Out From Under The Tents


By Lauren Clarke-Bennett

N.Y. Fashion Week, isn’t just about the tents at Lincoln Center. There were a plethora of other shows, gifting suites and events throughout the City that made the fashionista’s heads spin. From off site Mercedes Benz Fashion Week shows to independent designers that pass on the hefty fees to be part of the MBFW roster, there was something for every style seeker.

The HSN Gifting Lounge held at The Empire Hotel showed off their latest and greatest products to VIPs like The Countess LuAnn de Lesseps (NY Housewives) and Cynthia Bailey (Atlanta Housewives). The one and only Jose Eber celebrity hair stylist to the stars showed his product line and sampled his new shampoo and conditioner, that makes everyone red carpet ready. Carmindy style expert on TLC’s ‘What Not To Wear’, author and creator of Carmindy & Co. had a marvelous, ready in 5 minutes face make up kit; one color palette looks great on all skin tones. Fern Mallis presented FERN FINDs, a fabulous jewelry line that is killing it with the at home shoppers. JOY MANGANO, makes great looking clothing steamers for at home and travel, in beautiful bright colors. RARA AVIS By IRIS APFE designed a line of shoes, bags and necklaces with a great sense of humor. Dee Hilfiger showcased her gorgeous co-ordinated clothing and accessory line (DEESIGNS). Giuliana Rancic, Hal Rubenstein, David Meister, Eureka By Christos Garkinos and Byron Lars put together there own stunning collections in colors that pop with prints to match. At the end VIPs were treated to a tote bag filled with goodies from each designer’s line.

Malan Breton showed a sophisticated collection with a ‘Cabaret’ feel at the chic midtown Out Hotel. Brimming with techno fibers, silk, cashmere and fur, the stage was set with a singer and accompanist to wow the crowd.

Twain’s Twines sponsored by ORGANO coffee and teas, rolled out their “Sophistication” with an eco sensibility Fall 2014 collection at the Stepping Out Studio on west 26th St.

The International Rescue Committee that connects land with refugees so they can grow their own produce hosted its first IRC New Roots pop-up. The two day event featured locally-sourced Grab & Go lunches by celebrity chef David Burke at the Empire Hotel and highlighted their efforts to bring nutritious foods into the lives of not only refugees but people living in complex conflict zones throughout the world.

Alice & Olivia not only created an awesome collection for Fall 2014 but staged a legendary living theater event at the McKittrick Hotel. From the time you walked down those dimly lit hallways to grabbing a glass of Dom Perignon pink or white champagne you knew this was a special experience. The world of Alice & Olivia unfold before your very eyes. A music cafe mesmerized as celebs like Sami Gayle (Blue Bloods and Paris Hilton mingled, enjoying the drama of it all. Moving through the rooms opened up a fantasy world culminating in the main hall that was filled with the fairytale characters decked out in designer Stacey Bendet’s latest creations, staging the story of Alice & Olivia. A perfect ending to a week of fabulous fashion!