"The Aisle is Your Runway"

While NY Fashion week has concluded, Milan, Paris and other fashion capitals oversees have just begun. Its almost October and that means one of many things...Winter is upon us and Bridal Fashion Week will be taking place on 10/15 - 10/17! I am really looking forward to seeing the 2012 collections of some of the best designers in the bridal industry. Including the new collections of David Tutera who has teamed up with Mon Cheri. I am also excited about The collection of Bimbaum & Bullock's amongst many other designers, that will be unveiling during the month of October.

Now if your a Bride-to-Be here in Pittsburgh. Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 11-5pm Style and Steel will be presenting "Wed In Style" @ The Marriott in Bakery Square. Phasionlab will be on the scene, as it will be a day filled with everything Phasionable that a Bride could need for her "Big Day" Vendors, Fashion Shows, Give Aways and More! We'll be tweeting LIVE from the event and giving away prizes as well. Be sure to stop by our table, and check out all of the things we have to offer.
There will be something for every bride on any budget. Parking and entry to the event is FREE, get there early because you never know what any of the vendors may have in store.

For more info visit www.styleandsteel.net

Until Next Time,
"Choose Phasion, Not Fads"

Kia

"Afraid of the Dark"

This lovely fall weather has me wanting to paint my nails darker than the norm. Off to the nail salon I went for my bi-weekly manicure. This time around I chose a shade to grace my nail bed, that I probably wouldn't have normally done & I'm glad I did, because I absolutely LOVE IT!!

I've come to adore the OPI Collection, just as much as any other gal & now I look for the deep toned colors that only OPI can create. I still wanted to "shine" a little, but I couldn't decide on a palette, there were so many options to choose from. Neutrals work very well at any time of year, but there were some other colors that weren't so neutral at all & I wanted out of the box LOL!! I chose Ski teal we drop and Simmer & shimmer and I've gotten several compliments on how they both work well together. It was thee perfect combo.

Just wanted to share with you gals, its ok to step outside of your comfort zone. Just be You in whatever you do. What works for me, may not work for you, but the key is that you make an attempt and try!

Hope you guys enjoyed the post!

Until Next time,
"Choose Fashion, Not Fads"

Kia

Open Invitation!!

Its almost 1am and I am listening to that late 90's R&B "Groove Lovin" Music while working in The Lab. Yeah I know it's 2011 & I should embrace the sound of today's hottest artist right?! Not entirely, I really miss music that embraces real life situations regarding LOVE =)
I've been following Tyrese Gibson, you know the Singer, Actor, & Songwriter on Twitter and he will be returning to music, "His 1st & ONLY Love" on 11-1-11 with the Global release of a long awaited album entitled "Open Invitation" released on his OWN Label Voltron Records and I personally can't wait until it hits iTunes.

"My everything was put into this album. It was YOU who inspired me to get back in the studio and do it again."~Tyrese

For one of the two first singles, he teamed up with non other than his other first love from the movie Baby Boy Ms. Taraji P. Henson for "Stay"

Check out the Official Video for Tyrese "Stay" Feat. Taraji P. Henson here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51mR-z80X_o

If the sound of "Stay" is a glimpse of what "Open Invitation" is going to sound like, 11-1-11 can't come quick enough!!
Thanks for listening to US, Your Fans Tyrese and making the decision to Give us an "Open Invitation" to Your Passion and 1st Love Music in the many forms that will be released with this album. Thank You!

Until Next Time,
"Choose Phasion, Not Fads"

Kia

Fashion Fever Review

On Weds 9/21 Style and Steel Presented: Fashion Fever at The Savoy Pgh. It was an evening scheduled to set the tone for Pittsburgh Fashion week 2011. There were designer previews, Jewelry vendors (Ciao Bella & Traci Lynn) and lots of great music. The atmosphere was made for networking and partying, and there was plenty going on.

I loved the fashion individuality that was shown throughout the night.
But Here's a few Lab Pulse Points to keep in mind:

*Not everyone's style is the same and when it's worn with confidence it looks even better.

*It's ok to mix it up...Just know what goes with what and if ever in doubt I'm just a phone call or an email away =)

* Simplicity works best, b/c sometimes Less says So Much More!!

* In doing what you do remember to Always Be YOU!!

If you missed Fashion Fever it's ok, #PghFashionWeek 2011 will take place beginning on 9/26 and will run through 10/2. It's a series of shows you don't want to miss!! Stay Tuned to Phasionlab as we will be out & about as Pittsburgh Fashion Blooms!! For more information about the upcoming week, check out www.Pittsburghfashionweek.com

Until next time,
"Choose Phasion, Not Fads"

Kia

Hey there Guys & Gals!!
Welcome Back to The Lab...Wanted to write up a quick post.

Over the years technology has become something
that we have become acclimated to, almost a need within itself. There's the cell phone, the computer/Internet, smart phones and now tablets. It's the feeling of having the world at your fingertips 24/7!
Over the last week or so I have been able to watch Live Runway Shows during #NYFW(New York Fashion Week), support some causes that are dear to me #RAINN.Org and connect with Celebrities and Dear Friends via twitter. I was also able to "Follow" some of Fashions Elite Industry Insiders on twitter, to find out what Spring 2012 has in store. I was able to do all of that via my iPhone 4, and I LOVED Every minute of it! As the weeks continue there will be Celebrations of Fashion Weeks all across the country. Stay tuned for Phasionlab updates as #PghFashionweek2011 will be kicking off on 9/26-10/02 and continue to check back in with us for Phasionable Events and chic post to come!! Take advantage of the technology that is available to us , but in the process of utilizing it be sure not to abuse it <3

Until Next Time,
Choose Phasion, Not Fads!!


Kia

What a Man, YES He is...

This blog is for the men in the lab who can't help but be debonair in their selection of attire, for the man who knows when to dress it up, play it down and make any style his OWN!

There are six basic garments, and seven if you choose to relax from time to time in your casual attire.  We have compiled a listing that should be in every man's wardrobe.  If you arent aware, it's ok.  Step into the Lab and have a seat because were gonna give you what you need so that you can continue to look even more handsome and stylish from day-to-day.

*Suit-Double breasted, Classic, Modern or Tailored...Make it pop with your accessories (Cufflinks) and It doesn't have to be one color-black or blue

*Sports Coat- Dress it up or down it is a staple that becomes an investment!  Some establishments make them mandatory & being turned away because of your attire, well that just shouldn't happen.

*Trousers-Tailored or brought off the rack, they should be comfortable and functional.  The details in a pair of slacks are endless. 

*Shirts-They come in an array of fabrics, & colors with details that can ultimately set the tone for your appearance.

*Tuxedo-A cut all it's own! Complete with a variety of button and fabric options to choose from.
When selecting a Tux be sure to select a fabric that will maintain it's Shape and one that allows your body to "breathe"
S/n your pant should never look like a regular trouser, cuffs do not belong!

*Neckwear-There are so many choices for neckwear when it comes to this essential. The fabrics, patterns, & color selections are somewhat never-ending, when in doubt, let your neckwear be the focal point and take center stage.
     NeckTie Listing: Bow Tie, Necktie, Cravat, Ascot, Seven-Fold Tie, Scarf, Braces(suspenders) and the Pocket Square

Taking the time to acquire any or all of the essential wardrobe needs will allow you to express your personality through your own personal style.  It's not the wardrobe that makes the man, but in building up his wardrobe, he builds his confidence as well.  Hope you guys enjoyed this post,  I had a really great time doing the research behind it =)

Until Next Time, 

Choose Phasion, Not Fads!

Kia

Season's Change!

As the seasons begin to change, Phasionlab has a few tips for what's ahead during this rainy week.

*First thing's 1st...there is no need for your pants to be "soggy" from dragging in the rain!! Galoshes come in an amazing array of different colors, & patterns.  It is ok to purchase a pair to wear over your pants.  You actually have a choice to take them off while in the office or wear them all day b/c with such a great selection it's ok =)

*Just b/c it is raining doesn't mean you need to pull out your winter attire! Knee boots in 70 degree weather is a no no & flip flops in the rain, your simply asking to be seen at your nearest emergency room dept. for a twisted/broken ankle.

*Trench Coats are fab & chic, if you don't own one, go get one! It will become a staple piece in your closet as it gets a little colder.  It covers your clothes to a degree, can be easily be removed if/when the rain stops & the weather warms up, and depending on the fabric, it can be easy to clean.

These are just a few tips to help build your wardrobe.  Here In The Lab were not going to tell you what you should/shouldn't wear or purchase during these rainy days, but keep in mind that our suggestions are made to HELP YOU in your selection of Phasionable attire, so that you can continue to keep it simple, chic & blunder free =) 


Until Next Time, 

Choose Phasion, not Fads!

Kia

Workshops That Enlighten

I had the opportunity to visit a group of young ladies at The Pittsburgh Job Corp program to facilitate a Fashion Workshop. The Women's Program Coordinator Rosalyn and myself had a wonderful time, we had a "best dressed" contest, and talked about "Falling into Phasion". Discussing the upcoming Fall Trends was exciting and the young ladies left with knowledge knowing how to make each upcoming trend work for their own personal style.

It is always a pleasure to visit Pittsburgh Job Corp and as i've said before, I believe that as women in the workplace, it is imperative that our younger women do not have to think or rely on what they see, but on what they are taught. I wish all of the ladies nothing but a Phasionable, & Successful Future Ahead!

Until next time,

Choose Phasion, not Fads!!

Kia

Fall Shoe Preview

Phasionlab's Fall shoe picks are below hope you dolls enjoy!!

I just received my Fall 2011 VS Shoe Catalog in the mail & I am IN LOVE!!!! 
They tempt me every season to purchase without planning as if I actually have more room for shoes =) 

This season it's all about the bootie, platforms (pumps/boots) & of course the thigh high boot. They used to be so taboo but if worn the right way, thigh high boots can be a great investment to your wardrobe. 
 
I have to give props where they are due & Jessica Simpson is dominating the catalog so far this season, her team did a Great Job on designing her fall collection, I can't wait to see what's in store for all of us VS Shoe Fans, as the season has just begun.