Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York

Vanity Fair: Is it Really Only for White People?

2010-03-09T21:22:44Z

Vanity Fair Covers March 2010 (T) and June 1917 (B) 96 years later

The issue of race in America has been a hot topic long before Martin Luther King Jr.’s infamous speech, I Have a Dream.” Speaking to millions on the Lincoln Memorial, he profoundly spoke about the urgency for equality. With the election of Barack Obama thought to be the beginning of a post-racialism in the 21^st century, this issue is even more poignant.

March’s cover issue of Vanity Fair sparked a heated debate on Yahoo’s Shine Site, wondering why the cover story of “New Hollywood” only depicted white up and coming actors. As opinions on this matter vary one Yahoo user furiously explained so what! “If BET or some other entertainment related business, magazine and so on did an article or show and it was only about Blacks or Hispanics or Asians there would no uproar from anyone. So what if Vanity Fair put a bunch of white girls on their cover. . . All these PC people need to take a break from their soap boxes.”

]]> As an African-American woman, the lack of relative role models in the media has been limited since before I can remember. Although the cover story didn’t spark extreme emotion I just attribute it to my immunity to living in a “white world.” Instead of uplifting the accomplishments of African- Americans mainstream media choose to glorify the negative images of this community that always seem to make the 6:00 o’clock news. In the wake of Tiger Wood’s sexual scandal, his 2006 photo shoot turned into a headlining cover story for Vanity Fair’s February issue, while break-out star Gabourey Sidibe’s extraordinary accomplishments were shuffled among the many pages of the publication the following month.

As specific television networks and magazine publications target certain ethnic groups, it may be fair to say that Vanity Fair should re-title as Fair’s Vanity.

Why We Love Emily Armenta Jewelry

2010-03-09T16:28:55Z

Inspiration is a funny thing. Designers at New York Fashion Week have been inspired by everything from Chinese zodiac (Vivienne Tam) to globe trotters (Elie Tahari). Jewelry designer Emily Armenta is no different. Her inspiration is Federico Garcia Lorca, a Spanish poet, known for his dramatic and passionate works.

Her duende collection is taken from the Spanish people’s name for Lorca. Duende is interpreted as a mystical concept with no definable definition. It can be “felt in the pulse of flamenco, in the wailings of lost lovers, and in the expression of unleashed passion.” And Emily’s jewelry line Armenta, captures this sentiment perfectly.

]]> It’s a blend of Spanish history and Emily’s Texas background that creates a vintage inspired collection with an updated rock and roll edge. Emily combines mixed metals, including oxidized silver and yellow to create a passionate collection reminiscent of Lorca’s profound poetry. Armenta jewelry is available at Neiman Marcus, as well as online at Ylang 23 and Judith Ann Jewels. Pieces begin at $1,200 but are well worth the craftsmanship and design.

We’re digging the old world moonstone and diamond ring, as it reminds us of Lorca’s poem “Romance de la Luna, Luna, Luna.” The opening lines “The moon comes to the forge, in her creamy-white petticoat,” brings to mind the mystical moonstone bling that can only be described as inspirational.

Photo Credit: Oster Jewelers

Fashion Designer Christian Louboutin Co-Brands with Barbie

2010-03-05T18:13:16Z

I’m sitting at my desk wondering if there is anything more exciting than catching the reflection of your red-soled shoe in the mirror. Or shop window. Any reflective surface will do really. A river of crimson-colored pure confidence runs through you; as brazen as scarlet lipstick and as classic as ruby-lacquered nails. In the last few years Christian Louboutin heels have become very popular with celebrities and socialites, when a lady lifts her ankle to take a delicate step and reveals that glossy hue, you know she’s a star. When wearing, this precious feeling of playing dress-up takes us back, reminiscing about raiding Mommy’s wardrobe and kitting-out our dollies in their ‘Sunday Best’. So imagine our delight when we discovered that Mr. Louboutin had combined the two. Collaborating with the nation’s favorite fashionista, Barbie, the celebrated French designer has created the must-have collectors’ items of the decade. ‘Cat Burglar Barbie’ was Louboutin’s first offering to the eagerly-awaiting connoisseurs and received critical acclaim. Coming soon is ‘Dolly Forever Barbie’ styled head-to-toe in season-appropriate chic outfits that consist of a khaki tunic dress and, most importantly, purple fringed boots. Sources say the new girl goes on sale in early March, I’m guessing to coincide with her birthday on the 9^th. That’s only 5 days away; count down with me sisters…Image courtesy of dailymail.co.uk

Spa Buzz Returns to Pierce Mattie

2010-03-05T16:02:39Z

Pierce Mattie is excited to host June's Spa Buzz networking party in Times Square.

Who is invited?

Executive spa professionals currently working in the tri-state area
Cosmetic manufacturers of established brands
Beauty/lifestyle press (must have credentials)

Why attend:

Network for career growth
Test and learn about dozens of new and exciting beauty products and spa treatments
Meet the PR team at Pierce Mattie
Get motivated
The swag bag is packed with tons of treats
Pierce Mattie’s copy of the Cosmetic Forecast, our trend report for 2011
For the food and drinks and to have a good time

When: Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at 5:00 to 8:00PM

Where: Pierce Mattie's Media Oasis - 62 West 45th Street, Third Floor, New York, NY 10036

Attendance is complimentary to the press and spa professionals. Those that work for a brand are asked to pay a nominal fee to cover expenses. Please contact marianne@thespabuzz.com for pricing.

RSVP by: May 26, 2010 to Pierce@PierceMattie.com Space is Limited!

(please note this event is not for PR professionals or event planners)

Kate Somerville's Complexion Perfection!: Your Ultimate Guide to Beautiful Skin by Hollywood's Leading Skin Health Expert

2010-03-04T16:11:15Z

Skin expert Kate Somerville, a favorite among celebrities, is rewriting the steps to perfect skin. Widely known for her medical skin care clinic, Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts, Kate’s skincare reputation, as well as her product line, is considered top notch in the beauty industry.

Her latest PR venture is her book “Complexion Perfection!: Your Ultimate Guide to Beautiful Skin by Hollywoods Leading Skin Health Expert,” which brings her skincare philosophy to a wider, more general audience. The book devolves the affects of harsh chemical treatments on skin and offers a variety of home remedies to bring your skin to perfection. She suggests an aspirin facial to revitalize skin. It seems unusual, but because it’s Kate Sommerville, we’re willing to believe it’ll work.

]]> As well, the book focuses on other factors that tend to affect the skin, including stress and environment. She also promotes her famous “Skin Pyramid” approach, which includes protecting, hydrating, stimulating, feeding and detoxing your skin as a way to create the ultimate complexion. Kate’s scientific approach gives us the facts under the skin and makes us think twice about what we’re actually doing to our skin.

The hardback book filled with bright, vivid pictures also chronicles Kate’s client makeovers, as well as make-up and general beauty tips. It comes across as part practical, part gimmicky but we’re intrigued enough to give Kate a shot.

Have you read Kate’s new book?

Selene Yeager's Ride Your Way Lean: The Ultimate Plan for Burning Fat and Getting on a Bike

2010-03-03T16:26:12Z

It’s as easy as riding a bike. Or that’s what Selene Yeager, author of the upcoming book “Ride Your Way Lean: The Ultimate Plan for Burning Fat and Getting on a Bike” is banking on. The fitness book brings readers a weight-loss plan that centers around biking.

Yeager, nicknamed the Fit Chick, is no stranger to bikes. She’s the author of “Every Woman's Guide to Cycling: Everything You Need to Know, From Buying Your First Bike to Winning Your First Race,” as well as a columnist for “Bicycle” magazine. The fitness program, which includes eating reasonably (good-bye mini cupcakes), could help readers lose up to 100 pounds just by pedaling.

]]> Biking can help users burn fat, streamline their bodies and is easy on joints. We’re all for Yeager’s enthusiastic approach to weight loss, especially since she suggests biking with a friend. The book also offers expert cycling advice from the pros and stories from everyday cyclists, not to mention healthy eating tips and an easy-to-follow work out plan.

With spin classes all the rage at gyms across the nation, why not take it outside onto the open road? Grab a yellow shirt, and it will make each workout feel like the Tour de France.

Bernardo - The Summer Favorite

2010-03-03T16:21:23Z

A summer staple that has been worn by everyone from Jackie O to Jennifer Garner, Bernardo shoes continue to remain a fan favorite. Known for their classic Miami sandal, an Italian leather thong sandal with a knotted center, Bernardo has been making a shoe statement since 1947.

Worn often in the ‘60s and ‘70s, the Miami style was classically paired with Lilly Pulitzer sundress. The company brought back the revered style and celebrities and shoe lovers alike have brought the Miami back to mainstream popularity. And if shoes aren’t enough, Bernardo also offers handbags and accessories to complete your effortless look.

]]> Over the years, the company has adapted their styles to popular trends. Metal rings, flower detailing, braided straps, gladiator styles, as well as jewels and stones have popped up on the beloved brand. We're loving the elegance on the crystal-detail thong sandal, which is available at Neiman Marcus. The dressier sandal adds a spark of shine that would be the perfect accomplice to a maxi dress. Even the Miami has been updated and is now available in over 20 colors, including the ever-popular metallics.

Available at Nordstrom and Piperlime among other mainstream retailers, the chic shoes are priced from $89. Bernardo’s are a time-tested way to stay on trend, as well as to show off your perfectly pedicured toes. You know what they say, if the shoe fits, buy it in every color.

House of Delvaux w/ Hettie Judah & Veronique Pouillard

2010-03-02T16:15:53Z

Is there more to Belgium than beer, chocolate or waffles? Apparently so and a new book, “Delvaux: 180 years of Belgian Luxury” is out to prove that there is plenty more. Delvaux, the book’s focus, is a luxury fine leather company located in Brussels, Belgium that's been making its mark on the fashion world.

Since 1829, the House of Delvaux has been producing high-quality handcrafted handbags, wallets and accessories making it the oldest of its kinda in the world. Often compared to Hermes, the distinguished brand makes classic, elegant bags that continue to command attention from the elite.

]]> We love how classic and chic the brand has remained throughout the years. Delvaux doesn’t flash a logo or symbol across their bags; it’s an understated approach, just simple, poignant detailing of a “D” on the buckle. In recent years, the company has also expanded to include upscale jewelry and scarves.

The book’s authors, Hettie Judah and Veronique Pouillard, have combined their fashion and writing skills to delve into the Delvaux world. Hettie, an international writer who is currently editor at Belgium’s “Word Magazine” and Veronique, a history of fashion researcher, are able to fully explain Delvaux’s hold over the luxury market. It’s an interesting read, especially for American consumers who may not be as familiar with the brand.

The intriguing story shows the evolution of the brand, as well as a behind-the-scenes look of the intricate crafting of the handbag itself. The craftsmanship of Delvaux bags is like no other; each item is handmade with crafting traditions passed down from generation to generation. In fact, some of the tools used are handmade, as they are so specific to designing the look of the Delvaux bag.

Delvaux has stores in Belgium, Japan and Russia. But don’t fret, they also are available through the company’s E-shop, meaning you can have enjoy your Delvaux bag, while enjoying your favorite Belgian delicacies too.

Lifestyle Marketing: Will Toyota's PR Crisis Give Hyundai an Edge in the Auto Market?

2010-03-01T15:00:06Z

I recall when Hyundai first entered the auto market here in the U.S. back in 1986. Both of my parents went out and purchased one due to its affordability (where are the days when you could buy a brand new car for $5K?) For years, Hyundai wasn't necessarily known for quality, not in the way Toyota has been branded at least, but the auto maker quickly became profitable making many in the automotive industry take notice and giving it staying power.

Previously, I would've only considered Kia to be their closest competitor (until they bought them out), yet with Toyota's recent PR Crisis over their massive recall and Hyundai ramping up production and an advertising blitz, Hyundai is beginning to emerge as real competition to the auto giant. Has Toyota's recall finally given Hyundai the opportunity to get an edge up on the brand? From a PR standpoint, my opinion is yes.

]]> For years we've been watching the transformation and re-branding of Hyundai. From their investment in design and safety for their vehicles to the introduction of their 10-year/100,000-mile warranty (which caused other auto makers to follow suit), Hyundai has been ambitious in garnering positive PR.

What's really gotten my attention has been Hyundai's ability to remain affordable yet bring a piece of luxury to an audience where a Lexus or BMW may be out of their price range. The new look of the Sonata and the debut of the Hyundai Equus has those in the market for a new car (or deciding to trade in their Toyota's) giving Hyundai a second look. This should cause concern for Toyota (and Honda), even despite Hyundai's recent recall of their new Sonata.

What do you think? Will 2010 be the year we'll see Hyundai on Edmund's Top 10 Best-Selling list? Better yet, will they outsell Toyota?

Why We Love Naked & Famous Denim

2010-02-25T16:24:10Z

Everybody wants to be naked and famous. Or so the Presidents of the United States of America belt out in their 90s rock hit. The song’s lyrics speak truth about our obsession with celebrities and fame and now a Canadian denim brand has borrowed the phrase to label their jeans with. Naked & Famous Denim is about high quality, not pricetag or which celebrity was recently seen strutting their stuff in their label. Even their 1950‘s pop-art inspired logo plays homage to the satire of mass media/celebrities. ]]> The jeans are made of Japanese selvage denim. Raw and unwashed, it’s less likely to fray. It takes months to wear them in due to their heavier, basic form. There's not an acid wash version, let alone washes at all. The jeans are created to be in their purest form of denim. While selvage denim has become more mainstream in the past few years (J. Crew and Gap now both offer selvage), solely unique to Naked & Famous is silk denim. This one of a kind jean is 30% silk. How soft would a pair of jeans infused with silk be? Practically irresistible.

The brand offers three mens fits (skinny, slim and tapered) and four womens (skinny, slim, boot cut and trouser). We’re particularly smitten with the men’s tapered fit, WeirdGuy, in indigo. It’s the perfect blend of modern and functional, with the color being dark enough to go out in or to throw on a t-shirt with.

The women's skinny fit is right on cue, especially the indigo power stretch style. Tight fitting but made to stretch, this high-quality denim narrows to a tight opening around the leg, perfect for booties or a pair of knee-high boots. The brand is sold mostly through online retailers in the United States (Revolve Clothing, Neiman Marcus, Tobi). But with it’s reasonable premium denim price tags (jeans range from $120-150), we’re positive Naked & Famous Denim will be making it’s way across America, even to, yes, celebrities.

Cosmetic Safety w/ Siobhan O'Connor & Alexandra Spunt

2010-02-24T15:58:07Z

There’s something in your nail polish besides a sassy red color. And it could hurt you. Every day, were all guilty of using products that contain chemicals we know nothing about besides their long (unpronounceable) scientific name. Now authors Siobhan O'Connor and Alexandra Spunt are looking to change that. The goal of their new book, “No More Dirty Looks: How to End Your Addiction to Chemical Cosmetics (And Still Look Hot), is to keep consumers looking beautiful— and safe.

The book sprang to life when the two authors received a hair treatment they loved, until they discovered the secret ingredient was formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, is the same chemical used as an embalming agent. The two were shocked and sought out to discover what’s actually in our beauty products.

]]> And we’re so glad they did. With the help of medical, scientific and other industry experts, “No More Dirty Looks” features the safest products available to consumers. It also lists numerous home recipes, perfect for cleansing our chemical-ridden beauty lifestyles.

Not only that the book seems especially relevant our the green-obsessed world. Available in July, we’re looking forward to saving the Earth and our health, one beauty product at a time.

Pierce Mattie PR Client Butter London Nails Fashion Week: Vena Cava, Jen Kao & Betsey Johnson

2010-02-19T13:49:03Z

New York Fashion Week was very pleased to have butter LONDON provide the high-quality manicure to the models wearing many upscale designer’s, showcasing their Fall 2010 collection. For this year’s show, butter LONDON decided to create a customized color for Vena Cava which featured the brands look for the season. The lacquer was named Marrow to correlate to the story behind the label of Vena Cava. Marrow is a mixture of a bold grape and earthy wine color. The recipe for this sharp color consisted of using some of the brand’s classic colors of the deep blood Red of La Moss as the base, added with Union Jack Black and Royal Navy to get the defined purple pigment, followed by Pearly Queen for an extra glow. This year’s collection is geared towards a confident, independent woman with sheik style. This look went perfectly with Marrow’s image of the “eccentric Manhattanite gal going to her country house for a weekend get-away”. The idea behind this year’s nails was to have rock n roll nails over vampire nails. Dark nails are out ladies and gents! It’s all about having clean- cut short nails with the catwalk coat of a little glitter.

One of the biggest trends for winter 2010 nails is adding different textures such as glitter or a matte finish on top of what you are already wearing. Zanna Roberts from Marie Claire was so curious about the trend for this upcoming winter. It’s all about adding an extra glow to your finger tips, making your outfit absolutely complete. Some of the backstage trends that were spotted were neon hair extension streaks, going with MAC’s neon red and hot pink lipsticks on the models. We’re back to the 70’s with big lips, rosy cheeks, smoky eyes, hair pulled tightly back, pale skin is in and bronzer is out. Even the high end fashion editors that came to the show demonstrated these new beauty trends. It’s all about wearing subtle colors of clothing with the contrast of big hair and bright makeup. Talk about sexy!

Tea with the Queen was inspired by Jen Kao’s clean- cut fall collection. The nails this year were kept short and sweet to go with the collection’s sheer, quiet colors. Tea with the Queen is a French pink, sheer peachy color which is just what all these expensive Manhattanites are looking for to go on their nails. Get ready for the Hamptons girls! What is great about this color is that it looks fantastic on both plain skin color as well as exotic skins. The shoe trend for this year’s show was open- toe boots so butter went with having clean and tight toes for the model’s pedicure. You can’t go wrong with having sexy, pretty and perfect toes. Now us girls know exactly finishing touches for the perfect ensemble for a night out on the town. Come on now we all want to be dressed from head to toe with sheik and trendy style.

It’s Betsey herself at New York Fashion week! Butter London was thrilled to do Kelley Osborne’s nails with of course her dog Syd right on her lap. Betsey decided that she wanted all her models to look like they didn’t have a manicure. This year’s fall 2010 collection was a western theme so butter used their one and only Fash Pack lacquer color. Fash Pack is a dusty beige color which matched the look of the girls dancing down the hay- stack runway with a sexy and strong attitude. Betsey was all about her girls having the “messy look” with wearing her fun, crazy clothes. It was a very shocking choice of color for Betsey since everyone is use to her signature look of hot pink. Oh well, she wanted something new and refreshing this year. Celebs Celebs Everywhere! The turnout was outrageous with some of the finest stars such as Melissa Joan-Heart, Gossip Girl’s most handsome Rufus Humphrey, Mathew Settle and Kelly Osbourne.

The Publicity of the FlipFlop

2010-02-18T14:56:13Z

Ah, the endless battle of working out. Part of the struggle is forcing yourself to head to the gym. It’s crowded, we’re lazy, the excuses are endless. But alas, there’s a new fitness product on the market is aimed at us who want to be fit but avoid the gym.

Meet FitFlop. A sandal that works out your legs while you walk, it’s created with expert technology that literally tones your leg, calf and glut areas just by walking. The sandals also claim to improve posture (good-bye middle school scoliosis), develop muscle tone, as well as relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, chronic back pain and heel spurs among other benefits. The shoe also helps imitate the natural act of walking barefoot, though with more muscle load.

]]> With hundreds of testimonials on the company website, as well as the widespread availability of the sandal (available online at Amazon, Piperlime, Macy’s, the list goes on and on), it seems that footwear is becoming as multi-functional as cell phones. Offered in both men's and women's sizes, the shoe ranges from $30-$150. Brands such as K-Mart and Reebok, who introduced its Easytone sneaker this past year, are jumping aboard the shoe fitness craze as well.

Our main qualm is the styling. It’s more flop than flip. More specifically, the sandal won’t add to your shoe wardrobe.They’re made in hundreds of colors, with embellishments galore, but the trend status is nothing to put in Vogue about. They’re walking sandals, and ultimately, that’s what they resemble (think Birkenstock, Mephisto).

The company did, however, recently branch out and create FitFlop boot style, including a limited edition Anna Sui version, available on Net-A-Porter. This make us think there’s plenty of potential for creating great legs in every type of shoe.

What do you think... are these the shoes of the future? Or are they just a flop?

Pierce Mattie's Fashion PR Presentation: Miguel Antoinne at Fashion Week

2010-02-16T16:57:10Z

The finest in the fashion industry flocked to Pierce Mattie’s Media Oasis to bear witness to a crucial step in the evolution of a sartorial star. Over February 11^th and 12^thMiguel Antoinne, who has been blessing us with his menswear designs for four seasons, presented his strongest collection yet: Autumn/Winter 10. A treasured client of Pierce Mattie PR’s, Miguel’s new line was as eagerly anticipated by us as it was by the press. With bated breath we waited, and a pre-show visit to his showroom did not disappoint.

All hands on deck arrived early to steam fabrics, dress mannequins, and set the lighting to reflect the sleek masculinity of the collection. As the presentation drew nearer, no brows furrowed with concern about the adverse weather conditions affecting attendance – so strong was our belief in both Miguel and his creations.

Antoinne designed a collection on the edge; intended for the bad-boy gentleman. Inspired by the shadows that play off moon-lit industrial elements; colors are dark and sensual; a rich palette consisting of blacks, grays, browns and midnight navy with a faint hint of Bordeaux. Fabric finishes swing from matte to a subtle sheen with an impressive use of coated linen and Nappa leather. Depending on whom you asked, and there were many positive opinions flying around, the stand out piece was the distressed knit with cobweb detailing…or the cotton modal pants, tapered with cuffed bottoms…or…you get the picture. Complements were dished out like candy for Miguel’s take on layering; elongated shirts paired with cropped jackets, the contrast heightened by the use of opposing textures and clever color–blocking.

Self-assured yet humble, Antoinne exudes a quiet confidence in posture and appearance. No doubt aided by how sharp he looks adorning his own designs. Editors from top books and blogs, Another Magazine, GQ, Maxim, Nylon, offered praise and promised support. As Friday drifted into President’s Day weekend, laudatory remarks rang through the city streets to confirm Miguel as one of Manhattan’s most loved menswear designers.

If for some incomprehensible reason you were prevented from coming along, we suggest you plan ahead for Spring/Summer 11. Trust me; nobody wants to be that person devoid of a ticket to the hottest show in town. All hail Miguel Antoinne.

Why Saint Barthélemy aka St. Bart's Remains Our Favorite

2010-02-15T17:26:30Z

With the snowpocalypse bogging down much of the Northeast in the last few weeks, dreaming about a tropical destination is the only way we’re getting through this winter. White sandy beaches, crystal blue water and temperatures above freezing? We’re in.

The much talked about Saint Barthélemy aka St. Bart’s still remains one of our favorite island retreats. Celebrities and socialites alike continue to flock to St. Bart’s for secluded getaways. Stylist Rachel Zoe tweeted about this paradise while vacationing on the island this winter. Beyonce and Jay-Z have been seen cruising on yachts.

Naturally, the draw to St. Bart’s is the island itself. With an temperatures hovering around perfect all year round, the prospect of Vitamin D is enough to book a flight. A walk down St. Jean Beach promises beautiful scenery and people watching to die for. It also means photo shoots. Victoria’s Secrets recently shot on St. Bart’s, bringing supermodels and their celebrity boyfriends to the island.

]]> Exclusivity remains the main appeal for many visitors. The lack of tourist means that celebrities can truly relax when they visit St. Bart’s (besides the pesky paparazzi zooming in from afar). The majority of the island’s accommodations are privately owned villas and with limited accommodations the island has become the premiere destination for privacy seeking celebrities.

And in case the beach isn’t enough, the island has plenty of shopping to keep you busy. Calypso, now a NYC staple, has a location on the island. And check out The House for upscale antique findings.

It’s trendy, exclusive and there's not a snowflake in sight. What’s not to love?