Florida Agenda

By ERIC CHRISTIAN

The biggest HIV Fundraiser is upon us and the dress code is clear. Wear White. Now luckily being in South Florida, the rules on white clothes really don’ t apply, we can wear whi

te anything after Labor Day! For that reason alone, if you do get a new outfit, you will definitely have call to wear it again and again.

So as you get yourself ready for the party, remember at the White Party anything goes! Also with nearly a week of events, you can really take your style strides out more often.

A lot of the parties are beach based, so invest is some nice shorts, pants and a light short-sleeved good quality cotton or linen shirt. Fabric is key, so go for light weight. You will be partying, dancing drinking and enjoying South Florida at its best so let your clothes enhance you, not get drenched in sweat!

For the real fashionistas out there that want to take this white opportunity to another level, then opt for a white suit, complete with some cool and outrageous accessories!

Remember the White Party is a celebration of community for a crucial cause, so party, donate and look stylish while doing it!

By ERIC CHRISTIAN

As Fall and soon to be Winter collections hit the stores this season, designers are definitely having a lot of fun with menswear and accessories. This season’s trend seems to be all about leather. From leather jackets, to leather boots, and daring leather accessories, it’s all about that sumptuous fabric that has an edge.

Everyone using leather this season wants to make a statement, and so should you!

So take a look at our top picks and invest in some new leather. Remember the feel, the smell and the style. Leather is timeless, classic and goes with everything.
Everyone Loves a bad boy in leather!

By ERIC CHRISTIAN

Just when you thought the iconic house of Versace was becoming obsolete, you are soon to be in for a rude awakening! A big, loud and brash rude awakening that is. The wait to see and purchase items from the Versace for H&M collection is soon to be over. This is indeed the latest collaboration that is stirring all the buzz in the retail and fashion world!

For the fashion junkies that are familiar with the legendary fashion house, expect bright prints, bold colors, and reinterpretations of the iconic blazers, leather jackets, and pants. Plus, a first for the H&M designer collaborations, expect a home-ware collection too, including pillows and a hot beaded bedspread!

Versace’s men’s collection for H&M is a mix of sleek tailoring and pieces

with bold, eye catching patterns. Suit jackets and trousers come in either black, or pink, while a black tuxedo jacket has metallic tip trims on its pockets, and shirts have metallic wing-tips on the collars. Versace’s palm prints are used on t-shirts, as well as on thin-knit cashmere sweaters, while print is also used on velvet bombers, jeans, and even underwear. There is also a mix of classic pink and turquoise button down shirts that have matching tailored, skinny pants. Furthermore there is a striking range of black and white geometric printed shirts, tops and t-shirts.

There’s leather in the men’s collection too, with a quilted leather jacket trimmed with gold studs in the Versace classical Greek pattern, which is repeated down the sides of black cotton shorts and a rolled-sleeve t-shirt. As we ll as a stunning black top coat with leather sleeves and collar. Accessories include embellished beanies and patterned caps, embellished or print scarfs, as well as hi-top sneakers, brazen jewels and dress shoes.

The US and Canada will release the collection on November 19 in select stores. I got word that Palm Beach will definitely be one of them releasing the collection on November 17! The collection will be available in about 300 stores worldwide. I urge all you fashionistas that want a piece of this excitement to be at the stores at least two hours before they open!

The price point for the collection is not as low as what we saw with Missoni for Target. You will still be looking at shelling out over $200 for leather pieces. T-shirts are coming in between $25 and $65 with jackets around $150. Still, when you consider a leather Versace jacket is likely to cost over $2,000, you are still grabbing a bargain!

For fashion, luxury personal shopping, styling, closet editing, and shopping tours, contact Eric Christian at eric@styleconciergemiami.com or visit the website at www.styleconciergemiami.com.

By Eric Christian

The fall and winter season is just around the corner.  While many of us in Florida and warmer sections of the country are still enjoying swimsuits, the beach and the sun, those in cooler climes are contemplating and beginning to prepare their wardrobes for the seasons ahead. Sooner or later, the temperature will drop, and with it will come heavier clothing needs. Fortunately, fall and winter fashions are available for purchase in stores now.

So what better time for the Style Concierge to tell you the fall/winter trends for men this season?

Velvet Hits the Runways
Velvet has been around for quite some time now. It’s considered very classic and timeless if worn correctly. Velvet should never be worn over velvet but with denim, trousers, and khakis. It’s now come back as a “new” trend for the fall. It’s most commonly seen in burgundy, black, navy blue, and chocolate.  It’s seen this season in runway shows from many designers including Lanvin, Gucci, Dsquared2, Dolce & Gabbana, and Etro.

Military Influence is Back Again!
For those of you who don’t like it, guess what? Seems as if it’s here to stay! Channel your inner sergeant when you stock your fall and winter wardrobe this year – from army green, mocha, and brown to waist and double-breasted trench coats that flatter the body and hide any embarrassing flaws during the cold winter months. Designers such as Alexander McQueen, Neil Barrett, Versace,and Burberry Prorsum continue to keep this trend alive this fall/ winter 2011/2012 season.

It’s All About Shearling
According to Women’s Wear Daily, the outerwear trend for fall/winter 2011 is shearling.
This season, many designers such as Burberry Prorsum, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Rick Owens, Balmain, and Boss Black created their key jackets, coats, and blazers using this material that has become popular again.

I am certainly excited this fall/ winter season to see what everyone will be wearing. Any of these styles can be found in all major department stores.  For those of you that are on a budget, select look-alike styles at stores like Zara, Gap, Banana Republic, Top Shop, and H&M stores.

Ralph Lauren Purple Label Shearling Jacket

For styling, luxury personal shopping, editorial and shopping tours, contact fashion & style expert Eric Christian at eric@styleconciergemiami.com and online at www.styleconciergemiami.com

Dolce & Gabanna is synonymous with high style and classic European flair in the fashion world. The Italian fashion house is known for its extremely fashionable and in-your-face menswear. The name is praised and applauded everywhere you go. Sure enough, for their Fall/Winter 2011 menswear runway collection, the duo did not disappoint.

You can always count on Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana to give you haute, sexy, masculine looks with a twist of fun and ruggedness. This year, as the models strutted down the runway, it kind of seemed as if there were looks and styles being presented from the past 20 years. There were looks for everyone in that show: The glamorous club guy in v.i.p., the biker, the street kid, the gangster and the man on Wall Street. There were wide-leg trousers, no-pleat pants and wide lapels on the jackets reminiscent of the 80′s. There were also hints of the 90′s and today with the fitted Bryan Ferry t-shirts, bleached, acid washed jeans, suspenders, cargos and heavysoled boots. It also appeared the designers incorporated the use of many vintage and olden-days style – one of them being braces (known to many of us today as “suspenders”) and the dropped crotch pant that added swag and flair to the collection.

There were also accessories that were key pieces in the collection, from black framed geek shades to the fedoras made of canvas and suede. In terms of the color palette of the designs, there were less monochromatic colors and more of grays, reds, burgundies and, of course, black. As far as texture, there was wool, especially in the coats and some pants, velvet and sequins in the suiting, and cotton in the shirts and pants.

As you can see, the two designers, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, got our attention for the Fall/Winter 2010/2011 Menswear collection. And, they make us wait impatiently until the next season comes out to see what other surprises they have prepared for us. The collection can be found at any Dolce and Gabbana boutique nationwide, or via the web at www.dolcegabbana.com.

Entrepreneur Series Profiles for The Florida Agenda Over the month of August, we will be highlighting entrepreneurs of the community
and getting their take on building a successful business within the community.

Photo: Style Concierge with Sauvage Director Victoria Matveeva and Maria Lankina

How long have you been here? What brought you to South Florida?
I’m a native Floridian. I have been here all my life!! I love it and enjoy every minute of it!

Please tell Agenda readers about your business.
This service is for the individual who can afford luxury in their lifestyle but doesn’t have the time or simply doesn’t enjoy shopping at all. This service is also for the individual who feels they are not that stylish or fashion savvy and trusts the eye of another individual whom they admire and specializes in the field of fashion and personal shopping. Style Concierge also helps privileged individuals and companies in the areas of image consulting, styling for special occasions, events and shopping tours. Many people are unfamiliar with shopping tours. A shopping tour with Style Concierge is geared towards families and individuals who have a taste for luxury and are not from the South Florida area, are new to the area, or have been here for years and are not familiar with some of the most “exclusive” shopping malls, private boutiques and vintage stores. We set up private shopping for some of our clients, as well.

How long have you had your business and how is it going?
I have had the business for about 10 months now and it’s going great! I have been doing it here and there throughout the years working in luxury retail stores.

What niche did you feel was missing, that made you start your business?
I just felt like being a stylist and personal shopper is something that is very underground and you don’t hear about it a lot on the surface like for example, being a nurse, salesman, doctor, etc. There are a lot of questions people ask me about this business and how to break into it. In fact, before I started I had a book of questions. Many people, especially wealthy and upper class individuals, need a personal shopper and stylist just as well as they need an assistant, housekeeper or nanny. It’s an image and lifestyle to portray that has a lot to do with time.

How does your business benefit the community?
I make people feel beautiful, happy and confident. Confidence in yourself and what you do is a major player in “success.”  Style Concierge is a role model to the community in the areas of image, health and beauty.  We want to mimic people that at least look like they are beautiful and living a great, luxurious life. At the end of the day, I am making someone else’s life a little easier.

What advantages do you feel there are having a business within the gay community?
The gay community brings a lot of energy and ideas to my kind of work. They are fashion and entertainment! They display a lot of charisma and character, which is important in my line of work. Whether you are seeing a lesbian, a gay boy, a transgender or female impersonator, they are all inspiring! If you look and pay attention, you can learn a lot.

What disadvantages do you feel there are?
There are no disadvantages! In any community, it’s all about hard work, tenacity and who you know.

How would you identify your management approach? Iron Fist or more Flexible? What do you see as the advantages to your approach?
When it comes to building business, keeping business, customer service and clients, it’s an Iron Fist! When it comes to scheduling, looks, dates and times, I’m a little more flexible. You’ll find in this business that you have to know who and what you are dealing with. There are so many angles.

What do you feel about the idea that the summer season is slow? How do you combat this pressure?
Summer is slow? My business is steady.  It’s all about customer service and taking care of your clients. They will work with you all the time! I normally save a lot, even when I’m making a lot of money, so that there is a nice cushion for slow times.

How do you think the community as a whole responds to your business?
For those that are accustomed to having a luxury lifestyle and are jet-setters, they love it and need it! People love new things, fashion and exclusivity. For those that aren’t familiar with this line of work, they wonder either how to do it or how does he actually make money

? Some people probably don’t care!

In your lifetime how do you feel the gay community has changed?
I see that they are starting to understand that they do get old and life isn’t all about fun, parties and dating! They are starting to take their lives and careers more seriously!

Do you see a positive change in attitudes towards the gay community?
Yes. We are all equal.

Do you believe there is credence to the idea a business geared towards the gay market is cutting out a major section of the wider community?
Yes and no. It’s about individual comfort.

How do you minimize that effect?
Advertising in all publications.

What plans do you have for the future?
To grow and nurture Style Concierge, Inc.

If you had an open check book, what business would you go into next?
A charity for kids who are gifted in the areas of fashion, music, entertainment and the arts, but just don’t know how to get the exposure they need or just don’t have the means to get involved. A fashion-only magazine. A monthly publication showcasing only editorial and accessories. H

Style Concierge is a luxury personal shopping, styling, image consulting, shopping tour and alterations agency for the discerning individual who enjoys and needs all things fashion, beauty, confidence and style. Eric Christian can be reached via email at eric@styleconciergemiami.com and online at www.styleconciergemiami.com

Photo: Diesel Thavar 0882r skinny $325 • store.diesel.com>>

By ERIC CHRISTIAN

Some say the “skinny jean” was inspired by the rock-n-roll elite, such as The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, in the 1970′s. When the 1980′s came around, the trend had become popular among both men and women. Many ask, “Who is to credit the now-so-fashionable skinny jean trend?” Many argue women; many argue and blame men. The truth is, it was the fame and popularity of famous MALE rock bands that revolutionized

the trend. Can many of you recall Mick Jagger or Steven Tyler of Aerosmith gyrating across the stage of sold out shows? The original source of skinny jeans starts back in the 50′s, when jeans symbolized the passion of youth and rebels which progressed through the 80′s. Celebrities always had a huge effect on their fans, so the way they dressed was constantly causing their fans to mimic them. Marlon Brando, James Dean and lots of other idols are included as the ultimate examples of this trend.

7 For All Mankind slimmy black white jeans •

$189 www.7forallmankind.com>>

<<<Guess Kurt skinny jean $90 • shop.guess.com

The “skinny jean” trend faded away in the 90′s when popular bands began to wear leather pants and form-fitted jeans. Skinny jeans seemed like a flash from the past when they appeared in stores a few years ago. They seemed more suited to women. Today, sales of men’s skinny jeans are going strong, and mass brands like Gap and Levi’s are getting in on the action. As soon as the 21st century approached, companies and brands, such as Seven For All Mankind, Stitch’s, Diesel, and Rock & Republic, jumped in on the bandwagon and began to mass produce, market and widely advertise. Rock & Republic says sales of its men’s skinny denim over the past several months rose 26% over last year’s figures.  In turn, this has caused the rebirth of the “skinny jean.” There are no signs of this so called “trend” slowing down, I must add. With actors and pop stars like Zac Efron, Justin Bieber, Lil Wayne, Justin Timberlake and Kanye West (to name a few) wearing skinny jeans, they have not only become popular all over again, but this cult following has given permission for style-conscious young men to wear them. After all, and because of this, the “skinny jean” is not so much associated with the term “gay” as it was in the past.

By Alex Vaughn

When one wants to create a BOLD look, it’s all about the accessories. You can be wearing a simple t-shirt and a pair of jeans, but the accessory, whether it’s a watch, sunglasses, a bracelet or a ring, never goes unnoticed. You are not considered totally dressed and ready-to-go unless you are wearing at least one accessory of your choice. Many consider it a “naked” feeling. Many designers this season are using the “accessory” as the focal point of their runway shows.  For John Galliano’s Men Spring 2011 collection, it was all about the beaded and feathered necklaces and rosaries. For Ann Demeulemeester’s Spring 2011 Men’s collection, it was all about the cuff bracelets and ribbon lapels. Many of you may not be aware, but in the fashion world, hair and make-up are very well considered an accessory, as well. This season there are a slew of designers creating eye-catching pieces, but it’s the designs of Eddie Borgo and Pamela Love that have everybody talking.

Eddie Borgo’s designs are a mix of traditional American costume jewelry, rock-n-roll and the streets of the city that never sleeps, New York! His designs bring new energy and modern point-of-view to these themes, fusing high-end and street in his collections. His designs can be found at www.eddieborgo.com and Jeffrey’s New York.

Pamela Love draws her inspiration from many of her favorite artists, including Joseph Cornell, Lee Bontecou, Hieronymous Bosch, Alejandro Jodorowsky and Francesco Clemente. Her creativity is further fueled by her passion for nature and science, as well as astronomy, astrology, religion, magic and folk jewelry. Her deep connection to the American Southwest also continues to be a driving inspiration behind her artistry and craft. Her designs can be found at www.pamelalovenyc.com and The Webster

and Alchemist, Miami Beach.

For styling, luxury personal shopping, editorial and shopping tours, contact fashion & style expert Eric Christian at eric@styleconciergemiami.com and online at www.styleconciergemiami.com

Eddie Borgo labrodite padlock necklace • price upon request

Eddie Borgo cone bracelet available in gold • $600

Eddie Borgo cone bracelet available in gunmetal • $600

Eddie Borgo pavé cone bracelet • $1000

Pamela Love bone resin tribal spike cuff • $195

Pamela Love medium tribal spike necklace • $700

Pamela Love small crow skull • $875

Pamela Love triangle ring • $150

By ERIC CHRISTIAN

Dsquared’s 2011 Spring and Summer collection was a blast from the past with reminiscences of the 1980′s and early 90′s hit “Miami Vice”. We all know it wouldn’t be Dsqu ared without

a mix of color, prep and hot models with sex appeal.

Celebrities, socialites and the who’s who in the world watched as handsome, male models strutted down the runway in blazers and jackets tailored sharp and strong; shorts and polos in pink, turquoise and green; and high-cut denim paired with silky printed shirts that apparently have no buttons (the  better to show off those abs).

It seemed as if the collection started to take you around the world, from Scandinavia to Mykonos, and then to Florence, Italy. It reflected a somewhat fictional tourist that spent his vacation traveling and dressing to different parts of the countries. The crowd watched the wardrobe change as the Dsquared men explored the Norwegian coast in trench coats, a beanie, roughed-up jeans,
mountain boots and a scarf. Jet-setting onto Mykonos, Greece, where the sun  is shining and there’s always a party. Here the Dsquared man walked down the runway in red, yellow, and bright, orange shorts and swim briefs, paired with gladiator sandals. By night, he stepped out in colored trousers, gingham blazers, loafers, sunglasses and deck shoes.

There was definitely everything a man could possibly want in this collection. Hats off to Dean and Dan Caten for such a wonderful Spring and Summer 2011 collection.

For styling, luxury personal shopping, editorial and shopping tours, contact fashion & style expert Eric Christian at eric@styleconciergemiami.com and online at www.styleconciergemiami.com

As we all know, living in South Florida has its advantages and, well, disadvantages.

While many of us enjoy the sun, tanning, going shirtless and, of course, the beautiful beaches, during the hot, humid summer months this time of the year can be very harsh on our skin and appearance. Everything from sunburned skin to wrinkles plays a major role in this situation. After carefully researching and taking consideration to the products currently on the market, here are my top five “beauty” picks that can help you survive these hot, summer months:

• Jack Black  All-Over Wash
$14 • www.sephora.com. This is a 3-in-1 combination for the active man. It’s a non-drying body wash, conditioning shampoo with UV filters and a face cleanser as well. It’s important to opt for a non-drying face wash during the summer months to retain moisture and avoid peeling.

• Kiehl’s Acai’ Damage Minimizing Cleanser
$25 • www.kiehls.com. The Style Concierge recommends this product because it’s 100% eco-friendly and is a natural cleanser for the skin. It’s perfect for the heat and restores and repairs damaged skin with the help of the “power” antioxidant acai’.

• Peter Thomas Roth Uber-Dry Sunscreen SPF 30
$26 • www.sephora.com. This is a lightweight sunscreen that provides both UVA/UVB protection while leaving the skin feeling smooth and dry.

• Anthony Logistics Self Tanner with Anti-Aging  Complex
$30 •?www.anthony.com Style Concierge recommends this product because it allows you to have a sun-kissed glow without being exposed to the sun’s harmful rays.  This tanning formula helps erase the signs of aging by providing antioxidant protection.

• Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25
$7.50 • www.sephora.com. I personally use this product because it does a great job at protecting the lips from the sun, with soothing effects of shea butter, vitamin E and green tea. It’s also great for the brows as well.

Style Concierge urges you to be smart about your skin and the damage the sun and heat can cause. This way you will continue to look healthy and handsome all year long.

Eric Christian is a style consultant  and can be reached at eric@styleconciergemiami.com