London Fashion Week AW19 Highlights

Old Hollywood 1950s Glam Reborn 

Designer: Mark Fast 

Celebrating female silhouettes invite you to gaze into time as you visit Mark Fast’s swift fashion ascension. With make up by Pablo Rodriguez of Illamasqua curves and a feminine palate of pastels & bright colors strut down the runway. Long silk-like fringe, and lustrous knitwear; fluffy, flirty, knitted-fringe effortlessly graces the catwalk. 

Hair by Maria Kovacs for TIGI helped relive the days of 1950s’ jazz clubs, accompanied by a pianists whistling seductive tunes on a baby grand instrument. The nostalgic era of big band tunes with Ella Fitzgerald. Mark’s collection followed fashion trends with keeping a signature edge, his fashion presentation was riveting and spectacular!’ 

This was a Fashion Scout production located at London’s Freemasons Hall. 

Click here to view the video for Mark Fast's AW19 Collection 

Editor: William Nero

Photos: Kye Adams

A Class Act

Designer: Helen Woollam

Hellavagirl, designer Helen Woollams shocked audiences with a nail biting presentation. With production by Fashion Scout at London’s famed Freemasons’ Hall, a graceful ballerinas’ representation of Christ with a gold crown sets the tone of this show from its inception. 

The arabesque attitude, grande rond de jambe, and plié all tell her story, yet reflect the models’ runway anecdote. Head of make up was Jo Sugar, assisted by London Makeup School using KRYOLAN products. White streaks painted on each of the models’ faces added to the intrigue of what or who followed. 

Dramatic collars greeted you individually, accompanied by eloquent gowns and fabulous jumpers. The designers’ original use of flowers and ruffles gave the layered gowns a garden-esque appeal. Hair was by Toni and Guy, Label.M. Mounds of carefully draped tulle accented some of her prized collections. Velvet, crystals, lace, & tulle were amongst the many fabrics rich in texture, and fit for a Queen. A display of culture wrapped with a bow. Daring, bold, and beautiful. Helen stands out amongst myriads of London Fashion Week designer brilliance!

PR: Becky Mullins 

Skin treatment: One Skin

Click here for video of Helen Woollams AW19 collection

Editor: William Nero
Photos: Kye Adams

Sheer Perfection

Designer: Pam Hogg

Fashion goers were truly split down the middle of whether to attend Burberry or Pam Hogg,  as time schedules conflicted. With hair by Indira Schauwecker, spandex, chiffons, lycra, mesh paired with metallics, & vividly colored faux furs completed desired looks for Pam's collection. Make up by Liz Martin products by KRYOLAN, playfully placed shaped fabrics that draped the models bodies effortlessly similar to clothes on a hanger.

Pam Hogg took her inspiration from the city that never sleeps, and turned it into an eyebrow raising, adventurous fashion circus. The art of the risqué approach still held quite a measure of class.  The audience was left stunned! 

The show was engineered by Paul Jackson, and produced by Fashion Scout at Freemasons hall in London, U.K.

Show Call: Martyn Roberts 

Opening track: Taka MUKA (instruments production), Pam Hogg

Click here to view video of Pam Hogg's AW19 Collection

Editor: William Nero

Photos: Kye Adams and Shanice R. Jones

Greatest Love of All 

Designer: Limkokwing

This outspoken collection through fashion expressed in volumes the life of Whitney Houston, and intertwined the movie she was known for, “The Bodygaurd.” 

Fashion garments by Limkokwing University began telling the peaceful story of Whitney, with her modeling youth & rise to success after ‘the bodyguard’. Whitney’s life spiraling out of control up until her tumultuous death were all displayed in beautiful sequins, and  captivating fringe. Brilliantly sparkled & bedazzled hoods & gowns continued to storm down the runway. 

Hair was styled by Jon Wildson & the Toni and Guy session team. Make up was by Beth Margetts & the London Make Up School Pro Team, using products by KRYOLAN. Silver gowns with pockets of metallic silver sequins pockets of black ostrich feathers. Shimmery onyx-colored leather, black-beaded fringe, studded embellishments, & sophisticated prints all added to the prestige in this collection.

The designer incorporated a youthful twist to A-symmetrical, high-waisted skirts with highlighted splits by adding feathers, outlining the upper thigh. Accessories were by Wanderlust & Co. and Saadiah Aziz. Musically her most memorable hits were married with feminine sexy innovative powerful designs to interpret this carefully thought out fashion work of art!

This was a Fashion Scout production located at Londons’ Freemasons Hall.



Click here to view video of Limkokwing's AW19 collection

Editor: William Nero

Photos: Kye Adams

Nelsan Ellis Remembered

Nelsan Ellis was a philanthropist; he privately gave countless hours, efforts, time, finances, & energy to various organizations & causes without wanting acclaim or the usual celebrity pomp & circumstance. Nelsan loved children, and did his best to make a positive impact on all those he encountered. Nelsan was not just a friend, but a true friend to all that was blessed with an opportunity to spend real time with and truly know him. 

As TMZ reported on July 8th, 2017, Harvey, Illinois native, and HBO's 'True Blood' Star, Actor Nelsan Ellis, passed away from heart failure at age 39. I'm not quite sure why any of those aforementioned facts weren't published or highlighted, as his private indiscretions were certainly made public without hesitation. While mentioning his struggles or downfall, it should also be noted that he even gave his time and energy to the needy. Most times, those adult in age but not in mind children, even or so called 'friends' who didn't deserve it..(this is directed at them, they know who they are😎😉😘)  to his detriment🙏, were amongst the necessitous. This takes a toll on any human -- at times people find various unfortunate ways to take a break or a space to mentally heal. 

         Nelsan Ellis 1977-2017

       Photo By: Carrell Augustus

Other lessons can be learned in lieu of this terrible tragedy, than that of struggling with addiction. If you are dealing with any issue you feel you need help to manage, do not exacerbate the situation by surrounding yourself with selfish, self-loathing, unappreciative people as they will ultimately somehow contribute to your demise. Contributing is knowing but being silent. Adding to the downfall could be standing by and doing nothing. Failing them could also be defined as, acting as if life goes on, while your friend is still here in the flesh, drowning in sorrow. Those people will suck all the life out of you, yet continue putting themselves first when you’re no longer here. The idea of putting your mask on first before helping others is necessary; if we don’t listen to those simple instructions, we could lose our life trying to save the wrong ones. It gives entirely different meaning to the term, ‘our biggest haters are sometimes in our fan club.’ I digress. Indeed it will be a headache, but if you are struggling it truly takes surrounding yourself with loving people, with the best intentions coupled with good energy & spirits.

Remembering the precious memories of my fallen friend, I must also mention, Nelsan was an extraordinary writer & poet. He was an amazing actor; his talents superseded even the ones that were seen via television. I can say with confidence as I've been taught & scored intellectually amongst Chicago's best -- Nelsan was brilliant and had an incredible mind. As he dutifully expressed in front of students, partygoers, his family, friends & staff members of the esteemed Ebony magazine; we thank you Nelsan for 'making the earth quake ' with your time here; the impact of your departure was certainly felt worldwide.

Nelsan Ellis celebrates EBONY magazine cover in Chicago with D'Nero Group & members of Metro Family Organization of Calumet, Chicago White Sox

Proud to say I had not only time with him, but an opportunity to express and nurture a friendship through its ups and downs. This while simultaneously learning to show compassion for others as Nelsan always did. My professional acumen was enhanced because of our business dealings. Nelsan's disdain for my then immature attitude taught me to be a better man and handle difficult times differently, more eloquently such as he. Prayers to all his family I was blessed with the opportunity to spend quality time with, his son Breion, Papa Ellis, Uncle Eugene, his beautiful sisters, my brother Ronnel & a host of other friends family, and loved ones who cared about him. I thank God for the opportunity; I will love you forever Nels & never forget you. Sleep peacefully King, you will be dearly missed👑.

Nelsan Ellis Celebrated

Love Always, 

William Nero 
aka
WiL-Hemina La Reina

-He👑.
www.dnerogroup.com

Social Media: @dnerogroup

Review: Basketball Mom Apparel ft Hooplyfe Event, Fashion Show, Hosted by Tami Roman

I was recently blessed to be able to attend a charity basketball game in Paris, France. I was then motivated to come back to the states and seek out the philanthropic work of those in America who strive to do the same. 

Being a Chicago native, I can attest to the fact that major parts of the city are plagued with crime, gang and gun violence. Inner city youth need an outlet such as sports to prevent them from being a product of their environment. I am the oldest of 4, and unfortunately in my childhood, I never really had the support of my parents in any extracurricular activities --  I always found myself, self-motivated. It makes my heart smile hearing of mothers supporting their children, especially inner city youth.

Initially, when the Basketball Mom Apparel featuring Hooplyfe fashion show, hosted by Tami Roman, came across my desk, I was going to send members of my team (along with Ksblissmedia) to cover it. It was not until I read the press kit, and noticed the awe-inspiring story behind the founder, Nikki Burnett, that piqued my interest to fly from NYC and attend myself.

Nikki Burnett is invested in not only her sons academic career but also his athletic one. Amongst a strenuous work schedule, Nikki found that in traveling to his basketball games, she realized she also wanted to look great. Nikki found a creative way to combine her passion for fashion,  along with spending quality time with her son. She turned this idea into a successful business, but not forgetting to give back through Hooplyfe -- that promotes and supports athletes through youth, high school, and professional careers, both through athletics and academics. This all really hit home for me!

(Left to Right: Nikki Burnett, Tami Roman)

BEFORE THE SHOW: The society art gallery was a creative event space, and I was greeted by two staff members, given a press pass and directed to the designated seating area. Slowly bloggers and eventually patrons filed in, quickly padding the quaint event space.

Polite staff passed hors d'oeuvres, and light alcoholic beverages, which was sponsored by St. Clair Vodka.  A tall, gregarious woman, resembling a model herself, was going from seat to seat, and table to table greeting everyone, making sure they were enjoying themselves and ready for the show. I came to discover this was the publicist for the event, Jennifer Day. This fact significant because usually corresponding through email doesn't give a true idea of what people are like. She was quite polite and definitely got the entire crowd pumped up and ready for the show. A true delight and great addition to make this event come to fruition.

    (Left to Right: LB, Jennifer Day, Cortri)

DJ 8Ball, played smooth grooves, mixing 90's R&B jams, slowly fusing them into modern day remakes, wooing the audience, doing it so effortlessly, the crowd not realizing there was at least a 2 hour interim before showtime.

(DJ 8Ball, Model & DJ Paris, & Kari Mari)

Shortly before the show commenced, it was time for media to get interviews with Tami Roman. AJ Linton, was the Media Relations Coordinator, and had to direct a group of at least twenty cameras, magazine crew and bloggers, all rushing to snap photos and get questions with Tami. She handled the chaos eloquently by quickly organizing everyone, limiting talent inquiries.  Having thrown major events in Chicago myself, I was highly impressed by her professional acumen.

     ( Media Relations: AJ Linton)

I had the pleasure of partying a bit with Tami in the Bahamas last year, so I already knew what an intrinsically great and down to earth person she was. A contributing media correspondent to D'Nero Group, Kari Mari, was amongst the first to interview her, and after doting each other with compliments, Tami expressed how this event was dear to her, having a daughter who has been a basketball player since childhood.

     (Left to Right: Tami Roman, Kari Mari)

       (Tami Roman & William Nero)

SHOWTIME:
Tami Roman, who has made her mark on television, hosted without the pretension and arrogance that sometimes comes along with working in entertainment. Tami started off the show with switching up the usual basketball music of pomp and circumstance, asking DJ 8Ball to give her a nice beat to dance to. She strutted up and down the runway in white leggings, a black top, white & black stiletto heels, resembling a goddess & fashion model herself. She laughed at herself with the eager crowd, making everyone feel comfortable.

The runway portion, curated with Cortri Trotter Productions (a delight to meet as well), began and the models entered the runway, one, sometimes two at a time. The male and female models sometimes used a basketball as their prop, not only strutting professionally down the runway, but playfully interacting with each other, engaging audience members. I attend a lot of NBA games myself, and noticed how closely the older models resembled professional ball players. I also noticed passion and confidence in the child models, who aspire to be professional one day.

                (Model: Jukie)

   (Runway models: Bella & Ameera)

    (Models & Hoopers: Justin & Christin)

The show wrapped with Nikki Burnett, personalizing thank you's to the people who helped developed this great production, including introducing the audience to her biggest inspiration, her son. 

REVIEW: The fashion show was short and to the point, which was great. The apparel line was a combination of athletic, flirty, fun, and fashionable. One critique would be to perhaps next time give media assigned tables, as my colleague Lisa Scott (Chicago Defender) and members of D'Nero Group were sometimes standing during the course of the night -- our table was bombarded by a couple of presumptuous bloggers. That was a bit unpleasant. The area also felt a bit cramped at times. Other than that, things were good.

        (Lisa Scott & William Nero)

I work with many entertainers and it is great to have a relationship with the talent. Usually they come in for the mere 2 hours (at best) stated in the contract with a large arrogant entourage, and do little to appease the crowd. Tami Roman stayed until well after the end of the event to pose for photos, also encouraging everyone to come party with her at the afterparty at SawTooth, in Chicago's' west loop.

Nikki is not only beautiful on the outside, but even more so on the inside.What a way to give back to the community, by establishing an apparel line that helps to fund the futures and dreams of Chicago's youth, along with bringing in talent that is just as passionate about your cause. Great job Nikki!


William Nero
CEO, D'Nero Group
Twitter:@dnerogroup
Instagram: dnerogroup
facebook.com/dnerogroup

For avid readers, check out the book "The Choice to Pull the Trigger," available digitally on iTunes, Amazon, & Barnes & Noble:

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Barnes & Noble ID: 2940148736790

(Link to B&N: http://goo.gl/hfPZjO )

Review: Fashion Bar Fashion Show in Chicago

Being from Chicago, but currently residing in New York City, I've been blessed to be invited to sit in many shows during my four years in Manhattan. This year was no different, and I was certainly looking forward to the magic, spring fashion week in New York has to offer (including the fabulous after-parties). Due to work and business dealings in Chicago, I just so happened to be in town on Thursday, February 13th, -- the day of Fashion Bar Chicago's event.

CHECK-IN: I arrived at the Drake hotel early and was greeted by a young lady and sat in a quiet comfy area, where I briefly observed the happenings before media check-in time. I noticed all volunteers and staff were polite, yet dressed so chic, & prim -- you couldn't tell the difference between staff or models, unless you noticed the subtle badges. 

My media team captured their production still setting up; the venue being transformed from a vintage, stale large business meeting room, to a contemporary posh, daring and edgy event space. A bit before check-in time I was greeted by Anthony Martinez, (Director of Communications), given All-Access media passes by his pleasant staff, along with VIP wristbands and led to where my staff would begin set-up.

BACKSTAGE: We headed backstage to begin interviews and even though the atmosphere was chaotic, there was still a sense of control. You could feel the models' excitement, Aveda hair stylists & make-up artists elated to display their expertise, with the soft spirited designers steaming, & carefully examining their art one last time for perfection. Even more interesting was witnessing Steve Alvarez (Director of Runway Execution/ Master Stylist) greet each model, make up artist, and hair dresser with a paternal nurturing.

SHOWTIME: After my interviews, my media team followed me to capture the tail end of the libations presentation. The showroom was now filled to capacity. My colleague, and friend Lisa Scott (Chicago Public Defender), can vouch that the champagne was crisp, and red wine was intellectually satisfying. The CEO of Fashion Bar, Tony Long, was humble and treated everyone like a VIP, greeting each guest, from standing room patrons to the exclusively invited guests. We were ushered to our seats, and the music began & flashing lights flickered.

Note: A percentage of proceeds went to "Inspired Youth," a program in which inner city students in the northernmost part of Chicago are benefactors. 

REVIEW: All 5 emerging artists were great but the ones to look out for are definitely Chicago's very own Columbia College graduate, Sarah Fitzgerald, and Japanese designer, Satako Mizuno. Sarah opened the show with her designs and they were punk rock, inspired with an urban twist -- Vivan Westwood would certainly be proud. Satako wowed the audience with sophisticated pieces, attention to detail like the costumes in the movie Marie Antoinette, but contemporary and flirtatious all at the same time. You heard audience gasps (I even did so a few times), applause, smiles, and even a slight standing ovation once she entered at the end. These two designers' pieces stood out the most!

A few critiques: A  larger venue or event space is necessary, as the event was sold out, and at times you briefly felt as such. Also, perhaps have staff collect the glasses from libations afterward, as most people sat them under their seat when done, sometimes an interruption on the runway.

I've sat at many fashion shows across the nation and to be frankly honest, many are quite reductive. I can indeed say Fashion Bar's stood out. I can see why Fashion Bar Chicago would be the "fashion bridge" between Los Angeles and NYC. Bravo.

Ciao,

-William Nero-

CEO, D'Nero Group

Twitter: @dnerogroup

Instagram: dnerogroup

Facebook.com/dnerogroup