Seam Collective Presents Forte Fashion Show Benefiting Gilda's Club NYC

Seam Collective founders from left: Minyoung Leddy,
Shari Rueckl, Vicky Ferraro and Elizabeth Rynish




Dress by Kenley Collins (this is my favorite from her collection)


Kenley Collins with model

Mini dresses by Sheila Frank

Sheila Frank with model

Dress by Elizabeth Rynish

Dresses by Marissa Erskine

Marissa Erskine with model

Marissa Erskine

Elizabeth Rynish

Interview with Marissa Erskine

On October 21st at the Metropolitan Pavilion, designers Kenley Collins, Sheila Frank, Elizabeth Rynish and Marissa Erskine showcased their Spring/Summer 2010 RTW Women's Collections. The fashion show was presented by Seam Collective, "an alliance of women dedicated to promoting the advancement of female fashion designers."

The Forte Fashion Show benefited Gilda's Club NYC. Gilda's Club NYC creates free suppport communities for everyone living with cancer - men, women teens, and children , as well as family and friends. The program provides networking and support groups, workshops, lectures and social activities.

Project Runway finalist Kenley Collins was up first - her collection is inspired by American heroine Amelia Earhart.

Sheila Frank's collection is Elizabethan-inspired with modern aesthetics. I really like the mini dresses in her collection.

Elizabeth Rynish's is very Pucci-esque, with a 60's inspired dress collection infused with futuristic elements and bright colors.

My favorite designer of the night was Marissa Erskine's, instilling butterfly, cocoon and tulip silhouettes in her designs, to exude natural shapes in a whimsical way. Marissa's collection is feminine and fun, perfect for the party girl ready to hit the city. The palette includes pink, green black, cream and metallics. I look forward to seeing more of Rissa by Marissa Erskine.

- Kim Weling

Whitney Port At Sephora Times Square

Looks from Whitney Eve Fall 2009

Whitney Port and Kim Weling

Shoppers on line waiting to meet Whitney

On Tuesday October 27th, Whitney Port of MTV's The City made a special appearance at Sephora Times Square (42nd St & 7th Ave) with looks on display from the Whitney Eve fall 2009 collection. The event hosted by Allure and Sephora presented customers with a $10 gift card at checkout, to be applied toward their purchase of $10 or more. Customers also received a gift bag including the November issue of Allure and PlantLove botanical lipstick in Eve Pinky by Whitney Port, in collaboration with Cargo Cosmetics. Whitney's signature shade is a flirty, sheer hot pink. The lipstick case is made out of corn, and comes in earth-friendly packaging embedded with wildflower seeds. $2 from the sale of the lipstick goes to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Attendees eagerly waited their turn to pose for a pic with Whitney and get an autograph. Two lucky attendees won a $100 Sephora gift card.

Check out my re-cap of Whitney's Spring 2010 collection. Whitney carries size XS/0 in her line, so I am all for her chic cocktail dresses.

- Kim Weling

White Collar Shirt Bar Courtesy of Thomas Pink

On October 22 & 23rd, people stood in line for about 2 hours to receive their complimentary custom-fitted shirt at the White Collar Shirt Bar at Rockefeller Center, courtesy of Thomas Pink.

I couldn't think of a better way to promote the new White Collar series, premiering on USA at the end of October. Whether you were on your way to work or a tourist walking by, there was no way you could miss the seeing the long line at the shirt bar.

Luckily, I didn't have to wait 2 hours in line for my shirt. I saw someone I knew and was able to join her in line for a 45 minute wait. There were two women's fits to choose from - tailored and slim fit. I went with the slim fit, got my measurements taken and was on my way. I thought the shirts were in the $150 range and was surprised to hear that they were actually around $190. I can't wait to receive my custom-fitted shirt in about 10 days!

- Kim Weling

StyleFixx Girls' Night Out Benefiting Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure

StyleFixx was a 2-day nite shopping event held on October 21st and 22nd at the Metropolitan Pavilion, benefiting Susan G. Komen. Guests indulged in shopping, drinking and beauty treatments.

Guests were able to meet Project Runway designer Kara Janx and shop her Fall 2009 collection. Alcohol sponsors included X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Stella Artois and Barefoot Wine. Emmy Award-Winning Make-up artist Eve Pearl provided make-up demos, Rani Spa gave guests complimentary facials and massages and Enzo Milano was on hand for complimentary hair treatments.

The designers were unfamiliar and new to me, and although I didn't end up buying anything I did see some cute wrap sweaters, bib necklaces and feathered headbands. The swag bag was a good one, including Yes to Carrots Hair and Scalp Moisurizing Mud Mask and Fashion Forms glamour kit, (retail value $78) with dress and lingerie tapes, ultimate silicone gel petals and silicone push up pads.

- Kim Weling

Elie Tahari Sample Sale

Nicole Williams' Girl On Top Book Launch Party

Nicole Williams dressed in The Limited

On October 15th, career expert and author Nicole Williams celebrated the launch of her new book Girl On Top, at The Limited pop-up store. Guests, enjoyed champagne and chocolate while shopping the holiday collection at 40% off. I did a ton of shopping the night before during the launch of the pop-up shop, but completely missed seeing the ribbed sleeve cowl sweater that I wanted when I attended the holiday preview so this time I bought it. The event was promoted through Social Diva, so their were many Social Diva subscribers present. Attendees were also able to purchase a copy of Girl On Top ($19.99 list price).

I am glad I was able to meet with Nicole the night before, since she was super-busy during her launch. Nicole is such a delight - energetic, sassy, positive, witty, fun and funny. Her personality shines through in her book, a guide to turning tried-and-true dating rules into career success. Some of the strategies include "Don't Give Away Your Milk for Free", Keep It Brief", "Don't Bash Your Ex", "Play Hard to Get" and "Be Willing to Walk Away". She discusses discusses what to put up with (and what not to) from your boss, to talking more money. She also sprinkles some fashion advice here and there ("Ten Commendments of Style").

I haven't read throught the book yet, but having read a few chapters, I am feeling very motivated. As you read through it, it's as though a friend is giving you advice. It's easy to read, and makes you think about your own situation. I frequently question my own career and by the time I finish this book I think I may feel confident in taking steps in the direction I want to go in rather than staying at a standstill.

Thank you Nicole for writing a book with such a modern and ingenious edge! For those of you who are looking for career advice or change, I encourage you to pick up a copy of Girl On Top.

I am so happy I attended the launch party and to have met Nicole. She is a fabulous host, and I'm sure all attendees were thrilled with the fabulous gift bag they took home, including an asymmetrical clutch from The Limited, eyeshadow duo by Tarte Cosmetics, chic bookmark from Glam, Jurlique moisturizer, Vosges Chocolate and more. The Girl On Top tote carrying all these products each had one of the dating rules on the back, with mine saying "Don't Give Your Milk For Free". To follow Nicole on her book tour go to www.girlontopbook.com/tour. Hopefully you can attend when Nicole visits a city near you!

- Kim Weling

The Limited Pop-Up Store Opening Party

On October 14th, I attended The Limited pop-up store opening in Soho. I’m not sure if everyone had received 40% off that night, but earlier on in the evening they were giving away 40% off cards to guests. They had run out of cards quickly, but since my friend had received one, they had honored the 40% off for my purchase as well. I ended up purchasing everything I had eyed at the holiday preview – Shaker Infinity scarf (can be worn 7 different ways), Forenza chunky sweater, clutch with metal studs and ruffled rose design, zipper clutch, multi-zipper belt and mixed chain belt.

The holiday collection focuses on turtlenecks, the everyday pant, skinny belt, ruffle cardigan and classic long sleeve shirt. There was also a wall of braided, ribbon, chain and bugle bead necklaces. It was easy for shoppers to pick out which one they wanted since they were all numbered.

The pop-up shop was incredibly merchandised and shoppers happily made their purchases. I had the opportunity to meet Nicole Williams, author of Girl On Top, who was hosting a launch party for her new book at the pop up shop the following night. After guests shopped, mingled and enjoyed champagne and hors d'oeuvres, on their way out they received a fabulous tote from The Limited with an asymmetrical flap clutch, necklace graphic tee and Shaker Infinity scarf.

Although The Limited pop-up shop was only open for 4 days, it seemed to be successful among shoppers! I hope The Limited decides to either open up stores in NYC or open up another pop-up shop next season.

- Kim Weling

The Limited Pop-Up Store

I must admit, I haven't shopped at The Limited in a long time, so long that I didn't even realize that there aren't any of The Limited stores in Manhattan (I must be too used to shopping at The Limited in New Jersey malls)! The Limited is returning to New York for 4 days, October 14-17th with a pop-up store in Soho. I attended the Holiday Preview at the end of July (click here to read the full article) and there were a lot of pieces I definitely wanted to add to my wardrobe, including everything from sweaters and blouses to clutch bags, scarves and jewelry. So if you are in the NYC, I recommend checking this out.

The Limited Pop-Up Store
134 Spring Street
Wed Oct 14 - 12 to 5pm
Thurs Oct 15 - 10 to 5pm
Fri Oct 16 - 10 to 8pm
Sat Oct 17 - 10 to 8pm

Spa Week - $50 Spa Treatments

Spa Week just started on Monday and is running through October 18th! Be sure to get rid of all that work stress by enjoying $50 treatments from your favorite spas. Spa Week is a great time to try out a new spa or treatment at a discounted price. If you have never had a facial or a massage, you are missing out! To find a list of participating spas in your area, visit www.spaweek.com

Godiva Chocolatier presents SWEET sponsored by Absolut Vodka, Kahlua and Perrier-Jouët

Mini cannolis from Spigolo

The Sea Grill's vanilla Kahlua crème brûlée parfait with
marcona almond streusel grape salad

Tisserie's Kahlua 3-flavor fashion eclairs

The Oak Room's pomegranate almond shortcake with
crème fraîche panna cotta

Kahlua Bar

Chef Jessica Mogardo's "candied apple" with

rosemary, curry & maple

The Godiva SWEET event on October 10th was by far the best dessert event I've attended. The event was hosted by Food Network's Duff Goldman and benefited Food Bank for New York City and Share Our Strength.

I can honestly say I made my rounds and tried to sample everything. These are my favorites and you can bet I'll be visiting these restaurants for another dessert fix!

• Spigolo's pumpkin cheesecake and goat's milk mascarpone mini cannolis
• The Sea Grill's vanilla Kahlua crème brûlée parfait with marcona almond streusel grape salad by Chef Michael Gabriel
• Tisserie's Kahlua 3-flavor fashion eclairs by Chefs Gustavo Agudelo & Juan Agudelo
• The Oak Room at The Plaza Hotel's pomegranate almond shortcake with Crème fraîche panna cotta by Chef Matthew O'Haver
• eater.com's contest winner Chef Jessica Mogardo's "candied apple" with rosemary, curry & maple.
  This was surprisingly my ultimate favorite. I admit I sampled the "candied apple" at least 4 or 5 times. I loved the sweet & salty mixture.

I also loved desserts from Stanton Social, Telepan, Gotham Bar & Grill, Sweetiepie, Babycakes NYC and Park Avenue Autumn. With all the chocolate, pastries, cookies and brownies, I just wish there was more milk! One station was sampling shots of milk, but I definitely could have used a few glasses and I am not a milk drinker. I did enjoy minis martini from Absolut Vodka, champagne from Perrier-Jouët and drinks at the Kahlua bar. Guests even chose their favorite Godiva chocolates for free. If felt like I was at a Godiva retail store!

I didn't want the night to end since I was in sweets heaven, but I couldn't have possibly eaten anymore. I wonder what they do with all that leftover dessert. I really wish they would give people an empty box at check-in to fill up on favorite pastries!

- Kim Weling