BUILDING AN EMPIRE: RYAN HABER COLLECTION

They say Rome wasn't built in a day, and this is true, but with the Roman Empire being one of the strongest in history, there are many lessons that can be learned. Italy is known for the best in fashion, footwear, and food. Ryan Haber is emersing himself in everything Italy has to offer, Ryan Haber, is an American luxury women's footwear designer. He is building his empire as he arrives in Italia to design his Spring/Summer 2012 collection. His mantra is "What's your Story", and it's true every moment, experience, or event is just another sentence, paragraph, or chapter on our journey. I met Ryan a few months ago via our favorite social networking site, Twitter and the sparks ignited. His passion is sole-deep (lol) and his determination is endless. Our partnership has already been a very rewarding one. I've gotten interest from Adam Glassman from Oprah asking for a press kit, Nina Garcia at Marie Claire curious about the samples, and even Robbie Williams' wife wanting a pair, there is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Louboutin is gonna have a lil competition. Looks like there are alot of people who are wanting to join Ryan on his journey, . . .and why not take this journey in the sexiest heels you can find!

Interwining his love of architecture and his love of what he considers to be the sexiest part of a woman's body, her feet, it was only natural that Haber design shoes. This "Ladies' Man" knows what women want and is determined to show the world and women alike, exactly what belongs on their beautifully pedicured feet. After getting some hands-on experience working for Steve Madden and BCBG, he was able to take that knowledge and harness it into something new, fresh, and edgy.

Want to know how Ryan's Italian adventure goes?? Follow him on Twitter.com/RyanHaber. But just so you can see what our fav guy is getting into, . . .here are a few of the things that he has gotten into the past 24 hrs. Italy's culture is to Love Life. As an Italian, we are taught to value the important things in life- fun, family, and food! Looks like Ryan is embracing the culture just fine, . . .

Salute! Here's to Ryan's Italian Adventure!

For Press Inquiries, please email me: toni@ryanhabercollection.com. Be on the look out for his lookbook, press, and debut at NYFW in the fall! Here's to steppin' to the beat of our own drummer. Visit http://www.ryanhabercollection.com/!

MEL B.'s SHOE FETISH

When I got the invitation to Mel B.'s charity shoe design workshop for ShoeDazzle.com, I knew I couldn't pass it up. After all, Posh shouldn't be the only former Spice Girl who gets to be a fashion designer! The chic mom chose an organization close to her heart, the L.A. Children's Hospital and Ronald McDonald House, to receive 100% of the profits from her shoe's proceeds.


I arrived just in time to join a group of press in the Teen Lounge of the L.A. Children's Hospital, and my eyes immediately went to Mel B. The celeb was radiant in a body-hugging mini and killer nude platforms. Young teens from the hospital had gathered around Mel and piped in with their design input. One girl after my own heart suggested a smattering of rhinestones on the heel, and one thoughtful young man mentioned the shoe should be cushioned on the inside so their feet don't hurt. A sparkly stiletto that's comfortable too? You can sign me up now.

After everyone put in their two cents, the final sketch revealed, "a classic shoe that will go with anything." The jewel-studded nude number is so versatile that, "You can wear them with jeans or with a red carpet hot dress," said Mel. And when questioned about the shoe's towering height, the superstar replied, "It's got to be a high shoe. Every girl looks better in heels and they're gonna' make your legs look fab." When we receive our pair from ShoeDazzle.com in March, we're going to hold you to that, Mel!