taffetadarlings

What's Black and White and Red All Over?

2012-02-13T05:05:00.001-05:00

The answer to this old riddle is, of course, the newspaper! However, in this case, I'm referring to the colors in my Fall 2012 "Modern World" collection. I also added some Royal --after all, what "Mod" collection could be complete without it? Three days until showtime, stay tuned for photos!

a glimpse of the fabrics I'm using for fall

Goal and Win!

2012-01-30T00:16:00.000-05:00

It's been a good week Taffetadarlings! I reached my fundraising goal on Kickstarter and I couldn't have done it without your help. Every season, I've had such an overwhelming amount of support and encouragement and this time was no different. Also, with each collection, I've had a few "angels" come out of nowhere to surprise me with their extreme generosity. I feel incredibly lucky that such wonderful people have so much faith in me and my work. Thanks to everyone who contributed this season (and past seasons), I'm so excited for Fall 2012, "Modern World!"

The other piece of good news I received recently was being named as a finalist for the Fashion Group International's 2012 Rising Star Awards in women's ready-to-wear. The awards luncheon, to announce the winners, was held on Thursday, January 26 and I got up bright and early to head over to my girl, and fellow finalist in the fine jewelry category, Wendy Brandes' place. I brought her a freshly finished dress I made for her to wear for the happy occasion.

Wendy in her red peplum dress

While I didn't snag the prize this year, I was so happy to be a finalist and I've set my sights on next year! The good news is that WendyB DID snag the award for fine jewelry! Yay! So, she and my dress (well, it's technically hers) stepped up to the stage looking radiant. I was so happy for her that the elation just spewed out of me and I inadvertently let out a "Whooo, yah Wendy!"

(right to left) Wendy, holding her award; friend, client and Kickstarter contributor, Christine; me wearing an orchid -- all of the finalists were given corsages!

I was at a table with my friend James, and his group from Hearst and thankfully, they didn't view my little outburst as obnoxious, but genuine. They had all commented on our "tag team" dynamic when I passed the elaborate Empress Wu dragon ring that caught everyone's eye around the table for them to admire (Wendy let me borrow it for the day!). "You guys are adorable," they gushed. "You wear her jewelry and she wears your clothes!" And Wendy made sure that the entire crowd at Cipriani knew that she was wearing my dress when she thanked me in her perfect speech. Talk about sharing the spotlight! Now, that's generosity in its purest.

proudly displaying Wendy's Empress Wu dragon ring!

Faux Ostrich Anyone?

2012-01-19T12:03:00.000-05:00

I'm still pushing forward with my Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for my fall 2012 collection and I've recently added another sponsor tier to the project. A contribution of $1000 will not only get you a custom faux ostrich vest, but it will help an up-and-coming designer (ME!) to show this season at New York Fashion Week. Not into ostrich? No problem! I have a variety "prize" categories for different sponsorship levels. Maybe you'd rather have a pair of retro sunglasses with my logo or a mug, keychain, tote bag or a collection T-shirt? Check out my project on Kickstarter and if you're feeling generous, please make a donation -- you'll instantly become a fashionista... one of the cool kids (in my book!!).

long faux ostrich vest from my fall 2012 collection (shorter option available!)

2012 Golden Globes

2012-01-16T06:19:00.006-05:00

The 2012 Golden Globes did not wow me. Maybe I'm jaded. Probably. So, I'm going to keep this short and sweet -- no need to go into a lot of detail, it's pretty simple. Here's my opinion of the evening's dresses...

Yay Nay Nay

Yay Nay

Yay *Nay

(*even though I adore Francisco Costa)

Yay Nay

Yay ...ooops, I meant Nay

Yay Nay

Yay ....uh, strike that! Nevermind.

Yay Nay

Definitely NAY... in a category all by itself!

Knit Baby, Knit!

2012-01-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

Let me begin this post by saying that I am not a knitter. I'm a designer, a seamstress, a tailor, a draper and even a pattern maker, but knitting is out of my comfort zone. I like to work with fabric -- it's dimensional, tangible. Knitting is kind of like creating fabric. Actually, it's a lot like that, considering that yarn/fibers are woven together to produce material. So, I'm not sure exactly what or who inspired me (maybe the amazing Kristin from K-Line), but I was determined to make a scarf to include in my Fall 2012 presentation. I'm sharing a glimpse of the partially finished piece, but you'll have to stay tuned to see the final product!

hand knit scarf in black/white baby alpaca

WWD Announces FGI's Rising Star Finalists!

2012-01-04T02:07:00.001-05:00

Guess what, taffetadarlings? I am happy to report that I am a finalist in the women's ready-to-wear category for the Fashion Group International's, 2012 Rising Star Awards! I am so excited! I know that many of you have all followed my progress over the last eighteen months and it seems like just yesterday that I launched my debut collection for Spring 2011. Time flies when you're ~~crazy busy~~ having fun!

clipping from WWD

The winners (in seven different categories) will be announced on January 26th and I'm keeping my fingers crossed not only for myself, but for my girl, WendyB, who is a finalist (second year in a row!!!) in the fine jewelry category. Read Wendy's post here.

Wendy Brandes holding Henry in a tweed and leather STACY LOMMAN dress

This wonderful news couldn't come at a better time since I am working on a new collection for Fall 2012. Talk about motivation!! And I've just started a new campaign on Kickstarter, so if you want to help an up-and-coming designer, please click the link and see what I'm up to this season.

Bring It On, 2012!!

2012-01-01T17:13:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I'm excited to report that today marks the second year anniversary of Taffetadarlings! How time flies. I was ~~nearly forced at gunpoint~~ encouraged to start a blog by the fabulously talented journalist-turned-jewelry designer, Wendy Brandes, who convinced me that it would be a good way to interact with and educate people about the world of fashion. I mean, the REAL world of fashion and what it's like to be a designer trying to make it in the cut-throat industry.

bronze color cashmere strapless dress from my Fall 2011 "French Resistance" collection

Photo: Shane LaVancher

So, I decided to do it, but I didn't want to be just another fashion blogger talking about how much they love Marc Jacobs and Proenza Schouler or posting outfit pictures every day. Of course, outfit posts are great once in a while, but I wanted to take people on a journey (God, I hate that word, it's so overused) and allow them to "tag along" as I worked on my collections, raised funds and showed at NY Fashion Week.

"vapor blue" sheath dress from my Spring 2012 "Biohazard" collection

Photo: Shane LaVancher

I hope you've all enjoyed it so far because there's more to come. And I promise I'll keep mixing things up by continuing to write about music, art and anything interesting to me at any given moment!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T14:01:00.000-05:00

I'm wishing all my taffetadarlings a healthy, prosperous and fashionable New Year! Happy 2012!

Wright Was Never Wrong

2011-12-23T19:42:00.000-05:00

As a designer and artist, I was (obviously) inspired by many different creative people who helped in some small and meaningful way to shape and mold my aesthetic. One of those people is architect, Frank Llloyd Wright -- I've even mention him in my bio on my website. Well, my dad happens to appreciate the genius of Mr. Wright as well and we have discussed his work at Fallingwater at length.

Annie Pfeiffer Chapel

staircase in chapel with colored glass

So, I thought that since I was in town visiting my folks (a.k.a. "parental units" as my sister and I have dubbed them), it would be a great idea to visit Florida Southern College. Why? Because I'm religious? No, not even close. Because Frank Llloyd Wright designed the entire campus. How cool is that? My dad joked as we strolled past the ginormous grandfather oak tree, "This reminds me of F.I.T. Stac."

one of the many many sprawling oak trees

me, under a giant cross feeling the ~~guilt~~ weight on my shoulders

The college is situated on Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland, Florida, it's been called the most beautiful campus in the country. According to the enthusiastic and knowledgeable man at the visitors center, the first buildings designed by Wright, were actually built by WOMEN. Yes, that's right, chicks! In the mid 1940's when they were constructed, men were not exactly available, therefore, women had to do the hard labor. They didn't just paint or decorate, they poured concrete and devised elaborate pulley systems to transport heavy building materials to upper levels. Pretty amazing.

If you ever find yourself in the area, I highly recommend stopping by to see the angular, pointed, low-ceiling buildings that are detailed in Wright's favorite color, Cherokee Red. The serene setting adds to the charm, as does unexpected little findings like the Hindu Meditation Garden -- kind of surprising (but refreshing) for a Methodist establishment.

Hindu Meditation Garden, or as I like to call it, "Mini Taj"

my dad, trying his best to look priestly or saintly

I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas

2011-12-18T21:04:00.000-05:00

I love white. And I say that white after Labor Day is fine as long as it's style and fabric appropriate. In other words, summer linen should be shelved for, well... summer. Try cashmere or wool, angora, mohair or leather instead!

This is my white Christmas wish list and I have been a very good girl this year, so I'm hoping Santa will bring me all of these yummy items...

Movado watch

Ann Demeulemeester white leather pants Spring 2011 on sale now at Neiman Marcus for $1118 (from $3195)!!

photo credit Yanis Vlamos/GoRunway.com via Style.com

Max Mara Fall 2011 Alpaca coat with fur collar

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leather Barcelona chair

I'm On The Airwaves Baby!

2011-12-14T12:13:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official, I did my first radio interview! However, since it was for an Internet station, I'm not sure if I can technically say that I'm on the airwaves, but if I said "webwaves" I wouldn't have been able to use the Ramones in this post and that would be a tragedy.

The Ramones want the airwaves and so do I! I'll take the webwaves too.

If you'd like to hear a little bit about me and my thoughts on the industry, business and nail polish color, check out S.E. Burns' interview with me on Tenacity Radio. Burns is the host of a new segment called, Got Style and I'm lucky enough to be her first guest. How fabulous! I like being first... always have!

Pantone and Stacy Lomman : New York, Choose Orange

2011-12-09T09:40:00.005-05:00

screen shot from Pantone's website

And the winner is... drum roll please... Tangerine Tango!!! Pantone just announced its color of the year and it's bright and cheery, just in time for the holidays. Now, some people are afraid of such bold hues and feel that they don't look good in orange, but if you select the right pieces and style them the right way (I agree... easier said than done), you can "make it work."

"Safety Orange" Nylon Rip Stop Gown -- from STACY LOMMAN : NEW YORK Spring 2012 Biohazard Collection

Photo: Shane LaVancher

I tend to wear mainly neutrals myself, however, I've been feeling orange for quite a while. In fact, I did not one, but two posts on the happy color back in June. I guess I just couldn't get enough because a little later, I included an orange gown in my Spring 2012, Biohazard Collection. I called my color of choice, Safety Orange, which evokes an entirely different emotion than its relative, Tangerine Tango, but it's still just as lively.

"Safety Orange" Nylon Rip Stop Gown -- from STACY LOMMAN : NEW YORK Spring 2012 Biohazard Collection

Photo: Shane LaVancher

So, taffetadarlings, be bold, be fearless, go forth and conquer. Wear some orange... you might just like it!

On The Rise With FGI!

2011-12-04T20:30:00.001-05:00

I have great news taffetadarlings -- I've been nominated for The Fashion Group International's 2012 Rising Star Awards! The Fashion Group (a.k.a. FGI) is an International non-profit organization made up of industry professionals in apparel, interior, accessories, advertising, marketing, publishing, PR and beauty. Let's just say they cover anything fashion related.

Lightweight Neoprene Zip Front Jacket & Asymmetric Skirt (Spring 2012)

Photo: Shane LaVancher

I am honored to be up for the award in the women's RTW category and I feel flattered, excited and nervous all at the same time. While I know that I'm up against some steep competition, I'm remaining optimistic -- I hope that when my peers head over to FGI headquarters to cast their votes, they will be impressed with the pieces I've selected to showcase. I'm quite happy with them!

Slate Grey Cropped Jacket & Pencil Skirt in Cashmere (Fall 2011)

Photo: Shane LaVancher

Whatever the outcome, I want to thank all of my supporters, sponsors and friends who have helped me and followed me from the beginning when I launched "Precious Metal" for Spring 2011. Most of you know that one of my greatest advocates is Wendy Brandes (who is also a dear friend). In fact, quite a few of you who found me on this little blog were referred by WendyB. So, what makes this awards competition that much sweeter for me is the fact that Wendy is a nominee in the fine jewelry category. How great is that? She was a finalist last year (missed it by a hair) and I have a really good feeling this time -- have you seen her new Empress Wu dragon earrings? Need I say more?

Grey Wool Motorcycle Jacket With Silver Foil Print (Fall 2011)

Wool/Mohair Mini Skirt (Fall 2011)

Photo: Randy Brooke

Judging will take place between December 6th - December 13th and after the votes are counted, candidates will be informed as to whether or not they are a finalist in their category. Of course, I truly hope to make it to the last round so please keep your fingers crossed for me.

Dress For The Holidays!

2011-11-30T21:45:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again Taffetadarlings! Let the festivities begin! If you're looking for some fabulous, sexy, chic dresses, look no further. Contact me through the blog or my website to place a custom order today -- there's still time!!

Eat, drink and be sexy!

Photo Credit: Shane LaVancher

Dress S.O.S.

2011-11-22T00:40:00.001-05:00

Sometimes, Hervé Léger is just not appropriate. As a rule, I try never to criticize ~~actresses/musicians/performers~~ potential clients, but as a designer, I think it's okay to offer a little wardrobe advice. That said.... Ms. Christina Aguilera, if you're out there, I can help you...

Christina struts her stuff at the AMA's

Hello Dali

2011-11-14T11:52:00.002-05:00

Dali with rhinoceros, 1952 (Photo by Phillippe Halsman)

I adore this photo -- fabulous shape, composition and subjects!

I think I remember when Salvador Dali died, but I was a teenager so I can't say it made much of an impact. Sad, considering I was painting in school at that time and I was highly influenced by the great Spanish surrealist. Born in 1904, Dali had an extensive career spanning over six decades. The body of work produced by this colorful, unique man is enormous. Monumental.

I snapped this photo outside of the museum

This weekend, I had the great opportunity to visit the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, FL. I highly recommend a visit, you won't regret it. I'm not so sure Salvador would approve of the commercialized merchandise in the gift shop such as; the butterfly headband, the ant hat and bib or the Dali doll that looks more like Vincent Price, but I hope he would gain some satisfaction in knowing that so many of his pieces are gathered in a beautiful space for the world to see and enjoy.

Dinner in the Desert Lighted By Giraffes on Fire, 1937

Three Young Surrealist Women Holding in Their Arms the Skins of an Orchestra (1936)

The museum, which opened in 1982 (several years before Dali's death in 1989), contains over 1500 pieces (donated by ardent collectors, A. Reynolds and Eleanor R. Morse) from Dali's oeuvre. The collection ranges from his slightly cubistic early works in thick layered oils on canvas and linen; to his fine line, hyper-detailed pencil sketches and etchings; to his scupltures and photographs. Most people know Dali for his whimsical, upturned moustache; his famous melting clocks; segmented, distorted body parts and his Masterworks (paintings which are at least 5ft. tall or wide and have taken at least a year to complete); but not many are aware that he even created jewelry.

Woman With Head of Roses (1935)

Drawers of Memory (1965)

A true genius, Dali lived in an avant garde world where he was thought by many to be insane. Still, he is considered to be one of the greatest surrealists of all time, inspiring many artists such as; Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons and even the late, Andy Warhol.

Portrait of my Dead Brother (1963)

Dali's brilliant pieces are often matched with equally brilliant, bizarre and humours titles of which I've listed (in chronological order) my top five favorites below...

1. Ordinary French Loaf with Two Fried Eggs Riding Without a Plate (1932)
2. Atmospheric Skull Sodomizing a Grand Piano (1934)
3. Skull with its Lyric Appendage Leaning on a Bedside Table which should have the Exact Temperature of a Cardinal's Nest (1934)
4. Fountain of Milk Spreading Itself Uselessly on Three Shoes (1945)
5. Logical Rapproachment of a Trouser Button and a Pair of Cherries (1958)

Stacy's Style List

2011-11-07T00:15:00.000-05:00

What I'm loving now...

Joseph, Fall 2011

I've been a long time fan of the London based label, Joseph and its cozy cashmeres and its fine gauge knits. Pure chic! Joseph doesn't try for trendy, they're only concerned with smart design and innovative techniques for their luxury knitwear.

All photos: Courtesy of Joseph for Style.com

Night of Stars!

2011-10-30T14:52:00.000-04:00

I'm a lucky girl! I was fortunate enough to be invited (by the publisher of Lookonline, Ernest Schmatolla) to cover FGI's 28th Annual Night of Stars on October 27. You can read the full article on Lookonline's website HERE.

with David Byrne

Though it was thrilling to be surrounded by so many fashion greats under one roof, I must admit that for me, the highlight of the evening was meeting Talking Heads' David Byrne. I'm a long time fan. He was extremely gracious and I was, well, hopefully not a giddy mess!

in my safety orange rip-stop dress and wendy brandes earrings

Luckily, I was able to squeeze into one of the new Biohazard pieces from my spring 2012 collection and I was thrilled to accessorize the orange gown with some stunning Wendy Brandes earrings. Like I said, I'm a lucky girl!

The Emperor's FAB Clothes!

2011-10-26T11:16:00.001-04:00

Just a typical day in NYC -- hustle, bustle, traffic jams, train delays, smelly subway platforms, crowded subway cars... Sometimes a city girl has to stop, take the good with the bad, soak it all in and appreciate how lucky she is to live in such a marvelous, colorful town. So, that's exactly what I did the other day when I found myself on the #6 train sitting next to none other than the Emperor of New York City! That's right, I said the Emperor! Yah, I didn't know there was such a thing either.

one of the cards the Emperor gave me (he is on the left)

For those of you who aren't familiar with the Upper East Side, suffice it to say it's not exactly edgy. Think UGG boots, little dogs, manis, pedis, nannies, baby carriages and lots of girls named Alexis. Even in NYC, unique people attract a lot of attention. And so, when a tall stately man wearing a fur stole, an awesome top hat with two extra large, curved plumes and rocks for rings on each and every finger (with nails painted black) was spotted on the train, people stared. Alexis' jaw dropped. A boy in a Pittsburgh Steelers tee shirt, (obviously a tourist), took a photo with his phone. I didn't bat an eye. I'm jaded. But, then I noticed the rings. Then, I noticed the earrings. I thought about passing him WendyB's card! Then, I noticed the pretty fan he carried with what seemed to be seven feet of tassel dangling off the bottom. He had to keep picking it up off the floor and draping it over his lap, delicately sitting it on top of the fur stole.

another postcard

Okay, I was intrigued. Okay, I was more than intrigued. "Who is this fabulous man?" I thought. It takes a special kind of person to walk around in such an outfit. It takes a confident, social and creative person. Well, that's my kind of person! So, I waited till we hit Union Square and it just so happened we both exited the train at that stop. I just HAD to find out who this dude was... what he did... what his story was. So, I asked what he did for a living. "What don't I do?" he said. "I'm the Emperor of New York." To which I responded with a chuckle. I quickly realized he was dead serious. "Oh, I didn't even know there was an Emperor," I said. Luckily, that didn't offend his Royal Highness (is that appropriate in this case??) and he told me about all the fundraisers and parties he attends as an official representative of NYC. Cool. I want that gig! And so we exchanged cards and I scooted along because I was running ten minutes late as per usual and I left him to be accosted by a group of Hasdic Jews for a photo opp (which I found kind of odd)! Such a New York moment!!

thinking maybe I should go to this!

Paco Versus Stacy

2011-10-11T22:48:00.000-04:00

I've never hidden my admiration for great designers who've inspired me whether they be new on the scene or from generations past. Paco Rabanne has been a big influence for me ever since I can remember and most of you know that I looked to his metal creations from the sixties when I started working on my debut collection last year, "Precious Metal" (for Spring 2011). Even though the great Rabanne is alive and kicking, he hasn't been at the helm for a while and the collection has struggled in recent years (including an unsuccessful attempt by Patrick Robinson). Still, the label has continued to be an important part of the fashion world and I am always excited to see what the they send down the runway each season. This year, it looks like Rabanne's new designer, Manish Arora, tapped into Stacy Lomman : New York for some inspiration (IF ONLY!) as some of the similarities are uncanny. At least I can say I did it first!

molten metal with shoulder detail