A Classic Renaissance: Dolce and Gabbana 2011 RTW

Dolce and Gabbana has always epitomized Italian style. Here on the 20th anniversary, they have revisited, revised, and revitalized what they do; creating a rich and luxurious style with different textures and materials. From linen to leather, the D&G 2011 RTW collection is a Sicilian spring/summer fantasy.

I love the fisherman sweaters with shorts, drawstring pants, and classic creamy suits that encapsulates the European coast. It is the flawless and effortless cool that is so intriguing.

This is a renaissance for 2011 and I personally can't wait for spring. Bravo!



written by Anicio Michaels

Lady GaGa(damn)

I can remember a time when Madonna wanted to make some noise on the scene and decided to wear a souped up wedding dress and 'boy toy' belt buckle. People were in oooo and ahhhh. But I really need to evaluate how times have changed in the world of fashion shock value. Lady GaGa has entered freakville U.S.A. with the most odd displays of fashion carnage that have graced T.V. and print. I can't help but show this:



By now, this is old hat but I cant help to laugh until I pee a little. After I cleared the tears from my eyes I thought of a few things. I understand that it is getting harder and harder to shock American viewers and I realize that bad press is good press because it keeps you in the public eye. Upon even deeper thought, maybe shes that much of an artist to where, in her eyes, this is an extremely bold try at self expression. Then the realism kicks in. There is such a thing as over compensating for lack of something else. Now, I'm not saying shes not beautiful, because she is. I'm not saying she is talentless, because she is great. What I am saying is...When is the climax? When do we get to see a stripped down Lady GaGa? When do we see more of the real and less of the shock? Makes me wonder.




Only time will tell how far she is going to go with it. I know I'm enjoying the laughs. But I recommend a different approach for Lady GaGa. Lets see more sexy and less tart. More allure and less aloof. More of your soft side with less stuffed animals. ;)

Have something to say? Find me @lifeofgrey

MERRY GIFTMAS:GIFTS FOR HIM

Having trouble finding a great gift for your guy that isn't the typical cold and non personal electronics, have no fear. Here are a few really cool items that will say "I thought about you" and will not be obsolete within a few months because of upgrades.

Christian Audigier Ring $261.80

Adidas Sneaker designed by Porshe $100

Oris Big Crown Telemeter Chronograph $2032

WHAT TIME IS IT: The Perrelt TURBINE Watch

I am a watch man. I don’t know when or why my fascination with watches started, but I love exquisite timepieces. Powerful, bold, and unique timepieces are my obsession and I have found the “Ark of the Covenant” so to speak. Imagine a watch with precision, elegance, machismo, and an ability to captivate immediately. The Perrelet TURBINE is that watch. Gentleman, your attention please…

Perrelet, specialising in the creation of energy through movement since 1777, was impressed by the power of the propulsion of aeroplanes, generated by its key element, the gas turbine. Focusing on this external component, an ingenious rotating device exploiting the force of the air, Perrelet has established a clear connection with its double rotor and the launch of its new collection: TURBINE.

The new TURBINE models are exclusively equipped with the Perrelet P-181 automatic Double Rotor movement. The exceptional design of this collection could have come from the drawing board of a reactor engine designer or a state of the art technology research office. In fact, the TURBINE came to life from the drawings and technical research of our watchmaking engineers, who have defied the laws of gravity.

The double rotor, transformed for the occasion into a turbine fitted with 12 blades made of titanium, covers the whole of the dial and slips beneath an interior black raised area, showing luminous numbers. On the under dial, luminous markers accentuate the optical effect and make the impact of this model all the more sensational.

Respecting the specifications of a fuselage and its aerodynamics, the turbine is housed in a 44mm concave-shaped case, perfectly recreating the original appearance of the reactor. Even the crown, specially worked and integrated in the case, respects these perfect lines. Its functionality is assured by a latch which in the open position allows winding and resetting. On the reverse side, a sapphire crystal reveals the black lacquered bridges, angled and polished. The oscillating weight, whose design is particularly inspired by the aeronautical sector, exhibits the same quality of finish. A black rubber bracelet with its folding clasp completes the ensemble, ensuring its owner complete comfort.

This is a jet propelled adrenaline pumping aeroerotic masterpiece for the time of your life. What a rush.

Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis Rocks Priti Nails at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim

Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis was not only rocking out great makeup looks for the designers of Ed Hardy and True Religion for , Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, she was also showing off her new favorite indulgence, Priti Nails by Kim D’Amato. Her Priti choice of color is “Hardy Water Lily” (how appropriate), a shimmering champagne polish that accented her flawless bronzed makeup and her bright Miami wardrobe. Gomez-Duplessis was a fixture at the shows, The Berit Group private gift suites, and even the runway.

Keep up with this Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis daily on her personal blog at insidethelifeofamakeupartist.blogspot.com and her new passion www.blacktiestiletto.blogspot.com

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MAKEUP ARTIST

MISS SASSY & QUEEN B

BLACK TIE STILETTO

MAKEUP & MARTINI'S:KAT VON D Autograph Eyeliner

written by:Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis



My personal makeup pick this week is BRASS KNUCKLES, a (bright yellow gold) liquid eyeliner from tattoo artist Kat Von D. The Autograph Eyeliner comes in 16 shades and is best used for anyone that loves to wear thin eyeliner or who loves “KAT” eyes. The shimmering colors are very bold, bright, and they dry very fast. The brush is extra slim to help give you a precise inked up line, so you have to be very careful when applying. If not, you may want to leave this makeup item up for the PRO’s. EYEGASM, CALL GIRL, & LOVE METAL will be my next purchase of the Autograph Eyeliner.

www.sephora.com $16.00

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STYLE:Sexy Feet This Summer

written by: Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

If you say "Bridget Sandals" in Jamaica, any fashion connoisseur as well as lovers of sexy leather straps will smile because they are of those in the know. I call it the official footwear for the Caribbean woman. Bridget’s line is delicate but sturdy, stunning but practical; the perfect blend of form and function. Bridget Sandals have been described as "wearable desserts" and things of beauty, so perfect they should be "hanging on a gallery wall or from a socialite's ear lobe". The lush, riotously colored garden is rivaled only by the beauties on display inside — a dizzying array of styles and every shade in the Caribbean color palette. Rows, like cake layers, of sinfully delicious sandals that seem to whisper fun and flirtatious nothings; yet is everything you want to hear.

What I like about Bridget Sandals is her variety of elegant, simple, and easy to wear styles. Her sandals ranging from leather sling backs and ankle wrap thongs to ornamental flip flops. Her delicate detailing is often inspired by nature with floral or leaf-like embellishments available in many colors particularly metallic and colors inspired by the Caribbean. The line boasts an eclectic mix of materials from snakeskin and Nappa leather. Her collection has been featured in numerous fashion shows including all of the Caribbean Fashion Week events, New York Fashion Week, and in the press such as Elle, Vogue, Footwear News and Caribbean Beat Magazines to the local Jamaican Observer and Gleaner.

So when you’re in Jamaica ladies, do what I do and make sure make sure you make Bridget Sandals your first stop…well maybe your second after a French pedicure, because your feet will look like dessert in them.

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MAKEUP ARTIST

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BLACK TIE STILETTO

TO JEAN OR NOT TO JEAN: The Art of Denim

Rock and Republic Jeans

Almost every designer at one time or another has designed a pair of jeans or many jeans. Different cuts, fits, colors, washes, ripped, not ripped, jean shorts (throw them away)and so on. Am I doomed to wear only in fashion jeans? Aren't jeans about who you are? If not they should be. Jeans are a personl style signature. The fit, the color, the wash are all personal preferences on who you want the world to see. Sure, there are times when a dark classic fit jean is appropriate (the office on dress down Friday) or ripped jeans still say I'm cool (a concert), but how about a jean that works no matter what. A pair of jeans that goes from the office, to the ballpark, to a concert, to a bar. As previously stated in most of my fashion post, I am a man or versatile things and the jean should be one of the most versatile items ion your wardrobe. Forget the latest jeans, wash, or scribble scratch written on the backpocket to get people to look at your ass, buy a pair of jeans because they fit. Fit not only your body type, but who you are. Now granted, not all the newest flashiest jeans are for show, there are some trendy jeans that honor the time old tradition of great jeans. So slip on a pair of these perfectly fit jeans from Rock and Republic, Guess, or True Religion and enjoy the denim skin your in.

True Religion Jeans(left) Guess Jeans (right)

FASHION SPOTLIGHT: Caribbean Fashion Week 09

written by: Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

Known for relaxation and beautiful scenery, the Caribbean has always been a fashion inspiration. Now, the islands have become a fashion innovation with its own designers and its own Fashion Week. The Caribbean Fashion Week is the newest summer trend in the industry, and with its hot designers and even hotter setting, it’s the next guilty pleasure in fashion.

The 8th Annual Caribbean Fashion Week was held on June 10-15 2009 at the National Indoor Sports Centre featured many designers showcasing stunning dresses which are now all the rage in the Caribbean. Designer Camesha Powell (Poshe) showed the return of more ladylike dressing: the shapely silhouette with the fitted bodice and full skirt, though the skirts have been shrunk to give it a more modern touch. Poshe is definitely keeping up with the international scene, as Marc Jacobs has also reintroduced the silhouette into his fall collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York.

Lamaica also showed an eye for the revival of ladylike wear with dresses made in cool, comfortable fabrics plus bright hues and patterns from the super short to the ultra long; whilst Gavin Douglas’ silks, buckles and corsets captured the essence of femininity.

Neon colors and eye-popping prints: Deep hues of Caribbean color translated right onto the clothes at Caribbean Fashion Week. The design duo Zadd and Eastman synonymous with ready-to-wear, hand-painted ensembles (pictured above) brought Caribbean colors in unique neon stripes. The Caribbean’s icon of fashion herself, Meiling, characterized her designs with light ‘summery’ fabrics of vibrant colors, including rich reds, oranges and regal purples.

Prints and patterns were also the order of the day with swirls, flowers, stripes and abstracts on loose fitting garments. Nigeria’s design masters Nkwo and Brooklyn’s Rebel boldly stacked different African prints into tiered tent dresses.

Barbados Cassandra Mottley, under her label Sheneil, (pictured above) concentrated solely on swimwear. Her blend of bold colors such as green, red and orange was intriguing. Marsha Stephens included swimwear in her collection, Marsha Julian. Her use of ruffles provided uniqueness to her designs.

No longer love the Caribbean for just the water, the sun, and the cocktails…love the fashion.

photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MAKEUP ARTIST

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BLACK TIE STILETTO

SAMSUNG P3 Player: My IPod Alternative

I know many people are IPod/IPhone crazy, but I'm not an IPod fan persay. No real reason, just not a fan. I do own an MP3 player and with it I need function, function, function. Bang for your buck to me is the Samsung P3. This player is Hot, Hot, Hot. Imagine music, movies, pictures, files, games, maps, calendar and did I mention Bluetooth. The P3 with Bluetooth+EDR lets you take or make calls without taking your cell out. It syncs with your cell and lets you listen to music and if a call comes through mutes the music and allows you to answer your phone through the player, or make calls. Yeah, I know that is what the IPhone does, but with the IPhone you have to use ITunes. I get music anywhere and put it on my player as well as DIVX movies. For those like me who prefer not to ITunes, SAMSUNG.

Samsung P3 16GB $199.99

Juliette Has A Gun And A Very Powerful Smell

written by:Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

I was just turned on to the great collection “Juliette Has a Gun,” a perfume collection from Romano Ricci, great-grandson of famed couturier Nina Ricci. I have not gotten myself this collection just yet…but I am sure when I do, I will find a favorite out of these decadent perfumes. As I type this, I can smell the rose and vanilla scents in my hair and I feel like I should be wearing a pair of sexy Christian Dior black leather boots. Inspired by one of Shakespeare’s most-beloved heroines, Romano’s first two scents in the collection -Lady Vengeance and Miss Charming-were created with the assistance of master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian. Citizen Queen, the new scent, I think will be my first purchase.

Elegant yet bristling with wild, thorny rose, Lady Vengeance hides its claws under velvety rose petals, soft patchouli and seductive vanilla. Sly and charming under her rosy exterior, Lady Vengeance lays waste to the non-believers in the seductive powers of rose by wrapping her legs around earthy patchouli and dipping her fingers in the time honored man slayer of golden vanilla, a combination that’s impossible to deny. Resistance is futile! Lady Vengeance top notes are Bulgarian rose, vanilla, patchouli.

Miss Charming bats her eyelashes with innocence and virginal sweetness, a gentle rose scent sweetened with a burst of wild fruits resulting in a wispy and flirty perfume that brightens any occasion. I bet your friends and coworkers will stand a little closer when you wear this, smile a little more and chat a little longer. It might be your sparkling wit and scintillating conversation, suspect it’s just Miss Charming working her sweet, sweet magic. Miss Charming notes are Moroccan rose, musk, wild fruits.

Juliette had a gun, now it also has a crown. Citizen Queen the third weapon in this hip series of rose fragrances is the most powerful one yet. Blended with amber and patchouli, the dark, leathery rose at the center of the composition takes no prisoners. Violet and iris soften the striking mix, adding a charming retro quality to the perfume. Veiled by this delicately powdery accord, the rose is mysterious, elusive, endlessly intriguing. Citizen Queen main notes are Leather, Bulgarian Rose, Iris, Amber, Immortal flowers, Labdanum.

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MAKEUP ARTIST

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A Beauty Product to Help With Beauty Sleep

written by: Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

Have you heard the saying “I am getting my beauty sleep, but what about getting beauty products to improve sleep?”
Murad, the El Segundo, Calif.-based skin care brand that’s helped bring ingredients such as pomegranate to consumers’ attention, is carving out a niche for beauty solutions to the nightmare of no sleep. A duo of products launching next month, Sleep Reform Serum at $97 for a 1 oz. and Sleep Reform Dietary Supplements at $49.50 for 60 tablets, is Murad’s introduction to the snooze business, which could eventually expand to an array of recommended sleep remedies within Murad’s skin care portfolio.

I see it in my clients’ faces daily, sleep seems like a major problem. I think this is going to be a popular product because sleep is something that everyone doesn’t get or get enough of.
The Sleep Reform products rely upon what Murad has dubbed a Repair Enhancing Matrix with Gama-aminobyteric Acid (GABA), Methyl sulfonmethane (MSM) and vitamin C intended to amplify the depth and duration of sleep. Melatonin in the products aim to aid the skin’s sleep cycle to promote its ability to mend itself, while Oligopeptide-1 is meant to firm the skin, and Tocopheryl Acetate encourages healing. The serum is supposed to be applied before the user goes to bed.

The Sleep Reform products will be sold in roughly 1,500 doors by the second quarter of 2009, including Sephora and Ulta.

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MAKEUP ARTIST

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Bijules by Designer Jules Kim

written by: Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

Jules Kim designs jewelry to ruffle your feathers. Biijulesis the most creative unique jewelry and accessory line I have personally seen. From fingernail rings to necklaces made of hand-dyed hair, the pieces combine innovation with intellectual inspiration. And her one finger bar ring, which stretches across four fingers, is the fanciest variation on a brass knuckle we’ve ever seen. Biijules NYC has a cult following because it’s known for twisting ideas (like crafting earrings out of hair extensions) and creating underground trends.

So who is the Bijules woman , she is one who loves to live and express herself in a very personal way. Maybe she wakes and feels frisky, puts on a set of gold nail rings, and goes out to kill it. Or maybe she is feeling super subtle and slips on a pair of the new Arsenic & Old Lace high-waisted panties with gold suspenders. And when she calmly rides in the elevator up to work, she quickly makes the men writhe next to her, wondering where the gold chains on her shoulders are coming from, and where they are going. />

Jules Kim embraced her street and commercial status, as everyone from Gwen Stefani to Janet Jackson Santogold, M.I.A., Spankrock, Katy Perry and Rihanna is rocking her pieces. I think I can be a part time Biijules woman…the bling out nail is a must have.

INSIDE THE LIFE OF A MAKEUP ARTIST

MISS SASSY & QUEEN B

BLACK TIE STILETTO