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Michael Andrews Bespoke

June 16, 2011 By Michael Russo | Leave a Comment

When it comes to weddings, women are not the only ones who have big decisions to make when choosing what to wear on the big day. Indeed, the groom’s tuxedo is every bit as important as the bride’s gown. Furthermore, while a bride will often spend astronomical amounts on a gown that she will only wear once, a well-made tuxedo is a must-have wardrobe essential that can be worn countless times without reservation — all the more reason for a groom to select a tuxedo that fits perfectly and comfortably. Discreetly tucked away in the NoHo district in New York City, but standing at a quite sizable 4200 square feet, Michael Andrews Bespoke specializes in custom tuxedos, suits, and accessories and is a must-visit for any groom-to-be. This elegant store outfits many of Manhattan’s most stylish men and offers an inimitable shopping experience, complete with personal consultations with the knowledgeable staff, in-store fittings, and maybe even a cocktail from the luxe built-in wet bar! The Michael Andrews Bespoke aesthetic is one that combines classic tailoring and craftsmanship with a contemporary fit, and the expert master tailors will work with your personal preferences and needs to create a tuxedo that’s uniquely and entirely yours.

To learn more about Michael Andrews Bespoke, be sure to visit the store’s website!

Michael Andrews Bespoke, 2 Great Jones Alley, New York, NY. 212.677.1755.

(all photos via Grungy Gentleman)

Ryan Haber Collection: Shoes that Tell Your Story

June 16, 2011 By Michael Russo | Leave a Comment

In the realm of shoe designers, there are a select few “Holy Grail” designers that most women can only aspire to claim a pair from, with Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik and Brian Atwood chief among them. With all due respect to these design demigods, there is a hot young newcomer who is, fittingly, close on their heels: Ryan Haber. Though he is relatively new to the scene — his first collection is set to debut this fall — many in the industry are positively abuzz over Ryan’s sexy yet chic designs. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Ryan embarked upon several career paths before discovering his passion for footwear, including architecture and interior design; these influences are apparent in his current work, as his shoes are beautifully constructed yet injected with unusual details, from a silver stud-bedecked toe to interesting cutouts. And, of course, each shoe isn’t complete without a vertiginous heel — the adage goes, “The higher the heel, the sexier the shoe,” and Ryan Haber certainly concurs!

Here are some sketches of Ryan’s upcoming creations (courtesy of the Ryan Haber Collection Facebook Page). Keep up with Ryan by following him on Twitter and Facebook…and remember, you heard it here first!

ryan haber collection 2011 shoes heels fall fashion design michael russo

The Knot Luxe List!

June 8, 2011 By Michael Russo | 14 Comments

Major news! I am so excited to announce that I have just been added to The Knot’s Luxe List! For those of you who don’t know, The Knot is the premier website for all things wedding-related. From venue and vendor picks to advice on decor, music and honeymoon destinations, The Knot is the ultimate source for any well-prepared bride (or groom!) to be. I am so honored to be listed among the incredibly talented individuals on the Luxe List, which is The Knot’s exclusive circle of top celebrity wedding and event designers. Check out some of my planning advice, a photo gallery of some of my work, a link to my Twitter feed, and an exclusive video interview by clicking the photo above or HERE! Thank you so much to The Knot for this amazing and special acknowledgment.

Celebrating Carmen Marc Valvo

May 23, 2011 By Michael Russo | 1 Comment

Last week, I attended an event held at Tamsen Z Boutique in New York City fêting the fantastic fashion designer Carmen Marc Valvo and his book, Dressed to Perfection: The Art of Dressing for Your Red Carpet Moments. At the intimate cocktail reception, guests sipped champagne and perused the stunning jewels on display, while rubbing elbows with the world-renowned designer and author and having their copies of the book signed. Speaking of the book, it’s an absolute must-read; in it, Carmen sheds light on how to look your best on various occasions, from informal gatherings to the chicest black-tie events, while incorporating your unique personal style. With Kate Winslet, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Beyonce, Katie Couric, Eva Longoria Parker, Queen Latifah, and Mary J. Blige among the A-listers that are fans of his amazing work, it’s clear that Carmen has a wealth of invaluable wisdom to pass along! Here’s a photo of myself and the man of the hour at the reception:

Wine Tasting at Jarvis Winery

May 23, 2011 By Michael Russo | 1 Comment

Recently, I had the distinct pleasure of touring the Jarvis Winery in Napa Valley, California, where the beautiful and unique setting can only be matched by the incredible wines.

The location is one of the aspects that makes Jarvis Winery such a magical experience. While most wineries are located right off of the highway, making them visible and accessible to every tourist driving by, Jarvis is literally hidden away in the mountains. The entire facility is held in 45,000 square feet of cave in the Vacas Mountains of the Napa region. Once you are buzzed in and instructed where to park, you enter the immense double doors into the side of a mountain. From there, you are taken on a tour which includes a ballroom, tasting library and underground waterfall. Imagine Disney World, meets Narnia, meets Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory…and just add wine! The tasting was, of course, the best part of the trip — Jarvis makes some of the best wine I’ve tasted, which is remarkable considering that one of the owners was born and raised in the “dry state” of Oklahoma. I left with wonderful pictures, wonderful wine and wonderful memories.

So excited to have arrived in Napa Valley!