Bridal Illustrations: Kate Middleton

(Vera Wang and Jason Wu)

Truly iconic wedding dresses rarely come along and when they do they create a tsunami of change in the industry. Kate Middleton's wedding dress has the potential to be the gown of the century, now the question is who will design it?

(Prabal Gurung)

Since first learning of the royal wedding announcement I've been anticipating the dress and the designer illustrations that will appear vying for the chance to be "the one" Kate choses. Thankfully Women's Wear Daily did all the work and asked designers to share what they had in mind for the future Princess. Here are a few of my favorites, both for the dress design and the fashion illustration.

(Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli for Valentino)

Its so interesting to me to see designer illustrations. Some are so detailed and "readable" (like this Valentino) and others are super stylized (like the Badgley Mischka or Chado Ralph Rucci).

(Badgley Mischka and JCrew)

I suppose both have their purpose and it depends on the goal of the sketch for each designer. Is it to sell the dress and make the design completely understandable or is it simply used as a marketing tool to expand the brand, its esthetic, and to give the gist of their vision?

(Chado Ralph Rucci)

My prediction for this royal-wedding dress is it will be a departure from the strapless gowns that have become so common. I imagine Kate will look sophisticated and beautiful while being modestly covered in intricate details like freshwater pearl embroidery (as seen on the Chado gown) or layers of delicate chattily lace. Unlike the over the top opulence of Diana's 1981 gown but not nearly as minimal as Caroline Bisset Kennedy's, which the JCrew design reminds me of. (Although a beautiful interpreted sketch, is a little too minimal for this royal wedding.) I also assume Kate will choose a British designer.

(Nina Ricci and Lela Rose)

Even though you may not be Kate Middleton or marrying Prince William you too can have a custom bridal illustration. (Shameless plug time) You can click here and here to examples of my custom fashion illustrations for brides, as well as reading through some of my past posts labeled bridal. And to to see a slideshow of all the designer sketches WWD released click here.

Costume Illustration: Giorgio Armani

When someone says "Armani" I think of sophisticated Italian tailored suits and sleek evening wear. Recently though, Giorgio Armani has been branching out into jaw dropping theatrical show stoppers, starting with these designs for Lady Gaga. I remember watching Gaga perform at the Grammy's in this heart-shaped leotard (below) and thinking it would be a great look to illustrate. I never actually did it, so I was exited to stumble upon the Armani illustration.

I love they way the beading is rendered! The entire garment glistens. And in the sketch below there are all these little flecks of color that make the drawing appear iridescent. Its great to see a designer fully render a garment. Although stylized illustrations can be fabulous, I think its nice to see all the details and get a full understanding of the design.

Armani has now moved on to design the tour wardrobe for Alicia Keys' "Element of Freedom" European tour. The looks are not as dramatic or avant garde as the Gaga design's but they do have the glitz and glam that you expect from a pop star performance and a design legend.

This last group (below) actually reminds me of the "art test" part of my application to FIT's fashion design department. I had to create a concert wardrobe for one of my favorite singers. I chose Ms. Whitney Houston. She was touring at the time and was wearing only Dolce and Gabbana. (Maybe I'll share it sometime if I can find it.) Anyone apply to FIT lately? I wonder if this is still part of the application and art test.

I love seeing, and collecting, designer fashion illustrations, and its all the more exciting when they're costume designs! Hopefully Armani will set the set the trend here and more designers will share their sketches.

(Random side note: I was once asked to illustrate Alicia, and the sketch was actually given to her. It was years ago, and one of my first red carpet illustrations. My work has improved a lot since then, but you can check it out here.)

Red Carpet Moment: Lauren Miller

I'm excited to share my most recent fashion illustration from the red carpet, its of Lauren Miller, who just so happens to be my beautiful cousin. Lauren chose this incredible brown lace and pink chiffon gown designed by J. Mendel to wear to the 80th Annual Academy Awards.

Lauren may soon have two Brooke Hagel originals because the same week I completed this illustration and wrapped it to send off to her, Seth popped the question! There's no doubt Lauren will be a stunning bride. I can't wait to see the dress she picks and sketch her a custom bridal illustration.

Fashion's Night Out: THE SHOW

Two nights ago I had the privilege of attending "The Show" hosted by Anna Wintour and Vogue. It's said to have been the largest public fashion show of all time. Over 150 models including Gisele Bundchen, Naomi Campbell, Liya Kebede, and Adriana Lima walked the breathtaking circular runway in Lincoln Center's Plaza. It was an incredible show that still has me on a fashion high two days later. Which ideally was one of the goals of the show, to get people amped to go out and spend for tomorrows 2nd annual Fashion's Night Out extravaganza. (Here's my post from last year's inaugural night.)

The evening was flawless, right down to the seating which was a star-burst formation with the dancing fountain at the center. The runway spiraled outward and I was seated at the end of the aisle and in a section that was a single row. This meant that I had models coming in right behind me, walking in front of me, and leaving along side me. It was crazy.

At exactly 7:30, just after the sun set and the buildings began to glow, Alicia Keys' "Empire State of Mind" began to play while fuschia spot lights whipped all around. Heads were whirling around fiercely trying to see where the models would emerge from when a double decker NYC tour bus pulled up with dancing and screaming models. The Show was absolutely spectacular. Seven trends were showcased: Tartan Twist, Pure at Heart, Fifties Flair, Jazz-Age Cool, Weekend Wrap-Up, Go Global, and Rock Chic.

Photography was prohibited, but once the show started I noticed everyone whipping out their iPhones and camera's so I joined in! I not only took these photo's but caught a few seconds of video as well! (Shh, don't tell.)

The Show was only 15 or 20 spectacular minutes. Right as it ended Pharrell jumped up on the fountain for a little closing performance. Once that was over I immediately headed over to the VIP area near the fountain where I caught glimpses (and some pictures) of Michael Kors, Seth Myers, Roger Federer (who I actually saw win a match in the US Open the previous night!), Harvey Weinstein, Vera Wang, and the queen herself, Ms. Anna Wintour. (Whom one of my very first blog posts was about, click here to read it.) I will soon post all of my pictures on my Facebook fanpage and will add a link to that here once I do.

I've been to a bunch of fashion week shows before, but there's no doubt this one will be at the top of my list for a while! I had my doubts about Fashion Week moving but if this first show is any indicator of whats to come, bring it on. Dying to see more, don't worry, the entire show is due to air on CBS Sept 14th at 10PM, so set your dvr now.

(Lincoln Center overhead image: by Tom and Lorenzo, pink-lit Lincoln Center image: Roxy Victoria, All other images and video: Brooke Hagel)

Nate Making Over NY

Eight years ago I, along with the rest of America, developed a serious crush on Nate Berkus. Within five minutes of stepping on Oprah's stage he began wowing us with his impressive makeovers and charm. The talented interior designer creates beautifully functional spaces that truly reflect the needs, lifestyles, and personalities of his clients.

There are many signatures to Nate's sophisticated, masculine, and modern design style, but one in particular especially resonates with me. Nate creates lovely walls of art displaying photo's, collections, mementoes and sometimes even personal "doodles" to be enjoyed by his clients on a daily basis.

These are some of the beautiful rooms from Nate's portfolio featuring his eclectic wall displays. I would love to take inspiration from one of these rooms for my small NYC studio apartment, add some fashion illustrations (of course!) and maybe swap the brass tables and frames with chrome and silver for a polished, fashionable and feminine space.

The room shots shown here are from Nate Berkus Interiors and the snapshots are mine, taken at Nate's first ever book signing, five years ago. My girlfriends and I all snuck out of work a few hours early and headed out to Long Island to be there and sit front row! I actually remember it like it was yesterday, Nate was a fantastic speaker, and we had a blast meeting him. The event was filmed by a camera crew so we were certain we'd have a little cameo on Oprah, but it never happened.

Recently Nate bid farewell to Oprah to star in his own show that will be filming here in New York! The only thing that would make the news any more exciting would be if I was working on it. (Hint, hint, Nate, if you need a design assistant with a talent for illustrating and shopping I'm available!) The show launches September 13th, so set your dvrs!

I wrote this post in honor of Nate Day on Twitter! Nate Day is the brainchild of the Moggit Girls. They've gotten just over 100 bloggers to participate by writing about Nate today and spreading the word about his new show. The shows producers are going to have one show filled with an entire audience of design bloggers so fingers crossed I'll be seeing Nate again soon! You can check out all the Nate Day blog posts here.

JCrew Bridal Boutique Invite

If your in the NYC area tomorrow, stop the opening of the very first JCrew Bridal Boutique. As if you needed more incentive, its being hosted by the fabulous Darcy Miller of Martha Stewart Wedding's. Isn't the invite adorable? I love that they chose to show only the back of the bride and her dog in matching veils and matching "dots." Too cute.

My Carrie Sketch Hits Sydney

Occasionally I license out my fashion illustrations for usage by other companies. Recently Sydney's Observatory Hotel contacted me to buy the usage rights for a few invitations they were designing for upcoming events. One event is a private screening of Sex and The City 2. (I'm ridiculously excited for this movie!)

Unfortunately I won't be heading down under anytime soon so I'm just going to have to see it in a regular theater sans champagne, but I do love the final invitation and how my Carrie illustration looks against the black background.

You can check out this post (here) from when I first sketched this look and if you'd like to frame a Carrie print for yourself you can order her from my shop.

Laura Linney

Sunday night I attended another fabulous event at the 92nd Street Y; a Conversation with Laura Linney. (Whom ever since seeing in Love Actually, I love!) Laura has three Oscar noms, a successful career on stage, film and television, and is the kind of girl you just want to spend a day with gabbing over brunch or strolling through the Met.

I've been a to few events at the famous Y but have never before submitted a question for the guest of honor. The theater fits 902 people and only a handful of questions are chosen, so skeptical me never thought my question would make it to the stage. For Laura though, I decided to give it a shot. My two part question was not only chosen, but was the first one asked of only four audience questions picked!

My question was "of the character's you've played, which one was your favorite due to their wardrobe?" After a brief pause of thought Laura answered Abigail Adams, in the John Adams miniseries. (My friends and I were so excited to hear my name and my question that I almost missed her answer! I'm also embraced to admit that I missed the series, but now need to schedule a marathon asap.) I followed with "which outfit from your personal life has been a favorite?" I was thinking she would name a fabulous couture gown she's graced the red carpet in, but I was wrong. Laura said that she doesn't think that one's come along yet. Interesting right.

Costume Design: The Red Queen

I found these kooky illustrations of Helen Bonham Carter's character in the new Alice in Wonderland, in last weeks People Magazine. The first is the concept drawing, and the second (on right) is the illustration that costume designer, Colleen Atwood, sketched and then created.

The drawings have so much personality and character! I remember really struggling with this back in college, in costume design classes. Trying to make the characters realistic and flawed was difficult for me. I tend to draw everyone very thin and pretty. Clearly this was not a problem here!

I may have to check out the costume in action. Today was the second time I was told I "had to see Alice in Wonderland" due to the amazing costumes. I'm a movie girl but this movie wasn't really calling me. Have you seen it? Is it worth my $12.75? (Yes, that is the cost of an adult movie ticket in Manhattan. Crazy right! And that's before the 3D charges, if I were to see it in 3D)

(Images: People Magazine March 15, 2010)

Oscar’s Gifting Suite

This week I had the opportunity to participate in an Oscar’s Gifting Suite! Within just a few days I made 100+ samples to “gift”, hopped a flight from NY to LA, and shared my work at a Beverly Hill’s invite only pre-Oscar’s Gifting Suite.

There was a lot of last minute prep involved, since I was notified about this event pretty late in the game. But being that I’m no stranger to all-nighters or some hard work, and had help from good friends, everything came together without a hitch.

I met some fantastic people, including representatives from the other 15 companies participating, Oscar nominees, television and film stars, musicians, and pro athletes. Everyone seemed to really love my work. I got fantastic feedback from the guests as well as gave three filmed interviews! (I’ll see if I can find them online and share them with you here soon.)

In addition to gifting prints, posters, and bookmarks, I also gave some gift certificates for a custom illustrations which can be used towards a custom bridal illustration or to capture their favorite red carpet look.

The gift certificates are also being included in gift bags being sent to the ladies of One Tree Hill; Sophia Bush, Bethany Joy Galeotti, Jana Kramer, Lisa Goldstein, and Shantel Van Senten. As well as Maria Shriver, and Jamie Lynn Sigler. It was a great event and what is hopefully the first of many.

(If you want to see all the photo's I'm going to post them all in album on my facebook fan page, so if your not a fan already there's no time like the present!)

Red Carpet Moment: Gwyneth at the Oscars

I’ve been waiting for this post ever since photographing this sketch and swatch at the Audrey Schilt exhibit at FIT. I’ve always been a huge fan of the Oscars and this is one of my all time favorite red carpet moments from Oscars past. Every girl should have a pretty in pink moment and Gwyneth’s 1999 Ralph Lauren silk taffeta gown was nothing less then fabulous in my opinion. Not only did Gwyneth win Best Actress that year, but rocking this dress she was the best-dressed winner as well! (As you can see from the tear, Vogue agrees!)

To watch the dress, (and Gwyenth) in action click here for a video of her emotional 1999 Oscar win and click here and here for my previous posts about Illustrator Audrey Schilt. Don't forget to tune in for tonight's live Oscar show! Fingers crossed there will be some fabulous fashion.

Carrie me Away

I stumbled upon the Sex and the City 2 trailer and now it's as though all is well in the world again (not to be dramatic or anything!) I couldn't be more excited. I miss Carrie and the girls, don't you? Inspired by the fabulous movie poster I drew my own Carrie complete with the gold aviators, c-c-curly dirty blond locks and her signature strut.

For the first movie I went to see it opening night with my girlfriends, but had serious doubts that it couldn't possibly live up to the series and I went in with very low expectations. Well was I ever wrong. I loved it! (After I drew "They're Back" showing the ladies in four of my favorite looks from the film.)

This time around consider the lesson learned, I'm getting excited starting now! How could you watch this trailer and not get excited!?!? It has NYC complete with fabulous fashions thanks of corse to the brilliant Patricia Field (whom I was lucky enough to intern for in the wardrobe department of SATC season 3 back in 2000), more international travel (my friends and I visited Egypt this past summer, I wonder if that's where they're vacationing, kind of looks like it), and I think I even spotted a wedding scene in there too!

Maybe after seeing the movie I'll illustrate the other three ladies as well. Miranda has been looking super chic these days, I bet she'll have a few fabulous fashion moments in this one. Until then, I hope you enjoy Carrie. I'll post her in the shop soon.

Warhol The Bazaar Years {Part 2}

Here are a few more highlights from the Andy Warhol exhibit currently on display in the Hearst Tower (shown below). For this post I grouped scans of the catalogue together in a collage like way to highlight his whimsical illustrations of accessories and products.

"Warhol found almost immediate success after arriving in New York...Armed with a portfolio of his student drawings and a degree in pictorial design from the Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University)." (Charlie Scheips, exhibit catalogue) Shortly after arriving in New York, Warhol began illustrating for Haper's Bazaar. He collaborated with Bazaar editors for thirteen years.

Warhol The Bazaar Years {Part 1}

Last week I visited my old stomping ground, Hearst Magazines, for a meeting. On my way out I decided to check out what was on display in the gallery. I'm glad I did because it turned out to be a fantastic exhibit of artist design spreads for Harper's Bazaar by Andy Warhol. "This exhibition of Andy Warhol's work starting in the 1950's for Bazaar is relatively unknown and unique. " (Anthony T. Mazzola, exhibit catalogue)

The exhibit consisted of large scale reproductions of the original pages and spreads from vintage issues of the magazine. (A great job by Simon Alexander who directed the duplication of the images as they originally appeared. I always enjoyed working with Simon when I was at Hearst!)

While working for Bazaar Warhol created hundreds of illustrations but most of the works no longer exist, as it was not usual to return artwork to the artist and Bazaar does not have an artwork archive. The illustrations only survive within the spreads of the vintage issues.

While at Bazaar Warhol became well known for his shoe drawings. But in addition to the shoes he drew lot of accessories, beauty products, perfumes, butterflies, garments and cats.

Unfortunately the Hearst Tower is not open to the public, otherwise I'd tell you to go check out this show. I'll post some more images from the show tomorrow.

Big Love for my Design

Ginnifer Goodwin purchased my coat design! (I previously blogged about my winning design here) Ginnifer is the adorable actress who plays my very favorite polygamist wife on HBO's series Big Love and stole every scene in He's Just Not That Into You. She seems like a real girls girl and has a great sense of style.

She always looks polished and Audrey-esque with a little wink of whimsy. Here are some of her best red carpet moments. (In my humble opinion) I'm so excited Ginnifer of all people has purchased my design and I can't wait to see her in it. If you should come across a photo of her wearing it, please send it on over to me!

Bella Swan . . . a Bride!

As you know I love seeing actual designer sketches. I'm also a big reader and major movie goer. So when I discovered that InStyle magazine reached out to some of bridals best and asked the designers to sketch what they'd envision Bella Swan wearing when she walks down the isle to Edward Cullen, I was trilled to say the least! In Eclipse the dress is described as a early 1900s design of ivory lace that compliments the antique ring Edward gave her that belonged to his mother. (Remember Edward is about 100 years old)

I may have to revisit Eclipse and Breaking Dawn to read all the characters thoughts and reactions to her dress and come up with a design of my own. In the mean time though here are the sketches the designers have created. Although I love all the designers, I'm not sure I love the designs.

At least not for Bella Swans wedding to Edward Cullen! (Omg, I'm such a cheese ball! I know.) But what can I say, I'm such a girly girl. I have to admit it, I loved the Twilight books, and I am completely in love with Edward Cullen!!! (Yes mom, I know, he doesn't really exist. Blah, blah, blah. Just like you used to tell me about Dylan McKay. But a girl can dream can't she?)

Illustrations shown, top: Christian Siriano and Erin Fetherson

second: Monique Lhuillier and Badgely Mischka

third: Prabal Gurung and Lela Rose

bottom: Zac Posen and Max Azria