GRAMMY Style Studio Blog

Style Studio Designer Profile: TW Steel

By Wendy Bendoni

Time is the wisest counselor of all. ~Pericles

In the day of smart phones, the watch is quickly becoming an overlooked accessory to many. But the stunning designs of TW Steel could inspire many to become a devout watch fanatic. BOLD is the best way to describe this Dutch designer. These oversized watches are much more than merely an accessory but they represent a lifestyle.

TW Steel, the name meaning 'The Watch in Steel', has rapidly established itself as a big, bold, lifestyle brand. TW Steel is ‘Official Timing Partner’ to Lotus Renault GP competing in the FIA Formula One World Championship. With ambassadors such as Dario Franchitti and David Coulthard, this stunning brand places an importance on time AND STYLE.

TW Steel Grandeur

Jordy and Ton Cobelens, the founders of TW Steel and CEO and Chief Design Officer respectively, have created a line that’s not only striking, trendy, but also have an affordable price point.

Grandeur Diver

With 124 different models in the collection, TW Steel has attained a global appeal while creating an
internationally recognized and respected brand name.

CEO Canteen

TW Steel’s timelessness and functional attributes almost make checking your time on your iphone seem
trite. The best accessories are those that stand the test of time and TW Steel’s watches truly fit the bill.

 

 

 

 

Style Studio Designer Profile: Marmol Radziner

By Cirrus Alpert

Marmol Radziner is an architectural and design firm established in Los Angeles by Leo Marmol and Ron Radziner in 1989.  The firm’s place as a leader in design is long established and was most-notably recognized when the firm restored the renowned Kaufmann House in Palm Springs.  Since then Marmol Radziner has consistently been celebrated for its achievements in design, such as being named the 2004 American Institute of Architects California Council’s Firm of the Year and being honored as 2009 inductees of the Interior Design 25th Anniversary Hall of Fame.  Tom Ford, also well-know for his contributions to design, is a firm client.

Always appreciative of a design opportunity that allows a connection to the natural world and the support of sustainable options, Marmol Radziner’s concept of a jewelry line that acts as a natural extension of the firm’s design philosophies was a welcome and organic addition to its already full arsenal of well-designed products.  The idea for the collection came about while principal Ron Radziner was searching for jewelry that suited his aesthetics.  When he couldn’t find what he was looking for, like many designers, he decided that the firm should create its own line to address the need.  

The resulting pieces are made from commercial-grade bronze and designed to display depth and texture while being balanced proportionately for men and women.  Each piece develops a unique patina over time based on the individual experiences of the wearer The aesthetic appearance of the patina creates a softer look through subtle color changes as the character of the piece develops. Therefore, wearing the piece is a necessary part of the completion of the design and the wearer of the piece is an indispensable part of the design.

Just as appealing is the process by which the pieces are created.  In the same local workshop where the firm’s architectural models and full-scale building details are crafted, the leftover remnants of bronze from that process are used for the creation of the jewelry line. Metal shop craftsmen individually fabricate and finish each piece to the resulting elegant and balanced forms of rings, bracelets, and cuffs.  The pieces have caught the eye of the public and the press and are currently for sale at Arp in Los Angeles and MAC in San Francisco.

Style Studio Designer Profile: Marchon

By Eileen Lee

Known best for their revolutionary line of 3D eyewear, Marchon is a leading American eyewear manufacturer and distributer, developing fashion forward and innovative designs for some of the most prominent fashion brands in the world.

In 2010 they announced the launch of Marchon 3D, partnering up with Calvin Klein to create a cutting-edge line of ck3D sunglasses, which were the first of it’s kind on the market. The ck3D line can be worn as real sunglasses and are RealD certified so that they can be worn indoors for use with any 3D viewing experience.

Men and Women’s ck3D styles start at $180

Marchon’s mix of contemporary styling with innovative technologies, has revolutionized the world of eyewear, creating styles made of Flexon, the state-of-the-art bendable metal. Their fashionable shades have been seen on numerous celebrities including Justin Beiber, Ke$ha, Adam Lambert, Lady Gaga and Anna Kendrick.

Justin Bieber in Jill Sander JS105S

Anna Kendrick in Diana Von Furstenberg DVF518S

Ke$ha in Diana Von Furstenberg DVF101S

Lady Gaga in Karl Lagerfeld KL122S

Marchon and its drool-worthy, world-class portfolio of fashion, sport and lifestyle brands include Emilio Pucci, FENDI, Coach, Karl Lagerfeld, Michael Kors, bebe, LACOSTE and Nike Vision. Their collections have been featured in magazines such as Vogue, Women’s Wear Daily, ELLE, Marie Claire, W Magazine and Nylon.

To see more of Marchon Eyewear visit www.marchon.com or see them this week at the GRAMMY Style Studio.

Style Studio Designer Profile: Charlie Lapson

By Erica Leigh Macaranas

"Fashion is an avenue of creativity, individuality and self-expression.” –Charlie Lapson

The epitome of American urban glamour, Charlie Lapson has become a celebrity favorite, citing Brooke Shields, Hayden Pannetiere, Brad Pitt, Kristen Davis, Will Smith and Jennifer Aniston as fans. Known for his contemporary and edgy aesthetic, Charlie Lapson’s approach to design is anything but typical.

Charlie Lapson with Cristina Ricci | Eva Longoria | Charlie Lapson with Hayden Pannetiere

A native New Yorker, Charlie Lapson’s interest in fashion and design led him to seek an education in his home state. It was while studying at New York’s School of Visual Arts and Fashion Institute for Technology that he was able to utilize his creativity and hone his skills. After dabbling in fashion design and couture, and leading design teams for junior and young men’s collections, Charlie Lapson set out to develop his personal label, featuring handbags, jewelry, and watches.  

Though Charlie Lapson’s collection has expanded to include cosmetics and men’s accessories, he is most known for his unique handbags. With a talent for creating interesting shapes and silhouettes, and combining them with luxury and functionality, it is no wonder why he has gained such a devout following among A-listers and Hollywood elite. Christina Ricci, Eva Longoria, Jessica Alba, and L’il Kim have all been spotted toting around his distinctive satchels and shoulder bags. Made from fine Italian leather, each handbag features hand-painted details, metallic finishes, and unexpected combinations of texture and color.

For those that love sparkly baubles and dramatic jewels, Charlie Lapson’s jewelry collection is both luxurious and classic. Reminiscent of vintage estate jewelry, signature pieces include giant cocktail rings and chandelier earrings with precious stones and pave settings. His jewelry has been featured on the American Idol series and red carpet for the Academy Awards, and of course, the Grammys.

Charlie Lapson’s innovative designs and friendly demeanor has earned him a well-deserved reputation as a great designer, making him one of the most sought-after consultants in the entertainment industry. Photo Credits: Charlie Lapson

Style Studio Designer Profile: Spectacles for Humans

By Melanie Lee

With the eyes being the windows to the soul, the eyewear is the one doing the window-dressing. If done in a way that bridges craft and stimulation, it is at that time that the eye is not only seen, but is also heard. Spectacles for Humans is like a gallery where dots of eyes become the masterpiece framed in what looks like art in itself. With its first shop in San Francisco and a showroom in Los Angeles, Spectacles for Humans has been at the forefront of the eyewear industry since 2006 placing its unique selection of top independent brands on eyewear enthusiasts.


Spectacles for Humans understands that eyewear is transferrable art. It moves with its owner, needing to be of the utmost quality to endure the daily weathering. It is because of this acknowledgement that Spectacles for Humans delivers only quality products that brave it out and make the brave ones look bolder while doing so.


In keeping with his notion that "design should be modern, clean, and functional, without useless gadgets nor silly contraptions", Spectacles for Humans owner, Dimitri Grunhauser, says, "I bring in lines that floor with me with their finesse, simplicity, quality and attention to details".

And now with his 20 years of experience as an optician, Grunhauser will be bringing the Spectacles for Humans faithful their very own SFH-branded eyewear. He says, "Our own frames will combine the old and the new. My designs will be handmade in Italy, from highest quality acetate by real craftsmen. They will have a touch of nostalgia, yet they will not look dated."

In creating the first United States-based blog to be dedicated to eyewear, there is nothing dated about Spectacles for Humans. The blog, kept up to date with collection previews and street style captures of hip individuals wearing SFH-carried lines, is elevated by the passion words. With the widely read blog and subsequent exposure, Spectacles for Humans had made the West Coast expansion and plans to answer the East Coast's demand with a future location in New York.

Professionally and passionately, Spectacles for Humans continues to push beyond the circled frame. Personally, Grunhauser is a man with a lot of seen success- and who can be seen and heard even more with the Germany release of his first EP and a future European tour. Vibe with him here and view more on the Spectacles for Humans blog.

Spectacles for Humans will be at the GRAMMY Style Studio, all this week!

Style Studio Designer Profile: M Cohen

By: Shannah Katz

The talented, Israeli born jewelry designer behind the M. Cohen brand is Maor Cohen, whose creative roots go as far back to his first job in a local jewelry store in Israel. His success producing handmade jewelry landed him a vital role in the Israeli fashion industry designing bridal accessories for celebrities and socialites all over his home country.

Some of his inspiration in his designs comes from his travels around the world through his visits to Europe and Central America. His combinations of leather and silver offer a rough yet delicate and trendy upscale appearance, and are great for layering. Influential American celebrities like Lauren Conrad, Kelly Clarkson, Johnny Depp, and Jon Bon Jovi are dedicated fans of M. Cohen.

M. Cohen’s signature wrap bracelets should be a staple addition to every woman’s jewelry box. The color story is naturally charming and the gold truly enhances a person of all skin tones.

The peace sign bracelet is easy to wrap, fashionable, and offers a seventies vibe:

My favorite piece from M. Cohen is by far the Star of David necklace. This item is a perfect display of ethnic heritage for someone of the Judaic background, like me, Rachel Zoe, Natalie Portman, or Shia LeBeouf. I currently wear a Star of David ring daily on my right hand, and it would be great to buy this essential piece of jewelry to show off my Jewish roots.

His men’s jewelry line portrays a sense of unity from around the world with these Roman encrypted silver charms in this bracelet. The masculinity and design aesthetic runs sharp yet enchanting and reflects ancient history with a modern day approach. Maor will continue to excite us with his newest collections of rings and unisex jewelry.


Come see M. Cohen’s one of a kind jewelry collection up close and personal at the Grammy Style Studio 2011.

You can also visit www.mcohendesigns.com, Fred Segal, Planet Blue, Nordstrom Fashion Island, and many more stores near you.

Style Studio Designer Profile: Kanvis

By Bree Cooley

Call me crazy, but I have an attitude when it comes to fashion.  There's bad fashion and there's good fashion, but let me introduce you to some kick-a$$ fashion!  Kanvis is raw, edgy yet minimalistic, but in a good way.
Israeli designer, Kfir Levy, originally started Kanvis in 2006 but then re-launched the line last year here in Los Angeles with a bang. 

Made with cottons, wool and natural fibers and special hand-dying techniques, these pieces are perfect for layering for everyday wear. Kanvis is being in sold in over 50 stores nationwide, with average price points ranging from $140-$190. 

I love a man that knows how to dress and I'd take one dressed head to toe in Kanvis, anyday.

Kanvis will be at the GRAMMY Style Studio all this week!

Style Studio Designer Profile: Bagstil

By Hillary

California Contemporary, are just two words that you could use to describe the one of the newest handbag lines, Bagstil. But Bagstil is a blend of the English and German languages for style. Designer Cindy Gellersen brings her European and American influences together to create the sexy and practical Bagstil collection. Bagstil offers a versatile collection of handbag styles in a variety of color ways. The bags are grouped by their perfect function.

This1: Travels

Several of the most perfect bags for jet setting – pockets, handles and shoulder straps are all adjustable to fit into your demanding schedule!

This1: Computes

Who says techy can’t be sexy! Laptop bag meets fashionable chic carry all.

This1: Shops –

The perfect carryall! When you are on the go, you want to make sure everything goes with you!

This1: Clubs –

Gorgeous evening bags with adjustable/removable shoulder strap. This 1 Clubs would be the perfect red carpet accessory. When worn as a clutch, without the shoulder straps, this bag adds a bit of understated contemporary glamour to any formal look.


One of the great things about Bagstil, is that they are made in California, making them made in the USA!

Not sure where to go with your new Bagstil bag?

Check out this video for inspiration!

 

Style Studio Designer Profile: Jill Reno

By Rana Lash

What do Jane Lynch, Gene Simmons and Eva Parker have in common? They all wear jewelry from the Jill Reno Collection. Jill’s collection is full of one-of-a-kind jewelry made with rare stones and materials from all over the world. From delicate chain necklaces to chunky statement pieces, the Jill Reno Collection has the perfect piece for every person and every occasion. Some of my favorites include a mid length necklace made from hammered gold baubles and a pair of hoop earrings with gold flowers and blue stones hanging from each hoop.

Jill’s jewelry is heavily influenced by her travels across the globe. During her trips, she collects gemstones and other materials which she later incorporates into her jewelry. That means each piece in her collection has its own unique story. In fact, Jill has a remarkable ability to embody the passions and culture from each place she visits into each item of jewelry in her collection.

Jill’s love of art and design goes all the way back to her childhood in Texas. As the granddaughter of famed sculptor Jim Reno, Jill has always been immersed in a world of creativity and creation. After graduating from college, magna cum laude, she rediscovered her love of art and design. She enrolled in the Belles Artes in San Miguel de Allende Mexico, where she studied sculpting, and at the Southwest School of Art
and Craft in San Antonio, where she studied jewelry design. Wanting to master her craft and learn from the best, Jill returned to her roots and began apprenticing with her grandfather.

But Jill strives for more than simply creating beautiful jewelry. The Jill Reno Collection is about creating art that touches the human soul and provokes an emotional response. “My grandfather taught me that the best art provokes an emotional reaction from the viewer. Every time I see someone’s face light up after looking at themselves in one of my pieces, I know I have accomplished my goal.”

Jill’s jewelry has been featured in Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, US Weekly, In Touch and the New York Times Style Magazine. She was also named “Top Designer to Watch” by Fashion Wire Daily.

To see more of the Jill Reno Collection visit www.jillrenocollection.com or see her this week at the GRAMMY Style Studio.

(Photos courtesy of jillrenocollection.com)

Style Studio Designer Profile: Lloyd Klein

By Joyoon Kim

Lloyd Klein initially trained in architecture, ventured into the world of fashion after becoming mesmerized by a Givenchy haute couture runway show. He was appointed head designer for the legendary Maison Mme. Grès just after two seasons. Upon the successful completion of his contract with Grès, Klein launched his own signature label. His designs convey a bold androgynous balance of broad masculinity and an edgy femininity. He fancies mixing and matching a variety of textual and delicate fabrics. His designs have been described as “clean minimalist chic”.  Currently, Klein and his business reside in sunny Los Angeles, California and is one of very few Couturier's in the US.

Did you know?

His two-story Flagship is located in the most charming shopping neighborhoods in LA (7415 Beverly Blvd.), and serves both as a workshop and retail space. The 7,700 square foot space has the feeling of a old-world Parisian Salon, the inside includes a private VIP consultation lounge and fitting room; editorial and sales showroom; conference room; chic retail space; and last but not least an archive library featuring the history of his work.


Klein’s been featured on numerous popular television shows including America’s Next Top Model, the Ali G. Show, and well as cameo appearances on several other programs. Furthermore, he has quite a celebrity following such as Katie Couric, Angela Bassett, Natalie Cole, Nikki and Paris Hilton, Joan Rivers, Tyra Banks and many others.

So what is next for Klein? He has plans to expand his brand presence in extended product categories through licensing of toiletries, candles, luggage, wallets, shoes, bags, jewelry, etc. There's also talk about a documentary-style reality television series about Klein that is currently in development. We'll see ...

To see more from Lloyd Klein visit the website or see his work in person at the GRAMMY Style Studio.