14 days....and counting down until the FASHION EXPLOSION!!!

     In the world of fashion...there are major highlights every year that dedicated fashionistas look forward to.  The new spring season collection releases through runway shows in the major hot spots are definitely on everyone's fashion schedule.  We are getting ready for a riveting week of fashion beginning on October 1, 2013.  And so the count down begins.
     For the next 14 days, as we count down to what rocks the world of fashion in Arizona, we will focus on the the talent of the emerging designers and their designs styles for this year which are definitely trendsetting and standout.   First we would like to recap the first major view of the runway for the emerging designers which takes us back to the August 9th event. ************************************************
     You know that feeling of anxiety and giddiness you have when you experience something for the first time and you know it’s so incredible you have no way to describe it or stop the awesome feeling that comes with it…Phoenix Fashion Week and Studio 3D delivered this experience on Friday, August 9^th as they presented "Shop Garment District Fashion Show". If you have ever been to the Village or Soho in New York, you would be able to relate. Studio 3D was electric and compounded with intensity from all sides of fashion, runway, culture, and vibe. And the vibe was strong.
     The Studio 3D house was full as many have already reported and flowing with curiosity as well as observations by the fashion newbies in the crowd and the experienced fashionistas that breathe fashion; there are a few of us (total understatement)!! What Phoenix Fashion Week has created is a lifestyle view of fashion that reaches many demographics. It was evident the emerging designers followed their leader in guidance and representation and approached the runway with fiery gusto. Each designer demonstrated their capability to bring their creations to life in such a manner that you felt part of “The Emerging Designer Experiment” (coined phrase by PHXFW) at a visceral level.
     In format and structure, I love the Phoenix Fashion Week presentation of runway as you are completely engaged as you see the dancing of the fabrics, the movements of the models, and the explosion of artistic colors and blends from each of the designers. This event was no exception in the quality and class of this continually developing edgy fashion organization. Each of the emerging designers has a specific focus and niche by what they create. Here’s a brief recap of each of the designers:

• Dolcessa – from Las Vegas, NV a place I like to call my second home, they bring the swimwear to shape you sexy. The vibrant color blends with the sleek cuts, embellishments and styling make their designs a must have for summer and tropical weather fun.
  
• Doux Belle – Vintage, vintage, vintage…did someone say the “roaring 20s” or “The Great Gatsby”…fringe with the classic and sophisticated styling make these designs a favorite go to for themed and standout formal wear. The designs exude elegance at many levels. Enjoy this while you can.
  
• D.p.c by Dora Yim – classic lines and exquisite tailoring…every professional woman should consider this clothing line when you want to control the boardroom or you are the BOSS. These are uniquely styled and will stand the test of time with color compatibility that will extend the coordination of these pieces.
  
• Herbert Victoria – The infusion of culture and innovation in the line is complimented by the use of bold lines and shapes as well as warm and cool colors coordinated in fashion that almost looks like it's telling a story. The western influence is evident and the flexible styling of the designs makes this an attractive and forward thinking line.
  
• Ja’ire – understands the lines required to accentuate the shapes and the necessary elegance and celebrity that anyone would need as their designs represent the inner and outer beauty of those fortunate enough to take on the persona developed into the styles of Ja'ire. The sexy and classy are readily evident in the designs shared so far.
  
• Linden – form fitting simple cuts that flatter the figure with unique styles that use innovation and often recycled materials; you won't find these artistic pieces just anywhere. Inspired pieces and their coordination is a given as you can't go wrong with this chic line.
  
• Loin Cloth – hip, cool, vibe for all types of individuals that dream and are ambitious. With the selection of comfort wear for the active and driven person you can be sure to find something that fits your fancy...the focus is on quality and offers the person who wants to have fun in life that chance when you put on one of their shirts or hats.
  
• Medium Apparel – borderless and global urban streetwear, need I say more. Attention to detail, quality and the creative word play in the messaging of the clothing makes this an unforgettable line. If you want to say it with clothing, no reason to go further, they got your number.
  
• Michelle Herbert – they are a favorite of an past emerging designer from last year and they truly represent visions of couture art and concepts that combine romance and elegance with details that cannot be duplicated. Every piece is artistic and requires recognition for the feelings they erupt as you experience their line.
  
• Proverbs by Efua – fashion for a cause...forward thinking creators towards making a difference to help end human trafficking. The dresses and scarves carry with them elegant simplicity that makes these designs adaptable from day to night and from business to fun just by adding accessories and complimentary pieces. Their message is clear and is for the conscious buyer.
  
• Stephanie Gentry – Urban chic with styles of vintage, Victorian and added embellishments make for a finely cut line. The highlights include the softer edges of dress designs and coordinating the unique styles. They definitely represent mastery of cloth and layered styles well.
  
• Trang Nguyen – Sleek silhouettes and chiffon are the signature for these designs. Classy and modern represent the styles that inspire luxurious lifestyles. Floral accessories also accentuate the line uniquely so you see elegance from head to toe.
  

Don't miss your chance at this experience of fashion destiny with Phoenix Fashion Week at Talking Stick Resort. Get your tickets today at Phoenix Fashion Week.  Stay connected for updates as the count down continues.

Into the Night With Fashion

Furne One Design

I'm not gonna lie.  Phoenix Fashion Week 2012 at Talking Stick Resort totally rocked this year.  With nine designers on runway every night, the anticipation of seeing what would be presented kept the energy high and the excitement heavy.  Furne One, the featured designer, from Dubai and known as designer to the stars dominated the final runway on Saturday night with the 31 piece collection that was masterfully displayed on local and international top models including America's Next Top Model, Raina Hein.

Collins College Designer

The entire team of Phoenix Fashion Week worked hard to deliver on every level.  Thursday proved they had done their job on marketing and promoting the event effectively as they were overwhelmed with attendance on the first night of runway which made the anticipation greater even for experienced fashionistas, media, photographers, and everyone behind the scenes.  The maturity in the Fashion Week program is obvious in that they worked effectively to manage the crowds and successfully place everyone who attended.  Talking Stick Resort only enabled success for this years show as the venue is highly compatible with they type of event program.  It allows that for every seat and standing room it's virtually impossible to have a bad view of runway.  The media lounge and the photographer's pit (House Photographers - Mikel Florman, Stella Crowl, Steve Trujillo, Rizalde Sherwood and Support Photography - Rosemary Woods) was filled to capacity and beyond.  The fan fare and followers showed representation of a strong and ever evolving program here in Arizona.  Brian Hill, the Executive Director for Phoenix Fashion Week, along with his strong front team of Brenna Moses, Christina Ziegler, Lauren Pfingstag and the rest of the supporting teams and ambassadors brought their best and demonstrated they can host a next level Fashion Week that is ground breaking, innovative, and full of the strongest and most talented designers and models from near to far.

Collins College Designer

The emerging designers ruled this week as this was their reward to the program that brought them to this final stage.  I had the amazing privilege of talking with each the emerging designers in advance of the actual week of runway and Shop Villa.  What I learned about each designer and what they brought to the runway with their 2013 Spring Collections was that they all put their heart and soul into what they delivered to the fanatical audiences that attended each night.  Even though it was crescendo structure from casual and trendy on Thursday night to glamorous and elegant Saturday night, every designer decorated the runway with textures, colors, patterns, structures, accessories, lace, embellishments, beads, and more.

Collins College Designer

Thursday night  Living Dreams, OfraStyle, Shawl Dawls, and Samantha Patterson presented their new lines with amazing colors and innovation in their designs that could actually complete ones wardrobe very simply with just their apparel.  Friday night  EYE Thread, JHaus, Paulie Gibson, and Sew Twisted Designs showed who was boss and rocked the runway with unique performance and style with luxury accessories and handbags to dramatic costume wear and don't forget the Denim and the Tribe men's line.  Saturday night Bri Seeley, ENVY by Khanh, Italia Rocks Couture, and Suzanne Lay finished the evening with bold, beautiful, sexy, colorful, glitzy and flowing beauty with splendor and magnificence across all the details.  I know people that could wear their clothes and that is a fashion statement.  Collectively, this group of twelve designers are ahead of all the rest and I am honored to have been present to see their celebration on stage for their passion and love of fashion and design.

Bri Seeley Design

The final words of congratulations have to go to the winner of the Emerging Designer competition, Bri Seeley.  Her line presented as if you were at a beautiful beach resort without a care in the world and you could feel the cool breeze of the ocean flowing on to you as you relaxed on your beach lounge chair.  Refreshing, soft, light, full of life and movement is the best way I can relate the feeling you have when visualizing Bri Seeley's line.  Stay tuned for Bri and the other emerging designer developings as I will continue to follow them in their progress and new launches.  Happy Phoenix Fashion Week 2012!!!!!!


Editor's Note:  More pictures to come!! Pending editing from photographers.

Fashionista Dreams in Style, Designer Article Series, Part 3

I recently wrote an article called “Fashion with a Cause” which described how those in fashion could make a difference in people’s lives especially those in need.  What if the scenario is reversed?  What if the Cause itself can actually drive one to create fashion that in the end will have the same result?  This article series is being written to allow you a sneak peek into the lives of some of designers that are part of the 2012 Phoenix Fashion Week.  The interviews comprise of candid discussions and questions asked of the designers and my interpretation of their answers.   The write-up will be a summary of the conversation.

EYE Thread fits the concept of an organization that has a cause.  Their beginning came from the roots of their desire to make a difference for individuals, communities, and the world.  What you don’t know is they did not originate with an idea to be in fashion but to help others and do things differently.  Their brand which is young and fresh starts with a communication of "Resource Integrity".  This is their commitment to no mass production, usage of products created and made in the USA, only responsible manufacturing, and support of independent artists and to create an economy in the USA.

 

They have considered all their moving parts and how everyone is impacted, the benefits, and created what can only be described as an innovative union of resources and design that strives to have a unique footprint in the fashion world.  As EYE Thread has evolved over the last year their focus has been on taking quality materials and creating functional luxury collection of couture styled accessories, custom designed to order bags, clothing and more.  They want you to "Express your own existence."  The artists and designers they work with have that chance and they encourage their customers to embrace that philosophy as well.  They are a brand the "celebrates the history of fashion."  Every piece comes from the soul and has the spirit of change built into it. 

Through their efforts, EYE Thread has included in their core structure, the art of giving back and supporting charities.  They offer their clients an opportunity to join their cause in many ways that we will discover this October at Phoenix Fashion Week. Their passion and love is sewn into everything they do as they support the philosophy behind being made in the USA.   EYE Thread makes the fashion world move.

 

Website:  http://www.eyethread.com/us/home.html

Twitter:  @EYEThread  

Fashionista Dreams in Style, Designer Article Series, Part 1

Fashion is not just a word or a description or a piece of clothing or an event.  For many it is life…and a way of life.  I have the extraordinary opportunity to share with you, a little part of something bigger than just an industry.  This article series is being written to allow you a sneak peek into the lives of some of designers that are part of the 2012 Phoenix Fashion Week.  The interviews comprise of candid discussions and questions asked of the designers and my interpretation of their answers.   The write-up will be a summary of the conversation.

Bri Seeley can be described as classic, quality, and fashionable.  All of these descriptions are exactly what she portrays in her designs as well as branding.  Her desire to create fashion and design started back to her earliest memories of when her Grandmother taught her how to sew.  There was no specific starting point or deciding point on her path, it was just always known to Bri that she would be in fashion.  Her first major design project turned out to be her Junior Year Prom Dress which comprised of Silver Satin, a train and off shoulder or one shoulder design she had professionally made.  When starting out, Bri realized that through just jumping in and sewing her creations was the easiest way to determine what worked and what didn’t.  Mistakes were part of the process to design and improve the designs.  From design to creation, Bri’s experience defines a six to eight week process and potentially more where custom designs come into play.

Bri’s idea of quality consists of two major items that she looks for immediately – 1) fabric content of the best quality and 2) construction quality in how the design is made.  Her favorite fabrics revolve around silk, cotton, and rayon.  Besides quality, the areas that matter most to Bri as a fashion designer are the items being made/manufactured completely in the USA and that the garments are designed to reflect femininity.  In Bri’s design practices, she absolutely would rather go straight to sewing a design and figuring out the appropriate modifications to make it work versus sketching out the entire design first.  Bri attributes gaining some of the best experience from her schooling and work abroad in Italy.  Two years of education and experience in Florence, Italy helped to shape Bri’s thought process and eventual decision to design in the manner she does.  Advice she wanted to share for up and coming designers just breaking into the industry is the importance of networking.  It is often times, not only what you know but who you know that can actually help make the difference in getting your brand recognized.

The inspiration for many of the designs comes from nature and historical vintage fashion.  Through this, the intent of the line is to really reflect the quality, classic looks, and then designs which are outside of the trends and stand uniquely on their own as well as being able to cross seasons and last for multiple years.  Including the fabrics of silk, cotton, and rayon, wool ends up being one of the other favorite fabrics she loves to use in the designs.  Her creations are art and she is truly an artist with a blank canvas when she starts to develop her designs.   Bri’s passion comes across strong and vivid with that feminine side being a uniquely embellished to make you appreciate the movements she creates in all her designs.

 

One cannot deny that Bri’s clothing line is special and she is going to create waves on the runway.  Looking forward to seeing more of the designs and having the opportunity to highlight and bring exposure to the Bri Seeley brand.

Photography by Shawn Kinney

Website:  http://www.briseeley.com/ , Twitter:  @BriSeeley

Hot, Bold, and Beautiful…Style in Action

If you want to talk about transformations, this years Phoenix Fashion Week is going to be on top with all the incredible designers being brought into the mix.  Here's the recap of the event on Thursday, June 21, 2012.

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Last week, not only was the heat on in Miami with the NBA Finals, but it ruled the space at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix on June 21, 2012 with the fashionistas out in style and the paparazzi photographers out to cover the next big announcement from Phoenix Fashion Week – Emerging Designers 2012!!  The excitement and the energy were strong as the anticipation built up in the pre-event gathering where heavy networking, pictures, and people watching took place.  There were designers, jewelers, and other fashionable attendees everywhere you looked. 

In their normal guided pace, Phoenix Fashion Week kept the crowd on its toes waiting until everything was just right and the moment the doors opened there was the frenzy to get to the right position to have the best views.  The Founder’s Room was the site where all would take place on this lovely night.  As always, there is plenty of media, fans, support, family and friends in the audience and it was standing room only once everyone was allowed into the room.  The organizers for the event began the night with the introductions and Brian Hill, Executive Director for Phoenix Fashion Week,  took his place at the helm and started the show. 

I always get goose bumps at these times as you are in place where history is being made with these types of events.  You get to see the past accomplishments and then begin to see the vision for the year and into the future at these times.  Brian did not disappoint anyone.   He started off making sure everyone was seated and began discussing , “The Experiment”.   More to come on that later.  A great message was delivered from the main sponsor for Phoenix Fashion Week, Balluun Inc. , who has developed a business collaboration and commerce network to rival all others.  They are very excited to be involved with these events and you will see more of them. 

Now to the highlights - the introductions of the emerging designers:    1) Bri Seeley was out the gate first with a blue and white flowing dress, 2) ENVY sauntered into the room with a black and white block design outfit that was bold, 3) EYE Thread rocked a very versatile, patterned, and lovely creation that just exuded confidence,  4) Italia Rocks Couture strutted with the classic chic long black dress couture style, 5) JHaus entered with a dynamic model wearing an innovative open back design, 6) Living Dreams shared a great message and the look and feel of paradise with the blue hue T-Shirt, 7) Ofra Style walked into what seemed like their fan club of support with an incredibly comfortable styled jumpsuit that has versatility, 8) Samantha Patterson demonstrated that Arizona does have more than one season with the classic simple skirt and blouse-jacket style with very nice cuts, 9) Sew Twisted Designs showed why they were twisted with a nice pairing of pants and top, 10) Paulie Gibson definitely included a unique styling and colorful array for their menswear model, 11) Shawl Dawls carried the catwalk with the stylish convertible and classic styling with the shawl and pants, and finally 12) Suzzane Lay showed another way you could lace it up with the purple flush dress.

You can see the designers and read more about them at their links on Phoenix Fashion Week’s page Emerging Designers 2012.  The night was not over with those introductions as SJ Couture talked about what the next steps and the journey was like based on their past experience.  Additional announcements were made and several successes were shared from the podium.   The last great information shared was that Miss Arizona USA (2011) Brittany Brannon, was there representing for her first major event of Phoenix Fashion Week as the new Fashion Host of PHXFW TV.  She was amazing and did a fabulous job as contributing host along with Brian Hill and the rest of the team.  Looking forward to a fantastic season with Phoenix Fashion Week!!!