Employers in finance, fashion get tough post-Weinstein
The repercussions of Harvey Weinstein's downfall spread further beyond Hollywood to the worlds of fashion and finance on Tuesday as employers showed the door to powerful men accused of sexual harassment.
Accusations that the mogul engaged in years of predatory behavior shredded his career and marriage, and lifted the lid on endemic sexual harassment -- particularly by older men preying on younger women -- in Hollywood.
Nearly three weeks after the accusations surfaced, a leading fashion photographer has now been blacklisted by some of the biggest magazines in the world and it has emerged that two male senior executives at a blue-chip finance company were recently dismissed for allegedly harassing associates.
Conde Nast confirmed Tuesday that it was axing Terry Richardson, a 65-year-old New York photographer known for sexually explicit images, acting now -- despite years of claims that he exploited models -- in the wake of Weinstein.
In the male-dominated world of US finance, an industry source confirmed that Fidelity Investments sacked portfolio manager Robert Chow, 56, after 30 years at the firm, and Gavin Baker, 41, who ran a $16 billion tech fund.
CEO Abigail Johnson, widely considered the most powerful woman in US finance, was said to be instrumental in demanding their dismissal in recent weeks.
"We simply will not, and do not, tolerate this type of behavior," Fidelity spokesman Vincent Loporchio told AFP by email.
A spokesman for Baker did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Johnson, valued at $17.5 billion by Forbes, sits atop a fund that manages $6.4 trillion in assets and is a rarity in the US finance sector where nonprofit organization Catalyst says women account for only two percent of CEOs.
- 'Unacceptable' -
The refusal by Conde Nast to publish Richardson's work is the latest indication of shrinking tolerance for powerful men accused of sexual impropriety, with actresses, models and ordinary women increasingly emboldened to speak out.
Staff at London-based Conde Nast International, whose titles include Vogue, Vanity Fair and Glamour, were informed by email that work already commissioned from Richardson should be "killed or substituted."
Conde Nast US said it had "nothing planned" with Richardson.
"Sexual harassment of any kind is unacceptable and should not be tolerated," it told AFP in an email.
Richardson -- like Weinstein -- has insisted that all relationships were consensual. On Tuesday, a representative said he was "disappointed."
The married father of two has shot campaigns for luxury fashion houses, photographed Barack Obama prior to his election as president and directed Miley Cyrus's video for her 2013 "Wrecking Ball" single in which she appeared naked.
Cyrus has since said she regrets the video.
Britain's Sunday Times newspaper had questioned why Richardson was "still feted by fashionistas" despite a "reputation as the Harvey Weinstein of fashion."
US model Cameron Russell last week launched an Instagram campaign called MyJobShouldNotIncludeAbuse that swiftly garnered more than 70 anonymous accounts of abuse, lewd behavior and harassment.
- Sexual advances -
On Tuesday, a former production assistant became the latest of more than 50 women to accuse Weinstein, alleging that he forced himself on her at his New York home in 2006, an incident that was not reported to police and may not be prosecutable.
Mimi Haleyi said Weinstein bombarded her with calls and messages, and turned up at her apartment insisting that she fly with him by private jet to Paris to watch the couture season. Each time, she said she refused.
Upon his return, she said he subjected her to sexual advances, refusing to take no for an answer and forced himself on her orally while she was on her period, apparently in a child's bedroom.
"I would not have wanted anyone to do that to me even if that person had been my romantic partner. I remember Harvey afterwards rolling over onto his back and saying 'don't you feel we're so much closer to each other now?"
"I replied 'no'," Haleyi told reporters.
Haleyi said she had not reported the incident to the police. Her lawyer, Gloria Allred, who represents other Weinstein accusers, said that the incident happened in 2006 and may be difficult to prosecute under statute of limitations laws.
On Monday, US celebrity chef John Besh, the face of New Orleans cuisine who fed world leaders and appeared on TV programs, stepped down from his company after women complained that sexual harassment was rife at his restaurants.
Besh acknowledged an affair, but denied an abusive culture at his company where women alleged co-workers and supervisors engaged in unwanted touching, made inappropriate comments, and at times tried to coerce women for sex.Read more at:short bridesmaid dresses | long bridesmaid dresses
Rihanna on her 'fluctuating body type' and how she chooses her outfits
Have you ever woken up and realized the dress you wore last week just doesn't fit today? Believe it or not, Rihanna has been there too.
The pop star and fashion designer recently opened up about her ever-changing shape, and how she approaches getting dressed in the morning. Spoiler alert: Finding the right outfit isn't a walk in the park for her either.
"I actually have had the pleasure of a fluctuating body type, where one day I can literally fit into something that is bodycon, and then the next day, the next week, I need something oversized," Rihanna told The Cut. "I need a little crop here and a high waist there to hide that part, you know?"
Rihanna, who spoke to the website to promote her latest fashion collection, encouraged girls to assess how they're feeling before choosing an outfit.
"I really pay attention every day when I go into the closet about what's working for my body thatmorning," she said. "I feel like that's how everyone should go after fashion, because it's an individual thing. And then, if you take it further, it's like: What week are you having? You having a skinny week? You having a fat week? Are we doing arms this week? We doing legs this week? We doing oversized?"
"I love to play with silhouettes as well, but I think it's important to make sure that you wear the thing that works for your body the best, and that's flattering," she continued.
At TODAY Style, we're fans of wearing what makes you feel good. And Rihanna is known for setting trends in the fashion world, so clearly her strategy works!Read more at:plus size bridesmaid dresses | one shoulder bridesmaid dresses
Weinstein leaves stain on wife Georgina Chapman’s Marchesa label
She already has declared that their marriage is over, but the “unforgivable” behaviour of disgraced mogul Harvey Weinstein also may have dealt a fatal blow to his wife’s fashion label.
Marchesa was founded by Georgina Chapman, the British designer with whom Weinstein has two young children. She created feminine, fairytale dresses for the red carpet. He ensured the Hollywood A-list wore them.
Now its future looks about as bleak as that of an aspiring actress who has just rejected the millionaire in his bathrobe.
Fashion insiders say it is game over for the brand, once worn by leading ladies from Reese Witherspoon and Sandra Bullock to Nicole Kidman and Penelope Cruz. “Bye Marchesa. Who would buy or wear it now?” says one. Another adds: “I can’t imagine any star wearing it now. They’re screwed.”
Chapman, a millionaire’s daughter from west London, began the business with her friend Keren Craig, and runs it with her brother Edward. If her disgraced husband drags the label down with him, it will add insult to injury for the former model and actress, described as “a very nice woman, warm, friendly and polite”.
“I’ve never known her to behave in any way other than graciously,” says a source. “She’s not a diva. Georgina softened Harvey — his image, if not his behaviour. His business is going to go under, and hers probably will too. I hope she’s got a very good pre-nup.”
She began dating Weinstein aged 28, in 2004, the same year she got her big break when Renee Zellweger wore the unknown label to the premiere of Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, a film distributed by Weinstein’s company Miramax. Shortly after, Cate Blanchett wore another Marchesa gown to the Rome premiere of The Aviator, another Weinstein-backed movie.
The brand has denied benefiting from Weinstein’s influence. Weinstein later admitted he helped a “little” with the Zellweger debut, but Chapman insisted her business was completely separate from that of her husband, telling one interviewer: “I would not let him near this brand, no. When it comes to fashion, it’s a separate world: think church and state.”
Not everyone agreed. “Marchesa is a brand that’s run on celebrity connections,” one insider says. “Harvey was the star-maker. He was 400 per cent, 1000 per cent (responsible for Marchesa’s high profile) on the red carpet.”
Weinstein proposed to Chapman in Venice, and they married at his home in Connecticut in 2007. She appeared in small roles in some of his films and was a judge on Project Runway, a television series of which he was executive producer.
Asked in an interview what first attracted her to him, she said: “He is probably the most charismatic person you’ll ever meet. He’s an extraordinary man and an extraordinary talent. He is my husband and I love him. I love being married. Everyone said, ‘You won’t feel any different’, but I think you do. I’m romantic. Look at my clothes! I love the idea of the fairytale.”
While Chapman and Craig have been forced to cancel their brand’s summer 2018 preview this past week, with some writing off Marchesa as a toxic brand, others believe it is unfair to punish a wife for the crimes of her husband
“I do think some stores will drop them,” says one major retailer whose stores carry Marchesa in the US. “In fashion, editors and buyers only go with what’s ‘cool’. But they won’t suffer overseas. I think they can weather the storm.”
“Look, Georgina’s a survivor,” one top fashion publicist told the New York Post. “If she can survive Harvey, she can survive anything.”Read more at:QueenieAu | cheap bridesmaid dresses
Vogue fashion director Christine Centenera's guide to Adelaide
New York-based Vogue Australia fashion director was raised in Adelaide. Ahead of returning home for this week’s Vogue Festival she reveals her favourite things about her hometown.
What do you love most about Adelaide and South Australia?
"Firstly, my parents and half of my siblings and nieces live there — who I don’t get to see often enough — while I live in New York. Secondly, everything is so close by and there's not crazy traffic all the time. But in terms of the city itself, there’s been a cultural shift towards small business surrounded by a notable urban focus in food, fashion, art and the delivery of next level interior design.
Supporting the 'local makers' and 'handmade in SA' are hashtags dominated on social media forums. A strengthening of choice in local street markets and a drive in restaurant culture that present exceptional food choices that are both healthy and breaking the rules of the norm are exciting attributes for the industry. Adelaide’s Restaurant Orana was recently awarded the coveted restaurant of the year at the national Gourmet Traveller restaurant awards. It’s great to see a growth in local businesses that are opening shop to stock only locally made product and vintage wares. Street art is ramping up and local artist Lisa King is doing great things with the launch of her new space, Cult & Harper at the port. Wineries are always flourishing and delivering the outstanding results complimentary food.
The beaches at Port Willunga are my favourite. It will be interesting to see the launch of the new concept at Henley Beach this summer with a deckchair/umbrella serviced space reminiscent of European holidays."
Why do you think there is such a thriving cultural community in Adelaide?
"Liquor licensing laws were relaxed a little a couple years ago so there have been a lot of cool little bars that have popped up throughout the city. It's creating more intimate places for people to meet up and collaborate.
This thrust of support for local creatives gives young businesses the opportunity to thrive and deliver new concepts. Local government bodies and council initiatives provide grants which enable small business the opportunity to launch and activate Adelaide streets/laneways and unused spaces."
What makes it such a successful city for festivals and the arts?
"There are many great festivals that harness the best the state has to offer. With so much variety in local produce, alcohol and entertainment, each festival brings a new vibe and appreciation for what is loved about South Australia engaging the community and harnessing the power of local product, such as: the Winter Reds, the Beer Festival, the Barossa Gourmet Festival, AFF 2017, Oz Asia festival, Winterfest, the Fringe Festival, the Cabaret Festival."
What is it that makes Adelaide so unique?
"Product, people, ease of living, landscape."
Why is it enjoying such a cultural boon right now?
"The ideas injection by Adelaide creatives and support by local governing bodies enabling small business to flourish, for example the Adelaide fashion festival. It's like the whole city is getting a revamp. Food trucks are seen throughout the city. On any given weekend you can either pick from a handful of food, fashion, farmers markets to go to or go to one of the pop up events happening around town. Shared workplace spaces are staring to become prominent, all of which are bringing more and more people together."
What is your favourite place to eat or drink in Adelaide?
"Local Japanese-inspired favourite is Shobosho, local breakfast is Whistle & Flute and Crack Kitchen, Osteria Oggi, and an Adelaide Hills favourite pizza place is Lost in a Forest. Favourite watering hole is Proof, Hill of Grace (Filipino/Modern Australian) in the Adelaide oval, restaurant Orana (modern Australian bush tucker), and Star of Greece are some of my favourites."
What do you miss most about it when you are away?
"My family."
If you could have one day there doing some of your favourite things what would they be?
"The launch of the $15m d’Arenburg Wine Cube – tasting, visiting the Central Markets, breakfast at Crack Kitchen, heading down south to the beach at Port Willunga, dining at Shobushu or Osteria Oggi, shopping at local markets and small businesses for the best in locally made product. And doing any of the above with my family!"Read more at:formal dresses australia | celebrity dresses
A flair for fashion
Inspired from different parts of India, over 200 fashion design students from Hamstech Institute of Fashion and Interior Design are gearing up for their annual fashion show titled ‘Indigenous India’ to be held on Sunday. The students, mentored by ace designer Neeta Lulla, were divided into 31 teams a few months ago and have been working hard for the big event since.
“We had interactive sessions with Neeta Lulla and got to learn so much. My collection is about the Kumbh Mela and the aghoris. I used jersey tie-and-dye techniques and hand embroidery, among others. I am excited because my collection will be showcased on the ramp,” says Syed Jesika. While Debarti Dutta adds, “I got inspired by the interiors of the Taj Mahal. The experience has been great and everyone can see all the hard work that we have put in since the last four years.”
From ancient Indian doors, Sheesh Mahal and Rogan art to denim kalamkari and ghungrus, the students have come up with some out-of-the-box ideas and designs. Gayatri Devi says that working in a team and learning things practically has been a worthwhile experience. Tanvi Mittal adds, “I fused ethnic and Western wear in my denim kalamkari collection. People have been appreciating it a lot and I am positive that it will stand out from the rest.”
On the other hand, Vineet and Shravya Sri’s collection has been inspired by the Kalachakra. “We thought this was a unique theme because the chakras are not just known in India, but all over the world. Mustard, rust, black and blue are some of the colours that we used,” informs Shravya.
Interestingly, Vineet dropped out from an engineering college to pursue fashion. “My parents weren’t happy that I took up fashion, but are now satisfied with the progress,” he says.
Shreeya Pittie’s theme is about mughal floral motifs. “I had to do a lot of research to come up this collection,” she says.
Pratima Kanodia’s collection is about nathanis. “They are the nose rings that women wear. I used block prints on saris and lehengas. I am excited, but also nervous,” Pratima concludes.Read more at:www.queenieau.com
Behind the scenes of New York Fashion Week
Lights! Camera! Fashion!
New York Fashion Week is just wrapping up with designers laying out the hottest trends.
Elmira native Andy Hilfiger presented ARTISTIX Fashion by Greg Polisseni Monday night at the Metropolitan West in Midtown Manhattan.
18 News got an all access pass to the show.
Each of ARTISTIX collections is inspired by Polisseni's paintings.
Polisseni is an artist from Rochester, New York. Polisseni says his artwork reflects the inner beauty that arises from obstacles, turmoil, and conflict.
"The show is all about art, soul, rock and roll, you're never going to see this painting unless it came from my hands," said Polisseni. "What we do at Artistix is try to make the world a more beautiful, more creative place and fun to wear actual handmade clothes from a handmade painting which is different than you've seen in the market for so long."
"Greg is very talented and we like to have fun," said fashion director Andy Hilfiger. "He's used to doing it in a nontraditional way, I know both, I know corporate and I know not so corporate so it's kind of a blend of that as well."
Elmira native and fashion icon Tommy Hilfiger attended the show to support his younger brother Andy.
Hilfiger tells 18 News the ARTISTIX clothes are "street wear for today's youth."
"I'm very proud of my brother, he's doing a great job, when he's not playing music, he's doing fashion," Hilfiger said.
ARTISTIX showcased its Evolution collection that featured a beach, rock 'n' roll theme and pieces from its Harvest collection.Read more at:beautiful formal dresses | cheap bridesmaid dresses online
Modest Looks Reign At New York Fashion Week
Whether a designer debuting or a veteran of runway shows, one thing is clear: modest dressing is an important trend during this week’s New York Fashion Week. As we prepare for our Jewish New Year with food, fun and fashion, this year’s looks allow one to imagine dressing for Rosh Hashanah in looks directly off the runways.
From Day One of NYFW, it was apparent that long sleeves, maxi lengths and overflowing loose dresses were going to be seen in show after show. What made each runway unique were the textures, patterns, fabrics and the creative ways each design house featured the dress on a runway.
Designer Ionica featured several looks for both day and night with simplest blouses in whites and bold colors. She also featured wide-brimmed hats as the signature accessory. They will perfect for Passover, Shavuot and many summer occasions.
Jessie Zhao seemed to pay homage to the classic Hermes silk scarf patterns. She featured both over the knee and ankle length dresses with prints in soft pastel colors intricate patterns. Many in the audience admired what seems to be comfort and style, as many models walked the runway wearing flat sandals and few accessories.
Many shows featured both men and women in coordinating outfits. Most of what I saw on the men were sport jackets and suits.
Designer Henry Picado debuted new pieces in three collections, Este & Chlo, Henry Picado Haute Couture and Henry Picado Men’s as part of a journey fashion festival. Picado, a name synonymous with fashion brands who previously catered to both the traditional working woman and conservative yet stylish party goer, said, “The desire to look classic, sophisticated and trendy is not just for a limited audience. It was easy to create looks for both men and women because requests from clients internationally are greater than ever before.”
Here are some of the standout trends that were shown in variations from show to show:
White, white and more white.
Either alone or as a background, tones of white were everywhere, including shoes, hats and bags.
Lots of denim.
For both men and women, were seen in show after show.
Sheer fabrics
With many patterns and in almost every color were on display everywhere.
The designers used their talents on how they layered, used ruffles, beads and pieces of silks and leathers to make their blouses, skirts, dresses and pants standout.
Modest dressers should take note that the clothed were the stars. Makeup on faces was muted in natural tones, and hairstyles seemed simplistic, with natural waves and curls. There were few jewels, few handbags, and even almost no big belts and overflowing scarves.
Designers presented shows in restaurants, lounges, museums, hotels and in some of the most creative ways. Tory Burch showed in the gardens surrounding the Cooper Hewitt Museum and Malan Breton opened at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum.
Over 100 designers will showcase their creativity in close to two weeks of shows. Modest dressers have much to choose from as almost every collection featured classic, back to basic, wearable pieces of art. The problem won’t be where to find pieces for their wardrobe, but rather, that there are too many great dresses, skirts and blouses to select from.Read more at:princess formal dresses | school formal dresses
