H&M said Beckham’s new line would be sold in some 1800 of the company’s stores in about 40 countries worldwide.”It marks the beginning of a significant relationship between H&M and David Beckham, with new bodywear products being launched seasonally,” the company said in a press release.

Since his wife is a well known fashion designer, I guess Beckham decided to give it a try. He’s been working on the collection with his team over the past year. “I am excited and looking forward to showcasing the range to H&M customers from February,” he said.

The head designer of H&M, Ann-Sofie Johansson, admired Beckham and was excited for his work; calling him a “true icon of both style and sport.”

“It is the start of an amazing adventure for us at H&M,” she said about their partnership.

Beckham’s business partner, Simon Fuller, stated the partnership with H&M was an important step for him. Simon was also behind the successful launch of Victoria Beckham’s (his wife) fashion label. ”H&M’s enthusiasm and support for this venture, combined with their scale and reach, will continue to enhance the power of David’s image around the world.”

Two years ago, Beckham appeared in many Armani billboards modeling underwear. They later reported a 150% increase in sales for men’s underwear because of his appearance.

Despite having the influence to inspire trends, Beckham had a downfall in the fashion effect. In 2002, he launched clothing for children under the name DBO7 and it failed to set a new mark in children’s fashion.

Hopefully, his new line will be a success. He has experience in marketing underwear, but will his new line do well with H&M. What do you think?

Meanwhile, family and friends gather to say goodbye to Winehouse at a private funeral ceremony in London today. Kelly Osbourne and Producer Mark Ronson were among mourners who arrived for the service at Edgwarebury Cemetery in north London. Kelly styled her hair in a high beehive of the singer’s trademark.

During her career, she released two albums, winning five Grammy awards for her, “Back to Black” album while making headlinesbecause of an eating disorder, destructive relationships and drug abuse. Although, her career ran short, Winehouse has made an impact on others in a tremendous way.

Since her death, her records have re-entered the charts around the world and tributes were given by fans and fellow musicians. Many celebrities went to Twitter to share their thoughts about Winehouse.

“Such a talented girl, and a girl with such a huge future, but our hearts go out to her family, her loved ones. And everyone in the world feels sad we have lost someone with such great talent. Everyone’s love goes out to her family,” said David Beackham.

Kelly Osbourne said, “I love you forever Amy & will never forget the real you!”

Winehouse had a unique sense of style that caught much attention.  For years, Winehouse wore Fred Perry designs who she later partnered with to start a fashion line.  In October 2010, Winehouse put her fashion skills to use and sparked a 17-piece collection of  pencil skirts, twinsets, wide belts,and gingham shirt dresses. Pink and black are predominant colors in collection.

Amy Winehouse collection was inspired by the 50′s and 60′s. During her launch at Fred Perry’s London store, Winehouse performed wearing an outfit from the collection, a V-neck sweater dress with black and pink checks. Below are a few photos from her collection. Take a look! Want more information about Amy’s collection, go to fredperry.com.

Knitted Cardigan

Sleeveless Shirt Dress

Checkboard Shirt

From dazzling swimwear to a new creative look in digital makeup, it’s NARS and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

This year, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim was better than ever with international designers showcasing their 2012 swimwear collection. As they showcased their line of work, Mercedes-Benz gave insiders a first hand look at the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe. Can I say gorgeous? The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was a 5-day event from July 14-18, 2011 which was held in Miami, Fla. Many designers were featured at The Raleigh for their line of work. They were: LUXE, by Lisa Vogel, Diesel, Beach Bunny Swimwear, L*Space by Monica Wise, Caffé Swimwear, Mara Hoffman Swim, Aqua Di Lara, A Ché, Natori, Cia.Marítima, and Luli Fama.

Lisa Holladay, manager of brand experience marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA said, “Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim attendees can always count on seeing unique swimsuit style concepts for the first time that represent designer labels from around the world. It sets the stage to premier our latest designs like the all-new 2012 C-Class Coupe to those on the cutting-edge of fashion.”

Having Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at a different location this year, gave it a unique atmosphere with new attractions. Swimwear was very colorful and vibrant with the most unique cover ups I have ever seen. Below I have selected a few styles that I thought were some of the best swimwear for 2012.

One of my favorite swimwear collection was by Paula Saavedra called, “Caffe.” Her collection is Colombian luxury woman’s beachwear. It’s stylish and chic giving women the confidence to wear for their glam beach wardrobe. Her collection is crafty and luxurious for every women to wear. Below are a few pictures of her amazing collection.

Next, is White Sands Australia swimwear collection. This collection was crafted by Leah Madden. Her sense of style is carefully designed with signature prints and chic silhouttes. Leah’s effortless designs are for women who want there casual chic lifestyle portrayed through their beachwear. Take a look at some of her amazing designs.

For more information about Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, go to Miami Benz Fashion Week website (Here).

NARS Relaunches E-Commerce Site

NARS, founded in 1994 by Francis Nars, has decided to relaunch their brand into a e-commerce site. NARS Cosmetics is the beauty brand for modern independent women. They inspire women to express their individual beauty.

Recently, NARS Cosmetics has announced that their beauty brand has officially re-launched www.narscosmetics.com into a e-commerce site. CREATETHEGROUP provided digital services including strategy, photography, build, design, user experience and system integrations. Also, the new site features “The Wardrobe,” which is a visual wish list that allows shoppers to create personalized makeup kits based on individual style, tastes and even events. As stated in the news release, “To create personalized Wardrobes, shoppers can access the entire NARS makeup product catalog, giving them hundreds of unique options to choose from.”

“The re-launch of narscosmetics.com is a significant step in our strong commitment to evolving the overall digital brand presence for NARS,” said Louis Desazars, CEO, Nars Cosmetics. “We felt strongly that we needed to create a comprehensive online experience that was truly reflective of the brand heritage coupled with a high-impact luxury shopping environment.”

You can find NARS Cosmetics at various department stores at thyour nearest mall.

Go ahead, check out their new website. You’ll love it! (Click here)

Marc Anthony, actor, musician, singer, songwriter, and producer is the top selling tropical salsa artist of all time. He has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and is best known for his Latin salsa numbers and ballads. He has also appeared on various films like Man on Fire, Bringing out the Dead, and Hackers.

JLo released her latest album, titled “Love?” this year. Was the album a cry for help? If so, we can see why. Her career skyrocketed, but other parts of her life was slowly fading. Although, Marc Anthony and JLo suddenly split they will remain in partnership with Kohl’s (new clothing line).

Last November, the couple made a deal with the retailer to launch a new apparel and accessory line which includes sportswear, shoes, dresses, suits and handbags for fall 2011. Also, their plans were to add a home collection later in the year.

“These are really exciting times for us and our family and we are looking forward to collaborating with Kohl’s in the creation of a lifestyle brand that represents our true style and the essence of who we are and what we have come to represent as artists,” said the couple last November.

Regardless of their decision, we are glad that they have continued on with  a Kohl’s collection. Fashion must always prevail.

Now onto interesting news, the most fashion forward look today is athletic sportswear and runway-couture. This form of fashion, in which many people do not know about, has led to the look of bikinis, tennis shorts, and bike shorts. This influence of sportswear has gone on since the 19th century when women wore split skirts for biking.

Remember when dance wear turned into street wear and the lovable scuba dresses that supermodels wore in the 90′s? Those styles were trends back then, yet they were also inspiration for designers becoming favorites for consumers. Skiing, yachting and figure skating are aspects of the sportswear which adopted the look of country club players. This expanded with known brands such as Ralph Lauren’s  jakcets and Jean Paul Gaultiers jumpsuits. Without such inspiration from sports, athletic wear would not merge into fashion today.

Collen Hill, co-curator of an exhibit at the Museum at FIT ((Fashion Institute of Technology) says, “Fashion is interested not just in the look of sportswear, but the materials. But true active sportswear also wants to be modern-looking. Being fashion-forward will drive sales.”

Will you be sporting the althletic look?

To read more about sports wear merging into fashion, go to The Advertiser.

Fashion Stylist Rachel Matthews Burton will guide you through fab fashion. As said in a press release, “At the end of the two hour FunShop, Burton will talk one-on-one with the group and answer any of your style questions. You can also bring in a troublesome outfit and get her expert advice on how to pull it off- or how to create new looks from your go to wardrobe pieces.” How awesome is that!

If you do not know who Rachel Matthews Burton is, she is one of the top Canadian stylist  and televsion personality nationally and internationally. She’s has lent her style expertise to ET Cananda, Behind the Lens, Cananda AM and many more.

 Rachel says, “Women make decisions based on their self esteem and that includes their wardrobe choices. At the FunShop I encourage women to turn down their inner critic and offer them practical tools and tips to look their best.

One of the major benefits to this seminar is that a portion of proceeds from every FunShop will be donated to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Also, spokesperson Sheryl Gill will share her survival story (cardiac survivor) at the Fun Fashion Seminar.

The RacktoRack Fashion Funshop Seminar will be held at The Foundry Lofts, 1100 Lansdowne Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M6H 4K1.  The price to attend two Funshops seminar is $40.00. To register, email info@racktotrack.com with your name, FunShop date you would like to attend and number of tickets. If you are one of the first 45 people to sign up, you will receive a gift bag from SoulBeautiful.ca filled with amazing style tools.

Dates of Seminar:

Sunday, July 17, 2:30pm

Tuesday: July 19th at 11:00 am

Wednesday: July 20th at 7:00pm

For more information visit the www.racktorack.comand follow Rachel on Twitter @ RacktoTack.

Ladies, imagine a collection that strives to bring you affordable accessories while enhancing your wardrobe. Imagine a collection that gives you the opportunity to make a fashion statement you’ve always wanted.  Well… no need to imagine any longer,

Soulbeautiful.ca helps you enhance your natural beauty with the Soul Beautiful Silicone Enhancer Collection. The collection has  solutions which fixes wardrobe malfunctions with any bra in seconds. The Soul Beautiful enhancers and accessories are designed to make women feel confident while showcasing your inner beauty.

SoulBeautiful.ca recently launched and has become Canada’s one stop shop for silicone enhancers and bra accessories. The enhancers and accessories are given to illuminate women’s beauty, confidence, and story. Being women themselves, Soul Beautiful knows a collection that presents a unique, customizable, and affordable accessories will provide women with the chance to shape and enhance their overall look.

 Soul Beautiful has 5 Must Haves for Summer:

• Enhancer Collection-creates natural cleavage, lift and shape.

• Bathing Suit Enhancer-gives you extra oomph and support in your bikini.

• Fashion Tape-keeps strapless numbers & any clothing in place.

• Strap Solutions-transforms your bra into an instant racer back.

• Nipple Covers-creates smooth looks under sheer and clingy fabrics.

The Enhancer Collection will enhance your bust-line by one, two, or even three sizes. The regular enhancer is made of  a soft silicone material that will feel like your own. Costing only $25.99, this enhancer is a perfect fit and feel giving you a natural confidence. 

The Toolkit Collection consists of four different wardrobe solutions such as nipple covers, fashion tape, bra extender hooks, and strap solutions. These four products range from $5.99 to $7.99. You can’t beat that price!

The Bra Strap Collection is one of my favorites. This collection provides bra straps in various ways. Some are stylish and others are clear giving you the variety to style your bra according to what you wear. This collection price ranges from $5.99 to $8.99.

Last but not least, Bags and Accessories Collection which will help you store and travel in style. These accessories are amazingly designed to dazzle up your look. In this collection is a lingerie bag to protect your undergarments. Including accessory travel cases, convient and affordable. Prices to be announced.

To see how Soul Beautiful product really works, try the interactive dressing room experience on their website. The dressing room will enable you to try the enhancers and accessories on a real model. There you will see the difference Soul Beautiful enhancers make in lingerie, a t-shirt, dresses and swimwear.

You can view Soul Beautiful collection online by going to www.soulbeautiful.ca. Also, follow them on Twitter @SoulBeautifulCA and on Facebook  http://on.fb.me/g7h6YS.

Let your beauty glow. Tell your story with Soul Beautiful.

From five-time tennis player champion to an epic decline by one of the world’s most famous designers is this week’s fashion news update. Venus Williams, prominently known as the African- American tennis player who has been ranked World No. 1 by the Women’s Tennis Association on three separate occasions has a fashion line. The clothing line was launched in 2007 with Steve & Barry’s clothing line but it declared bankruptcy in early 2009 and closed its stores. Venus Williams clothing line EleVen, is designed to be versatile on the tennis court as well as on the street for a casual appearance. The collection includes dresses, accessories, pants, shoes, and warm up suits.

Since Venus is proud of her collection, she decided to sport her latest wear at Wimbleton. A complete fashion shocker in a match against Uzbekistan’s Akgul Amanmuradova. She wore a white jumper with gold accents on zipper and belt including a design above her chest.

The top half of her jumper seemed a bit too baggy as she ran back and forth across the court, adding too much attention to the upper part of her body. Plus, the jumper seemed to be a bit too short for Venus as she swung during the match. It was so short that you could view her golden shorts underneath. I am shocked that Venus chose to wear this ensemble. It’s different when your forced to wear an outfit from a sponsor, but choosing to market your clothing line is a big risk especially if it turns out to be a disaster such as this. Maybe not the best choice for Venus during a tennis game, but I’d say it was a cute outfit.

Although her outfit seemed a disaster, the design and materials used was a great choice. The cotton fabric and leafy design helped make the outfit. If it were used to make a sun dress, the outfit would have been a success. Let’s just hope Venus learned from this fashion disaster. 

Onto our next fashion news update, Azzedine Alaia is a successful designer since the 1980′s. He has recently turned down a job offer to replace John Galliano at Christian Dior.

During Fashion Week, many fashion bloggers and writers were wondering who would replace John Galliano. Many had no clue that Azzedine was chosen to replace him. Even being offered the opportunity to do so, Azzedine turned down the offer and told the paper himself that he did not want the job offer at Dior. He didn’t feel it was right for him to work at Christian Dior.

People have said he was flattered, but was just not interested. After speaking with John and knowing what happened,  he did not want to be apart of the next chapter.

Azzedine Alaia is not the first designer to be offered the position. Riccardo Tisci, head of Givenchy, is also in the running for the head position. He has refused to confirm what his future holds.

Riccardo says to Contactmusic.com that, “I don’t know what will happen. Sincerely, I feel sorry for John. But for this moment I am leaving aside all the gossip of ‘I am going here, I am going there,’ because there is a lot of gossip circulating and there always will be. I will tell you, in this moment, I am very happy at Givenchy and it is a moment in which I am bringing the game to the next level. So I tell you, I feel at home. It’s as if it were my son. I don’t know how to explain it. It would be very difficult for me to leave.”

What do you guys think about this week’s fashion news update? Do you think Azzedine made the right choice by turning down the job offer and do you think Venus should give up on wearing her latest designs?

Promoting the value of design, The Design Exchange (DX) is a  non-profit educational organization in Canada that devotes a greater awareness of fashion design. They impact the lives of youth by building substantial relationships though communication, teaching design disciplines, utilizing educators, businesses and the general public through programs, exhibits, lectures, and workshops. This involvement plays a role in stabilizing the youth through economic growth and cultural vitality. The Design Exchange mission is to promote the value of Canadian designs, through engaging and enriching programs.

Gearing up for a summer filled with amazing fashion, Design Exchange in Toronto has a great year of tremendous summer camp sessions.  ”This year’s line-up of summer camp sessions includes Vintage Couture, Fashion TV, and Essential Fashion which will explore the iconic little black dress and essential accessories.” Katie Weber, Camp Director says,”The week-long sessions are not just inspiring for the young designers who participate, but it’s also a chance to meet some amazing working designers and explore the career possibilities within the world of fashion.” In previous years at camp, they have had guest speakers such as Lucian Matis and David Dixon, who offered words of encouragement to the youth about following their dreams and not giving up. 

For the first week of camp, It’s all about drama & design for ages 7 to 14 including the fashion basics for ages 10 to 12. In drama and design, the youth will develop a performance, learn about the involvement of theatre with staging, costuming, and makeup. ”All enrolled campers will be treated to a performance for themselves and their parents to attend the Canadian Stage TD Dream in High Park, including a backstage tour.  Participants will perform their masterpiece for family and friends on Friday July 8th.” As for fashion basics, they will learn the basics of illustration, patterns, and stitching. “Participating in hands-on projects will include an a-line skirt, fashion tote, and a host of accessories.  An opportunity to meet a local designer and visit a working studio will also be included in this exciting week.”

For the second week of camp, they will enjoy another opportunity in drama and design. Again, they will put on an amazing performance for family and friends showcasing what they’ve learned throughout the week. Within the second week, youth ages 12 to 14 will learn about costume designing. They will work with the drama and design camp being the official wardrobe designers for that said production.  

In weeks four through eight, the youth will embark on a journey of fashion like no other. From fashion styling to vintage couture, this summer camp is inspiring for all youth of all ages. Design Camp gives a creative look for today’s youth which leads their summer into a fun filled camp of fabulous fashion.

For more information about Design Camp (Click here) to receive summaries of their weekly activities. Also, you can download the registration package to get your child signed up for this wonderful opportunity.

Want more information about this great camp and Design Exchange? Go to their website www.dx.org  or contact Katie Weber, Camp Director at 416.216.2138  or katie[at]dx.org.

Born in Toronto, Canada on October 24, 1989, Shenae Grimes felt led to make a name for herself. She has appeared in seven films, seven televsion shows, and two music videos which of one she has written, directed, and song.

Being a famailiar face in show biz was not the only thing she had in mind for her life. She also wanted to explore the world of fashion. After interning at Toronto’s Fashion Television during her high school education, Shenae wanted to explore her love for fashion.

She explored her passion for fashion through her roles in television. Shenae knew that as an actress you must look the part by doing so Shenae wanted to dress the part. Wearing the latest in chic wear and accessories.

Her passion for fashion has led her into the internship of her dreams. She was given an opportunity of a lifetime to intern with Teen Vogue in New York. Of course, she took the internship with total excitement. Shenae is spending her summer assisting many editors, pulling clothes for shoots, and even blogging. She’s not a typical intern. As stated in MyMag, ”Shenae is shadowing everyone.” Since, she is not being paid for the internship and is not a college student who’s compensating for college credit, Shenae is more like an extra hand in the office. Boy, does she love the world of fashion!

Shenae received her internship very easily. She explained how tired she was of LA and wanted to go to New York. She spoke to her publicist and got the contact of the editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue (Amy Astley) and emailed her about interning there. The editor said she was daring in doing so.Yet, Shenae had a passion for fashion. She later recieved the internship position at Teen Vogue.

Fashion is Shenae’s first love. She says, “It’s really my roots, and I want to learn more about the fashion industry. I prefer being behind the camera and watching the glamorous world.” Realizing her passion for fashion, Shenae may soon be the next fashion mogul for the next generation. Don’t you think?

Some of my favorite styles on Shenae Grimes are:

This is one of my favorite ensembles from Shenae. In her gorgeous nude skirt and polka dot top, which usually doesn’t go together looks perfectly when she’s wearing it. She decided to wear her hair up while showing her scooped neckline.  Being the fashionista that she is, the pleated nude chiffon skirt finishes mid calf which is a length that shows popularity during this time. Her nude shoes tops the outift off by adding length to her legs.

Another great look from Shenae, sporting a leopard print fur jacket with a loose grey tee and some leather leggings. She decided to keep her jewelery  simple with a gold thick chain and a gold ring. Also, she adds some color with her red shade of lipstick. Even her bag makes her entire look seem a little casual, but it is perfect since she’s out and about for the evening.

Suiting her perfectly, Shenae rocks black high heels, high-fashioned pants with a fitted top. Not adding too much glam to her sleek look, she accessories with a silver bracelet and charm like earring. Her nails and lip color are the same red-orange shade adding a little color to her overall look.

“On Monday, June 6th, 2011 CFDA Fashion Awards recognized various contributions to American fashion by individuals from all areas of the industry with awards being given for their massive creativity for womenswear, menswear, assesories including accomplishments in journalism, creative vision and lifetime achievement award.”

This year’s nominees and honorees are acknowledged for their accomplishment of American fashion and the influence that a new generation of talent is having on the industry while also celebrating the masters of design. The nominees and honorees are as follows:

WOMENSWEAR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
Alexander Wang
Jack McCollough & Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler
Marc Jacobs

MENSWEAR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
Michael Bastian
Patrik Ervell
Simon Spurr

ACCESSORY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
Alexander Wang
Jack McCollough & Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler
Reed Krakoff

SWAROVSKI AWARD FOR WOMENSWEAR
Joseph Altuzarra
Ashley Olsen & Mary-Kate Olsen
Prabal Gurung

SWAROVSKI AWARD FOR MENSWEAR
Alexander Wang
Phillip Lim
Robert Geller

SWAROVSKI AWARD FOR ACCESSORY DESIGN
Alejandro Ingelmo
Eddie Borgo
Jason Wu
Pamela Love

INTERNATIONAL AWARD
Phoebe Philo for Celine

MEDIA AWARD, given in honor of Eugenia Sheppard
Hilary Alexander

FOUNDERS AWARD, given in honor of Eleanor Lambert, the CFDA’s founder
Hal Rubenstein

FASHION ICON AWARD
Lady Gaga

GEOFFREY BEENE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Marc Jacobs

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ SPECIAL TRIBUTE
Arthur Elgort

Now, I am not sure if you’ve noticed, but Lady Gaga was honored for the Fashion Icon Award this year. Some may say she does deserve it and others may say she doesn’t. Who’s to say really?! I believe the award should go to Gaga because fashion has no limits and Gaga definitely shows that it doesn’t. In her bizarre hair styles and overly exposed outfits, Gaga has given us the most unpredictable outfits of all time. Hats off to Lady Gaga!!

Congrats to all the honorees and nominees, they all deserved an award! I was excited to find out that Alexander Wang won an award including Marc Jacobs, they are some of my favorite designers. The winners and other honorees are:

Womenswear Designer of the Year
Jack McCollough & Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler
 

Menswear Designer of the Year
Michael Bastian

Accessory Designer of the Year
Alexander Wang

Swarovski Award for Womenswear
Prabal Gurung

Swarovski Award for Menswear
Robert Geller

Swarovski Award for Accessory Design
Eddie Borgo

Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award
Marc Jacobs

International Award
Phoebe Philo for Céline

The Media Award, given in honor of Eugenia Sheppard
Hilary Alexander, The Telegraph

The Founder’s Award, given in honor of CFDA Founder Eleanor Lambert
Hal Rubenstein, InStyle

Board of Directors’ Special Tribute
Arthur Elgort

My favorite best dressed celebrities at CFDA are:

Whitney Port

Whitney Port is glammed up in a dazzling Pamella Roland gown. The gown is a simple look, with feather like designs at the top and specs of light jewels to follow. I love her accessories. Who would have thought to wear those earrings with this dress? So cute.

Lucy Liu

The wonderful Lucy Liu looked amazing at the red carpet event. She wore a mouth-dropping  black Monique Lhuillier dress with the perfect handbag to match. Although, it’s nothing new for Lucy to appear as beautiful as she is, it’s surprising that she wore this gown to CFDA. Can you say breathtaking?

Alessandra Ambrosio

You can never go wrong in a flawless gown such as this. Alessandra wore a red Prabal Gurung v-neck gown with a semi-long tail. She chose a great dress for this evening’s occasion. I would love to own this dress. Wouldn’t you?

 Jessica Alba

Last but not least, Jessica Alba wears a orange and purple Diane Von Furtstenberg gown with the perfect nude colored shoes. Isn’t she just glowing…. her jewelry was of Fallon looking ever so trendy. I say Jessica looked very graceful while walking on the red carpet.

For more information about The Council of Fashion Designers of America go to there website (here).