Posts tagged fashion show
Define: Beauty Fashion Show – A Socially Responsible Event
13 years ago
Groundwork Opportunities (GO) is a nonprofit organization that funds income generating projects in the developing world. GO hosts a handful of philanthropic events each year, and last month I had the pleasure of attending their event: Define: Beauty at Madrone Studios in San Francisco. The show featured Bay Area up-and-coming designers Dallas Parke and Sarah Liller along with established fashion names: Retrofit Republic, Cari Borja, Ken Chen, MENK, Kajan Padraig and Daniel Sudar. The collections were gorgeous, and the show (produced by Clarissa Nicosia) was entertaining, but the evening’s goal was much more serious: to raise enough money to fund a sustainable clean water well for over 4,000 people in Tanzania.
The runway show began promptly at 7:30 after cocktail hour with wines from Rock Wall Wine Company, and hors d’oeuvres by Beast and the Hare. The collections looked stunning against the venue’s white interiors. Trendy dresses by Kajan Padraig, chic and girly silhouettes by Sarah Liller, urprisingly interesting gender-bending ensembles from Retrofit Republic and menswear from Daniel Sudar were stand-outs of the evening.
Here are some of our favorite looks from the show. Photography by Jayson Carpenter.
Kajan Padraig
MENK
Retrofit Republic
Sarah Liller
Ken Chen
Daniel Sudar
Cari Borja
Dallas Parke
Inspiration for Define: Beauty came to the GO team while working with residents in Moshi, Tanzania to build a sustainable source of clean drinking water. While there, the team was met with unparalleled levels of hospitality and selflessness from a community that existed without everyday resources like clean water. The women of Moshi did not attribute beauty to the latest styles but rather inner strength and contributions to better the community. This experience lead to the concept and creation of first annual event to help impact an insurmountable global water crisis.
Not only was the fashion show itself amazing, Define: Beauty partnered with local sponsors and entrepreneurs that are actively engaged in generating awareness and solutions to environmental issues around the world. Some companies at the event were: Falling Whistles, which fuels awareness for violence in the Congo, and Hydros Bottles, who reduce the amount of plastic in landfills by producing reusable BPA-free water bottles that can filter on the go. Hydros Bottles also shares Groundwork Opportunities’ mission to combat the global water crisis in developing nations and has partnered with Engineers Without Borders to create Operation Hydros, where purchase proceeds go towards providing clean drinking water abroad. Fashion partner, Gilt City San Francisco, has an exclusive e-commerce site where members can access trendy local deals and services. The goodie bags for Press were stocked with all sorts of goodies including a bottle of California white wine from Rock Wall Wine Company, $100 work for hair treatment at CODE Salon!
Mira Mira Fashion Show at Pretty Pretty Collective
13 years ago
Last Thursday was a great night for fashion in San Francisco. There were two great fashion shows taking place at different ends of the Mission. I didn’t get to attend the Mira Mira lookbook show, but I got access to some great pictures thanks to my friend of fashion Joanna Riedl.
Mira Mira is a boutique in the Mission (next door to Pretty Pretty Collective). They specialize in high-end independent designs from around the world. It’s no surprise that the lookbook they put together for last weeks fashion show had some really compelling looks, and an uber fashionable crowd of local bloggers for the viewing. In addition to real models, the show featured three of my favorite local fashion bloggers as models: Blair from Atlantic-Pacific, Jennie from Going West, and Laura from ontheracks.
Take a look at some of the great pieces that came down the runway.
Photos courtesy of Kurt Manley and Dan Zaslavsky.
Not Your Grandmother’s Crochet
13 years ago
Seductive, crochet cocktail dresses. Intricately textured wedding gowns. Face framing shrugs and shawls, pleated and laced.
If you want a statement couture dress, you want Violetta Vieux.
The Fabulous Ms. Vieux. Photo: Wild Plum Photography
We sat down for a chat over lattes, just days before her debut in the Couture runway show of the all new San Francisco Fashion Week. Serious Excitement!!
I first met Violetta at FIDM: me as a lowly fashion design student, she as the new draping instructor from Moldova by way of Paris, where she earned her Masters in Couture and Creative Patternmaking from ESMOD International Fashion University. Frankly, I was intimidated. I knew she spoke 5 languages, had stacks of awards, worked in couture houses, and probably dreamed up more amazing designs in her sleep than I could in a year. She also turned out to be one of the nicest people alive. I consider it serious good fortune that I got to be under her tutelage. ( She was also amazingly patient with my borderline seamstress skills.)
Fast forward to a sunny morning in downtown SF, where I got the lowdown on her company VioGemini and the upcoming shows.
Textured mermaid gown in satin from VioGemini. Photo: Wild Plum Photography
Violetta is flush with triumph at finding the music for the show just that morning- an ethereal, haunting piece that perfectly evokes the themes of the new bridal collection: winter, ice, the intricacy of snowflakes and clouds.
Embellished satin gown from VioGemini. Photo: Wild Plum Photography.
” I wanted to present something fresh and original for every bride, as well as continue to explore singular textures” she says – a hallmark of her previous award-winning crochet work. She has a wonderful approach that any modern bride can appreciate; a “design-it-yourself” concept that is realized through several functional pieces that can either be worn together or separately, depending on the occasion. Adding to the customizable nature of the collection, each piece is offered in a variety of colors( yow color!), fabrics, silhouettes, and lengths, with several options for detailing. Rounding out the collection is a full complement of accessories including shrugs, boleros, ring pillows, veils, corsage flowers, shoe-clips, hairpins,and garters—made with matching fabrics and rhinestones.
Crochet wedding gown from VioGemini. Photo: Wild Plum Photography.
I say, “Brides- to- be, get on this like white on rice!” Don’t miss the full collection being shown during San Francisco Fashion Week: Runway #3, Couture/Avant Garde.
Having already been down the aisle, I think I’ll go for the cocktail version
Crochet, fur and metal cocktail dress by VioGemini. Photo: Wild Plum Photography
No wall flowers in LBD’s here! The craftsmanship and creativity continue to amaze. This, my lovelies, is fashion.
For more on Violetta, check out her interview in San Francisco’s 7X7
Need a fresh look at fashion? Come say hello at Downright Red!
San Francisco: Are you ready for Black V?
13 years ago
A FundRaiser Event for The Foundation of City College, a 501(c)(3) organization. All proceeds will be donated to the Fashion Production Class, at City College of San Francisco, in celebration of its 10th year anniversary.
A Fashion Event. Featuring: Jay Nicolas Sario (Project Runway), HOMME by Dahae Kim, LHC Couture, Cari Borja, MENK, Ken Chen SF, GB Shrive, and Phuong My. Accessory Design: Kaatje, Guzel, and Eugene Huang.
A Masquerade. Dress up in black and wear a mask. Make an appearance and disappear in the night. Eyes. Wide. Shut.
SATURDAY | MAY 21, 2011 | 6 PM/730 PM | 1417 15TH STREET SF, CA
Coveted BLACK V tickets are $20 (with reserved runway seating):
For more information visit blackvsf.com.
Q and A with SF Based Fashion Designer Jess Lindgren
13 years ago
I’ve been fortunate enough to know Jess Lindgren for all my life since she’s my older sister. I have fond memories of putting on fashion shows in our backyard as young girls. It’s been a lot of fun to watch her grow into the stylist and designer she is today with her self titled label Jess Lindgren. She’s gives me a lot of outfit advice, helpful pointers, and recaps of the best fashion trends. I can’t even begin to count the number of times she’s outfitted me for parties and events.
Here are a couple of questions and answers with Jessi Lindgren, my sister.
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
It kind of just happened. I’ve always been into clothing, but actually designing and making clothes started a few years back when my parents gave me a sewing machine for Christmas. Since then I’ve been making clothing for my sister and myself. Anytime we have an event or family function to attend I make our dresses!
But, I used to make clothes for my Barbie’s – maybe you could say my interest in fashion design started back then!
Style Bust: What is your philosophy on fashion?
I’m a believer in wearing the old with the new. Trends can be very uniform looking which is why I love mixing a trend with something classic or vintage. Mixing adds a little character and personality to an outfit. Though, I’d say above anything else, its most important to wear whatever makes you feel good!
Style Bust: Where and what did you study in college?
I took some classes at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Upon learning how awesome San Diego was, I transferred to FIDM in San Diego and studied Merchandise Marketing.
Style Bust: Are you working on your fashion line full-time? If not, what else do you do for work?
Unfortunately for me, designing clothes doesn’t pay the bills. You’ll find me at the Woodhouse Fish Co. most days, serving some amazing lobster rolls and other seafood goodies! And you can read my weekly blog posts right here at Stylebust.com.
Style Bust: What’s your favorite part about designing?
It’s really rewarding to have an idea, buy some fabric and in the end be able to say, “wow, I actually made this!”. It’s exciting to see someone wearing your designs!
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
I’m designing a resort-wear collection that has a bohemian vibe. And for once, you’ll see NO black!
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
My inspiration for the color story comes from a photograph my boyfriend took on our drive back from Stanislaus Forest. It just finished raining and the colors were absolutely gorgeous. As far as my designs go, I was inspired by rockstar girlfriends from the 70’s (Bianca Jagger, Francoise Hardy, Jane Birkin – you get the picture).
Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
I don’t think anyone should attend the Give Back Gala just to see my collection, I think people should come out and support two great charities and see some extremely talented and hard-working designers!
Style Bust: How can people learn more about your designs?
You can visit my website: Jess Lindgren (thanks to Nicole and Tyler for hooking me up)! Or email me [email protected]
Interview with Sacramento Based Fashion Designer Tiana Vega
13 years ago
Tiana Vega is my favorite thing about Sacramento, California. She is upbeat and a ton of fun to be around. Her personality comes through in her unique self titled clothing line Tiana Vega. I’m looking froward to working with her for the upcoming Give Back Gala fashion show.
Here’s a couple of questions and answers with Tiana.
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
I have always had an eye for fashion. My infatuation in the fashion industry stems from my the early years of my childhood so I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up. After high school I attended FIDM where I got my degree and have been working freelance ever since!
Style Bust: What did you think about the fashion school experience?
I attended FIDM in Los Angeles to obtain my degree in fashion design, my experience there was nothing short of amazing! I met a lot of great people who I still keep in contact with! It’s always fun to see what everyone else is doing with their experiences they’ve gained after school!
Style Bust: Are you working on your fashion line full-time?
Yes I am. This is my job…I eat, breath and live for designing! I couldn’t see be happier doing anything else.
Style Bust: How long have you been designing fashion as an independent designer?
I have been designing fashion as an independent designer for about 2 years now.
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
The collection has a 1940’s flair with intricate beading and beautiful style and cuts in each piece.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
This collection is actually inspired by my grandmother who passed away in November, I was close with her and so losing her was pretty hard on me and my family…but I decided to use her sense of elegant and graceful style to inspire me to create a beautiful collection dedicated to her and the beautiful woman she was.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
Well this collection has a fresh new take on the following seasons coming up, so if you’re a fashionista and you are always looking for new and exciting fashion forward pieces, than coming out to the fashion is a must!
Style Bust: What have been some of your biggest accomplishments as a designer?
One of my biggest accomplishments was when I teamed up with a nonprofit know as Sweet Dreams Foundation and produced one of the largest fashion shows in Sacramento, raising a good amount of not only publicity for our charity but the money they needed to help a local child get the remodeled room she had always wanted.
Style Bust: Where can people find out more about your collection?
To learn more about me and my designs you can go to my website at www.tianavega.com.
Q and A with SF Based Fashion Designer Jennifer Ly
13 years ago
I’ve been working with Jennifer Ly over the past couple months in preparation to the Give Back Gala, which she will be participating in as a designer. I’ve asked her a couple of quick questions to help our readers get to know here before the big event!
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
Completely by chance, although I’ve always been interested in fashion even at the earliest age of my life. I actually majored in Computer Science before deciding to pursue fashion.
Style Bust: Where did you study, and what did you think about the fashion school experience?
I studied at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in San Francisco. My school experience was fast and intense. My teachers were amazing and pointed me in the right direction to reach my full creative potential. I really owe a lot of what I’ve accomplished in my career to me stepping stones at FIDM.
Style Bust: You’re working full-time at Gap Inc. Can you tell us a little bit about your role there?
I’m currently a Designer for OLD NAVY. I design all the denim and woven bottoms for girls ages 5-16. I design all silhouettes, washes and finishes, and manage all product from development to production.
Style Bust: How long have you been designing fashion as an independent designer?
I haven’t been designing fashion as an independent designer at all. Upon graduating from FIDM I got several freelance design gigs and never really had the time to focus on my own work. This collection is my first I’ve ever done.
Style Bust: Describe the collection you’ll be showing at the Give Back Gala.
My collection is playful and quaint. I love the use of clean lines with a variety of textures and mixed symmetry. The color palette is soft with tones of white, grey, blk and mauve.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
The collection was inspired by whimsical winter snow. I was inspired by 70’s silhouettes and early roman body adornment.
Interview with Indu Arora of RockChiq
13 years ago
Indu Arora is an established designer in South Bay who makes very high quality, tailored women’s clothing under the label RockChiq. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with her during this year’s Give Back Gala, which will be held on April 2nd at the J.W. Marriott in San Francisco.
I spent some time with Indu for an interview, enjoy!
Style Bust: How did you get into fashion design?
I was artistic and sketchy form young age, that’s when my mother taught me how to sew. My elementary/middle school back in India had students from almost all parts of world. I remember a student named Uday from Africa, Arman from Iran, Urmi from London. At this school we had a global fashion scene in one place. My Passion for fashion developed at young age.
Style Bust: Where and what did you study in college?
I am self-taught in this discipline. Back in India; where I come from, I was majoring in medicine. I went through a career change into fashion when I came to USA.
Style Bust: Are you working on RockChiq full-time?
Yes I am working full-time for fashion although this line is financially supported by my parent company Indu Fashion Services Inc. A California corporation providing designing and production services to other start-ups.
Style Bust: How long have you been designing as an independent fashion designer?
I have designed for the past 3 years.
Style Bust: You are an established Bay Area designer, tell us about your journey.
I migrated to USA in 1998 after getting married. As I mentioned earlier, I was majoring in medicine back in India. That same year, the HBO show Sex and the City aired its first season, and I instantly fell in love with the fashion scene of the sitcom. It was so inspiring I made up my mind to chase my passion for fashion and take it to next level.
I started freelancing my designs to independent clients. One day a client on the East Coast called and asked me to handle their denim line. I accepted the project. By this time, I had made few connections back in India with manufacturers and such. That started my parent company Indu Fashion Services Inc. Today I have 8-10 steady clients whose entire line of clothing from sampling to production is handled by me.
That became the base of financing for my Ready to Wear line for women under the brand name RockChiq which launched in year 2008. I roll out two collections annually during the Summer and Fall. I am placing myself in Boutiques in and around Bay area since last year . The response has been good and I am getting buyers attention. I’ve recently been invited to take part in the FOCUS Apparel & Accessories Show as an emerging brand. This show goes hand in hand with LA Fashion Week.
Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
This collection is all about high end evening dresses and gowns.
Style Bust: What inspired this collection?
The inspiration for this collection is basically San Francisco fashion crowd. We see such crowds in many small and big fashion shows all around SF Bay area. High end social events and parties such as those hosted by Trendy Lime are good examples of my inspiration. In a timely fashion some of the very high-end parties and events. I always add to my clients list every time I have attended their parties.
Style Bust: Style Bust: Why should people come out and see your work at this show?
My designs are very tailored high-end look .I put my passion into it. If any one is looking for high end sophisticated, colorful eclectic evening dresses and gowns; this is the collection to see as you will find something for yourself.
Style Bust: Where can people find your clothing?
My collection sis visible online at www.rockchiq.com. On my ecommerce site: Pink Weave. They can buy it at four stores where I am retailing from RAGS CO-OP and LOFT in SF, Isabellas’s boutique in Sunnyvale, Ayurvastram in Los Altos.
Check out Indu’s interview on Joonbug Glam Damn It!
