H&M makes a splash with KYLIE MINOGUE in a new beachwear line

The perfect match, H&M�s key theme for summer is Australia: a laidback sporty beach lifestyle and glam is the big-hitter trend. So who better to personify this fabulous �relaxed meets disco� hybrid than the Melbourne-born princess of pop, Kylie Minogue. Kylie has been the inspiration behind H&M�s limited beachwear line that comes to all H&M stores that sell womenswear in mid May. Kylie is also the face of the upcoming beachwear campaign.

'You only have to look at Kylie�s fantastic personal style to see how stylish she is, and she is such a sweet person. She was very enthusiastic in communicating what she personally likes to wear on the beach and showed us visual references like her own favourite 60s vintage bathing suit, which inspired the halter neck costume,' reveals H&M�s head of design Margareta van den Bosch.

This concise beachwear line perfectly mirrors Kylie�s relaxed fun-loving demeanour as well as her show-stopping stage persona in a line that melds simple throw-on casual with glistening glamour. Think shimmering silver bikinis, vibrant water-inspired aqua blue and green swirl-print towels, bags and pareos as well as slip-on smock tops and billowy peasant skirts.

In homage to beach living the beachwear line is built around a swirling water-inspired aqua blue and green print, which appears on fluffy towels, crisp cotton-voile smock tops, the retro-cute halter neck bikini and costume as well as on a silk head scarf that doubles as a belt and a high-tech nylon beach bag that folds down into a natty silver wallet-shape.

The Kylie beachwear line is a limited edition that contains fifteen styles. H&M customers however, will not be left wanting when it comes to poolside attire. H&M´s main beachwear range pushes all the right trend buttons in a look that smacks of glam beach-life, where glinting silver and gold metallic play off graphic black and white animal prints, while sizzling hot hues of yellow, red and pink reflect the surfing influences.

10 percent of the money spent on the 'H&M loves Kylie' line will be donated to WaterAid. The international charity WaterAid is dedicated to the provision of safe domestic water, sanitation and hygiene education to the world�s poorest people.

SISLEY FALL/WINTER 2007/2008 WOMEN�S COLLECTIONS TRENDS

Wall Street. A tough NYC look is created by a hard-hitting smoky black wardrobe, with a sophisticated sex appeal. A selection of contrasts offer various options: Short and boxy trench coats or long, sleek and elegant ones with fur collars. Trousers are either wide with many darts or tapering and very slim. Sweaters are either wide one piece garments or figure-hugging with parts in quilted nylon. Shiny minis or Bermuda shorts in cool wool.

Top Gun. For the determined woman there is a provocative rethink of the tracksuit and the aviator jacket. Slim-fit down-filled jackets and jogging shorts, form-fitting jeans with striped sweaters. Knits are romantic and relaxed, and shirts are arabesqued and shiny like a fuselage. The main colours are air force blue denim and khaki.

Gosford Park. A soft and feminine look for the country. Faux fur or hand knitted boleros, frock coat jackets in waterproof cotton or wool worn with long trousers or shorts. The colours of a rainy English countryside are brightened by flashes of violet and rosewood shades.

Herringbone, velvet, Prince of Wales, moleskin, leather and faux fur are softened with floral patterns from the Art-Nouveau of the 1930s. Breakfast at Tiffany�s. A sophisticated section worthy of the Holly Golightly/Audrey Hepburn icon. The theme�s key looks are the evening and cocktail dresses in black and cream. Either a slim-fit version in textured fabric or a fuller dress in organza with random sunray pleats coated in gold. Naturally there is daywear too. Short, boxy sixties style coats above the knee, ultra-lightweight and sheer �veiled� knitwear and black trousers to be worn with faux mink jackets cinched at the waist by flashy belts in passion red.

On the 31st of May �Galinel� Fashion House held a real �Gipsy wedding� on the stage of the Ancient Theatre. The elegant dresses of the Company�s new collection glittered against the background of the stage of the ancient ruins turned into a Gipsy camp for the show. The ovations went to the typical full-length Gipsy skirts presented by the top-models Iren Onteva and Violeta Zdravkova.

Golden flax, 100% tiger silk and over 200-year-old jewelry from Uzbekistan. �Batwing� tunics with hand-encrusted accessories filled with the Gipsy spirit of old times and short trousers with sports pockets reminiscent of adventures � �Gipsy� skirts, made of over 25 meters of 100% silk, catching the slightest possible puff of wind and elastic bodies, subsequently decorated with embroidery and elements of ancient times, executed in �absurd� color combinations � lilac and emerald, crimson and violet� �Breech� trousers with special insertions for creating �special� visual effects and vests with �American shoulder line� and necks reaching down to the �sweetest� part of the woman�s breast�Tunic dresses of minimal length and long fairy sleeves...

"Galinel" held a "Gipsy wedding" fashion show on the stage of the Ancient Theatre in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Naomi Campbell introduced Cat Deluxe at Night

Naomi Campbell introduced her new perfume Cat Deluxe at Night, the late night glamour version of 2006's Cat Deluxe.

Cat Deluxe at Night opens on a fruit cocktail of black currant, pear and exotic fruits, followed by cyclamen, peony, cotton blossom, precious woods and amber.

Naomi Campbell Cat Deluxe at Night is available in 30 and 50 ml Eau de Toilette, 30 ml Eau de Parfum and matching body products.

Eva Longoria's wedding photos are worth $2 million

Eva Longoria and Tony Parker got married in the palace Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte on the luckiest day in history, 7/7/07. This 17th century castle located in the south of France is known for its beautiful gardens. The couple chose France because it is Parker�s native place and because it is so romantic to marry in a French castle.

OK! Magazine is reported to have paid $2 million to have the exclusive pictures from this Saturday's wedding.

The 32-year-old Eva Longoria, who is starring in the worldwide TV hit "Desperate Housewives", and the 25-year-old Tony Parker, an MVP NBA champion are two people that everybody has heard about. She is a beautiful Mexican-American. He is a Belgian raised in France and playing in the US.

No wonder that the wedding is billed as the wedding of the year. We wish you luck Eva!

Sisley - F/W 2007/2008 Accessories collection

For the past couple of seasons Sisley has been focusing on perfecting top-quality accessories, well made and highly structured, emulating fine craftsmanship from times gone by. The collection for winter 2007/2008 is born of a classic concept, bon ton for her and dandy for him, resulting in highly creative and on trend results, a significant innovation on the general scene.

The main collection of bags is the jacquard all-over �S� motif, in shiny/matte fabric and high-gloss waxed material in basic colours. The designs also combine the jacquard with other materials � plain and croc stamped leather, suede, fur and rhinestone � for the handles, flaps, fastenings, buckles and pure decoration. The shapes are convex, rigid, average size, bowling bag, cylinder and case.

The ultra-classic messenger bag and the tote with two handles and a much longer shape are available in plain croc stamped leather. The models in tumbled leather are slightly squashier: hand or shoulder bags with metal chains and faux tortoiseshell. For him large bags and briefcases in canvas and split leather with a colonial feel.

The two different types of footwear for the season are either the ankle boot: flat, pointed, in plain leather, sueded and napped, for him and her, or the lace-up leather shoe for her, sueded and �stained� derby shoes for him.

Belts are must-have accessories for everyone. Studded, plaited, decorated with fake coins and dyed in the most classic of colours: black, white and brown. However the most eye catching are the double and triple styles with several buckles or those that run twice round the waist.

Hats off to the new berets with small visor and chain stitch decorations, and to the rethink on jockey caps in plaid bouclé and the warm caps in tricot and fur, like that of a Nordic explorer.

New store openings and new markets for the Undercolors brand

Undercolors - the Benetton Group's underwear, beachwear and nightwear brand expands across the world with a glamorous store concept, new openings in Italy and Europe and rapid growth in new markets like India.

Gloss, Undercolors brand-new store concept, uses colours, forms and fittings to highlight the brand's more sophisticated, feminine identity and seduces customers with an inviting environment and a warmer, more personalized atmosphere.

With this new store layout Undercolors two lines are instantly distinguishable. Fun, the ironic line designed for those who prefer colourful, light-hearted underwear, looks its best against a glossy white background. Charme, the Clean Sensuality line for women who seek simple seductiveness, stands out against glossy grey walls.

The shop windows have modular-panels making it simple to adapt product to space, showing off both to best effect. Luminous bands around the perimeter walls effectively highlight the different themes in the collections. The whole concept is characterized by high-gloss surfaces and mannequins.

The programme of new Gloss-Undercolors store openings, which began in Barcelona in August, has quickly developed to include 15 new shops in major Italian and European cities including Florence, Venice, Rome, Warsaw and Athens. Fifteen more stores, including Madrid and Lisbon, will open in 2007.

New markets where Undercolors is concentrating future expansion are India, Eastern Europe and Northern Europe. In particular, the brand debuted in India in October this year and around 15 new stores are planned to open there in 2008.

Undercolors currently has 870 stores and sells 10 million garments around the world. Its international expansion will continue with 50 more new stores in 2008.

A spontaneous style yet with fashion detailing

Brilliant colours, dynamic style, young glamour, international mood. Four definitions which, in a harmonious whole, sum up the UCB collection for the next spring and summer season. A spontaneous style yet with fashion detailing, true to itself, while incorporating lifestyle changes.

New Woman, or formalwear from 8 in the morning to 8 in the evening, with strictly classic items featuring low waists, ultra-narrow hems, basic colours and stripes in all widths and all directions. Outerwear, long or short, has trench details; the shirts, the current must-haves, also influence the cut of the t-shirts and minidresses which become shirt dresses.

Her like Him, basic men�s styles with feminine charm. Neutral tones with a touch of rosewood. Slouchy trousers top the bill yet when it�s the turn of skirts they must be fluid and floaty above the knee. A parenthesis of sprigged silk and a sparkle of sequins that are barely visible soften the raincoats and the striped shirts of the perfect executive.

Everything�s Ethno, an unpredictable touch of folk; stateless fashion details tell of far-off lands: Peruvian stripes, Caribbean flowers, Japanese sleeves, African patterns, Indian jodhpurs and Nepalese layering.

Sweaters, or a world of knits. Soft tricots in every colour, every stitch and every size to be worn with multicoloured leggings and tape knit shrugs. Stripes are endearing and enchanting decorations � horizontal, vertical, floral, openwork, ruched and gathered. The rugby polo shirt is offered in multiple lengths, even as far as the ankle.

Collection "Invisible"

The newest fall/winter 08/09 collection called „invisible” of EDITH A´GAY was presented on Friday 27.02.08 in the Goehte Institut Paris, rue 17 Avenau d´Léna near of the Palais Tokyo.

Supported of the austrian e-music group named the „Nu Legé” (Mia Legenstein & Martin Nussbaum), who was composed the music special for the show, and played it live.

In front of the reduced stage design, with long gray strips as background, was the impression of the collection with ground colours of white, red and black most successful.

Edith A’gay’s newest fall/winter 08/09 collection „invisible” transfers the glow of summery warmth to cold winter days.

At first glance, the flecee-lined fine pure-silk outfits seem like delicate summer dresses and evoke a lightness so very untypical of winter collection.

This aesthetic concept is supported by the great attention to detail on the inside of many of the items.

They are lovingly and subtly decorated with various graphic elements wich only become visible when the body moves underneath.

The University of Rock ‘n’ Roll of 60’s and 70’s play again in Manuel Bozzi’s special Guitar Belts

The original “Guitar Belts” of Manuel Bozzi draw inspiration from the musical atmosphere of 60’s and '70’s personally re-interpreted in a unique Bozzi’s Rock-Chic Style.

Precious and elaborated silver jewels, the “Guitar Belts” perfectly remind the three most famous electric guitars in the history of the Rock World: "Stratocaster", "Les Paul" and "Flying V". They are incredible luxurious pieces realized in black cowhide with buckle jewel in sterling silver, everything hand made realized.

These three works represent the Top Collection of the italian designer (deeply appreciated by the french fashion designers Marithè+François Girbaud who trust on Manuel since 2001 for a special collection of accessories and jewels).

The incomparable beauty of “Guitar Belt” let Manuel won the “Premium Young Designers Award” in the category "Best Accessories Designer".

aleXsandro Palombo by CERVIN Paris -

aleXsandro Palombo under licence from the French company L’ARSOIE

from Marilyn Monroe to the QUEEN SOFIA of Spain today,
the actress CATHERINE DENEUVE and showgirls like DITA VON TEESE

The French manufacturer L'ARSOIE, world leader since 1920 in the production of couture and Fully Fashioned haute couture stockings and tights with the "CERVIN Paris" brand, has the pleasure of announcing the launch of its new collection, "aleXsandro Palombo by CERVIN Paris" haute fashion stockings and pantyhose set to debut in autumn/winter 2008/9.

The outstanding talent and imagination of the Italian designer from Apulia, aleXsandro Palombo, are merged with the unique and refined savoir-faire which has always distinguished the French "CERVIN Paris" brand, synonymous with luxury and exclusiveness.

Serge Massal, president and general manager of L’ARSOIE, declared: “aleXsandro Palombo is a gifted creative capable of combining elegance and modernity with a strong artistic spirit and a fantastic sense of color, the right combination to create exclusive garments which are symbols of modern femininity.”

L'ARSOIE was founded in 1920. It has supplied European royalty with elegant stockings, a story that has passed down through 3 generations and still today preserves the secrets of an ancient and unique art out of respect for tradition and outstanding quality.

Many famous personages of past and present wear CERVIN Paris products: from Marilyn Monroe to the QUEEN SOFIA of Spain today, the actress CATHERINE DENEUVE and showgirls like DITA VON TEESE: CERVIN Paris produced stockings specially for her performance at the Crazy Horse.

“I am honored to join CERVIN Paris, the skill and the long history of L’ARSOIE are a great source of cultural enrichment, a unique opportunity to create fetish collections devoted to the art of seduction, making one of the symbols of femininity a luxury accessory,” declared aleXsandro Palombo.

The key to CERVIN’s success is the rare elegance of its products which represent sheer luxury. CERVIN is 100% made in France, distinguished for its high quality and its "Fully Fashioned Authentiques Bas legwear", the famed stockings worn by Marilyn Monroe made using an ancient technology that makes it possible to knit the stocking in the form of the leg on machinery from the early 1900s which only L'ARSOIE possesses today. This is a feature that enables the firm to create stockings that are real works of art. The excellence of the workmanship of these rare luxury products make CERVIN Paris the world leader in this field with its distinctively French elegance.

The distribution of the collection "aleXsandro Palombo by CERVIN Paris" will be tightly focused and exclusive, reserved for an up-market clientele who will find the elegant stockings in select luxury multi-brand shops and prestigious international department stores.

The collections will include Fully Fashioned stockings, hold-ups, pantyhose, above the knee stockings and leggings. Their crafted elegance, design, precious embroideries, high quality cashmere and silk weaves will make each creation a luxury haute couture accessory that will be presented in refined bijou packaging as a tribute to femininity.

Bobo Zander Jeans – the excessive ease of Being

This summer Bobo Zander Jeans will be a combination of modern and street fashion style. There are nuances of extravagance in some models suitable both to everyday use as well as to the office or leisure. Light, airy and free - they are fine and perfectly made.

Clothes are vital and beautiful, inspiring and charging. Bobo Zander Jeans models bring a rich and exciting variety of combinations of sports and feminine elements typical for that brand. Materials, textile designs and patterns as well as the high quality of used fabrics and fine details bring a completely modern outlook. Beautiful floral stamps blossom on the highest quality fabrics - silk, cotton, linen.

The brand uses excessively the so-called washed clothes which give a natural look of clothing. Cotton and linen, the denim in blue, brown or black are perfectly combined with airy silk and chiffon.

The design priority is given to the comfort and freedom of movement. Teen style of the brand does not come into conflict with classic line but it is in perfect harmony with some ethno elements. They bring charm to every combination of different elements. Shapes and colors perfectly comply with the fresh and free lifestyle.

The first United Colors of Benetton temporary store inaugurates today in Corso Vittorio Emanuele 24, with a preview of Child collections for A/W 2008

Luciano and Alessandro Benetton, respectively chairman and executive deputy chairman of Benetton Group, inaugurate today the first United Colors of Benetton temporary store, entirely dedicated to children and mothers. The store, which will be open for two months hosting many new features, will introduce the exclusive preview of the autumn/winter 2008 collection.

The temporary store - 1500 square metres on two floors – presents the new System concept, designed to show to best effect the products in the two main collections, Baby for newborn to 5 years and Kid for 6-12 years. A special mood is created right from the entrance where a towering, kaleidoscopic cascade of T-shirts will welcome young and grown-up customers alike.

A series of dedicated services will put children firmly at the centre of attention: a Team Coppola hairstylist will give under-12s a new haircut in the latest trend; a personal shopper, a true style specialist, will guide mothers and children in making purchases that suit the child’s look and personality.

The shopping experience will be made even easier through the use of a practical touchscreen conversion chart to help customers find the right size. And a light-hearted test, What type are you?, allows kids to define their look and find it inside the store. There will also be an area for the creation of personalized, unique gift packages.

Before the year end, the United Colors of Benetton temporary store for children will be replicated at a permanent location in Milan.

System is an interior décor concept devised to create a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. There are two versions with different styles and features: Baby System (newborn to 5 years) and Kid System (6-12 years). The Baby area is decorated in soft colours, natural materials, suffused lighting. The furnishings are composed of large display cupboards, sets of drawers and a baby-changing corner. A delicate world with the added charm of fragrant candles, cushions and plush toys; an area where mothers find it easy to choose baby clothes. The Kid area enhances the products on display through the use of grey tones which highlight the Benetton collection’s power of colour. The walls feature giant product photos of the collection’s highlights and also support product display fittings. Similarly, striking display cases present the collection’s key looks.

The Milan temporary store showcases the A/W 2008-2009 collection. A total look for babies, children and expectant mothers. Glossy and glitter fabrics, feminine elegance in grey or punk black, lots of denim, vintage taste and colourful little coats form the girls’ look. Carefully detailed padded and non-padded jackets, slim-fit trousers, 5-pocket and cargo pants, college-style, sporty or punk sweatshirts for boys. Newborn styles go from the classic pink, blue and butter of the layette range to the brighter tones of the fashion line. The maternity range completes the collections.

There are over 1,000 UCB children stores around the world. United Colors of Benetton children sales grew by 15% in 2007, accounting for 30% of total revenues.

Adidas Originals present two pairs of limited edition sneakers to commemorate movie launch of Hellboy II

Outstanding street wear brand adidas Originals is proud to announce a unique tri-collaboration project for the fall/winter season 2008. It will launch two sneakers to coincide with the global release of the Hellboy II ‘The Golden Army’ movie in August 2008. The collaboration brings together adidas Originals, Universal Studios & Guillermo Del Toro, the film’s director, and Dark Horse Comics & Mike Mignola, the original comic book artist of Hellboy. Together, this tri-project has produced two outstanding sneakers: the Forum Mid-Golden Army and the Stan Mid-Hellboy.

The Forum Mid-Golden Army takes the court standard and mixes the appropriate trio of gold, black and white with Hellboy lettering across the Velcro strap, with an image of Ron Perlman as the titular demonic anti-hero on the outsole and footbed. Additionally, adidas Originals created a jaw-dropping statement with the Stan Mid-Hellboy in cooperation with Dark Horse Comics & Mike Mignola. The black shoe has the image of Hellboy printed on its side in red and extra details on the inner and outer sole, like a collection of three extra footbeds, plus lace jewels, a mini-comic and unique tongue branding. Both the Forum Mid-Golden Army and the Stan Mid-Hellboy come in a specially designed shoe box and different tissue wrappings, making them true collector pieces.

The shoes will both be released worldwide in a limited edition. A total of 5,000 pairs of the Forum Mid-Golden Army will be sold in adidas Originals stores and selected partner stores. 1,000 pairs only of Stan Mid-Hellboy will be available exclusively in adidas Originals stores. Retail prices will be $100/€100 for the Forum Mid-Golden Army and $150/€150 for the Stan Mid-Hellboy.

asos.com Unveils its New Summer Luxe Collection

asos.com unveils its new summer Luxe collection, which, this year is inspired by Cleopatra and the Art Deco movement evoking an exotic mood.

Sumptuous quilted decoration and embellishments are textured and patch-worked together creating a fresh new look for the evening dress collection at asos.com.

The collection comprises of 8 dresses in a beautiful array of silk satins and silk chiffons. Silhouettes remain true to form with floating empire dress shapes through to sexy low back shift shapes.

"The Luxe by asos.com collection is ultra glamorous and, with that added attention to detail, always gets a fantastic reaction from our shoppers," states Moriamo Oshodi, asos.com Womenswear Head of Buying.

A block colour bandeau dress with scattered stud detailing appears in zesty shades, whilst a delicate sheer butterfly cut dress in aqua and purple is equally feminine and whimsical. The little black dress option appears in layered silk chiffon with gold embroidered neckline, enabling a dress for every summer occasion.

asos.com is the UK's largest online fashion and beauty store, attracting over one million visitors a week. With over 9,000 products available and 500 new lines added each week, asos.com is the online shopping destination. Since launching in June 2000, asos.com has won numerous awards including 'Retail Week Online Retailer of the Year' 2007 & 2008, 'Cosmopolitan Retailer of the Year 2008' and 'In Style Best Online Shop 2008'.

Glamour for everyone in the Undercolors collection for summer 2008

Glamour for everyone in the Undercolors collection for summer 2008, with enticing changes in direction for her, trendy chic for him and playful irony for the little ones. While this is the overall impression, a closer examination reveals much more, range by range, item by item. A sophisticated style, skilful coordination of both colours and materials and lively fresh ideas combine to create underwear for the summer season that is a pity to keep to yourself.

Women

Black & White – Two “non colours” used together or solo for primadonnas. Headlining the trend is the balconette bra, seductive yet with discretion. Checked mesh and lace, broderie anglaise, marl Lycra, tubular plumetis, brushed microfibre with tiny flowers and narrow rib jersey for lingerie, nightwear and homewear sets.
Modern Pompadour – Eighteenth-century pageantry, from the salons of Versailles to our wardrobes. Soft pastel colours, colour blocks or with a pattern of stripes, flowers and checks, with corsetry lace inserts. Bustier vest and culottes, in narrow stripe Lycra and almost see-through entredeux lacy trim hint ingenuously at the courtesan, while the other items are a feast of bows, ribbons, small ruffles, ruching and sheer floral prints.
Mimì and Athletic Style – Lightweight delicacy rather than erotic fantasy. The first is a fusion of tennis and nautical influences, focusing on the wide-eyed kitten mascot, for basic items in cotton throughout. Strong colours, softened by glitter prints and laminates, with visible elastic for the second theme, and mainly homewear pieces and gym underwear.
Ironic Style with Cow and Frog and their distinctive colours: one in white, black and pink, the other in white, raspberry, royal blue and frog green. The pyjamas and homewear are comfortable and basic.

Men

Black & White – For super-trendy men, briefs and boxer shorts with trompe l’oeil elastic, narrow horizontal stripes for the tubular jersey and plenty of black-tipped marl colours. Serious fashion items, with macho vests making a major comeback.
Modern Pompadour – Peacock blue underwear for men with logoed elastic, floral patterns from exotic gardens and pastel pyjamas with narrow stripes, for a rather chintzy style.
Athletic and Ironic Style – Definitely suitable for a manly look: basic colours dominated by white for underwear, homewear and pyjamas with great simplicity and fantasy.

Children

The fun themes of the collection for the younger ones: Ironic Style Cow and Frog, Mimì and Athletic Style. In plain and narrow rib cotton we have pyjama separates that can be imaginatively coordinated, nightshirts and simple-style underwear, often unisex.

BEACHWEAR COLLECTION

Under the summer sun or in the water Undercolors thinks big and multiplies ideas, decorations, colours, matching schemes, accessories.

Riding the wave of new trends, the collection makes one-piece fans happy, with proposals ranging from denim with zigzag stitching to a modest straight neckline with broad horizontal stripes. A perfect example of Benetton’s style, colours and range of knitted accessories – i.e. beach robes and sweaters – the one-piece promises even more in the future.

The greater part of the collection is made up of bikinis, in all shapes and degrees of daring. The byword is mix ‘n’ match. Not only because each theme includes maxi and micro designs, flowers and butterflies, stylised chains and hibiscus blooms, stripes and hearts, floral sprays and Madras, plain colours and logos. But also because there’s enormous scope for personal choice by picking freely from one range or another. The only limit? Our imagination.

“Closed circuit” styles for the lazier amongst us: a plain-coloured tennis theme with grosgrain bows; a nautical theme featuring thin stripes; a Lolita theme in pastel broderie anglaise.

Each line offers beach dresses, sarongs, shorts and light blouses. Not forgetting beach bags, straw bags, flip-flops, wooden sandals, sun hats and beach towels.

The growing popularity of one-piece swimwear for women is matched by men’s fondness for close-fitting shorts which, when they want to really exaggerate, lengthen into Bermudas. Men’s designs borrow freely from the women’s rich pattern palette and offer a more macho version of the plain-coloured tennis theme and the maxi and micro Madras pattern, sometimes combined with over-dyed faded flowers. New for the men’s collection are the “underbeach” logo, faded badges, floral waves and big, white floral sprays on surfing-style coloured backgrounds.

The children’s decorative elements tend to simplify adults’ designs to produce a naïf/cartoonish effect; perfect as always for mixing ‘n’ matching. Simple stripes, Provençal checks, pastel shades and an invasion of tiny starfish, bright-eyed baby octopi and pink or pale blue kittens. For little girls, of course, while the boys imitate the full range of adults’ tastes.

Adidas by Stella McCartney Spring/Summer 08 Launching Golf

Successfully grown since 2005 the critically acclaimed adidas by Stella McCartney collaboration is presenting the spring/summer 08 collection for the very first time during London Fashion Week as the official closing event. Highlights are the introduction of Golf as a new sports category within the performance range accompanied by the broadening of the Cover Up section as a follow-up to popular former seasons. The line also features 100% organic cotton pieces within the Washed segment and a new packaging concept with boxes made out of 100% recycled paper alongside the different categories.

After the recent winning launch of Dance for fall/winter 2007 the adidas by Stella McCartney line now hits the ball with Golf as a new category and extends naturally. Whether to brush up on skills or to start as a beginner, with the adidas by Stella McCartney golf range there is no restriction of elegance outside on the green. This segment is inspired by men�s silhouettes and traditional tailoring, combined with feminine details and grace. Soft stretch fabrics and pristine smart polo's fit perfectly with Codura jackets and underline the ideal proposition for the fusion of performance and style. In addition, the line consists of key looks for après sport e.g. on the way to the club house breaks. Highly functional golf footwear introduces the Garbato shoe that offers waterproof technology while showing great attention to details such as embroidery eyelets and a removable kiltie tongue allowing different style options.

Stella McCartney comments: "I think it is about time that women who play golf can now echo what they wear in everyday life on the green. It�s exciting for me to bring a bit of an edge to golf."

The Cover Up pieces are designed for warming up as well as cooling down and can be easily worn to and from the gym. All pieces show a love for details such as splash prints, herringbone tape facets or cocoon silhouettes. Highlight products are the Run Cover Up Short Sleeve Light Jacket and Image Tank as well as the Yoga Cover Up Hoodie and Short proofing comfort being beautiful.

The Gym category is split into three segments: Studio, Yoga and Dance. Strong graphical elements as well as taping details are featured within the latter, whereas Gym Yoga pieces bring in natural fibres e.g. bamboo. Clean lines come in to the fore to show pureness and simplicity.

The Running pieces re-emphasize lightness this season. All product materials were chosen under the aspect of lightweight e.g. mesh materials with see through effects. This part of the collection is inspired by vintage running styles with modern twists, coming to life in more extreme silhouettes and bandage/paneling designs to create an unexpected twist. Highlight within footwear is the Microbounce Spotu that represents a light and flexible edition with clear TPU for structure and a mesh sock upper.

The overall ambience is supported by the seasonal color story that is more about a subtle combination of shades and tonality in addition to a soft metallic story and hints of pop color tones. The highly functional sports collection consists of apparel, footwear and accessory pieces that fuse style with top-level technology for maximum performance: FormotionTM and Clima365 representing the highlight technologies within apparel and Bounce a3 within footwear.

The spring/summer 08 collection will hit retail in around 600 stores in February 2008, including high-end department stores - such as Harrods, Holt Renfrew, Nordstrom - as well as adidas Sport Performance stores, Stella McCartney stores and selected sports retailers all around the world. Alongside Golf, Gym and Running, the spring/summer 08 range continues to offer highly functional products for Swim and Tennis. Prices range from 15 Euro for the Tennis wristbands up to 260 Euro for the Golf Jacket.

The future, science fiction and space in Sisley Limited Edition

The extremely stylish and chic characteristics of the Sisley Limited Edition collection are perfectly reflected in its very elegant symbol, a black feather.

The collection takes its inspiration from different worlds: the future, science fiction and space as imagined or seen in the movies are blended with memories of historical costume, from the Middle Ages to today.

Thus metallic fabrics and studs, high-tech materials and precious silks, jewel buttons and leather thongs, zips and buckles, trench belts and obi belts, sweetheart necklines and cut-out necklines, floaty chiffon and pressed-cloth, coated jersey and handmade tricot work all together in perfect harmony.

A sophisticated world which comes to life after dusk and is dyed in night shades, cut with metallic flashes: deep and matte black, cosmos blue, mercury, asphalt and stone grey, the gloss of lamé, of lurex and of coated leather. Denim, an all-time must-have, finds fresh success in impeccable tones of black, of dark and iridescent blue and white.

Flawless details and richness of materials in the apparent simplicity of true and sophisticated elegance, just like the feather that adorns the Sisley Limited Edition label.

La Perla Black Label collection - intense and striking sensuality

Crystal crosses and references liberally taken from the texts of medieval copyists. Like a Gothic novel, the La Perla Black Label collection recounts the tale of a lady imprisoned in an ancient castle on account of her flaming desires... Garments with an intense and striking sensuality. Neo-Gothic references to depict beauty and dark passions.

COLOURS: pitch black, flaming red.

SEXY PROHIBITIONS

Shiny satin and daring transparency effects, in which the lightness of lace is overshadowed by fascinating tricot-effect knitwear. The geometric figures of the lace on the impalpable tulle have an aggressive allure. A LITTLE HEART PENDANT, silver coloured, reads "MADE WITH LOVE", personalising the garments. An unexpected touch of sweetness in a totally black look.

OBSCURE PASSION

Seduction hovering between eroticism and romanticism: LUREX, but in an embroidered version with Gothic characters for the Black Label logo that lights up the bra cups and the back of the briefs. CLOSE-UP on the panties with an old-fashioned feel in the cut, and the mini undershirt with an alluring opening between the cups.

MEDIEVAL SEDUCTION

Medieval fascination, with dilemmas of love and other dramas. Two symbols, decidedly "hot", clothe a lady who is a prisoner of desire. A CAGE, reinterpreted in the form of a bodice, made with whalebones covered with satin and modelled entirely by hand. A CROSS, that of the Knights Templar, in Swarovski crystals, is one of the two cups on a bra made in double-layered soft tulle, or lights up a mini G-string.

EROTIC TEMPTATION

The erotic tension between sexual temptation and sin. Like miniatures on ancient manuscripts, the print on grey or ivory satin depicts prohibited desires with a neo-medieval flavour. There are also Gothic-style captions on a "set" of push-up bra and low-waist brief. An entire chapter for the BLACK LADY: NIGHTDRESS with a black lace flounce and DRESSING GOWN with an extremely soft Mongolia fur collar. The shantung SHRUG, fastened at the neck with an enormous bow, has an aristocratic feel.

SWEET TOOLS for LOVE TORTURES

Among temptations, fake tortures and erotic prohibitions, a complete set of DEVICES to seduce without inhibitions: the plexiglas mask; the black gloves in elastic tulle with velvet fingers; the collars, with a padlock or a Templar cross; the Mongolia fur shrugs; the mini-bags, strictly black, in lace or leather; the rabbit fur hat and the sheepskin clogs. STEEL APPEAL: a singlet in brilliant steel, like an ancient coat of mail worn by knights.

Couture Fashion Week New York Spring 2008 Event a Glamorous Feast for the Senses

This year Couture Fashion Week New York exceeded all expectations and delivered the largest and most distinguished audience of socialites, diplomats and VIPs during New York Fashion Week at a single event.

From the electrifying performances by award-winning violinist Alexander Markov and the Masacote Dance Company to the intricate garments by international fashion designers hailing from all corners of the globe, the shows were a feast for the senses held at the Westin in New York's world-famous Times Square and the exquisite St. Regis Hotel.

The fashion collections were as creative and versatile as the variety of designers and the countries from which they hail.

The next Couture Fashion Week event will be held in New York in February 2008. Other upcoming events include a couture fashion show in December 2007 as part of the grand opening of the Desmond Tutu Center in New York City, and couture fashion shows in Palm Beach in December 2007, among others.

John Galliano embraced the Russian look at Paris Fashion Week yesterday

The designer's ready-to-wear collection displayed peasant blouses, embroidered skirts and hip-waisted military coats teamed with towering high-heeled shoes and coin-covered headdresses. The outrageous collection - which included diaphanous vests and voluminous skirts and a Russian-style bridal gown - won praise from fashion fans and critics alike.

Model-and-actress Milla Jovovich, who was seated in the front row, said: "It was like some opening into a doorway of dreams in Russian-Ukrainian fairy tale fantasy dreams."

At the end of the show, the designer stood on the fake snow-covered catwalk to accept his applause wearing riding boots, a swashbuckler coat and tri-corner hat.

In contrast to Galliano's theatrical show, Chloe presented a traditional, feminine collection featuring slightly hippyish, flirty daywear, including several pant suits in muted tones of caramel and apricot.

Hermes made leather a heavy feature in their autumn/winter collection.

Models cleverly dressed as imitation Amelia Everharts were sent down the runway - complete with flying goggles - to showcase bomber jackets and trench coats, teamed with pleated pants and leggings.

Designer Jean-Paul Gaultier explained: "I was inspired by a woman, I forgot her name, an American pilot with very short, wavy hair who was wearing an aviator jacket - which I love - and a little scarf that was so Hermes. That's when I said, 'ah ha, that's it.'"

Among the accessories showed by the fashion house was a modified version of the legendary Birkin bag, which has done away with the traditional flap opening.

Kenzo were also inspired by Russia, showcasing oversized felt coats and huge striped knits teamed with knit caps and bulky scarves.

Designer Antonio Marras said he had considered how Russian women dress for the colder months. He said: "It's a very, very cold winter in Russia. She packs her trunk) with a military jacket, an embroidered dress, platform boots, scarves, gloves ... In Paris, you have the marriage between Russian culture and French allure."

Baneasa Shopping City – “The Most Luxurious Shopping Center” at Romanian Fashion Awards

Baneasa Shopping City received on Saturday, the 15th of November, the award of „The Most Luxurious Shopping Center” at the Romanian Fashion Awards Gala this year, at Rin Grand Hotel, Bucharest.

Baneasa Shopping City received a special award in the fourth evening of Bucharest Fashion Week, being appreciated by the jury as the shopping center that changed the mall concept in Romania, by its style, refinement and by the brands it promotes. “We are honored by this award and we are glad that all the efforts we made in order to offer our visitors the chance the shop like in the biggest European capitals haven’t passed unnoticed. We have always put our visitors at first and we tried to give them quality and new. Also, the invitation to be in the jury at the Romanian Top Model Category is a sign that our concern for fashion was well received, as a natural step.” Loredana Croicia, Communication and Promotions Manager, Baneasa Developments, stated.

Romanian Fashion Awards rewards and encourages the best initiatives in fashion and modeling at Bucharest Fashion Week. Other distinctions awarded at the Gala, in the following categories: the best make-up artist, the best hair-stylist, the best stylist, the best fashion/stage photograph, the best top model woman/men, the most active modeling agency, the best designer prêt-a-porter/haute couture, the best young designer, the best society magazine and the designer of the year.

Bucharest Fashion Week was this year at the 10th edition. The event is organized by Fashion TV Romania, The National Association of the Modeling Agencies and the Romanian Designers Association. During this event, Baneasa Shopping City presented collections of the stores inside in a spectacular and entertaining show. Another 50 collections of the most important Romanian designers were presented during Bucharest Fashion Week, and also some of the special invitees from abroad.

Manuel Bozzi awarded `2008 Best young enterpreneur`

Italian designer Manuel Bozzi increases business network of his brand and lands on YOOX.COM after been awarded by Italian ASCOM.
After being edited, for both personal artistic history and incredibe collection of jewels/accessories, on national and international most prestigious magazines (from talian press like VOGUE GIOIELLO, ELLE, VANITY FAIR, GRAZIA, MAX, MAXIM, etc...to worldwide press such as ELLE Rssia, GQ Spain, VOGUE Australia, FHM Spain, etc..) the popularity of the designer Manuel Bozzi and his brand has crossed the national limits and generating an indissoluble sign in a really few time. 

During 2008 the creativity and art of Manuel Bozzi, perfect expression of Made in Italy in the World, has registered an important growth for the business of the brand MANUEL BOZZI which leaded to national and international finishing lines. Important and remarkable the new extension of retail network that distribute MANUEL BOZZI both in Italy and all around the world.

At the top of this incredible annual growth, MANUEL BOZZI landed on YOOX.COM too, the N°1 most important virtual boutique of fashion and design in the world. Manuel Bozzi has been inserted among best contemporary designers, with this great operation MANUEL BOZZI brand reached global digital market…the one without any time or country limit.

A snug embrace, an exuberance of colours, a triumph of style, an irresistible source of temptation

A snug embrace, an exuberance of colours, a triumph of style, an irresistible source of temptation. This is the United Colors of Benetton women’s collection for next winter. Look after look, everything is unexpected, elegance, trend, originality and allure...

New Woman - The minimalist response to a legitimate desire for something new. The little textile or knitted coat is the passport to the future. Made of luxury materials, it clings to the body and complements knee-length skirts, stretch stirrup pants, cropped jackets and boleros. All in black and earth.

Sweet Military – Little roughness, lots of tenderness for the military look. There’s green, there are short jackets, parkas and cargo pants too, but our feminine soul surrenders to soft skirts, little dresses, crossover knitted tops, and to lilac, apricot or alabaster ponchos. Soft fabrics, silky cottons and wash-tempered leather.

Hot Road Folk – Demureness on a motorbike. You need full, flared skirts and little flared jersey dresses, leather biker jackets and short belted jackets. A contrasting mixture which engenders pop motifs, romantic flowers and light knits in the shades of the sunset, or asphalt black and smoke.

Box North Pole – When the frost bites, bright colours emerge and knitwear becomes a must. The latest trend in overwear is in fact for chunky knits sewn like fabric alternated with wool duffle coats and down coats and jackets; layered, striped sweaters over ever-fashionable jeans. Tutu skirts and little flared, wool dresses satisfy the cheekier among us.

A shoe for all seasons

Delicate embroidery and luxury Kimono fabrics, splashed in rich golden materials, were carefully sourced from small villages, tucked away in the depths of Japan, as part of shoe designer, Hetty Rose's next collection.

With a desire to create something different and unique, the designer found unusual fabrics and used them to create key significant pieces in strong, bold designs as part of her new collection.

Hetty said: 'It's much harder to find the highly detailed fabrics I've used in this collection and there is much more work involved in working with these heavier fabrics, but I really wanted to show that Japan has something more to offer than the traditional Asian fabrics we often see.'

Most of the designing was done when the designer was in Japan earlier this year, travelling between the three main cities sourcing fabrics. While travelling on the fast trains, she was inspired by the strong architecture, temples and huge skyscrapers.

The collection sees a move away from feminine, very high heeled shoes to more chunky shoes with heavy buckles. While the fabrics are still feminine, the shoes are distinctly for people who want to stand out from the crowd.

As the shoe designer reaches her third season, she has taken on board requests from regular clients who wanted more wearable everyday shoes with lower heels. So this season, three pairs of flat shoes have been added to the collection, as well as an assortment of lower heeled shoes.

The collection shows a move towards trans-seasonal shoes with less sandals and courts, instead the designs are for all seasons. 'If the style is versatile and the shoes have been made to measure, in theory the shoes will be wearable forever' Hetty added.

The "SHOT OF LOVE" by Manuel Bozzi’s cufflinks

A clear message of PEACE at ROCK’N’ROLL rhythm plays with harmony in MANUEL BOZZI’s luxurious cufflinks

The Italian designer MANUEL BOZZI, always following to his conceptual art that extends to the parody and the irony with unusual depth of contents, he realizes a mini-series of sterling silver cufflinks that represents typical war symbols like bullets and guns but originally reinterpreted with an important message of Peace.

The sterling silver - favourite metal by the designer – it becomes “animated" and it takes life expressing a message, a feeling which is the real feeling belonging from the aim of the artist. The born accessory is incredibly precious; it shows class, elegance and non - conformism with a great value more: a message of Peace.

Guns and bullets are reinterpreted in Peace & Rock'n'Roll art key by MANUEL BOZZI, that transforms them from symbols of war to romantic and delicate jewels, enriched of flowers, hearts, innocent animals and precious stones.

The bullet cufflink starts from the story of bullets as historical symbols of war used "to kill the vampires". This meaning is turned into parody of the conflict by MANUEL BOZZI’s point of view. The bullet of the Italian designer is a creation of peace and love. It’s romantic and precious, able to mix silver with quartz, rubies and luxury stones, embellished with hearts hand-engraved and with small innocent flies.

The gun, universally considered a dangerous weapon, is made unusable in MANUEL BOZZI’s artistic vision. Romantic roses handmade worked embrace gun making it peaceful and less dramatic. It’s not a real weapon any more, it’s no more “war time” but exactly the opposite of it...and everything has a clear link to the world of the Rock’n’Roll, that made the designer famous all around the world.

Cufflinks, the most classical accessory for elegant tuxedo, is made distinctive and alternative by MANUEL BOZZI. High quality of the workmanships, precious stones, metal embroideries and above all a great message: "Shoot!"... but only to originate a loving alchemy, a flirt, an attraction. This is the "Shot of Love" by MANUEL BOZZI: "the only way according to which we should use our weapons"

Plunge, Balconette and Bandeau Party Bras and Basques by Panache Lingerie

Panache Lingerie is featuring teal as a colour. There are models in teal coloured satin with chocolate brown accents in the ribbons and black with a teal lining and very soft lace.

Another mysterious colour they use is called Coquette. The pants are sexy too with elasticated ruching up the back which helps define the shape of the cheeks, they feel very soft so even though they are hipsters they do not tend to cut into the hips.

The brand also offers a long line basque which really accentuates ones figure and a balconette bra set. Both the bra and the basque are true balconette bras, low cut to work under party dresses and yet give fabulous uplift.

The plum coloured bra called Harmony is such a flattering every day bra, the lace is beautiful and has give in it so as not to make a hard line across the bust which would show under clothes. The colour is warm for the winter months.

"We have found this such a successful bra that we have it in black, white, nude, cornflower blue and we will continue to buy the seasonal colours as they come in because it it a proven winner.

Pam Hogg is returning to the catwalk with a show at London Fashion Week

The Scottish fashion designer will present the Autumn/Winter 09 collection of her new label Hogg Couture at On/Off.

Creative director of On/Off – the largest independent showcase during London Fashion Week - Lee Lapthorne told Vogue.co.uk: “We are delighted to support Pam and salute her return to fashion week. The whole team is right behind her.”

Hogg is best known for her outrageous collections during the 80s – including catsuits and metallic leggings, as well as many items in PVC and leather - which saw her inspired by a diverse range of items including sportswear, S and M rubberwear and 15th-century armour.

She has a legion of celebrity fans, having dressed singers Kylie Minogue, Siouxsie Sioux, Roisin Murphy and Rihanna and models Naomi Campbell, and Daisy Lowe.

Hogg – whose collection will be show at The Science Museum on February 23, said: “Great to be back, it's the time to dress up again.”

The designed announced her return to fashion with the new label last year.

Prada is teaming up with top fashion stylists to bring a new look to several of their biggest stores

n a project the design house is calling The Iconoclasts, four of the world’s most influential stylists will be given free reign to make over Prada stories in key cities.

The professionals will “transform the look of the sites” and help create a “new dynamic”, according to vogue.co.uk.

The concept will follow the fashion calendar and so will start in New York, where W magazine’s Alex White will set to work altering the Broadway flagship store.

From February 17, London’s Old Bond Street store will receive a makeover courtesy of Katie Grand, whose new magazine Love – which features British supermodel Agyness Deyn dressed as Queen Elizabeth on the cover of its debut – will launch at next week’s London Fashion Week.

Oliver Rizzo, who has worked on a host of publications including V, Another and Arena Homme Plus, will then take charge of Milan’s Via Monte Napoli.

Lastly, French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld will make over the Avenue Montaigne.

Prada.com will feature details of all the takeovers as they happen.

Michelle Obama is to appear on the cover of US Vogue magazine

The wife of US President Barack Obama will become only the second First Lady to grace the front of the world famous fashion publication.

Speaking about the decision to feature Michelle - the country’s first African-American First Lady - in the March edition, Vogue’s editor Anna Wintour said: "Change was the clarion call of Barack Obama's election campaign, though I don't think any of us at Vogue initially realised that would include the difference that was going to be made by First Lady Michelle Obama's wardrobe.

“It's inspiring to see our first lady so serene and secure in her personal style."

Michelle wears a magenta dress designed by Jason Wu - who also created her stunning inaugural gown - and poses on a sofa for her cover shot, which was taken by legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz.

In another picture, the 45-year-old trained lawyer is seen hard at work - talking on the phone and surrounded by a laptop, pen and paper - while wearing a black dress by Narciso Rodriguez.

During the interview, Michelle reveals she is adjusting to life in the White House - but insists her priority remains being a mother to her children Malia and Sasha.

She said: “I'm going to try to take our two daughters to school every morning – as much as I can.

“But there's also a measure of independence. And obviously there will be times I won't be able to drop them off at all. I like to be a presence in my kids' school. I want to know the teachers, I want to know the other parents."

Although most American First Ladies have been photographed for Vogue, only Bill Clinton’s wife Hillary managed to secure the magazine’s front page in 1998.

Rachel Roy hopes her New York Fashion Week collection will help women survive troubled times

The American designer is keen to do all she can to help women get through the current global economic crisis, and claims her new designs will do just that.

She said: “With so much going on in the world right now, I wanted the clothes to be secondary to what women are doing, the problems they are trying to solve.”

Her collection included strong-shaped power pieces in delicate, feminine fabrics – successfully mixing supremacy with softness.

The models wore cropped wigs and strong make-up while wearing heavily tailored outfits with a distinctive lace lingerie touch.

She added to vogue.com: “That’s why it’s about monochromatic dressing. It’s a strong look and it’s easy to wear – wearing all one colour always looks good.”

Monique Lhuillier’s collection took on a more romanticised ideal with survivalist undertones, as wispy layers of fragile fabrics hung over ripped tights and laddered stockings hinting at determination and fight.

Away from the catwalk Halston entertained onlookers with a digital show which boasted an array of helium balloons, sequined tuxedos and party dresses skipping down the streets of New York.

The male ranges were also of a practical nature, as checks, knitwear and cosy layers frequented Guilded Age and John Bartlett’s collections, preparing the men for a much slower-pace.

Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, DKNY and Herve Leger have all wowed with their collections at New York Fashion Week

Marc Jacobs packed his Autumn/Winter 09 show with 60 models – double the average 25 at other shows – wearing acid-coloured micro minis, studded ankle boots, sculpted corsets and thigh-high boots in purple suede or black leather.

Jackets were angular and shirts boasted bold, structured shoulders, offering a fresh take on retro.

Clashing colours were also heavily featured in the show, with pink fuchsia dresses paired with green tights and silk scarves.

Coats came in a variety of primary colours – most notably the bright pink, hooded jacket – while a strong display of eye-popping bags also made their way down the runway on models’ arms.

Diane von Furstenberg delighted onlookers with a bright and energetic collection inspired by the nomad.

Fashion director Hilary Alexander enthused: “The colourful collection veered from wonderful to wacky and sometimes downright weird.”

Diane mixed knits, leopard prints and paisleys with plaids, black and white geometrics and gold and silver beading to dazzling effect.

Noted pieces included tunics over camouflage leggings, pom-pom hats, platform clogs, tartan coats and metallic tweed micro dresses.

The audience responded well to the show, especially legendary singer Diana Ross who sat resplendent in a gold satin Diane von Furstenberg blouse in the front row, and appeared delighted when the models sashayed down the catwalk to a mega mix of her songs for the finale.

Donna Karen’s DKNY collection was characterized by neat tailoring, cinched waists and a pallet of jewel colours.

Key looks included a pair of green patent shoes, bright checked tweeds in pink and grey – used for jackets and over-the-knee pencil skirts – pinafore dresses, a pillbox hat and elbow-length gloves.

Celebrity favourite Max Azria – showing his Herve Leger collection – opted for a series of body-conscious dresses in a range of snakeskins and metallics.

Fans of Azria’s infamous bandage dress were not to be disappointed – he updated the staple, featuring it as a halter-neck, scoop-neck, V-neck and off-the-shoulder piece.

Heidi Klum doesn’t care she has been branded “too heavy” for the catwalk

The German model laughed off remarks made by designer Woolfgang Joop – who claimed Heidi has “too big a bust” to be a runway model – claiming she pays no attention to negative comments.

She said: “Do I look like I care? I really don’t think about Joop or what he said. What am I supposed to say? It’s his opinion.

“It’s a life where everyone can say what they want to say and everyone can have their opinion - that is his. In this business you have to be fit, but I always try to be a good role model and not too thin.”

Wolfgang launched an astonishing attack on Heidi, claiming there is “no way” she would ever be a catwalk success.

He said: “No way, she is no runway model! Heidi Klum is simply too heavy and has too big a bust. And she always grins so stupidly. That is not avant-garde – that is commercial!”

Heidi, 35, has also revealed she had no idea modelling could be a career option when she was young, adding she fell into it by accident.

She explained: "When I came out of school I didn't even think that modelling was a job. I kind of just went sliding into this, I entered a contest on television and I won. I didn't really know how successful you can be in this job and what you can do or that I can be on television and have a TV show and all these things."

Justin Timberlake has shown his William Rast collection at New York Fashion Week

The singer-turned-fashion-designer displayed his Autumn/Winter 09 range to a celebrity-filled audience yesterday (17.02.09), during the fourth day of the prestigious fashion event.

Justin – who started the label back in 2006 with his friend Trace Ayala and designer Johan Lindeberg – was supported by his girlfriend Jessica Biel, his mother Lyn Harless and his former ‘N Sync bandmate JC Chasez, who cheered the 28-year-old from the front row as he strutted down the runway with his design team.

William Rast - which is famed for its edgy denim styles with the exclusive ‘V’ stitched onto the back pockets – aims to give their charming Southern style an urban twist.

Both the menswear and womenswear collections featured dark, charcoal grey, black and smoky shades, with a limited use of colour throughout.

The menswear included sharp single and double breasted blazers paired with slim, straight legged jeans, while the women’s range attempted a casual-chic effect by mixing acid washed jeans, glitzy skirts and shoulder-padded shirts.

The event – the first time the label has been shown at the official venue – proved extremely popular, with many celebrities shunning the Marc Jacobs show in favour of that GQ magazine has dubbed America’s most stylish man.

Justin revealed he finds it hard to understand why he has been dubbed a style guru, adding his own fashion icon is British supermodel Kate Moss.

He said: “She looks good in anything. She would look good in one of your T-shirts, in her T-shirt, in a man’s suit, in a huge gown. She even makes nude look stylish. That, to me, is a style icon.”

Victoria Beckham attended the launch of Giorgio Armani’s New York store

The former Spice Girl – who is the face of Armani’s lingerie collection – stunned guests in a sparkly pink asymmetrical tunic dress and matching satin heels at the opening of the designer’s huge shop on Fifth Avenue.

Speaking at the event, Victoria – who has just showed her latest collection at New York fashion Week – revealed she hoped to one day be as successful as Armani.

She joked: “I have so much respect for Mr. Armani - you know, I can dream!”

Other celebrities who attended the lavish event included Alicia Keys, Leonardo DiCaprio, John Mayer, Josh Hartnett and Liam Neeson.

Alicia was thrilled to be at the event, commenting: “I love Armani’s style. I love his passion. I love how Italian he is. I love that he doesn't speak English. I love the way he makes a woman be a woman.”

The innovative store is housed over three floors and was designed by Doriana and Massimiliano Fuksas.

It is housed in a glass cube, and is expected to expand to include an Armarni restaurant later this year.

Despite the amount of celebrities in attendance, the legendary designer decided against throwing a lavish bash to celebrate the opening – instead donating $1 million to a public schools fund.

New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art has revealed plans for a new exhibition entitled “The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion”

The exhibition – which will be part of the Met’s annual Costume Institute Gala in May this year – will explore the history of modelling and society over the past fifty years.

Coveted fashion designer Marc Jacobs and editor of US Vogue Anna Wintour – a chairman of the event and trustee of the Met – have joined forces to arrange the display, which aims to show how the world of fashion has altered since Christian Dior’s 1947 New Look collection.

Curator in charge of the Costume Institute Harold Koda explained the exhibition – which will be co-chaired by Kate Moss - will be split into 10-year eras, featuring 50s stars such as Dovima and Suzy Parker, 60s icons like Twiggy as well as modern-day models including Kate Moss.

Marc - wearing a grey astrakhan coat and kilt-fronted shorts – and Anna were at the museum to announce the plans yesterday (18.02.09).

They were joined by thirteen mannequins all dressed in Giorgio Di Sant’Angelo - the originator of the first body-con designs, whose designs will feature in the exhibition - and a wall-sized copy of the famous British Vogue cover shot featuring the original supermodels, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista, Tatiana Patitz and Cindy Crawford.

The upcoming exhibition will be styled by Academy Award-winning designer John Mhyre and will run from May 6 until August 9.

Meanwhile, as the New York leg of Fashion Week prepares to close, some of the newest runway stars are tiring of the late nights, long days and runway shows.

Model Nika Lauraitis has revealed her secrets to surviving the week, explaining: “I try to stay energised by having a good breakfast and lots of beauty sleep. Sleep whenever and wherever you can! Save all you energy for castings and the catwalk.”

Oscar de la Renta’s Autumn/Winter 09 collection has drawn mixed reviews at New York Fashion Week

The 76-year-old designer unveiled his new pieces in a decommissioned Park Avenue church, but drew criticism for failing to push fashion boundaries.

The collection was full of his usual ladylike cocktail dresses, satin evening gowns and tweed suits, and featured lots of fur – including sable, broadtail, mink, chinchilla and skunk.

The designer also used faux fur – key pieces included a lynx-printed puffer vest and a lame leopard-print dress.

Waists were cinched with gold belts, while splashes of jewel colours offset the vast swathes of black featured.

Models were sent down the catwalk with their hair scrapped into backcombed chignons, which vogue.com noted were “dramatically ageing”.

Also drawing criticism were a clutch of aubergine coats and dresses, which only served to make models look old.

American designer Anna Sui’s show was more successful.

From the outset – when British model Agyness Deyn, who has been mysteriously absent for the rest of fashion week, strutted down the catwalk – Sui’s obvious delight at showing her collection was clear.

Texture was key to the show – combinations of lace, chiffon, wool, velvet, tweed and thermal cotton were all apparent.

Prints were also the order of the say, with Sui describing some of the patterns as "golden buttercup tulips and ikat plaid", "black and cream wallpaper floral stripe" or “black and cream Proustian butterflies”.

Like Oscar de la Renta’s collection, Sui’s featured lots of black, with models sporting embroidered boleros with beaded fringes and lots of velvet.

Proving she’s not quite ready to ditch her kooky image, Sui also sent faux birds tied onto stocking hats, printed stockings and over-the-knee fur-trimmed boots down the catwalk.

Other recent highlights include the Michael Kors show, which included beautifully cut, simple pieces and the 3.1 Philip Lim showcase, which focused on wearable glamour.

Narciso Rodriguez showed well-structured, sharp clothes in a series of eye-popping brights.

As well as the more stayed designs which have seen US President Barack Obama’s wife Michelle become a firm follower, Rodriguez also wowed the crowd with a series of sci-fi inspired headwear.

Photo: Model from the spring-summer 2009 collection of the designer

Giorgio Armani says his career is “linked for life” to Richard Gere

The Italian fashion designer claims his livelihood was transformed when his clothes were featured in Richard’s 80s movie ‘American Gigolo’, and credits the actor’s good looks with getting people interested in his brand.

He said: “Director Paul Schrader selected my designs for his film. The look was revolutionary for the time - when menswear turned elegant, with casual tailoring.

“Richard Gere was the dream actor and model - he had a sensuality in the way he moved. His character mixed rebellious unconventionality with style. Our careers are linked for life.”

The 74-year-old designer is equally as enamoured with Hollywood star Jodie Foster, who he dressed for the Academy Awards ceremony in 1995.

He said: “Jodie and I have similar personalities - we both know what we want and are clear in our decisions. When we started working together, twenty years ago, I appreciated the fact that she declared, ‘I’m an actor. You tell me what I should wear.’ She told me this was the best evening gown she ever wore because of its comfort, even fully beaded.”

Despite already boasting a legion of celebrity fans, Giorgio is always keen to push the boundaries of his brand.

In 2005, he launched a couture line – Armani Prive – despite many in the industry claiming there is no place for such lavish designs in today’s world.

Giorgio explained to the New York Magazine: “The first collection - just 35 outfits - was mainly evening wear. For some, couture is about costume and theatre. But not for me. I am creating this collection in a very thought-out, pragmatic way. This is about offering a very special, personalized service for my best clients.”