You might not believe a classically trained chef with a degree in women’s studies and studio art would be the founder of a local nail polish subscription company. But behind every working girl is a million dollar idea waiting to materialize.
Tulane graduate L.T. Niosi had not even untied her apron before she was offered a job in New York City working for online media outlets like Food Network and Four Seasons Magazine. A dreamer disenchanted with a downtown life doing menial tasks like HTML coding, Niosi decided to take life by the reins, with a good manicure that is, and build her own startup. In May, she called it quits with her old life and by August the first shipment of her new brand, Pistol Polish, arrived at the doorsteps of eager subscribers.
It all started with a cup of coffee and a New York Times article on a phenomenon known as the “Lipstick Push." In short, the concept argues that the cosmetic industry is one of few that continues to boom during an economic downturn. Something clicked, and Niosi knew right away that she was on to something. One thing lead to another and now the Northern transplant is living in her favorite city in the South, putting the lipstick push to test.
It makes sense, she says. “Women will still treat themselves to a lipstick or polish, even if they’re watching their spending, because it’s a quick and inexpensive boost.”
If there's one thing Style Night Out 2012 accomplished last Thursday night, it was to make me want to go shopping. Bad.
The third annual event took place at Morrison in SouthPark, featuring the fall fashions of more than 30 independently owned boutiques, with models styled by Charlotte makeup artists and salons.
As I sat in my chair, gazing at the various trends (Side note: Faux fur vests? Not for me, but they were all over the runway. I did enjoy the sparkly New Year's Eve gear, though.) I couldn't help but feel a little proud of Charlotte. Our city isn't exactly a destination location in the South for shopping, but here's an event that makes you think twice about that statement. Congratulations to organizer Effie Loukas and her team for a job well done.
Check out this quick video and slideshow I put together of some of my favorite looks from the runway. In other words: Friends and family, these are pieces you can pick up for my upcoming birthday.
Virgo: (Aug. 23- Sept. 22)
Styleascope is a lighthearted horoscope that puts a spotlight on local fashion. Believe it or not, Zodiac signs say a lot about a person. They speak to an individual's strengths, weaknesses, romantic attractions, values, desires and ... fashion sense? Yep! The stars can serve as a personal stylist, too. No sign is alike, so your wardrobes shouldn't be either. My aim is to blend fashion and the cosmos by providing a guide to show you what's in store at local boutiques (and why your sign is telling you to wear it). Instead of the runway, I'll use the stars as my guide. So, what's your sign?
Name: Katherine Cabanillas
Birthday: Sept. 1
Age: 22
Do you read your horoscope? “Sometimes, I used to read the MSN ones every day and they would freak me out. It’s crazy how related horoscopes can be to real life.”
The Virgo inherited its virginal aura from Astraea, the Greek goddess of innocence. Similarly, this earth sign is dominated by purity and honesty. It’s rare for a Virgo to be found behind a malicious or defiant act. Seemingly shy, Virgos simply tend to be grounded and perceptive, always observing and taking notes of their surroundings. You can always depend on the Virgo to keep calm and maintain clarity in any situation. Fashionably, the sign is drawn to elegant and detailed pieces. As far as fit, they usually stick with a tailored look to portray their analytical and practical qualities. They rarely opt for flashy or risque outfits and prefer classic designs. When it comes to color, a Virgo will most likely wear neutral colors like dark brown, navy blue and cream. Virgos keep a simple and neat closet and will never take a fashion risk. They’re not a fan of trends and are always faithful to their own sense of style. (Source: www.glo.com)
All pieces from Vivian B, 3100 N. Davidson St.
Dress: Garcia, $130
Bracelets: $26
Last night, The PPL hosted Resurrection: A Forum on Sustainable Fashion at Packard Place (an awesome space, by the way!). Seven local designers came out on stage to chat with host Mike Watson about their aesthetics, how they approach recycled fashion and gave details on how they created their looks. According to one statistic, the average American throws away 68 pounds of clothing and textiles a year.
Seeing as the Democrats are all about saving the Earth, the forum on sustainability was fitting for the day before the DNC began.
Designers showcasing their work included: Ana Dee of Moonshine Apparel, 13-year-old Katie Seeds, Caroline Cook Frers of Frock Shop, Cigi Guz with her Speakeasy Boutique, Andre Jarrid's The Style Monster, Caleb Clark of Enemy to Fashion and artist Flavia Lovatelli of Artesa.
From revamping pieces found at Goodwill to creating a chic, trendy garment out of tablecloth linens, the lesson of the evening was simple: Recycle your clothing.