Project Runway Canada!

Resort Mentor

Well, now that the "cat's out of the bag", as it were, I can talk about one of my favorite shows on TV (or YouTube) Project Runway Canada! I was asked to participate in the first ever season of our Northern neighbors' version of our most beloved show and of course, I said "Yes!". I was either to be a judge or a "guest mentor", but did not know which one (I don't think the producers did either until very close to shooting). I finally got the call and they told me that I would not be flying to Toronto to shoot there but that they would be coming to LA instead. You know I already had my outfits packed and ready to go whenever the call from Canada would come in.

The Challenge was to be the Resort Challenge and instead of Paris where Season 3 of the American version of the show traveled to, these Canadian designers would be coming to Huntington Beach and then working at my alma mater, the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM). Since I am an instructor there, it made perfect sense.

The night before we filmed the scene at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa, I was driven secretly late at night to the hotel where I was to stay overnight. The designers were having a nice dinner and enjoying the "resort" surroundings that evening but in the event that they were wandering around the hotel, they wanted to keep me hidden and "locked in my room", for fear that they would see me.
The next morning, I shot the scene in which I introduced myself to the group. It was funny to see their reactions because it became very obvious who knew me and who had no idea. Stephen was the first to be all "No they didn't!". He recognized me right away while the rest, for the most part, either were too stressed to show emotion, or actually thought I was the Hotel's Venezuelan-Greek Concierge telling them they had to leave! As the day proceeded, the rest of the designers began "opening up" more and more to me, yet I still felt that a couple had this "You are NOT Brian Bailey, and don't even think of replacing him!" look on their faces.

We then traveled to Mood Fabrics where they had to shop for fabrics. Afterward, we went to FIDM, where their workrooms would be. This was to be their "home" for the next two days. They loved the FIDM workspace. They especially liked the Industrial machines we had. The workroom is the same one used in my Advanced Fashion Design class so I felt right at home there. The show follows the same "script" of its American counterpart and so does its mentor. I was asked to come and survey what they were doing and just give my "two cents". I tried to vibe my best "Instructor Nick", being helpful with my advice, giving my constructive criticism in a way that would not be hurtful. Since I already felt a bit of distancing from the designers because I was not the mentor they had been used to for all this time, I treaded carefully but added some fun to lighten the atmosphere which was palpably stressful.

I was excited to see their varying ideas come to life and after the second day, very surprised to see how much they had done and so quickly: They were obviously a very talented group. I thought Bidell's outfit for himself was a bit CRAZY. In fact, I dubbed it "Jedi Resort". The dress for his model surprised me in its prettiness, especially in that green "Tye Dye" fabric. But I somehow had this weird feeling that the judges back in Canada would think it was F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S and would give him props for being original and creative. I loved Stephen's and thought he hit the mark when it came to resort. I just feared they might think he looked a bit too "gay postman" with his own outfit. Marie Genevieve's was tres chic. And Shernett's seemed complicated in terms of its construction (especially for resort wear) but I appreciated her skills in tailoring. I especially loved the complicated fitted jacket she made. Lucien's was my least favorite. I was worried for him. His own outfit was a bit "Eurotrash" to my liking (and I love me some Eurotrash!) and his model's dress was Cavalli five years ago. But I loved his draping! Somehow I knew he would be in the bottom when judging came about. In the end, it was Shernett's time to go. Of course, I, along with all of you guys, had to wait to see who made it "In" and who "Just didn't cut it". I had no idea of the final conclusion to this Challenge.

In the end, I had an amazing three days working with these talented group of designers and being part of the show. I know you may not believe me when I say this, but I didn't do this to have "more camera time". I was just honored to have been asked and happy to do what I normally do twice a week at FIDM--teach and mentor my students. I am hooked on this show and can't wait for the Finale episode which has already been filmed at Toronto Fashion Week. I am dying to see who wins the first ever Project Runway Canada! Click HERE to watch the entire episode.

Chris: I will miss you! Recap Episode 4

Children, Children , Children: How often do I have to say : NO MORE SHOULDER PADS!!!!!!! That's all I could think of when watching my sweet Bear of a love muffin, designer Chris March work his Joan Crawford meets Lipsynka magic on the Project Runway
catwalk.

My fellow Nick's Blog readers, yours truly was at the LA premiere of the Spice Girls concert Wednesday night (it was incredible by the way, and I will most surely have photos, and maybe a video for you) when the episode aired so I had to wait until almost midnite to watch it. I also missed the lovely debut of my Saturn commercial, but received enough text messages from close friends telling me that I had 'done good'!

Let's "Make It Work"
1) Do We Like Team Challenges?
Maybe it is because I suddenly begin shaking incessantly with memories of my team challenge with Santino and Emmett and our much-talked-about German-Frau-Mistress-On-Crack collection. While, it was fun trying to bring Santino's visions to life, it was difficult for me and Emmett to put in our two cents in regards to keeping the "put-everything-and-the-kitchen-sink" Santino at bay. In essence, I feel the frustrations some of the designers feel during these dreaded "Team Challanges". My stomach just turns. They always begin these Challenges with the "Since in the real world, you will probably have to work with a team so therefore...". Well, darlings, I just don't think that these Team Challenges really reflect a real-life Industry environment. In a design company, especially large, corporate ones, such as Banana Republic, Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY or Gucci,one is working with fellow "assistant designers" and have a leader, yes. But this leader is more of a "Creative Director" or "Chief Designer". These leaders do not necessarily "design". They give direction, they lead by giving the designers themes, story boards, ideas, actual garments to be inspired from. Then , the designers go to work designing. Everyone then consequently meets up to come together in terms of ideas and pieces that will become the group or collection. In a real Team Challenge, the leader would probably NOT have to make a garment but direct things and see if his/her designers got it right.

2) With that Being Said, then Why Would Anyone Ever Volunteer To Be the Team Leader?
I certainly wouldn't. Since the first thing I think of is the show Apprentice. In that show, the Team Leader almost always is not just on the hot seat, but ends up being fired. It was pretty evident that in this episode of Project Runway, the Team Leaders suffered, especially in the case of Chris March. And don't think "Miss Opinionated Victorya" wasn't playing the game when she said she didn't want to be Team Leader. Poor Ricky just volunteered because Victorya and Elisa instantly voiced their unwillingness to step up to the plate. It's a difficult position to be in, but I guess I would have just said, well "I don't either" so let's do "rock, paper, scissors"!

In terms of what he created, I kind of liked it. He may not have chosen the best of fabrics. I realize that duchesse satin is difficult to work with. It puckers and it wrinkles easily. And yes, his construction was weak, but I understood his dress, it was "Day-Glo" Proenza-Schouler. OK, kind of. Any thoughts? I am sure that I might be slightly alone on this one...

3)Why Do These Designers Get To Have "Pre-Fittings" With Their Models?
Not fair. I am sure that many of us Project Runway alumni would have loved this opportunity at any of our challenges, especially the Team one. Could this be the first time in all four seasons of Project Runway that designers have been allowed to see their models at a "half-way" point? Please write me back and correct me if I am wrong.

4) Finally , Am I the Only One Who Will Miss Chris!
Poor thing, from the moment that first Challenge occurred where he was made to run the "fashion marathon" to those fabric-filled tents, he was doomed. In this challenge, he just got it wrong. His outfit made no sense with the other two. The judges were correct in saying that each of them looked like they were from three different fashion shows. There was no real commonality. The jersey tube dress was cute, but not original or inspiring. I've seen it on the sale racks at Wet Seal, way in the back! And that bolero jacket. I knew something was wrong when I saw him place about 8 shoulder pads--one on top of another--on the model form. I just about wanted to lunge myself through the TV and remove 6 of them!!!

I love Dynasty, I love Joan Collins, in fact, I am so dying for a Thierry Mugler Retrospective at the NY Metropolitan Museum of Art, but this was none of the above. It was something a Drag Queen from Long Island would have worn--10 years ago.

But, I so love Chris. I think he went home too soon. I was really eager to see more of his designs, because I just had a feeling that he would bring that element of whimsy and fun that seems to be much needed in this season of Project Runway. Every time I saw Chris, he made me smile and want to pinch his cheeks!!! You will be missed.

Nick's Saturn Commercial

While I am digesting last nights episode and preparing to write my recap, I thought I would post about my Saturn Commercial which aired last night. I had such a great time shooting the spot. Not only were the Saturn and Bravo people great to work with, but I had the best time hanging out at DecadesTwo and fawning over all the beautiful gowns! As their bio says, "decadestwo, carries a carefully-edited selection of contemporary clothing and accessories (mostly 1990s to present day) and caters to a clientele seeking a highly unique shopping experience. " Big 'Shout out' to Christos from decadestwo. Thanks for being so accommodating and I will be back to check out more Couture soon!!

Click HERE to read my BLOG on Rethinking Design. I write about the design process for creating the TOP CHEF Apron I did last year. And if you watched the Top Chef Holiday Special last night they featured the apron in a fun little gift exchange!

Style Studio!--Holiday Edition

Bundle Up and look Fabulous!

OK, so I know that it looks like I am about to streak someone and do not have anything underneath in this photo. But, don't fret, I actually did have a t-shirt and pants underneath. It was just a VERY LOW deep-V T-Shirt!

There are several new and fun fashion segments up on MSN.com's Style Studio which involve dressing for Holiday parties and generally how to stay fashionable even in these dreary colder Winter months.
Since I am one of Style Studio's resident Glam Squad, then it is my duty to keep the US woman informed on how to make the best of these cold and dreary last months of 2007 and still look FIERCE for the Holidays. Keep that tacky X-mas tree with dingle berry ornaments sweater in your closet. Trust me, watch these segments and you will see that you have other options. We, at Style Studio, are ready come to the (fashion) rescue!

Click HERE to watch the new segments
and Keep your eye out for these fun tips:
Holiday Hide: Look 10 Pounds lighter in these outfits
Party Perfect: From office to office party in 10 minutes
Chill Out: With Hats, Gloves and Scarves
Treasure or Trash: How to shop in a vintage store

The New Miss California....NOT!

ESCANDALO!!!
Last week, my darling sister, Rita (of Survivor: Fiji fame) was in Los Angeles training the lovely contestants vying for the Miss California USA and Miss California Teen USA 2008 titles. She invited David and I to attend the finals, which were held at the historic Orpheum Theater in Downtown Los Angeles.

I wanted to attend the finals to support my sister, who looked absolutely stunning wearing one my NIKOLAKI gowns as she handed the bouquets to the Final 5. It was a nice surprise to see the beautiful Meagan Tandy, last year's Miss California USA, wearing the gown we designed for her when she competed (and received the 3rd Runner Up Title). Also in attendance were two Rita's castmates and friends from Survivor:Fiji, Michelle Yi and Alex Angarita. It was fun to watch all those girls whom Rita trained and to see her "stamp" of excellence in their walk, posture and presentation.

The pageant itself was actually an exciting one. Everything seem fine and normal. There were over 100 girls competing for both titles. I had my favorites including Miss LA who was a spunky Latina with a walk and a personality that could be seen from the nose-bleed seats at the theater. Miss Barstow and Miss Greater San Diego were gorgeous, the former being a dead ringer for Carmen Electra and Lauren Conrad of MTV's The Hills and the latter, a beautiful California blond who had "Miss USA" written all over her. These last two were the obvious favorites of the capacity audience at the Orpheum, as well.

It came as a shock then when neither of their names got called as the winner. This is went things got "pageant ugly". All one could hear were shouts of "Boo" and hisses from the entire theater when Miss Barstow was not named the winner. The sassy Miss LA, Christina Silva had been crowned the new Miss California. We happened to be seated directly behind the judges, which included last year's controversial Miss Teen USA, Katie Blair (from MTV's Pageant Place) who looked at the other judges with wonderment. There was some shuffling that had occurred right before the naming of the winners, by the judges' reps who were tabulating their scores. So there was obvious confusion, but besides this, everything seemed to be going according to a normal pageant script. I met the newly crowned Miss California USA as well as her family backstage and she was such a doll. She confided that she was a fan of Project Runway and loved the gown I designed for last year's winner and couldn't wait for me to design hers.

Cut to today. My sister calls me and tells me to go to ExtraTV.com to see the new pageant scandal: It has just been discovered that the judges scores were somehow "misread" by the accounting firm overseeing it and the winner was not the Miss LA, but in fact Miss Barstow, Raquel Beezley (the Carmen Electra/Lauren Conrad doppelganger) . At least this pageant scandal did not involve pepper spray or drug addiction. The lovely Christina Silva, Miss LA, was asked to give up the crown she just had for only 5 days and the crowd favorite, Miss Barstow now has been crowned the new Miss California USA. I am sure this is not the way she envisioned to be crowned the most beautiful woman in California. But, as they say, any publicity is good publicity. More eyes will be on her when she competes in next year's Miss USA and she will already be on the pageant radar.

Debbie Matenopoulos wears Nick Verreos

Miss Greece!

I met the fabulous Debbie Matenopoulos, TV presenter and host of E! Entertainment's "The Daily 10" show, when she hosted the 2007 Los Angeles Fashion Awards. I was co-presenting the Inspiration Award to the executive producers of Project Runway, and was rushed backstage to prepare. Once back there, I also ran into my friend Decades Two owner and another fellow Greek, Christos Garkinos. I was introduced to Debbie by Christos and before you know it, we were having a major Greek Love Fest at the Orpheum Theater! We joked that we might as well be making Gyros and Souvlakis back there! Debbie started telling people that we would be handing complimentary Feta Cheese to everyone after the show was over!

The beautiful Debbie then told me how much she loved my designs and I told her how much I would love for her to wear one of my gowns for a "red carpet" event. We joked in Greek and then we were separated--I had to present the award and, well, she had to host the show, of course. Consequently, a week later, she was asked to host the 2007 Diversity Awards and her stylist asked if I could send over some gowns. To say that I was ecstatic to then find out that my "Miss Greece" had actually ended up wearing one of my designs to host the awards show is an understatement! She looked like a Goddess in my one shoulder, side-draped jersey gown.

It is a style, which I coincidentally titled "Athena" and featured in white for my recent W San Diego Spring 2008 Collection. To illustrate what a class act Debbie is, she sent me a gorgeous bouquet of flowers as a "Thank You". Most times, I am lucky if I get the dress back dry-cleaned from some people! Needless to say, the name of that style will now be changed to "Debbie" thank you very much.

Sweet Redemption plus More-Episode 3 Recap

HOLA!

I just returned from spending three wonderful days in San Francisco where I was asked to host a fashion show/event (more on that in a later post) and literally dropped my suitcase and turned on the TV to watch this third episode of Season 4 Project Runway. Thank God for TiVo, since I got home after the episode aired and therefore could not have my weekly "Viewing Party" with Andrae, lots of champagne and cookies. For this particular episode, I decided to just put down several "thoughts". Hope you enjoy it and would love to read your feedback and thoughts on this episode.

1) Sweet Redemption:
While the episode unfolded--along with all the drama and frustrations--the words sweet redemption kept cropping up in my head, like little "Pop Up Video" bubbles. Now, let me preface my explanation by saying that I have had nothing but amazing opportunities as well as feel blessed by everything that has occurred in my life and my business as a result of being on the show. However, as you may remember, I was voted off Season 2 for making Daniel Vosovic a suit that was deemed "too feminine", as well as for a lack of pockets and jacket button/closures.

Yet, after seeing some of the creations in this episode, I could not help but feel a bit redeemed. Especially, since I remember at the time reading a lot of viewer comments saying something to the effect of "How could Nick not put buttons or pockets?" But somehow, I got to finish a fully lined jacket, a collared dress shirt, a silk scarf and skinny pants with a waistband and zip-fly in the SAME AMOUNT OF TIME as these designers. Go figure. Several of this season's designers could barely finish TWO pieces. It ain't that easy kids. Therefore, again, I have to ask the question I asked in my first recap: Are these really the most talented group of designers ever? (as Tim and Heidi proudly announced in the premiere episode).


Chloe Dao, the winner of Season 2, made a fabulous--and Challenge-winning--three-piece outfit for me, which included hand sewn buttonholes , mitered stripes and a fully lined vest. Season 3 winner, Jeffrey Sebelia made a great "Rock Star" outfit, which was (as far as I remember) fully finished also. So why couldn't these designers, who are supposed be more talented and have far more expertise than us, just finish a shirt or close the lining of a jacket? Just saying...

Now, back to the best and worst of the lot. Like the judges, I also had a difficult time trying to decide which outfit was the worst: Ricky's safety-pinned concoction, Sweet Pea's askew dress shirt or Carmen's 1920's Golf caddie go-go boy. In the end, Carmen 's badly fitting crotch was the one to go.

I did have a couple of favorites, most notably, Rami's, which looked straight out of the third floor at Saks Fifth Avenue Men's Store: Elegant, stylish and very Italian-looking. I also liked Kit's cardigan-like creation. He looked like a sexy "Mr. Rodgers". But the judges chose Jack's safe,well cut shirt and pants. It looked very much like it came from the Macy's I.N.C. brand.


2) Where did all those Men's Forms come from?
If I remember correctly , we didn't even have men's forms when we did our challenge. I actually had to fit it on one of the ladies forms in the room. Daniel Vosovic was a woman's 4, in case you are wondering, without the breasts of course! But, all of a sudden, when they return from the NBC Today Studios, there are a dozen men's forms at the Parsons Workroom. No explanation. Unfair and a bit bizarre.

3) Jack: It's called "Knocking Off"
Congratulations for winning this challenge, Jack. We loved your outfit as well as seeing your GINORMOUS pecs every other second, but there was no need to actually ruin your shorts and cut them to get the pattern. It's on page 535 of "Patternmaking for Fashion Design" by Helen Joseph-Armstrong, and is usually taught to every second year fashion design student. So, next time, no need to cut, just get that old tracing wheel out and some tissue paper and you are ready to go...

4) Speaking of GINORMOUS pecs...
Did a Bravo executive just write a big yellow "Post It" to the show's editors and say More Male Nude Skin? (I'm speaking to you Andy Cohen!!) What was going on? There was so much gratuitous display of male skin, I thought I was standing in front of an Abrecrombie and Fitch store! First, Jack was half naked through the entire episode. Then, after the constant parade of male models with their .00005 % fat content showcasing their taut bodies, I had to check my remote to see if the channel had changed to LOGO. But the sight of "I have the whitest teeth in all the United States of America", Tiki Barber (whom I admit I had no idea who he was) reassured me otherwise. Bravo knows its market demographic: It not only wants to make the gays and their girlfriends happy, but also the girlfriend's beer-drinking, football-watching husbands.
And finally:

5) Open Letter To Carmen:
Dear Carmen: There is a light at the end of the Project Runway Menswear Challenge Tunnel. I guarantee you will get a request (or two) to make your auf'ed ensemble for someone. Proof: Just ONE WEEK AGO, I received the following letter on my website regarding my "way too feminine suit" that I created for Daniel Vosovic TWO YEARS AGO, in which I was booted off the show for:


Dear Mr. Verreos, I actually just saw one of the episodes of Project Runway, and I am very interested in a suit that you constructed for another contestant, Daniel. I have been looking for a suit exactly like that forever. Do you still design men's suits, or is there someplace where you sell suits in that same style? If not, would you be interested in creating one? Please let me know.

Turkey Day Recap

Episode 2: Fashion Icon on-a-Budget?

First of all, I hope everyone is having a nice Thanksgiving and you are able to celebrate with good friends and family. While you are enjoying all the turkey, mashed potatoes and green bean casserole, here is some "Fashion Gobble Gobble"(sorry, I had to do that!) to hold you stuffed until next week.
Like last time, I will do this week's recap in question form. Ready, set, go...and don't forget to check all my grammatical errors...

1) Was This Episode Boring or Was It Just Me?
Following the footsteps of a not-so-memorable First Episode, I was ready for a really good one. I invited friends over (Andrae stopped by and brought Gelato--Yeaaay!) and served Champagne and cookies. We were ready. And all I got was a "Yawn". Now, don't get me wrong, I am not looking for drama, especially "Created Drama" (think last season's "Mother's Challenge" or my season's "Take Nick's Model"). I am not a fan of that. But it would be nice to see some "Fashion Drama". This episode had the potential, especially, with the amazing "guest star" Sarah Jessica Parker and the teaming up of designers. You know if SJP showed up in my season, I would have screamed so loud and jumped and clapped so much, it would have made my scene with Olympic Figure Skater Sasha Cohen seem like "chopped liver" in comparison. Because of previous season's infamous Team Challenges, one expected more discussion amongst the designers, friendly arguments even, and thoroughly interesting creations as a result. Other than Sweet Pea and Elisa's mulling over hand-rolled hems and spitting on the fabric(I bet the cameramen and sound guys just about died and went to heaven after they saw that!), nothing much occurred. In terms of the designs that won and lost, I liked Victorya's loose tunic of a dress with the cropped vest, but surprisingly, I also liked Elisa and Sweet Pea's "polymorphic" dress and cape. Great color, fashionably styled, yet wearable. Poor thing, "Oliver Twist" twin, Marion's design did look, as Michael Kors stated, like something Pocahontas would have worn. Also, I can't help but think how many of the designers did leggings/tights because they were influenced by what Sarah Jessica Parker was wearing when she met them.
Overall, though, I felt this was a rather uneventful episode with rather unremarkable clothes.

2) Was it Uneventful because of their Budget and the fact that they had to design for BITTEN?
So then I began thinking, could it have been the fact that they only had $15 for fabric and trims and had to design for a "budget" yet fashion-savvy line? First, I don't know how they found enough fabric to create an outfit, especially at Mood, only having $15. The last time I was there, I was hard-pressed to find their "Dollar Bin". Actually, I never saw one. So how did they do it? I guess poly/cotton jersey is cheap, but even at retail prices, these stores can charge up to $8/yard for it. I would need at least 2 yards to make a top and leggings , and that's it. I have spent all my budget. What about a zipper, lining, or another contrast fabric? I have a sneaky feeling somebody somewhere sneaked these designers some extra cash... Just saying.
Now, in regards to designing for Bitten, ponder the following: Would it have been more exciting of an episode if the designers had to create an ensemble for Sarah Jessica Parker, for the Black-tie Gala/Opening of a Metropolitan Museum Costume Exhibit, in which she would have worn the outfit? All I kept thinking of was that photo of her with Alexander McQueen in his "Couture-Tartan" design. I know some people may think that she was a "fashion disaster", but personally, this was GENIUS! Who else would do that? That's one of the many reasons I LOVE Sarah Jessica Parker. she takes fashion risks. I think this "fantasy" challenge would have been possibly more fun to watch. But I do understand the tie-in with SJP and her line.

3) Is the Second Episode of every season going to be an "Ode To Andrae Crying Episode"?
Now, remember, I was watching this episode with the fabulous Mr. Gonzalo, and he noted "Why is the second episode going to be about crying? I think I started a second episode trend " I cannot recall if anyone cried in the second episode of Season 3, but if they did, please let me know. But I could not believe all the tears that flowed in this episode. First Chris, then Ricky crying so early on in the challenge--he barely had met Sarah Jessica Parker for goodness sake--made me skeptically think that this was footage from his "exit interview" questionably interjected in the beginning of the episode. Then even Carmen joined in on the cry fest at elimination. The last straw was watching usually bitchy "I-am-the-fiercest-thing-since- John Galliano" Christian actually tear up. I swear I saw tears behind those Alain Mikli glasses of his!

See you next time, and keep on crying...and sewing!

Fashion Spice!!

Nick and Daphne on The Fashion Team

Here are the videos of my last appearance on The Fashion Team. As I previously wrote on this blog, I had a fantastic time filming yet another episode for the TV Guide Channel. They are the best people to work with, and I always have a great time with the crew, including all the cameramen, sound guys and Amanda, the wardrobe stylist...Speaking of wardrobe, be sure to check out Daphne, the "hostess-with-the-most-ess", she's wearing one of my dresses, a navy blue silk charmeuse mini-shirt dress.

TV Guide Channel's The Fashion Team-Again???

Last Friday, I was asked to co-host the TV Guide Channel's The Fashion Team show once again with the effervescent Daphne Brogdon. I jumped at the chance since this time I would NOT have to be in full Marie Antoinette's "Dandy Cousin" 18TH Century costume. I would be in my own 2007 wardrobe, thank you very much!
I had a ball with Daphne, dishing on some red carpet fashions as well as TV Show fashions. As in every episode of The Fashion Team, we--the hosts--give the fashions a grade, from A to F. We graded shows (by how pertinent the fashions are to 'real life') that ranged from CSI: Miami(Loved it) to My Name Is Earl(you know I appreciate the Trailer Trash look!). We even graded the first Season 4 premiere episode of Project Runway. Daphne gave it a high grade. I , on the other hand, not so much (I'm still not over those baby doll dresses in a challenge where designers are supposed to 'Bring It'!). We also did a great interview with the Creative Director of LA-based high-end denim brand, Generic Jeans.
The episodes can be seen on the TV Guide Channel, beginning tonight (Sunday) at 7 PM, and in case you miss it, also throughout this week (Monday 12:00 AM, 4 PM; Wednesday 2 PM; Thursday 11 PM). But make sure to check your local listings since times may vary (I sound like a TV ad!)

Season 4 First Episode Recap... Sort of

Finally!

The premiere of Season 4 Project Runway was upon us, and not a moment too soon! Instead of recapping the entire episode and spending way too much unnecessary space here, I want to try something different. Besides , I am sure that everyone and their mother from Honolulu to Poughkeepsie, and all those 15 year old kids who-have-become-YouTube-blog-phenomenons in between will surely be putting their two cents into who did their best, who made something "whickety-whack" and who "underwhelmed" them.

I want to pose Three "Uncle Nick Project Runway" Questions in regards to this first episode:

1) Is this really THE MOST TALENTED bunch of designers ever?

It's rather insulting for all the actual talent that has been seen from previous seasons who have created marvelous work. If I get sick and tired of hearing this tired line every season from my dear Tim Gunn, imagine how Kara Saun, Jay McCarroll , Chloe Dao and Jeffrey Sebelia feel? Especially after seeing this first episode. Or maybe they don't care. I haven't asked them lately... Irregardless, I feel that a lot of these dresses looked amateur, save Rami Kashou's. His was ethereal and beautifully draped. I know that for our season, we actually had a few days to create the garment we did for the Season 2 First Challenge, but still. Several of the dresses (Simone, Ricky) any girl can find in a local mall. An empire-cut baby doll? Really? Give me something kids! Inspire me!(Now, I am sounding like "Instructor Nick"!) Kit's looked straight out of "Hot Topic", and don't let me start on Elisa's turquoise ripped-into-shreds nightmare. In a non-reality show world, she would have been out. Lest we forget, it is still a TV show and Elisa would make for nice quirky "I design dresses based out of the grass I rub into my cloth" fodder worth watching. Simone

was forgettable, therefore she was the one to go.

2)Has Project Runway becoming the new "Real World"?

One more screen caption of Rami's tank top-wearing pecs and Jack's six-pack abs (I counted!) and the next thing I am going to see is them jump into a hot tub, get drunk and start, well you get the picture. Sexy sells, I get it. And nowadays, image is very important for designers. Look at Marc Jacobs' transformation from librarian-computer-grunge-geek to Chelsea hottie! But I don't want to start thinking that this Emmy-award nominated show is falling prey to MTV-style show of gratuitous skin. It's nice to watch, yes. But it's even better to watch the designers go through the motions of creating amazing garments--or crazy ones!

3) Do the Season 4 Models have that "WOW" factor the previous seasons ones did?

They are pretty, I do not deny that. But models should be extraordinarily pretty. Tarah, Danielle, Amanda, Marilinda...these girls turn heads. These new models don't have that "Wow" factor that Chloe's Grace did, for example. It is a known fact that the Project Runway models do not get paid for their time on the show and risk losing actual paying gigs, editorials, etc. by being there for 12 hours in a single day. Do you think that word has gotten around and agencies just don't want to risk that for their models or models don't feel the end result (What are they getting out of this?) is worth the time? Who knows. I just pose the question.

Where's John?

Mustaches are HOT!

A couple of weeks ago, my "old" friend John Wade invited me to a Marc Jacobs Trunk Show, showing the latest Spring 2008 runway collection at the Melrose Place boutique here in LA. I hadn't seen John in a while so I jumped into my car, got my skinniest of jeans on and headed to the Westside for a chance to see this controversial Marc Jacobs collection up close, and more importantly, to see my John! He was looking very 1980's Magnum P.I. with that mustache.
I got to view-and touch- some pieces from the collection, including the first look "No. 56", a corseted tulle and organza beaded creation, which I think cost about $8,000!! And we made one of our friends try on the little bubblegum pink jersey number from the show as well. One interesting note: All the samples said "Size 4", but they were altered to fit those teeny tiny runway models, so in actuality, a lot where size 0 or 2. The shoes were the best. Every woman is going to want to own those "backward" pumps.

John, by the way, is doing FABULOUSLY. He's part of a valued team that makes Marc Jacobs be the amazing design brand that it is. He had been in Savannah, Georgia for a while, helping open the the new Marc Jacobs store there and then moved to San Francisco, where he was sent to help re-organize that store.
Coincidentally, he had been working a lot with the window displays of all the West Coast stores (Las Vegas, LA, SF) and has moved back to Los Angeles, where he has just gotten a "very big promotion". Love that! He is doing very good indeed.

Oh Patti!!!

A Beautiful Thing

Before you say anything: No, I did not, under any circumstances design the gown on the left shown very proudly (why?) by the Diva , Patti Labelle. I rarely comment here about other people's sites and blogs, however, that might change. One of my favorite sites is called GoFugYourself, where commentaries are made on celebrities who make unfortunate dress choices. "Fugly Is The New Pretty" is their motto and Bai Ling is their mascot! Their writing is biting, witty and very very funny. This last week they just about KILLED me with laughter with their commentary on Miss Patti Labelle. I just about forwarded the link to 50 friends and acquaintances on my Address Book! So tickled was I that I decided to give those Fug webmaster girls big props here on my little ol' blog.
If you are ever in need of a good laugh, then read the full posting HERE
It is simply GENIUS. Keep me laughing ladies and keep finding FUGS on that red carpet! Love ya!

Eco Chic--Going Green for Fashion!

In an effort to raise Eco-consciousness, NBC/Universal and all its entities, which of course includes the Bravo Network, proclaimed last week "Green Week". BravoTv.com asked me to write a blog on Eco-chic and what that means to me. I decided to not just give a lecture of sorts about one should do, in terms of clothing, to be more "Green friendly", but also add a Southern California twist to it. I have been taking "baby steps" myself in being more Eco-conscious by (finally) getting separate waste baskets for cans, paper, etc. as well as replacing light bulbs, and so on.

In terms of clothing, I thing my love for "Green" was given enlightened when I created a (according to Michael Kors) vulgar and very Green dress, made completely out of plants for the infamous Garden Party/Flower Power Challenge from Season 2 of Project Runway. I also think I have come a long way, considering "Going Green" for me meant wearing TWO , not just one, puka shell necklaces! That's how much "Granola Crunch Eco-friendly" I could bring into my style atmosphere. And like Puka Shells are really Eco friendly! That could be debated...
For my entire BravoTV.com blog on the Fashion Forward section :
Click HERE

Back In The Closet!

No, it's not what you think! MyCloset.com asked to come take a peek at my Downtown Los Angeles Studio Loft several months ago, and somehow, under a dazed and confused stupor (just kidding) , I obliged. I thought it would be fun for people to see my studio as well as where I keep my overstuffed closet of clothes.

I admit, I am a bit of a clotheshorse and have trouble getting rid of things, so I just buy new closets to fit them all in. I have gotten better and do a "cleaning" every other month, and give away a lot of my clothes to worthwhile organizations like "Out Of The Closet". They also got a lot of fun photos of me holding up several pieces from my NIKOLAKI collection so you get a look inside my "Atelier" and where I have all my gowns --I look just like a Showroom Rep!

They even got me to show them my special pull-out drawer that encloses my tie collection(I have over 50!), it looks like a tie display at Barney's NY! Make sure to click on all the three pages , since they took a photo of the mini-shrine I have devoted to the my "Project Runway My Scene Barbie".
To View my Closet click HERE

Ferris State Michigan

Nick & Andrae Road Show:
Next Stop: Ferris State Michigan!
About a month ago, fellow Season 2 designer Andrae Gonzalo and I were invited by Ferris State University in Big Rapids Michigan to speak about (wait for it!) : Proper Business Attire for University Students going into the "work force" as well as about Project Runway. You take a guess what they were most interested in hearing? Yep, if you answered "Project Runway", you were right. After an hour discussion advice on what young men and women should wear when going to an interview, the first question revolved around whether or not Andrae ever got to go to Red Lobster with his (unsuspecting) made-up boyfriend, Tim Gunn!
Unfortunately, I forgot to bring a camera so I asked several of the wonderful students who took photos, to email me the photos they took. Only one took me up on that offer (there were 400 attendees!) and that was Luke Mamo (seen here in his Middle Eastern-by-way-of-Urban-Outfitters- scarf). Him and his friends actually hail from CMU and study fashion there. Andrae and I had a wonderful time with our hosts at Ferris as well as meeting all the people (we signed 'autographs' and took photos afterwards for over an hour) who came out, during Midterms , to see us.
Afterwards, our hosts took us to Applebee's for a great dinner. Andrae and I were Applebee's 'virgins', therefore this was a treat! There was no "Red Lobster" in Big Rapids, but if there was, that's where we would have been. Our Big Rapids Sightseeing Tour culminated with going to a Gun and Liquor Store. I am not kidding: Welcome to Michigan: Here's a Gun and Liquor Store for your one-stop shopping convenience! Andrae and I went CRAZY! We'd never seen anything like that and really had fun, trying on some "huntin" fashion and buying some stuff. Don't worry , neither of us are animal hunters. We just hunt fashion victims!

Heidi's Halloween-Part TWO!!!!

Ghouls, Goblins, Ghosts and Britney?

If I was to sum up Halloween in Los Angeles it would come down to three things:
1. Traffic
2. Halloween Ho's and scary costumes and
3. Paparazzi Madness

Here's my recap of the night: I attended Heidi Klum's annual Halloween bash to do some "red carpet" "Uncle Nick" dishing (see below for link to the YouTube video) as well as to have some fun. I dressed up as an 18th Century Courtesan and David was a Vampire a la Anne Rice's "Interview With A Vampire". I wish I could say that I actually made my fabulous costume, but alas, I would be lying. I got it from one of Southern California's oldest costumes houses, Western Costumes.

It took more than an hour to drive from my Downtown Los Angeles Studio to Hollywood. It's only a 10 mile trip! Did I tell you how much I HATE LA traffic. You'd think we Angelenos would be used to it but it still shocks the nerves. Last night, stuck in that infamous traffic, I was struck with an uneasy urge to want to MOVE TO A QUIET FARM in KANSAS!!

Once in the Green Door club, we made our way past all the costumed attendees and immediately met up with my partner-in-fashion-crimes, Season 2 designer Raymundo Balthazar looking like he was just at Oil Can Harry's (if you live in LA, you'll understand). We also ran into Season 4 designer, Rami Kashou, looking quite ghoulish. We also saw Season 2 designer Santino Rice hanging out with Season 3 winner Jeffrey Sebelia. After what seemed like an eternity (traffic inside the club mirrored the traffic outside!), we finally made it to the cordoned-off "VIP" area, where Heidi Klum was. Heidi was decked out in her hand-painted ensemble, dressed as a sexy scary cat. I am not exaggerating when I say this: Her figure looked FLAWLESS! I want to know her secret, besides having a trainer and a cook at her beck and call 24 hours a day...

At the VIP lounge, we recognized Director Quentin Tarantino and were introduced to Seal's brother, who looked quiet scary, like an extra from "28 Days Later". Desperate Housewives actor Kyle McLahlan and his wife, Desiree Gruber were also hanging out in Heidi's VIP room. Kyle looked hilarious as a golfer-gone-wrong with a golf ball stuck on his forehead! Desiree was a sexy catburglar who had just stolen a priceless diamond ring. We also ran into several good friends including Jane Cha, dressed as Riyo Mori, Miss Universe. Her powder blue gown was a perfectly bad hybrid of a prom dress and a bridesmaid dress. My friend Chad looked cute and wholesome as a sailor. I just wanted to pinch his cheeks all night long! I even ran into an ORBIT GUM GIRL!!

From the VIP area, I could see all the party goers and their costumes and quickly made this observation: Why do grown, intelligent women use Halloween as a night to bring out their "inner Ho". What is that about? And when did this phenomenon begin to occur? It baffles me. Heidi was COVERED from head toe and yet, she was still THE SEXIEST WOMAN at the club. There were so many "Naughty Nurse", "Naughty Nun", "Naughty housewife", I wanted to douse them all with alcohol. I am by no means a prude, but all that naughtiness isn't really necessary ladies.

Speaking of INNER HO'S: All of a sudden there was this mad rush in the club and before we knew it, we find out Britney Spears had entered the club! The party went from a regular club atmosphere to sheer madness because Britney had arrived. It went from being "Heidi's Halloween" to "Britney's Halloween" in 2.2 seconds. Like witnessing a car wreck, we decided to venture outside of the VIP area to to see if we could catch a glimpse of Miss Spears and headed for the bar. There, we found Britney wearing some heart-shaped glasses and sporting what looked like a feather boa--along with her entourage 0f about 10 hangers-on as well as a bunch of her angry-looking bodyguards. Party guests were shoving and pushing just to get a glimpse of her. It was very surreal. In all this madness, we spot Heidi actually walking to this bar area where Britney was. They greeted each other, posed for photos and POOF! Heidi was gone. In my bitchy mind, I concocted a fantasy conversation which had Heidi saying "Let me show her whose party this really is...!" Soon after, Britney left and so did we. Outside as she departed, what ensued looked like something out of the last night of Princess Diana's life: About 15 cars dangerously raced and screeched right behind her while about 50 paparazzi ran (cameras in tow) to get photos and film of her as she sped away. It was one of the most surreal moments I have ever been a part of. It was the prefect crazy ending to a crazy-and scary night.

To watch my fun YouTube video at Heidi's Halloween 2007 Red Carpet, Click HERE

and HERE to watch the TMZ Video where TMZ caught all those Halloween Ho's, as well as myself waiting to get my car.