GUESS announced multiple Latin Grammy Award Winner J Balvin as the face of the GUESS Spring 2019 campaign. The singer stars in the advertising campaign alongside models Sofia Jamora, Kara Del Toro, Xian Mikol, and Gabriela Giovanardi in a series of images shot in Miami, Florida.
Hailing from Medellín, Colombia, Balvin is a leader of the second-generation reggaetón revolution propelling Latin Urban music o global success, with eleven #1 Latin singles, more than 50 million social media followers, and over 10 billion total YouTube views. He is currently leading the nominations for this year’s Latin Grammy and Latin AMA Awards.
“It has been a blessing to change the game with GUESS by bringing the fashion world into some of the tour merchandise for the VIBRAS tour. It’s been a perfect fit for my style, and the reaction among fans has been so wonderful. I’m very happy to now bring our partnership to another level,” Balvin says.
The campaign captures Balvin wearing a selection of pieces from the ‘GUESS Vibras’ capsule throughout the streets of Little Haiti, a popular Miami neighborhood.
“I am thrilled to launch this new collaboration with global music superstar, tastemaker and innovator, J Balvin,” says PaulMarciano. “When we met last year at Complex Con, I was extremely impressed with his knowledge of contemporary art, fashion and culture. We connected immediately, realizing that we share the same values and passions. I am a huge fan of his music, particularly because reggaetón is about positive energy and messages. Through the years, Balvin has played an integral role in rapidly changing the entire landscape of pop music as a reggaetón singer and I am always inspired and energized to work with these types of creative forces.”
Look for these J Blavin ads beginning mid-January 2019 in top fashion and lifestyle magazines, GUESS’ social platforms, and in GUESS retail stores.
One of the pitfalls of attending a fashion show is knowing that many of the looks presented will not available until a future date. Waiting months to have next season’s hottest look is tough, but H&M has found a way to bring their most fashion savvy customers exactly what they want, when they want.
H&M offers online purchases immediately after runway unveiling
During Paris Fashion Week, H&M will launch their first-ever ‘see now, buy now’ show on March 1st. It will be available to customers on hm.com immediately after the show and in select stores beginning March 2nd. The fashion show will include key womenswear looks, and for the first time, will also show a full menswear collection.
“Bringing fashion immediately from catwalk to checkout marks a new era for the fashion industry and we are very much looking forward to testing this exciting new format. We also want to share this moment with our customers and are therefore showing the fashion show live on our website. We hope they will enjoy it and find inspiration on how to mix the pieces to express their own personal style,” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Head of Design and Creative Director.
Studio is the name of H&M’s elevated seasonal collections, created by H&M’s core design team featuring limited-edition pieces full of on trend key looks and statement pieces for the season. The first Studio collection launched back in Fall/Winter of 2013 with a show during Paris Fashion Week made to align with the runway calendars. In 2017, H&M continues to celebrate their love for democratic fashion, now offering the H&M Studio S/S’17 collection directly to their customers. For Spring/Summer 2017, traditional tailoring techniques meet with the functionality and high-tech elements of sportswear in a fresh and modern clash pulling inspiration from the grace, passion and strength of the ballet movement.
Tommy Hilfiger has debuted his Fall 2015 women’s runway collection at the Park Avenue Armory during New York Fashion Week earlier today. The collection fuses football themes and varsity motifs with Hilfiger’s classic American sportswear designs.
As a tribute to the brand’s 30th anniversary, exclusive styles that premiere on the runway will be instantly available to purchase on tommy.com.
“Our inspiration this season is rooted in one of the most iconic and inclusive American past-times: football,” said Tommy Hilfiger. “This Fall we will celebrate our 30th anniversary with limited-edition product available to our consumers the moment the look steps onto the runway.”
The limited-edition Hilfiger Collection designs are emblazoned with the number of the brand’s milestone birthday, and styles include a varsity-inspired faux fur V-neck sweater in burgundy or oyster gray, and a zip-top leather oversized clutch in five colors.
Continuing Tommy Hilfiger’s tradition of fashion week collaborations with social media innovators, the 30th anniversary sweater and clutch will debut on the Tommy Hilfiger Twitter stream, seconds before stepping onto the runway, using the popular Twitter Mirror. The only brand to host the Twitter Mirror backstage at New York Fashion Week, the partnership provides an exclusive preview of key looks in Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall 2015 runway collection.
H&M has announced its collaboration with the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. H&M has sponsored the festival for the past six years and is now partnering to develop a branded collection. The partnership extends beyond the collection, with a portion of official merchandise sold will be provided by H&M.
The line will be called H&M loves Coachella Collection and will be available in approximately 350 stores in North America as well the retailer’s website, hm.com. Sales being in North America March 19th, and worldwide on March 26th.
The H&M loves Coachella collection will offer men’s and women’s clothing along with a variety of accessories. The collection will range from $4.95 to $49.95. The women’s collection focuses on a romantic trend with graphic tops, fringe, lace, rompers, crop tops, shorts, and wide legged pants for a feminine bohemian look. For men there will be graphic t-shirts and shorts.
For those attending, H&M will have their first ever pop-up shop on-site in the H&M tent where festival goers can buy the exclusive collection, take a break indoors and enjoy an interactive experience.
As a recent expat to the sunny land of Costa Rica and frequent world traveler, I am beginning to understand the dynamics behind dressing for the heat.
It’s hot here. I can’t even begin to describe how the humidity makes it feel so hot. It’s hot all the time, unless it’s raining, which makes it colder, yet, wet.
If you’re planning on moving to the land of perpetual summer or if you’re just planning for a one-week tropical vacation, here are some tips to keep you dry and cool while traveling in humid climates:
1. Don’t wear jeans.
Americans are obsessed with jeans. I was once like that. In my older years, I have come to view jeans as the worlds most uncomfortable comfort blanket. It’s time to get over it. They’re thick, they’re hard; They cut into my side and give me an awkward muffin top. I am not built for jeans.
Wearing jeans in the middle of summer at the beach or in a tropical area just screams, “American tourist.” You might as well be wearing a fanny pack. Don’t be that person.
Katie in Thailand
Above is a photo of my first trip to Thailand. It was sweltering and I was hiking in jeans, two cotton t-shirts, and a pair of Vans slip-on shoes. Don’t be me. Prepare yourself for the climate and bring the right shoes if you’re going to hike.
2. Do wear non-jean shorts and light, flowing pants.
Instead of wearing your sweaty jeans, invest in some linen pants. These linen pants from Roxy will keep you cool, they won’t break the bank, and you don’t have to up your sense of style. These pants have become my favorite piece to wear. Alternatively, brightly colored, flowing harem pants are universally stylish now, so pick yourself up a pair of those as well.
For the more luxury traveler, Level 99’s linen-blend shorts are amazing. The price is a bit steep but you won’t regret it.
3. Don’t wear cotton*.
This will be hard for Americans to accept, as we’re raised to think cotton the comfortable fabric around. The issue with cotton is its inability to completely air dry. Electric driers are spares or expensive in Costa Rica and other tropical regions. Cotton tends to stay damp and carry a moldy smell if left to air dry. Be smart and get some of these alternatives listed below.
*Linen-cotton blends don’t count. You need the cotton mixed in so you don’t look like a wrinkly mess.
4. Do wear dri-fit or linen
My boyfriend purchased a ton of dri-fit t-shirts from Hanes before we left and he practically lives in them. When I wore dri-fit clothing in America I always found myself stinky, but if you’re sweating all the time, the fabric actually helps wick away the moisture. I can’t smell him at all. For myself, I purchased some cheap linen t-shirts from Target before I left. Uniqlo, to my despair, released an entire line of well-made, cheap linen-blend clothing items immediately after I left for my trip. I missed out, but you don’t have to.
5. Don’t bring anything leather
Think you need your leather bags, shoes, or belts? Think again. Tropical regions are so wet here that your fancy leather bag or sassy leather sandals will mold.
6. Do buy some 100% rubber sandals.
I picked up these iPanema sandals, thanks to a tip from Travel Fashion Girl, and I am happy with the purchase. The sandals are cute and comfortable. Stepping through the mud is never an issue since they’re easy to rinse. I have worn these everywhere; from walking through the rainforest (I tend to never wear the right shoes while hiking), to playing inside of a rocky ocean. These sandals are amazing.
Above: The Rainforest Botanical Garden in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. iPanema sandals and light-weight, crazy harem pants. Practicing what I preach, y’all.
What are some of your tips for keeping cool & dry in the tropics? Is something I said completely bullshit? Post a comment to let me know or e-mail me directly at katie@katiestrails.com!
If you need more tips on what shoes to bring to the tropics, check out my article on Travel Shoes for Women at KatiesTrails.com today!
Online social-driven coupon site, Groupon, has announced the new face of its health, beauty and wellness category, Favin the Beauty Maven. Favin is now highlighting her expertise across her own blog on Groupon.com. Favin will be sharing her beauty tips and tricks and providing insight into a variety of trends and treatments, with an emphasis on maintaining health, beauty and wellness on a budget. She’ll also be experimenting with a variety of treatments and will share those on her YouTube channel and other social media platforms.
“I’m excited to share all of my experiences with customers and followers alike,” said Favin the Beauty Maven. “Whether it’s a new way to reduce wrinkles, volumize lashes or clear your skin, or an in-spa or at-home treatment to calm your nerves or revitalize your soul, my goal is to bring you the very latest every day.”
In addition to Favin’s debut, Groupon has established its own Health, Beauty and Wellness Merchant Advisory Board. Composed of health, beauty and wellness merchant partners and consultants from across the United States, Groupon’s Health, Beauty and Wellness Merchant Advisory Board provides insight into regional and seasonal trends as well as industry knowledge. The Board meets on a regular basis to share information and new developments in the space.
“Over our five year history, Groupon has delighted customers with more than 25 million health, beauty and wellness treatments, and now with our new redesigned website and mobile apps with integrated search, it’s easier than ever for our customers to find beauty treatments like pedicures, facials, blow-drys in an instant or discover high-end treatments like laser hair removal or ultrasonic-cavitation treatments.”
Saks Fifth Avenue has partnered with the hit ABC series “Scandal,” starring Emmy nominated actress Kerry Washington. The multi-platform collaboration takes place in-store, online and on-screen, celebrating the unique and iconic style aesthetic that has become a signature calling card of the political drama. Saks Fifth Avenue and Scandal will kick off the partnership with a star-studded event sponsored by Mercedes-Benz on October 2, celebrating the premiere of the hit show’s third season.
“Scandal,” produced by ABC Studios, kicks off its new season on Thursday, October 3, at 10pm ET/PT on ABC. Reflecting the fashion seen on the show, Saks Fifth Avenue’s New York flagship store will feature a window installation curated by Ms. Washington and Scandal’s Emmy award-winning costume designer, Lyn Paolo. The window installation will also feature Mercedes-Benz all-new 2014 CLA45 AMG, similar to the all-new 2014 CLA250 used in the show. The partnership between Saks Fifth Avenue and “Scandal” includes ongoing social media efforts as well as visual statements in various Saks Fifth Avenue locations throughout the country. In addition, several designer fashions and accessories from Saks Fifth Avenue will be showcased in upcoming episodes throughout the season.
Washington and Paolo have worked closely together to perfect the wardrobe of Washington’s character, Olivia Pope, a savvy, confident and well-dressed Washington D.C. crisis management mastermind. Olivia Pope’s unique style has quickly made her a trendsetter for the modern day professional woman, feverishly setting the social media world abuzz. Favorite designer brands in Pope’s closet include Giorgio Armani, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and Carolina Herrera. Several of these designer brands will further be used in Saks Fifth Avenue’s window installation and will be recreated for additional Saks locations in Beverly Hills, CA and Chevy Chase, MD.
“I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with the Saks team in bringing the ‘Scandal’ characters to life in their windows. Fashion is such an integral part of the show and for Kerry and I to have had the opportunity to play a part in the creation of the iconic Saks windows is a dream come true, and a truly wonderful creative experience on every level. SAKS and SCANDAL…BRILLIANT!” said Lyn Paolo.
Adam Sanderson, Senior Vice President, Franchise Management, Disney/ABC Television Group added, “Partnering with Saks Fifth Avenue is a great way to give fans a taste of Fall fashion inspired by the looks of ABC’s Scandal. The series has created a fashion obsession for fans who love the styling of the characters, especially Olivia Pope, who is Washington D.C.’s most fashionable fixer.”
Saks Fifth Avenue’s Chairman and CEO, Steve Sadove said, “We are delighted to be working with ABC and Scandal on this partnership. There is a great synergy between the fashion forward characters on the show and the style sensibility of our Saks Fifth Avenue customers.”
The kickoff celebration will take place at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City on October 2, the day before the season three premiere on ABC. Scandal star Kerry Washington (Olivia Pope), show creator and Executive Producer Shonda Rhimes, Executive Producer Betsy Beers, and Scandal costume designer Lyn Paolo will be in attendance. Additional “Scandal” cast attendees will be announced closer to the event date.
Kohl’s Department Stores announced the Catherine Malandrino for DesigNation collection is now available at Kohl’s stores nationwide and at Kohls.com. As part of the Kohl’s DesigNation concept featuring premier designer fashions based on international inspiration, the collection draws creative influence from Malandrino’s recent trip to her home city of Paris, France. Launched in fall 2012 with Narciso Rodriguez and following with Derek Lam for spring 2013, Malandrino is the third designer for Kohl’s DesigNation. The new limited edition, limited time collection is Malandrino’s first collaboration with Kohl’s.
The Malandrino collection captures the romance of Paris, drawing from the city’s architecture, landmarks and lights. A perfect blend of romance, elegance and femininity, Catherine Malandrino’s versatile designs allow women to express their personality from day to night. The contemporary collection of Parisian-inspired prints and chic silhouettes features misses’ apparel with retail prices ranging from $36 to $130.
“We are thrilled to partner with Catherine Malandrino for this exclusive DesigNation collection. Malandrino has brilliantly captured the charm and sentiment of Paris through her diverse collection of wearable, timeless designs,” said Don Brennan, Kohl’s chief merchandising officer. “We are confident that the Catherine Malandrino for DesigNation collection will resonate with consumers nationwide and will continue to position Kohl’s as a style destination at an affordable price point.”
Born in Grenoble, France, Malandrino started her career as a fashion designer in Paris and later moved to New York City where she became known for weaving together the energy of Manhattan and the romance of Paris. Her design aesthetic includes roughed up romantic looks in neutral palettes, fitted silhouettes, attention-getting patterns, and playful accents like cut-outs and embellishments. Catherine Malandrino has become a face that embodies femininity and strength and is embraced by women of style all around the world.
“I am excited to bring this DesigNation collection to life and inspire women with affordable and accessible fashion that embodies the passion and excitement of Paris,” said Malandrino. “Each piece of the collection tells a romantic story that will make women feel comfortable, feminine and special.”
This spring, Kohl’s fourth DesigNation collection will feature Peter Som, who will draw creative influence from his trip to St. Barths. The collection will feature misses’ apparel and will be available exclusively at Kohl’s and Kohls.com. Kohl’s will continue to introduce new brands and exclusive world-class partnerships that offer customers contemporary style at an incredible value.
The Limited is debuting a commemorative bracelet and a clutch hand bag in celebration of its 50th anniversary and in support of Dress For Success, a nonprofit organization that offers professional apparel, a network of support and career development tools to women who are entering or re-entering the workforce.
“We’re celebrating 50 years of giving women confidence to succeed,” said Nicolas Frechette, SVP of merchandising. “And we’re inviting others to join us. The sales of the bracelet and the clutch will help aspiring jobseekers attain their goal through the work of Dress for Success. The Limited is a very proud supporter of Dress for Success’ mission, and we believe clients will be excited to join us in this fundraiser.”
The retailer kicked off its months-long anniversary celebration in July by inviting its clients to share success stories, life lessons and great moments in their lives – whether personal or professional – with others who can learn from their wisdom. Submissions can be entered at thelimited.com/50th. The company will donate $1 to Dress for Success for every submission, up to $50,000. The Limited is also providing free make-overs to 50 Dress for Success clients across the country. Additionally, The Limited is donating to Dress for Success 30% of the proceeds from the clutch and bracelet.
“Helping women fully achieve self-sufficiency has become as much of a part of Dress for Success as the suits that we provide them with when they first walk through our door,” said Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide. “We are extremely excited to partner with The Limited, which not only believes in personal style as a form of self-expression, but also as a method of self-empowerment.”
As part of an ongoing digital and social media campaign, The Limited asked clients to select a dress design that will be featured in its stores. Votes were submitted at The Limited’s website , Facebook and Instagram. The winning dress will debut in stores in October. The company’s associates will cap off the celebration in October with commemorative events at stores nationwide.
Retailing for under $50, the clutch will be available in all stores and the bracelet will be in select stores while supplies last, starting September 25. Both are available online for a limited time.
