Our @herhattannyc #designerinthespotlight #photoshoot today made me #crave #summer more then ever! #cannotwait for #july2013 #edition #nyc #fashion #dreamteam #hhnyc #herhattannyc #manhattan never looked so good! #flattering #swimsuits #wowfactor
There is a trend we are loving right now and it reminds us of something that used to mesmerize us, as kids. Looking through a kaleidoscope, with its pretty patterns and colors, it’s no wonder designers are starting to finally be inspired by its nostalgic beauty. The kaleidoscope patterns that are adorning dresses all over NYC, have simply got us hooked. How about you?
(photo via: fellt)
(photo via: classy-lovely.tumblr.com)
Jelena Lasic is certainly a special spotlight for us, as she is a huge representation of the HerHattan brand. With her modern, fashionable illustrations that adorn HerHattanNYC.com (as well as our Facebook Page, Twitter Page, Pinterest Page, Google+ Page, and more), Lasic is the epitome of a HerHattan-esque girl.
Originally from Bosnia, Lasic came to New York City to study fashion design at Parsons The New School for Design. It was only a mere two years ago, when I spotted Lasic’s talents, as she started to illustrate fashionable women at a bar one night, in Manhattan’s Chelsea district. With a marker and a slice of paper in hand, in about 20 seconds flat, Lasic had drawn a rendition of a fashionable woman in the nightlife scene. It caught my eye. She caught me eye. From then on, Lasic has been HerHattan’s sole illustrator, bringing a sense of fashion and lifestyle to the brand.
Now, after graduating, falling in love, getting married, and moving to Croatia where Lasic is a proud mother, she has launched her own Jelena Lasic fashion line. When asked how she describes her designs, she explains, “The looks are very romantic and feminine… I really wanted my customer to have choices depending on what she feels like wearing at a certain time, and to dress for a specific occasion.”
So, what inspires this Bosnian beauty? “I enjoy the outdoors especially when taking long walks. When I take a break, I look around and start sketching because there is so much to see and be inspired by, and that’s where I find a lot of inspiration,” she explains. It is no wonder that Lasic is starting to set the tone for Croatia’s fashion scene, all-the-while keeping her roots from Bosnia, and her love for New York, still in tact.
Give us a little history on where you’re from, how you got to NYC, and then finally to Croatia.
I was born in Sarajevo, Bosnia. When the war started in 1992, my family and I moved to Germany when I was five-years-old, and then to the U.S. at age 12, when my parents decided that the U.S. would offer my brother and I the opportunity for a strong education and better life.
First, we moved to New Hampshire where I attended high school and started to compete in many art competitions throughout the state. I entered the NH Scholastic Awards annually and won numerous silver and gold key awards for my artwork. I have been painting and drawing since I was 10-years-old, and was mentored by a famous German-based painter, Azra Arapovic. During high school, I became interested in design, specifically clothes.
Fashion design is a great way to express my vision and creativity, which is why I decided to apply to Parsons The New School for Design, and that’s how I got to NYC. I finally ended up in Croatia, right after graduation, because LOVE brought me here! While studying and working in New York, I met my husband who was visiting NYC, and we fell in love. I became pregnant during my senior thesis, and right after graduation I moved to Croatia to give birth to my precious son, Karlo.
What’s one major fashion difference you noticed right away between Croatia and NYC?
Women in both cities, NYC and Zagreb, dress very similar. Yet, in NYC, I could see more women dressed down during the day, than I would in Zagreb, Croatia. It seems that women here are dressed for appearance 24/7. I also must say that the biggest fashion difference I’ve noticed is that for men. Almost all men here wear the man purse, which is very rare in NYC. Here, it’s a must-have for them at all times.
What do you think is the hardest part of studying fashion in NYC, and the most beneficial part?
The hardest part is definitely that the fashion industry is very competitive, and there are a lot of very talented designers in one place. You have to work really hard and be committed, but also stand out. The most beneficial part is that NYC offers endless opportunities for those who want to pursue a career in fashion.
How would you describe the styles/looks of your designs?
The looks are very romantic and feminine. I designed a mini-collection of 10 looks, offering my customer something for the day, to wear to work, and something for the evening, as well as editorial pieces. I really wanted my customer to have choices depending on what she feels like wearing at a certain time, and to dress for a specific occasion.
What was your inspiration behind your designs?
I enjoy the outdoors especially when taking long walks. When I take a break, I look around and start sketching because there is so much to see and be inspired by, and that’s where I find a lot of inspiration. The inspiration behind this specific collection followed the theme of nature, inspired by the flow of water, and tree rings, which is a reoccurring design element throughout the collection. The process of production included a lot of work done by hand.
Describe your personal style. Does your line represent your personal style as well?
Casual Chic. My personal style has changed over time, especially after becoming a mother. I started to move my style towards more comfortable and practical. My line certainly represents my point of view and looks I would wear.
When it comes to fashion, what is one rule by which you live?
It should always be about the overall look no matter what you choose to wear. You should always think about how to put it all together to create that one great look.
Who is your favorite designer?
What is your favorite store to shop at?
What advice can you give to other aspiring fashion designers studying in NYC?
Work hard, believe in yourself and follow your vision.
What can we look for next from you?
I am currently working on a Spring Summer Collection for 2013!
See more stories like this here.
Florals are not just for girly dresses and your grandmother’s tablecloth. This season designers have re-modernized the classic spring pattern, and now New York City girls and starlets alike, are traipsing the streets in colorful floral pants. This is an exciting new trend as it can be dressed down– paired with flats and a loose white tee– or worn with a blazer and killer heels to achieve fashionista status.
Taking inspiration from Olivia Palermo (who we adore, btw), don’t be afraid to ambitiously mix with other patterns, for a more daring look. J Brand Jeans released their popular interpretation of the trend done in a skinny jean, and stores like Urban Outfitters and Citizens of Humanity also offer great options in all combinations of colors. So, how would you pair the trend this season?
(via: lostinrubies)
(via: Ashley Madekwe)
(via: chictopia)
Don’t forget to take your fashion photo this week and send to us at info@HerHattanNYC.com, for the chance to win over $500 in designer items, and an exclusive fashion feature on our blog all about you and YOUR style! XOXO
We want to get a sense of your unique style!
Send us your best Street Chic Fashion Photo at info@HerHattanNYC.com. It must be a photo you take, either of yourself or of a friend. Go to our Contest App on our FB Page to get more details.
The Prize:
An exclusive fashion interview featured on our blog all about YOU, and a gift bag of clothing, jewelry and accessories worth over $500 from some of the designers we LOVE here in New York City!
Deadline:
June 1st
We will choose our favorite Street Chic Fashion Photo on the basis of most original and creative. Your photo will be uploaded onto our FB Page, so get your friends to LIKE it!
(only appropriate photos will be uploaded and entered; discretion of HerHattan, LLC)
*This promotion/contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.
Gift Bag prize will include items from:
Peplum, a cut originating from ancient Greece, has been modernized and is sweeping the runways, stores, and now every fashionable New York City girl’s wardrobe. It is no surprise that the style has become immensely popular among designers and shoppers alike, as it is very flattering to the female figure (accentuating her waist and minimizing her stomach) and easy to incorporate into many different looks. Couture designers such as Alexander McQueen and Prada have jackets and dresses with the style, and stores such as H&M and Anthropologie make the fashion available at a more consumer-friendly price through blouses and skirts. The look can be done in a business sense with a suit jacket, for a night out with a colorful dress, or casually through a simple top paired with cropped pants and heels. See photos below from fabulous blogs we LOVE, who know how to pair the peplum style the right way.
(via: decanter)
(via: what-id-wear)
(via: atickingtimebomb)
(via: brokeyoungandfabulous)
(via: The Prepster Diaries)
If you know us by now, you know we love to change our HerHattan Girl on our Facebook and Twitter pages every so often, bringing you new inspiration in fashion and beauty. We are so lucky to have an incredibly talented and beautiful illustrator, Jelena Lasic, who is an alumn from Parsons The New School for Design, and an up-and-coming fashion designer, on the cusp of launching her own fashion line.
We can’t wait to show you Jelena’s fashion line, as her own style is impeccable! She certainly is a designer that walks the walk, showing off a style that will represent her own designs.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and sign up for HerHattanNYC to be the first to know about all things fabulous in NYC! OH, and feel free to Pin our HerHattan Fashion Illustrations!
XoXo,
The HerHattan NYC Team
Crushworthy Moms, Alison Kleinert and Karina Lepiner, are those mommies that “look good while doing it.” By “it” we mean motherhood, and by “looking good” we mean style and confidence.
Kleinert and Lepiner founded and created CrushworthyMoms.com, a website that highlights successful, entrepreneurial mothers, who have style, grace, confidence and ambition, all-the-while taking on the most cherished and challenging duty of being a mother. CrushworthyMoms has featured mothers such as Jennifer Fisher of Jennifer Fisher Jewelry, Mathilde Thomas of Caudalie beauty products, and Melissa Meyers of Page Daily, just to name a few.
When we asked Kleinert and Lepiner, who their favorite mother has been so far, they said, “Ohh no, we can’t do that. Every mom is our favorite and each mother has been instrumental in teaching us about growth and peace of mind.” Truth be told, the women featured on CrushworthyMoms are inspiring, uplifting and empowering. Plus, their style is pretty great too!
How did you come up with the idea of CrushWorthyMoms?
Our youngest children began Kindergarten and we finally had some time to BREATHE!! We still wanted to be there when the kids got home but we wanted to build something and have a passion in our lives that was just for ourselves. We began to question who we admired and why. We loved these mothers who were creative in developing their own careers and still maintaining their “fabulousness.” We thought, how do they do it all?
(A CrushworthyMoms favorite: find it here)
What makes a Mom crush-worthy?
A Crushworthy Mom is someone who has built a lifestyle that works for her and her family. Every mother and family dynamic is different, but a mother is more present and vibrant with her children when she, herself, feels worthy of what she is accomplishing in her life.
When defining yourself as an entrepreneur, which one are you: heart, smarts or guts?
All. It takes a little of heart, smarts and guts to truly build a successful career. Just get off the couch!
Explain your different roles on CrushWorthyMoms.
We are both instrumental in building CrushworthyMoms and there is a nice balance to our relationship. The best partnerships are those in which each of you feel lucky to have the other one and we have that.
(A CrushworthyMoms favorite: find it here)
What do you think some mothers lack after entering motherhood?
You lose a sense of yourself because you become selfless and you must then build yourself up better than ever.
Give us one piece of advice in order to stay fabulous after entering motherhood.
Appreciate what you have and keep moving forward. Always have something for yourself and release the guilt about that, because at the end of the day it will be better for your family as well.
What is your own fashion style like?
Lepiner: I am a chameleon with my own sense of style. I dress according to my mood of the day.
Kleinert: I need a little hint of an edge to my outfit and being comfortable in my clothing is important. A lady doesn’t look good unless she feels comfortable in her own skin and clothes!
Favorite shop in Manhattan?
Ludivine, consignment shops to find something original, and boutique shopping
Where do you get your nails done in Manhattan?
Great place on 70th Street that gives you multiple massages and mani/pedi for under $30!
What’s your best beauty tip?
Eat well, drink lots of water, and moisturize (switch up your moisturizer)! Also, cheek stains won’t hurt anyone.
What can we look for next from CrushWorthyMoms?
More fabulous Moms, tips, and tricks!! xx
Kara Laricks has been our fashion star since March 21st, 2011, when we wrote about her Collar, Stand + Ties and her “glorious dust,” as she called it– “Believe in your vision. Keep your mind wide open and be both patient and diligent. Focus on the positive tiny steps you make. And for those who may doubt you? Leave them in your glorious dust!” And she certainly did, as nothing held her back from keeping the confidence and authentic style she embodied from the start.
NBC picked up Laricks on the new hit TV series, Fashion Star, which airs every Tuesday evening. With only a few more episodes left, Laricks has stolen the fashion heart of Saks Fifth Avenue starting from episode two. From then on, Saks just cannot seem to get enough (as can’t we).
Fashion Star or not, one of the best qualities about this star-rising, blue-eyed lady, is her continuous positive and personable attitude towards life and ambitions. When asked if being a fourth grade teacher made an impact on her fashion career, she said, “There is no doubt in my mind that being a teacher prepared me for my fashion career. I learned how to work with and organize so many different types of people, how to balance 50 tasks in any given moment and how to use my passion to inspire others. I think those are skills that would benefit me in any career I pursue.”
We know Laricks’s students are watching her today, and cheering her on in style. Read on to find out what is in store next for Laricks, who has us wanting to pair every single outfit with a unisex tie or androgynous jacket. (Oh-so-unisexy!)
On the first episode, you came out with your signature Collar, Stand + Ties, and the buyers were unsure of what you could bring to the table; how did you go from a brilliant accessory designer to designing that first dress?
I told myself before ever agreeing to go on Fashion Star that I would stay true to my aesthetic and design as if I were designing in my Lower East Side apartment. The first challenge on Fashion Star was to design my “signature piece.” My collar, stand + tie IS my signature piece. I am constantly inspired by menswear and my ties are the basis for all that I design. If you look closely at each design from week to week on Fashion Star, you will see a “shout out” to my ties– whether it’s in the shape of the pattern pieces or a little bit more literal– it’s there.
Where did the idea of that first dress come from? Was it something you always imagined designing?
The dress I designed on the second episode was far from the first dress I have ever designed. When I graduated from the Academy of Art in San Francisco in 2008, I showed a small collection in Bryant Park– complete with dresses, pants, etc. I started designing accessories because they were what I could afford to produce on my own. In walks the Fashion Star opportunity… and the rest is history. I have always wished for the opportunity to design cost/worry free and Fashion Star was that opportunity. As I watch what I was able to create in a very limited amount of time on Fashion Star, it makes me extremely excited for the future.
Saks Fifth Avenue has bought your designs five times now; how does it feel to have one of the most high-end reputable department stores on Fifth Avenue be such a supporter of your designs?
Just reading your question gave me the chills. I have always admired the designers that hang in Saks Fifth Avenue– Yohji Yamamoto, YSL, Marc Jacobs– the list goes on. I know in my heart that I am a high-end designer because I have such a love for gorgeous fabrics, elegant design and intelligent cut/drape. I also have a deep admiration for the artistry that is displayed in garments sold in Saks Fifth Avenue. To be counted amongst those artists is almost more than I can handle. I am humbled and honored.
By far, you are certainly one of the most successful (if not the most successful!) designer on FASHION STAR right now; what do you think is the most important quality to have when going through each week and facing the judges and buyers?
Without question, I believe that a confidence deep down inside about what I represent and how it is conveyed in my designs got me through from week to week. Though I may appear emotional on stage, what you see is my long time dream coming true. I just couldn’t hold back the tears.
In hindsight, I was certainly a sponge during my time on Fashion Star. I tried to soak in each bit of expertise I was so fortunate to receive from both the buyers and the mentors.
Your designs are certainly one-of-a-kind, original and innovative; did you ever doubt that people would not like your creations? What made you move past any doubts or fears you may have had?
I know that my design aesthetic is not for everyone . But, I do not aim to design for everyone. I want my customer to feel like she is getting something different, something special– a garment that really stands for something unique. I feel that dressing is an important way to express ourselves and we are all unique. I certainly don’t want to look like four or five other people on the train each morning and I think my customer wants to stand apart from the crowd as well. I feel like it’s my job as a designer to give her those garments, and give her that confidence. If I had any doubts or fears going into the show, they quickly faded away when I realized the powerful platform I had to reach “my girls.”
We saw on your FB Page that tomorrow’s episode will give you the unique opportunity to define your brand! Can you give us three words that describe your brand best?
Masculine meets Feminine, Intelligent + Innovative, Unique (I realize that’s more than three, but I couldn’t resist!)
After FASHION STAR is over, what do you plan on doing with the Kara Laricks brand? What is the next step for you that we can look forward to?
My dreams continue to come true day-by-day… my first order of business will be to try to make available all of the garments that were not purchased on Fashion Star that so many women want! I see big things in the future and promise to keep you posted.
So, who was your favorite judge on FASHION STAR?
John Varvatos’s climb to success, knowledge of design and embodiment of his brand was incredibly inspiring. Jessica has one of the warmest, most encouraging hearts I know. Nicole has that effortlessly cool air about her, and was so concise and clear in her critique. Caprice from Macy’s is so articulate and passionate, and Nikki is such a strong advocate for her H&M customer. But Terron, sweet Terron, I called him “The Godfather.” His confidence in my vision was simply empowering.
What is the one valuable lesson you’ve learned from being on FASHION STAR week by week?
As for one valuable lesson– I learned that believing in your vision is vital. If you believe, others will too. Again, simply empowering.
This past Wednesday, we had the pleasure of attending the private preview event for the Taste of Tribeca annual festival that will be on May 19th this year. The private event was hosted by the charming, Sarabeth’s Kitchen on Greenwich Street. Chefs from ten different restaurants and bakeries presented each tasting, and explained their involvement in Taste of Tribeca.
Every year, Taste of Tribeca hosts the infamous festival, rain or shine, where thousands of guests purchase tickets to try a variety of eats from high-end fancy restaurants to smaller mom-and-pop establishments, to the eat-on-the-go places and sweet-savory bakeries too! The only requirement is that each eatery must be located in Tribeca (and not even two blocks shy thereof).
Buy your ticket before May 1st to get the “Early Bird” special, for only $40, right here. Buying a ticket helps to raise money for PS150 and PS234’s arts and enrichment programs. The event goes from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., but don’t wait until the last hour to get started!
Since we got the sneak peek on what to expect, we thought we’d share with you a little bite of what will be at the festival, day of!
Restaurant: Sarabeth’s
Chef: Lee Scheffler
Plate: Crabcake sliders served with a cookie
Review: This slider honestly tasted like it was fresh out of the oven. The bun was soft and airy and the crab was lean, with a crisp outside and light herbs.
Restaurant: The Palm
Chef: Luis Nieto
Plate: Braised short rib with horseradish cream sauce
Review: Sitting in a tiny pie shell and drizzled with a horseradish cream, this short rib had the perfect accompaniments.
Restaurant: Kutcher’s
Chef: Mark Spangenthal
Plate: House cured pastrami on rye with mustard & health salad
Review: Best pastrami we’ve ever had. Period.
Restaurant: Tre Sorelle
Chef: Gonnaro Martinelli
Plate: Stuffed spaghetti pie and rice ball and a panna cotta dessert
Review: The stuffed spaghetti was like a mac-n-cheese pie, and the mousse cream was succulent!
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Restaurant: Grandaisy Bakery
Chef: Cristobal Julio Guarchaj
Plate: Roman style pizza
Review: So good, the waiter took it away too fast!
Restaurant: Pane Panelle
Chef: Paul Di Bari
Plate: Polpette meatballs in tomato sauce
Review: The meatballs were so good that we dived right in and forgot to take a photo.
Restaurant: Walker’s
Chef: Ronnie Esposito
Plate: Pulled pork sandwich with cole slaw and watermelon wedge
Review: This is amongst the favorites every year, as these sandwiches are some of the first to go on the day of the event. Map out your tour accordingly.
Restaurant: Blaue Gans
Chef: Kurt Gutenbrunner (not pictured here), Pictured above is his lovely Pastry Chef
Plate: Strawberry and Elderflower coup
Review: First, sip it using the straw, then scoop out the fruits. Very refreshing!
Restaurant: Bubby’s
Chef: Ron Silver and Dani Finkel-Pitney
Plate: Apple Brown Betty
Review: This savory dessert reminded us of when we were kids and loved Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies! But, this was fresher, nuttier and sweeter. So good!
Restaurant: Billy’s Bakery
Chef: Molly Jahn
Plate: Red velvet and chocolate cupcake with an oatmeal fruit bar
Review: If you’ve never had Billy’s, you have not lived! The cupcakes are moist, the icing is creamy and sweet (but not too sweet), and the overall experience is addictive.
See details on the Taste of Tribeca Festival here.
Crissy Rose McWeeney, of The House of Makeup, explains how to get this gorgeous up-do for the summer or for any special event coming up!
(photo via: b-ianca)
