Fashion lovers, start your engines because the kick-0ff event for Austin Fashion Week 2012 is going to be a high octane party!!
The organizers of Austin Fashion Week has announced a partnership with Circuit of the Americas, in conjunction with the Circuit Events Host Committee. The prestigious kick-off event will combine motorsports and fashion with an event entitled, Shift Into Style. The event will not only feature fashion, food and entertainment, it will also be a fundraiser to benefit the Seton Breast Cancer Center and Dell Children’s Blood and Cancer Center.
The party will be held at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum on Friday, Aug. 10 from 8-11 p.m. and serve as the official start to Austin Fashion Week. During the evening, more than one-thousand guests will witness as VIPs from the fashion and motorsports industries unveil the outfits to be worn by the Circuit of The Americas’ (COTA) Girls at the FORMULA 1™ UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX Nov. 16-19, 2012. COTA Girls are stylish ambassadors who will be part of the color and pageantry during the race week festivities. Local fashion talent, of Fashion Star™ fame, Ross Bennett designed the COTA Girls’ collection for Austin’s 2012 Grand Prix and will be on hand for the unveiling.
“This is one of the most unique design projects and it’s an honor to have been chosen for this special assignment in my hometown,” Bennett said. “Formula 1™ events draw sophisticated fans from around the world. We expect SHIFT INTO STYLE to highlight the important role fashion plays in international motorsports.”
SHIFT INTO STYLE will feature runway shows by Robert Danes and other locally and nationally recognized designers, with hair and make up by ROAR Salon. In addition, proceeds from silent auction items created specifically for this event by Kendra Scott, Linda Asaf, Lana Chu and other designers will benefit The Arc of the Capital Area.
“The Circuit Events Host Committee is working on a number of special events leading up to the FORMULA 1™ UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX in November, and we are excited to launch our official event schedule with SHIFT INTO STYLE in partnership with the great team responsible for Austin Fashion Week,” said Geoff Moore, Circuit chief marketing and revenue officer. “Formula 1™ Grands Prix are very fashion-focused experiences, and we expect SHIFT INTO STYLE to get our guests excited for the fall season while providing a preview of what we expect to see at the Circuit this November.”
Austin Fashion Week features nearly 100 “Showcase Events” that take place throughout the city from Aug. 11-14, ranging from designer trunk shows to cocktail parties. Austin Fashion Week will also debut apparel and accessories collections at the landmark Driskill Hotel during “Runway Presentations and Marketplace,” Aug. 15-17. Each night, numerous collections will be shown from contemporary and evening, to menswear and resort wear. Austin Fashion Week concludes with the Austin Fashion Awards at Austin Music Hall on Aug. 18. Rising Stars, Trailblazers, and Mash Up Teams will be recognized with the coveted Golden Boot Award.
The most exciting fashion event is Austin Fashion Week and if you would like to participate, here are the final details to get fashionably involved. Deadline is today, Friday, June 1. We are looking forward to covering the event again this year as a media sponsor.
FEES: Austin Fashion Week has done away with participation fees for multiple categories this year… basically everything except designers and retailers (boutiques, salons, spas), and also the Mash Up Teams.
DESIGNER PROCESS: For the Austin Based designers category: The AFW Advisory Board will convene to review all applications and samples. The top 16 designers will be awarded “Showcase Designer” status. They will receive as follows:
The top THREE clothing designers will be awarded a complete runway show (20 – 25 looks) at the Driskill Runways.
The top THREE jewelry or accessory designers will be awarded a booth at the Driskill Marketplace.
The next TEN designers will be awarded Showcases at local retail and salon venues — these showcases are meant to be amped up trunk shows.
AWARDS & VOTING:
1. Beginning June 4, nomination forms will be made available to the general public via FashionWeekAustin.com. Users may NOMINATE deserving candidates for TRAILBLAZER or RISING STAR awards.
2. On June 22, nominations will close.
3. All nominees will be presented to the 13-member Board for Austin Fashion Week. This Board consists of the following members:
Stephen Moser: Austin Chronicle Style Writer
Eve Nicols: Director of Apparel Design, University of Texas
Linda Asaf: Fashion Designer
Kendra Scott: Fashion Designer
Lance Avery Morgan: Brilliant Magazine, The Society Diaries
Elizabeth Gibson: Owner, Eliza Page
Allen Ruiz: Owner, Jackson Ruiz Salon
Justin Brown: Owner, Wilhelmina Brown Modeling Agency
Chad Harlan: Photographer
Lisa Brooks: Hair Stylist & Owner, Diaz & Brooks
Rochelle Rae: Owner, Rae Cosmetics
Anne Marie Beard: Fashion Designer
Sandra Antoun: Stylist
The Board will be tasked with selecting FIVE Trailblazers and FIVE Rising Stars.
Winners of Awards in both categories will only be honored once and will not longer be eligible to receive the same award in future years.
Winners will be announced at the Austin Fashion Awards, August 18.
4. On AUGUST 1, Mash Up Team images will be posted to FashionWeekAustin.com. The general public will be allowed to vote for a “People’s Choice” award for the best image. That award will be presented at the Austin Fashion Awards. In addition, renowned photographer Timothy White will select his favorite image and present the Timothy White Award for the best Mash Up Team image at the Austin Fashion Awards.
SCHEDULE: The schedule for the 2012 Austin Fashion Week will be slightly different from last year:
Kick Off 8/10, Showcase Events 8/11-14, Driskill Runways and Marketplace 8/15-17, and the Austin Fashion Awards 8/18.
This year the Showcase Events will be together and Driskill Runways will be together but on separate days to create opportunity for more people to attend events that might interest them.
Milli Starr hosted their monthly Fascinator Friday during Austin Fashion Week, a hat-centric soiree featuring the latest trends in headwear by millner Laura Del Villaggio. The event featured “Little Black Hats” paired with “Little Black Dresses” by local designers Malissa Long Wear, Tess Designs, Lala, & Savannah Red.
Fall Trends in Jewelry and Fashion at The Domain
Our Fashion Reporter Soloni Behl attended The Salon at the Domain Austin Fashion Week event where they hosted Limbo Jewelry designed by Edson Enriquez. Food was provided by Maggiano’s Little Italy Restaurant, with hip hop music pulsating in the background for a high energy event.
Limbo Jewelry was started about six years ago and each piece of jewelry is hand crafted and made by wire bought in Italy. However, the jewelry is all made locally in Austin and in Chicago with a showroom on Shady Lane Avenue in Austin. Limbo Jewelry is very modern, “organic” and they provide custom design services. Enriquez say’s “this project’s concept is it’s loud statement with simple elements and a clean design. All of our designs are original, with a lot of meaning in the concept development of the design process.
Soloni also stopped by the Loft to enjoy music by DJ Prepmode, catering by Events by Emily and desert cupcakes by Hey Cupcakes. The store showcased their new fall lines and manager Soelem Yohannes showed her the trendy styles for Fall which included flowy tops, knits, trendy skirts, with pops of color for the perfect weekend clothes.
Photography Provided by Andrea Wong
Neiman Marcus Has The Fall Must-Have List
And they shared it with our Fashion Reporter Melanie Fontenot during Austin Fashion Week at Neiman Marcus‘ second annual Fall Trend Event where they presented a runway show featuring bordeaux, lady chic, colorblocking, fur, leather, shimmer, and shine, the essential ingredients for a fashionable fall wardrobe.
The first section of the runway was all about lady chic. Lady chic is polished, elegant, and classic. Feminine dresses and skirts, layering with a scarf, leather belt, handbag, pumps, and timeless jewelry. Lady chic is powerful beauty.
The second set mixed bordeaux with colorblocking. All the luscious shades of wine and graphically mixing with other fall colors such as emerald green and royal blue. A perfect example tonight: a deep purple blouse, leopard print skirt, rust orange poncho, and emerald green patent leather pumps.
The third and final set was introduced as fur, leather, shimmer, and shine. A fur stole, leather boots, sequin dress, gold jewelry. These are the makings of a glamourous woman. With a dozen more possibilities, it’s easy to mix one of these designs into your outfit.
Still trending is patterned and opaque tights, leopard prints, and big hats in bold colors. It’s all about handbags and clutches, leaving our oversized bags at home. Pumps are your go-to shoe, but boots are not to be forgotten. Every item modeled in the show is available at Neiman Marcus and their website has a section for each fall trend.
As informed by host, Jennifer Carnes, the season’s must-haves are lady chic and bordeaux and Melanie left feeling that the Fall’s fashionistas are going to be some beautifully polished ladies!
Thursday night at Austin Fashion Week featured a myriad of cultural diversity. From the screening at AMOA of the documentary on fashion photographer Bill Cunningham, to a pajama-wearing party, and “edgy and eclectic” fashion at the Driskill, Austin Fashion Week had something for everyone! Local Austin designer Boudior Queen headlined the event with runway shows by League of Rebels from Russia and Dallas, and Jamie McCarty from Brooklyn, NY. Hair by The Salon at the Domain and make-up by Rae Cosmetics.
Austin Fashion Week Recap Video for Thursday, August 25, 2011
Austin Museum of Art Debuts “Bill Cunningham New York” For Austin Fashion Week
The Austin Museum of Art (AMOA) held a special screening of “Bill Cunningham New York” on Thursday evening as part of Austin Fashion Week. The screening room was filled with attendees eager to watch the documentary of a living legend and our Fashion Reporter Noemi Ortiz attended the event.
Photographer for the New York Times, Bill photographs people and passing scenes on the streets of Manhattan every day. He has been shooting on the streets of New York for decades, chronicling fashion trends and high society events for the Times Style section. Bill not only documents recognizable names, but he photographs everyday people and eccentrics — anyone whose personal style catches Bill’s eye. Most of his pictures have never been published.
Affable, winsome and somewhat elusive, Bill has dedicated his life and career to photographing and capturing fashion history. Designer Oscar de la Renta has said, “More than anyone else in the city, he has the whole visual history of the last 40 or 50 years of New York,” and Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief said, “We all get dressed for Bill.”
In between making street fashion into an art form. there are some poignant moments in the film, which adds to the candid, real life of the self-effacing photographer. One of the memorable sayings of Bill in the film is that “fashion is the armor we use to survive reality in everyday life.” [paraphrased)
Appearances by fashionistas Patrick McDonald and Iris Apfel added more fun and color to the film. Winner of several film festivals such as Nantcket and New York Film Festivals, Bill Cunningham New York is an enjoyable film for anyone who appreciates fashion to watch.
*Photo taken by Melissa Shea at Paris Fashion Week Lanvin Fall 2011 Collection.
Pajama Party at 1020 Glass Art with Deborah Main Designs
Silk pajamas, sultry tunes, and elegant decor greeted attendees of the Austin Fashion Week event at 1020 Art Glass in the heart of the Second Street District. 1020 Glass Art owners Ryan Ramirez and David Mitchell invited Austin pillow designer Deborah Main to co-host an Austin Fashion Week event focused on dressing your home instead of your body.
The colorful, and gorgeous glass art sculptures, chandeliers, plates, vases, and collectibles adorn every inch of the store, so it was surprising that the pillows featured by Deborah Main Designs had any room to show off at all, but show off they did from the front entrance to the store to the well-placed pillows next to the sculptured glass.
The “Pillow Glass Lounge” theme was accented by classic vintage pajamas from Amelia’s Retro-Vogue & Christion Clothiers, with food and drinks from Cantina Loredo, Tito’s Vodka, and Delish. Hair & makeup by Milk + Honey Salon and music performed by Ava Arenella.
As part of Austin Fashion Week, Langford Market at 249 W. 2nd Street, held “Fashion Pop” on Thursday evening. Our Fashion Reporter, Noemi Ortiz popped over for a chance to enjoy fashion, food and music and check out the designs of Song Fashions. The collaborative work of two sisters, Victoria and Jennifer, who use their love of jewelry and background in graphic design and embroidery to create their designs. The fashionable jewelry is wearable art and really pops against any outfit you’re wearing. Attendees browsed the colorful racks of clothes and accessories while enjoying scrumptious cupcakes from “Lick it, Bite it or Both” and a refreshing drink courtesy of Tito’s Vodka. Music provided by Henry + The Invisibles.
Though the brief Austin rain came and went, it didn’t stop Fashion Reporter Brittnay Owens and Austin’s savvy shoppers from finding fabulous bargains at the Pre Le Garage Sale Clearance event at Dress Shop boutique on Congress Ave. The Pre Le Garage Sale was a preview of the major Le Garage Sale event, which was Saturday and Sunday, topping off Austin Fashion Week where boutiques offer amazing sales so they can make room for their newest collections. The pre-event gave shoppers a chance to visit Dress Shop which offers a chic and sophisticated range of fabulous dresses from causal to cocktail that suits every budget.
Photography Provided By Brittnay Owens
Runway Ready at Milk & Honey
SALON by milk + honey teamed up with jewelry designer Briolette Jewelry to showcase their styling and accessorizing skills that are runway ready! Austin Fashion Week attendees got a behind the scenes look how hair and accessories are designed to create the fashion shows we all love to watch.
New Austin boutique Etcetera, Etc. opened its doors to all fashionista’s during Austin Fashion week. The night was filled with great fashions, music, treats, cocktails and even a photo booth filled with fun accessories. Our Fashion Reporter, Brittany Owens spoke with owner Emma Kate who was very excited at the wonderful response to her new Austin boutique as she mingled amongst the crowd.
Etcetera, Etc. featured new designs from Sixchel by Austin-based designer, Dina Chavez who explained where the unique brand name originated. “Six is my astrological sign and chel came from a Mayan Goddess, Ixchel, who was in love with a Sun God that never paid attention to her, so she wove him a beautiful cloth”, explains Dina. Sixchel is inspired by the 60’s, and hopes to inspire women to embrace their bodies and be sexy as they want to be.
Photography Provided By Brittany Owens
Catherine Nicole Jewelry Featured at Eliza Page
For all of those accessory aficionados who are often seeking out that perfect, final piece to complete that special-occasion-ensemble, look no further than one of Austin’s premier jewelry designers Catherine Nicole.
Our Fashion Reporter Sandra Antoun stopped by her event to find her clad in a stunning lace-sleeved cocktail dress at her showcase at Eliza Page, one could easily see how far some subtle (and, in this case, extremely well-crafted) accentuation can take an outfit. Catherine’s voguish versatility was quite apparent in her creations. A custom line of belts–constructed of both leather and metal, variably punctuated with shimmering stones and textiles–were a definite highlight. Her jewelry, moreover, is best described as timeless, luxurious, and classic. Whether you’re in the market for earrings, necklaces, or rings, Catherine has a palate that can easily weave itself into nearly any fashionable preference. Even the most obstinate creatures of stylistic habits may find themselves willing to step out of their proverbial boxes.
Catherine wielded an impressive knowledge and background about fashion and design, her work was also seen during the Austin Fashion Awards final runway show.
Austin Get’s Hammered at WonderCraft
The WonderCraft held their second Austin Fashion Week event by invited everyone over to make personalized metal stamped jewelry. Teresa Basa showed off her riveting skills and metal texturing and used horsehair on to design some creative pieces of jewelry. A yummy selection of chocolates were provided by CHOCbite, and specialty sodas by Rollerfeet Sodas, and a fun photo booth was provided by Christie Mathis.
Austin’s record heat was no match for the heat generated at Wednesday’s Austin Fashion Week Resort & Swimwear fashion show at the Driskill!
The evening brought out Austin’s fashionistas for their first taste of the Driskill’s runway shows and fun events all over the city like Kendra Scott’s Girl’s Night Out, East Side Cycle Soiree, Bella Bridesmaid, Moss Designer Consignment and more.
Austin Fashion Week Day 5 Video Recap
Swim & Resort Collections at the Driskill
The third night of Austin Fashion Week was all about looking fabulous under the sun with Resort and Swimwear presentations from La Perla, James Tudor, Everything But Water, and Tikini Hut. Hannah Jones from America’s Next Top Model Cycle 16 strutted down the runway along with other models from the Wilhelmina Brown Agency. Our Fashion Reporter shares all the details in her report from the runway on FashionablyAustin.com.
A fashionable crowd turned out to celebrate Austin Fashion Week at Kendra Scott Jewelry. Kendra has created a very successful business from her days of walking Austin’s streets selling her designs store to store. Now Kendra’s designs can be seen on celebrities, in magazine layouts, and on TV shows such as Rachel Ray. Kendra recently opened a boutique in Beverly Hills – so you must stop in her Austin boutique to see her glamourous collection sold coast to coast.
Artists, musicians, and fashionistas joined together to support the Austin Cyclists Association at Wednesday’s Austin Fashion Week event. The event featured clothing designs by John Castro of Kastro Kills, jewelry by Green Goat Designs and hair and makeup by Method Hair.
Drinks were furnished by Treaty Oak Distilling Co. and food was provided by Freebirds World Burrito. Entertainment for the evening was provided by DJ Lord Pyro and Best Best Best Friends Band.
Fashion Reporter Soloni Behl stopped by Bella Bridesmaid, owned by Caycee Harris and Kim Spardelin, who hosted a beautiful Austin Fashion Week event complete with champagne, a band, and featuring bridal designer Jessica Ciarla of Ciarla Bride and hat designer Lana Chu of Lana Chu Designs.
Ciarla has a bridal showroom in Austin in addition to her collection at Bella Bridesmaid. Ciarla offers brides a custom design service for the woman who wants a one-of-a-kind creation for their wedding day.
Millner Lana Chu showed off an impressive hat collection featuring the finest materials that she sources herself from exotic places such as Paris and India. Lana Chu is sold at Bella Bridesmaid and takes custom made orders.
Photography Provided by Andrea Wong
Moss Designer Consignment Features New Designers Petrecia & Monique
Soloni also attended an event at MOSS Designer Consignment on South Lamar Street. It was held in their boutique and hosted Petrecia & Monique Fashion Designs who started designing in February and were showcasing their first collection. Petrecia & Monique are based in San Antonio and are now selling their designs which are inspired by military and rocker bands.
Photography Provided By Andrea Wong
Designer Beth McElhaney Shows New Collection at Austin Fashion Week
Beth McElhaney is a very inspirational, artistic woman. From her hard work ethic to her flamboyant personality, she was the first person in a crowded room that our Fashion Reporter Elizabeth Butler wanted to strike up an insightful conversation with. Beth is the owner and creator of her own company, Personal Adornments and she has designed a line of carefully crafted fine silver, sterling silver, and gold-filled accents in a sophisticated creation.
Ms. McElhaney often uses gemstones, freshwater pearls, as well as vintage and contemporary glass in her jewelry designs from materials all over the world. Beth has recently created a new line called HautewIre structured in what she describes as an “organic” design. HautewIre is a design which includes very thin silver strands, almost like fishing line, which ties in stones onto the silver base in which she creates her pieces. Another line which seemed to spark the interest of many was the ethnic line which were comprised of large beads from all over the world, strung together and fastened to cuffs, chains, etc.
Austin Fashion Week Sale at Dress Shop
The Dress Shop boutique at 315 Congress Avenue had a great accessories sale throughout the day on Wednesday. Shiny necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, handbags and more were buy one, get one 1/2 off! Great opportunity to complete your fall looks with this once-a-year event! Fashion Reporter Noemi Ortiz stopped by to see what goodies owner Leslie Gandy had on hand.
UT Inspired Make-up and Fashion
Dolce Salon hosted an evening filled with makeovers by Joelle Maryn, makeup artist and owner of Cattiva Cosmetics, fashion by Jodi Sehwaben, designer of Bolsita Bebe, and jewelry by Gretchen Grimm of Black & Bluebird Studios. The evening presented a lovely compact palette from Cattiva Cosmetics that was inspired by University of Texas colors, appropriately titled “Game Time”. Stylist Nikki Hodgkins covered the evening’s event for Fashionably Austin, click here for her full article at the University of Texas inspired cosmetic color palette by Cattiva.
The third night of Austin Fashion Week was all about looking fabulous under the sun with Resort and Swimwear presentations from La Perla, James Tudor, Everything But Water, and Tikini Hut. Hannah Jones from America’s Next Top Model Cycle 16 strutted down the runway along with other models from the Wilhelmina Brown Agency.
La Perla, an Italian-based women’s luxury intimate apparel and swimwear brand, started out the show with jewel toned bikinis and one piece suits in reds, greens, and purples. The models were adorned in stunning earrings, cuffs, and pendant necklaces from Kendra Scott Jewelry’s Fall 2011 Candy Jewels, Pod, and Classic Metal Collections. La Perla Swimwear evoked a sense of lingerie delicateness in silhouettes that complimented the bold and up and coming fall jewel tones.
Men’s underwear need not come in a four- pair plastic pack. James Tudor Underwear, a men’s British underwear company, brought not only the washboard abs, but also a unique spin on the age-old dilemma between boxers or briefs. The male models left little to the imagination in a variety of nautical themed briefs in red, navy, and white stripes. They accessorized with black derby hats and matching umbrellas, which added a whimsical yet boyish Charlie Chaplin feel. Later on, I came to realize that rhinestones are not just for girls. The trademark James Tudor waistbands of the athletic boxers and briefs were emblazoned in rhinestones, thus adding an unexpected flare and humor to the
otherwise classic collection.
Everything But Water oozed resort decadence with the on point summer women’s trends of maxi length cover-up dresses, bright color blocking, and the classic all white bikini. The show started off with a 1960’s Malibu Beach Party vibe, with high-waisted bikini bottoms, halter one pieces, and satin headscarves. As the show progressed, the collection transformed into a more contemporary style with bright tropical and leopard printed bikinis topped with straw cowboy and wide brimmed floppy hats. Everything But Water truly epitomized the perfect wardrobe for a Caribbean Beach Get-A-Way.
Lastly, Tikini Hut was all about the funk and flavor of the Miami Beach Club scene. The models strutted down the runway in a variety of gold, purple, silver, and pink sequined bikinis. Neon pink, orange, and black color blocking along with tan python prints slithered down the catwalk. The Tankini Hut swimwear collection has a severely bold and no nonsense aesthetic, which is sure to provide an electrifying beach-ready outfit for the summer party girl.
Thank you to Blo Blow Dry Bar for sponsoring our Resort & Swimwear Coverage!
They were the hair style/salon provider for the night. Make up by the team of Rae Cosmetics.
Diamonds may be a girls best friend, however, blinged-out makeup may be a close second. Cattiva Cosmetics launched their University of Texas inspired palette tonight at Dolce Salon off of Lake Austin Boulevard and our Fashion Reporter Nikki Hodkins was there to cheer them on.
The night was filled with makeovers by Joelle Maryn, makeup artist and owner of Cattiva Cosmetics, fashion by Jodi Sehwaben, designer of Bolsita Bebe, and jewelry by Gretchen Grimm of Black & Bluebird Studios. The evening presented a lovely compact palette from Cattiva Cosmetics that was inspired by UT colors, appropriately titled “Game Time”.
Cris Brasher of Dolce Salon, Kristi Stavrou, and Joelle Maryn of CATTIVA Cosmetics showed-off the new palette that featured a face bronzer that doubles as a crease contour for your eyes, as well as two eye shadows in a bronze-toned orange and shimmery ecru. The palette was complimented by the lines #8 lipgloss, also titled “Game Time”. Cattiva is the first couture-inspired mineral makeup line that boasts benefits for your skin that include paraben free, talc free, and fragrance free. The lip glosses, which were donned with real Swarovski crystals, had natural vanilla extract in them to create not only a beautiful smell, but lovely taste. The line is also loaded with anti-oxidants for an age-defying boost. All of Cattiva’s palettes are refillable and eco-friendly, but the real charm is the compact design completely encrusted with crystals.
And what goes better with amazing makeup? Amazing fashion of course! Designer Jodi Sehwaben of Bolsita Bebe launched her Fall 2012 line, “Prima” at the event. Jodi says that “Prima” is inspired by dance and the ballerina lifestyle. Beautiful flowing tops in beautiful prints that could be slipped over a leotard, fashionable legwarmers, flowing scarves, and tank tops with lace razorbacks are all included in the line. However the line is not only for dancers, and can be worn from a shopping trip with the girls to a romantic dinner.
All girls know that you cannot have a perfect outfit without the right accessories. In comes Gretchen Grimm of Black & Bluebird Studios with beautiful vintage inspired jewelry that is made of upcycled materials that would complement any ensemble. The event flowed beautifully as guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as well as the lovely ambiance of Dolce Salon. A night perfectly fit for any fashionista.
On Tuesday night, designers from around Texas and the Unites States came together to show off their designs at the beautiful Driskill Hotel; and our Fashion Reporter Rebecca Gonzalez had the privilege of talking to some of these amazing jewelry designers. Designers from Austin, Houston, Laredo, Dallas, and even New York and San Francisco presented gorgeous creations made from brass, silver, and gold ranging in such unique items as stingray skin, guitar strings and nylon-coated stainless steel.
Tracy Tenpenny showed us her edgy side with designs inspired by her very own name! Models strutted down the runway wearing a shawl, belt, anklets all made out of tenpenny weight nails. A very unexpected and delightful concept for the evening’s runway show.
New York designer Meghan Patrice Riley’s showcased works inspired by the flexibility and strength of nylon- coated stainless steel to weave and crochet bracelets and necklaces with a lightweight voluminous feel. She said, “I love the volume and bold look of these pieces, but they are so lightweight and airy!” Also creating jewelry from metal wire is Dallas designer Abbie Chesney for Eye on the Sparrow Designs. She uses guitar strings to create funky and bold jewelry. She uses the reclaimed strings to create a “restoration” piece as a way to connect music lovers to musicians.
Creating bold and daring pieces is Laredo designer Patricia de Leon for Leonatti. She has spent much of her time learning and getting inspiration from Jewelry Capitol San Miguel deAllende, Mexico. And although her pieces are bold and chunky, her use of pearls and ribbons keeps them young, fresh and feminine. Another bold, daring designer is Austin-based Leighelena. Her use of exotic skins like stingray, anaconda, and python make some very unique and exciting accessories!
Photography By Dark Flame Studios
La Belle Vie Soiree
Mirror Mirror Salon created a French Carnivale inspired Austin Fashion Week event that was a visual and sensual delight. The soiree featured headpieces and accessories by Megan Pinto Designs and bridal fashions by CiarlaBridal. The evening featured fabulous entertainment with carnival games, adult Italian icees, a balloon artist, and photo booth.
Musical entertainment was provided by Ava Arenella, drinks from Cinco Vodka, Waialua & Dos XX, food from Kurant Catering and Sarabelles, fun and fashion including the latest styles from CiarlaBridal,
Hill Country Galleria Events
On Tuesday, Austin Fashion Week circled the wagons around the Hill Country Galleria with all but three events focused in the beautiful shopping destination. Fashion Reporter Soloni Behl hit the pedestrian-friendly upscale fashion boutiques and share’s her Austin Fashion Week evening on the town.
Thanks to Gregg Cestaro Photography for providing event coverage of the Hill Country Galleria events.
Runway Ready by Milk & Honey
” The Hill Country Galleria events were creative, amazing, and a lot of fun. The first showcase I attended was “Briolette Jewelry” hosted by Milk + Honey Salon with food provided by Sugar Pop Sweet Shop. It was an intimate affair that was semi casual it felt like a dessert party! Guests got a chance to look at the newest jewelry designs by Nicole Martinez and Jayne Malasko. The designers were best friends who started their business in 2009 and have quickly began to expand their business. The jewelry is made in Austin and Los Angeles the pieces were trendy, whimsical, and unique.”
Francesca’s – Little Bit of Glitz and Glam
“The second event I attended was hosted by Francesca’s Collections featuring “Jewelry by Ally” designed by Allison Schwaba which was handcrafted jewelry and hair accessories. The afternoon started off with sparkling champagne, beautiful clothing, and trendy accessories. The event gave off a stylish, and youthful vibe. The clothes were fun, on trend, and the accessories were colorful with bit of a vintage vibe. Ally was a 24 year old designer who started out making earrings as a hobby then had requests from tons of friends and eventually she turned it into a business. “Jewelry by Ally” created beautiful colorful earrings, feather hair extensions, it was very playful, and hipster looking jewelry perfect for the younger generations!”
Apricot Lane
“Apricot Lane was the third event I attended which was promoted “Gabs Bags” designed by the talented Gabrielle Ledesma. Gabrielle designed new bags and even took old vintage bags and adding new materials, and twists here and there to create all new handbags! Gabrielle does custom orders and sells her bags on etsy.com”
Toni & Guy
“Last but not least, I attended the Toni & Guy showcase, a runway show featuring intricate hair designs, and elaborate makeup on the models. Store manager Sara Fuentes gave us a tour of the gorgeous and modern salon and gave away generous swag bags containing hair products and coupons! Lucky me!”
Monday night of Austin Fashion Week was busy with our reporters all over the city attending a variety of events. The events for the evening were all centered in downtown Austin which is the best place to be during Austin Fashion Week. From charity fashion shows, amazing accessory designers to making your own screen print tee – the evening was an essential Austin adventure.
Daily Video Recap – Austin Fashion Week Day 3
Waterstone Aesthetics Presents MODE-KEI
Fashion Reporter Laura Hamilton attended charity fashion show Monday night at Waterstone Aesthetics. The full-service medical spa and hair salon teamed up with the Japan American Society this year for a charity fashion show benefitting the victims of the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.
The runway show featured three categories of Japanese-inspired looks: harajuku, origami, and traditional geisha. The harajuku looks had an Austin-inspired punk rock feel with models wearing trends seen around the city such as skinny jeans paired with tank tops designed by Alchemy, fishnet tights, ripped jean shorts, combat boots, and of course, fabulous hair and makeup done by the Waterstone Aesthetics team. Jennifer Ayers constructed the origami looks which featured intricately crafted origami pieces attached to gorgeous flowy dresses, while the geisha models displayed traditional geisha wardrobe, hair, and makeup.
As part of Austin Fashion Week, The WonderCraft, located at 1601 E. Cesar Chavez, is offering two events this week. Our Fashion Reporter Noemi Ortiz attended Monday nights event titled Re:Fashion w/Screenprinting. The event gave people an opportunity to bring in a t-shirt, a bag or other item and screen print it to add a little oomph! Some screens included tools, a princess crown, a Texas shape and a sewing machine. I took a simple zebra tote bag and had one of the gals screen print “Be Awesome” in hot pink letters. Other gals and guys upgraded their items and had a chance to try sample of soda by Rollerfeet, samples of chocolate by Chocbite and take a glam picture by Ultralicious Photography. Also, Teresa Basa, a local Austin jewelry designer, was on hand to show her unique metal pieces.
The WonderCraft is a great place to come and do something fun and meet new people. They have a Craft Bar with vast supply of paints, tools and other items. So you can come and make a cool new item out a used one or buy something that’s totally handmade and unique. The next event will be Thursday, August 25, called Get Hammered where you can make personalized hammered jewelry.
Photos Provided by Noemi Ortiz
VIP Happy Hour at The Studio in Austin
The Studio, which opened in June, is an accessories and apparel boutique featuring many talented Austin designers. Owner Paige Nelson Murphy, has a background as a wholesale buyer and provides space for vendors of apparel design, gift and accessories. Our fashion photography Sparky Anderson was on hand for the Austin Fashion Week event and had a chance to speak to several of the businesses associated with The Studio. FaceKandy, make-up by Kandy Glass is a partner and the main reason she chose this location was to take advantage of the 2nd Street District destination shoppers. Most of her customers are wedding parties and happy repeat customers. Milli Starr by milliner Laura Del Villaggio has her collection based there as well. Her custom designed hats and fascinators are well-known and loved in Austin. The Austin Yarn Company has a selection of felted wool handbags designed by Cathie Hutchins. Cathie’s bags are “rinse, dry, & go” and come in a variety of colorful designs. Simmang Design by owner Jillian Summang makes one of kind jewelry designs and sells on Esty as well. The VIP Happy Hour was an enjoyable event with music provided by The Judith Miller Band.
Blo Dry Bar Features Vintage Fashions on the Runway
As Austin is abuzz this week with all things stylish, there’s no shortage of inventive designers trying to stake their claim in the vast, voguish world they hold so dear. Some boast more avant-garde tastes; others opt for a blink into the past. Eric Renteria of Etiquette Vintage Design wished not merely to express his adoration of a time when doo-wop groups dominated the airwaves, but also to combine various creative talents into one, bold event. Whether it be the inspired jewelry collections of Rene Guest, the informative digital artwork of Brandyn Balmos, or the retrospective flare of Renteria’s own college-sweater line, there was definitely something for every eye to enjoy at Blo Dry Bar’s Austin Fashion Week event.
Last night, as our Fashion Reporter Elizabeth Butler stepped into Austin’s Driskill Hotel to find her seat, a bystander came up and asked what kind of crazy, loud, and over-the-top event was being held the last couple of days in town. He claimed to have never seen as many creative and eclectic characters in one setting. Elizabeth replied “Well that’s Austin Fashion Week for you!” At that moment, she realized that that man was right; these crazy, eclectic designers have used their cultures, personal history, and keen sense of fashion to inspire us all during Austin Fashion Week
During the Driskill’s first accessory presentation, hats, jackets, couture, evening, and cocktail attire were presented. My Gigi, a “keepsake” clothing line for little girls, presented by designer Kathy Scoggin, were innovative styles for Spring 2012. The “I go places” and “Flower Power Dress” are just two of many dresses named after the intricate detail and embroidery on the dresses.
Next up, came LSD Hats, designed by Lydia Sullivan. This Oklahoma City designer hand makes her creations. Her look is a fusion of modern colors, lines, and shapes and appeal to all ages and events. An Austin-based hat designer, Laura del Villaggio, owner of Milli Starr, works with hand-woven straws, silks, feathers, and more to create her intricate designs. The label produces headwear for competent, powerful women who love wearable art. Villaggio borrows a few timeless ideas from history, while putting a modern twist on her creations.
Following Milli Starr was Janie G’s collection. Designer Caroline J. Smith wowed the audience with her custom bridal designs. Handmade, with silk and sheer fabrics, Caroline gets her inspiration from the 1950’s-1960’s Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie O styles. Lastly, Susan Hollingsworth of SuKaz showed-off her gorgeous cropped jackets. The designer creates one-of-a-kind jackets consisting of original back panels made in Kazakhstan. Susan’s jackets have a simple, sophisticated style until they are opened up from the back and a handmade image appears from beneath, almost like an optical illusion.
Our Fashion Reporter Gabby Daniel went downtown Monday night to cover an event at Dress Shop, a chic boutique on Congress Avenue owned by Leslie Gandy. Dress Shop’s selection ranges from casual to cocktail and can be worn women of all ages and sizes. The boutique features accessories to complete your look with great designs in handbags, jewelry, belts and jackets.
The Austin Fashion Week event featured jewelry from Rene Guest creater Cristin Guest and Rene and clothing by 81Poppies among others. The collaboration between the designers and making a masterpiece was done by stylist Laurel Kinney of Trophy Boutique. The jewelry by Rene Guest was a spectacular and an original collection with a variety of white and peacock-eye feathers between microscope slides transformed onto bracelets, necklaces, and stunning earrings that completed the model’s dresses. The pieces for the evening were timeless and classy and ranged from casual to classic, with a touch of the unique Austin style. The event included giveaways from local designers along with music by John Branch. The event was a very elegant and casual evening and left you looking forward to your next visit to Dress Shop for more! Leslie and her team created a great way to introduce us to the Fall season’s trends.
On Monday night at the ND 501 Studios , our Fashion Reporter Sheridan Butler was on hand to cover Dean Frederick’s “The Heist No. 2” in association with Gypsy Sun.Models were dressed in 1920’s attire wearing hat designer Lana Chu’s state of the art hats.Those who gave a five-dollar donation to Dress For Success Austin were entered in a drawing for the black diamond give away!Mulberry, Frank, Tito’s, and Maine Root provided food and drinks.The show went on all night with trapeze dancers in the air and live performances by White Ghost Shivers, legendary guitarist Eric Johnson, Smoke and Feathers, and Graham Wilkinson.
Maison d’Etoile is a style collective that is home to Coco Coquette, Charm School Vintage and Salon d’Etoile. Located on Cesar Chavez in an star-studded building, you immediately know you’re about to have a very unique shopping and styling experience. The Austin Fashion Week event featured Austin lingerie designer Megan Summerville of Sew Sister. Her fashion show of drop dead beautiful creations would make any woman thrilled and men swoon.
Austin Fashion Week officially started events on Sunday with a brunch at Fleming’s which I co-hosted with Amy Schalk of Soigne Style Consultants. The informal and casual modeling format gave attendees a chance to get an up-close and personal view of the clothing from several venues. Atelier 1105 provided beautiful vintage jewelry, Anne Fontaine, and Betsey Johnson showed off new fall collections, Charming Charlie had models covered in fun bobbles for the trendiest fashion tastes. Local fashion designer Rochelle Briton unveiled her new coat collection which was clean, simple and elegant.
The evening ended with “Glitz.Glam.Betty” held at Urban Betty Salon and was a smash! Our Fashion Reporter Sheridan Butler and photographer Sparky Anderson was there to see the stunning models showcase Lizabeth & LeAnn Clothing by designer Meredith Oltmann. Hair and make up was provided by the talented ladies at Urban Betty Salon. Decorative cupcakes that were immediately devoured and were baked by Lick It Bite It Or Both. Vitamin Water and Tito’s Vodka teamed up to create the fashionably delicious pink cocktails.
Designer Meredith Oltmann established Lizabeth & LeAnn in 2010 “to create clothing for women by integrating unusual fabrics, eye-catching designs, and flattering styles.” The models walked the runway in the Urban Betty garden in Lizabeth & LeAnn’s flirty and fun designs. Ranging from sparkly to chic, there’s a design that will fit everyone! Lizabeth & LeAnn’s mixture of fun style will even customize your next party dress suited for your needs. Urban Betty Salon is located in the 26 Doors shopping center at 1206 West 38th Street.
Our Photographer Sparky Anderson covered Austin Jewelry Designer Cynthia Bloom‘s event at Estilo Valdez Salon which was attended by a crowd that was three times the expected RSVP list. Carmen Paz is the new owner of the salon and told Fashionably Austin photographer Sparky Anderson that she is “living the dream“. The salon is a Redken Elite Salon and specializes in Curly Cuts. Cynthia’s new resort collection features garnet, amethyst coated in titanium. Ducati bikes were also featured at the event…which for the guys was the featured accessory for them.
Fashion lovers, start your engines because the kick-0ff event for Austin Fashion Week 2012 is going to be a high octane party!!
Fashion Reporter Laura Hamilton attended charity fashion show Monday night at 
