Aquilano Rimondi Fashion For Women

Aquilano Rimondi Fashion For Women

MOLTO-ITALIANO

Aquilano Rimondi Fashion For Women

Meet the next generation of Milanese ready-to-wear stars— Tomniaso Aquilano and Roberto
Rimondi.

PICASSO, JAPANESE MASKS, VENETIAN HAR FASHION FOR WOMEN- lequinsand Vellmis La Stratta—the mad mash-up of references in Aquilano. Rimondi's Spring Fashion collection 2013 tells a dizzvingly decadent tale, one that revolves around the label's two central characters— Tommaso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi. Since 199K when the duo first met at Max Mara, they have been rising up the fashion ranks together. In 2004 they founded 6267, and by 2008, following a stint at luxury knitwear label Malo, they became creative directors at Gianfranco Ferre. That same year they launched Aquilano Rimondi. Known for their strong architectural shapes and incredible attention to detail, these Italian designers embrace maximalism with such a natural ease that one assumes "dazzle" is part of their DNA. Flying solo at their Spring 2013 runk show a t Holt  Renfrew's Toronto flagship store in December. Aquilano shared some good-natured ribbing about his other half while discussing the art of contemporary design fashion for women.

SARAH CASSELMAN

 

Easter Poem

If you are a Christian, the words in this poem by Joanna Fuchs titled “Easter Joy” are full of hope and faith. From my family to yours…Happy Easter!

Easter Joy

Jesus came to earth,

To show us how to live,

How to put others first,

How to love and how to give.

Then He set about His work,

That God sent Him to do;

He took our punishment on Himself;

He made us clean and new.

He could have saved Himself,

Calling angels from above,

But He chose to pay our price for sin;

He paid it out of love.

Our Lord died on Good Friday,

But the cross did not destroy

His resurrection on Easter morn

That fills our hearts with joy.

Now we know our earthly death,

Like His, is just a rest.

We'll be forever with Him

In heaven, where life is best.

So we live our lives for Jesus,

Think of Him in all we do.

Thank you Savior; Thank you Lord.

Help us love like you!

By Joanna Fuchs

Blessings,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Swarovski Crystallized Style Spectrum

Swarovski Crystallized Style

From futuristic metallics to retro references. S/S 13 is another season of chic contrasts - and we don't even mean the clothes. Jewellery's inspirations range far and wide, and nowhere is this better seen than at Swarovski Crystallized.

Swarovski Crystallized Style

Curating exquisite jewellery from around 50 of the world's most renowned designers and exciting up-and-comcrs, the collection features sparkling Swarovski Elements to reflect fashion's biggest trends. In the Designer Collection, Anton Heunis' opulent, vintage-style Desert Rose necklace echoes the catwalks' blossoming-again affair with florals, while Ben-Amun's Greek Goddess pieces dazzle against the new whites. The collection includes the sweetly feminine Treasure Chest bracelet, as well as the Golden Grace earrings - perfect for easy evening glamour. With other designs from Jean Paul
Gaultier, Mawi London, Kenneth Jay Lane and more nodding to trends as diverse as boho-chic and neon, Swarovski Crystallized is the ultimate destination for this season's style magpies.

FRENCH ACCENTS IN FASHION STYLE

HEDI SLIMANE FRENCH ACCENTS IN FASHION STYLE

An unmistakable note of Parisian chic defined the best of spring's collections 

By Avril Mair

FRENCH ACCENTS IN FASHION STYLE, fashion style, Hedi Slimane

Three words sum up S/S 13: style, substance and   seduction. You could   thank Hedi Slimane for that. When the menswear fashion designer was appointed creative director at the house of Yves Saint Laurent, the fashion world anticipated more of his signature minimalism. Instead, he looked back at the labels incredible archives from the 1970s fashion trends - the skinny pants, the tuxedo jackets, the sheer blouses... and then gave it all a decadent rock 'n' roll twist. The critics debated, but the buyers were convinced: these are clothes that women will want to wear.

Hedi Simane wasn't the only designer embracing a certain Parisian glamour this season. You can
also witness it in the work of Raf Simons, whose triumphant Dior ready-to-wear debut saw the house's femininity electrified by a daring new modem ism. The codes are still there, of course - the refined tailoring, the Bar jacket, the full-skirted finale - but with a sleek and disciplined remix. A bell-shaped tux dress worn over shorts, a lean suit accessorised by a blood-red scarftied at the neck: this is not minimalism as such, but these certainly are versatile, desirable and softly feminine clothes.
'The foundation of Dior is a reaction to restrictions,' says Simons. 'I wanted to do that too'.

This pragmatism- accompanied by a considered sensuality- was a theme that echoed throughout the Paris shows. Its no accident that Le Smoking, created by Monsieur Saint Laurent and immortalised by Helmut Newton (which should tell youeverything about its powerful, androgynous allure), was found on the catwalk at Balmain and Lanvin, belted and sharp-shnuldered or Cropped and monochromatic; but always offering a little skin. A similar kind of tux dressing also showed up at Celine and Givenchy, stripped back to the bare bones of desire. Lanvin's Alber Elbaz calls it 'deconstructed classicism', and its spirit saw designers take on other iconic pieces: the pencil skirt, the
pleat-front trousers and the pussy-bow blouse, another YSL standard.

FRENCH ACCENTS IN FASHION STYLE, fashion style, Hedi Slimane

Fashion style

"Suggestion is seduction.' according to Maria Grazia   Chiuri  and   Pierpaolo   Piccioli, whose
Valentino show had the blouse as its centrepiece, contrasting puritanical white collars and cuffs with
a delicious undercurrent of Bellc de Jour kink in sheer chiffon or nude, red and black lingerie-inspired leather. It is this spirit that they bring lo the house - a subtle subversiveness that is key to spring/summer 2013.

Despite the seductive pull of new trends, the strongest wardrobe style story this fashion season is that of timeless shapes reworked with an easy, modern edge. Consider Balmains high-waist evening trousers, unexpectedly but impeccably tailored in black leather and worn with a simple, single-sole heel. Or look at Roland Mouret's little black dress, where white flashes curve round the body in a flattering geometry. There are couture-like pencil skirts at Givenchy, deliriously split up the thigh; and leather-trimmed wool jackets at Chanel, cropped short and sweet. Whoever said you can't improve on a classic surely lied. Just look to Paris for proof of fashion style.

Fendi Mamma Baguette bag

Fendi Mamma Baguette bag

GOLD RUSH

Fashions first. If bag is resurrected with a Kuwait exclusive

To mark the opening of its new Kuwait store in The Avenues, Fendi has produced a limited
edition Mamma Baguette bag. Laden with logos, snakeskin, sequins and gold hardware, this exclusive edition has its target firmly in its sights. Just 25 numbered pieces will be available
when the store opens in September. Fendi's iconic Baguette bag series is undergoing something of a revival this year as it marks its 15-ycar anniversary. Hailed as the style that kick-started the 'It' bag
phenomenon, Fendi is reissuing six of the most popular designs this month. Meanwhile, actress and devotee Sarah Jessica Parker has contributed to Fendi Baguette, the book. ■

Fendi Mamma Baguette. Dhs l6.300(KWD1.240)

Fendi Mamma Baguette bag

Harvard Article

My sincere appreciation is given to the staff at Harvard Business School (HBS) for all of their encouragement and well wishes since becoming Mrs. International 2012. I am also thrilled to be able to share with you a copy of the article “Crowning Achievement” published in the HBS Alumni Bulletin.

How exciting it is to blend a message of the Mrs. International Pageant with arguably one of the most reputable educational institutions in the world! And, to be able share the message of the Phoenix Society at the same time! I hope you will enjoy the read.

Warm Regards,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Arkansas Children's Hospital

During a recent trip to Little Rock, Arkansas, I was delighted to spend several hours at the Arkansas Children’s Hospital at Camp Wannaplay.  This hospital is dedicated to the needs of children who need top notch medical care.  Even though the doctors and nurses take their jobs seriously, they haven’t forgotten about the children’s need for fun and distraction.  Camp Wannaplay is directed by a dedicated Recreation Specialist who ensures that the children on her floor have a fun variety of activities rangeing from crafts to the ever-popular video games.

During my visit the specialist prepare an activity called no-snow globes.  This clever leader re-purposed baby food jars by gluing a fun plastic action figure to the inside of the lid and then filled the jar with water and glitter.  Once the lid was screwed back on the jar acted just like a snow globe.    You can see that I had to make one too!

Always focused on queenly activities, I brought a supply of puffy paper crowns and princess stickers just in case a little girl needed a smile.  I made one crown that featured flowers and Princess Peach in honor of one little girl’s favorite character from Mario Cart, another fun feature of the play area. 

If I had a child with a medical issue I would feel comfortable putting them in the capable hands of the staff at AR Children’s Hospital.  The bright colors, cheerful staff and the creative therapies work together to make it a comfortable place for healing. 

XO,

Krista Wanous

Miss International 2012 

Cinderella's Closet

Not only have I had a busy year as Miss Teen International 2012, but I have also had a busy year as a senior in high school! This year has been filled with wonderful memories and exciting experiences. One event that I am especially looking forward to is our Senior Prom! We have all had so much fun making plans for the theme and decoration. Of course, my absolute favorite part was picking out my dress. I had such a blast trying on dresses at The Competitive Image with Joey Retherford, the official wardrobe sponsor of the Miss Teen International pageant. 

As I tried on all of the beautiful gowns, it occurred to me that not every girl will be able to experience the joy of shopping for a prom dress and feeling special on her big night. Fortunately, there are many organizations whose mission is to make it possible for every girl to feel like a princess on her prom night.

One such organization is Cinderella’s Closet. Cinderella’s Closet provides prom and formal dresses to girls who cannot afford to purchase a dress. They accept gently worn formal dresses, both short and long. Cinderella’s Closet visits cities for one weekend at a time during “prom season”. Although Cinderella’s Closet is based out of the Kentucky area, they serve girls nationwide. 

Several girls from my school were able to choose a prom dress from Cinderella’s Closet. My mom always reminds me of this thought, “To whom much are given, much is expected.” So many times, pageant, prom, and homecoming dresses end up in the back of our closets collecting dust. Next time you decide to clean out, please donate some of your wardrobe to help girls feel their absolute best on their special night! If you choose to donate to Cinderella’s Closet, you can mail your dresses to:

Cinderella’s Closet

Immanuel United Methodist Church

2551 Dixie Highway

Lakeside Park, KY 41017

Caroline Crowley

BOGNER SPRING/SUMMER 2013

BOGNER SPRING/SUMMER 2013

Beautiful spring summer fashion collection from Bogner.

 

Spring summer fashion collection from Bogner.

Duck Dynasty Comes to Dothan

It is often said that, “Southern is a frame of mind.” Living in the South is a lifestyle that just cannot be compared to others. I have noticed throughout my travels that even though sometimes I feel so busy and maybe even a little overwhelmed, here in the South, we are accustomed to a much slower pace of life. Fortunately, our slower way of life has a way of teaching us what truly matters: faith, family, and……DUCKS! I know what you have to be thinking….ducks?! Well, if you did not know, another southern tradition comes in the form of hunting. Although it is a controversial subject that I most definitely do not have the answer to, one southern family became millionaires because of their love of hunting water fowl.

Meet the Robertson family! Phil Robertson founded the Duck Commander brand after he discovered his knack for making duck calls. Along with his sons, family members, and friends, Phil’s duck calls are now the basis of a multi-million dollar company. Since founding the company, A&E began following the family in a series known as “Duck Dynasty”, which received the highest ratings of any show ever aired on the network. Duck Dynasty, which happens to be my favorite show, is a series that not only showcases the family’s duck hunting skills, but also teaches viewers about the things that truly matter…faith and family!

The Dothan Rescue Mission presented “A Night Out With the Duckmen” as their annual fundraiser. Phil, Willie, Jase, and “Uncle Si” Robertson came to the Dothan Civic Center! You can only imagine how excited I was. The show sold out in twenty minutes during the ticket sales in early October. My brother and I were so thrilled to find our tickets in our stockings at Christmas, and we had been looking forward to the show ever since. The “Duckmen” were definitely a hit!

They presented an inspirational message about the importance of staying true to oneself and most importantly, giving all the praise to the Lord, no matter what level of success one achieves. After the show, the audience was invited to ask the cast questions about the show. When an audience member asked what Miss Kay’s favorite thing to cook was, Miss Kay surprised us all when she walked out from behind the curtains! Tonight was definitely a night I will never forget. I am so blessed to have had this experience.

Caroline Crowley

Michael Kors spring summer fashion collection

Michael Kors spring summer fashion collection

Michael Kors spring summer fashion collection

 

Beautiful Michael Kors spring summer fashion collection

Candice Swanepoel fashion models

Candice Swanepoel 

Fashion model  Candice Swanepoel  for Spanish Vogue, April 2013
Photographed by Mariano Vivanco

Candice Swanepoel, candice swanepoel pics, fashion models

FOX 9 News Skating

I was asked by the St. Paul Figure Skating Club (the club for which I represented for many years) to show up for a taping of FOX 9 News with Todd Walker at the Wells Fargo Rink located next to Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul, MN. This ice rink is simply adorable, as it is nestled between the tall buildings and faces the sparkling Rice Park, the historic St. Paul Hotel and elegant Ordway Theater.

”Elf” was playing at the Ordway

The snow was falling in big thick flakes from the sky, and it covered the ice surface faster than the resurfacing machine and shovels could keep up, which made skating itself a little sticky. Regardless, we were able to share our messages with the viewing audience and I want to thank Todd for including the St. Paul Figure Skating Club, its skaters, and me as Mrs. International in the piece.

Long time skating friend and her daughter

Snow falling!

Todd preps me for the interview 

Melissa from the St. Paul FSC

My interview, which highlighted the International Pageant affiliation with the “Go Red” message and skating as a heart healthy activity, was featured on FOX 9 and here are a few photos from this wonderful exposure.

Warm Wishes,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Minnesota International Pageant

Oh the effort that goes into a state pageant! On Friday and Saturday, March 15th and 16th, it was time to crown a new Mrs., Miss, and Teen Minnesota International 2013. For me, the weekend was really about focusing on the ladies competing and making certain they had the best experience possible. And my “Rock Star” husband Joseph maybe did too good of a job assuring the husbands enjoyed themselves.

Admittedly, this would have been a far more emotional event if I were not able to continue my reign as Mrs. International 2012, with so many more appearances to attend and countries to see! Regardless, I am now a “former” in the state of Minnesota, and I had the privilege of being the first to welcome the beautiful Andrea Bennett Xiong to the sisterhood of Mrs. Minnesota International titleholders as I assisted her fabulous husband Tou with placing the crown on her head!

I want to wish each of the ladies who challenged themselves to compete in the pageant this year my sincere congratulations, as you each did an outstanding job of representing yourselves, your families, your communities, and most importantly the causes for which you so eloquently spoke. I told you I was proud of each of you. I meant it then…and I mean it now…regardless of there being only one titleholder.

It is also so very fun to be able to welcome the new Miss Teen Minnesota International – Megan Muehlberg and Miss Minnesota International – Charity Bess to our pageant family. I hope for each of you a year filled with moments that you will cherish forever both individually and together as the 2013 queens.

Please enjoy a variety of photos from a most amazing Minnesota International Pageant:

Registration on Friday afternoon!

Mr. and Mrs. joined us for a bite to eat and time together!

2012 Minnesota Queens…MMXII forever!

Ladies in their on-stage interview outfits!

Husbands looking so very handsome!

Meet & Greet time prior to the show!

Mrs. Minnesota 2013 with Mrs. Minnesota formers

My very best wishes to all of you,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012