District L

There are few people in this world that you can depend on for style suggestions – everyone seems to have an opinion, a licensed clothing line, two t-shirt companies, and a personal style Tumblr. So when you find reliable friends that double as unfailing fashion informants, you pay close attention.

This week, I was introduced to MEI New York, an evocative new brand with a penchant for the past. Inspired by 19^th Century menswear and Christopher Payne’s redolent aesthetic, the design duo shares a similar philosophy with the aforementioned photographer – to preserve the vanishing quality and design of yesteryear.

With close attention to detail, the MEI New York F12 collection combines utilitarian with poise for a rich, enduring debut.

Post by Amanda LaMela

This Tuesday, District L will be attending Sauza Tequila's "Ladies Who Brunch" event, hosted by expert party planner, Cathy Riva. When you're invited to enjoy fresh margaritas, express manicures, and chair massages, you cannot say no.

Riva, who's built her career by throwing top-notch soirees for socialites and making informative appearances on NBC's The Today Show, will be put to the DL test.

Because, let's face it, we know a good party.

Post by Amanda LaMela

Images [from top to bottom, left to right]: Caitlin Moe, Rebecca Formichella, Amanda LaMela, Nicolas Sera-Leyva, Amanda Lepore

The weekend began with EFFEN vodka and edgy electronic beats by Savoy – and it ended with Sunday’s sidewalk visit to Hulbert Waldroup, the infamous artist on West Broadway. Toss in a few glasses of champagne, a brunch session at Freemans, one major OAK sale, and a lazy afternoon at the Tribeca Grand Hotel…

No amount of youth is being wasted on these PYTs.

And if the rumors are true, spring is right around the corner. Toss your winter coats into storage and prepare to match your wardrobe to that new abundant social calendar:

Brunch at Marc Forgione: Two-Toned Heels by Kathryn Amberleigh (219 Mott Street)

Art Shopping on West Broadway: Crescendo Dot Dress by Lois Eastlund (153 Ludlow Street)

Nighttime Rooftop Pregame: Impact Silk Crop Jacket by Stylein (EVA New York)

Post by Amanda LaMela

It was a laissez-faire affair last evening at Lu Magnus gallery. Arriving at the Lower East Side space for New Fashion: Works by 6 Emerging Designers, we were instantly reminded of another favorite designer's presentation, Ann Yee Collection back in S/S 2011 at ION Studios.

If you'll recall, at Yee's showing, models engaged attendees, chatting, mingling, and lounging lackadaisically in oversized shades. The mood at Lu Magnus was just as bright and easy, with models clustered cheerfully together sporting the designs of emerging talents like Guy French, Steve Zerbe, and of course our personal favorite R+R - the clever and subtle collaboration between designers Rebecca Formichella and Rita Watson.

Among those showing that evening, R+R was definitely a stand-out - their soft, feminine forms were lent a hard edge by way of clever texture play and asymmetry. Inspired by tales of childhood and nature, each look possessed at once both an innocence and a darkness - a youthful playfulness pitted against a deep, impenetrable wood.

The skilled young duo, recently graduated from SCAD, petitioned to work together on their final senior project, rather than pursue independent final collections. Their dedication to collaboration speaks to their maturity as designers and to their continued success. It's reassuring to see talent that have such a defined point of view, and a refined aesthetic, so early on in their careers.

Post by Nicolas Sera-Leyva

Using party photos to cover an event is the best excuse I have for consistent narcissistic indulgence. But the fact still remains that Starboard Hudson is a fantastic venue and a lasting DL favorite. We navigated the waters with Starboard Captains, Sarah and Jessica, as well as designer, Rebecca Formichella. With a constant congregation of fabulous night owls, we're already signing up for the next event!

Post by Amanda LaMela

If you’re awesome at what you do and nice to your friends, they will oftentimes turn into your best publicists. At about midnight last night, a friend of mine was psyched enough to pass along the newest work from her pal, Rebecca Formichella. As a recent SCAD grad, one would be surprised to find the substantial following she’s already earned herself. But after perusing her most recent shoot, it appeared that her testimonials were the result of more than just social courtesy.

She is really just that fabulous.

In her most recent collaboration with Rita Watson, Formichella combines romance and audacity – but not in the exhausted ballerina-gone-bad motif. Instead, she injects sophistication and austerity into her romantic theme. Her collection conjures a woman who is not rebellious, but rather instinctively and subtly dangerous.

And subtly is key, as Rebecca effortlessly works lace and softer trims into deconstructed menswear. By placing bows and voluminous gathers on the backs of dresses, she achieves a dreamy, yet candid experience.

Post by Amanda LaMela