Saturday, September 26, 2015

Fashion Designer Class of 2015

As we enter the last days before the fashion holiday of the year in Phoenix, AZ, we take this time to reflect on what we have been able to witness and assess about the "fashion designer class of 2015" of Phoenix Fashion Week.  Every year it is amazing to watch the journey that all the designers and the industry around them takes as all the energy and efforts are combined and the program developed.

The culmination of all the work ends in what I like to call the "Fashion New Year" for those who live and breathe fashion 24/7.  This is a holiday, but not like any other one.  If you are part of the industry, you are working during this holiday, but with a joy and energy to make it through to the end.  If you are a spectator of the industry, then you are eagerly awaiting to see the fruits of all the labor from those working in the industry.  Phoenix Fashion Week has created a solid platform and participates fully in laying the foundation of this "Fashion New Year" with the emerging and established designers and all others who support the industry.

Our "Fashion New Year" is October 1 - 3, 2015 when Phoenix Fashion Week at Talking Stick Resort takes place.  The expectation for this year is that it will be one of the biggest fashion events in the Southwest.

We are concluding our major pre-coverage work with what we call Designer Spotlights of the "fashion designer class of 2015".  Each emerging designer has brought something special to the program and we want to share our reflections of who they are.

Michi Knitwear
Upon seeing Michi Knitwear at the launch party in June, there was something that stood out about her which could be seen as it translated to that first piece shown on runway.  Coming from New York, she brings a can-do work ethic and lets nothing stands in her way.  What is most appreciated is the energy she possesses that welcomes you and then the light that shines from her when she talks about her line.   This is a designer who is in her element and that sees real women for who they are.
Photo credit:  602 Photo / Michi Knitwear

Michelle Hebert
Michelle Hebert is recognized for her editorial statement pieces as a designer.  However, what we love about Michelle is that she is not afraid to take risks and walks boldly through doors that would cause others to faint in fear.  She is tenacious about bringing her vision to life and it shows with the intricate and detailed designs that each of her collections possess.
Photo Credit: 602 Photo / Michelle Hebert


Medium Apparel
Socially engaged - that's what Medium Apparel is.  As their line has evolved you see the clients coming back for more and not just because they are street savvy and into the scene. Zac takes the time to immerse himself into the culture and life that surrounds his line by getting to know where his clients "live".
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Medium Apparel


Lousy Rich
A ball of energy and fire is the best way to describe Lousy Rich.  Breanna Rose Skoon works tirelessly on her styles and designs from top to bottom because, for her, it is about the entire look. She is a giving, genuine person. You will have to load up on gallons of coffee to keep up with that talent.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Lousy Rich


Lily V Designs
Lily V is driven and makes things happen in any situation.  There are no obstacles too great and what she has been able to accomplish thus far is representative of the success she will definitely continue to experience.  Her love for community is evident and spills over into everything she does.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Lily V Designs

Leola Sky
Chic, witty, and empowering: three strong words that provide insight to the Leola Sky designer and influence on her collection.  If you can imagine the fun you would have being transformed by wearing a dress or outfit from Leola Sky, then you know there is something of which to take notice.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Leola Sky

Laura Tanzer
Sophistication dominates your thoughts when you think of Laura Tanzer's collection.  It is designed with deliberation and for specific audiences in mind.   Expect quality and consistency from this designer.  There will never be a question as to what Laura Tanzer can deliver.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Laura Tanzer

Haute Body
Run to the left, hike to the right, walk, walk, run, run. Raquel Almazan, designer for Haute Body, knows what it means to live a healthy lifestyle everyday.  She takes it one step further, though, and makes it possible for one to look good and feel good at the same time while taking care of oneself.  You can't get better than that.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Haute Body

Hues of Ego
From zero to sixty is how it all started.  This designer had a vision and a dream to bring stories to life about the inner perspective that is most often hidden.  Natasha Duran Lynch, designer of Hues of Ego, wants beauty to show in every woman and designs her clothing so that the wearer can experience transformation.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Hues of Ego

Cute Like Mad
Do you remember when you thought about being a "bad" girl when you were younger?  This designer embraces the rebellious and daring in her designs and isn't ashamed to admit it.  Jeanette, of Cute Like Mad, has allowed that mood and edginess to be part of her newest collection that lets a woman ride on the wild side and still be considered chic and totally adorable.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Cute Like Mad

Charmosa Swimwear
Latin, hot and spicy describes this designer and what you will be seeing on runway.  Neide Hall, designer for Charmosa Swimear, takes an aggressive approach in styling so that you are transported to a destination getaway when seeing her designs come to life.  She specializes in what I call "swimwear with attitude" that will leave you wanting more.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Charmosa Swimwear

Azmara Asefa
Construction and innovation are two of the signature strengths for Azmara Asefa.   Azmara's futuristic looks take advantage of newer technology and she has fun in the making of her collection and it shows on that wonderful smile and personality she shares with her following.
Photo Credit:  602 Photo / Azmara Asefa

ARAE
When you mix nature with fashion, you get ARAE. The designer, Rachael Levine, has focused on bringing together colors and textures in such a way that you obtain an earthy look and feel which uniquely stands out, especially with her use of tie dye techniques for her creations.
Photo Credit:  ARAE

Each of these collections did not happen by accident.  The amount of work that goes into this level of excellence represents a dedication that is not found many places.  We tip our hats to the "fashion designer class of 2015" - we celebrate your journey thus far that culminates this coming week and look forward to seeing your continued success.

For more information about these designers, click on their section heading and it will take you directly to their website.  These designers will be walking on runway beginning Thursday, October 1st at Phoenix Fashion Week at Talking Stick Resort.  The designers will be showing as denoted on the schedule below.  Go to Phoenix Fashion Week's website for all the details on who else you will be seeing on runway.

October 1, 2015 - Thursday Emerging Designer Shows

October 2, 2015 - Friday Emerging Designer Shows

October 3, 2015 - Saturday Emerging Designer Shows
Azmara Asefa
Leola Sky
Hues of Ego
Michelle Hebert

Photos were taken and provided by Jim Johnson of 602 Photo.  Visit their website to see more of their work.  http://www.602photo.com

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Presented by www.chronicbehavior.com/ @chronicbehavior 
www.facebook.com/FilmFashionFutures.com

Thanks to the Chronic Behavior team for their excellent coverage of the event. They are the team helping to support and promote the brand. We appreciate you for your continued support.

Coverage by Eva Louis

Friday, September 18, 2015

Little Fashionistas Take The Runway By Storm

Photography by Jam Sani 

I have to tell you guys the truth, as I am writing this article, I'm getting the warm fuzzies tugging right at the ol' heart strings with this one. 

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending FAB Weekend's Fashion Against Bullying event held at South Valley Prep and Arts Academy in the ever-changing South Phoenix.


It was such a sight watching the little munchkins strut up and down the runway. 

Photography by Jam Sani 
Photography by Jam Sani 





I got so tickled by the gi-normous attitudes in these 

pint-sized little bodies. I think I saw as young as 3 

years old on upwards to young adult.







Photography by Jam Sani 
                                 
 


 
Photography by Jam Sani

Photography by Jam Sani
 


This awesome fashion show was set in motion to raise awareness on the perils of bullying. As it is, there are many struggles our younger generation goes through in learning how to thrive in today's society. 


But when you add bullying to the equation, it becomes equally harder in dealing with normal childhood struggles. I would suspect there's not many of us who have not dealt with bullying in one shape or form, no matter which side of the coin your on. 


Photography by Jam Sani





It is hurtful, humiliating and at times downright lethal.




The more light that can be shed on this harrowing topic, the more awareness 

will be brought to the seriousness of the subject. 




Okay, okay! I am off my soap box...for now lol. It's time to get down to the fun

stuff. Kiddos on the runway! Oh my gosh, these kiddos were so stinkin' cute!



One rising little diva walked the catwalk like

there was a contract waiting at the end of the

night. I loved it!!! Check out the pics of these

kids working it out.







The event contributors include Kays 

Lamar(who also supplied hair and makeup), 

Trampolina Boutique, The Gap, Little Divas, Keep 

Collective(accessories) and Thurmanetics(active wear).






Julian Nieh






The Fashion Against Bullying host Julian Nieh of KZZP 

seemed like he was successfully keeping the 

audience completely engaged, while listening to the 

sounds of Kev DJXclusive. Y'all know if the music is 

good then its gonna be a good time.


Danielle Fischer, Emily Ortiz, Julian Nieh,
Terrance Hudson

Also in attendance showing their support and sharing their stance on bullying were National American Miss Danielle Fischer, National American Princess Emily Ortiz, and Miss PreTeen AZ United States Jasmine Marshall.




Photography by Jam Sani
Beat Drop Kids
Photography by Jam Sani







The shows festivities included not only a fantastic runway show but some really cool entertainment from dance troupe Beat Drop Kids. A little bit of pop locking, and break dancing made this trendy group a crowd pleaser. 


Even the Phoenix Suns Gorilla made his debut and hyped up the crowd.
Photography by Jam Sani
























Terrance Hudson, Kathy Blaze Jefferson and
Antoinette Fisher of Dynasty Ink










FAB Weekend really 

presented a 

great show for an even 

greater cause. 




Bullying has become such a

worrisome problem in our society it 

was a beautiful sight to see these 

young adults come together to strut 

their stuff for such a worthy cause. 






Stay tuned to see what FAB 

Weekend has in store for you at the 

next big soiree coming real soon. Great job FAB!






See you on the runway!


Toy Taylor












Presented by www.chronicbehavior.com/     @chronicbehavior 
www.facebook.com/FilmFashionFutures.com



Thanks to the Chronic Behavior team 
for their excellent coverage of the event. They are the team helping to support and promote the brand. We appreciate you for your continued support.









Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Videos Gone Wild With Designer Interviews

Something a little different to entertain the senses tonight!!  We just had to create this little video series so we could share the excitement getting ready to come at you in October for Phoenix Fashion Week.  If you hadn't noticed it's fashion season in Phoenix and we are 30 days away from the next big thing happening - 13 emerging clothing designers with 3 emerging accessory designers will be presented on runway!!  

Get your tickets while they last....Click Here...Phoenix Fashion Week runway shows will sell out!!  They always do...

Meet a few of the designers (eight to be exact) we were able to capture at the Shop Garment District event held at the Hotel Palomar Phoenix - A Kimpton Hotel in downtown Phoenix with Phoenix Fashion Week.











Thanks to the support from the team and for always doing an amazing job!!!

Videography by Karen Sundt
Social Media by Daniel Blunck
Reporting / Blogging - Toy Taylor