As Women’s History month continues, I wanted to show recognition to this remarkable woman. Someone who has redefined culture, impacted the world and fashion and is the epitome of what it is to be a strong, empowering female. Her name has been heard all over the world and rightfully so. At the young age of 28, her designs go beyond fashion, she is not only a designer but an influential role model for many women all over the world. Her name is: Anniesa Hasibuan. If you haven’t heard of her yet, now you have, she is one woman whose unforgettable. A humble, talented women that has made her mark on the world as one of the first Indonesian females to present during NYFW last September.

This NYFW season, I was grateful to attend another show of hers, and I was reluctant to sit front row alongside my fellow Lady Bosses Ellese from Rock Paper Glam and Gina from What The Doost. Each season, I’m in complete awe with all of the creations the designers present during NYFW. Anniesa Hasibuan is one designer who not only creates exceptional pieces but gives a whole new meaning to the word empowerment. Last September, she presented her collection where all her models wore the infamous hijab. The Hijab as been seen on many women all over the world often times as a sign of modesty and privacy. Most often, women have been stereotyped as disempowered and constricted when wearing the hijab. But she quickly changed many perceptions of that in one evening. It’s as if I was transported to another time, where women were seen as equals, where we all stood strong and proud wearing the hijab. In one evening, her impact during NYFW, made a HUGE statement in the most positive ways seen all over the world.   The hijab is now not only seen as a strong symbol for many women around the world, but a big fashion statement that is recognized and seen has something quite powerful.  Despite’s many misconceptions and stereotypes, Anniesa Hasibuan changed the view of many and has made a huge impact on both the world and fashion.

This season, she presented her F/W ’17 collection Drama. Once again, she left us in complete awe with all the glitz and glam. Each model dazzled and shined down the runway, in her hand beaded pieces, full-length detailed skirts and intricate designs accessorized with once again the infamous hijab. Her collection and show uplifted our spirits and left us wanting more. Although the hijabs proved to be the main focus last season that wasn’t the case this season. They blended into the background as the outfits took center stage— but perhaps this was the intention. Her designs modeled and seen on the runway illustrated a strong, elegant, glamorous, empowered woman who had exceptional taste and exuded a luxurious lifestyle and persona. Anniesa has proved to us that she is a women beyond her time that can will continue to make waves and statements for all of us to applaud and follow. It comes to no surprise that Anniesa Hasibuan stunned her audience again with an intense, regal runway show. I’m sure many of you are aware of how we females have felt disempowered in our society lately. After seeing Anniesa’s show and many other designers during NYFW, the presence of the female voice was very strong. Giving us all hope that we can all stand proud, unite together and feel strong, empowered and uplifted.  If you attended any of the shows at NYFW you felt the strong politic presence this season. The feeling and atmosphere was quite powerful. Anniesa Hasibuan not only keeps us fashionable but inspires us to be all we can be no matter what race or culture. More reasons to love her, not just for her fashionable creative talents but her encouraging female spirit.

After seeing her show, I left feeling proud and teary-eyed. Her runway show not only gave me chills, but the message and impact she’s made on the world is truly incredible. There aren’t many women who’ve dared to make a difference, made changes in cultural perspectives and continues to uplift everyone around them but she is one whose done this and so much more. I’m blessed and grateful to witness her journey and see how she’s made a name for herself heard all over the world.  She is a true example of a strong, influential, creative, inspiring lady boss who we all can look up to and follow for years to come.

Behind the Scenes and interview with Anniesa Hasibuan:

If you missed this show, watch it here:

What were your thoughts about her runway show? Do you think she’s an inspiration to us all? What are ways that you can inspire, empower and enlighten the world?  Please do share your stories I love hearing from you and please use the hashtags: #SFBWW #SFBInspires #SFBEmpowers

As always, thanks for reading, following along and supporting my journey.

Leanne Marshall, presented her F/W17 collection over the weekend. Influencers, tastemakers and celebrities were in attendance to see her stunning collection. Her F/W17 collection illustrated her ethereal theme with a more fierce upgrade. She incorporated some bold colors in the mix, that showed great contrast to the earth tone hues we’ve seen throughout in her previous collection. It comes to no surprise that when her collection is unveiled she takes our breathes away every time with her ever flowing, dreamy gowns. She featured a perfect blend of chiffon and sateen, with her usual blend of soft colors and a nicely added pop of red just in time for Valentine’s Day!

This season she continued with her statement long flowing dresses that not only compliment but empower the female body.  While also incorporating more chic styles with a more bolder, fierce and strong presence. The theme for her collection was resurrection, illustrating recycled materials and older fabrics in an effort to minimize the waste used in the fashion industry. A beautiful collection that illustrating and alludes to the ideas of a scorn woman that’s standing strong, bold, empowered and fierce. Aveda created the hair and make up looks for the show, showcasing a bold and vintage look paired with a pop of color on the lip to match. In the audience, you saw a mixture of celebrities, influencers and tastemakers who came to support and see her newest collection.  Spotted in the crowd were: Phaedra Parks of RHOA, Nicole ‘Snooki’ Polizzi, Sammi Giancola (Jersey Shore Alums), Emma Myles, Brec Bassinger, Actress Malea Rose, Reginae Carter, Miss USA Deshuana Barber, Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere, Blogger-Ellese Launer of Rock Paper Glam and many others. 

Leanne Marshall is a  graduate of  The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in San Francisco and not only an alum but winner of  Season Five’s Project Runway. Since Project Runway,  Marshall has relocated to New York where she continues her passion designing and has shown her creations all over the world. Celebrities such as: Paula Abdul, Julianna Hough and many more have donned the red carpet wearing her line, and it comes to no surprise why.  Her strong and inspiring presence surely stands out in the fashion world. Leanne Marshall specializes in bridal wear and ready-to-wear lines. 

Without a doubt, Leanne Marshall knocked it out with her strong, fierce and bold collection this season. Bravo!  For more information and to shop her collection click here.

Here are some of my favorites from her Collection:

Photos Taken by: Ellese Launer from Rock Paper Glam 

What are your favorites from her collection?

See the full collection here (Footage from NYFW):

An Interview with Leanne Marshall herself from Addy Media:

As always, thanks for reading, following along and supporting me in my journey!

Hakan Akkaya presented his runway collection on Day 2 of NYFW. I didn’t know what to expect at all. I was fully intrigued and waited with anticipation with other influencers, tastemakers and celebrities who attend the show. The anticipation and excitement always gets me super pumped for any show at NYFW. The show was not only fierce it was electrifying. From the music to the fierce and edgy models you craved for more. Both men and women rocked the runway in mixed metallic patterns paired with the all black ensemble.  The entire collection was very rocker, chic and eccentric.

It was interesting to see designers express their political stances through visual interpretation by way of their collections. You couldn’t help but notice the distinct political undertones seen on the runway that day. Akkaya and his collection spoke volumes and many truths in some of his pieces shown that day. It was both enlightening and liberating!

The show was not only visually stimulating, contagious but inspiring without question. The background music set the tone for the show with its edgy remixes which complimented the entire collection and vibe. This was definitely a crowd pleaser ending with a standing ovation. I couldn’t stop raving about this show, as did many NYFW attendees.

Congrats to the Turkish designer, bravo!

See the full collection here (Footage from NYFW):

Here are my top picks from his Collection:

Photos taken by me @SocialFashionistaBeauty

What would you wear from this collection? 

As always, thanks for reading, following along and supporting me in my journey!

“Every Year The  Women Of New York leave the past behind and look forward for the future. This is known as FASHION WEEK.” -Carrie Bradshaw, Sex And The City

 They say that New York is the city that never sleeps. I’d like to think of it as Fashion never sleeps, nothings stops Fashion. Thursday, February 9th marked the official start to NYFW. Even a blizzard, couldn’t stop NYFW— the show MUST go on! I mean, it’s all for the sake of Fashion, I mean am I right?!

Veronika Brusa, a Swiss interdisciplinary artist presented her RTW Fall ’17 Collection which consist of:  bodysuits, jumpers, cardigans coats and leggings. Brusa is not only a designer but a painter as well. She set the stage with her abstract paintings along the walls and floors where 50 of her models both men and women stood wearing her designs. This was the first presentation I had attended for Berenik for NYFW FW17 . Something I’d never seen before at least in this kind of setting. The backdrop for this preview was definitely different to the more conventional, casual presentations and runway shows seen during NYFW.

The designers message and imagery made a statement that day for sure. Her designs worn by the models who were presumably dancers as well moved on the stage through dramatic choreographed  dance, giving her clothing life and making it come alive.  Brusa stated, “I love to see real people in my clothes,” she explained, but that choice may not have been what was best for the clothes. Bodysuits, leggings, jumpsuits and oversize sweaters were right at home here; shown in silk and rayon panne velvet or satin, some of the pieces were more than just functional.” (WWD) Veronica Brusa’s designs and vision is quite inpressive and her artistic talents were definitely seen throughout this entire presentation. After seeing this collection it’s apparent that “real people” can wear beautiful clothing.

Here are some of my favorite looks from her presentation:

Berenik RTW Fall 2017

Berenik RTW Fall 2017

Berenik RTW Fall 2017

3 Photos from WWD 

For more information and to shop the Berenik collection click here.

What are your favorites from this collection? 

As always, thanks for reading, following along and supporting me in my journey!

Hey Loves!

It’s been a great winter so far. January was the perfect time to decompress, reflect and settle into the new year. It’s February and you know what that means….. Time for the fun and madness to begin all over again. This is my favorite time of year and as a New Yorker, I’m thrilled that we get to enjoy two seasons of it every year! NYFW!

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This was without a doubt my favorite outfit I wore during NYFW. The ruffles were a great added detail to the sleeves. The ruffles made the dress fun, playful and chic.  I know these photos may look familiar, you may have seen them in my “Shopstyle Social House Post.” I couldn’t help but share the look again in it’s own post. Because it was that good, at least in my opinion. 🙂

The off the shoulder look was one style that I rocked all summer long. It’s such a flattering style that suits everyone. What’s great about this dress, I can wear this look again this Fall. The dark denim color is perfect for the season. Great for the day time seen here or even for a night on the town. No matter what time of day you wear this number, you’ll be turning heads all over. Everyone will want to know where to buy this dress. One dress you’ll want to own. Shop my look by clicking the links below.

Shop my Look:

Dress: Tularosa (You can find the dress on this website as well)

Bag: Chanel 

Oxford Lace up Brogues: Kurt Geiger

Sunglasses: Quay Australia

Velvet Choker Necklace: Chloe and Isabel

A special thanks to Shopstyle and @altamiranyc for the mini photoshoot. It was such a pleasure shooting with him. Thankful to have been photographed by someone so talented and amazing. Check him out on Instagram: @altamiranyc. 

How would you style this dress? I love hearing from you, comment below or write to me.

As always, thanks for reading, following along and supporting me in my journey.

Anniesa Hasibuan’s show was simply captivating and moving. At the young age of 28, Hasibuan was the first Indonesian designer to showcase her collection at NYFW. This show has been heard all over the world, and with good reason. History was made in New York at NYFW, for she was the first Indonesian designer to present her collection, where the hijab made its debut on the catwalk. Featuring colorful headscarves in pink, silver and gold. The hijab was styled with eye catching jackets, gowns, colorful silk and patterned tunics, velvets and brocades adorned with pearls and sequins. All handcrafted and beaded with precise detail and care. Anniesa Hasibuan’s collection was inspired by her hometown Jakarta. The final outfit was the most gorgeous showstopper that left the audience stunned. It was truly inspiring to see a young designer like Anniesa Hasibuan present at NYFW. Not only inspiring but empowering, making you believe that dreams really do come true. The look of joy and happiness shined bright on her face has she walked the runway at the end of her show. The show concluded with a standing ovation, that gave me goosebumps.

I fell in love with the beaded jackets and gowns shown that evening. You can clearly see the time and effort that went into making each piece. How they were all handcrafted with the utmost love and care. Truly remarkable. I would totally rock one of those jackets any day!

[The hijab is a veil traditionally worn by Muslim women in the presence of adult males outside of their immediate family, which usually covers the head and chest. The term can further refer to any head, face, or body covering worn by Muslim women that conforms to a certain standard of modesty. Hijab can also be used to refer to the seclusion of women from men in the public sphere, or it may denote a metaphysical dimension, for example referring to “the veil which separates man or the world from God”. (Wikipedia)]

Most often the hijab is worn by muslim women to display modesty and privacy. Most women are often stereotyped as disempowered, and constricted when wearing the hijab. Although, many women today choose to wear it for personal reasons. The hijab is in fact seen as a feminist statement to many. The women of the muslim culture have been neglected in the fashion industry for quite some time. But thanks to designers like Anniesa Hasibuan–she made her mark which was well received by many in the fashion industry. At the end of the show, I along with fellow blogger and friend Ellese Launer of Rock Paper Glam had the pleasure of speaking with the designer. A lovely women, with such great talents and a heart of gold. We asked, ” How long did the beading take?” And she responded, ” Quite some time, all were hand beaded and crafted.” When you speak to her, you too, will see her grace, charm and passion for fashion.

I’ll concluded with a statement Anniesa Hasibuan made to CNN, “I am so proud and thankful for everyone on the team who helped me so this event could happen, and I am thankful to international and local media from Indonesia for exposing my show. I did not realize the result can be this amazing, and I am thrilled and humbled by the welcome reaction given.” (CNN) 

Thank you Anniesa Hasibuan for inspiring and empowering many of us with your collection and making a huge impact on the world. Your designs are truly amazing and well respected.

If you saw the show, and if you caught my Snapchat story that evening, what were your thoughts? Comment below, I love hearing from you!

As always, thanks for reading, following along and supporting me in my journey. I hope you enjoyed reading and I hope this post inspired you just as much as it did me.

Here’s  Part II of A NEW YORK MINUTE:  A PR GAL TAKES ON NYFW 2016.

FEBRARY 12TH

My day starts off with a big cup of coffee well a Skinny Soy Vanilla Latte to be exact from none other than Starbucks. Then off to the office before my first show at 10am Tadashi Shoji. But first work must be done to start my TGIF and day 2 of NYFW. As I sip on my coffee and check my emails that go on for days….. I reply to a few emails, chat on a some conference calls with clients, and continue with my talent submissions. That’s just the beginning of my day, fridays are casual at my office and at times can be chill, today wasn’t one of those days. If your looking for PR or Talent Management advice or consultation, head on over to my services page. I list all of my specialties and services and how I represent you as a client. I’m all about building relationships, creating, and harvesting careers, and taking a brand or client to the next level. Contact me today for more information.

And one thing I may add, while trying to be stylish and chic for NYFW, this Fashion week was all about layers and feeling comfy but still keeping it glam. Because it was beyond cold, and winter was definitely in full effect. I don’t know about you but I was cold AF. (excuse my language but I’m keeping it real 🙂 )

TADASHI SHOJI

Now off to the Tadashi Shoji show, I absolutely love Shoji’s creations. Tadashi Shoji is known for his iconic red carpet gowns and evening wear.  Flowy, shimmery and  sparkly dresses, where some have been influenced by his Japanese culture and background. The set design was stunning, dark but dramatic, and the gown definitely gave off major sex appeal. That runway was hot and sexy and we loved that from this collection. With thigh -high slits, cutouts and embellished bodysuits, the collection was super sexy and to die for. This collection caught everyones attention, including mine, and I love the contrast in his direction with this line. Velvet, sequins and lace were recognizable on the runway. Tadashi Shoji gave his gowns a super sexy upgrade, and I’m sure we all can agree we absolutely LOVED IT. Definitely a collection worth checking out and rocking.

NICOLE MILLER

Best known for her bridal designs, casual fun and flirty wear and accessories,  also a former Rhody as an alum of Rhode Island School of Design. I’ve always enjoyed seeing her work and seeing it come alive on the runway, a great show to close my week and Friday.  For this collection,  she wanted to find a way to make winter seem more happier and brighter as oppose to it’s cold and gloomy outlook. She makes references to nordic style with wears featuring colorful beading, embroidery, tassel prints, and tons of ruffles. Even with the Nordic style and

folkloric influences, she channels and connects eclectic vibes and wintery whimsical air, while staying true to the labels essence of fun, flirty style with a youthful spirit.

FEBRUARY 13TH

MARA HOFFMAN

I absolutely LOVED Mara Hoffman’s presentation at The High Line Hotel. I must say, I love going to presentations because you get to see the designers designs up close and personal, take the photos you’d like and really get a feel for the collection. Not to say I don’t like runway shows, but sometimes they are too fast and you aren’t able to capture the true essence of what the designer is trying to convey at times. Also it can sometimes be hard to get the right photo opt. With the constant flow and movement of all the gorgeousness on the runway, getting that perfect shot can be tricky. Nonetheless, both are visually beautiful.  Mara Hoffman’s presentation seemed dream like, inspired by her three muses of Grace Jone, Jerry Hall and Cher.  Women and children were dressed to the nines with ensembles referencing the  twenties and seventies. Ladies lounging on persian rugs giving off the luxe and chic vibe. All of the designs were eye-catching, I wanted one of everything in my size. She even incorporated her signature pieces- her beautiful maxi dresses that were lace embroidered. She was saying at the presentation that she wanted to “Represent the journey of a women, a women who traveled the world.” In this collection, with it’s vibe, fabrics, and twenties -seventies influences she sure did that just that.

SHOPSTYLECOLLECTIVE SOCIALHOUSE

Next stop, SHOPSTYLECOLLECTIVE SOCIAL HOUSE

My husband and I head to the ShopStyleCollection Social House event at 404 10th avenue. We braved the cold again, all layered and bundled and headed to the fun-filled event. And it surely wasn’t just an event for just women, men, husband, boyfriends etc were welcomed too. My husband got to join in on the fun, and he enjoyed himself, but mostly he enjoyed seeing me in my element. Networking, connecting, and embracing the whole experience with me. We arrived in this social house filled with vendors and brands, displays of the latest styles and trends in fashion for you to borrow and wear to complete your look during NYFW. How awesome is that, it was AMAZING! We met some of the team from Shopstyle, Gigi of New York, and Daniel Wellington. And to top it off, Gigi of New York gifted women monogram bags that had a crossbody strap that detached to convert the bag into a super cute clutch. Daniel Wellington was also gifting their watches to attendees. My husband and I got matching watches. Love the brand, so classic and versatile,  and definitely stylish and fashionable. We enjoy small bites, light cocktails, a photo session with notable photographer Craig David, viewed wearable collections from top brands and I enjoyed a little beauty touch up from their beauty station with Stoway Cosmetics & R+Co.  While at the event, I met other fashion bloggers and fashion savvy elites, as we discussed our week ahead and exchanged which shows we were attending as well as information to stay in touch. What a great event to start the Fashion week mania. Overall, both my husband and I were thankful for the invitation. Looking forward to future events. Upon leaving we were gifted goodies totes filled with momentums, gifts and other information about the event, the brands there and more.

With it being Valentine’s Day weekend, I got to enjoy the rest of the day with my forever valentine, my husband.  Took a break from my NYFW schedule and spent the rest of the day and evening with my love. We grabbed a bite to eat in the city before heading home. We continue our Valentine day/weekend by relaxing and cuddling up on the couch to a movie at home. To some that may seem boring, but with it being so cold, and both of us being super exhausted from the week, it was a perfect evening. And it’s never boring when your spending it with someone you love. (Sounds corny, but I keep it real and it’s the truth)!! 🙂

FEBRARY 14TH VALENTINES DAY

After a romantic night in with my husband, this was yet another sleepless night for me. My body was telling me I need sleep, but my mind was telling me you still haev a gazillion things you need to do. I began my mental list…. As much as I tried to get some shut eye, I still had a million things to do before my next couple of shows and presentations for today and the week ahead. So after enjoying a nice movie with my husband, as he rested, I replied to a few client emails, (my westcoast clients) and edited my photos from shows, presentations and events for the blog and portfolio.

A PR girl’s job is never done nor does she ever stop working, she’s always in working mode, and making moves everywhere she goes. Stress will arise regardless,  but I too sometimes need to listen to my own advice. It’s extremely important to get rest, even though your days are long and busy rest — staying healthy is vital and important.  Even though I may struggle with the lack of sleep element, I fully promote R&R. It’s good for your body and good for your soul.

That day I met with the two amazing female bloggers BrownEyedToast and Rock.Paper. Glam at the Michael De Paulo presentation. Michael De Paulo’s Fall/Winter 2016 Collection was truly exquisite and breathtaking. I appreciated that De Paulo didn’t shy away from working with varying silhouettes. It was nice to see the versatility throughout his collection. From his full-length ball gown to his flirty and might I add sexy beaded jumpsuit and his fun and whimsical take on a ballet skirt. I can’t express enough how I love seeing a designers creative artistry come to life. Michael De Paulo’s collection exudes luxury and sophistication yet chic and sexy all at the same time. My personal favorite was the beaded deep v jumpsuit. It was very chic and super sexy!

 For the rest of NYFW I attended the shows/presentations of:  Lela Rose, Rachel Zoe, Monique lhuillier, Style Fashion Week, Nolcha Show– Rohitava Banerjee, and Alice and Olivia. On one of the nights during Fashion week, I took a break from it all and attended a NY Society event and Release Party for Sophisticated Weddings. I’ll  speak more about the event in my Wedding Wednesday post for next week. Overall, NYFW 2016 was a success, even though my body and mind were completely exhausted, it was a fun-filled week. The fashion just gets better and better each time around. I enjoyed seeing and meeting the people I connected with. A couple days with little to no sleep is all worth it for the sake of FASHION!!  That concludes my recap and take on NYFW 2016, hope you enjoyed my take and recap of my fully loaded week of glamour, fatigue, and fun!!

Enjoy my gallery of photos below of : A NEW YORK MINUTE: A PR GAL TAKES ON NYFW 2016

My PR /Talent Management/Blogger advice: R&R is key, stress will come with anything, and the workload will surely be there. But be sure to take care of you first, before anything else. Above anything else, stay humble, and stay true to yourself. Take a moment and take it all in and never let a moment pass you by. Count your blessings each and everyday. And always remember to be courageous, be stylish, be glam, and be YOU! Love of love to you always!

What can we expect in fashion trends?

Color blocking

Gradients of colors

greys, caramels, creams,

Blue hues

Twenties and Seventies influences

Sexy, Chic, luxe styles

The blend of masculine and feminine styles colliding

 Fashion that’s more comfortable, chic yet versatile

Lots of drama, floral prints, flowy dresses and gowns

Lace, velvet and embroidered pieces

After what I saw and what you’ll see in my photos you would want to own something from each collection if not all!!

To end here’s my PR/Talent MGNMT/BLOGGER GAL Advice to you all:

 R&R is key, stress will come with anything, and the workload will surely be there. But be sure to take care of you first, before anything else. Above anything else, stay humble, and stay true to yourself. Take a moment and take it all in and never let a moment pass you by. Count your blessings each and everyday. And always remember to be courageous, be stylish, be glam, and be YOU! Love of love to you always!  If you can dream and believe it anything is always possible!! MUAH!

Who is your favorite designer and who would you wear most?

Let me know by commenting below!