Norisol Ferrari: A Look For Every Woman

The Spring 2013 collection of Norisol Ferrari evokes a sense of classic femininity through various stages of life. Whether a fashionable mother at brunch with friends or the head of a Fortune 500 company, Norisol Ferrari has a look for every woman no matter what occasion may arise. The Spring 2013 Collection that will be at Gus Mayer’s trunk show on May 14-15 was inspired by a global woman’s wardrobe. Norisol designed with different experiences in mind, including Girls Night Out, All Day All Night, Powering Through and many more. The trunk show will offer inventory on all styles, ranging from size 0 to 14. You can love it now, buy it now, wear it now and feel fabulous now. Gus Mayer is proud to be the only store in the state of Alabama to carry this exclusive line.

Each garment is made in the heart of New York’s garment center with artisanal hands. Norisol’s eye for detail ensures meticulous, perfect construction that results in a truly beautiful garment. These heirloom pieces address women’s needs through every phase of life, leaving a legacy that you can pass down to the next generation. Her dashing collections are amazingly soft and incredibly lightweight as Norisol designs with comfort and fit front of mind.

The Spring 2013 Collection featured at Gus Mayer consists of all black and white items, with hints of neutral beige and metallic pieces, a huge trend this season. Take a sneak peek at what will be offered to buy immediately at the trunk show:

About Norisol Ferrari:

Norisol Ferrari is a New Yorker at heart. Born just outside of Manhattan and of Venezuelan descent, she found her independence at a young age. Growing up in the 80s, she gravitated towards the exploding music and nightlife scene of lower Manhattan. Looking to express her self-identity, she handcrafted original and daring looks for herself and friends. An avid researcher, Norisol worked and lived around the globe, absorbing the rich cultures of Spain, Italy, England, and France. Stepping outside of her own community allowed Norisol to see firsthand the exquisite quality and craftsmanship of some of her most revered designers. Upon her return to New York with a new and greater understanding of the design process and a passion to empower women of the world, Norisol turned her attention to the art of fine tailoring and began working with the best craftsmen in New York launching her own Ready-to-Wear collection in 2010.

She has designed for private clients over the past 25 years, but showed a full collection in 2010 to address the ever-increasing needs of her clientele. The brand has seen pronounced success in the United States and has plans to expand into Europe this fall. Celebrities spotted in Norisol Ferrari include Eva Longoria, Jennifer Hudson and Hayden Panettiere, star of ABC’s Nashville.

Lola and Sophie…. Playful, Chic, Sexy, Sophisticated!

What is Lola & Sophie?

Lola & Sophie specialize in colorful collections of cozy knit tops and dresses, inspired by the designers’ fluffy companions! Lola is a golden long-haired Chihuahua and Sophie is a grey/beige Havanese. Pet owners and dynamic design duo of Lola & Sophie, Gito and Gene, have created a line that dresses the customer in a playful yet chic, cozy but sophisticated look. Dog lovers and fashionistas alike will be crazy for this fun line of clothing!

Where can you find Lola & Sophie?

Gus Mayer carries Lola & Sophie’s trendy but oh so comfy brand each season at both locations – Birmingham and Nashville. This Thursday – Saturday, April 25 – 27, the infamous Sophie will be joining Gene Kagan for a trunk show as he shows off their latest collection at Gus Mayer at The Summit. Bring your own furry friend along for a dog treat as you shop for a fashionable top, perfect for any occasion. Lola & Sophie is also distributed at specialty stores throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

Is Lola & Sophie just basics?

Originally slated to be a basic T-shirt line, Lola & Sophie quickly became a major player and now stands on its own with a broad offering of exciting and novel clothing items, such as knit and silk tops, form-fitting, ruched dresses and layered cardigans.

The first collection was shipped in the spring of 2009 and offered four basic silhouettes in 10 colors. Growing at an exponential rate, the line now offers a wide variety of fabrics, textures, colors and silhouettes. Gene calls it, “Novelty on steroids.” He continues, “There’s nothing basic about this line anymore!”

 

Gito and Gene believe a women’s wardrobe is an outlet for her personal creativity, style, taste and functionality. Because of this, fashionistas have many choices when they walk into their closet. Lola & Sophie wanted to give women an option that eliminated the nightmare of having to try on twenty different outfits before finding the perfect one.

The creation of their Signature Overdrape has been re-racked into the “I’ve worn this so many times, but want to wear it again” closet space. Its versatility as a chic jersey top that easily converts into a dress solves many a fashion nightmare, and its inventive use of figure flattering drapery and an edgy asymmetrical hemline is a testament to Lola and Sophie’s comfortable yet glamorous aesthetic.

Meet the Designers Behind Lola & Sophie.

First introduced about a decade ago in New Jersey by a mutual friend, Gito and Gene became casual acquaintances, and after several months lost touch. Five years later, fate brought them together again – this time halfway around the world at a nightclub in St. Tropez.  They became fast friends and a year later decided to start a clothing line together that they named Gender Bias. Gito comes from a world of high-end retail (www.gitostores.com), and Gene designed and manufactured for everyone up and down Fashion Avenue. Together they create a product that is trendy, fashionable, and very wearable. “Fashion is about confidence,” says Gito. “Our philosophy is fit and feel – we always choose the most comfortable fabrics with soft hand, and then spend countless hours molding it to the woman’s body.”

Where has Lola & Sophie been featured?

With several best sellers already, Lola & Sophie is poised to develop a nice niche in the competitive contemporary market. They have been recognized in The Oprah Magazine and Daily Coterie as classic pieces at a great price-point.

Natura Bissē: Don’t Grow Up, Grow Younger

Natura Bissē, a transformational skincare company, has been making advances since 1979 that truly revitalize the face by improving skin tone, skin texture and luminosity. Grounded in research by experts and professional aestheticians, Natura Bissē has positioned itself as one of the most exclusive brands in the world. This elite brand began to differentiate itself from other high-end beauty products at its inception more than 30 years ago. It was founded in Barcelona, Spain on June 7, 1979 and is owned almost entirely by the Fisas family.

The first decade was spent branding the company nationally, while developing products based on what experts and professional aestheticians determined the skin needed. The meticulous research and attention to detail set Natura Bissē apart. Its collections are formulated to treat almost any skincare need from extra sensitive skin, acne, to anti-aging solutions. In 1995, Natura Bissē expanded into the U.S. in some of the most exclusive stores, such as Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Barney’s. After expanding from Spain to the United States, Natura Bissē took off around the world and now has an impressive international presence, including locations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia.

Shalon Ballard, Skincare Expert

Gus Mayer has been handpicked as one of the premiere retailers to offer this elite and luxurious brand. In addition to providing the multidimensional revitalizing line of products, Gus Mayer offers Natura Bissē facials allowing customers to experience a revolutionary rejuvenating treatment. Gus Mayer also carries 10 collections of Natura Bissē, the benefits of which are listed at the bottom of this post. These collections have received glowing reviews from users who saw results within days. Gus Mayer’s own Skincare Expert and Natura Bissē Specialist, Shalon Ballard, spearheaded bringing the Natura Bissē line into Gus Mayer after personally experiencing the miraculous transformation of his own skin from using the creams for a short period of time. As the lead Natura Bissē sales associate at Gus Mayer, Ballard witnesses his customers quick return to the store to purchase the product after a sample gives instant and cumulative results.

The media, particularly beauty and fashion magazines, have been so impressed with Natura Bissē’s products they have recognized them as “must-haves.” The company has been featured in Oprah, Vogue, InStyle, New Beauty and OK! Celebrities like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez, have chosen Natura Bissē for their skin care needs, while others such as Melissa George and Nicolette Sheridan send letters praising the beauty products. The Oscars and Academy Awards host Natura Bissē for makeovers and beauty treatments before the Red Carpet due to high demand from attendees.

Natura Bissē has received numerous awards over the years, such as:

• Vogue Best Specific Treatment
• Vogue Best Body Product
• Vogue Best Cutting-Edge Treatment Product on the Market
• Vogue Beauty Award in the Basic Body Treatment
• Elle Best Eye Contour Treatment
• Elle Best Product
• Beauty Snob Award for Best Product
• Handbag Beauty Award in the Best Professional Product Category.
• Vogue’s February 2013 Product of the Month

Natura Bissē is sold in the most exclusive, high-end spas around the world, but you can purchase yours without leaving the country. Gus Mayer carries collections that meet any skincare need, including the most sought-after preventatives of anti-aging. One of these preventatives is the Natura Bissē Diamond Life Infusion serum that breathes new life into the skin by using the recently discovered magnetic active ingredient, Bio-Magnet Nanosomes. This anti-aging ingredient provides extremely effective rejuvenating action that results in cell renewal, improved skin tone, skin texture and luminosity. The invigorating night treatment prolongs the lifespan of skin cells and slows the aging process to preserve the youth of the skin so that its customers “don’t grow up,” instead they “grow younger.” Formulated with 16 potent ingredients, Diamond Life Infusion is an ampoule-strength renewal serum that infuses the deepest levels of the skin for unprecedented lift and rejuvenation. Research has shown that Diamond Life Infusion reverses aging 3.9 years in just seven days.

Other benefits of Diamond Life Infusion:

• Increases the renewal and regeneration of the skin for aluminous, youthful glow
• Diminishes fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness caused by excessive epidermal thickness
• Corrects extremely dry skin from the inside out, effectively preventing flaky and rough skin
• Restores an even skin tone by preventing the formation of dark spots
• Provides an intensive lifting and firming effect that restores the youthful life of the facial contour
• Increases Collagen I and Hyaluronic acid, intensively redensifying the skin and visibly enhancing its elasticity
• Includes repair of the skin after surgery procedures due to its intensive regenerating properties

These results can easily be yours. Call Gus Mayer’s Shalon Ballard at 205.870.3300 today to set up a skin analysis, as well as a Natura Bissē facial in the spa room. Use this list of collections to customize the perfect line to give you the younger, radiant, hydrated, beautiful skin you deserve.

Natura Bissē Collections:

• Diamond Collection: global anti-aging products that combat all signs of aging and prevent discoloration
• Inhibit Collection: surgical alternative that gives skin firmness and helps the muscles from contracting; lasts longer than surgical injections
• NB Ceutical: alcohol-free, paraben-free and preservative-free; perfect for irritable, sensitive skin and helps skin build a tolerance to outside irritants
• Oxygen: restores radiance to congested or dull skin
• C+C Vitamin: repairs sun damage and rehydrates skin
• Stabilizing Line: anti-acne, anti-oil product that stabilizes skin
• Cure Collection: slows aging, reverses age, adapts to any color skin and evens out redness
• Essential Shock: brings breakouts under control, especially during hormonal changes; shocks skin back to youth and rehydrates
• Cytokines (Top Ten Collection): cream for post-surgery that repairs skin with a natural growth factor
• Spa Line: breaks down cellulite, helps burn fat faster, numbs arthritis pain; perfect for using before and after exercising

Hilton Hollis: A New York Southern Gentleman

Born in Natchez, Mississippi, Hilton Hollis developed a love of sewing and art that turned into a passion for technical and artistic expression through clothing. He moved to New York in 1997 to study at the Fashion Institute of Technology where he trained under Tim Gardner from Calvin Klein. Upon graduation, Hilton met with great success in the world of fashion as he joined 90 of the most distinguished international designers at the “NYC 2000 Millennium Fashion Show” in Times Square. Since that time he has collaborated with some of the industry’s most highly respected designers, including John Bartlett and Dana Buchman, and established himself as a highly sought-after designer for the modern woman.

You are originally from Mississippi. How have your Southern roots impacted your design aesthetic?

 I was born in Natchez, MS where the gothic architecture and grandeur of the homes have stuck with me.  A lot of my designs are influenced by line and replication through seaming. Building a garment is really not that different than building a home.

Along those lines, do you consider yourself a “Southern gentleman”?

 I do consider myself a Southern gentleman. I still open the door for women and say yes ma’am!  Beyond that, I stay true to my Southern upbringing.I treat people with respect and work extremely hard to accomplish my goals.

What gave you your start in the fashion industry? 

My start was through a great job I had in Jackson, MS at Maison Weiss.  My former and late boss, Bernard Weiss said to me one day, “Hilton, you should be in NY.”  Mr. Weiss wrote my letter of recommendation to FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology).  He believed I had the talent, and for me it almost seemed like a far-fetched dream.

Nature seems to be an inspiration in your latest collection. How does nature translate to fashion for you?

Nature translates in many ways, as I love the outdoors.  From the colors that explode in spring to the dim grey days in the winter.  Just this morning I was walking my dog in Central Park (we walk about 3 miles every morning) and I was amazed by all of the color that is popping out around the park.  It’s inspiring!

Are there any specific colors or shapes that inspire you?

I love classic silhouettes:  the basic sheath, fit and flare, the shift, pencil skirts.  It’s about taking those shapes and modernizing them.

What type of woman do you design for?

 I design for women with a sophisticated taste level and a true understanding of fabric.  We use the best fabric from around the world and it takes someone with a keen eye to recognize the difference.  My customer can be the 25-year-old daughter to the 70-year-old grandmother and the 45-year-old mother in between.  I dress many generations of women.

You are known for contributing your time and talent for several charitable organizations nationwide. Why do you feel it is important to give back to one’s community or a cause in which one believes?

 I think everyone is given a talent, but when you can give back by using your talent for the betterment of others it’s truly rewarding.

What is the best piece of advice you could give to a young person getting their start in the fashion industry?

Stay true to yourself and NEVER give up!  It’s so easy to feel defeated in this industry, but by following your heart and staying true to who you are the rewards will come.

Hilton Hollis will be returning to his Southern roots Thursday, April 18 and Friday, April 19 when he presents his Fall 2013 Collection, “The Exoskeleton” at Gus Mayer. This collection was inspired by the study of how certain animals are covered and protected by an outer surface or shell. Some are used as protection, while others act as camouflage. The concept involves replication of seaming that mimic surface textures of some animals with an exoskeleton, covering the body with fabric that acts as a barrier against the elements and strengths of which is given in these outer shells. Don’t miss your opportunity to meet this artist of fashion at Gus Mayer!

POPPIN’ Girls Night Out ~ only at Gus Mayer!

 

Are you ready to Get GLAM with Gus Mayer? We are proud to be hosting our annual GIRLS NIGHT OUT event this Thursday, April 11th at our Gus Mayer location at The Summit.

Ladies can enjoy a denim exchange, style seminars and makeovers, FREE Glamour Shots, pop-up shops, sweet treats from Seasons 52 and popchips, and much, much more. Bring all of the girls to Gus and let’s get GLAM!

Facial Friday: Clean, Beautiful Skin

~ By Melanye Morris, Gus Mayer Esthetician

A common misconception about acne is that it affects younger people and a person will “grow out of it”. I am in my 40′s and still deal with acne issues and must address it in my daily skincare routine, monthly facials and visits to a dermatologist.

There are three factors that contribute to acne and it’s important to address these factors while fighting acne.

1. Overproduction of oil (sebum). I hear from people all the time about “overwashing” their skin or “stripping” it with high alcohol content toners because the skin feels oily. This may feel good in the short term but it will lead to an imbalance in the skin. The oil glands will be more stimulated to produce oil creating a vicious cycle.

2. Irregular shedding of dead skin cells resulting in irritation of the hair follicles of skin. It is so important to incorporate some type of exfoliation in your skincare routine. Look for products with Alpha Hydroxys, Glycolic Acid or Retinoids.

3. Buildup of bacteria. Be sure that skincare products have something to fight the bacteria. Look for Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide.

Don’t forget that facials are also a great way to combat acne! Always share with your esthetician what you are using at home including prescription treatment options so that a comprehensive plan can be customized just for you.

Where is the Gus Mayer Facial Room?

The Facial Room is tucked away in the back of Gus Mayer to give you a private and luxurious experience. You can find it around the corner from the service desk and down the hall. Behind the door, you will find a tranquil room in an elegant palette for all your

All Spa Services are performed by Melanye Morris, Licensed Esthetician. Please call (205) 870-3300 to set up an appointment.

FACIAL ROOM AVAILABLE ONLY AT BIRMINGHAM LOCATION.

Melanye Morris: Licensed Esthetician

Melanye Morris is a licensed Esthetician with an extensive background in beauty, skincare and management. She began her career at Deborah Stone as an esthetician and makeup artist while attending UAB. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, her passion for skincare led to her decision to stay in the spa industry. Melanye continued her education by working in the dermatology field, managing a spa and becoming an account executive/educator with Darphin Paris. She has traveled all over the US and has worked with many spas and medical spas. She has also trained at the Darphin Institute in Paris. We are delighted that she has re-joined our team as the Gus Mayer Esthetician. Her belief is that facials and a good skincare program are essential tools for improving and maintaining the health and appearance of the skin. In addition, the facials incorporate products creating a sensory journey to relax the mind as well as massage techniques helping to alleviate stress. Her philosophy is based on the knowledge that many factors, both external and internal, affect the condition of skin.

“I am excited to work with such a talented and dynamic team. What I loved most about working at Gus Mayer was the fun environment and level of service. I am impressed with their continued commitment to customers by including a beautiful private facial room tucked away at the Summit location. For added convenience, a complimentary makeup application featuring the latest seasonal look is available after every facial service.”

- Melanye Morris

Facial Friday: Skin Care and Rosacea

by Melanye Morris, Licensed Esthetician

What is the best skincare and facial for treatment of Rosacea??? The following article is from the National Rosacea Society website and it provides excellent information on how to care for rosacea. I get so many questions about rosacea. Mostly, what types of facials and skincare would help. I customize every facial and have learned various massage techniques that are safe and beneficial for clients with rosacea. Gus Mayer has many products (skincare and makeup) that are formulated for sensitive skin. We welcome you to come in and let our knowledgeable team assist you with your specific needs.

Skin Care & Cosmetics

Consistent, gentle skin care and effective use of makeup can make a visible difference in managing rosacea and improving the look of your skin. The key is to use products and techniques that minimize irritation. One good guide: look for products that are noted as appropriate for sensitive skin or skin with rosacea — and avoid any products that sting, burn or cause irritation.

In a National Rosacea Society survey of 1,066 patients, 41 percent reported that certain skin-care products aggravated their condition and 27 percent said certain cosmetics also caused rosacea flare-ups. To avoid irritation, follow these tips when choosing skin-care and makeup products:

• Watch out for common rosacea irritants. In surveys conducted by the National Rosacea Society, many patients cited the following ingredients as triggers for irritation: alcohol (66 percent), witch hazel (30 percent), fragrance (30 percent), menthol (21 percent), peppermint (14 percent) and eucalyptus oil (13 percent). Most respondents said they avoided astringents, exfoliating agents and other types of products that may be too harsh for sensitive skin.
• Choose fragrance-free skin-care and makeup products.According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “Fragrances cause more allergic contact dermatitis than any other ingredient.” Skin is a vast portal for allergens, and the irritations allergies bring can weaken skin even more. Using fragrance-free and allergy-tested products reduces your risk of skin irritation. Note that “allergy tested” shouldn’t be confused with “hypoallergenic,” a term that is not clearly defined by the cosmetics industry.
• Test a product first. Before using a product on your face, try it on a patch of skin in a peripheral area, such as the neck. If you have a reaction, avoid the product and note the ingredients. Rosacea irritants may vary from person to person, so your individual skin’s reaction should be your guide.

• Use minimal products. Rosacea patients should also consider reducing the number of items they use on their skin by choosing products with multiple functions.

Where is the Gus Mayer Facial Room?

The Facial Room is tucked away in the back of Gus Mayer to give you a private and luxurious experience. You can find it around the corner from the service desk and down the hall. Behind the door, you will find a tranquil room in an elegant palette for all your facial needs.

All Spa Services are performed by Melanye Morris, Licensed Esthetician. Please call (205) 870-3300 to set up an appointment.

FACIAL ROOM AVAILABLE ONLY AT BIRMINGHAM LOCATION.

Melanye Morris is a licensed Esthetician with an extensive background in beauty, skincare and management. She began her career at Deborah Stone as an esthetician and makeup artist while attending UAB. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, her passion for skincare led to her decision to stay in the spa industry. Melanye continued her education by working in the dermatology field, managing a spa and becoming an account executive/educator with Darphin Paris. She has traveled all over the US and has worked with many spas and medical spas. She has also trained at the Darphin Institute in Paris. We are delighted that she has re-joined our team as the Gus Mayer Esthetician. Her belief is that facials and a good skincare program are essential tools for improving and maintaining the health and appearance of the skin. In addition, the facials incorporate products creating a sensory journey to relax the mind as well as massage techniques helping to alleviate stress. Her philosophy is based on the knowledge that many factors, both external and internal, affect the condition of skin.

“I am excited to work with such a talented and dynamic team. What I loved most about working at Gus Mayer was the fun environment and level of service. I am impressed with their continued commitment to customers by including a beautiful private facial room tucked away at the Summit location. For added convenience, a complimentary makeup application featuring the latest seasonal look is available after every facial service.”
- Melanye Morris