Posts by Tom Castaneda | Panache Vue' Magazine - North Pinellas/Pasco

Hello Dali – Presenting Tampa’s Rising Fashion Star, Dali Hernandez

January 22, 2012 By Tom Castaneda

Dali Hernandez

Dali Hernandez has only been designing professionally for about three years, but she’s fast becoming one of Tampa Bay’s golden girls of fashion. She’s not only making headlines for her chic creations, the 34-year-old designer is even starting to reap rewards for her undeniable talent for making good-looking garments.

“I have been very blessed and have an amazing God-given talent,” recognizes Hernandez, who was recently named as one of Creative Loafing’s 2011 Best of the Bay runners-up in the Best Local Fashion Designer category. “This year, doing what I have been called to do has been the greatest reward.”

There’s no denying Hernandez was born to concoct and create attractive attire. And, it didn’t take the Puerto Rico-born designer long to recognize her life’s mission.

“I loved fashion as a child; I was very eccentric,” recalls Hernandez, who grew up in New York City and Massachusetts. “I used to get made fun of at school because I just came up with my own style. I never followed the trends; I really just did my own thing. And, I didn’t really care what people thought. I just kind of wanted to make a statement.”

Photo: Dan Austin Photography

So how did Hernandez develop such a fierce fascination for fashion in the first place? She apparently inherited it from the talented, stylish and inspirational women in her life. Dali’s mother, who learned how to sew at an early age and would make her daughter’s clothes; and her abuelita in Puerto Rico, who had an incredible fashion sense.

“I would sit at my grandmother’s vanity and play with her vintage jewelry, clutches and her gowns,” remembers Hernandez vividly of spending her summers on The Island of Enchantment. “She would buy and rework the gowns to her liking.”

Despite her passion for fashion, Hernandez didn’t pursue her design dreams right away. Instead she moved to the Bay Area to study business at the University of Tampa and later the International Academy of Design & Technology. She would go on to spend 10 years working as a financial broker until the nation’s economic downturn in 2007 forced her to reevaluate her life.

Photo: Dan Austin Photography

“I went to California and came back very inspired,” states Hernandez, who also experienced a few personal problems during that time that would help forever alter the course of her life. “After a major surgery and some life issues, I decided to focus on my mind, body and soul. And, I decided to do what I was born to do… design.”

Since then, Hernandez has quickly become a highly sought-after designer who’s sexy, edgy and sophisticated creations have been featured in numerous local newspapers, magazines and television programs. She even showed a collection for the first time ever at this year’s Tampa Bay Fashion Week runway show.

Photo: Dan Austin Photography

“It’s been a truly amazing year,” pronounces the self-proclaimed New York City designer with a penchant for leather, faux fur and heavy fabrics. “I’m most proud of how I’ve remained focused on my work. In life there will always be distractions, you’ve just got to keep pressing forward.”

It’s that affirmative attitude, combined with an uncanny knack for crafting chic clothing that compliments even the curviest of women, that will undoubtedly take Hernandez from Tampa Bay’s golden girl to international design star.

Dali’s Spring/Summer
2012 Collection

Hernandez’s latest collection, first showcased at Tampa Bay Fashion Week, was created with the “golden girl” in mind. A departure from her edgier fall collection, this season’s pieces are softer and more romantic, and they feature lace, ruffles, sheer fabrics, organza and sequins. For Dali, it represents “going through the fire…and coming out golden.”

For more on
Hernandez and her
latest collection, visit
www.HouseofDali.com

Photography: Dan Austin Photography • Models: Angee Killian Huntley & Jennifer Smurr • Fashions: Dali Hernandez • Hair & Makeup: Yara, El Shaddai Makeup & Hair Designs • Location: Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th St. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

Tom Castañeda

Tom Castañeda is a creative writer, blogger, and award-winning broadcast journalist who has worked at Architectural Digest, In Touch Weekly, and Latina – a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle magazine for today’s bi-cultural Latina woman. Throughout his career in publishing, Tom has planned and executed numerous celebrity, fashion, and beauty programs throughout the country, including fashion shows, and shopping events for brands like Bloomingdale’s, Chanel, Mikimoto, David Yurman, Givenchy, Armani Fragrances, Macy’s, Southpole Collection, and more. Additionally, Tom has drawn on his strong journalism background to create various print, online, and video reports on various subjects, including fashion and beauty.

Filed Under: 2012, A La Moda, Feature - South Tampa, January 2012, South Tampa Tagged With: Angee Killian Huntley, Dali Hernandez, Dan Austin Photography, Fashion, Fashion Show, Fashion Week, Fashion Week Tampa Bay, Jennifer Smurr, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Fashion Week, Tom Castañeda

On Thin Ice

January 22, 2012 By Tom Castaneda

Figure Skating for Improved Health & Fitness

Tom Casteneda - Photo: Dan Austin Photography

I’m not ashamed to admit I absolutely love figure skating. Now, I’m not obsessed with the sport. I can’t rattle off the names of skaters who’ve landed a quadruple jump or anything like that. But, if there’s a competition on television while channel surfing, I stop and watch…like a hawk!

There’s just something so breathtakingly beautiful and terrifyingly thrilling about the sport, especially knowing how challenging it is to look so perfectly poised while gliding on an extremely thin blade of metal across a super-slick surface.

While attending college, I even enrolled in a figure skating class to fulfill my physical education credit, even though I had never stepped foot on the ice before. My instructor, a one-time Olympic-level coach, even told me I had a natural talent for skating, said I “could’ve been a contender.” I was obviously flattered!

Except for the very rare trip to an ice skating rink, that would be my last experience on skates in years…until now. Tired of running, biking and doing the elliptical to get into better shape; I’ve decided to tackle the ice again by taking a challenging 10-week training session at the Tampa Bay Skating Academy in Oldsmar.

It may not be a traditional way of working out, but you can burn some serious calories. For every hour of continuous skating, a 150-pound person burns about 600 calories, according to the American College of Sports Medicine—that’s about the same amount as running five miles in an hour. And, orthopedic surgeons say ice skating has less impact on joints than activities like running. But that’s not all, it even helps build muscle tone, increase endurance and improve balance.

During my first icecapade—a pre-class session with TBSA coach Alex Vlassov to help me get reacquainted with the art of skating—I quickly learned that I haven’t completely lost my abilities. I was actually able to get my footing pretty quickly; and I was still able to do a couple of the tricks I learned in my college class.

Photo: Dan Austin Photography

I did learn that I’ve got a long way to go to be even half as skilled as William and JoJo Hubbart, the 12 and 13-year-old sister-brother figure skating pairs team from Palm Harbor. During my time on the ice with the dynamic duo—who recently placed third at a national skating competition, even though they’ve only been skating as a team for about a year—I couldn’t help but marvel at their remarkable skills while feeling a little self-conscious about my own proficiency on the ice, despite their encouraging looks and considerate counsel.

Nervousness and insecurity aside, along with a fear of falling in front of a rink full of onlookers, I must admit it felt energizing to be back on the ice. And, I had an absolute blast. So, even though I know I’ll never be an Olympic gold medalist like Scott Hamilton or Brian Boitano, I’m excited about challenging myself to refine my skills, maybe even learn how to do a single Salchow while getting an invigorating, non-traditional winter workout.

To follow Tom’s progress on the ice, visit www.PanacheVue.com. For more information on adult and children’s classes at the Tampa Bay Skating Academy, visit www.TBSA.com.

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2012, Health, January/February 2012, North Pinellas / Pasco Tagged With: Clearwater, Exercise, Fitness, Health, Ice Skating, Oldsmar, Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Skating Academy, Tom Castañeda

To the Max – Meet Iconic Artist Peter Max

December 14, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Peter Max

Peter Max may be 74-years-old, but the internationally renowned artist isn’t showing any signs of slowing down his brightly hued career, which spans a remarkable six decades.

“It comes from being very prolific and having a tremendous desire to work,” declares Max, who was born in Berlin in 1937 and lived all over the world with his parents before settling in New York in 1953. “I have this tremendous will to paint. And, it intensifi es as I come up the elevator to my studio. My heart starts pounding knowing I’m going to be at the canvas.”

There’s no denying Max’s pop culture influence. After all, his expressive works of art have become an integral part of the fabric of modern American culture with their stunning imagery and vibrant colors.

“It’s just something I love,” professes the internationally acclaimed master of pop art known for his Cosmic ‘60s style of painting. “I have a knack for putting different color combinations together in a million different ways. That’s why I have been able to create so many different beautiful posters.”

Along with painting Lady Liberty each year since the country’s bicentennial, Max has received numerous important commissions, including the creation of the nation’s first “Preserve the Environment” postage stamp and 235 border murals at entry points to Canada and Mexico. His work has even appeared on a Continental Airlines Boeing 777.

“It’s mind-boggling,” admits Max, who has served as the official artist of the 2006 U.S. Winter Olympic Team, the Super Bowl, the World Cup, the Grammy Awards, the U.S. Open, the Indy 500, the NYC Marathon and the Kentucky Derby. “I never dreamt my life would be like this. I love it all—every second of it.”

It’s hard to believe Max didn’t initially plan on becoming an art superstar. He actually wanted to study the stars. After meeting an astronomer during his early childhood summers in Tibet, Max became fascinated with all things celestial.

“We’d sit in the garden and look at these astronomy books and he’d say, ‘Have you ever seen all these stars and planets?’” recalls Max. “I just became so unbelievably interested in the universe. It just fascinated my complete being—my soul, my heart. And for all my life, I desperately wanted to become an astronomer.”

But the stars would align differently for Max, who had even taken several math and science courses to prepare for a career in science. After graduating from Brooklyn’s Lafayette High School, he was persuaded to take summer classes at Manhattan’s Art Students League of New York, where Norman Rockwell had studied.

“I got the bug and I begged my mother if I could stay in art school for the rest of the year,” remembers Max, who had taken already proven to be a budding artist after studying drawing and painting while living in places like China and Israel. “She convinced my father to let me continue studying art, despite his fears that I’d be a starving artist.”

Peter Max - Panache Vue Magazine - Paintings

Max wouldn’t go hungry. He’s open a small arts studio in Manhattan after seven years studying fi gure drawing and composition under noted painter, illustrator and muralist Frank J. Reilly; and he’d combined his love of astronomy and passion for art to create his famed Cosmic ‘60s style and launch a highly successful poster business.

“I had a printer who loved my work and allowed me to print a couple of posters and I gave him a couple of paintings ‘cause I had no money to pay him,” says Max, who has created more than 1,000 posters over the last 40 years. “He helped me sell the posters, which became hugely popular all over the world and led to a lucrative licensing career.”

Max’s art was licensed by 72 corporations and made him a household name. His rising star status led to an eight-page cover story in Life magazine, as well as appearances on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and the Ed Sullivan Show. Since then he’s seen his work featured at more than 100 international museums and galleries and created works of art for six U. S. presidents, including Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George Bush and Bill Clinton.

“In the beginning, I just couldn’t believe all the attention. It’s still pretty unbelievable,” exclaims Max. “With some of them, I’m on a phone-call basis. I’m really blessed to know such amazing people.”

Max is currently preparing for two high profi le museum shows and the completion of a highly anticipated book.

“It has about 45 stories in it, all short stories about my life—from living in China to standing in front of an empty canvas,” explains Max. “All beautiful stories.” So where does the iconic artist see himself next?

“Hopefully just where I am now; it’s a great place,” recognizes Max. “I love where I am, I love what I’m doing and every day is different. It’s a wonderful rollercoaster!”

One that doesn’t seem to show signs of decelerating as long as he’s standing in front of a canvas with paintbrush in hand.

A Display of Peter Max’s Works in Tampa Bay A collection of Peter Max’s paintings—including portraits and album covers he designed for country superstar Taylor Swift—will be exhibited and available for acquisition at Safety Harbor’s Syd Entel Galleries. The special retrospective will begin with previews on Saturday, January 14, 2012 and conclude with special appearances by Max on Saturday, January 21 and Sunday, January 22, 2012.

For more information, visit www.SydEntelGalleries.com or call
(727) 725-1808 RSVPs are kindly requested.

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, Celebrity, Culture & Arts, December 2011, Events, Feature - South Tampa, South Tampa Tagged With: Art, Artist, Celebrity, Event, Features, Gallery, Peter Max, Safety Harbor, Syd Entel Galleries, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda

Winter Blues – Lighten Up in This Season’s Haute Hue: Cobalt

December 13, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Paris Fashion Week - Elie Saab - Haute Couture

There’s no denying the power of winter on our psyches. The shorter days and cooler nights can lead to a lack of motivation, lower energy levels and even a mild case of depression. But there’s one surefi re way to fight the winter doldrums… Infuse your wardrobe of the season’s usual suspects in browns, blacks and grays with the of the moment color: cobalt blue. After all, it’s a shade that not only adds just the right amount of light to those dark-too-soon days, but looks fi erce on any skin tone.

This season, designers like Zac Posen, Jil Sander and Nicole Miller aren’t afraid to show they’re crazy for cobalt! During this year’s fall/winter runway shows, they featured the oh-so-complimentary color on everything from sweaters and jackets to pants and dresses.

It’s really the go-to color for day or night. A cobalt blue dress is seriously stylish for a night out on the town; a pair of pants in that shade paired with a casual top give you a fun, yet simple day look.

So if you’re ready to lift your spirits during the dark days of winter, here are some ways to brighten up your style with this season’s vibrant hue:

POP GOES THE WORLD
There’s no reason to take the cobalt craze to the extreme. Simply adding a single piece in the icy-hot shade—like a sweater or pants—will not only provide a nice contrast to a basic black outfi t, but will give it just enough pop to help you stand out in the crowd.

BLOCK PARTY
It’s easy to combine this season’s haute hue with this year’s bold color-blocking trend, which requires incorporating multiple hues in an outfi t or a single garment. So whether you’re layering different shades of blue or a combination of jewel tones into your overall look, there’s no doubt you’ll add some visual punch to your appearance and be the belle of the (color) block. Just remember to limit yourself to a maximum of three shades to avoid looking like Rainbow Brite.

GRAPHIC DESIGN
From striking tribal designs to charming fl oral patterns, graphic prints are all the rage this season, especially when soused with a splash of cobalt blue. One look at Alberta Ferretti’s black, white and blue abstract print beadeddress proves it’s worth going bold!

2. Milan Fashion Week – Alberta Ferretti, 3. Milan Fashion Week – Jil Sander, 3. Paris Fashion Week – Gareth Pugh

So whether you dress in head-to-toe cobalt or incorporate splashes of the energetic shade into your wardrobe through color-blocking, picture-perfect print pieces or brilliant accessories, banishing the winter blues has never been easier. And, you’ll look stunning doing it!

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, A La Moda, December 2011, South Tampa Tagged With: Designer, Fashion, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda

Haute Spots

November 15, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Embrace This Season’s Dotted Style Trend

There’s absolutely no doubt you’ll be seeing spots everywhere this fall. Polka dots, specifically! The posh and pleasant print is back in style this season! And it’s hauter than ever!

High-profile designers like Diane von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney have embraced the freckled fad. This fall, they’ve dotted their chic collections with polka dots — big and small—in every color of the rainbow.

Meanwhile, celebrities like Christina Aguilera, Olivia Palermo and Katy Perry have been taking the trend from the catwalk to the sidewalk. Spotted in this season’s striking specks on and off the red carpet, they’ve inspired fashionistas around the world to do the same.

Even the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, seems to have a special fondness for the precious print. In the last year, she’s been photographed in polka-dotted clothing and accessories—from popular brands like Topshop and Cath Kidston—on numerous occasions.

Looking more sophisticated than ever, the of-the-moment print can be found on everything from cocktail dresses and skirts to hosiery and accessories.

So if you’re hoping to be spot-on trend this season, here’s some advice on picking the perfect polka-dotted pieces for you:

START SMALL
If you’re not totally convinced that the dots are for you, don’t worry. There’s no need to dress from head to toe in the graphic print to be on trend. Simply pick an accessory — like a handbag, shoes or scarf—to start with. Then work up the courage to go bigger and bolder later!

THE POWER OF ONE
The easiest way to wear the haute spots is to keep the rest of your outfit simple. To allow the print to really stand out, pick one flecked item to serve as your stylish centerpiece — like pairing a polka-dotted blouse with your favorite jeans or wearing a polka dot dress with solid shoes and accessories. By embracing the power of one, you’ll get maximum attention for your polka pieces.

SIZE MATTERS!
Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or embrace the trend with a little less attention, there’s a dot that’s right for you. Larger spots are a great way to add some eye-catching prints into your fall wardrobe, while smaller-sized specks can look more refined. Just remember tiny specks are typically best for petite women, medium spots work for most sizes and a bold dramatic dot can work for larger women.

In the end, it doesn’t matter how you choose to wear polka dots, as long as you’re not afraid to have fun and be a little daring. After all, the timeless print will have you looking mod and marvelous all at once!

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, A La Moda, North Pinellas / Pasco, November/December 2011 Tagged With: Designer, Fashion, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda

Fierce Flair for Fashion

November 15, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Celebrating Tampa Bay Fashion Week

There’s no need to travel to Miami or New York City to discover exceptionally haute fashions. This year’s Tampa Bay Fashion Week proved there’s a plethora of dazzling designers right here in Central Florida. And, they’re putting the area’s sensational style on the map!

During this year’s week of high style happenings in September, Tampa Bay fashionistas had the opportunity to celebrate the region’s unique design spirit at a series of events, including a phenomenal exhibition of vintage designs and a swanky soiree that helped shine a spotlight on the region’s best local fashion designers, artists and restaurants.

The week culminated with a night of high-energy runway shows featuring the chic Spring/Summer 2012 collections from nine of Tampa Bay’s brightest design stars, including Terri Funaro, Kimberly Hendrix and Audrey “Pat” McGhee.

“It was a great experience,” professes Dali Hernandez, a rising star who participated in her first Tampa Bay Fashion Week. “There was a lot of media exposure, as well as incredible photo shoots and fashion challenges. It was wonderful!”

Held at Palm Harbor’s Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort, the two-hour fete featured everything from stunning swimsuits to glamtastic gowns. Standouts included Hernandez’s show-stopping “Golden Girl” collection and Funaro’s oh-so-creamy cluster of elegantly refined clothing.

“Whether you’re going to the beach, a club or a catered affair, Tampa Bay has plenty of talented designers with fresh ideas and their own distinct style,” asserts Funaro, who admits she’s already started thinking about next year’s Fashion Week. “It’s good to come together, swap stories and share experiences while promoting what this area has to offer.”

By the looks of the nine dazzling and diverse collections displayed at this year’s runway event, there’s no denying that Tampa Bay is truly a fashion force with plenty of talent and style to meet your every style need.

For the complete list of designers and more information on this year’s events, visit www.FashionWeekTampaBay.com. Photos courtesy of Anne Phillips Photography.

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, Events, November 2011, South Tampa, Uncategorized Tagged With: Events, Fashion, Fashion Show, Fashion Week, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda

Lady Sings the Blues – Meet Tampa Bay’s Most Popular Jazz Singer

October 14, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Lisa Casalino - Panache Cover It should come as no surprise that Lisa Casalino has become one of the most highly sought-after performers in Tampa Bay. After all, she’s been serenading audiences throughout Central Florida with her soulful, sultry voice for nearly 15 years.

“I’m so grateful to be able to do what I love for a living; it really doesn’t feel like work at all,” admits Casalino, who received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Crane School of Music at the State University of New York at Potsdam—the same college attended by legendary opera singer Renée Fleming. “I’m doing what I love to do, what comes naturally.”

This may come as a shock, but the Long Island, New York native didn’t start singing the blues professionally right away. After graduating college and teaching in her home state for a year, Casalino moved to Florida in 1995 to launch the music program at Durant High School in Plant City.

“I thought it would be a great experience as a young teacher to open up a new school and start a music program from scratch,” recalls Casalino. “I had the best music teachers in high school. They made me love music and I wanted to give that same appreciation to others.”

During her eight-year stint at Durant High School, Casalino landed her first steady gig with the house band at Stump’s Supper Club in Channelside. In 2005, she moved into real estate to open up her schedule for more singing engagements. In less than a year, Casalino decided to focus on a full-time music career.

“Fortunately I have a lot of great friends in the Tampa Bay area who own restaurants, as well as organize events and fundraisers,” professes Casalino. “When I was ready to start singing on my own, I asked them if they’d give me a chance…and they did!”

Lisa Casalino - Tampa Bay's Most Popular Jazz Singer

Since then, Casalino’s career has hit all the right notes. Along with steady gigs at local hot spots like Timpano Italian Chophouse, Love’s Artifacts Bar and Grille and Belleair Country Club, Casalino performs at various private events, weddings and sporting events, including singing the national anthem at Tampa Bay Rays, Tampa Bay Lightning and Tampa Bay Buccaneers games. No matter the affair, Casalino strives to capture the audience’s attention.

“It’s up to me to take everyone with me on a musical journey,” proclaims the talented singer/songwriter who finds inspiration in artists who keep it real like Barbra Streisand, Julie Andrews, Karen Carpenter, Kristin Chenowith and Sarah Vaughan. “If I’m in the moment and singing my heart out, whether it be a happy or sad song, then I know they’ll be right there with me note for note.”

It’s that dedication to delivering an unforgettable performance that has made Casalino such an admired jazz singer in Tampa Bay. And now she’s setting her sights on a national audience. This summer, Casalino released her debut album, “Introducing Lisa Casalino,” recorded at New York City’s legendary Nola Studios, where Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Lena Horne and James Brown recorded.

“It’s a long-time dream come true,” says Casalino of her first complete album, which includes three original tracks that she co-wrote with jazz musician Nate Najar, as well as nine jazz/standards covers. “People can expect to hear emotional and pure songs that come from an honest place, authentic sounds that capture the essence of what jazz and standards should sound like.”

Listening to Casalino croon classics like “Easy Street,” “’S Wonderful” and “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” there’s no denying she belongs in front of a microphone. And with that distinguished voice and determined spirit, the sky’s the limit for this rising star who can’t wait to see where destiny takes her.

Casalino’s album is available on iTunes and through her website, www.LisaCasalino.com, where you can find a schedule of her upcoming performances.

Photography Lisa Sibley Photography
Model Lisa Casalino
Dresses and Accessories Provided by La France, located at 1612 E. 7th Ave., Ybor City, Florida
Location The Don Vicente de Ybor Historic Inn, located at 1915 Republica De Cuba, Ybor City, Florida

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, Celebrity, Culture & Arts, Feature - South Tampa, October 2011, South Tampa Tagged With: Blues, Celebrity, Features, Jazz, Jazz Singer, La France, Lisa Casalino, Lisa Sibley Photography, Music, Musician, Performer, Singer, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda, Ybor City

Timeless Threads – Celebrating A Long History of fine Fashion

October 14, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Timeless Threads Revolutionary French designer Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion changes, but style endures.” It’s easy to see the truth in that statement by examining the chic and sophisticated designs on display at the Past Perfect: A Celebration of Vintage Design retrospective at The Art Institute of Tampa, which kicked-off this year’s Tampa Bay Fashion Week.

“The garments we wear today are all derived from a rich history of designs that have been adapted to fit our modern day sensibilities and lifestyles,” proclaims Andrew Ashton, the owner of La Posh Salon who assembled this one-of-a-kind fashion display with his business colleague Steven Anderson. “For example, what was the chemise of the 1920s has been transformed into today’s little black dress.”

From a black silk, Kimono-style robe with a hand-embroidered flower motif, circa 1919, to a Halston sequined gown with a unique cloud design, circa 1978, the Past Perfect exhibit brings together nearly 140 years of everlasting fashions.

“It’s important to look back on designs from the past to help the next generation reinvent the future of fashion,” professes Ashton, who assembled the exhibit by borrowing historic pieces from fashionistas like intimates designer Rhonda Shear and Jill Wax, the owner of La France vintage clothing store. “It’s amazing how many people have garments from past decades!”

Timeless Threads - Three Images

Due to space limitations, Ashton and Anderson had to keep the exhibit down to less than 25 looks, which they admit wasn’t an easy task.

“We could only feature one or two articles from each decade,” admits Ashton. “With so many pieces to choose from, we really had to look at the condition of the clothing, and pick the finest examples of each decade.” The end result: a remarkable presentation of enduring styles that not only reflect our nation’s history, but helps set the standard of excellence for future designers.

The Past Perfect exhibit will be on display at The Art Institute of Tampa through Friday, October 21.

A portion of the proceeds from the Past Perfect Opening Night Party will benefit the 11/Eleven Dream Fund Scholarship, which supports students of the Art Institute of Tampa’s Fashion & Retail Management and Culinary programs.

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, A La Moda, October 2011, South Tampa Tagged With: Art Institute of Tampa, Designer, Fashion, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tom Castañeda, Vintage

Design, Rhythm & Xol – Meet Eduardo Xol, A Real-Life Renaissance Man

September 18, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

Eduardo Xol

For more than five years, Eduardo Xol has been living life to the extreme. He’s served as a designer and landscape artist on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” ABC’s popular reality series centered on helping rebuild the homes of families dealing with serious hardships. It’s an experience that has forever changed his life.

Ediardo Xol - Design “My philosophy of designing for all the senses was born out of my experiences during the show’s first year,” declares the 45-year-old Xol, who vividly remembers designing an outdoor space that initial season for the family of a man who lost his ability to see after being shot in the head during an armed robbery. “Normally, one wouldn’t think of landscape design for someone who is blind. But by using different sounds from water features and wind chimes, as well as plants with distinct smells and flooring with textures, I was able to tap into his other senses to ensure he’d know exactly where he was outside—without having to see.”

Even though Xol won’t be returning this season to the television show that made him a star, he plans to maximize his celebrity status to make a positive difference in the world. He’s already designing a park and garden area at his former middle school, Macy Intermediate, in East Los Angeles.

“The plan is to create a new green area to facilitate and outdoor/lifestyle learning space for the students,” announces Xol, who credits his grandmother and father for fueling his passion for landscape design. “It’s going to be amazing!”

The first generation Mexican-American, who grew up in a predominantly Asian and Latino community, says his overall design aesthetic is rooted deeply in his rich multicultural upbringing.

“I combine the clean lines and composition of my Asian influence, while incorporating strong ethnic themes and elements influenced by my family.” asserts Xol, who has created awe-inspiring outdoor spaces for high-profile clients like Selma Blair. “When designing for others, I always design for the senses!”

But Xol isn’t just a designer and lifestyle expert; he’s a modern day Renaissance man. Before launching his design empire, Xol was a critically acclaimed musician.

“Before I could speak, I was ready to play piano,” utters Xol, an accomplished percussionist and keyboardist selected to perform with the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the age of 10. “Music is a universal language I was blessed to have been born understanding.”

It’s that enormous musical talent that led to a recording contract with BMG and Xol’s career-advancing move to Mexico City, where he’d release his award-nominated, Spanish-language debut album and later co-star in three telenovelas. The end result: Xol was selected as one of People en Español’s 50 Most Beautiful People and named as one of the 100 Most Influential Hispanics in the U.S. by Hispanic magazine.

“I feel extremely humbled by the accolades,” asserts Xol. “They remind me to keep doing my best as I realize I am representing my Hispanic community and serving as a role model for the next generation.”

Eduardo Xol - Equilibrio Along with releasing a collection of musical compositions entitled, “equilibrio,” Xol’s developing a musical reality show with one of his own childhood idols, iconic Spanish-American actress, singer and flamenco guitarist, Charo.

“Growing up Hispanic in this country, I could see my reflection in few entertainers… Charo was one of them,” recounts Xol. “It’s amazing to get to know her as she talks about her own experiences in the business. ‘Cuchi-Cuchi’ is a seasoned entrepreneur.”

Like Charo, Xol has experienced remarkable success in several fields, which he credits to his commitment to living life as an artist.

“Just as in music, I’ve recomposed the soundtrack to my life,” states the fiercely determined Xol. “In the process, I have recreated my career path. But no matter what I’m doing, the impulse is always coming from the same creative place. I’ve been blesses with so many experiences most people dream about!”

So whether Xol’s designing an outdoor space, composing a piece of music or giving back to the community, rest assured this Renaissance man is living life to the extreme as a multimedia force in the growing multicultural market.

For more about Eduardo Xol, visit www.EduardoXol.com.

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, Celebrity, Feature - South Tampa, September 2011, South Tampa Tagged With: Art, Artist, Celebrity, Designer, Eduardo Xol, Features, Latino, Music, Musician, Tom Castañeda

Sweeping Style

September 18, 2011 By Tom Castaneda

The Ground’s the Limit in This Fall’s Haute Maxi Dresses & Skirts!

Paris Fashion Week - Christian Dior - Haute Couture

September marks the beginning of autumn, which means it should start to cool down soon. Even though temperatures don’t drop much in Florida in the fall, you can still update your wardrobe by going with the (style) flow in this season’s hottest trend: maxi dresses and skirts.

Designers like Haider Ackermann, Derek Lam and Jason Wu aren’t just embracing the maxi trend this fall; they’re actually going to great lengths to bring on the drama with ankle-grazing dresses and skirts that demand serious attention.

From oh-so-precise pleats to prominent patterns—all available in breathable fabrics perfect for the Sunshine State’s warmer climate—this season’s ultra-long dresses and skirts will help you look effortlessly chic.

So if you’re ready to achieve maximum impact with minimal effort, here are some ways to let it flow, let it flow, let it flow:

Prints Charming
If you’re ready to make a bold statement in this season’s floor-sweeping styles, why not go long in print-heavy pieces like mosaic patterns inspired by stained glass, geometrics and tribal-inspired fabrics. During this fall’s runway shows, designers like Diane von Furstenberg and Peter Som helped shine a spotlight on the many powerful prints—everything from daring animal prints to dainty paisley—that will have you standing out in the crowd in high style.

Pleat the Fifth
While pleats aren’t really a novel concept, they’re getting a thoroughly modern makeover. This season, you’ll notice a plethora of pleats on floor-length creations by designers like Richard Chai and Vera Wang. Specifically, they’re incorporating knife pleats (single pleats all going in the same direction) and sunburst pleats (knife pleats that start small at the top and get wider towards the bottom to create a flared-out effect) in their designs. The end result: garments that emanate elegance and femininity without losing their casual cool.

Slash of the Titans
For a little added sex appeal take a cue from celebrities like Rachel Bilson, Emma Stone and Olivia Palermo. They’re spicing up their to-the-floor frocks with a slash of style. So if you’re fascinated by this season’s lengthier looks but don’t want to feel cloistered, consider a leg-baring maxi. The thigh-high slit won’t just keep the dress or skirt from making you feel completely confined; it will add just the right amount of danger and excitement to your already fashion forward look.

Sheer Genius
Sometimes revealing but always alluring, that’s one way to describe this fall’s see-through maxi dresses and skirts. After all, they can be pretty risqué. But you don’t have to be a runway model or have incontestable courage to pull off this eye-catching look with unaffected flair. There are plenty of sheer versions that will have you looking and feeling like a Greek goddess without revealing too much—including maxi skirts and dresses with semi-sheer fabrics, heavy pleats and inbuilt slips. And you can always pair your semi-transparent garment with an oversized sweater or cropped jacket. Just remember: it’s not about wearing something translucent, but how you wear it.

So whether you opt for a bold print or sheer sheath, there’s absolutely no doubt you’ll look simply mod-tastic in this season’s haute maxi dresses and skirts. So go ahead and give ‘em a swirl!

Tom Castañeda

Filed Under: 2011, A La Moda, North Pinellas / Pasco, September/October 2011 Tagged With: Designer, Fashion, Features, South Tampa, Tampa, Tom Castañeda