The Art of Fashion: Chicago Designers Up the Ante

The finale headlining show for Fashion Focus was The Art of Fashion hosted by StyleChicago.com and it was certainly impressive!  The sold out crowd descended upon Millennium Park to preview the Spring 2012 collections of some of Chicago's best established designers: SWABY, Squasht by Les, Lara Miller, Borris Powell, RÜCH, Zamrie, Eva Pazola, Nora del Busto, Sylwia W., Nade Baer.

Sidenote: I must admit, I had the highest expectation and anticipation for SWABY.  Designer, and former Project Runway Canada contestant,  Shernett Swaby has been on my radar for over 2 years. I own one of her handbags and truly appreciate the level of detail she incorporates in every piece. Even though she's been in Chicago for over awhile, it was her first fashion show here. So, I couldn't wait to see her looks walk the runway.

These designers did not disappoint! There was at least one item in each collection that I would be willing to purchase right off the runway.  The show represented the versatility of the Chicago fashion scene. From the practical every day wear by Lara Miller and Zamrie to the avant garde looks presented by SWABY and Nora Del Busto, there was something for every woman.

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Anna Fong presents "A Mayan Tale"

Fashion Focus Week 2011 quickly came to end, and if you've ever believed in saving the best for last, you would have been pleased with Anna Fong's "A Mayan Tale" Collection Preview presented at the historical Renaissance Blackstone Hotel.

Anna Fong is an emerging designer whose ability to tell a story well has set her apart from many of her local contemporaries. She has been known to put a modern twist on a vintage look, which rings true in her latest collection, "A Mayan Tale."

Anna said she was inspired by her recent journey to Guatemala, where she learned about her heritage and translated that sense of identity and knowing into designs full of vibrant hues, timeless shapes and rich fabrics. There is no doubt that Anna can construct a well-designed piece.

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Dress Code: Student Designers Continue to Shine at Fashion Focus

Nicole Paprusky (Illinois Institute of Art)

Every time Fashion Focus rolls around, I look forward to the Dress Code runway show. Featuring students from the city's top four design schools - International Academy of Design and Art (IADT), Columbia College, School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) and Illinois Institute of Art -  Dress Code usually ends up being the most innovative and creative show of the week. And this year was no different.

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The GROW HERE WORKSHOP: Guess Who's on the Blogging Panel?

This Saturday, as part of the Fashion Focus festivities, Laundry Magazine is hosting the Grow Here Workshop. It is a day-long fashion workshop that includes sessions with some of the best local fashion industry insiders - designers, bloggers, retailers and more!

As you can see, I will be on the "Wide World of Blogging" panel at 2pm, along with Kelly of Idols and Egos, Dana of Possessionista and Nicki of Fashionista Chicago. I'm excited to share my insight on the fashion blogging industry with my cohorts.

Come out and support this inaugural event! It is a great opportunity for knowledge sharing and networking. I'm quite sure you won't be disappointed.

Click HERE to purchase tickets (Use code: ALWAYSLEARNING to receive 20% off a non-student pass).

I hope to see you there!

Randolph Street Market: Things I Saw

This past Saturday, I had the wonderful opportunity to accompany Nikia Jefferson, the mind behind ChiTown Fashionista, her husband and her friend to the Chicago’s World Famous Randolph Street Market for my first official outing as a ChiTown Fashionista contributor. It was also my first encounter with America’s biggest urban market.

I would be lying to you and myself if I didn’t admit that I had a few reservations about attending the event. All I heard was “street” and “market” in the same sentence, which was enough to turn me off, and if that wasn’t enough, Mother Nature turned the temperature up to a scorching 1,000 degrees!

As I arose from the blissfulness of my bed to travel towards the “street market,” I thought to myself, “This is crazy! Turn around.” However, I guess I’m not always right. There’s indeed a first time for everything.

The Randolph Street Market was both refreshing and adventurous. Over 200 indoor and outdoor vendors and boutiques were packed like sardines to showcase their eclectic finds. You could spot everything, from vintage treasures and collector’s items to indie fashion designs and decorative home furnishings. The event also offered many food and drink options.

I see why the “market” is being compared to New York City’s SoHo - but honestly, I’ve been to SoHo and it has nothing on this! Sally Schwartz, the Founder and Executive Producer of the Randolph Street Market, is both fashion forward and kind. If you ever find yourself at the event, make sure you find her.

I’ll definitely be returning until I can’t return anymore. Maybe you can join me and the entire ChiTown Fashionista crew next time.

Check out the price details, location and event dates below:

Admission

(Children 12 and under are always free)

Online - $8.00 for general public, $3.00 for students and seniors with ID

At Door - $10.00 for general public, $5.00 for students and seniors with ID

Location
1350 West Randolph Street
Chicago, Illinois 60607

Dates
(Remaining in 2011)
(Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Sundays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.)

September 24 - 25
October 22 - 23 (indoor fashion only)
November 19 - 20 (indoor only)

Things I Saw at Randolph Street Market

Black Lady, Vintage Painting circa 1960s/1970s, By Charles

Chocolate Boy, The Picaninny Caricatures, Antique Propaganda

Pin-Up Girls, Vintage Propaganda circa 1950s

Army Memorabilia, Vintage Army Gear and Findings

Fashion Focus 2010 - My Final Thoughts

By now (based on my previous posts), you know that Fashion Focus is the "unofficial" Chicago Fashion Week.  It is a time when local designers, buyers, boutique owners and fashionistas descend upon Millennium Park to celebrate their love for fashion.

In its six years of existence, 2010 was my first time attending all but one of the runway shows.  More so than the designs, it was the people that made Fashion Focus a winner. Every night, the vibe in the tent was welcoming.  Everyone socialized, networked and took advantage of the many photo opportunities.  It was a chance to hang with my fellow fashion bloggers, run into old friends and meet some super cool individuals.

After all of the hoopla had died down, I felt like something was missing from Fashion Focus.  Although I now have a handful of newfound designers on my list for future purchases, I pondered as to why I wasn't completely overwhelmed by the week-long event. 

Here are my suggestions on ways that Fashion Focus could become bigger and better in the future:

1. Obtain the support of a well-connected, internationally known designer (i.e. Cynthia Rowley) or former Project Runway contestant (i.e. Ra'mon Lawrence) that hails from the Chicagoland area.  This will help to gain more media coverage and increase the participation of top-notch designers both locally and nationally - which also leads to more major sponsors.

2. Include more highly-trained stylists/staff backstage.  Staff that pays great attention to detail will eliminate the seldom-but-noticeable incidents of wrinkled garments, open zippers and ill-fitting garments.

3. Host Fashion Focus in the Spring as well.  This gives designers the opportunity to showcase both their Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter collections.  Plus, it mirrors the execution of Fashion Weeks around the world.

Now, don't get it twisted.  I will support Chicago fashion until the end of days.  However, my hope is that Chicago will garner more national (and even international) attention in the fashion realm.  With the help of Chicago fashion bloggers, events such as Fashion Focus and organizations like the Chicago Fashion Foundation, we are off to a great start. Now, we must figure out how to take Chicago to the next level.

Any thoughts?

Fashion Focus 2010 The Art of Fashion: From Casual to Couture

The Art of Fashion (hosted by StyleChicago.com) was the final runway show of Fashion Focus 2010. Showcasing both established and emerging designers, it was the most attended runway show of the week.

The featured designers included Lara Miller, Kirk James Collection, Paul Sisti, Lauren Lein, Borris Powell and Elda de la Rosa. The emerging designers included Hector-Javier MonArrez, Lydia Wawrzyniak and Fraley Le.

The show consisted of everything from casual daytime looks to "red carpet" contenders. Overall, my favorites were Kirk James Collection and Hector-Javier MonArrez. These designers presented the most wearable looks that also appealed to my aesthetic. Lydia Wawrzyniak came in as a close second. Her collection definitely made me want to get dolled up and attend an art gallery opening or movie premiere (if ever I were to get invited to one).

Here's a peek at my favorite looks of the evening:


Kirk James Collection
http://www.kirkjamescollection.com
Black and white was the color palette of choice. Without much color, what could've been yawn-inducing turned out to be a spectacular presentation. Instead of patterns, Kirk James Collection used varying materials and textures to create the monochromatic effect. I was also a big fan of the flutter sleeves throughout the collection. Femininity at its best.

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Paul Sisti
http://www.paulsisti.com
Paul Sisti's use of sequin was the most intriguing element of the collection. The unexpected mix of denim and sequin definitely caught my attention. Also, the black sequin pants appeared quite wearable and chic.

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Borris Powell
http://www.borrispowell.com
More than anything, I loved the printed dresses. They were extremely flirty. And the colored sashes around the waist sealed the deal.

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Elda de la Rosa
http://www.eldadelarosa.com
The details on the back of the Elda de la Rosa dresses were breathtaking. Forget the entrance, you would make an unforgettable EXIT wearing one of these lovelies.

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Hector-Javier MonArrez*
http://www.themonafashion.com
Cobalt blue was the prominent color in this collection and I didn't mind it one bit. The color was bold but it was the details that captivated the audience. Asymmetric necklines, puff sleeves and exaggerated shoulders helped to make each item a statement piece without the appearance of trying too hard.

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Lydia Wawrzyniak
http://www.ellezeedesigns.com
As the most artistic designer of the night, Lydia Wawrzyniak showcased the beauty of couture. The craftsmanship and fit were both undeniably amazing.

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Click HERE to view photos from the entire show. Then, come back and tell me your favorite(s)?



*The Hector-Javier MonArrez photos were sourced from StyleChicago.com.

Fashion Focus 2010 Dress Code - "Off the Grid": Student Designers Represent

The Dress Code runway show during Fashion Focus gives design students an opportunity to give the city a glimpse of what they've been up to.  As one might guess, it is the most avant garde of all the runway shows. This year's show, entitled "Off the Grid",  included everything from potato sacks to wooden wings.  The four design schools were represented well...as shown by the designers and the crowd of students that supported them.

And now, the fun stuff:

School of the Art Institute of Chicago 

- The orange velvet dress by Katie King literally brought sexy back.
- Talia Elinoff's gold dress with uniquely placed horizontal ruffles is perfect for a cocktail party. While the yellow double breasted and belted jacket presented us with an ideal way to add color to a man's wardrobe.
- Although, not necessarily the most wearable, Luis Rodriguez's innovative half sheer, half suit dress managed to "wow" the crowd even after the initial shock of the eerily fantastic masks donned by the models (reminiscent of Junya Watanabe S/S 2011).

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Columbia College Chicago

- The hard edges of the fossil-like headpiece were the perfect complement to the voluminous ruffled dress by Christina Yi.
- Elizabeth Weidner's coat with asymmetrical button detail put a twist on the military look.
- Dana Farella cut, twisted and turned wool tweed in every way imaginable.
- Only two words for the Maureen Sullivan finale dress. Simply. Gorgeous.

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The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago

- The gathered hem detail on this dress by Suzanne Anderson gave the illusion of a jumpsuit. I kept asking myself, "is it a jumpsuit?" "is it a dress?" Either way, I like it.
- The potato sack and one strap overalls in Michael Schellenbach's collection were impractical yet noteworthy.

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The International Academy of Design and Technology

- Color-blocked brocade, Hakeem Gayden? Yes, please.
- An angel with wooden wings, Alexandre Chandoa? Absolutely.


Which school(s) do you think had the best designs?

Fashion Focus 2010 Studio-808 Accessory Style Lounge: Local Designers and My Personal Pledge

Typically, during any fashion week, accessories take a back seat to the garments seen on the runway. In the fashion world, where styling can make or break a runway show, accessories are the greatest "supporting actors".

Harper's Bazaar recognized this fact when they decided to host their first ever Accessories Bazaar during NY Fashion Week this past September. In Chicago, Studio-808 followed suit with their Accessory Style Lounge during Fashion Focus 2010.

With only six participating designers, this event managed to inspire me to make a personal pledge...which I'll get to later. First, let's discuss these awesome local designers.



Love, Lulu Mae
http://www.lovelulumae.com
Saying that Love, Lulu Mae's headbands, multipurpose hairpins, masks and top hats are eye-catching would be an understatement. Using findings such as vintage brooches and Swarovski crystals paired with accents of feather and tulle, the designer, Agnes (shown above), has created a line of amazing handmade headpieces. Taking center stage was the top hat with a netted veil, feathers and large plume. It is theatrical yet perfect for a fun night out! As if her current collection is not enough, Agnes also makes custom items. So, whether it's a photo shoot or a masquerade ball, she's got you covered.

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Jules
http://shopjules.com
Jules is a jewelry line that I had always heard about but never had the opportunity of seeing in person. Thank goodness I finally got my chance! The designer, Julie, knows how to work the heck out of metal and gemstones. The high level of craftmanship and the brilliance of the light reflecting off the stones made me want nearly every item in her collection. However, it was her unique pieces such as the Bijoux Square Bangle and the Wrist Wring Bling that sealed my fate as Jules' #1 fan. Julie is truly an artist.

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Other great finds included:

- the metal and beaded earrings by Susan Elizabeth Designs (such dangly goodness)

- the hats with ear flaps by Squasht by Les (been pretty much lusting after these for over a year)

- the wrist clutches by Lisa Spagnolo (striking colors and patterns)

- the leather bracelets by Sophia Forero bearing the logos of brands such as Addidas and Wilson (perfect for my b-boys and b-girls)

Viewing all of these great accessories and experiencing the enthusiasm each of these designers had for there respective line compelled me to make a personal pledge. I have decided for this upcoming holiday season, to purchase most, if not all, of my gifts from local designers! I figured it would be a great way to support these independent artists and take advantage of the unique, one-of-a-kind items they have to offer. As usual, I'll keep you up to date on my purchases via Twitter.

Did you make it to the Studio-808 Accessory Style Lounge? What did you buy? Who was your favorite designer?

Fashion Focus 2010 Events

Fashion Focus - Chicago's Fashion Week - begins next week!!  Jam-packed with runway shows and shopping events, it's shaping up to be one of THE most anticipated weeks in the Chicago fashion world.  I'm excited to see what Chicago designers, established and emerging, have to offer.

Here are some of the events I'm looking forward to attending:

Tuesday, October 19th:

Macy’s presents the Chicago Fashion Incubator Designers Past & Present with CS Magazine
Kickoff Fashion Focus Chicago 2010 with the accomplishments of the Chicago Fashion Incubator designers-in-residence past and present. Stay ahead of the trends with this preview of Spring 2011 collections from 14 of the names-you-need-to-know from the Chicago Fashion Incubator. Join Macy’s and CS Magazine for a runway exclusive showcasing alumni from 2008 and 2009 alongside the 2010 designers-in-residence as they debut their Spring 2011 collections. (Click HERE for my recap)

Time:
7:30pm

Location:
Millennium Park, Chase Promenade North
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60601



Wednesday, October 20th:

Life of Two Fairies Runway Show
Borris Powell presents his Spring 2011 eponymous womenswear collection the “Life of Two Fairies.” The playful and romantic collection is inspired by a legend of two fairies falling in love despite coming from different backgrounds. The runway show will bring the inspiration of the collection to life and tell a tale of innocent love entangled by good and evil.

Time:
9:00pm

Location:
The Drake Hotel, Palmer Room
140 E. Walton Pl.
Chicago, IL 60611


Thursday, October 21st:

Studio-808 presents the Accessory Style Lounge
Studio-808 is presenting the first ever Accessory Style Lounge showcasing Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 accessory lines from a select list of emerging Chicago brands. A shopping suite filled with fashion, fun and the perfect place to pick up pieces to complement any wardrobe from Chicago’s most creative accessory designers.

Time:
3:00pm - 6:00pm

Location:
Hard Rock Hotel Chicago, Lounge Bar
230 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60601

Dress Code
Catch the runway debut of the next rising stars at this showing of top students from Chicago’s fashion design schools: Columbia College Chicago, The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago, The International Academy of Design & Technology Chicago and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. An added feature to this year’s event will be a showing of the four finalists from Chicago History Museum’s FashioNext Generation competition. The winner will be announced during the runway show and the awarded hat and handbag designs created for the competition will be put on display with the winning ensemble from the 2010 FashioNext competition in connection with the I Do! Chicago Ties the Knot exhibition.

Time:
7:00pm

Location:
Millennium Park, Chase Promenade North
201 E. Randolph Street
Chicago, IL 60601


Friday, October 22nd:

StyleChicago.com presents the Art of Fashion 2010
The Art of Fashion 2010 is the runway finale at Millennium Park presented by StyleChicago.com. This artistic affair will preview contemporary to couture Spring 2011 collections of accomplished Chicago designers Elda de la Rosa, Kirk James Collection by studio 5p1t, Lara Miller, Lauren Lein, Borris Powell, and Paul Sisti, to name a few. This elegant event will also showcase three award-winning designers in an “emerging artists” category: Hector-Javier MonArrez, Fraley Le and Lydia Wawrzyniak. In addition to cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, VIP ticket holders will receive an amazing signature StyleChicago.com gift bag.
Time:
7:30pm
 
Location:
Millennium Park, Chase Promenade North
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60601
 

Saturday, October 23rd:

FashionChicago® presented by StyleChicago.com
To end the week, the fashion tent at Millennium Park will be transformed into a one-of-a-kind, designer shopping event on Saturday. Shop more than thirty of Chicago’s best apparel, jewelry and accessories designers. The first 100 shoppers who make a minimum purchase of $100 or more will receive a StyleChicago.com signature goodie bag.
Time:
10:00am - 6:00pm

Location:
Millennium Park, Chase Promenade North
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60601


Click HERE for the complete event list and ticket information.

See ya next week!!

Which events will you be attending? What are you wearing? Which designers are you excited to see?

Update:
Independent Retail Week will be in effect at the same time.  Visit ChicagoDress.com to view the list of events for participating stores.

Fashion Focus(ed): Designers of Chicago

After much anticipation, fashion week (although it only lasts 3 days) is officially underway in Chicago. The first major event was the Macy's Designers of Chicago runway show that featured 6 well-established designers who currently have items available at Macy's plus 6 emerging designers that were chosen for Macy's Chicago Fashion Incubator.

Although, one of my BFFs (best fashion friend) and I arrived right before the show and encountered a fully-packed venue, we were lucky enough to be offered seats right at the end of the runway amongst the media. That's what I'd like to call a MAJOR score!

Unfortunately, I was without my camera (the second time in this past week). Sooooo, me and my blackberry camera were reunited once again, all in the name of fashion.

The show consisted of many ready-to-wear items. Some may complain that there weren't many (if any) avant garde pieces. However, I believe that ready-to-wear is a favorite amongst Chicago fashionistas. We are constantly on the move and braving weather that at times involves experiencing all 4 seasons in one day. Our closets overwhelming consist of items that are unique yet practical, sophisticated yet wearable.

Based on the show, I've concluded that ruffles are here to stay and that some of the colors we will see in the Spring include blues, greens, corals and pinks. Ladies, it's all about femininity and color!

Some of my personal favorites were the following:

• The pool blue/white tunic and wrap by Lara Miller: She took me to a warm and sunny place, even if it was for 5 minutes.


• The sequin hats and bags by Blake Standard: They're such great ways to incorporate sequin into one's wardrobe.


• The ruffle skirts and green/navy seersucker dress by 5p1t: The dress had pockets. Enough. Said.


• The high collar pleated top by Tennille White: Plus-size fashion at is best!


• The blazers and jackets by Lauren Lein: I'm a sucker for puff sleeves and asymmetry.


• The dramatic headpieces as well as the grey/silver tweed halter gown by Jermikko: The cascading ribbon detail in the back was fantabulous.


• The swing coat and jacket by Zamrie: They had so much movement! The jacket is officially on my "must have" list.


• Everything by Audey: Her first piece resulted in a resounding "ahhh" from the crowd. Her use of colors and patterns was so refreshing.

Some of the crowd pleasers included the plus-sized models in Tennille White's showcase who WORKED the runway and the men that modelled Lee Allison shirts and ties wearing nothing else but boxers and dress socks (including the old school sock garters). So fun!

Overall, it was a fantastic runway show. Chicago represented well, in both the designs and the attendance. The room was filled to capacity despite the cold and rainy weather as well as the leaking and puddle-filled tent. When it comes to fashion, nobody puts Chicago in a corner. We're so fashion focus(ed)!