Goal and Win!

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!

WWD Announces FGI's Rising Star Finalists!

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.

On The Rise With FGI!

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.