District L

Dear Santa,

You must admit, this has been a bit of a rough year. Between the East Coast earthquake, “Hurricane” Irene, and two apocalypses, District L proposes that you take all things into consideration and grade on a curve this holiday season. Besides, compared to last year, we haven’t been all that bad.

First and foremost, we developed a little financial responsibility. We didn’t spend ANY rent money on United Nude shoes or A.OK knits this year. Honestly! We always used our credit cards instead.

Furthermore, we only partied on weekdays when it was really, really vital. You can’t deny the importance of Alan Cumming’s fragrance launch, anything Anna Dello Russo, and Lois Eastlund’s evening revelries. And how can you expect us to skip an open bar at Highline Stages, an event at the Chelsea Art Museum, or… okay, fine. It's true. We never miss an opportunity to have fun.

But we were taught the virtue of positivity by Lela Rose and the importance of a full eight hours by Kaelen. And perhaps we even learned how to relax a bit with the help of Nomia, Sergio Davila, and Son Jung Wan.

So, if we were you, we’d check the list three times -- before Mathieu Mirano pours something special into your milk.

Sincerely,

District L

In NYE anticipation – yes, already – we have set a melodic tone to ring in the new year. At Manhattan Center Hammerstein Ballroom, Matt & Kim will be following Body Language for one last 2011 performance.

Brooklyn-based group, Body Language, released Falling Out this past September, featuring driving percussive beats and a hypnotic use of choral patterning. Their self-described “shifty disco” will harmonize effortlessly with leather skirts by Erin Barr, glitzy short-sets by Cheng, or a daring deep-V bodysuit by Miguel Antoinne.

Post by Amanda LaMela

This might be the polar opposite of any economy-driven protest. But it will certainly inspire movement.

Last season, we were introduced to the edgy intensity that is Mordekai by Ken Borochov – a powerful collection of scepters, crowns, and ammunition necklaces.

This season, titled Half Breed, combines Borochov’s regal approach with sharp modern pieces and wistfully ethereal styling. Feathers and tribal adornments are mixed with python slap bracelets and neon chokers for a look that cannot be typecasted by traditional standards. Instead, Half-Breed is the successful conception of Borochov’s fashion-mutt, the stimulating hybrid of stately, indigenous, and contemporary.

Post by Amanda LaMela

Last season, designer Cheng-Huai Chuang brought us a Lolita-esque collection – femme fatale with a girlish façade. Since then, Cheng’s girls have ditched their good-girl charade, opting for a bolder form of feminine prowess. The plunging necklines and ruffles returned from last season, now garnished with leather harnesses and embellished hardware.

Post Amanda LaMela

Mathieu Mirano Spring 2012 narrates an old-fashioned love story, taken place in a simpler time before divorce lawyers, forensic toxicology, and fingerprinting were commonplace.

In hued leathers, elegantly draped gowns, and ombre sheaths, a murderous woman finds solstice in Mirano’s exquisite designs. Scandalous spins on classic silhouettes lay the foundation for Mathieu's winning recipe - but we think he might have a secret ingredient.

Post by Amanda LaMela

During an abundant wave of New York nightlife openings, “Midnight Safari” seems like the perfectly compelling collection title for young designer, Miguel Antoinne. His namesake line, miguelAntoinne, is rich with updated tailoring and geometric layering. Leather-trim blazers, asymmetrical frocks, and subtly-striped legwear would make for a magnetic evening at The Electric Room. Or take a more buttoned-up approach with a knee-length shirtdress for a nostalgic night at Bathtub Gin.

Or perhaps a monochromatic fabric combination with the occasional sequined pant should be within arm’s reach, in case Le Baron finally decides to open...

Post by Amanda LaMela

Last night marked three years in the LES for Lois Eastlund. Friends and fanatics celebrated in her 153 Ludlow boutique with an evening of mingling, drinking, and most certainly, shopping. Lois Eastlund’s loyal following donned her crisp, comfortable signatures for Friday night’s festivities. Adding new pieces to her collection of versatile, color-blocked dresses and distinguishing mod styles, guests were snatching the looks that walked her runway just weeks ago. Vibrant tones and slick fabrics juxtapose basic black for a look that reflects the neighborhood just below E. Houston – flexible, energetic, and distinct.

The 11/11/11 event was sponsored by Boutiika, ATTITUDE by Jeanne, ID Pop Shop, and of course, yours truly.

Post by Amanda LaMela