Más Bellos Arrivals: Nick Verreos and Chica Orbit, Gustavino's NYC
I had a really fun time speaking on various subjects including why I was in Manhattan (to attend the FABULUSA Fiesta "50MásBellos" with La Chica Orbit) as well as talked about my clothing line, NIKOLAKI, and...
How my mom (above with my very dapper Diplomat Dad) and grandma and all Latina Women influence me...
Click Below for my Exclusive Video Interview with MyLatinoVoice.com:
Latin Designing: Latin Connection Texas, My Barbie and My NIKOLAKI Models...
Nick Verreos, on the cover of this month's Latin Connection Texas Magazine
Last month, Wayne Zamora, Editor-in-Chief of Latin Connection Texas Magazine, contacted me to do an Interview and an article on me, for the magazine, and of course, I said "SI!". And then, to my surprise, I made the cover! In the write-up, you can read about my "Early Years" in Caracas Venezuela, my love of 70's Flight Attendants, and being raised by FABULOUS Latina women--and my Greek dad. I'm honored to be in Latin Connection Texas Magazine and make the cover, especially since I have a close connection to Texas since my parents, sister and my niece and nephew all live there. And of course, not to mention the fact that I never met a BIG Texas BELT BUCKLE and Cowboy Boot I didn't like!! You can read the entire Latin Connection Magazine article HERE (go to page 6). Also: Mi Barbie y Mis Modelos (Translation: My Barbie and my Models)...
Sequins and Gold...Red! Fashion Designer Nick Verreos poses with Models Amanda Fields and Danika Thompson wearing NIKOLAKI gowns, FIDM Los Angeles Campus
In addition to being in Latin Connection Texas Magazine, EFE Newswire Service (Spanish-language version of A.P.) and EFEAmerica.com contacted me last week, wanting to do an interview that "would go around the Spanish-speaking world about myself--a story on a Latino Fashion Designer who "did muy bueno" and became successful in this industry. Again, naturally, I said "Si, por supuesto!".
Nick Verreos at the FIDM Museum & Galleries, "19Th Annual Art of Motion Picture Costume Design" Exhibition (photo courtesy of Ivan Mejia)
They also wanted to do a photoshoot that would accompany the piece--and what better place than my Alma Mater--and the College I am an Instructor and the Spokesperson for--the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM.
My Barbie! Nick Verreos shows off his "My Scene Project Runway Season 2 Barbie", FIDM Los Angeles Campus
I threw on my most fabulous red jacket (Hot Latin Color!) and gathered two of my favorite muses/models, the statuesque Amanda Fields and Danika Thompson, as well as brought them several of myNIKOLAKI gowns to try on for the shoot. The writer (and photographer) Ivan Mejia, had also asked me if I could bring "My Barbie"--the "Project Runway My Scene Barbie" I had designed (and was subsequently manufactured and sold at Toys 'R Us). He said that showing me with my Barbie would make for nice photos to go with the article.
Another Pose Por Favor: Posing with my models Amanda Fields (Left), Danika Thompson (Right) and my Assistant for the shoot, Jesse Jacobs at FIDM Los Angeles Campus
Well, in the midst of remembering to bring the gowns, getting myself ready and finishing up on my NIKOLAKI Studio work I was doing earlier in the day...I totally forgot to bring my Barbie! But, thank goodness someone at FIDM came to the rescue: Someone at the school HAD MY BARBIE in their office and they (very nicely) let us borrow it for the shoot. Yeayyy! for FIDM and Yeayyy! for having my Barbie!
Would You Like A Sleeve: Nick Verreos measures model Amanda Fields--in NIKOLAKI gown--at FIDM Los Angeles Campus(photo courtesy of Ivan Mejia)
Yep, She's Tiny: Nick Verreos measures model Danika Thompson--in NIKOLAKI gown--at FIDM Los AngelesCampus(photo courtesy of Ivan Mejia)
All of us--the models in my gowns, my "Project Runway Barbie", and myself--posed in front of the "Pink-tastic" FIDM Barbie 50Th Anniversary Display, which also features my other Barbie! I know...that's one too many Barbies in one paragraph!!! In the end, I had a great time doing the photoshoot and the interview for my Latinos.
*You can read the finished article: HERE on efeamerica.com
HERE to read it from the LA Opinion Newspaper and La Prensa NY Portal Website, impre.com And for All Time's Sake: Here's a quick video of my Winning Barbie Design on Season 2 Project Runway:
Talking Fashion, My Vision of the Ultra Feminine Woman, Teaching, my New Collection, and More...
Popping The Collar: Nick Verreos
Recently, I did an interview with writer Carina Calhoun for 944 Magazine's website 944.com. I had so much fun chatting with her on a wide range of topics, from how my own line NIKOLAKI--co-designed with David Paul--began, what my vision for making women ultra feminine is...
As well as discussed my love of teaching at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising/FIDM. In addition of course, I talked about my newest Spring 2011 NIKOLAKI Collection, which we recently debuted at the fabulous Style Week Orange County 2010, and one of my favorite projects from this past year:
Nick Verreos poses with the The Victory Project Experts: Chantal Moore (far left), Kacy Duke and Katherine Brooking (far right)
MSN.com's The Victory Project Sponsored by Special K, a web show where four Experts (including myself!) find four women in three different cities and help them with nutrition, exercise and after they've reached their "Victorious" goal, all four ladies are given a make-over complete with Hair, Makeup and a styling session with ME!
Nick Verreos at the Chicago taping of The Victory Project, with Jennifer at Cinnamon Boutique
I have a blast showing REAL WOMAN--ones that are not a size 4, how to find clothes that brings out their inner DIVAS! Speaking of Divas, the writer asked me who my "ideal" client would be; an actress I'd like to dress, let's just say. And I mentioned Spanish actress Penelope Cruz.
I love her acting, love how strong yet ultra feminine she is, and yes, love that she is from España! Now, I know that she loves Marchesa and since she is one of Harvey Weinstein's "muses", it's not a coincidence she wears a lot of his wife's designs. She also loves Ralph Lauren; a lot of Spanish socialites and actresses do too. But maybe, just maybe she should consider one of our NIKOLAKI gowns for her next red carpet awards appearance...who knows, a boy can dream right? Below are a couple of suggestions:
Infanta: Black silk taffeta fitted Mermaid-shape gown with hand beaded feather trim, NIKOLAKIby Nick Verreos/David Paul
Mint Blue Goddess: Strapless fitted gown with asymmetrical gathered detailing in silk zibeline, NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos/David Paul
Below is my Interview from 944.com:"Fearlessly Feminine Nick Verreos--On Making Women Want Top Work It" (love that title!)
From Project Runway to the red carpet, Nick Verreos has made a name for himself in the competitive fashion world by marking his territory with the stunning styles that make women feel fearlessly feminine. Showing the spring 2011 collection of his line Nikolaki at Orange County Style Week in October, Verreos took a few minutes to chat with 944 about making it in the industry and, as his former mentor, Project Runway’s Tim Gunn always says, making it work.
944: How would you describe your design philosophy or point of view?
Nick Verreos: It’s pretty simple. Just making women look and feel beautiful, and trying to bring out the inner goddess within them. I grew up with a group of women, and I just want them to feel ultra-feminine. I feel like I can give women that dress when they want to look like a princess or a diva.
944: When did the Nikolaki collection or concept begin?
NV: I worked for different companies as an assistant designer and pattern maker, and I paid my dues in the industry. I was still making dresses and gowns to fuel my creativity. I built up this closet full of dresses, and I would put on shows at a club here and there. In 2001, we got a showroom, and before I knew it, we were in 150 stores. My partner, David Paul, and I work great together. The name means “little Nick” in Greek, which is what my dad called me when I was young.
Click HERE for the entire article and to find out why I would LOVE to dress Spanish actress Penelope Cruz
Sitting Pretty: Nick Verreos and US Figure Skater Rachael Flatt
As many of you know by now, I have a personal love for Figure Skating which yes, was spurred on by my NIKOLAKI partner David Paul (who REALLY REALLY Loves Figure Skating). He and his "Skating Buddies" would watch the sport and I would just be the "Skating Wife" in the background. Well, of course, that all changed once I was on Season 2 Project Runway and I had to design a costume for Sasha Cohen. I was subsequently "infected" with the Figure Skating virus! Now, naturally I respect the athleticism and power of the sport but of course, I watch it for the COSTUMES!!!!
Drew Meekins with former pairs partner Jessica Rose Paetsch in 2008
Recently, I got a fun email from Writer/Illustrator and IceNetwork.com Contributor Sarah S. Brannen and American Pairs Figure Skater--and 2006 World Junior Champion-- Drew Meekinsrequesting an interview from me for "The Inside Edge with Sarah and Drew".
Besides being a great Children's Book Author and Illustrator, she is an avid fan of Figure Skating and has photographed the sport for years. Here are some samples of her work:
Johnny Weir at 2006 US Nationals
Sasha Cohen, 2006 Marshall's Challenge
Well, of course, I said YES YES and YES! I had a blast doing the interview and we talked about my love of Figure Skating, and my thoughts of various skater's costumes of course. Click HERE to read the entire interview.
Judging Dish Waiting For My Call Time: Nick Verreos in his Project Runway Judges Dressing Room
Last Friday after my "Guest Appearance" on this season of Project Runway, I did an interview with the wonderful people at MyLifetime.com for their Project Runway Blog. I speak about the "judging experience" (sitting next to Heidi and Nina was daunting!), the almost FOUR HOURS we spent deliberating, as well as my love of being an instructor at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM. I also speak of the reaction I got from the designers when we entered the "Runway Room" and which designer from Season Six would I ask to design something for me... Click HERE for the entire interview.
Recently, my favorite web boys,Tom and Lorenzo wanted to do an interview to get "all the inside dirt" on what really goes on to get your dress or gown on the Red carpet. Of course, I obliged, I got my coffee, set up a chair on my porch (why does it sound like I live in the backwoods of Arkansas?) and gave it to them! If you REALLY want to know what goes on behind the scenes of the "Red Carpet Game", then you'll be sure to read my interview.
D-List Buddies: Designer Nick Verreos and Kathy Griffin, in NIKOLAKI custom gown, Bravo A List Awards
Even David--my NIKOLAKI partner-in-crime--was surprised at how candid I was and how much information I gave. This industry tends to be secretive and not very willing to give out inside dish on what goes on "behind-the-scenes" but I was very open. I spoke about stylists; the pr agencies connection; the competition with the multi-million dollar conglomerates; how if you ever see one of my dresses on the red carpet, it's like winning the lottery. It's all there.
Check out the interview HERE and hope you have your notepad and get some valuable information. Next time, maybe people will think differently when asking "Why isn't Charlize Theron wearing your gowns...she would be PERRRRRFECT!!!!!!!"
Where Are They Now...Project Runway!I just did an interview with one of my favorite sites, OUT.com, about Project Runway, of course. And I guess I was not the only one--so did SEVENTEEN other Project Runway designers (I thought I was special--LOL!!). OUT.com is the web "sister" of the fabulous OUT Magazine and they wanted to know what we had been up to; what we were doing; who we thought the "favorite villain" (and no I didn't answer Santino!) was, as well as who our favorite Project Runway designers were. I especially love those photos used on the site--mine is just one of my Headshots. Yes, I know a bit cheesy. Rami's, well, he just looks smoldering! and Kenley, her photo is so sweet, you would never guess she was a kitty-throwing boyfriend-bashing (allegedly) cutie. I especially love Sweet P's photo. Hot. Hot. Hot!
Lovely Orchid: Nick Verreos at Downtown LA's Urth Cafe (photo courtesy of Alison Nieder)
Just in time for the new Lifetime Network's season premiere of Project Runway Season 6, here's the fun little interview I did for theCalifornia Apparel News' ApparelNews.Net "Trade Talk" blog:
The sixth season of “Project Runway” has not even aired yet (it’s scheduled to bow on its new home on Lifetime in August), and I’m already thinking about season 7.
That’s because I recently caught up with “Project Runway” alum—and recent ApparelNews.net guest blogger—Nick Verreos...............
Recently, Atlanta Georgia TV and web personality Tammie Reed of "Talking With Tami" interviewed me for her great "pinktastic" website and blog, TalkingWithTami.com. She's interviewed celebs from Usher, the Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson, to Garth Brooks. Oh, and now me. Love you Miss Tami and hope you liked my answers!
On the Carpet: Nick Verreos
TalkingWithTami: Hello Nick loved you on Project Runway! Since the show how has it changed your life? Hi Tammie, thank you so much! My life has changed dramatically since the show. I definitely have to put on my “fashion” seat belt and gotten ready for an unexpected ride!When I did the show, I was designing my line, had done several LA Fashion Weeks and was teaching at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising/FIDM here in LA.But immediately since being on the show, I began to get calls and emails about appearing on “Style Shows” and give red carpet commentary and be an “expert on E! and TV Guide Network, etc. Naturally I ran with it! I didn’t expect to–in addition to what I already do–to then have this new side life , but I love it and feel very comfortable doing it.Also, now more and more people have been exposed to my line, NIKOLAKI, and more stylists and publicists are requesting my gowns for their actress clients. So since the show, Academy Award winning actress Marlee Matlin has worn my gown to the Oscars, Heidi Klum on the Conan O’Brien Show, Kathy Griffin on the Bravo A List Awards, Tila Tequila on the MTV Movie Awards, actress Shelley Hennig at the Daytime Emmys, and so on.I’ve also recently begun meeting with various production companies about developing my own shows or hosting shows, which is very exciting to me. And I’m in talks with releasing my line on the web, so you can actually purchase my “red carpet gowns and dresses” on line–something on the line of “Demi Couture”–everything will be almost made-to-order. But everything is one step at a time of course.
Style Studio Barn Dance: Nick Verreos and his "girls" on the set of the MSN.com Style Studio
TalkingWithTami: Nick please tell us about your new show,Style Studio? I was so excited when I was asked to join the “Glam Squad” of hair, make-up and style experts for MSN.com and its Lifestyle section. It’s called “Style Studio” and I am one of the style and fashion experts. I give great advice to women all over the country on what to wear for occasions, 3-day weekends, how to accessorize, how to wear the trends of the season, etc.We film it in NY and I love doing it. It’s also an honor to be with the likes of Scoop Boutique creator, owner, and fashion icon, Stefani Greenfield as well as all the other experts. This is the Third Season that I am part of and we just launched it last week!
CLICK HERE for the rest of the interview! It's GOOOOOOD!!!!!
Nick Verreos: Un Diseñador con Glamour y Estilo!! (Translate that!)Nick In Spanish: Cover of the Fashion/Style News section, EGO Magazine, Puerto Rico
Months ago, I was approached by my esteemed friend, Hector Joaquin Gonzalez, whom I met officially back in November at the Bahamas Islands of The World Fashion Week (see photo below). Besides being the Pageant Coach/trainer of the Miss Bahamas Organization, and director and editor of the Critical Beauty and Hector Joaquin sites (which I read ALL THE TIME!!!), Hector is also a writer and reporter for EGO TV and EGO Magazine--a Puerto Rican-based publication with a huge following. Hector asked if I would do an interview for the upcoming April-May issue and of course, I did.San Juan Fierce: Cover of Ego Magazine, April-May Spring 2009 Edition
For the magazine's interview, Hector asked me tons of questions. They ranged from what my inspiration for designing is (art, music, 1930's-1950's Hollywood Glamour, my mom at Diplomatic soirees), how I got started (lots of schooling, formal training and about 15 years in the industry), how do I define my line, NIKOLAKI (Glamorous, sexy, Defined Femininity) as well as my opinion on (US First Lady) Michelle Obama's style (fabulous, would love to dress her, if only I could find an email to her "Social Secretary/Fashion Adviser").Oh, and did I mention it's all in Spanish? Yes, kiddies, I can even do interviews in Spanish! The magazine looks fabulous and is out on Puerto Rican and Miami newsstands, naturally. The article and interview turned out great. He even included great photos of myself, my model Lisa Blades in a chic sequined one shoulder gown from my most recent collection, and me on the TV Guide Network's Fashion Wraps With Lisa Rinna panel. Thanks Hector for the fun interview and congratulations on the issue and I wish you much continued success. I love your blogs and will continue to be a fan of you and EGO as well. Maybe one of these days, I will come to Puerto Rico---maybe to host or judge a "San Juan Project Runway Party and Design Contest"! Now that would be a blast!
Here's an interview I did with Model Girls Magazine, a web/blog site devoted to Models, Make Up, Hollywood Actresses and all things in between...Nick Verreos Clings to his devoted Model Form
Click HERE for the entire fun (and informative) interview.
Trench Coat Posing: (L to R) Rosa V. Alonso Founder and CEO, MyLatinoVoice.com and Nick Verreos, NYC
Más Bellos Arrivals: Nick Verreos and Chica Orbit, Gustavino's NYC
How my mom (above with my very dapper Diplomat Dad) and grandma and all Latina Women influence me...
