Bright lights, big city! Not something one would usually think when entering downtown Minneapolis on a chilly February night. Little do most know, the week of February 18-25 is MN Fashion Week. For many local designers, this is the week to make it or break it for the year. Some designers include Christopher Straub, Cliche, Kimberly Jurek, Amanda Christine, and Jenny Carle. It is one of the most glamorous times one can have in our great little state. All of the known and unknown come out dressed from head to toe in glamour and confidence.
A friend and I have attended at least a few shows every year. You could say we are enthusiasts. We are no designer, artist, photographer, buyer, or stylist to any fashion company. We just love to experience being a part of that industry and networking with those whom dedicate theirs lives to it for a few nights out of the year.

We watch as the shows begin and the crowds rolls into the big venue. Passing out business cards while also trying not to spill their drink. Then sitting down and rifling through their gift bags for coupons, future event advertisements, and little bottles of booze. The lights dim and the runway lights up. The models are perfection. Their hair, makeup, and ensembles are a complete work of meticulously planned out art.

This event has become bigger and bigger over the years. It has created big things for our little local designers. Christopher Straub has been able to have the opportunity to join Project Runway. The other designers have been known to be able to sell their items in local clothing stores.

MN Fashion week has come to an end, but what a week it was! I made it out to a few key events; Envision Artopia, Voltage: Fashion Amplified, and the Sol Inspirations Eco Fashion Show. I would have loved to have gone to more, but I had my hands full finishing up my spring collection of jewelry. I had the honor of showing my collection with the fashions of Frances Zerr on Voltage runway!

I was quite impressed with Voltage this year (and not just because I was a part of it) I had gone to the show a few years ago, and while it was well produced, I was left underwhelmed with the designs being showcased. A lot has changed since then. Minneapolis has kicked it up a notch and really seems to be gaining momentum in the fashion realm. My one criticism of the night was the music. Voltage is billed as a fashion/rock show, many of the acts were just too mellow in my opinion. Pink Mink did a great job closing out the night, they fucking rocked! But, while the other bands were talented, I feel they lacked the energy that is needed for a fashion show, especially when the crowd is on their feet for over 3 hours. In fact, music seemed to be an issue at all of the fashion events I attended this year. DJ Sheik was brought in to spin at both the Envision Artopia and the Sol Inspirations shows. I hope they didn’t pay her too much… she mostly played music from 10-15 years ago. We’re there to see forward thinking fashions, why not give us some forward thinking music to go along with it?!

Ok, on to the goodies! I had the pleasure of collaborating with the lovely Frances Zerr to create a bold line of jewelry to accent her awesome sporty spring collection. This was my first time showing on the runway, so I wanted to capture all of the excitement behind the scenes. Below are few shots I managed to get backstage (it was majorly crowded back there!) of our beautiful models. Also, I’ve included some photographs from Jules Christman of our looks going down the runway.

I was elated to be a part of the show, but a bit bummed I didn’t get to see the whole thing. Luckily Frances and I showed 3rd, so I got to see the entire second half of the show! I even managed to get a front row spot thanks to my mom for getting there early and snagging some prime real estate next to the runway. What a great night!!

Check out more awesome photos from the show on one of my fav local fashion blogs Art of Wore!

There were so many talented local Minneapolis designers that showed during MN Fashion Week this year, check out some of my personal favorites!

Jagress Intimates
Nikki English
Needle and Black
Max Lorbach
Raul Osorio
Emma Berg

Alright New York, Paris, and Milan…. Minneapolis is comin’ for ya! Ok, we may not be at that caliber yet, but we’re workin’ on it!!

On April 23rd, The Depot in Minneapolis will be the home of SOL INSPIRATIONS Eco-Fashion Gala & Fundraiser. Why is this event so exciting? Well, if you are a Project Runway fan such as myself, you will get to see three extremely talented stars from the show “make it work” live from MSP: Season 7 Winner Seth Aaron, Fan Favorite Christopher Straub and Finalist Ra’mon-Lawrence Coleman.

With a VIP ticket you are able to attend the VIP Meet & Greet with Seth Aaron at 6 pm. General Admission doors open at 7 pm and the program will start at 8 pm with an eco-fashion show featuring Ignite models and local designers KathrynV, CounterCouture, Jenny Carle and Renalie Bailey.

Now for the UBER exciting part: the design competition! With a $5,000 cash prize on the line and a group of designers that include two Project Runway finalists, a designer who showed her first collection during New York Fashion Week, independent clothing label owners and Twin Cities designers who have been making eco-conscious clothing for years, you CAN’T MISS THIS EVENT! The finalists are: “Project Runway” Finalists Christopher Straub and Ra’mon-Lawrence Coleman, Allison Helliwell of Allilamodie Designs, Tara Latour of Tara Latour Designs, Co-Designers Atom Pechman & Jenn Bratvold and Niki English.

Here is how the design competition works:
Each designer will create three looks: Look 1 must incorporate non-traditional fabrics, Look 2 must incorporate recycled materials or up-cycled clothing, Look 3 must incorporate sustainable fabrics, and one of the looks must use solar panels. Cool huh?

The final runway show of the evening will feature Project Runway Season 7 Winner Seth Aaron Henderson showcasing his SolarWorld collection – as seen in last fall’s Portland Fashion Week – during the exhilarating eco-fashion runway show.

I forgot to mention that there will be hot beats by DJ Shiek, yummy Eco-Tinis, green vendors and exhibits and a silent auction; all proceeds benefit the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society & to help Haiti rebuild! “Save the Babies in Haiti” My fellow fashionistas!

BUY TICKETS

Ra'mon Lawrence Coleman

Seth Aaron Henderson

Christopher Straub

The other half of the show was CounterCouture, a small creative collective of local talent including Angie Arner, Katrina Elliott & Allison Danzl. The collection was inspired by children’s book character Eloise, a mischievous girl who grew up in the Plaza Hotel with an air of elegance but flair for the dramatic. These ladies definitely know what they are doing. They have created a line that brings together design, ecology, & social responsibility without lacking a great sense of style! CounterCouture can be found at Cliché and b. (a resale shop).

Check out images from behind-the-scenes & straight from the runway, thanks to the lovely & extremely talented Rhea Pappas!

While many of you may be relaxing with friends and family, eating brunch or catching up on sleep, I, on the other hand will be attending an AMAZING event: Styles For Smiles!

I will also be working on posts from other MN Fashion events, such as George Moskal & Fashion Ball 2011.

In the meantime, stay tuned for exclusive reporting via @SenoritaSusan on Twitter!

Xoxo,
S

All images from “How Was The Show.“

So, what is this thing called Voltage Fashion Amplified? Learn more & be that much more “in the know” of all things fashion & art in the Mini Apple!

ABOUT VOLTAGE

A MNfashion production now in its seventh installment, the Voltage runway rock show is the marquee event of Spring MNfashion Week each year. The show debuts local designer’s spring 2011 lines alongside a premier lineup of local bands.
More than simply a runway rock show, Voltage: Fashion Amplified serves as a design incubator that helps designers make a business of their art. Hands-on Design Workshops, meetings with industry professionals from the Design Panel and with wholesale fabric reps help designers develop, source and create their spring lines.
An event for local buyers and press will again be held several months prior to Voltage to give local retailers a chance to preview the collections and place orders. Volunteer sewers from the MNfashion Sewing Studio help designers fulfill those orders.
Each year is an evolution and this year during MNfashion Week The Shows will be held. Veteran Voltage designers work with the Event Production Team to produce a classic runway show focused on fashion and the designer.

MISSION STATEMENT

Voltage: Fashion Amplified is the Midwest’s premier rock and fashion show. Through its annual events, Voltage seeks to foster collaboration, engender community and unite music and fashion while providing a national forum for local talent.

ABOUT MNFASHION

MNfashion is dedicated to providing resources and professional development to the local fashion community that will enhance and support a thriving, sustainable local fashion industry.

I was lucky enough to attend one of her two sold out shows held last night at a very trendy loft space in International Market Square. As my second MNfashion Week event, this show was wildly different from last weekend’s Envision. The attendee list capped at 75, which made for a very intimate setting and allowed for a close look at the clothes.

Before the show started, everyone received a complimentary Joytini (cute), appetizers from CRAVE (my friend Mici and I were loving the chicken skewer thingers), and a swag bag stuffed with goodies (hello Fashion Tape and SKYY Raspberry Vodka).

With a children’s book theme like Dr. Seuss, I was eager to see how this would translate into the collection. The loft was decorated with Seuss props and signage setting the stage for a character-like show.

As the show was underway, you could definitely see the Seuss connection through the colors, structuring, and detailing of the pieces. The top hats on some of the models certainly helped with that. Yet, the pieces didn’t venture too far into a weird or cooky territory as you often find in Seuss illustrations. The collection was whimsical and wearable at the same time.

Here are a few shots I took of the show:

This look was part of the “Put Me in the Zoo” group. I’m digging the pleather knickers.

This was the first look to get cheers and applause from the audience. And rightfully so. This dress is adorable. And I liked it even more after I read the print out everyone received describing each look. This pattern was actually inspired by Seuss’ shading technique used on the Cat in the Hat. I thought that was so clever.

Another shading technique patterned jacket.

These polka dot tulle pants were part of the “Scrambled Egg Supper” group.

This might be my favorite look of the night. The colors, the detailing at the bottom, the rose sash – even that bad ass hat. Sign me up.

I believe this number was called “The Cindy Lou Who wedding dress.” Cute, cute, cute.

I would love an excuse to wear this dress. The white fringe detailing was awesome. Very fun.

And there’s Joy Teiken herself.

I’m so glad I braved the monsoon-like weather last night and made it to this show. I loved the smaller setting and thought Joynoelle presented a really beautiful collection.

What did you think of the looks? The Dr. Seuss theme? Tell me!

]]> http://alexandraandthecity.wordpress.com/2010/01/28/preview-voltage-2010/ Thu, 28 Jan 2010 21:55:51 +0000 alexandraandthecity http://alexandraandthecity.wordpress.com/2010/01/28/preview-voltage-2010/ On Tuesday, members of the press and local buyers were treated to a preview of the 10 collections that will debut at the Voltage: Fashion Amplified show during MNfashion Week in April. The event took place at the Vision Management Group loft downtown and was packed with all the major players in Twin Cities fashion. The preview has me really looking forward to seeing the each designer’s collections in their entirety come April. From our sneak peak, there were some definite favorites: Raul Osorio, Frances Zerr, Danielle Everine and Emma Berg.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stanner, Vision Management Group

Osorio’s collection of menswear featured clean lines, fantastic drapery and a great military-inspired jacket paired with short trouser shorts.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stanner, Vision Management Group

I adored Zerr’s collection, featuring desirable colors and simple lines. Zerr told me she is really a minimalist at heart and hopes that shows in her collection. She is also working with natural fibers- nothing like green fashion!

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stanner, Vision Management Group

Everine’s collection was feminine, flirty and very reminiscent of the S/S2010 Miu Miu collection.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Stanner, Vision Management Group

Emma Berg, darling of local arts and fashion, sent a stunning pair of organza pants with a structural crop-top down the runway. Let’s hope that is a sign of what is to come for the rest of her collection!

Check out mnfashionweek.com for more information about the upcoming MNfashion Week. Also visit voltagefashionamplified.com for information on the designers and the big show!

Follow VoltageFashion and MNFashion on Twitter. Check out Vision on Facebook.

First off, I am so happy I was seated for this show. 600000 hours later, my feet would have fallen off. My favorites had to be Emily Weich and Allison Quinnell. Weich designed an ultra-feminine collection with touches that reminded me of the master of all things ultra-fem: Alber Elbaz (my God). I loved loved loved the silver metallic short shorts with ruffles and the simple dresses with bows at the neck. I would wear it all. Allison Quinnell showed her collection inspired by time living in Japan- complete with origami creations in the models hair. I loved so many of the looks in this collection- including a stunning pair of grey trousers with pleated pockets–so chic. I am so excited for all of the talent here and the praise they are getting post-Voltage- YOU DESERVE IT! 

Note: There was one collection I was a bit stunned by and that was Amanda Christine. The playful dresses were nice, but the looks appeared to have been straight from DvF Spring 2009. I am talking the identical flowery headbands DvF put on all of her models in ruffle dresses appeared as a part of this collection. Maybe people didn’t notice…but I did. And thought it was pretty shocking. I do understand that these collections have been in the media for the months that our designers were working on their collections and I understand inspiration but…. this was a bit much.

As for the Met, Rihanna, Madonna, Leighton and Blake, I ask you, what were you thinking?

I am now off to Paris, Italy and Greece for the next month and a half. I will blog about all of my fashionable adventures there. I then start my internship in NYC with favorite designer- where I again will tell of my journey (including my visit to “Model as Muse” and NYFW!!)

bisous.

I had somewhat “prepared” myself for the presentation. Fulk’s is an extremely talented designer with incredible construction. She has a strong aesthetic that is very avant-garde and at times theatrical. I knew what was going to be expected…

Out of the entire presentation, only a handful of looks were wearable. I enjoyed seeing the hand-printed fabrics and the interesting use of fabric and other materials. The show was definitely entertaining, although very few looks were wearable. There was a lot of innovation behind the garments as well. From hoods unfolding to reveal cape-like additions to outfits to twins walking the runway hand in hand in a white dress connected by magnets at the middle only to pull apart and reveal the brightly painted underside of the garment. The runway presentation incorporated many art elements- which is risky with local fashion. The credibility is not yet here in Minneapolis that you can show a collection that is not wearable or consumer friendly. 

Overall, I really appreciated the risks that Laura Fulk took. I admire her construction and design skills as well as her modern, almost space-age Ghesquiere meets Hussein Chalayan aesthetic.

Anyways. I am really excited for MNFW. Tuesday night I will be heading to Laura Fulk‘s Suffocate show at The Lab Theater. Be there.

As a prequel to MNFW I attended the Kjurek Couture Exclusively Spring show at W Hotel on Friday night. I have mixed feelings on the show. I think Jurek is a very talented designer and she has a prominent aesthetic which shined in her recent collections both at Envision and at this show. However, I was very disappointed in the presentation of the show. The garments that took the runway looked like they had been rolled up and threw in a bag and then quickly thrown on the models. Everything was wrinkled which is really distracting when you are trying to appreciate construction and design. I know that resources for local designers can be very scarce, but steamers are a complete essential. And if you do not have a steamer, you find someone that does and you borrow it. And if you do not have someone to steam your garments you find a volunteer. There are a hundred girls in this city that want to volunteer at MNFW events, any of them could have been pulled to steam garments for the show. It was disappointing to see  a poor presentation. 

I will say I loved the accessories by Adrienne Grahn. I love love loved the feather bracelets and the fringe ankle straps- they add so much to a simple summer sandal! The accessories are available at Cliche and Karma- so hurry and pick up some fringe and feathers! [I will post photos of the accessories this week]

After the hair show, the collections were presented in two runway shows. Fifteen is a pretty hefty number when everyone is showing between 10-20 looks. There were some definite standouts, including: Joynoelle, PFT Couture [Cover dress in the March issue of TCLF], Kjuerk Couture, Jenny Carle, Amanda Christine, Re-evolution by Sarah Holm [See one of her dresses in the April issue of TCLF], and just to spice things up, some men’s looks that included scantily clad underwear models by Russel Bourrienne.

The show got a bit long, so I have to admit, we left around 1 a.m. but there was a great crowd, a lot of energy and great spring fashions- don’t miss Envision when it comes around again in the fall!

Re-evolution by Sarah Holm, Photo by Dominique Antionette Almand

Amanda Christine Designs

PFT Couture, Featured in March Twin Cities Luxury & Fashion

The Exclusively Spring Kjuerk Couture Show is kind of a kick-off to fashion week, and her designs are always wearable and fun- so do not miss this show! Friday, April 17 , W Minneapolis 8 p.m.

Sarah Holm’s Re-evolution collection will be on display at Via’s Vintage on Saturday, April 25 during MNFW.

Russell Bourrienne will also show on April 25th at the 5th floor of the Calhoun Building, 8 p.m.

Amanda Christine is a Voltage designer, so you can check her out there, Friday, April 24.

We also met local and Voltage designer, Allison Quinnell. Alissa and I were admiring one of the guests dress from afar all night, so I told her to go ahead and ask her where she got it. And it just so happened that her dress was designed by her friend, and talented designer, Allison Quinnel. She will show 10 looks at Voltage, that draw inspiration from the time she spent living in Japan. The dress we saw was really chic, feminine and wearable, so I think she is going to be a Voltage standout! 

Spotted: Project Runway designer Katherine Gerdes!

April 9: MNfashion Week Preview Party. Unfortunately, this one is invite only. But I was invited…

April 11: ENVISION: Spring 2009. Runway and hair show featuring Amanda Christine, Bothdol fashion by Nyamal Both, Cliché, Drama, Jenny Carle, Joynoelle, Kjurek Couture, kru$h velvet, Local Motion, Peloria, PFT Couture, Re-evolution by Sarah Holm, Renate, Russell Bourrienne and V-State. The show is at Graves 601, tickets are available day of and online at envisionmpls.com.

April 17: Exclusively Spring. Features the Kjuerk Couture [See Kimberly Kjurek in the March issue of Twin Cities Luxury & Fashion] spring collection and accessories by Adrienne. Hurry and grab your tickets, seated VIP seats are only $15!  W Hotel Minneapolis.

April 15: Voltage CD Listening Party. Club Jaeger. 10p.

April 20: Twin City Scene Mixer @ Urban Bean

April 21: Laura Fulk spring collection, Suffocate, debut at The Lab Theater. $15, 6:30 – 10p, runway 8p.

April 22: Sky Garden Fashion Mixer. Free. 7-9p. Eitel City Apartments.

April 24: Voltage: Fashion Amplified. The biggest event of the week features the designs of 15 locals. And the music of 5 fabulous local bands. This is the do not miss event! If you can only pick one (and you are 21) this is the one! Tickets are $25 now and $30 at the door. First Avenue. 8p, runway 9p. After party in the main room to follow.

I will spend the remaining days of mnfw trunk show and boutique hopping depending on my work schedule. il Vostro and Cliche all have events on Saturday and Sunday that look excellent!

Check out these sites for more info and the full schedule:

mnfashion.org

mnfashionweek.com

voltagefashionamplified.com