Lifestyle

As Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) is finally being put to rest, I’ve taken the time to reflect on Anna Wintour’s power. Specifically, whether or not she’s “too big to fail” and if she’s smart enough to navigate any disaster that may come her way.

It’s no secret to those who know me that I have a love/hate relationship with the snappish lady who put fashion to bed with politics. I don’t recall when I first became aware of her power, but it’s been an enlightening experience to see her move mountains and (probably) buy herself an ambassadorship position in the process. While I am still working on figuring out her superpowers, I am sharing with you the lessons I’ve learned from her FNO fiasco.

Let’s start from the beginning.

Remember 2009? Between the economy crumbling and Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme, the most affluent felt less than optimistic about their futures and, consequently, stopped spending. The fashion industry was caught with their pants down and excess inventory, which lead to panic and erratically slashed prices. Anna Wintour knew how to capitalize on the nervous frenzy.

What you should take from this experience: TIMES OF CRISIS ARE THE BEST TIMES TO CONSOLIDATE POWER. Don’t be afraid of a crisis.  Regardless of the later outcome, you will get people to pay attention to you in that moment.

I don’t want to imply that from the very beginning FNO was just a plot to further Anna Wintour’s career. However, let’s not forget that after coming up with the FNO initiative and being perceived as saving the fashion world from crumbling, Condé Nast gave Anna Wintour another five year contract.

Lesson to be learned: MOST PEOPLE GET PERSONAL GAINS WHILE THEY LOOK LIKE THEY ARE SAVING THE WORLD.

Now, to me the FNO plan looked doomed from the beginning. I am going to quote Gawker here because I couldn’t say it better:

“The plan seems to spend a lot of money getting people in the stores to spend a lot of money. The one thing we haven’t heard anything about is discounts. Just because Catherine Malandrino is converting her Meatpacking showplace into a French cafe for the evening doesn’t mean that suddenly more people will be able to afford one of her cocktail dresses.”

The lesson: WHEN PEOPLE THINK YOU ARE AN EXPERT, THERE IS NO LIMIT TO WHAT YOU CAN SELL, REGARDLESS OF HOW CRAZY IT IS.

After four years — which seemed to drain rather than fill the fashion industry’s coffins — FNO has finally been put to rest. Anna has not personally spoken on th topic yet, and I doubt she will.

When Steven Kolb, chief executive officer of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), was asked about the money brought in by FNO, this is what he had to say:

“I don’t think the success of it was measured only by numbers or money, but was really about engagement. Everyone feels we had a great four years.”

What is the lesson to be learned here? REGARDLESS OF HOW BAD A SITUATION IS, IT IS RARELY A 100% FAILURE.  FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE AND MAKE THE WHOLE THING LOOK LIKE A SUCCESS.

By Mirela Gluck

As a Phoenix desert resident, my “spring cleaning” generally takes place somewhere between summer’s 115 degree temperatures and winter’s rainy monsoon season. However, when I lived in the great Midwest, that distinct turn from winter weather to sunny spring always inspired me to open the windows, air the place out and get to cleaning.

I imagine those of you in New York are gearing up for that much desired weather about-face. As you prepare to usher in chirping robins and skinny squirrels who’ve reluctantly crawled out of their cozy hibernations, start thinking about your own spring cleaning. And, more specifically, organizing your wardrobe.

Below I’ve briefly outlined what to do with garments you no longer want to keep. Let the list inspire you to get rid of things, if not for more closet space than for a little extra dough in your back pocket.

1. Store it

Let’s face it. Going through your closet isn’t a black and white process. You have a “keep pile,” a “toss pile” and a “Eh… I’m not really sure what I want to do with this yet” pile. The lattermost is the trickiest. After all, the last thing you want to do is regret your decision to toss something out. Anything with sentimental value, for example, should be kept. Designate a box for “maybes,” label it as such and then thoughtfully re-visit the clothes again on another day.

2. Sell It

As someone who frequently moves, my favorite part of spring cleaning is getting rid of things (fewer things to pack up later). What makes it even more fun, though, is cashing it all in. I’ve become quite good at this and, honestly, could write a whole book on the process. I’ll give you a few highlights and tips below, though.

– Sell it online via online via eBay or Craigslist. Craigslist is fee free, but it will require more of your time and the ability to coordinate your schedule with buyers’ schedules. High end items in good condition do best. I prefer eBay because it’s less work.

– If it’s vintage (especially high end), consider selling it on Etsy. Especially if you have a lot of it. You’ll have to pay seller fees, but the Etsy platform attracts thousands of buyers willing to spend money on high quality. Always take attractive pictures and detail blemishes, dimensions and any pertinent information.

– Head to a local consignment shop. This requires the least amount of your time and you won’t get the whole profit, but at least you still make money on your goods. Always call ahead to see what the shop needs most and bring your garments clean and on hangers.

3. Give It Away

There will always be a few garments that others don’t want. For example, clothing that shows its age or has tears, stains or pilling are not going to sell. Consignment shops will simply reject them and online buyers won’t bite. For these, let’s call them “unwantables,” your best bet is to simply donate.

You have several options. First, you can offer them for free on websites such as Craigslist and Freecycle. This is nice because anyone who claims them will come to you.

Alternatively, you can donate them to local homeless shelters or thrift stores. Donating to a registered charity allows you to claim tax deductions. Always ask the organization for a proper form.

4. DIY it

If you’re crafty (or want to be crafty), thoughtfully examine any “unwantables” and re-invent them. For example, old frocks with pretty patterns can easily be turned into throw pillows or re-cover an old chair. Check YouTube or Pinterest for thousands of ideas.

You can also upcycle an old garment by adding to it or changing it in some way. Again, lots of ideas are available online. The below blogs are some of my favorite DIY Fashion blogs — let them inspire your own creations!

P.S. I Made This…

Studs and Pearls

Love Meagan

DIY Fashion Tumblr

By Wendy Rose Gould

Today is the official start to the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week for Fall 2013 Collections! Wow, okay, not excited? I can almost hear your “over-it” sighs proceeded by an exaggerated eye rolling. I know, I know, another year, another fashion week. You are fans of fashion, heck, you live for fashion, but you feel like a kid during recess who is left out of an exciting game of kickball. Year after year you read reviews straight from the runways, drool over photos, and watch six-foot tall models from around the globe strut around your city like they own the place. There are fashion events everywhere and you are not invited. I get it. But fashionistas do not give up! Do not throw away the opportunity to be ahead of the trends and to keep up on all the happenings of your favorite designers simply because you feel left out! Seize the opportunities that this year’s fashion week is presenting to us! With more public events plus the ability to now stream runway shows live online, you will have the same perks that Anna Wintour has! Well, almost. Ok, not really. But let’s pretend because this is your ultimate chance to get out your notebooks, jot down your favorite looks and participate in the fashion gossip that is buzzing around on the web, whether it be on a message board or your own fashion blog, as well as talk shop in person with fellow fashionistas at fun and free events.

Fashion Week Kick-Off!

Tonight is the night to schmooze as you sip champagne with industry insiders and celebrities alike. Head over to XL Nightclub for the Official NY Fashion Week Kickoff Party when doors open at 8pm to assure entry and to grab yourself a prime time spot in order to people watch and see which fashion maven you can talk up in order to score an invitation to the upcoming week’s runway shows.

THURSDAY, February 7th — Fashion Week Day One

This year, Lincoln Center expects to see more than 100,000 people in their Damrosch Park during eight days of fashion. Many fashion lovers will camp outside the invitation only shows to simply people watch and spy on what the who’s-who of fashion is wearing. But it’s too cold for that this year. You, my friend have an invitation of your own this time around. Such sites as newyork.mbfashionweek.com and livestream.com, as well as designer’s respective official sites, will offer a live view of their individual runway shows.

From here on out, follow the links we provide for shows that we recommended in order to snag a front row seat to all the fashionable action.

9 a.m. ET — Nicolas K

10 a.m. ET — BCBGMAXAZRIA

FRIDAY, February 8th — Fashion Week Day Two

3 p.m. ET – Rebecca Minkoff

In between live streams, head down to Bloomingdale’s in SoHo to shop brand new ready-to-wear collections from noted emerging designers. Designers featured in this one-time showcase include Aristotle Rosario, Daniella Kallmeyer and Sunghee Bang. Pair your hot new clothing with accessories from on the rise jewelers Anna Coroneo, Laura Wass and Leonard Bridges. All designers noted above were the winners selected from Bloomingdale’s B Seen program in January.

6 p.m. ET – Nicole Miller

SATURDAY, February 9th — Fashion Week Day Three

11 a.m. ET – Jill Stuart

The popular Nolita restaurant Ken & Cook will play home to a special event titled “A Night of Art Meets Fashion,” which is hosted by Amy Poliakoff from Bravo’s “Gallery Grils.” This pop-up is a mash-up of stunning pieces by talented artists and designers alike. All artwork, by both established and upcoming artists, will be on sale during a fun cocktail reception starting at 9pm. Also available for purchase will be unique fashion items from Fashion Week designers during a lively fashion show presentation at 11pm. Proceeds will benefit Women’s Cancer Research and the Hurricane Sandy Relief Kitchen.

SUNDAY, February 10th — Fashion Week Day Four

2 p.m. ET – Tracy Reese

4 p.m. ET – Diane von Furstenberg

6 p.m. ET – Vivienne Tam

MONDAY, February 11th — Fashion Week Day Five

10 a.m. ET – Carolina Herrera

2 p.m. ET – Donna Karan

5 p.m. ET – Betsey Johnson

Monday evening in the West Village brings us another fun and fashionable benefit. From 7pm-10pm Ayza Wine and Chocolate Bar (our two favorite things) will celebrate Fashion Week as they host “Sip IN Style,” and evening full of live jazz music, fashion inspired cocktails, and raffles for designer handbags and jewelry, all benefiting the New York City based charity Dress For Success. Simply RSVP to [email protected] to get your name on the list.

TUESDAY, February 12th — Fashion Week Day Six

10 a.m. ET – Badgley Mischka

11 a.m. ET – Vera Wang

3 p.m. ET – Dennis Basso

6:30 p.m. ET – Oscar de la Renta

WEDNESDAY, February 13th — Fashion Week Day Seven

10 a.m. ET – Michael Kors

11 a.m. ET – Nanette Lepore

1 p.m. ET – Rachel Zoe

2 p.m. ET – J. Mendel

6 p.m. ET – Anna Sui

THURSDAY, February 14th — Fashion Week Day Eight

Happy Valentine’s Day! Unfortunately neither Ralph Lauren nor Calvin Klein wish to be our valentine and in turn are not offering live streams of their runway shows. That’s fine. We’ll just have to stalk to trades for reviews of this one.

So until the next go-round of live streams and fashionable events, Bye Bye Bye Fashion Week! It’s been fun!

By Caitlin Colford

TheVogueCity takes New Year’s resolutions very seriously. That’s why we’ve put together a series of stories to help make your fashion-related goals a success for 2012. Today we’ll focus on how how tuning into your body, lifestyle and budget positively affects your fashion sense.

	Know Your Body One thing is for certain: The more confident and fabulous you feel in your own skin — and outfit — the more often you’ll earn compliments throughout the day. So, instead of focusing too much on what’s trending at the moment or what you should wear based on your body type, evaluate how you feel in an outfit when gazing into the mirror. If you feel beautiful, comfortable and fashion-forward, by all means, buy the garment and walk out the door a proud shopper. Finding clothes that make you feel that good are a great investment, too, as you’ll likely wear them often. It goes without saying, as well, that what you feel best in is probably flattering to your body.
	Know Your Lifestyle Though many women are tied together by their love of fashion, most lead dramatically different lives. Before dropping loads of cash on a new wardrobe, it’s important to understand your lifestyle. For example, those who visit low key restaurants and funky art galleries should dress according to the casual attire of those events. If you’re an elegant woman who frequents the opera and symphony, a collection of fine gowns and apparel will be worth your money. Socialites and party go-ers may want to stock their wardrobe with cocktail dresses and flattering blouses.
After assessing factors like your job and hobbies, fill your wardrobe with the necessities. You’ll want proper work wear, party wear, formal event wear, seasonal basics (e.g. hats, gloves, coat, parka, bathing suit) and the essentials (10-15 items you’ll wear often, like a white shirt for layering, a cashmere cardigan, a well-fitted jean, jacket, heels and flats).As for determining what appeals to you, fashion-wise, look to your favorite celebrities for inspiration.
	Budget Before you even enter a store (be it virtual or brick and mortar), make sure you have a budget. Set either a monthly, weekly or annual spending limit and then shop accordingly. Understand that bargain shopping will give you more bang for your buck, but don’t be afraid to splurge if your budget allows. The ultimate goal is to choose quality items that’ll last through the years. If you can find a flattering garment that’s well made and 80% off, by all means, snag it. If you fall in love with a piece that’s more than you’d typically pay, think about whether it’ll earn heavy rotation and make your decision from there.

By Mirela Gluck