The Austin chapter of the Young Women’s Alliance hosted their annual fashion show at The Parrish in downtown Austin on August 27. Four stores featured summer fashions…BeeHive, SoLa, downSTAIRS and Soigne Boutique. Proceeds from the event benefit several local charities…YMAF Scholorships, GENaustin, Girlstart and Austin Sunshine Camps.

A Cowboy theme, fiddlers and some of Austin’s finest accessory designers gathered together at Beyond Tradition in downtown Austin on Wednesday night. Attendees enjoyed cold margaritas, conversation with local designers and a fashion show which featured pillows by Deborah Main of Deborah Main Designs, Laura Del Villaggio of Milli Starr, (hats) and jewels by Catherine-Nicole. Deborah and Catherine-Nicole are both Austin Fashion Week Golden Boot Winners.

I had the chance to meet jewelry designer Cynthia Bloom. She uses antique buttons for many of her pieces, Czech glass beads and crystals. Truly one-of-a-kind, understated and beautiful creations.

I also met young up-and-comer handbag designer Sarah Scott. She explained to me that some of her bags will be limited because of the speciality fabrics she selects to create her handbags. She hand-makes her bags too. Certainly someone to watch on the Austin fashion scene.

All of the products created by each designer mentioned is available at Beyond Tradition located at 221 W. 2nd Street in Austin, TX. Or visit their website at
Beyond Tradition.