Pay it forward :)

Nick Verreos Attends the World Figure Skating Championships in Los Angeles

How I became a Superfan of Figure Skating: Golden Girl: Republic of Korea's Yu-Na Kim wins the 2009 Ladies Figure Skating Championship (photo courtesy of Johnny Nicoloro)

Last week, the all-important "Academy Awards" of Figure Skating Competitions--the ISU World Figure Skating Championships 2009--came to the Los Angeles STAPLES Center. The US and South African Pairs Team Is: Nick Verreos and Kara Janx, Season 2 Project Runway

Now, as many of you Project Runway fans may know (there are some of you still out there?) that back in Season 2, we were asked to design a costume for Olympic Figure Skater Sasha Cohen for the 7Th week of the show. The episode was aptly titled "On Thin Ice". Well kiddies, I was the ONLY one who even knew who Sasha Cohen was and acted like a thirteen year old girl meeting the Jonas Brothers when she was introduced to us (as well as what the challenge would be) . Not For Sasha Cohen: Nick Verreos' design for "On Thin Ice" episode, Project Runway Season 2

In short, I "came out of the closet" as being a fan of Figure Skating on Cable TV. To be honest, I was exposed to the sport by my partner and NIKOLAKI co-designer, David Paul, who is the REAL fan. So much so, that when David and his friend found out that the Championships were coming to LA, they each bought an entire WEEK'S PASS--to ALL the events! Needless to say, I didn't do that. He's SUPERFAN, I'm just a fan and a respectful TV watcher of the sport--oh and I REALLY love seeing those sometimes-wacky costumes!Superfan: NIKOLAKI co-designer David Paul, watching the practice sessions (photo courtesy of Johnny Nicoloro)

The entire week passed by and David was gone from 9 AM until 11 PM, almost living at the STAPLES Center, while I tended to NIKOLAKI and various other events and duties I had during the week. Saturday came and I had enough: After 6 days of listening to him in the evening go on and on about how AMAZING the Championships were, I caught the bug!Stand Out In A Crowd: Nick Verreos at the Staples Center

I went ahead and spent $200 and put my jacket and scarf on and got myself to the STAPLES Center to see the all-important Ladies Final Figure Skating Championship. My seat was fabulous (it should be for that price!) and it was near David and his skating buddies but I was by myself. A Fan With Taste: Renee Klish, the Army Art Curator for the US Army Center of Military History in Washington DC, poses with Nick Verreos at the STAPLES Center, World Figure Skating Championships

I was sandwiched between two lovely ladies who promptly schooled me with the "who, what and how" of the Ladies Final Championship skaters. Little did they know that I was already "up to speed" with fifteen years of watching figure skating on TV--heck I was even sent to Italy back in 2006 for the Torino Olympics to comment for NBC on the Ladies Figure Skating Costumes!
Miss Universe Parade of Nations: The top three skaters display their pride in front of the World's press

The Championships were AMAZING! I cannot lie. It was such a treat after years and years of seeing it on TV to be there, LIVE, watching it all happen . The Ladies Final Championship lasted about 6 hours (yep, all you see is about 2 hours of it on TV, when they get to the top 6 skaters at the end). The top Gold Medal Prize went to South Korea's Yu-Na Kim for her gorgeous and athletic performance. She did so many triples (triple jumps), she almost made me dizzy. The sold-out STAPLES crowd went CRAZY when she won. You'd think that half of South Korea was in attendance from the roar of the crowd and the flags that were being waved. Oh Canada, Oh Canada: Canada's Joannie Rochette at the World Figure Skating Championships ( photo courtesy of Johnny Nicoloro)

The First Runner Up, or Silver medal, went to one of my favorites, Canada's Joannie Rochette. I just love her. Don't know why, I just do. She reminds me of the "old school" Michelle Kwan and Sasha Cohen skaters. Lots of grace, beauty and artistry, which tends to be missing from the sport because it is now so heavily concentrated on athleticism and those all-important jumps. By the way, half of Canada WAS at the Staples cheering her on, as she won the Silver. Japan's Miki Ando "turns it out!" at the World's Figure Sakting Championships (photo courtesy of Johnny Nicoloro)

Finally Japan's Miki Ando received the Bronze, or Third Prize. Our American contenders didn't fare so well, but my favorite and the top US skater, Rachael Flatt, was incredible and in fact received a standing ovation for her performance. Rachael ended in fifth place, which was amazing for her considering she's only 16 years old and this was her first World Championship (more on Rachael at the end of this posting--wait for it!).Lyrical Ingenue: Sixteen Year Old Rachael Flatt: Fifth at the World Figure Skating Championships (photo courtesy of Johnny Nicoloro)

I was curiously drawn to her asymmetrical bodice red beaded Guipure Lace costume because the top portion silhouette reminded me so much of the design I did for Sasha Cohen on Season 2 Project Runway.
The Medal Ceremony: Kristi Yamaguchi is on the far left of the photo

A Medal Ceremony (which they don't show on TV unfortunately) soon followed, in which figure skating icon, Kristi Yamaguchi was on hand to present . Kristi, by the way, looked FABULOUS; her Dancing With The Stars body was in tip-top shape. After the Championships ended, I made my way to the lobby to find David and his friends, and before you could say "Michelle Kwan", I was surrounded with what seemed like 50 thirteen year old girls and their doting Mom's! They were all asking to take a photo and have me sign their booklets. I wondered if they were confused and thought that somehow I was a Figure Skater.
"I'm Not a Figure Skater from Greece!": Nick Verreos signs autographs and poses for photos at the Staples Center

In fact, I told the first photo-and-autograph seekers "Ummm, you know I'm not some famous figure skater right?" in embarrassment. They quickly responded with "Oh no, we know, you're Nick from Project Runway!!!!!" Well, I had no idea that Figure Skating Fans=Project Runway Fans. But now I do.
Now here's that "wait for it" moment: As I finally made it out the STAPLES Center, a woman with a couple of beautiful young girls came running up to me holding a phone: "Nick Nick!! Rachael Flatt (the 16 year old US skater) is on the phone and she LOVES you and wants to say 'Hi' !!". Then shortly after, her father introduces himself, telling me that they were big fans of the show and would love it if someday I would design Rachael's competition costume. Wow, I could not believe it! (neither could David). So we'll see. Maybe Rachael Flatt might be wearing a "Nick Verreos Original" when you see her at the Olympics next year.
Oh and you know that part about me not really being a "SUPERFAN". I am now.

Click Below for a video of the Medal Ceremony and the National Anthem of the Republic of Korea:

Classic = Timeless; Timeless ≠ Classic!!!!

Today, I am feeling great about my body. Yes, the soreness came from Pilates, Yoga, and Zumba.

I am glad that the teacher offers Mon. Wed. and Fri. for Pilates which gives me plenty of time to rest and regain my strength. I know the muscles take time to be built and to be shaped and rest in between will make the muscles toned up prettier. I want to have lean and toned muscles instead of big, chunky ones.

I didn't work out today, so finally I had the time to take pic. for myself. I found myself love this pair of Chanel pumps a lot and it goes practically w/ everything. Now I love the fact that Classic looks have long lasting significance which is truly a timeless look too.

We are leaving for LA. tomorrow and I will make sure I bring alone all of our swimming suits. :)

My ODJ.

1. TOP:

• Arbocrombie & Finch beign camel t shirt
• Mcginn cropped blazer

2. Bottom: Zara high waisted cropped pants w/ cuffs
3. Chanel two tone pump
4. Chanel cavair mini flap in silver HW
5. Wool hat w/ bow
6. Two strings of black beads necklaces

We can look very stylish even w/ those simplest pieces.


I could also use a scarf around my neck instead of necklace!


I tried to have my hat w/ my sunglasses on but they look funny together. haha..


Never have enough hats!!

Nick Verreos Will Be In San Antonio Texas this Thursday April 2nd!

Texas (Fashion) Hold 'Em!!!Nick Verreos co-emcees the IADT IMAGINE 2009 in San Antonio Texas, Thursday April 2nd

Watch out San Antonio, 'cause I'm coming! This week I will be flying into the big ol' State of Texas to co-host the International Academy of Design and Technology/IADT IMAGINE 2009 Fashion Show on Thursday April 2nd at the Norris Conference Center.
Last year, I had the pleasure of being invited to IADT San Antonio to emcee this wonderful event which showcases the fashions of IADT design students. I will also be doing a special workshop/seminar the day after at the IADT San Antonio Campus, discussing how I got into the world of Fashion Design and what steps you can take to navigate through "this crazy industry". Sibling Pose-Off: Nick Verreos poses with his sister Rita Verreos (wearing NIKOLAKI), at IADT San Antonio IMAGINE 2008 "red carpet" last year

I am always excited to return to the city San Antonio since it also just happens to be where my sister, Rita Verreos, lives as well as my beautiful nephew and niece, Alain and Casia. My parents also reside there. So as brief as my visit will be, I will try and get in some "Uncle Nick" time with them. Last time, they got a big kick out of riding in the limo with me to the event and sitting front row. I will have to see if my nephew Alain can put down his X-box 360 long enough to pay attention to his Uncle hosting and the pretty models (and fashion) that will be coming down the IMAGINE 2009 runway.Meet & Greet: Nick Verreos chats with a guest at last year's IADT San Antonio IMAGINE event and fashion show

If you are in the San Antonio area, make sure not to miss the show because it will be a great night of fashion , and a "Walk-Off" or two from yours truly--and hopefully I will get to meet you and take a fun photo--Call 210-530-9449 for tickets and info regarding my Seminar/ Meet-and-Greet the following day.
Click HERE for more IMAGINE 2009 Fashion Show information.

Review: Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid Foundation

I need a new routine.

On Fri. afternoon, we accompany my son for his tennis class as always. For that whole hour waiting, I think I can get some exercise as well. The gym is right next to the tennis court at the same community center. So I signed up for the whole family w/ their promotion rate. Most fitness centers provide kid-watch program so parents can concentrate on doing their exercises. I am pretty excited as I am going to wake up my every single cell of my body.

I did Zumba, Cha Cha dance and Yo-ga over last weekend. I have to admit that every move is somewhat different among various dancing. Even thought I have some foundation on dancing, it is still quite a challenge for me. For Zumba or Cha Cha, I learned to move along precisely on hip or shoulder w/ every beat, and I think the attitude will determine whether or not you are a good dancer in such a sexy dance. If you don't like to exercise, you better not quit dancing then. Woman are 10 times sexier if you know how to move your body RIGHT!!

I don't have ODJ to post since I am too exhausted to do decent modeling. But I'd love to share my fun pic. over this weekend. Now I need to adapt myself for a new routine which allows me to keep up my energy after exercising, and do blogging, and rest activities w/ my family .

Friday afternoon. Now I call it family get-fit day!!


I had my medical hosiery back on since I had chemical shots for my spider vein. Hopefully it will get rid off the tiny veins as much as possible.


Saturday afternoon. We girls meet at Santana Row at San Jose and our birthday girl bought 2 pairs of shoes where I bought my Sergio Rossi patent red buckle heels.


In fact, I want to pair a high waisted horizontal striped skirt for this ensemble. But since I don't have it, I guess I will have to look for it in the store or online.

Friday night purple

This is what I wore on Friday night for my friend's birthday party.
For my hair I used the babyliss conical wand.I had to order one off ebay after watching lollipop26's video!! I made the curls a little tighter as I knew it would be a loooong night and I did not want them to drop out too quickly. A ton of hair spray ensured that they were still in pretty good shape when I went to a housewarming party on Saturday, so I'm pretty impressed :).I used:
Maybelline dream satin liquid foundation (review coming up, but I love this so far!!),
MUFE lift concealer
MSF natural in medium
Nars laguna bronzer
Nars angelika blush
MAC moon river grand duo as highlight

UDPP
MAC violet pigment, scene, print, carbon, vellum and vapour e/s.
MAC blacktrack fluidline
L'Oreal voluminous mascara

BarryM 101
Trifle lipglass

Nails of The Week : OPI Overexposed In South Beach

Hi Beauties,

Here's another nail polish from the OPI South Beach Collection, "Overexposed In South Beach".

Let me know if you guys like this one! I loooove it! It has some blue and pink shimmer but it's not over the top. I am probably going to do this one for my feet soon.

XOXO,
Awilda

Fun at Farmer's Market! !!

I used to go to farmer's market a lot w/ my two elder kids but ever since I had the 3rd, I stopped going. Besides, I live so close to Whole Foods Markets, Safeway, and all the Asia supermarkets, what's the point of doing my grocery shopping under the big sun and risking myself of aging w/ all the freckles. haha...

But today, since friend's calling, I guess I could use the time to hang out and introduce the old fashion way of popping popcorn to my little daughter. She likes it and if I remember it correctly, it is the first time she ever tastes popcorn. lol

I only bought a bag of organic baby spinach. I usually saute them together w/ minced beef, garlic, then dash w/ soy sauce and my kids love it. Well, sometimes I would be tired of cooking new dishes for my kids then I know it is time to dine out to get new inspiration. It is good for moms to stay away from the kitchen once a while and great for family to try new things too.

Yes, taste bud can be trained!!! If you ever hated one type of food, that means you are not trying/eating/tasting food enough. lol

My ODJ.

1. TOP:

• American Apparel tank top
• H&M runway inspired floral bustier
• J Crew hot pink cardigan

2. Gray skinny high waist jeans (bought at American Eagle Outfitters)
3. Chanel two tone pumps
4. Chanel Valentine's coral medium flap
5. Accessory:

• Target bought floral brooch
• Designer friend, Elfi's pink and white mother of pearl w/ Swarovski crystals necklace

Guess who I was talking to on the phone? It is Isabel as she is getting new things from Chanel and calling me about which one should she pick. hehe.... I can't wait for her reveal.



I adore the old fashion look of my Chanel pump. :)


We are stepping in summer!!


My friend, Cathy's, boho hip style.



I didn't post my outfit yesterday since I was pretty beat up by couple doc. appointments. But it is a simply chic ensemble and I thought I'd just post the arrangement here. I would say I am pretty happy about every single piece I kept in my wardrobe and especially heels. I would try my best to recycle them for the longest time I could.

James Perse white V-neck shirt, Chris Benz blue distressed cropped shirt and zara Gray high waist and cuffed pants.
Lanvin happy sac and Chanel runway pink camellia sling back heels 08.

Match Every Color From Head To Toe of My Ensemble.

Neutral colors are fun this year.

You can either go super bright, bright colored ensemble or you can match every single piece in just one single color on you. I think I am up to that challenge next time.

I am inspired by striped shirts and I just realized that I wore horizontal shirt 3 days in a row. lol

My ODJ.

1. TOP:

• Emporium Armani gray/navy striped cap sleeves top
• H&M gray bustier
• Zara gray belted vest/tonic

2. Bottom: 3.1 Phillip lim black skinny pants w/ zipper at ankle
3. 2 sets of pairing:

• Chanel metallic navy reissue 227 08 pre-fall
• Orange Boss platform t-strap heels

• Chanel distressed white reissue 227 09 cruise
• Louis Vuitton suhali sling back sandals

4. Accessory:

• Chanel multi-sized pearls w/ rhinestone cc necklace 09 s/s
• Vintage Coro cameo earrings

Navy, w/o vest


Navy, w/ vest: I like to carry my bag as single chain on one shoulder for a retro look.


White, w/o vest


white, w/ vest

Carrie Ann Inaba wears NIKOLAKI (again!) on "Dancing With The Stars"!!

(Grecian) Hawaiian Goddess!!!!One Shoulder Empress: Carrie Ann Inaba critiques in NIKOLAKI gown on Dancing With The Stars

This week on ABC's Dancing With The Stars, we accomplished a NIKOLAKI first: Three gowns in two weeks on national TV! The gorgeous judge Carrie Ann Inaba (sorry Bruno) wore another one of our gowns on this week's Elimination Show. We were thrilled, surprised and ecstatic when we got an email saying that indeed the lovely Ms. Inaba would be wearing another one of our designs.
My design partner, David Paul has been away at the Staples Center attending the World Figure Skating Competition and I have had to helm the NIKOLAKI studio on my own (crazy thought!) and I rushed to hit the DVR/TiVo button--oh and tell everyone from here to Caracas Venezuela!. The DWTS Panel: Carrie Ann workin' her NIKOLAKI gown (from chest up!)

Carrie Ann chose an ivory silk jersey "Grecian Goddess" one-shoulder draped cowl gown with black silk-rayon Duchesse satin band (is that enough of a description for you guys?) and looked GORGEOUS in it! White looks REALLY good against her skin color. It goes without saying: We love you Carrie Ann!!!! Athena: Model Dominique in the ivory silk jersey one-shoulder gown worn by Carrie Ann Inaba

We got so many emails from friends and family who recognized the gown, but were bummed that not enough was shown--so here's the entire gown as it was shot for our Website Look Book on the equally beautiful 16 year old model, Dominique.
Click BELOW to view the elimination portion of this week's episode (and catch a glimpse of Carrie Ann Inaba wearing NIKOLAKI)

FOTD

I tried out a new look today. No winged eyeliner (gasp), just some on my upper waterline to make my lashes look a bit fuller, and a little smudged into my bottom lashes. What do you guys think? My eyelashes look longer, but I think I love the winged eyeliner look too much to give it up! hehe :)
I used a bourjois liquid metal eyeshadow as a base with retrospeck and mulch on top.

Bronze and Silver

Bronze and Silver look using
lilylolo bronze sparkle eyeshadow and silver GOSH eyeliner with lashings of L'Oreal Voluminous mascara :).

Randomly stumbling across a friend!

This week, well, even today is only Tuesday, must be the best week of catching up w/ old and new friends of mine ever!!!

My friend, Cathy and I took kids out for a walk in such a nice sunny day. While we wait at table for a delicious lunch, suddenly I heard someone calling my name so loudly!!!! I can't recall if I felt embarrassing as everyone must look at us!! :P It took me more than a couple sec. to recognize this virtual friend. :) I mean, we talked a lot on line. We know each other through a fashion blog called purseforum but never had the chance to meet. She is very young as she is still in college.

I am so surprised that I meet another new friend IRL. But I guess I was too exited to invite her to sit down w/ us. Well, I know, I don't want kids to ruin her first impression over bad table manners. haha.... But speaking of fashion, it is ageless!! Yes, our moms passion is fashion too!! haha.....

My ODJ.

1. TOP:

• Zara horizonal boat neck tonic top
• Miss Sixty washed white jean jacket

2. Bottom: Nicholas Zosea Shimmer techno skirt w/ pockets
3. Black leggings
4. Chanel black caviar mini flap
5. Shoes: Sergio Rossi red heels w/ wide black ankle straps
6. Wool hat

I have been looking for this hat since last year.


The buckles on heels are over arch not exactly on ankles which I love.


I love this hat can add this cool attitude to my outfit.


Kids are the best entertainments to each other!!


Here are my new friends, Wai and her friend. (not sure if I can post her name. haha..)