Light & Airy

Congratulations to all future brides! Check out the summer 2011 issue of Inside Weddings. The issue is full of  great summer gowns, wedding resources, inspirational testimonies, and styling tips to add finishing touches on your day.  

We are excited to see Alex Woo’s Narissa Cuff  featured in the “Jewelry Box” section. Inspired by the agile movements of the sea, the Narissa Cuff is placed on beautiful white petals to display the wave like patterns.

It looks amazing! This was a great addition to the “Light and Airy” story and a jewelry box item  that will last a lifetime.

Alex Woo’s jewelry has been delighting stylists, celebrities, and regular people like us.  She is probably best known for her trademark letter and number charms that can be mixed and matched, (as well as charms featuring small animals and other figures), which make the perfect everyday accessory.  But her offerings also include bolder styles and extend to rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces in different styles.  Her designs are inspired by her travels, as well as her native New York City.  She was named a Rising Star by the JCK Show Design Center and included in Crain’s Business’s “40 under 40” list of successful people in New York.  All of Woo’s designs are made right here in New York City.  We caught up with Woo recently to get to know her better…

ifashion: What is your favorite line to create, Spring or Fall?

Alex: My designs are classic and not really seasonal, however, I do enjoy designing my travel-inspired pieces because it’s a time that I can reflect upon a place I’ve visited, like Morocco, or Macchu Picchu.  Traveling is another passion of mine, and I like to reflect that through my work.

ifashion: Who is your favorite designer?

Alex: Diane Von Furstenberg.

ifashion: What personal quality do you believe is reflected in your work?

Alex: I was born and raised in New York City – and it’s an important part of who I am, so I wanted to make sure that my designs reflect the energy and vibrant aspect of this city as well.  I am very proud of the fact that my designs and jewelry are made in New York and I can continue to create opportunities to support local talent.

ifashion: Do you think a woman is sexier in sneakers or stilletos? Why?

Alex: Stilletos. Any shoe that elongates the leg makes a woman sexier.

ifashion: What is a tough lesson you have learned from being a designer?

Alex: Having your designs knocked off.  I’ve experienced this from both large chains as well as fellow designers that exhibit at the same shows that I do.  It’s really disheartening to see that especially from fellow designers given we’re all supposed to be original.

ifashion: Is there anything you would have done differently in your career so far?

Alex: No. I love what I do and the path I’m on.

ifashion: What was your most exciting moment as a designer?

Alex: Walking the Union Square market on a lazy Sunday morning and seeing for the first time, a stranger wearing one of my designs!

ifashion: Where do you see your line in 5 years?

Alex: Growing and expanding into new international markets.  We’re getting there already though and we continue to ship globally.  Today it was Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Russia!

 ifashion: Where do you feel you were most successful and where did you feel at a low point? 

Alex: Fortunately for me, this has been a very positive journey, and I think it can only get better.

 ifashion: What do you think is the most important fashion piece a woman should have and a man should have? Why?

Alex: Just as every woman may have their favorite LBD, a woman should have a signature necklace.  Everyone can wear a necklace, and I think it’s the perfect way to express yourself.

 ifashion: What item do you think is worth splurging on?

Alex: A diamond pendant.  Diamonds are always classic and looks great on everyone.

 ifashion: How long does it take you to create a collection?

Alex: It can take anywhere from 1 month to a year to develop.

 ifashion: Do you create your own drawings?

Alex: Yes – of course.  I have a background in fine arts, and drawing is something that I always go back to.

 ifashion: If you weren’t a designer what would you be?

Alex: A food and travel writer.  I love to travel and I love to eat!

 ifashion: What is your philosophy about the art of fashion?

Alex: Fashion is what you make of it.  I like to keep an eye on the trends of the moment, but no one should be limited by it or follow it blindly.  It is important to know what looks good on you, and my view has always been that classic pieces are always a good investment.

 ifashion: What is one piece I should have in my closet this fall and what color should it be?

Alex: A tailored black blazer – you can never go wrong with this classic.

 ifashion: In your opinion, what is the worst fashion faux pas a person can commit?

Alex: Leaving the house without at least 1 piece of jewelry!

 ifashion: What is your favorite article of clothing that you own?

Alex: My Karl Lagerfeld denim coat.

 ifashion: What advice would you give to someone getting into the fashion industry?

Alex: Have a distinct vision, and stay true to it.

We’ve always been a big fan of Alex Woo jewelry. We first featured her designs in 2003 when Audrey first arrived on the scene, and she’s been a regular within our pages since. 

She creates amazing designs, from simply bold to intricately minimalist. I especially love her Narissa collection (now in rose gold vermeil, my latest obsession!), with its organic/mosaic/faraway feel.

We love that she’s still going strong, and now she’s getting some serious celebrity love, too. 

The Korean girl band Girls’ Generation are sporting Alex Woo’s silver “9″ necklace. The nine-member pop group is mega big in Asia, and they have no shortage of fans on this side of the Pacific. 

My personal favorite from her icon collection is her “Little Princess” star earrings. A funky version of the classic diamond studs — I’d wear them anywhere! (Hint, hint!) 

Alex Woo’s latest project is a collaboration with Christina Applegate on a new design to fight breast cancer.  

The “Tree of Life” pendant represents harmony, hope and renewal, according to Alex, and each of the seven leaves serves as a reminder to live every day of the week to the fullest. Net proceeds go to Right Action for Women, a Christina Applegate Foundation, which encourages women to educate themselves about breast cancer and provides funding for the expensive MRI screenings that help in early detection. 

Alex’s mother passed away from breast cancer and since then the jewelry designer has been actively involved with a number of charities. She has a number of designs that benefit a variety of charities. – Posted by Anna M. Park in Audrey

Which Shakespeare character would you most like to play at the Public Theater’s summer gala?

“Definitely Kate in Taming of the Shrew. She’s so hotheaded and fierce,” responds Jane Krakowski.  The 30 Rock and Ally McBeal actress epitomizes glamour wearing Alex Woo’s dazzling Narissa earrings in sterling silver, at the star-studded event.

One of the top trends for 2009, brilliance comes full circle in this very sexy glamourous gold ring bandeau top bikini.

Alessandra Ambrosio, looking very much like one of the beautiful and prophetic Nereids that inspired Alex Woo’s Narissa collection, she sports the Narissa Cuff.  A dramatic touch for sand and sea.

TEX APPEAL – Accents for a way-out-West affair

What are the essentials for a successful Western Wedding?  The Global Guide suggests that all you need are a pair of ”Made for Walking” Durango cowboy boots, some Llano Fine Wine, Hanky Panky underwear and of course Alex Woo’s Little Luck horseshoe necklace with diamonds.

Susan Moynihan, the Editor in Chief of Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, is even photographed in the Summer edition of the magazine wearing Alex Woo’s large Narissa necklace in yellow gold.

All of the best 2009! Town & Country kicks off the new year exploring the very best in what’s new! What’s fresh! And what’s genuine! Covering the arts, fashion and culture, and bringing the best of everything to America’s trendsetters, each issue makes you feel like you’re holding a treasure and you risen to the crème de la crème.

Sterling approval – Delicate chains, woven hoops and fringed earring – a deft touch of silver adds just the right shine to your look. Listed as the first accessory is Alex Woo Narissa Fan earrings to add a special touch to any attire.

Cosmopolitan is the lifestylist and cheerleader for millions of fun, fearless females. Inspiring with information on relationships and romance, fashion and beauty, women’s health and well-being, as well as pop culture, entertainment and style, this month’s issue is no different.

Cosmo girls love a good dare, so we are offering one up: Push your style boundaries with these au courant dressing principles. They’re a little unconventional, but then, so are you.

Dare To wear… the skinny look in something other than jeans. Tank Tops $195 each, and pants, $415, Rose; shoes, Devi Kroell; Cuff, Alex Woo Narissa Sterling Silver Cuff adds a chic like to the all white attire.

Style Watch Special: Sneak Peek

CHRISTINA APPLEGATE
The Samantha Who? actress is a beach babe in her cover-up, Alex Woo earrings and oversized sunglasses as she shoots in Santa Monica.

Brief Biography: Christina Applegate was born on Thanksgiving Day, November 25th 1971 in Los Angeles, California. Making her acting debut in her mothers arms at three months of age, from that moment on, her future in acting was sealed. Particularly well-known for playing Kelly Bundy on the Fox television network sitcom Married… with Children, she has since established a successful film and television career and won an Emmy award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series.

Funny Girl

A magazine dedicated to fashion, entertainment and lifestyle for today’s trendsetters, this month they feature 25-year-old comedienne, Erin Fogel. Co-starring in the romantic comedy, 27 Dresses, with Katherine Heigl, the New Jersey native’s impeccable comic timing and knack for improv impressed director Anne Fletcher so much that she added scenes into the film to showcase Fogel’s talents.

944: When did you realize you were funny?

Erin Fogel: I feel like it always came naturally to me. When I was younger, I would make jokes that a lot of people my own age wouldn’t get. To me it was so funny, and no one else was laughing, except that all the adults wanted to do was talk to me and see what would come out of my mouth. And then, I also struggled socially when I was young. I was really heavy at the time — you know, baby fat and all that — and it became a means of defending myself, because it’s much better to be the funny girl than to be the fat girl. So I think I really, really strongly developed it as I was going through adolescence.

In the photo shoot, she wears Alex Woo’s Narissa necklace and earrings to impress everyone else.

Tiffany Koury, a former apprentice of Richard Tyler and a veteran equestrian of Lebanese descent from Pinehurst, North Carolina is making her mark on the fashion scene. Voted one of the Top 10 Designers to watch in 2006 by the Donegar Group, this southern belle turned New York City fashionista refined her skills at the Fashion Institute of Technology and has launched her eponymous line of dresses.

Every piece of Ms. Koury’s collection was designed to evoke the allure of the world’s most famous bombshells – from Grace Kelly to Marlene Dietrich. Accentuating feminine details and soft draping, her flirty fall line at fashion week included Alex Woo’s delicate Narissa Necklaces (Medium and Crescent) and Earrings.

(Fall 2007 / Spring 2008)

Based on the popular book series of the same name by Cecily von Ziegesar, this new drama from the CW gives viewers a peek into the world of privileged teenagers on an elite private school in New York City. Written by The O.C.’s Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, and directed by Mark Piznarski, the series stars Leighton Meester and Blake Lively as Blair and Serena respectively, rich Manhattan rivals at a private school in New York.

Considered one of the hottest new shows, rounding out the fine young cast is Taylor Momsen as Jenny, a freshman from Downtown Soho, who tries to fit in with the wealthy kids from New York’s Upper East side.

Gossip Girl Looks: In the episodes, watch Blair, Jenny, and Vanessa as they show off their own unique fashion sense and you will also spot Alex Woo jewelry. Blair’s look – very well thought out meticulous Americana with old Hollywood glamour has the Little Letter B and W (diamonds of course). While Jenny, free-spirited and ambitious, wears vintage clothing she creates herself with Alex Woo’s Little Question Mark or Little Princess Bow. Her background may keep her on the fringe of this exclusive clique, but her fashion taste and aspirations definitely do not! Not to be outdone, Jessica Szohr (Vanessa), can be seen wearing Woo’s Narissa Necklace. Alex Woo was also featured in Eric Daman’s Fashion Series Week 1 for Serena and Blair.

Blonde vs. Blonde. They were best friends – now they’re bitter enemies. What happened? People this week bring you the guide to TV’s nastiest feud. At the photo shoot, Heidi Montag wears Alex Woo’s Narissa Cuff.

Heidi Montag – Season 3 Cast Bio
On the surface, Heidi has everything she ever wanted: a prestigious job promoting parties in Hollywood, a boyfriend she adores in Spencer, a great apartment in the Hollywood Hills, and an engagement ring around the corner. With all of that, she’s still missing one thing: her best friend. Since Heidi moved in with Spencer, she hasn’t spoken to Lauren at all, and the rift is only getting bigger…

Lauren Conrad – Season 3 Cast Bio
Lauren has more to deal with this year than ever. She faces new pressures at work as she and Whitney prepare for their biggest challenge at Teen Vogue yet. She also has a new roommate and a new wing woman in Audrina, and the two of them are hitting the Hollywood dating scene in a big way. But Lauren’s past is never far behind…

Women’s Wear Daily features Alex Woo’s diamond and gold Narissa pendant as one of the classiest and most stylish pieces for the holdiay season!  The beautiful pendant is a jaw-dropper — as it’s definitely a statement piece.  The pave diamond accents and the delicate double-string chain add the additonal touches to this glamours and elegant pendant.

What’s Modern?  Adorned with diamond details or intricately scrolled gold, your wrist will arrest attention in one of these beautiful bracelets.

Former American Idol contestant and successful singer Katharine McPhee graces the cover of the June issue of Lucky magazine.

In the Lucky Summer Jewelry Guide, Alex Woo’s Narissa collection is highlighted. From the Narissa crescent necklace to the Narissa cuff, Lucky states “There’s so much detail in these airy gold pieces – each feels like a little work of art.” Additionally, the Narissa cuff is described as “an alluring, oversize cuff with a ravishing, goddessy vibe.

On the bottom left, Tara Mattmuller wears Alex Woo’s Dolce ring so she can still be professional, but stand out.

The most widely read magazine in America, Parade Magazine generally needs no introduction. With a circulation of 32 million, it began as a small publication and sold on newsstands for a nickel. Today, PARADE is carried by nearly 400 of the nation’s finest Sunday newspapers and reaches 74 million Americans every week who value it for the fun and information of Personality Parade and James Brady’s celebrity profiles.

In this week’s issue, the former Will & Grace star, Debra Messing, talks about her jump to the big screen, working in Australia on her new movie, The Starter Wife, and more. In the interview with James Brady, she reveals “It’s a dream part for an actress. But it also parallels my life in that, after eight years on Will & Grace, I’m starting over. When we wrapped our series last year, I asked myself, ‘What do I do now?’” After five Emmy nods, in this new movie, she leads the sexy, savvy and wickedly funny tour de force about life after divorce and one woman’s quest to redefine herself.

In the photo shoot by Timothy White, Debra Messing was photographed wearing a number of Alex Woo’s accessories from the Chiara earrings, Sienna bangles, Narissa Earrings, and Vida Pendant.

TWINKLE TOES

Vision of sugarplum fairies dance through designers’ heads this season, as tulle-trim jewels, satiny pink shoes, and other ballet-inspired confections debut for spring!

Along with the likes of Valentino and Vera Wang, Alex Woo’s gold vermeil Narissa crescent necklace is a very feminine piece that epitomizes classic elegance and beauty.