New York Fashion Week The Shows

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, a global leader and innovator in the luxury sphere, known for its world-class service and unforgettable experiences, today announced a first-time sponsorship with IMG for New York Fashion Week: The Shows, Sept. 9-13. In addition to participating in a curated NYFW: The Talks produced by IMG, renowned fashion house Proenza Schouler, founded by designer duo Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, will present a look inspired by the Waldorf Astoria woman further positioning the award-winning hospitality brand at the forefront of innovation and at the crux of culture and fashion.

A highlight of the NYFW experience, each season IMG produces NYFW: The Talks, a thoughtfully-curated series of intimate chats and panel discussions featuring renowned fashion designers and industry leaders. This year's attendees can take part in a salon-style talk titled "From Destinations to Design: Travel's Influence on Fashion" featuring panelists Dino Michael, senior vice president and global head, Hilton Luxury Brands, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler, and moderator Jacqui Gifford. NYFW: The Talks will take place on Sunday, Sept. 10, at 4 p.m. at Spring Studios.

VIP guests of NYFW 2023 can also enjoy visiting the Waldorf Astoria branded lounge throughout the week at Spring Studios for an elevated beverage experience, offering signature cocktails featured at Peacock Alley, a hallmark at Waldorf Astoria properties across the globe, and light canapés, with seating and decor reflective of the brand's signature refined aesthetic.

To round out the collaboration, Proenza Schouler will present a look inspired by the Waldorf Astoria woman in the brand's Spring/Summer 2024 runway show. Additionally, the designers will design a limited-edition throw blanket exclusively for NYFW: The Shows VIP guests. As Proenza Schouler's first luxury hotel brand partnership, the collaboration will showcase a fusion of high fashion with the luxury hotel brand's refined, sophisticated style.

"As Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts embarks on this exciting partnership with IMG for NYFW 2023, I'm confident we will contribute to the larger conversation surrounding the worlds of fashion and hospitality in a truly remarkable and meaningful way," said Dino Michael, senior vice president and global head, Hilton Luxury Brands. "I personally can't wait to see how Proenza Schouler interprets Waldorf Astoria's timeless elegance on the runway, and I'm equally excited to take part in the NYFW: The Talks to further showcase how Waldorf Astoria is a global pillar of culture and sophistication."

This collaboration marks a milestone for both Waldorf Astoria and Proenza Schouler, as they merge their expertise and creativity to create a one-of-a-kind experience for fashion and travel enthusiasts alike, all while weaving together their shared values of elegance, authenticity, and inclusion.

"Waldorf Astoria is an iconic brand and symbol of luxury, and we were thrilled to create this partnership between Waldorf Astoria and Proenza Schouler this season," said Kim Fasting Berg, EVP of Marketing, WME Fashion. "The worlds of travel, hospitality and fashion are inextricably linked, and we couldn't think of a better foray into fashion than NYFW: The Shows.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts on this special collaborative project that brings together our shared sensibilities and our mutual commitment to luxury while exploring Waldorf Astoria's iconic heritage through the prism of our very own Proenza Schouler language," said Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler.

With the combined creativity, expertise, and vision of Waldorf Astoria, IMG, and Proenza Schouler, NYFW 2023 is set to be an unforgettable event that pushes boundaries and sets new standards for luxury and style. The array of exclusive experiences promises to be a celebration of artistry, sophistication and the vibrant spirit of those who love fashion.

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising nearly 7,300 properties and more than 1.1 million rooms, in 123 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, earned a top spot on Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For list and been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for six consecutive years. Hilton has introduced several industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 165 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is a portfolio of more than 30 iconic properties that creates a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to elegant service, one-of-a-kind experiences and culinary expertise in landmark destinations around the world. Inspired by their timeless environments and sincerely elegant service, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver an effortless experience seamlessly, creating a true sense of place for guests through stunning architecture, iconic Peacock Alley, refined art collections and elevated in-room amenities. In addition to the brand's world-class hotel offerings, Waldorf Astoria boasts a global residential portfolio that provides the comfort of a private home combined with unsurpassed amenities and high-touch service. Waldorf Astoria is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Experience an unforgettable stay at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts by booking at waldorfastoria.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria, and follow the brand on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About IMG

IMG is a global leader in sports, fashion, events and media. The company manages some of the world's greatest athletes and fashion icons; owns and operates hundreds of live events annually; and is a leading independent producer and distributor of sports and entertainment media. IMG also specializes in licensing, sports training, and league development. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.

About Proenza Schouler

Proenza Schouler is a New York based womenswear and accessories brand founded in 2002 by designers Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. The duo met while studying at Parsons School of Design, eventually collaborating on their senior thesis which became their first collection as Proenza Schouler. Named after the designers' mothers' maiden names, the collection was bought in its entirety by Barneys New York. Proenza Schouler makes luxury fashion for the intelligent, adult, urban woman of today. Their collections are generally defined by Jack and Lazaro's use of fine, luxury materials, consistently infused with a marked sense of effortlessness and ease. Proenza Schouler has played an important role in reinvigorating American fashion. The brand won the inaugural CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund Award, and has won five CFDA Awards, including Accessory Designer of the Year and Womenswear Designer of the Year. Proenza Schouler has a flagship boutique located at 121 Greene Street in New York and is sold in over 350 doors worldwide.

Iconic Cristina Ferrare on Living Cookbook

Legible Inc., a global digital reading platform known for its innovative eBook and audiobook offerings, announces a unique collaboration with Cristina Ferrare, an iconic supermodel, acclaimed TV host, and New York Times bestselling author. Ferrare recently signed with Iconic Focus, a top New York modeling agency. The partnership introduces My Model Kitchen, a series of interactive "Living Cookbooks" that blend Ferrare’s culinary expertise with Legible’s cutting-edge digital technology.

My Model Kitchen is a culinary journey that combines Ferrare’s rich Italian heritage with her flair for modern cooking. The series starts with pasta, and will unfold into categories including appetizers, soups, salads, and more, reflecting traditional recipes from Cristina’s mother's native Liguria and her father's Neapolitan roots. Ferrare brings each dish to life with “troppo amore” (Italian for “too much love”), providing insights on selecting the right ingredients like authentic San Marzano tomatoes and high-quality semolina flour pasta.

Embedded with original video content, the Living Cookbooks will allow readers to virtually cook alongside Ferrare, creating an immersive experience that brings the essence of Italian cooking into homes worldwide. Available for purchase, and to Legible Unbound members on Legible’s platform, the series is designed to offer an engaging, personal connection with Ferrare as she shares her culinary secrets, family stories, and professional tips. Legible Unbound allows unlimited access to a vast curated catalogue of audiobooks and eBooks for $12.99 a month, and includes global productions and exclusive content - sign up at legible.com.

Kaleeg Hainsworth, CEO of Legible, expressed excitement about the collaboration. "Partnering with Cristina Ferrare, an inspirational personality celebrated in both the culinary and fashion worlds, is a proud moment for Legible. Our Living Cookbook series is set to expand digital culinary literature, offering an interactive cooking experience that will resonate with food lovers globally. Food is love made edible, and there is no one better than Cristina Ferrare to help bring both into the world."

Cristina Ferrare shares her enthusiasm for the project: "I am delighted to bring My Model Kitchen to life with Legible. This platform allows me to share the recipes I hold dear and the stories behind them in an innovative, interactive way. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with my audience on a deeper level, inviting them into my kitchen and my world."

The first book in the My Model Kitchen series is scheduled for release in early this 2024, promising to be a staple for those passionate about Italian cuisine and interactive culinary experiences.

Young Fashion Designers Contest 2023

Asia's leading fashion event CENTRESTAGE (Hong Kong International Fashion Showcase), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), with Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)* as the Lead Sponsor, concluded successfully on 9 September. The grand finale of the event was the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest 2023 (YDC), where 10 Hong Kong designers showcased inspiration and creativity in their collections, adopting a variety of styles. Their performance was in line with the Everything is Inspiration theme this year and highlighted the infinite possibilities Hong Kong's fashion-design industry presents. Celebrities Kay Tse, Ansonbean, Lagchun, Jamie Zhang, Indie band The Hertz, Sabrina Ng, Michael Chu, Rachel Leung, Natalie Ho, Wyllis Lam and CK Wong from STRAYZ, Carmina Lo, model Pete, rope skipper Pak Hung Cheung, stylist Ivan Lui and host Brian Chan attended the event.

The panel of professional judges selected winners from shortlisted entries, and Jason Ying emerged as champion and Best Visual Presentation Award winner, receiving a cash prize and one-month internship at self-portrait studio, sponsored by Fang Brothers Knitting Ltd.

The winners at YDC 2023 are as follows:

Champion and Best Visual Presentation Award: Jason Ying; Design: Holometabolism

Excellence Award: Johnson Chong; Design: Last Chance Hiking With My Mum

My Favourite Collection Award: Tiger Chung; Design: Whispers From The Nomad - A Folk Horror Tale

Jason Ying graduated from the Queensland University of Technology in Australia two years ago and has been working for a year to perfect his skills in pattern marking and sewing. He is obsessed with structure and form and has incorporated his curiosity for deconstruction and metamorphosis into his creations. In his exploration and imagination of the differences between humans and other species, he attempts to construct the diversity of evolution by using silhouettes, detailed joints and colours. Describing his win, he said: "It's so amazing. I still can't believe it. It feels like I'm in a dream. I want to keep working hard but still need to think about what the next step will be."

Heavyweight judges offer valuable feedback to YDC participants

This year's YDC featured a prestigious panel of judges comprising esteemed figures from the fashion industry and media. The heavyweight judging panel included Katherine Fang, Chairlady of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council's Garment Advisory Committee, who served as the Chief Judge. Other guest judges included Han Chong, Founder and Creative Director of self-portrait; Yu Masui, a fashion journalist and digital content creator; Victoria Tang-Owen, Founder and Creative Director of Thirty30 Creative and Victoria Tang Studio; Jonathan Lee, a brand strategy consultant; Cherry Mui, Fashion Director of Tatler Asia; and Jimmy Chan, APAC Head of Commercial at Goxip Group. Han Chong said: "My favourite moment is to see so many young talents in one place." Yu Masui shared his opinion: "Everyone has a unique style."

The Hertz performed with MINI x Wilsonkaki Collection

MINI Hong Kong continues its partnership as lead sponsor for the seventh consecutive year. MINI HK collaborated with Wilson Yip. His design brand, Wilsonkaki Spring/Summer 2024 collection showcased the MINI's incorporation of sustainability, love and inclusivity. The latest collection showcased at Tokyo Fashion Week. The Hertz performed their new song live for the first time on the runway of Wilsonkaki SS2024 collection.

For the first time, YDC is collaborating with CASETiFY to infuse the inspiration of the 10 shortlisted designers into limited-edition commemorative products of CASETiFY accessories. The four competition winners will also have the opportunity to collaborate with CASETiFY to launch an artist accessories collection, extending their designs to phone accessories. Through this collaboration, local fashion designers will be showcased on a broader stage. The collection will be available for public purchase from 9 October on the official website and all CASETiFY STUDiO stores in Hong Kong. By presenting the YDC performance ticket on the day of the event, customers can enjoy a 15% discount on a purchase at any store (terms and conditions apply).

The 39th vOilah! French Film Festival - Nov 2023

Mark your calendars from 9th to 21st November 2023 as the vOilah! French Film Festival returns in Singapore, boasting its biggest lineup yet. With a curation of 38 films that capture the essence of French cinema, the 39th edition promises an unforgettable journey through the realms of cinematic storytelling. Film enthusiasts can immerse in a diverse array of genres catering to every cinematic palate, from thought-provoking documentaries to thrilling blockbusters, including 16 family-friendly titles presented with a younger audience in mind.

"The vOilah! French Film Festival, deeply embedded in Singapore's cultural landscape as the longest running foreign film festival here, continues to celebrate the enduring success of the bilateral relations between both nations", said the Ambassador of France to Singapore, Ms Minh-Di Tang. "This year, we are also enthusiastic about showcasing a thoughtfully curated selection of truly captivating stories that spotlight pressing environmental issues. Through these films, we aim to foster essential dialogues about our environment, inspiring positive change."

Shining a Light on Environmental Issues

In a significant stride towards global awareness, the 39th edition of the vOilah! French Film Festival is taking a bold initiative to promote environmental consciousness — a cause that resonates deeply with audiences in both France and Singapore. A dedicated segment will spotlight this critical issue, aiming to raise awareness and spark important conversations about climate change.

The festival kicks off with the highly anticipated The Animal Kingdom (Le Règne Animal), directed by Thomas Cailley. Premiering as the opening film of the esteemed Un Certain Regard section at the 76th Cannes Film Festival, this compelling tale stars Roman Duris, Paul Kircher, and Adele Exarchopoulos. Following the journey of protagonist François and his son Emile, the film unfolds in a world besieged by a mysterious plague that mutates humans into animals. This dystopian tale serves as a powerful metaphor, depicting a world ravaged by humanity's actions.

"We are deeply honoured to renew our partnership with the Embassy of France for the 39th edition of the vOilah! French Film Festival, enabling us to once again bring the latest French films to the wider audience through our theatres," shared Christopher Shaw, Senior Vice-president at Shaw Organisation. "This year, our added focus on environmental issues demonstrates that cinema serves as a powerful medium for sparking vital conversations and driving meaningful change."

Other key screenings in the segment include Vibrant (Vivant) by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, a documentary exploring France's biodiversity, and Acid by Just Philippot, a thrilling tale of survival amidst a deadly acid storm.

Celebrating French Film Excellence

Highlighting the pinnacle of French cinema, the festival will present The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan (Les Trois Mousquetaires: D'Artagnan), a box-office sensation directed by Martin Bourboulon. Adapted from Alexandre Dumas' classic novel, this film marks the first chapter of a two-part epic saga. Boasting a stellar ensemble including Eva Green, Vincent Cassel, and François Civil, Pïo Marmai and Romain Duris, the movie promises a riveting experience for thrill-seeking movie fans.

A series of acclaimed motion pictures ensues with Anatomy of a Fall, the recipient of the Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or, which delves into the aftermath of a mysterious death, weaving a captivating crime mystery around Sandra and her visually impaired son. Directed by Justine Triet, the film unravels a web of uncertainties, where a turbulent marriage takes centre stage in a court trial. Another title to look out for is The Taste of Things (La Passion de Dodin-Bouffant), chosen to represent France in the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards, which captures the enchanting romance between Dodin, a renowned gourmet, and her devoted cook, Eugenie. The film is directed by Tran Ang Hung, who won Best Director at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

Bringing French Cinema to Everyone

To make French cinema accessible to all, the festival will renew its long partnership with People's Association to host ten free screenings of family-friendly titles across 7 community clubs and integrated hubs island-wide. Audiences can look forward to catching titles such as Samuel Tourneux's 2021 animated film Around the World in 80 Days and Calamity, a Childhood of Martha Jane Cannary, which won the Cristal for a Feature Film at the 2020 Annecy International Animated Film Festival. With a focus on inclusivity, most of the screenings have been dubbed in English to ensure an enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages.

The festival expands its horizons with 5 outdoor screenings at Sentosa from 10th to 12th November. These complimentary screenings, a part of Sentosa's Movies by the Beach outdoor cinema series, will be complemented by a French-themed Sentosa Festive Market by Sunday Social Market. Beach goers can catch titles such as Aline, the Voice of Love, The Jungle Bunch and Belle and Sebastien: Next Generation against the picturesque backdrop of Sentosa's Palawan Beach.

Anthony Chen, Singaporean filmmaker and Patron of this year's vOilah! French Film Festival says, "Films are windows to diverse worlds, and it is crucial that good films are accessible to everyone. The French Embassy's mission to bring the magic of French cinema to the masses is not just a matter of entertainment, it's a celebration of shared stories and collective experiences."

The festival also renews its partnership with iconic local independent cinema, The Projector. In conjunction with the 39th vOilah! French Film Festival, The Projector will hold a Cannes 2023 Festival focus showcasing films such as the Palme d'or winner Anatomy of a Fall by Justine Triet, Kaouther Ben Hania's riveting docu-drama Four Daughters, the highly anticipated The Book of Solutions by Michel Gondry and animated sci-fi feature Mars Express directed by Jérémie Périn.

The Projector will also present "Je t'aime, Jane", a retrospective in memory of the late French actress, singer and fashion icon, Jane Birkin. The feature will include screenings of Jacques Deray's 1969 The Swimming Pool (La Piscine) and Jane B. for Agnès V, a 1988 experimental documentary directed by Agnes Varda.

Welcoming the Stars of French Cinema

The vOilah! French Film Festival is delighted to announce the esteemed presence of director Thomas Cailley and rising star Paul Kircher, who will grace an exclusive Q&A session after the debut screening of their film, The Animal Kingdom (Le Règne Animal), at Shaw Theaters Lido on 10th November and at Alliance Française de Singapour on 11th November.

Vincent Perez, the director of The Edge of the Blade (Une Affaire d'Honneur), a captivating period piece exploring duelling and honour, will be accompanied by his partner and screenwriter, Karine Silla to present their film ahead of its French release, on 19th November at Shaw Theatres Lido and on 20th November at Alliance Française de Singapour. Audiences can look forward to an insightful discussion with the pair after the film.

On the heels of their multiple wins at the recent Margritte Awards, directors Emmanuel Marre and Julie Lecoustre will also be in town to present Zero F*cks Given (Rien à Foutre), a comedy-drama about a blasé flight attendant forced to confront her past. Audiences can look forward to a Q&A session with the pair at Alliance Française de Singapour on 21st November.

Join Us at the 39th French Film Festival

Prepare for an unforgettable cinematic experience as the 39th French Film Festival takes Singapore by storm. Embrace the magic of French cinema, indulge in compelling narratives, and join us in celebrating the art of storytelling on the silver screen. For more information on the vOilah! French Film Festival 2023, please refer to voilah.sg.