Early start to New York Fashion Week Fall 2017

Model poses in a sunset silk double face satin bias cut dress with asymmetric shoulder
 drape and spaghetti straps from the Roumel6 Fall 2017 collection by Denitza Skorcheva,
 during New York Fashion Week Women Fall 2017. Photo: Shawn Punch Photography

Model poses in a deep water silk velvet smoking wrap over black Chantilly lace blouse and
 velvet pant from the Roumel6 Fall 2017 collection by Denitza Skorcheva, during New York
 Fashion Week Women Fall 2017. Photo: Shawn Punch Photography

Wednesday was part of the unofficial start to New York Fashion Week: Women's Fall Winter 2017. The official start date for NYFW is the second Thursday in February and September. With hundreds of fashion show occurring within an eight day period, some designers choose to get a head start and show their collections early in the calendar. Three such brands that helped kick off the latest fashion week season are Roumel6, PH5 and Hayley Elsaesser.

Designer Denitza Skorcheva held a fashion presentation for her Roumel6 Fall 2017 collection in which three models posed on a set in Drift Studios; located in the art gallery rich section of Chelsea, New York City. Models wore one outfit per scene and there were two scenes. The pieces are soft, elegant and made from luxurious materials such as satin, silk velvet, Chantilly lace and beaded tulle. When talking about the inspiration behind the collection, Ms. Skorcheva stated "how they feel against your skin is so important to me, because that changes your mood also".

Model poses in an outfit from the PH5 Fall Winter 2017 collection by Wei Lin and
Mijia Zhang, during New York Fashion Week: Women's Fall 2017.
Photo: Shawn Punch Photography

Model poses in an outfit from the PH5 Fall Winter 2017 collection by Wei Lin and
Mijia Zhang, during New York Fashion Week: Women's Fall 2017.
Photo: Shawn Punch Photography

Designers Wei Lin and Mijia Zhang held their PH5 Fall Winter 2017 "Art Meets Science" collection presentation in Bortolami Gallery, which is also located in Chelsea. The duo found inspiration in artist Martin Creed's work No. 227. The set was made up of large white and transparent balloons. Fifteen models stood side by side on their own small, white boxes. The clothes are colorful, yet restrained; playful and at the same time sexy.

Canadian designer Hayley Elsaesser held a presentation of menswear and womenwears for her eponymous Fall Winter 2017 "My Little Pony" collection in Milk Studios, located in the Meatpacking District. The designer partnered with Hasbro to create high-fashion streetwear based on themes and characters from My Little Pony. The twenty-three looks focused heavily on bold, colorful prints on very sensible silhouettes.

Model Daria poses in a Rainbow Dash sequin dress from the Hayley Elsaesser Fall Winter
2017 collection, during New York Fashion Week: Women's Fall 2017.
Photo: Shawn Punch Photography

Kelly poses in a Rainbow Dash button up with Locket Love skirt, and Joon Ki poses in a celestial
 blue wool pant, lightning bold knit and pretty plaid jacket from the Hayley Elsaesser Fall Winter
 2017 collection, during New York Fashion Week: Women's Fall 2017.
Photo: Shawn Punch Photography 

petitePARADE at Children's Club Fashion Show

Model walks runway in an outfit by Fun & Fun, during the petitePARADE Children's
 Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Model walks runway in an outfit by Aisabobo during the petitePARADE Children's
 Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Children's fashion platforms petitePARADE and the Children's Club teamed up to present a children's wear runway show on Monday January 9th, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. The fashion show featured twenty-four brands that specialize in kids wear. Each participating brand presented between one to three outfits, with some accessorized with bags provided by State Bags. The clothes covering both girls and boys catered to ages ranging from toddler to tween.

One really cute outfit for small girls is a blue and white stripe dress with sleeves, and white see-through overskirt with small blue bows from the Doe A Dear collection. It's great for baby showers and/or recitals. Mod Girl offers great choices for a sporty, active, girl about to enter her teens. A standout look in particular is a colorful exercise pant worn with a black zipup hoodie and pink long sleeve tee.

Among the boys wear, Fun & Fun showcased a super stylish blue jackets with red strips on the cuffs and collar, with soft, tiny rivets across the surface of the jacket. A cool and dressy look from the TO Collection with a ensemble of brown trousers, white shirt, blue and orange tie, and blue blazer with orange boxes. All looks from the runway show can be viewed at petitePARADE at Children's Club.

Model walks runway in an outfit by Condor, during the petitePARADE Children's
 Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Model walks runway in an outfit by Doe A Dear, during the petitePARADE Children's
 Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Model walks runway in an outfit by TO Collection, during the petitePARADE Children's
 Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Model walks runway in an outfit by Pickles N Roses, during the petitePARADE Children's

 Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016

DJ Alden poses on runway during the petitePARADE Children's Club fashion
show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Model walks runway in an outfit by Mod Girl, during the petitePARADE Children's
Club fashion show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City, on January 9, 2016.

Rivini and Alyne by Rita Vinieris Bridal collections Fall 2017

Model walks runway in a "Cherish" bridal gown from the Rivini by Rita Vinieris Fall 2017
collection on October 7th, 2016 during New York Bridal Fashion Week.
(Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016)

Luxury womenswear designer Rita Vinieris presented her Rivini and Alyne Fall 2017 bridal collections during this past New York Bridal Fashion week in October. She presented both collection with a runway fashion show. There were thirty-four bridal gowns shown in all, with seventeen from the Rivini collection and another seventeen from Alyne. The combination of the lines offered classical, understated wedding dresses; as well as bolder, sexier options.

Two bridal dresses from the Rivini collection that really stand out are "Irresistible" and "Affinity". The Irresistible gown is very sexy. It is a diaphanous beaded ballgown with long sleeves and a layered skirt. This gown commands confidence, and the intricate beading is captivating. The Affinity gown is subdued and pretty. Its designs is of graphic rose lace sheath with flutter sleeves worn with a light tissue organza overskirt.

One dress from the Alyne that appears understated from a distance is "Adorable". However, the high quality of ribbon lace pattern design is very apparent up close. The shape is elegant and the detailing is stunning. Even though the "Cherish" ballgown is relatively simple with a plunging V neck, open back and crystal belt; when matched with the Rita Vinieris layered pleated tulle cape; it creates bold and dramatic look. More images can be view at Rivini and Alyne by Rita Vinieris Fall 2016.

Model walks runway in an "Irresistable" bridal gown with diaphanous beaded
ballgown, long sleeves and layered skirt, from the Rivini by Rita Vinieris Fall 2017
 collection, during New York Bridal Fashion Week. (Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016)

Model walks runway in an "Affinity" bridal gown with graphic rose lace sheath with
 flutter sleeves, worn with a light tissue organza overskirt, from the Rivini by Rita
 Vinieris Fall 2017 collection, during New York Bridal Fashion Week.
(Photo: © Shawn Punch 2016)

Model walks runway in an "Adorable" bridal gown of ribbon lace with off the shoulder
detail embellished with embroidered shimmer appliqués, from the Alyne by Rita
Vinieris Fall 2017, during New York Bridal Fashion Week.
(Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016)

Model walks runway in a "Desire" bridal gown of transparent corseted re-embroidered
lace with intricate scalloped hem, shown with a Rita Vinieris Feather Collared Veil Cape,
from the Alyne by Rita Vinieris Fall 2017 collection, during New York Bridal Fashion
 Week. (Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016)

Model walks runway in "Kiss" a rose beaded ballgown with deep v-neck and short
cold shoulder sleeve bridal gown from the Rivini by Rita Vinieris Fall 2017
collection on October 7th, 2016 during New York Bridal Fashion Week.
(Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016)

Model walks runway in an "XOXO" bridal gown with beaded bodice and high
 slit layered tissue organza ball skirt, from the Rivini by Rita Vinieris Fall 2017
collection, during New York Bridal Fashion Week. (Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016)

Fashion Palette Australian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017

Models walk runway in swimsuits from the Lil & Emm Spring Summer 2017
"Summer Romance" collection for the Fashion Palette Australian Swim
Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

The Australian fashion production company Fashion Palette, held their Fashion Palette New York Fashion Week Spring Summer 2017 runway shows, this past September, during New York Fashion Week Spring 2017. Talented fashion designers from Australia, as well as expert makeup artists led by Alison Jade, and hair care specialists from Davroe flew to New York City to showcase their latest fashion pieces and beauty styling. The fashion show was divided into two series of runway shows. There was a collection of Australian swim/resort runway shows in the early afternoon; and women's evening and ready-to-wear at night. This article focuses on the nine swim/resort Spring Summer 2017 collections from the early afternoon.

In the resort category, the Sabo Luxe collection by Thessy Kouzoukas and Yiota Karalouka was soft and sensual. Deep v-necks, exposed shoulders and hem lines way above the knees were the looks presented. The BOSSA collection had earth tones approaching copper and blue. Long skirts, dresses and sleeves moved with fluidity. Sara Bailes presented a more foot-on-the-ground approach with her attractive collection that would look pretty on various body types. Alphabe The Label by Brenda Chang and Cathy Karuga, featured pleats, lace and intricate detailing. Natalia Rolt's collection of all-white fabrics is unconventional and sexy. Every outfit is sure to turn heads on any yacht or cruise ship.

The swim outfits were definitely show stoppers. The Ark Swimwear bikinis have a harmonious cut to them that follows the shape of the body, rather than trying to shape it. Frankie Swimwear by Rebecca Klodinsky showcased pretty head-wraps, paired with smoking hot bikinis. Floral patterns and knitting made up the Ete Swimwear collection by Jessica Williamson. Some pieces almost blur the line between swimwear and lingerie. Electric pinks, blues and purples, pop in the Lil and Emm swimwear collection. Please click on link to view every look from the Fashion Palette Australian Swim/Resort Spring Summer 2017 runway fashion show.

Model walks runway in an outfit from the Sabo Luxe Spring Summer 2017
collection by Thessy Kouzoukas and Yiota Karalouka for the Fashion
Palette Austrialian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show.

Models walk runway in outfits from the Ark Swimwear Spring Summer 2017
collection for the Fashion Palette Australian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017
fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Models walk runway in outfits from the BOSSA Spring Summer 2017
collection for the Fashion Palette Austrialian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017
 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Models walk runway in outfits from the BOSSA Spring Summer 2017
collection for the Fashion Palette Austrialian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017
 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Models walk runway in swimsuits from the Frankie Swimwear Spring Summer
2017 collection by Rebecca Klodinsky for the Fashion Palette Australian
Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Models walk runway in swimsuits from the Sara Bailes Spring Summer 2017
 collection for the Fashion Palette Austrialian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017
 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Models walk runway in swimsuits from the Ete Swimwear Spring Summer 2017
 collection by Jessica Williamson for the Fashion Palette Australian
 Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Models walk runway in swimsuits from the Lil & Emm Spring Summer 2017
 "Summer Romance" collection for the Fashion Palette Australian
 Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Model walks runway in resortwear from the Natalie Rolt Designs Spring Summer
2017 collection by Natalie Rolt, for the Fashion Palette Australian Swim
Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

Model walks runway in resortwear from Alphabe The Label Spring Summer 2017
 collection by Brenda Chang and Cathy Karuga, for the Fashion Palette
Austrialian Swim Resort Spring Summer 2017 fashion show on September 8, 2016.

The Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection

Model poses in an outfit from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

The Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 fashion show presentation by Austyn Zung, was held on October 26, 2016 in Ann Taylor New York City showroom in Times Square.  Models stood or sat on chairs onto of white platforms that were a few inches tall. The collection of thirty-one looks were feminine, colorful, soft, elegant and pretty. The designer found inspiration from her recent trips to Spain and Tanzania. 

According to Ms. Zung, "In Spain we were very influenced by the Matadors and the Flamenco dancers; so you'll see a lot of ruffles and attention to fringe detailing...and you'll see the accessories have a very Spanish feeling to them." She continued, "When we moved on to African, we really gathered in all the different patterns and prints. I was really inspired by all the textual cloths and vibrate colors". Furthermore, "We're still really loving the wide-leg pants and flowing skirts, and a lot of shoulder showing."

The diverse casting of models reflect a keen eye, and an appreciation of cultures by the designer. A one-shoulder top with flower-print skirt, would be an extremely alluring look for a dinner date. African inspired prints are blended smoothly into today's fashion. There are also elegant black and white top separates that fit perfectly in any business setting. Each garment stands well on its own. Click on link to view the complete Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection.

Model poses in an outfit from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

Model poses in an outfit from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

One-shoulder ruffle top from the Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

Skin is in for the Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Hung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

One-shoulder top and flower skirt from the Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017
 collection by Austyn Zung, on New York on October 26, 2016.

African print dress from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

African print outfit from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

Model poses in an outfit from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017 collection by
Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

Model poses in a flower and animal print dress, and loafers with tassels from Ann Taylor Spring Summer 2017
 collection by Austyn Zung, at the Ann Taylor showroom on, New York on October 26, 2016.

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017 menswear collection

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016

The Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017 men's collection was presented in July with a runway show during New York Fashion Week: Men's Spring Summer 2017. The designer, Mr. Abboud channeled adventurer, expatriate and legendary writer Ernest Hemingway in the styles of the clothes and even with the setting of the fashion show. The event was held at The Park, a sunlit restaurant on Tenth Avenue between West 17th and 18th Street. The atmosphere had a relaxed, privileged and friendly air. Guests sat at circular tables while they were served Cuban Frittatas, Smoked Salmon Crepe, deserts and pastries as though they were passing the time in a French cafe. 

The collection is titled "Deconstructed Elegance" and imagines an "American voyager...hungry for knowledge and adventure who collects" his richly made garments "as he explores the world, from New York and Paris, to Havana and Madrid." The models walked down a couple small steps and made their way along a path that snaked in between tables, where guests such as actor and model Kellan Lutz got a close up view of the clothes. Models turned a sharp right, then strutted down a short, narrow, runway decorated with Oriental rugs and lined with worn but expensive travel luggage. Finally, each model sat at an assigned seat at the head of the runway until the man behind the brand walked out to thank the audience and pose briefly with the models. 

As usual, Mr. Abboud's clothes look great. The pieces are made for the masculine man. One who likes a bit of room in his pants and jackets; but not too much room. Several pieces are made from linen. According to the designer, "ninety-five percent of the collection is 100% linen. I've always loved linen. I think it's a great fabric. A lot of men don't understand linen. The more you wear it, the more you use it, the more comfortable it feels." The colors of the clothes are white, ivory, sand, chocolate, flax and tobacco. Looks deftly straddle the line between formal and informal wear. 

Some of the looks can be worn as a suit, while most of the pieces are worn as separates. Double-breasted suit jackets and blazers with large breast pockets are very dashing. Coats with belts are tailor-made for a safari trek. There are lots of visual options with stripes, checkers, solids, paisley and flower designs. One has to remember not to mix patterns too much, keeping in mind the saying, less is more. Overall this is a fabulous collection.

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016

Joseph Abboud Spring Summer 2017. Photo: ©Shawn Punch 2016