Opening Night with the Walter Collection and Naeem Khan: LAFW 2019

Posted on April 15, 2019 by Lizzy

(All Photos by John Collazos)

The Opening Reception for LAFW 2019 (lafw.net) took place at The Petersen Museum on Wilshire Blvd. Friday, March 22 mixing classic cars and standout fashion. The Walter Collection and Naeem Khan NYC both featured gorgeous collections. Two different aesthetics with beautifully embellished gowns, jackets, and jumpsuits ruled the runway and made a new mark on the L.A. fashion scene.

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Walter Mendez and Ryan Patros, head the Walter Collection (waltercollection.com) and they created an enchanted garden vibe for the show from their fall and winter 2019 collection. They are L.A. based and bring so much beauty to the fashion scene. The collection consisted of textured cut-out gowns and garments with soft colors. The curve-hugging creations have graced the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, and Beyonce. The designs that came down the runway were celebrity worthy pieces, and it was thrilling to see couture up close! There were pieces embellished with embroidered beading and baby blue colored tulle that had an ultra-feminine ethereal effect. Bohemian brim hats (think Lady Gaga), oversized flowers, and headpieces for the hair added to the youthful vibe of the show.

Naeem Khan (naeemkhan.com) was a definite highlight and featured an edgier vibe as Khan showed their fall and winter runway collection that debuted at NYFW. He’s dressed countless celebrities for The Grammy’s Golden Globes, and the Oscars. It’s a beautiful collection heavy on texture and various rich prints. The collection had a 70’s rock-‘n-‘roll vibe to it, especially with the striped, sequined flare leg trousers and embroidered tops with metal-embellished fringe at the waist. Naeem Khan grew up in India, and it’s incredible to see how he blends a large part of the Indian culture of design with modern American fashion.

The collection also featured garments full of feathers, trending fringe, and multi-color embroidery. Overall, tops, trousers, and jackets were the signature pieces of the collection, A standout piece was a floor-length silver metallic dress with a low-V (accented with a leather tie), and a stunning tiger-print floor-length cape completed with black tights and silver stilettos.

The opening reception was a night to remember. LAFW is becoming more of an exclusive event for established and emerging designers — this is the beauty of fashion. We are already thrilled for next year.

https://www.instagram.com/john_collazos/

johncollazos.com

Opening Night with the Walter Collection and Naeem Khan: LAFW 2019

Posted on March 31, 2019March 31, 2019 by Lizzy

(All Photos by John Collazos)

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https://www.instagram.com/john_collazos/

johncollazos.com

Luxury designer BJORN VAN DEN BERG designs Limited Edition bottles for evian®

Posted on December 20, 2018December 20, 2018 by Lizzy

Gemma has had the fabulous opportunity to cover several of Bjorn Van Den Berg’s collections before. He is known for his glamorous and luxurious designs. Bjorn is a highly respected couture designer with an innate talent for craftsmanship, creativity and the unexpected. Today marks history for Bjorn Van Den Berg: evian® (pureevian.com) and Bjorn van den Berg have joined forces and created a new collection of evian® Limited Edition bottles. The purity of Evian water and a crystal pendant come together for a chic statement and unique collaboration with authentic meaning for the holiday season. It is an incredible combination of art, design, and fashion — and what every designer aspires to. Eleven years ago, evian® collaborated for the first time with a fashion designer, Christian Lacroix. This year, Bjorn van den Berg has given the evian® Limited Edition an added twist. The latest collection symbolizes elegance and exclusivity, thanks to the refined and creative touch of Bjorn.

Inspiration

Being inspired by the holidays, together with Evian,® the designer developed a unique concept: ‘Something to give ‘, ‘Something to share’ and ‘Something to cherish.’ The bottle is wrapped in a beautiful package (to give) and adorns the Christmas table during the holidays, where family and friends drink the water (to share) with each other. For a final touch, the exclusive crystal pendant can be disconnected from the bottle and given as a gift to a loved one (to cherish). The chain to which the crystal pendant can be attached can is in the box. This component is perhaps an essential element of the bottle; during the holidays it is all about sharing precious memories with family, friends and loved ones.

One of Bjorn’s latest collections, called ‘Fragile,’ which Gemma covered, inspired the look and design of the bottle. In this collection, the purity and vulnerability of humanity are central and clear crystals play the main role. The ‘Fragile’ collection appeared in several American television shows, including the talk show by “Ellen DeGeneres” and “America’s Got Talent.” Celebrities such as Mel B and Viktoria Modesta have graced the collection. Also, the pendant featured on the bottle comes from the exclusive prêt-a-porter collection of Bjorn, which he launched this fall.

The Classic Fashion Fusion

The evian® Limited Edition by Bjorn van den Berg is a timeless standout, a jewel on every table. Bjorn designed a special bracket for the evian® Limited Edition, made of rhodium, on which he carefully placed crystals. The neck of the bottle is provided with beautiful decoration in the form of a cachet, also embracing the symbol of togetherness.
Evian’s overall brand and vision combine seamlessly with the ‘Fragile’ collection and Bjorn’s aesthetic exudes quality couture and pure beauty — every single drop. Bjorn Van Den Berg has an internal vision that is incredibly unique and it speaks to him.

Evian ® natural mineral water originates from the heart of the French Alps, a unique geological area in the world. The brand has always had a pioneering spirit and is the epitome of her iconic live young state of mind: an enthusiasm to discover the wonders of this world and open our eyes to new and inspiring experiences with the ability to marvel as a child. Since 2007, evian® has created an annual Limited Edition bottle together with the world’s most prestigious designers, including Paul Smith, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Issey Miyake, and Kenzo. In every collaboration, purity and playfulness are brought together in a festive way – a reinterpretation of the evian® spirit in art and design.

Bjorn is a luxury designer in heart and soul. His love for luxurious materials and refined finish is unprecedented, and his designs exude intricate details, international allure, and glamour. Bjorn’s work emulates authentic artistry through its craftsmanship and ability to stay a few steps ahead within the fashion industry. In 2011 his adventure started as a designer, and in 2012 he launched his first commercial label. His work has appeared in international magazines, such as Harpers Bazaar, BASIC magazine, Schön magazine, and many other publications. On behalf of Gemma, I am so impressed by Bjorn Van Den Berg’s talent and vision.

The success of Bjorn has not gone unnoticed, even in Hollywood. His exclusive custom-made designs are adored by stars like Nicki Minaj, Gwen Stefani, Kelly Rowland, and Demi Lovato. His clients greatly appreciate his extravagant style, eye for detail and ability to think out of the box. Van Den Berg is the ultimate designer, style collaborator, and storyteller. On behalf of Gemma, I am so impressed by Bjorn Van Den Berg’s talent and vision and was honored to cover this timeless collaboration.

www.bjornvandenberg.com

https://www.instagram.com/vandenbergbjorn/

DORIS BERGMAN’S NINTH ANNUAL STYLE LOUNGE & PARTY, HONORING TELEVISION’S BIGGEST NIGHT, #Emmys2018

Posted on September 26, 2018October 1, 2018 by Lizzy

Glamour, Giving Back, and Style took place on Thursday, September 13, at Fig & Olive – THE Hollywood Hotspot on Melrose Place. The newly renovated venue opened its doors to Bergman’s Style Lounge and Party – in celebration of the upcoming 70th Annual Emmy® Awards. Over 100 of Hollywood’s most excellent turned out to celebrate and honor the television industry’s Emmy® Nominated actors, former Emmy® winners, presenters, stylists, and industry VIPs. This highly anticipated invitation-only event, hosted by Green Horizon and presented by Precious Vodka.

Doris Bergman hosts the chicest events in the city, and once again, she did not disappoint. The Style Lounge and Party featured an incredible array of fashion for him and her including couture gowns, grooming products, the finest in beauty, skin & hair care, stunning jewelry collections, gorgeous accessories, fashion-forward luggage, Napa Valley wines, premium luxury coffee, innovative teeth whitening, chic chapeaus, fabulous fragrance, everything for the pampered baby, gourmet cuisine, unique spirits, delectable sweets and much more!

A new vendor this year was Green Horizon (www.greenhorizen.com). The Utah based company is so lovely and helpful. I sampled the calming CBD oil and it was quite relaxing. The sponsors were highly informative. The founder of Horizon, Jeannie Carlson, had a vision of Greatness: A desire to make real change in the world. They offer great products and are changing the world to a healthier place.

GLEB SAVCHENKO WITH TITLE SPONSOR GREEN HORIZEN

MICHAEL IRBY WITH PRESENTING SPONSOR PRECIOUS VODKA

Precious Vodka always adds a splash of fun. (http://preciousvodka.com/)
Precious Vodka combines style and quality taste. It’s considered a classy vodka company who takes pride in all business aspects. The company was founded in 2010 with the goal of giving consumers a unique, high-end experience. Produced by one of the oldest distilleries in the eastern European region, Jewel Lines introduced the world’s most Precious Vodka. Initially launched in Europe and Australia to rave reviews, it is now in over 40 countries worldwide, Precious Vodka has achieved elite status. In 2016 Precious Vodka was recognized as one of the best Vodka’s in the world, winning a gold medal in the 2016 ‘San Francisco World Spirit Competition.’

In beauty news, Heather Marianna is an actress and spokesperson initially known for creating Beauty Kitchen, (https://beautykitchen.net), a show that teaches women how to create fantastic spa products in their very own kitchens. She now creates natural organic products of her own that are loved all over the world. The Emmy gift boxes provided by Beauty Kitchen were incredible!

Beauty Kitchen

Nicole Freiss started the beautiful apparel company Lollies and Lace Couture Baby Clothing, which was new to the Doris Bergman Style Longe Soiree this year (lolliesandlaceboutique.com)with sweet treats of clothing and accessories for your little girl. Her presentation brought out your inner child. Sizes range from 6 months to 8 years and select fabrics that are soft and not constricting. She has studied the latest trends and patterns to come up with unique designs. “I learned as a mother what fabrics are easy to maintain and wash without doing a lot of ironing or maintenance,” said Nicole. Overall, the look is modest, yet playful and fun.

Actress Kelsey Scott with Lollies and Lace Founder Nicole Freiss

A signature statement and always gorgeous look is Twisted Silver Jewelry. (https://twisted-silver.com/shop/ ). They were back with their gorgeous jewels. Deb Mitchell has created an incredible company with Bracelets, Brass Jewelry, Mixed Metals and much more! The creativity never stops at this table.

Deb Mitchell (Founder of Twisted Silver) and Diego Valdez (Influencer )

Also back with many sweet blessings was the Jewelry company, My Saint, My Hero. Their bracelets always give off good vibes. (https://mysaintmyhero.com)

My Saint, My Hero

PortoVino, (https://porto-vino.com/products/portovino-crossbody-bag), made a strong statement at the #Emmy18 Style Lounge! They have a strong commitment to exceptional quality, cool designs, excellent service and to help you celebrate life! The handbag company also prides themselves on offering their customers the best quality and service possible.

DIEGO TINOCO WITH VIP SPONSOR PORTO VINO

SÜNDER ( https://www.sunderusa.com) is an award-winning premium mixer. The beverage consists of exotic fruits, and their blend provides an extra hint of sweetness with a touch of bitterness. Sourced from all natural ingredients with no caffeine or taurine. Sunder’s refreshing carbonated beverages are perfect to drink over ice or with your preferred cocktail.

Sunder Mixers

With the September heat in LA, it’s essential to stay hydrated and Hint Water (https://www.drinkhint.com) always helps. Hint water- a delicious, unsweetened flavored water is still refreshing and healthy. Hint started by taking boring old water and making it delicious without sugar or sweeteners.

John Brotherton with Hint Water

Sue Wong Fashion always makes a statement, and it was lovely to see her again. (https://www.suewong.com). Her designs are compelling, romantic, and poetic. Sue Wong understands this power. In her outlook, her vision, and her designs, she honors the goddess force — the universal feminine energy that allows women to transcend their time and place.

Sue Wong Fashion

Sue Wong

Nourish Modern Wellness Skincare (nourishmodernwellness.com) was informative and inspiring. Hosted by Nourish Modern Wellness founder, Dr. Orie Achonwa, Orie has a passion for plant-based nutrition and beauty that began in her formative years. Her company has grown tremendously and is now focusing on the consumer health market, creating products that encourage people to take healthcare into their own hands.

Nourish Skincare Line

Dr. Orie Achonwa (2nd from left) with her Nourish Products

Chef John from Emporium Thai (https://www.ethaicuisine.com) and VIP Sponsor, offer the most refreshing and decadent iced tea. One of my favorite stops for sure. Emporium Thai was voted one of the 100 best Thai Restaurants in the US. Family-owned and operated, they have shared the beautiful flavors of authentic Thai food with our customers since 2000. Its authentic cuisine and cooking are in the genes!

KELLY JENRETTE WITH VIP SPONSOR EMPORIUM THAI

Mobile White (https://beamingwhite.com/business/supplies/mobile-teeth-whitening-system) Mobile White’s mission is to enable teeth whitening professionals to provide the most effective teeth whitening products and services for a reasonable cost.

MICHAEL CAMPION WITH VIP SPONSOR MOBILE WHITE

Kamshield, (https://kamshielddirect.com), was a great vendor. Kamshield LLC is a woman-owned company founded by Kameron Miller. Kameron’s interest in online security stemmed from her experience of being hacked several years ago. Wanting to find a solution and prevent others from enduring the same violation, Kameron saw her vision for online security come to life with the Kamshield Webcam Cove.

Kamshield.com

Buywine (buywine.com)is always one of my Style Lounge faves. The wines are truly delicious. Lihjt with a smooth finish. The company is so knowledgeable and passionate. The creation of BuyWine.com was conceived out of necessity that we all have a longing for wine and a thirst for knowledge, but do not always know where to look. Not only did the innovative company set out to build a complete worldwide directory of vineyards and wineries, but they also listened to their customer. BuyWine.com also features hotels and restaurants, which helps complete your travel needs.

BuyWine Founder Alma Callan (M) with Kelsey Scott

Goldinger’s Print Tees (https://www.goldingersbrand.com/pages/about)
The Third Generation Authentic Vintage Inspired Lifestyle Apparel features the coolest t-shirts. Their Mission is Creating Cool Premium Collectible Quality Apparel. Simultaneously, the company strives to adhere to highest disciplined printing, design, fabrics & fit. All apparel is created with passion & integrity with the most top skilled Craftspeople “BUILT TO LAST & MADE To WEAR.”

Lou Ferrigno checking out t-shirts

Let’s Cake specializes in setting up “Do-It-Yourself” Cake or Cupcake Decorating Stations. It provides an activity as well as a way to send your guests home with something special. Peronally, I hd a blast at this table. Let’s Cake (https://www.letscakeevents.com/)

Let’s Cake

Diamond Veneer – (http://diamondveneer.com) features beautiful jewelry with a flawless finish. Diamond Veneer introduces using the revolutionary process of treating Cubic zirconia with a veneer of carbon diamond particles, crystallizing around the entire
stone resulting in a flawless “G” color on the diamond color scale. The durability of the CZ as a real diamond at a fraction of the cost.

Mind In Sole Insole Foot Massage always is a relaxing effect. (https://www.mindinsole.com) – Partnering the long-standing tradition of ancient medicines with scientifically proven innovative technologies, MindInsole brings you holistic and natural solutions to everyday problems

Michele Weaver with MINDINSOLE

In the spirit of giving back, (and one the most poignant) of the event), is ‘Wednesday’s Child.’ Guests & sponsors made monetary donations and donated unwrapped gifts for young adults (ages 13-18) for a Pre-Holiday Gift Drive benefiting ‘Wednesday’s Child’ — a weekly segment airing on KTTV FOX 11 News, Los Angeles, with Anchor Christine Devine. ‘Wednesday’s Child’ highlights ‘harder to place’ young adults in the LA County foster care system who are in need of adoptive families. “In Los Angeles County, alone, there are over 30,000 children receiving child welfare services,” says social worker, Dr. William Wong. Bergman always invites at least two foster children to join in on the festivities and experience what it feels like to receive the VIP treatment, http://www.foxla.com/wednesdays-child

Miles Tagtmyer supporting “Wednesday’s Child”

Emmy’s Hope Dog Accessories (https://prettyfluffy.com/trends-shopping/editors-picks/emmy-inspired-dog-accessories) were on hand for all the pet lovers featuring the best of pet accessories.
Other exciting vendors gracing the Style Lounge for #Emmys2018 were Rhonda Sheer Aah Bras (rhondashear.com), as well as Rock Your Hair (https://www.rockyourhair.com) with their fabulous hair products.
Zangu Language App (http://www.zanguapp.com) which is so much for kids. ZANGU helps children master pronunciation through a series of creative challenges and an engaging storyline.

Emmy’s Hope Dog Accessories

Bitmar Streaming was present. (https://bitmar.com/about.htm) – BitMar Networks is the firm behind the BitMar streaming platform. In essence, BitMar is a streaming portal; that connects you to millions of movies, TV shows, channels, games, music and more (from different sources, throughout the Web.)

2018 Emmy Nominees Kelly Jenrette (“The Handmaid’s Tale”), Lee Garlington (“Broken”), Miles Tagtmeyer (“Broken”), Melvin Jackson, Jr. (“This Eddie Murphy Role is Mine, Not Yours”), Naomi Grossman (“Control Alt Delete”),Sam Sokolov (Executive Producer “Genius: Picasso”), Sharon Bialy and Sherry Thomas (Casting Directors for “Handmaid’s Tale” & “Barry”) joined Former Emmy Winners Kim Estes (Best Actor “Dicks” 2017), Patrika Darbo (Best Actress “Acting Dead” 2016, Former Emmy Nominees Kelsey Scott and Khandi Alexander, Grammy Winning Bonnie & Anita Pointer (“Pointer Sisters”), Lou Ferrigno (“The Hulk”), Michael Irby (“Mayans M.C.”), Michael Campion (“Fuller House”), Gleb Savchenko (“Dancing With The Stars”), Diego Tinoco (“On My Block”), Joely Fisher, Khandi Alexander, John Brotherton (“Fuller House”), Matt Cedeno (“Power”), Lisa Vidal (“Being Mary Jane”), Michele Weaver (“Love Is”), to name a few, who were among the cadre of celebrities and industry VIPS who were treated to the best of the best!

Subscriptions; Filam Luxury Coffee; Junkless Granola Bars (https://junklessfoods.com); “Shark Tank” Winning BeatBox Portable Party Punch (https://beatboxbeverages.com); Planet Beauty (planetbeauty.com); Popsockets phone accessories (https://www.popsockets.com); The Hollywood Trinity (thehollywoodtrinity.com) and Popcornopolis (popcornopolis.com)
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VIP Gift Bags were provided by Emmy’s Hope and Kam Shield.

The Doris Bergman Style Lounge and Party 2018 was a wonderful way to celebrate the Emmy’s and it was an honor to attend. Gemma Magazine can’t wait to attend next year!

Emmy’s 2018 Best Dressed and Chicest List

Posted on September 18, 2018September 18, 2018 by Lizzy

This year, celebrities did not disappoint with epic garments that look like they were made for the red carpet and all of the high fashion glamour. On the heels of New York Fashion Week, A-listers brought designers’ best to pre-show festivities while transforming the carpet to a runway of couture ensembles. They sparkle, awe and demonstrate the widely-celebrated allure of Hollywood.

Gemma tends to go for chic and simplistic. However, fashion is part fantasy, part artistry. It’s innovative to be bold and have standout pieces in cut, color, and overall aesthetic. However, classic glamour never goes out of style.

Here are Gemma’s picks:

Jessica Biel simply Shut It Down! Biel may just win her first Emmy tonight, and The Sinner actress — who is nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress for her role in season one of the USA show — looked beautiful in a strapless white gown with half-circle shaped patches on it. The Ralph and Russo (ralphandrusso.com) couture dress was a stunner. Her hair was down with effortless waves, which made her bright red lip stand out.

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Mandy Moore from”This Is Us” in a Rodarte Metallic Dress with gold and black hues. (www.rodarte.net/)

The ‘This Is Us’ star always looks chic and Rodarte was a great choice for her. Metallic hues have dominated fashion runways for months. In all honesty, there’s something to be said about a beautifully understated minimal makeup look. Usually reserved for NYFW, on the red carpet it’s so refreshing. Mandy’s makeup artist Jenn Streicher created the beautiful, warm, bronze-y monochromatic makeup look on the This Is Us actress. It’s toned down and so refreshing.

Thandie Newton was an angelic vision in her floor-length off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood pink gown. Newton wore Harry Winston baubles and very minimal makeup (yet, with pink-ish tones).

Zoe Kravitz was fabulous in feathers! She was a showstopper as she posed in an eye-popping Dior dress covered in rainbow-colored feathers and was black above the waist on the red carpet at the Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles. The actress, 28, was joined by her dashing actor boyfriend Karl Glusman for the HBO drama “Big Little Lies.”

Glam Factor:
The sleeveless number featured a cleavage-baring neckline that fell almost to her midriff, and she accessorized the look up a notch up the look with a double-necklace and earrings.

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Keri Russell in Zuhair Murad (http://zuhairmurad.com/en/home)

She wore a long-sleeve belted black Zuhair Murad dress with structured shoulders and the gown featured a sultry plunging neckline design. While her midsection was covered in black feathers, the bottom portion of her look revealed two thigh-high slits. It was a sexy look for her and worked well.

Hair Details

Subtle Hair Trend: Evan Rachel Wood

Everyone looked great and some stood out. The women that can combine their dress, makeup hues, hair and jewelry into a niche look have it figured out. It might look effortless, but each detail is pre-planned.

La Jolla Fashion Film Festival 2018 ~ Is Fashion Dead or Not

Posted on July 4, 2018July 5, 2018 by Lizzy

Once again, the La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival 2018 is prepping for its annual festivities. This event is the first international fashion film festival founded in North America. The dates this year are July 19-21st. Gemma Magazine will be attending and we are thrilled to participate. The #LJFFF is considered the Cannes of the fashion film world and the world’s largest gathering of fashion filmmakers. It’s basically creativity from all elements: fashion, film, filmmakers, actors, and beautiful cinematography with stories to tell.

Hundreds of fashion filmmakers from around the world will be in attendance as they are mesmerized by the top 1% of fashion films produced worldwide at the upcoming 9th year of LJFFF. The La Jolla community will gather together once again to network, make deals, attend seminars & panels, screen films, go to press receptions, participate in After Parties, and win awards.

The films that make it into the final program will represent some of the most brilliant and creative directors in filmmaking today. If you have happen to viewed various clips throughout the year, the talent is stellar. Curated from the fantastic and exploding world of fashion film, are a glimpse of what’s trending in the minds of the world’s top fashion houses, designers, and stylists interpreted through the lens of their filmmaking counterparts. Creativity and on trend styles that will forshadow what’s to come on a high fashion level.

Max Vogue is an integral aspect of the festival, and Gemma Magazine has had a crush for awhile now. Antonio Contreras Aviance created the concept, stories, and art. Antonio plays Max Vogue and so perfectly. Fred Sweet produces the series. Antonio is also a multiple international Fashion Film Award winner (5x). This year, the festival will pay homage to Gianni versace by featuring the Versace Collection in a wonderful episodic series and musical. also, for the 2018 Fashion Film Festival, Max Vogue The Musical highlights the question of whether fashion is dead or not!

Max Vogue, a time traveling, gender bending, angst filled Fashion Historian and Detective has come to the conclusion that fashion has stopped changing since the 90’s. Max only envisions revivals and “comebacks.”How is this possible?? During the chaotic madness of a Versace fashion show, Max takes a fatal fallandhis guardian angel, “La Catrina”takes Max to what seems to be the “Fashion Purgatory Salon” where he gets his chance to meet iconic personalities of Arts and Fashion. The costumes are pure fantasy and based off of history. Costume designer Zandra Rhodes created the gorgeous creation for the character of Diana Vreeland.

The musical is inspired by the 2012 Kurt Andersen article “You want a Devolution” in Vanity Fair, the 1944 play “Huis Clos” by Jean Paul Sartreand the 1992 film Twin Peaks by David Lynch.

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Much more to come on this fabulous fashion festival, Max Vogue, and the winners.

In the meantime, you can follow Max Vogue and The La Jolla International Film Festival at the following platforms:

https://www.facebook.com/maxvogue/

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Antonio Contreas

A Fusion of Eastern and Western Fashion ~Michael Leyva

Posted on June 20, 2018June 21, 2018 by Lizzy

There is something admirable about a humble designer, and Michael Leyva (www.michaelleyva.com) fits the description. Humility is real, raw, and always keeps you grounded so that you are continually improving your craft. Therefore you learn not to take your talent for granted and an artist can keep growing. Welcome to the world of Fashion Designer Michael Leyva. Leyva has accomplished fusing an Eastern and Western aesthetic with his stunning designs. There are the classic Filipino characteristics combined with the contemporary and modern look from the American culture. His work is pure artistry and the definition of authenticity.

Michael’s rise to becoming one of Manila’s sought-after haute costume designers is a beautiful story of loss, fulfillment, hard work, and humility. The story continues with Michael Leyva bringing his embellished and elegant gowns to the Los Angeles fashion district as he continues to establish himself as the high fashion designer that he embodies. His work speaks for itself, but Michael also has a beautiful story.

For a touch of background, Michael Leyva did not always know he was destined to be a fashion designer. Leyva was a flight attendant and had spent many years training for this. However, he was not happy and felt that there was something more. During this time, he also went through the tragic event of losing his brother, famed fashion designer, Brian Leyva. Michael was Brian’s biggest fan, and they had a beautiful relationship. After much soul-searching, Leyva took this moment of loss and reinvented himself as a fashion designer, which brought great fulfillment.

Coming from the legacy of his brother, who was a renowned designer, Michael Leyva was able to pick up where Brian left off and continued the LEYVA brand. Ironically, an unfortunate and tragic event in the Leyva family turned out to be Michael’s defining moment of becoming a designer and began his journey in the world of fashion.

LAFW 2018

After years of training under Filipino Fashion Stewart, Mr. Jojie Lloren, Michael spent a few rapidly evolving years designing for the inner circles of celebrity clientele and created quite the buzz within the fashion industry. Embracing his philosophy of keen attention to detail and learning, Michael decided to refine his skills through his studies at the elite Central Saint Martins School in London. Michael also designs the most beautiful bridal gowns. They are romantic and dramatic.

Through his dedication and passion, Michael has established himself as one of the top couture designers throughout the Philippines and Asia, Michael has prepared himself to continue his immense and rapid growth by branching into and throughout the United States. After just one week after his arrival, his gowns were seen and applauded on the Daytime Emmys red carpet and stage between three presenters, winners, nominees, and producers. Leyva also made his LAFW debut in March of 2018. He featured on-trend couture designs and it was a successful show.

Daytime Emmy Awards

Michael never ceases to surprise both the local and global audiences with his design and craftsmanship. The story of Michael Leyva will continue to shine. His late brother Brian is always within his heart to guide, support and love.

To follow Michael on Social Media:

FB:https://www.facebook.com/reymichaelleyva

IG:https://www.instagram.com/michaelleyva_/?hl=en

He is represented by NOW PR LA

gemma

A Magazine about Art, Fashion & Style from a Diverse Perspective

couture

Opening Night with the Walter Collection and Naeem Khan: LAFW 2019

Opening Night with the Walter Collection and Naeem Khan: LAFW 2019

Luxury designer BJORN VAN DEN BERG designs Limited Edition bottles for evian®

Inspiration

The Classic Fashion Fusion

DORIS BERGMAN’S NINTH ANNUAL STYLE LOUNGE & PARTY, HONORING TELEVISION’S BIGGEST NIGHT, #Emmys2018

Emmy’s 2018 Best Dressed and Chicest List

La Jolla Fashion Film Festival 2018 ~ Is Fashion Dead or Not

A Fusion of Eastern and Western Fashion ~Michael Leyva