A Royal Hollywood Wedding: Jane Cha and R.J. Cutler in the Hollywood Hills!!!

A Wedding To Remember...

Say "Beautiful Wedding": David Paul, R.J. Cutler, Jane Cutler, Nick Verreos, Jimmy Nguyen and Karen Kwan-Oppegard

Well, following on my "Wedding Fest" (see previous posting), I thought, it would be perfect to write about a FABULOUS wedding I actually attended: Last month, my NIKOLAKI partner David Paul and I attended one of the most elegant--and fun--weddings we've ever been invited to (and very A-List to boot!).

Bridal Gorgeous: Jane Cha in her Monique Lhuillier wedding gown, with her father, walking down the aisle

The Bride: My very good friend, the gorgeous Jane Cha, Founder and Executive Vice President of Full Picture--and one of the executive producers of Project Runway (Yeayyy!!!). She wore a strapless silk organza and hand-embroidered wedding gown from LA-based Fashion Designer (and FIDM-alumni) Monique Lhuillier. Her hair and makeup were done by Uber Glam Squad Linda Hay and Michel Aleman. She even had an "outfit change" and wore a Christian Siriano (Winner of Season 4 Project Runway) gown for the reception.

The Groom: Well, kids, it was none other than R.J. Cutler. Yes, THE R.J. Cutler, Producer of "The War Room", "American High" and Director of "The September Issue", nominated for an Academy Award, won an Emmy as well as a Peabody! (I know, tell me about it!!!). He's also my "bearded brother...from another mother!", but that's another story.

Hollywood Hills Chuppah: The Wedding Ceremony Scene, Jane Cha-R.J. Cutler Wedding

Bridesmaid Boys: Michael Moore and Chad Rothman

Well, kids , they got married! Both David and I almost didn't make it, because we were supposed to show our collection at an event in San Diego--as well as make a special appearance--which was scheduled the same evening but it was suddenly canceled TWO DAYS before, and well, it was time for us to find something to wear...

Dinner Time: Nick Verreos enjoying the dinner service, Jane Cha-R.J. Cutler Wedding

The wedding occurred at R.J.'s beautiful home in the gorgeous Hollywood Hills. There was a Chuppah set up in the beautiful lawn of his home, where the ceremony took place. And the Dinner Reception that followed: On TOP of the sprawling pool! They covered the pool and set up many, many, many tables and transformed it into the most beautiful Wedding Dinner Banquet.

The Guest List: Miss Klum: Heidi wearing a dress from my line, NIKOLAKI *not what she wore at the wedding :)

Well kids, the one and only Heidi Klum (love her!) was there, and walked down the aisle in a very fitted Yves Saint Laurent "Le Smoking" black suit:

Heidi was the Numero Uno Bridesmaid at the Wedding of course! Her husband Seal was there of course, front row taking care of the kids, who were the "Flower Boys and Girls". The "Flower Girl"--Leni (Heidi's gorgeous daughter)--wore a custom dress designed and created by Jewelry Designer Courtney Prince Miller.

Now, speaking of Seal: He sang to the Bride and Groom! It was UNBELIEVABLE to A.) Hear Seal sing live (Hello!) and B.) Just to be there to witness it. My arm-hairs (and I have many, I'm half-Greek remember!) were standing up! All of Jane and RJ's guest were VIP: They included Full Picture Founder and President Desiree Gruber and her husband actor Kyle MacLachlan...

Dancing Queen: Elle Creative Director Joe Zee and the bride, Jane Cutler, wearing Christian Siriano rose-pink strapless gown (her outfit change!)

Elle Magazine Creative Director Joe Zee; Lory Johansson, who designed the interior--and exterior--of R.J.'s (and now Jane's as well!) home; David Kirsch, Victoria's Secret Supermodel celebrity trainer; actress Amy Brenneman and her husband; Director Brad Silberling; and President of Entertainment for Showtime David Nevins.

Posing Kids: David Paul, Nick Verreos, Jimmy Nguyen, Karen Kwan-Oppegard and Peter Oppergard

Also on hand were Karen Kwan-Oppegard and her husband, Peter Oppegard, Figure Skating ROYALS!!! So you know, we spent a lot of time DISHING about them figure skating costumes!!! Karen wore a slinky bias-cut dress. She looked fabulous of course, but I told her that next time, she needs to "Call Me" for a dress from our line if she ever has a "Figure Skating" Red Carpet event (LOL!!).

I wasn't the only Project Runway Alumn invited: The statuesque Laura Bennett (above with moi) Finalist from Season 3 (and my fellow MSN.com Style Studio expert) was also there!

Who Wants Cake: Bride and Groom exchanging cake

It truly was an amazing wedding! The entire night was perfect. From the ceremony to the dinner to the dancing and "midnight" pizza afterward: SUBLIME!!! All the food was by Jon Shook of Animal Restaurant fame. Thank you Jane and R.J. for allowing David and myself into your lives. We were truly honored to have been part of such a wonderful evening!

Congrats, Felicitaciones, Mazel Tov & Ch'u-k'a-dŭ-rim-ni-da! 축하드립니다!

Nick Verreos Attends "High Style: Betsy Bloomingdale and the Haute Couture"

Haute Couture Grand DameBetsy Bloomingdale, in a 1986 Marc Bohan for Dior Haute Couture gown, stands next to the Marc Bohan "Wall" at FIDM

The Event:
This last Saturday was the Black Tie Gala Opening of High Style Betsy Bloomingdale and the Haute Couture at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM Museum and Galleries. Curators Kevin Jones and Christina Johnson spent three years scouring the hallowed closets of one of the most celebrated Grande Dames of Fashion, Betsy Bloomingdale. The Exhibit spans over 30 years of Bloomingdale's love and admiration for Haute Couture and fine fashion, ranging from her first Couture purchases in the 1960s to her last one; a black silk crepe and chiffon from the late designer Gianfranco Ferre for Dior Couture. The Exhibit runs October 21st to December 13Th.

The Scene:Glittering Tent: The Scene at the High Style Betsy Bloomindale/Haute Couture Gala

The tented party, held at the Grand Hope Park, adjacent to the FIDM campus was elegantly decorated with crystal "Chandeliers" dangling from its ceiling and greeted the VIP guests as they entered the party. In addition, exquisite white chairs, tables, mini-sofas, several fully-stocked open bars and delicious hors d'oeuvres tables "announced" to the gown-and-tuxedo crowd that this would truly be a very special event.

Seen On The Scene: Mary Stephens and Nick Verreos, Betsy Bloomingdale/Haute Couture Exhibit Opening Gala

As soon as I arrived, I spotted Mary Stephens, Director of the FIDM Advanced Fashion Design/Debut Program, looking both elegant and modern in a black ensemble. I jumped up and down (literally!) when I saw my good friend Jane Cha, Executive Producer of Project Runway. Her date was the incredible R.J. Cutler, director of the Vogue documentary The September Issue. Jane Cha and R.J. Cutler, Betsy Bloomingdale/Haute Couture Exhibit Opening Gala

Also seen were Buzz Aldrin--the second person to set foot on the Moon back in 1969 and his beautiful wife Lois--as well as philanthropists Iris Cantor and Barbara Davis. I heard that many of Betsy Bloomingdale's family came out for this illustrious event, including her two sons and one daughter as well as her grandchildren. Buzz Aldrin and James Galanos, Betsy Bloomingdale/Haute Couture Exhibit Opening Gala

I got a quick glimpse of the star of the night, Betsy Bloomingdale, who was looking fabulous in an iridescent orange taffeta gown from Marc Bohan for the House of Dior. One of the many highlights of the night was when I recognized one of my fashion idols, designer James Galanos. Of course, I had to stop him and say "hello". That moment made my night!

The Couture:
Nick Verreos at the Betsy Bloomingdale/Haute Couture Exhibit, FIDM Museum and Galleries

By the time I made my way inside the exhibit, I had only about fifteen minutes to do a mini-tour (I had another event to attend, the Kevan Hall Spring 2010 Runway Show at Universal Studios). From what I saw, it made my arms tingle with excitement, I must say. All the "masters" were there: Christian Dior Haute Couture from designers Marc Bohan and Gianfranco Ferre, Galanos, Adolfo, Givenchy, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and others. There were video montages explaining the clothes, the art of Haute Couture and exclusive interviews with Monsieurs Givenchy, Bohan, Fracois Lesage and Bloomingdale herself. Even in my quick visit, I caught juicy "Couture Dish" from the videos like how Mrs. Bloomingdale and her Couture friends like Nan Kempner and Lynn Wyatt knew their importance within the Couture Houses and how their vendeuses (sales ladies) ALWAYS gave them "the right price". Love the dish!There is also an entire section devoted to the croquis (or sketches) from the design houses that were sent to Mrs. Bloomingdale after she had made her selections. As I was leaving, I spotted one of my favorite pieces in the exhibit: A canary yellow silk taffeta Dior Couture gown that was displayed with its inner corselette turned inside-out, so the viewer can see the stunning intricacy that really makes an Haute Couture gown (photo above). I will DEFINITELY have to return to see the exhibit with more patience. It deserves two hours if not more! It is a MUST SEE for anyone who loves fashion and the art of Haute Couture. Forget going to Paris, it's all in Downtown Los Angeles at the FIDM Museum and Galleries!

Nick Verreos says: Go See The September Issue!!!

The REAL Devil Wears Prada...As I reported back in June here on this lovely blog of mine--my friend Jane Cha, executive producer of Project Runway, and director RJ Cutler had invited me to a very special screening of a new documentary of his called The September Issue. Smilin' RJ: Director of "The September Issue" RJ Cutler, flanked by actress Sienna Miller and Bee Shaffer (Anna Wintour's daughter)

The movie, as you may now know, is all about Anna Wintour and the behind-the-scenes creation of Vogue's September Issue from two years ago with actress Sienna Miller on the cover. Without telling you too much, I was especially fascinated by how RJ captured the love-hate struggle of the documentaries two protagonists, fashion editor Grace Coddington (love her!), who seems to be the "Heart of Vogue" and Miss Anna Wintour (who is ALL BUZINESSS!!!). Editor and Cover Girl: Anna Wintour (giving you PRINTS!) and actress Sienna Miller

The Andre Leon Talley can't-live-without-his-Louis-Vuitton tennis playing scene was another highlight. It goes without saying that I loved it. Well kiddies, in case you've been living under a "Fashion Rock", it is September and the movie has arrived in Theaters in New York (It will be in Los Angeles and select cities on September 11) and it's received FANTASTIC reviews.
Bosom Buddies: Jane Cha, RJ Cutler, Kyle McLachlan and Desiree Gruber--all looking very chic!

My friend Jane, has been "traveling the world" as it were, along with RJ going to all the premieres--including London and NY. I know that RJ doesn't need my help in promoting---and touting the fabulousness--of his great movie, but alas, I will still say: Go See The September Issue, it's SOOOOOOO GOOD!!!.

Heidi's Halloween-Part TWO!!!!

Ghouls, Goblins, Ghosts and Britney?

If I was to sum up Halloween in Los Angeles it would come down to three things:
1. Traffic
2. Halloween Ho's and scary costumes and
3. Paparazzi Madness

Here's my recap of the night: I attended Heidi Klum's annual Halloween bash to do some "red carpet" "Uncle Nick" dishing (see below for link to the YouTube video) as well as to have some fun. I dressed up as an 18th Century Courtesan and David was a Vampire a la Anne Rice's "Interview With A Vampire". I wish I could say that I actually made my fabulous costume, but alas, I would be lying. I got it from one of Southern California's oldest costumes houses, Western Costumes.

It took more than an hour to drive from my Downtown Los Angeles Studio to Hollywood. It's only a 10 mile trip! Did I tell you how much I HATE LA traffic. You'd think we Angelenos would be used to it but it still shocks the nerves. Last night, stuck in that infamous traffic, I was struck with an uneasy urge to want to MOVE TO A QUIET FARM in KANSAS!!

Once in the Green Door club, we made our way past all the costumed attendees and immediately met up with my partner-in-fashion-crimes, Season 2 designer Raymundo Balthazar looking like he was just at Oil Can Harry's (if you live in LA, you'll understand). We also ran into Season 4 designer, Rami Kashou, looking quite ghoulish. We also saw Season 2 designer Santino Rice hanging out with Season 3 winner Jeffrey Sebelia. After what seemed like an eternity (traffic inside the club mirrored the traffic outside!), we finally made it to the cordoned-off "VIP" area, where Heidi Klum was. Heidi was decked out in her hand-painted ensemble, dressed as a sexy scary cat. I am not exaggerating when I say this: Her figure looked FLAWLESS! I want to know her secret, besides having a trainer and a cook at her beck and call 24 hours a day...

At the VIP lounge, we recognized Director Quentin Tarantino and were introduced to Seal's brother, who looked quiet scary, like an extra from "28 Days Later". Desperate Housewives actor Kyle McLahlan and his wife, Desiree Gruber were also hanging out in Heidi's VIP room. Kyle looked hilarious as a golfer-gone-wrong with a golf ball stuck on his forehead! Desiree was a sexy catburglar who had just stolen a priceless diamond ring. We also ran into several good friends including Jane Cha, dressed as Riyo Mori, Miss Universe. Her powder blue gown was a perfectly bad hybrid of a prom dress and a bridesmaid dress. My friend Chad looked cute and wholesome as a sailor. I just wanted to pinch his cheeks all night long! I even ran into an ORBIT GUM GIRL!!

From the VIP area, I could see all the party goers and their costumes and quickly made this observation: Why do grown, intelligent women use Halloween as a night to bring out their "inner Ho". What is that about? And when did this phenomenon begin to occur? It baffles me. Heidi was COVERED from head toe and yet, she was still THE SEXIEST WOMAN at the club. There were so many "Naughty Nurse", "Naughty Nun", "Naughty housewife", I wanted to douse them all with alcohol. I am by no means a prude, but all that naughtiness isn't really necessary ladies.

Speaking of INNER HO'S: All of a sudden there was this mad rush in the club and before we knew it, we find out Britney Spears had entered the club! The party went from a regular club atmosphere to sheer madness because Britney had arrived. It went from being "Heidi's Halloween" to "Britney's Halloween" in 2.2 seconds. Like witnessing a car wreck, we decided to venture outside of the VIP area to to see if we could catch a glimpse of Miss Spears and headed for the bar. There, we found Britney wearing some heart-shaped glasses and sporting what looked like a feather boa--along with her entourage 0f about 10 hangers-on as well as a bunch of her angry-looking bodyguards. Party guests were shoving and pushing just to get a glimpse of her. It was very surreal. In all this madness, we spot Heidi actually walking to this bar area where Britney was. They greeted each other, posed for photos and POOF! Heidi was gone. In my bitchy mind, I concocted a fantasy conversation which had Heidi saying "Let me show her whose party this really is...!" Soon after, Britney left and so did we. Outside as she departed, what ensued looked like something out of the last night of Princess Diana's life: About 15 cars dangerously raced and screeched right behind her while about 50 paparazzi ran (cameras in tow) to get photos and film of her as she sped away. It was one of the most surreal moments I have ever been a part of. It was the prefect crazy ending to a crazy-and scary night.

To watch my fun YouTube video at Heidi's Halloween 2007 Red Carpet, Click HERE

and HERE to watch the TMZ Video where TMZ caught all those Halloween Ho's, as well as myself waiting to get my car.