historic Metropolitan Pavilion with a series of after parties off-site including the American Photo Cover Party hosted by Nigel Barker at Bloomingdales SoHo (504 Broadway, between Spring and Broome). Other STYLE360 events to follow include the Russell Simmons ArgyleCulture Collection after party hosted by Russell Simmons, and the STYLE360 closing party at Metropolitan Home’s Showtime House (23 Gramercy Park South) co- hosted by Taryn Manning and Tara Jane of Born Uniqorn.

STYLE360 after-parties will feature complimentary Rose’s Mojito cocktails and other libations made with Milagro Premium Tequila, Hendrick’s Gin, Reyka Vodka, Sailor Jerry Rum and Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur. Ecco Domani wines and Barefoot Bubbly will also be official wines served backstage at the fashion show and at the STYLE360 parties.

“Our proposition is still about connecting emerging fashion designers with corporate partners to create an enhanced fashion show experience through an innovative stage”, explains David Manning, Executive Producer at LIVEstyle Entertainment. “The STYLE360 concept, however, takes the 60 feet of runway to magazine pages, the internet, TV sets, mobile phones and retail displays to reach a much bigger market for both the fashion designer and participating corporate brands.”

This season Tide® Total Care™, which combines the best of beauty and fabric care technologies to help maintain the beauty of clothes, is sponsoring the Caravan show and will highlight how ready-to-wear machine washable looks can also be fashionable. In addition, LU biscuits is sponsoring this season’s designer competition. This award and competition invited Elle readers to visit http://elleextra.elle.com/LUstyleaward during the summer and cast their vote on who should show their collection at STYLE360, while also entering to win a trip to New York and VIP access to the show. New corporate sponsor, Oral B, will debut their new toothbrush on the runway during the DASH / SMOOCH show being presented by Khloe Kardashian and Mel B. ELLE Jewelry, the official jewelry sponsor, will have chic pieces integrated throughout various fashion shows. Aldo, the trend fashion footwear leader will be collaborating with Abi Ferrin to complete the looks for her New York Fashion Week debut. Rusk hair stylists will design the models hairs for each shows during STYLE360. Rusk will be demonstrating quick tips through stylist consultations making runway looks seen at STYLE360 into reality using the latest Infinity by Conair tools.

Hachette Filipacchi Media (HFM), the publishers of Elle, Elle Decor, Metropolitan Home, and American PHOTO, has for the past 4 years executed STYLE360 for designers. Corporate sponsors making STYLE360 possible Oral B, LU biscuits, CONAIR/RUSK/Scunci, Tide, American Laser Centers, ELLE Jewelry, Aldo, and Ecco Domani. Fashion TV and PinkMemo.com will also be supporting with broadcast and blogging from the events.

“I am proud of what we have been able to do over the past five years with this initiative.

STYLE360 has been created to specifically give designers the ability to showcase their collection during New York City fashion week.

Furthermore, STYLE360 also allows our advertising partners to be a part of a fully integrated campaign during this time.”

-Al Silvestri: Vice President/Director of Corporate Marketing & Strategic Development

STYLE360 SCHEDULE- Updated as of 8/20/08

*All fashion shows will be held at the Metropolitan Pavilion (125 W. 18th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues).

Sunday, Sept 7th
10 AM– LU Style Award Winner - Walter Collection
2 pm– Abi Ferrin collection
7pm– House of Cassette collection

Monday, Sept 8th
10 AM–Caravan Designers Collection Presented by Tide Total Care
2 pm–Maya Swimwear Collection
6 pm–Jordache Collection
8 to 10pm– After party at Bloomingdales SoHo (504 Broadway, btwn Spring and Broome), co-hosted by Nigel Barker/ Elle.com/AmericanPHOTO.

Tuesday, Sept 9th
10am Dash/ Smooch Collections presented by Oral-B

10:30am Ultimo Lingerie Collection presented by Mel B and Oral B
1pm– Farah Angsana Collection
5pm– Russell Simmons ArgyleCulture Collection
7:30 to 10:30pm- Russell Simmons after party TBD

Wednesday, Sept 10th
8pm to 11pm - After party at Metropolitan Home’s Showtime House Co-hosted by Caravan and Born Uniqorn (23 Gramercy Park South).

…For those seeking all that is provocative, Ed Hardy by Christian Audigier is a refreshing blend of scents inspired by Don Ed Hardy’s famous tattoos. Edgy, sexy, and original, the fragrance is fitting for a brand made famous for its innovative and trendsetting style.

The women’s fragrance features an opening accent of tropical mango, wild strawberries, and a ruby red grapefruit floralcy. This fruity, yet innocent, scent is counterbalanced by the dark, rock’n roll edge of black freesia. And in the background is sexy musk, warm amber, and vanilla.

Celebrity fans include Jessica Alba, Mariah Carey, Paris Hilton, Madonna, Shakira, Ciara, Britney Spears, and Heidi Klum.

The amazing bottle features one of Hardy’s signature tattoos.

“I give you my essential One Hundred. From the A-Line dress to Converse sneaks, from the Cocktail Ring to the Little Black Dress, these are the pieces that have stood the test of time. […] These items are as personal as any woman gets – reading this book is like walking you into my closet.”

— Nina Garcia, from the introduction to The One Hundred

Fashion expert and industry insider, as well as judge on the superhit show, Project Runway, Nina Garcia showed women everywhere what her personal style philosophy is with her debut fashion guide The Little Black Book of Style. Now, a year later she returns with THE ONE HUNDRED: A GUIDE TO THE PIECES EVERY STYLISH WOMAN MUST OWN (Collins; ISBN 0061664618; on-sale August 26, 2008; $21.95). In The Little Black Book of Style, Nina Garcia set out to illustrate an overall philosophy she knows many women who consider themselves fashion-forward oftentimes forget; that true style isn’t about trends, or following the fashion herd, and all about developing one’s personal style-point-of-view. A perfect companion to The Little Black Book of Style, THE ONE HUNDRED goes a step further and shows women what fashion’s essential must-haves are; those items that have stood the test of time, surviving fads and fashion-cycles, as well as universal approval from trend-setters across the globe. Ultimately, this book is a priceless collection of knowledge culled from years and years of elite access to fashion’s most talented designers; it is a premiere shopping list of the highest caliber, one that each woman must be armed with before heading into any mall or department store.

One can think of THE ONE HUNDRED as an easy and tangible style map that all women should follow. From the A-Line dress (narrower on the top, gently flaring out toward the bottom) to the Zippered Hoodie (make sure it is fitted so that you look sleek, not sloppy), Nina reminds women what the tools of the style trade are, and where to find the best of the bunch (black opaque tights? Look for Wolfords. Push-up bra? Try Agent Provocateur.) And then there are those essential items any stylish woman must own to feel chic and be practical: champagne, Blackberry, valid passport, iPod, and of course, the right red lipstick.

THE ONE HUNDRED also dazzles with an acute sense of sartorial history. For great moments in the Hermes scarf, look no further than its appearance as a sling when Grace Kelly’s broke her arm. Aviator glasses grabbed the spotlight when Tom Cruise donned them in Top Gun. The “little black dress” made its mark with Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and rocked the world decades later in its Versace incarnation, famously worn by Elizabeth Hurley at the Four Weddings and a Funeral film premiere. The book is an insider potpourri of fun-facts and pop-culture trivia.

Ultimately though, THE ONE HUNDRED is about helping women write their own history with a closet that reflects who they are at their best. Want to wear fishnets? Nina explains the difference between sexy and cheap. Need the perfect shade of nail polish? According to THE ONE HUNDRED, there are only four to choose from. Nina Garcia shows all that style is about artistry and confidence, and her two books together (the first a bit of therapy, this second a bit of fabulous proactivity), are meant as a one-two punch for anyone wanting to look and feel their best.

Featuring Ruben Toledo’s stunning illustrations and thought-provoking quotes from icons such as Coco Chanel, Mae West, and Diana Vreeland, THE ONE HUNDRED is as essential to the modern woman as the perfect pair of jeans. With wit, wisdom, and her signature candor, Nina Garcia has created a must-have guide that is destined to become a fashion bible.

NEW YORK (August 26, 2008) – American Express announced today a collaboration with famed designer Zac Posen to present a one-of-a-kind private runway show for American Express® Cardmembers at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. On Friday, September 12 at 9:30 PM in New York City, Cardmembers will have access to floor seats normally filled by the top names in fashion and entertainment and have the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live show under the tents at Bryant Park. As a part of American Express’ continued support of designers and the fashion industry, proceeds from the sale of event tickets will contribute to the $500,000 American Express donation to the Council of Fashion Designers of America Vogue Fashion Fund which helps emerging American designers find continued success in the business of fashion.

“This event is truly an exciting opportunity for me to work with American Express and give their Cardmembers access to my work and inspirations in a special behind-the-scenes format,” said designer Zac Posen. “The support from American Express has made a huge impact on the fashion industry, especially their partnership and financial support of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund which has been integral in providing a platform for many budding designers.”

Known for his strong feminine aesthetic and a favorite with fashion editors and celebrities alike, Zac Posen is one of the most sought-after designers in the fashion industry. Preceded by an exclusive reception held onsite in the Main Lobby of the tents at Bryant Park, the Cardmember-only show will feature Posen’s entire runway presentation for his Spring 2009 Collection. Immediately following this closing event of the season, Posen will return to the spotlight to engage in a question and answer session and provide additional insight on his inspirations and creative process, making it a truly memorable night for all in attendance.

Invitations to the unforgettable event are now on sale at www.americanexpress.com/entertainment. Each invite costs $150, and gives guests access to the pre-show reception in the Main Lobby of the tents at Bryant Park, and general admission seating for the runway show and post-show Q&A with Posen. There is a limit of four invites per Cardmember account.

“Zac Posen is an inspiring designer who has been able to expertly combine design innovation with passionate determination to become a leader in the fashion industry,” said Jessica Igoe, Director of Marketing and Sponsorships, American Express. “We are proud to provide our Cardmembers a unique opportunity into the insight behind his collection and experience the excitement of the runways in a whole new way.”

About American Express

American Express Company is a leading global payments, network and travel company founded in 1850. For more information, visit http://www.americanexpress.com.

About Zac Posen

Zac Posen, headquartered in New York, is a global luxury apparel company which designs, markets, licenses and distributes women’s clothing and accessories under the Zac Posen label. The Zac Posen designer collection and accessories are sold globally in select stores including Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Harvey Nichols, le Bon Marche, Vakko and specialty boutiques worldwide. Under the direction of Zac Posen, the company has experienced rapid growth over the past several years. Zac Posen presents four ready-to-wear collections per year and appeals to sophisticated, feminine, strong women of all ages. In addition to day wear, suiting, and evening wear, the Zac Posen luxury lifestyle also includes fur and handbag collections. In 2009 Posen will launch a Zac Posen fragrance, as well as timepieces. See www.zacposen.com

About CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund

The CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund (CVFF) is an endowment that was established to help emerging American design talent find continued success in the business of fashion. In addition to business grants of $200,000 to the winner and $50,000 each to the two runners-up, the award includes mentorship from a panel of industry professionals whose expertise is tailored to the designers’ needs and future goals. Since its inception in 2003, the program has granted nearly $1.3 million to twelve different design companies. www.cfda.com

A partnership based on modern design, current sensibility, and affordable luxury

Global brands Club Monaco and smart USA collaborate to bring inspiration and design to the urban professional with the launch of FASHION FLEET: The Ultimate Urban Trunk Show. The fleet showcases a caravan of chic Club Monaco designed smart fortwos and fall fashion, courtesy of Club Monaco.

The Club Monaco smart fortwos, ten in total, feature images from the newly launched Fall 2008 Club Monaco Campaign, shot by renowned photographer Walter Chin as well as the brand’s iconic black and white crest. The Fall Collection and campaign were inspired by the idea of the downtown aristocrat who brings uptown elegance a downtown flare.

“It’s a natural partnership for us and one we feel aligns with Club Monaco’s core values – design, style, and function,” says John Mehas, President and CEO of Club Monaco. “Both Club Monaco and the smart fortwo are urban and sophisticated, and are geared toward meeting the needs of the modern consumer – one who has a versatile and demanding lifestyle, and is looking for affordable luxury.”

FASHION FLEET: The Ultimate Urban Trunk Show

The partnership will launch during Fashion Week with the ultimate urban trunk show. Club Monaco designed smart fortwo vehicles will cruise New York City streets making stops at the landmark Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week locales. Young professionals will model the must have styles of the season while gifting 75 lucky New Yorkers with iconic pieces from Club Monaco’s Fall Collection at each stop. Gifts will include cashmere scarves, sunglasses from the newly launched collection, statement jewelry and small Italian leather goods.

The ultimate urban trunk show will debut on Sunday, September 7 in the Meatpacking District and will continue with stops in SoHo, Wall Street, the Flatiron District, Midtown and Bryant Park on Monday and Tuesday during peak lunch-time hours.

In addition, Club Monaco’s 57th Street Store window will be dedicated to the partnership throughout Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week featuring a unique design and one of the Club Monaco designed smart fortwos.

“smart USA is excited to partner with Club Monaco for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week activities,” said Dave Schembri, President, smart USA. “smart is the brand at home on the streets of New York City providing drivers with urban mobility, great gas mileage and environmental responsibility. The smart fortwo’s iconic design also complements the sophisticated style of Club Monaco stores and customers.”

The Club Monaco and smart USA collaboration generates a design philosophy that marries functionality and style; tradition and modernity. The result is a dynamic partnership that is not limited by age, price or location. It’s about iconic style.

….beloved of the sky

Tia Cibani’s spring 2009 collection is inspired by the Canadian artist Emily Carr. Carr’s work specializes in her awareness of Canadian native culture through a number of works representing the British Columbian rainforest as well as expressionist paintings, totem poles and other artifacts stemming from the culture of the Native people of the Pacific North West.