Nick Appearance Minute: Nick Hosts Macy's Miami International Mall "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge": The Recap!

Bienvenido a Miami!!!

Peachy Nick: Nick Verreos hosts Macy's "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" Spring 2012, Miami International Mall

Over the weekend, I flew out to Miami to host a fun event for Macy's at the Miami International Mall. In the past, I've traveled to many cities to host these in-store events for Macy's--including Miami--so I was happy to be back! The event, entitled "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" incorporates a Spring/Summer 2012 fashion show showing all the trends of the season to help customers get Style Ready for the season.

Pink Carpet Ready: Nick Verreos hosting the Macy's Miami International Mall "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" event

In addition, there's also a "Contest", where customers get to play "Stylist for a Day" and dress models using clothes from Macy's for specific challenges ("What would you wear to an Office Interview", for example). And they have to do this in TWO MINUTES (yowsah!). Then, the models change into these outfits, come back out and the public/customers vote (by hootin' and hollerin') on which Stylist For a Day did a better job. The overall winner receives a $100 Macy's Gift Card!!

Macy's Miami International Mall "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" stage and runway

Upon arriving to the Miami International Mall Macy's, I went straight to the area where I would be MC'ing this fun event. The stage looked SUPER fab--and so did the bright pink carpet runway and audience chairs and "goodies" on them! Speaking of goodies...

Sweets for Nick

Waiting for me in the Macy's "Green Room" where these yummy cookies (notice the "Macy's Red Star" ones!) for me to have while I studied my note cards to host the event. The great Macy's staff even got me some really strong Cuban coffee, a "Cortadito", which is pre-sweetened espresso with steamed milk. So, now I was READY!!! (and probably would be up until next Wednesday for that matter!).

Swimsuit Host: Nick Verreos flanked by his Macy's Models (Left to Right), Aleman, Lauren, Ariana, April (above Nick) and Vila, Macy's Miami International Mall

I began the event by welcoming the audience in both Spanish and English--it's MIAMI after all--and then went right into a Spring/Summer 2012 Bathing Beauties Fashion Show showing all the latest in swimwear available at Macy's on our fabulous models Aleman, Vila, Ariana, April and Lauren.

Swimsuit Shot: Model Ariana modeling latest in swimwear styles for Spring/Summer 2012, Macy's Miami International Mall

Suit Runway: Here's a shot of the "Work Scene" runway segment, where I introduced "Office-appropriate" styles during my "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" event, Macy's Miami International Mall--this fashion segment coincided with one of the challenges I gave for the "Macy's Fashion Challenge" contest, "What Would You Wear for a Job Interview".

Grecian Goddess Trend: Nick Verreos describes a Spring/Summer 2012 Prom Trend, Macy's Miami International Mall "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" event

We also had an "Evening Affair" segment--which again, coincided with one of the "Fashion Challenges" in the competition: "What Would You Wear to an Evening Gala, Prom, Red Carpet Awards Event". Here, I showed the latest styles in "Dress Up" gowns and dresses...

It's 'Prom Season" and well, if you want a prom dress--head to Macy's and especially the Miami International Mall Macy's (if you're in South Florida), because as you can see from the photo above, their department is stocked!!!

Pageant Gals: Nick Verreos does his best "Bevelled Pageant Pose" with "Miss Coconut Grove USA 2012" Ariana Vila (left) and "Miss South Miami Teen USA 2012" Lauren Hernandez (right)--they were two of my models and well, naturally I had to "Pageant Pose" with them!!!

Buenos Aires winner: Nick Verreos poses with the Winner of the "Macy's Fashion Challenge Spring/Summer 2012", who received a $100 Macy's Gift Card to shop with. The lovely girl (on the left in jeans) was from Argentina and a big Project Runway "Nick" fan (LOVE HER!!) and she did really well in styling her final challenge of "How To Dress For a Girl's Night Out". Felicitaciones to her!!! As you can see from her big ol' smile, she was REALLY happy!!!

After the event and fashion show were over, I took time to do a "Meet & Greet" and take photos with the attendees and customers. I really had an absolute BLAST hosting the event and especially meeting everyone afterward.

Marlene Mercado and Nick Verreos, Macy's Miami International Mall "Find Your Magic: Fashion Challenge" event

One of my favorite moments was meeting Marlene Mercado, who came with her mom and she shared the fact that both her and her mom were HUGE "Nick" fans and yes, she told me that "I should've won my season". I told her that I felt as if I did :)

But soon, it was time for me to head off to the Miami International Airport to catch my flight back to Los Angeles. Yes, it's sad when you have to come to Miami and do an "in-and-out"--no South Beach, no palm trees, no pool time (Don't Cry For Me Argentina...I mean, Miami!!!).

But...once inside the Miami International Airport American Airlines terminal, I HAD to head over to "La Carreta" Cuban Cuisine Restaurant and get some to-go for my flight. What did I get:

A chicken empanada of course! And don't you worry, it did not stink up the plane--I have better sense than to bring stinky McDonald's inside a plane unlike some other people....
Thanks Miami, Macy's and Miami International Mall for a FABULOSO event and for reminding me how much I miss and LOVE Miami---oh, and thanks "La Carreta" for that delicious empanada. Almost better than those American Airlines warm nuts...

Nick Appearance Minute: Nick Verreos, National Wear Red Day Go Red For Women Dash Macy's Herald Square--Recap Part Two!!

Go Red Day!!!!--Recap Part Two:

Nick Verreos Macy's Herald Square NYC, National Wear Red Day Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash

And now, here is my "Part Two", and final recap of my time in NYC last week working for Macy's and the American Heart Association to help raise awareness of heart disease and February 3rd's National Wear Red Day--and of course, helping women "embrace" RED and how to dress RED for the day--and the entire MONTH (as you know, February is American Heart Month!).

Step and Go Red Repeat: Nick Verreos, Macy's Herald Square NYC Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash

In my last post, I recapped my time arriving in NYC, doing a full Satellite Media Tour across the US with 30+ TV and Radio stations, as well as a brief "run-in" with my Project Runway Season 2 companion, fashion designer Daniel Vosovic. But now, it's time for the BIG DAY:

Red Required: Nick Verreos, flanked by Athena and Rafael, Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash Macy's Herald Square Volunteers/Greeters

I arrived in my RED jacket ensemble (with black skinny jeans, black skinny tie, white shirt and red-white-and-black polka dot pocket hankie) at Macy's Herald Square and I was so happy to be greeted by the two cutest National Wear Red Day Macy's Volunteers: Athena and Rafael. Both were students from F.I.T. and both were braving the very cold weather with their fabulous signs, welcoming Macy's shoppers to come and attend the Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash event which I would be part of.

After a brief stop to pose by the signs and posters welcoming everyone to the event--along with my partner David Paul (above, left)--who of course, came with me for support--wearing his stylish red cardigan.

Taking the Stage: Nick Verreos with Mrs International 2011 Janet Bolin (left), Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash Macy's Herald Square NYC

Our MC was the statuesque and very beautiful "Mrs. International 2011" Janet Bolin. Naturally, I LOVE me a Pageant Girl; a sash, a crown and some fabulous heels...doesn't take much for me to like you! Soon, it was time for me to take the podium. I briefly talked about how amazing of a day this was and getting the audience up to speed with the importance of National Wear Red Day and the Go Red For Women cause. And, since, yes, I was the "Fashion Guy", also letting women know that THEY ALL CAN--and should wear RED!!!

Three's Company: (Left to right) Star Jones, Elizabeth Banks, Nick Verreos Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash, Macy's Herald Square NYC

I was also joined by my co-co-presenters, actress Elizabeth Banks, who wore a very cute polka-dotted jacquard wrap-style dress and nude heels, and the ever-so-fab Miss Star Jones (I feel like she deserves a "Miss" in front of her name...ALWAYS!) in a sleeveless red stretch sateen sheath dress and red heels. They both spoke eloquently about heart disease and how important the Go Red For Women cause is to them.

It was such an honor and wonderful experience to be part of this great day and to add my "Nick Stamp" to National Wear Red Day. Afterward, Elizabeth, Star, and I all walked over to the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women Wall and signed it, sharing our pledge to spread the message of ending heart disease.

Red Macy's: Nick Verreos, Macy's Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash Wall, Macy's Herald Square NYC

Of course, I decided to add my own "Nick" touch to my signature and not only did I write "I Go Red" but of course, I had to draw a fashion illustration of a croquis in a FAB red gown--a NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos & David Paul design--naturally:

Nick Verreos, Elizabeth Banks and Star Jones, signing the Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash Wall, Macy's Herald Square NYC

The photographers got a big kick out of that (I guess, they weren't used to a "Fashion Guru" actually being able to draw "on the spot"-- Mon Dieu!)--and yes, my co-presenters Star Jones and Elizabeth Banks loved it too--they were so inspired, they went back to the wall and drew hearts and kisses.

Red Dress Gown Sketch by Nick Verreos, Macy's Herald Square NYC Go Red For Women Red Dress Dash

I had such an AMAZING time being part of this day and helping the cause of ending heart disease. I am a boy who was raised by wonderful and loving women so this cause is near and dear to me. I want my LADIES to live LONGER and healthier lives! Thank you Macy's and American Heart Association for allowing me to be part of this great day! Oh, and EVERYONE: Go Red!!!!

Today is National Wear Red Day: Nick Verreos, Star Jones and Elizabeth Banks GO RED!

Go Red: (Left to Right) Nick Verreos, actress Elizabeth Banks and attorney, author, American Heart Association National Volunteer Star Jones, National Wear Red Day February 3rd, Macy's Herald Square. Photo: Getty Images

Today is National Wear Red Day. As you may know, I'm working with Macy's and the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women movement to encourage women to take action against heart disease by participating in today's National Wear Red Day!!! Along with Emmy-nominated actress Elizabeth Banks, attorney, author, TV personality and American Heart Association National Volunteer Star Jones, I took part in a spectacular Red Dress Dash at Macy's Herald Square this morning to uncover the truth about heart disease and make ending it a reality!

So, I hope EVERYONE reading this is WEARING RED today! As you can see from the photo above, I did!!! Macy's has THREE exclusive Red Dresses for sale--all for under $100--with 10% of each dresses' purchase going directly to the American Heart Association. And check out the Macy's Wear Red Sale HERE. So...go buy one of those dresses and check out the Macy's Wear Red Sale. You will look fashionable and help this wonderful cause. And yes, GO RED!!! Post photos of yourself on Twitter and Facebook in your red ensembles and encourage your friends and family to do the same!!!

I will do a FULL Recap Post--with many, many photos-- of my time in NYC for National Wear Red Day including my Satellite Media Tour where I did over 30 TV and Radio Interviews. So STAY TUNED here on this very BLOG, for MORE!!! For now...Wear Red and participate in today's National Wear Red Day!!!

Nick Verreos Attends Macy's Passport Presents GLAMORAMA "ARTrageous"

FASHIONrageous at Macy's GLAMORAMA LA 2011:

Nick Verreos, Macy's Passport Presents GLAMORAMA 2011 Red Carpet, Orpheum Theater Los Angeles

This past Friday, I was invited (as well as my NIKOLAKI partner, David Paul) to attend Macy's Passport Presents GLAMORAMA 2011. Macy's Glamorama is an AMAZING event that combines runway fashion, entertainment, music, and all the while raising money for the fight against HIV/AIDS. They do a four city tour, which includes Minneapolis, Chicago, San Francisco and LA.

For the past 29 years, more than $29 million--yes, MILLION--has been raised for outstanding and worthwhile organizations such as AIDS Project Los Angeles and Project Angel Food in Los Angeles and many others in the other cities. Side Note: I remember actually going to one of the very FIRST Macy's Passport shows in San Francisco back when I lived in the Bay Area. I think my Mommie took me (please don't do the math!).

Macy's Glamorama LA 2011 was held at the historic Orpheum Theater in Downtown LA, and the Theme for this year was "ARTrageous". I knew this would be a fun night when the first person I ran into as I get out of my car is...

Ice Queens: Nick Verreos and Johnny Weir

Olympic Figure Skater Johnny Weir--looking much more fabulous than I (Thanks Johnny!!) in a Chris Benz purple knit sweater-jacket and iridescent leggings and some SERIOUS wedge bootie pumps! Now, you might know how much I am a fan of Figure Skating, and especially the Costumes. Last year, I also did some "Fashion Commentating" for Universal Sports during the Vancouver Olympics (with Johnny in fact, but he was in the Vancouver studios while I was in LA). Needless to say, it was wonderful finally meeting him. My partner David was also excited to say "Hi" to Johnny (wait until you see the last photo in this blog!)...

But back to the show:

Macy's Glamorama LA 2011 had so many many highlights. Let's begin with the musical performances. First came Far East Movement (above). I knew their songs, just didn't know who sang them--but Lord Knows now I do! (I know, I'm such a loser when it comes to what "the kids" are listening to these days!). They were GREAT by the way.

Beyond great was Cee Lo Green, who had everyone on their feet by the end of the night. If I wasn't seated all the way in the back, I would have run up on stage and become a groupie/fan and started dancing with him right then and there! (Thank goodness for David that I did not!).

A definite highlight of the evening was a Special Tribute to Dame Elizabeth Taylor, who devoted so much of her life to the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The Tribute was presented by Sharon Stone. Ms. Stone looked every bit a Hollywood Star in a fitted royal blue side shirred dress and LOTS of diamonds (an homage to Miss Taylor I presume?). It was such a loving tribute which also included a brief yet poignant appearance by Elizabeth Taylor's grandsons, Quinn Tivey and Tarquin Wilding.

Oh and yes, then there was The Fashion:



As always, Macy's Passport Presents Glamorama involved showing lots of Fashion. There were nine runway presentations showing the latest Fall 2011 looks from brands that are at Macy's: Armani Jeans, Kenneth Cole, Rachel Rachel Roy, Tommy Girl, Tracy Reese, Impulse Macy's Department, Calvin Klein, bar III...

And Papi, the underwear line. This last "runway portion" of the show was, of course, a BIG HIT with the audience--men and women alike, thank you very much. How those boys can be up on that stage almost naked is beyond me. But I guess if I had their bodies...

After the show was over, it was time for David and I to head to the After Party, which was held at the nearby California Market Center, in its expansive lobby. For tonight's Glamorama After Party, the lobby was transformed into a Las Vegas-style Nightclub. Guests arrived and began to enjoy the Patron Tequila Bar, several food/hors d'oeuvre sections (the roast beef sliders and vegi wraps were delicious!), as well as a See's Candy and Don Francisco's Specialty Coffee tables, among others.

At the After Party, I ran into my friend Ross Mathews, who was there with his partner Salvador--both looking quite dapper. Ross was working his grey H&M jacket with white piping, skinny tie and skinny jeans.

Also, a woman in a cute red dress approached me, telling me how she was a "big fan" and how her daughter would so jealous that she was meeting me. Her name was Michele and her beau turned out to be "The Young and The Restless" actor Sean Kanan (above with Michele). We had a very fun conversation which involved everything from Project Runway to our mutual love of Italy, my experience of almost drowning off the coast of Capri and his new cooking book "The Modern Gentleman". And of course, I made Michele call her daughter so I could say "Hi" and give my best Tim Gunn "Make It Work" impression. With that, it was time to say "Ciao" to them, and the fabulous Macy's Glamorama After Party.

Oh and before I forget, I promised a certain photo of David and Johnny Weir--well, Here ya go:

Get Your Hands Off My Man: Johnny Weir and NIKOLAKI co-designer David Paul

It doesn't get more Figure Skating Fabulous than this! If this doesn't end up on David's Facebook, I don't know what will!

Nick Verreos in Novi Michigan's Twelve Oaks Mall: Macy's "Putting It All Together" event--The Recap!

Detroit Fashion Gals, Michigander Fashionistas, Exclusive Blogging Project Runway Interview...and George Clooney????

Michigander Gals: Nick Verreos poses with Macy's "Putting It All Together" guests (and "Project Runway" fans), Macy's Twelve Oaks Mall Novi Michigan

This last Friday, I flew to Detroit Michigan to host one of my FAB Macy's "Putting It All Together" events. Just days before, I was in Chicago Macy's State Street and then, had to fly back to LA to take care of some dress-making NIKOLAKI business--and then later in the week, I was back on a plane--to Detroit. I was hosting at Novi Michigan's (about 30 miles from Detroit) Twelve Oaks Mall Macy's the following day--on Saturday.

Upon arriving into Novi, I checked into the very chic "The Baronette Renaissance" Boutique Hotel. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED the decor: It was very Mid-Century Modern Boutique-y. I WANT EVERY piece of furniture for my own home!!!

The Baronette Renaissance Hotel Lobby, Novi Michigan

I've been to many a Boutique Hotel in my "frequent flyer" travels and I must say, The Baronette Renaissance was one of THE BEST! Loved that Lobby, with the fireplace and sectional sofa decor. It was a nice "welcome to Novi" after flying (almost) across the US.

The hotel was designed by David Ashen of d-ash Design and as of now: He is my new Interior Design "boyfriend"! If I had all the money in the world, I would order those chairs in the photo above as well as that glass table with the wooden legs. Love.


I also sneaked a peak into the "Kitchen" area (top photo) of The Baronette Renaissance, which was just as sleek and well-designed as the rest of the lobby--and of course, it's mini-fridge was well-stocked with a Michigan Icon: Faygo Soda, as you can see. I, unfortunately, never got the chance to try one, but...maybe next time!

Look Who's Here: Nick Verreos, Macy's Twelve Oaks Mall Novi Michigan

But now, it was on to my Macy's "Putting It All Together" Event! The Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi Michigan was abuzz as shoppers gathered around and recognized me as I made my way into the store. Immediately, I told the store manager that I wanted to make an announcement on the intercom and he was happy to make my wish come true.

Novi Stage: Nick Verreos, Macy's "Putting It All Together" event, Twelve Oaks Mall

Soon enough, the First Floor Impulse Department section, which was blocked off for the event, was full with EVERY seat taken and in fact, it became "Standing Room Only". Prior to the event, I was SO excited to see "Tbone" from MY FAVORITE Project Runway Fan Site--Blogging Project Runway--waiting for me--to do an "exclusive" interview and video. It was also great to see my good ol' friend, Lisa Gilpin of GM and formally with Saturn (sponsor of Project Runway!).

Blogging Friends: Lisa Gilpin, Nick Verreos and "Tbone" of Blogging project Runway, Macy's Twelve Oaks Novi Michigan

Naturally, I couldn't contain myself and gave them a big hug--and did the interview (see videos at the end of this posting!). But then, it was time for "Putting It All Together": I chose-- randomly--members from the Macy's audience, to be "Macy's Stylists" and "Put Together" outfits for three challenges...

Including "A Night Out With The Girls", "Brunch With The Girls" and "Shopping With Nick" (above photo). The winners, picked by the rest of the audience, won $100 Macy's Gift Cards while the runners-up got $25 Macy's Gift Cards as well (not bad!).

Contestant Interviewin' : Nick Verreos interviews contestants at the Macy's "Putting It All Together" event, Twelve Oaks Mall Novi Michigan

There were LOTS of Mommies and their daughters and so, of course, at the end, I brought up some of the little future Fashionista/Macy's Top Models and had then do a little Runway Walk on stage with me to cap off this fun Macy's Twelve Oaks "Putting It All Together" event.

I had the BEST time in Michigan with my lovely Michigander DIVAS! I was especially verklempt, when I met a beautiful attendee, Maxine Gardner (above), who actually had a special "Gift" for me: Gorgeous Photo-Cards designed by her!! I couldn't believe it! The fact that someone took the time to come to Macy's and my event and bring me a wonderful gift!? Done and Done! By the way, you can click HERE to see her website and those gorgeous cards from her fundraising company, Artful Vision.

Michigan's Top Models: Nick Verreos with models Caitlyn (L) and Austyn (R), from Real Style Agency, Macy's Twelve Oaks Mall Novi Michigan "Putting it All Together" event

I had a great time and I thank EVERYONE for coming out! And of course, for shopping at Macy's (hello!). But then, I was off to the Detroit Metro Airport to catch my flight back to Los Angeles. Now, I thought my exciting day was over, but...after getting to the airport and checking in, I went through security and had about two hours to waste away. I decided that since I was hungry, I should get a turkey sandwich at the "Waterworks Bar & Grill" at the Delta McNamara Terminal near my gate. As soon as I was about to take my first bite, I look up, and who do I see:

George Clooney and his girlfriend, the beautiful Elisabetta Canalis! Yep, not kidding. In fact, I almost didn't notice him (gray sweater, gray pants, salt-&-pepper hair, glasses) but it was she who caught my eye. She was in jeans, black Ugg boots and sunglasses and no make-up but still, I was like "She's beautiful and...she looks familiar!!! They sat ten feet away, ordered drinks and burgers. The entire kitchen staff was tripping over themselves being all looky-loos. To make a long story short: They were both on my flight back to LA! And yes, the Delta flight attendants, pilot and co-pilot were a MESS! At one point, I wondered if anyone was flying the darn plane because they were all in the front First Class Galley acting like they needed to be there (they were just looking at Mr. Clooney, but pretending not to--it was kinda cute actually!).

It was a very "Hollywood/Celeb Sighting" ending to my fun Detroit Michigan trip. Who knows, maybe next time I visit Novi, I might see Lady Gaga!

Click Below for Blogging Project Runway Interview with Tbone--Part I:

Click Below for Blogging project Runway Interview with Tbone--Part 2: