A Very Merry "Fashion's Night Out"

Thursday, September 8, 2011:
It can be said that anything Anna Wintour creates/endorses/promotes turns into fashion gold.  Well - I said it ... not sure if you agree - but seriously?  That women is a powerful fashion genius.  Moving on..

In New York - 2009 - Ms. Wintour (be polite - or she'll eat you) - started "Fashion's Night Out", "as a means to encourage consumers to shop and support the fashion industry during the tough economic climate." (wikifashion)  Now, just two years later, FNO is celebrated in over 250 cities (and in NYC alone, over 1000 retailers continue the new tradition.)  

This year - Chicago was no exception - with events popping up all over town to celebrate our love of fashion.  Michigan Avenue was buzzing with stylish fetes this year - as was Oak Street and so many other retailers across the city.  (In fact, the new TOPSHOP|TOPMAN opened to the public on September 8th - which Chicago clearly has a huge crush on already.)

I was honored to be able to attend The 900 Shops FNO event called "Fame, Fashion & Flavor: 900's Night Out" - which was hosted by ... waaaaaait for it:  THE Brad Goreski. *swoons - passes out - hits head - dreams of Brad - wakes up again to continue writing this post* ... Where was I?  Oh yes ... the event was also sponsored by my buds at CS Magazine, the wonderful women at Julie Watson Style, Gilt City, Fig Media (shout out to my favorite fashion DJ - Megan Taylor!), Event Creative, eDrop-Off (who had an amazing photo booth), Agency Galatea (so proud of my girls and guys!) and many other fantastic local businesses that gave their time, energy and services to make this outstanding event come to life.  The result?  An absolute fashion success - and in my opinion - one of the best parties on the Avenue.  (Biased?  Maybe - but I don't lie - so that makes me right.)

(L) Brad & Paige Ann Peterson ... (M) Kelli Zink & Brad ... (R) Candace Jordan & Brad

Agency Galatea Guys and Girls with Brad Goreski:

 (L) Briana, Brad & Katie ... (M) Saba & Nick ... (R) Brad and Josh:

 (L to R - Back Row) Josh, Nick, Mike & Thomas

(Front Row) Julie Watson & Annie Barlow

Once my models had walked the runway and the event was settling down - I joined a group of friends to head over to support one of my favorite Chicago shops - Sofia Vintage on Oak Street.  We walked over (everyone looking dashing - like it was Fashion Christmas) to check out who was "Living Lovely" at 72 East Oak.  We arrived and were greeted by many familiar faces.  I ran into one of my favorite Chicago fashion photographers, Bryan Whitely - and then was thrilled to see the lovely Ciara Newby.  We went outside to get some air (Sofia was hoppin!) and ran into Mr. Ian Doran - who had just come from work at Jack Spade (lucky.)  The crowd outside was fantastic - such a mix of styles and conversations and handshakes.

As I departed for home, I decided to leave my headphones in my pocket and take it all in.  I strolled up Oak Street and then continued South on Rush.  Everywhere I looked, there were glimpses of fashion - like an entire city had taken an extra few minutes to put on something
special this evening. The city was buzzing with an energy that was quite different than any other day when I have walked these streets. I smiled as I strolled, a bit slower than normal - hands in my pockets, grinning like a child on Christmas morning.


Only - this was different - this was Fashion Christmas...


...and this perfectly stylish night was my gift.


Happy "Fashion's Night Out", Chicago.


Truly,


R.M.B.


P.s.  To check out my FNO interview with Chicago 3 Media, click HERE.   (:

Merry Fashion Christmas to ME.

CS Magazine & Macy's Present: The Chicago Fashion Incubator Designers Show - Past & Present

Tuesday, October 19, 2010:

After a few hours of sleep and a full day of work it was officially time to start the Fashion Focus festivities!  I tightened the bowtie, met my roommate Todd Starr Smith and my Boss Marie P. Anderson and we hopped a cab to Millennium Park.  Once we arrived, Kiran Advani saved us from the daunting line and showed us to our seats.  There we were - sitting in the press section, ready to have a look at the Chicago Fashion Incubator:  Past and Present Show.  This, the first of the runway shows at Millennium Park, was presented by CS Magazine and Macy's and featured looks from the 2008-2010 past CFI designers:  Anna Hovet, Jess Audey, Nora del Busto, Agga B. Raya, Lidia Wachowska, Kate Coxworth and Kristin Hassan - followed by collections from the current designers-in-residence at the CFI:  Leah Fagan, Christina Fan, Stephanie Kuhr, Donaldo Smith, Miriam Cecilia Carlson and Jonnie Rettele.

The show began with collections from past designers (followed by the current collections) and we saw 103 looks glide down the runway.  I was able to scribble some thoughts for each of the collections and below is my take on what I saw from each.  Special thanks to Dean Paul for his fantastic photography.  Here we go!

Past CFI Designers:

Kristin Hassan:

Kristin Hassan - Illinois Institute of Art - Chicago alumni and former contestant on The Fashion Show - sent out a collection of playful dresses with a flirty feel to each.  Her embellishments, such as handmade headpieces, exposed zippers and over-the-top broaches adorned her looks.  Volume and polka dots were key to her collection.

Kate Boggiano (Kate Coxworth):

 

Kate Coxworth of Kate Boggiano played with tailored pieces that whispered of sweetness.  Her fringe details and over-sized collars offered a hint of personality and fun to these somewhat business-like looks.  She focused on deep necklines and simple details to add a softer sex appeal to her collection.

Evil Kitty (Lidia Wachowska):

Lidia Wachowska of Evil Kitty gave us a pretty collection that screamed of a rocker chick.  This conflicting idea worked for this collection adorned with spikes, lace and safety pins.  Her silk cocktail dresses and striped details gave a tough feel to your ordinary dress.

Agga B. (Agga B. Raya):

Agga B. Raya of Agga B. is quickly becoming one of my favorites from this year with her stacked fabric dresses and powerful silhouettes.  Any high-powered business woman would die to wear her fur adorned looks and origami cut dresses.  Here is a designer with a strong point of view and the talent to make waves in the industry.

Anna Hovet:

Anna Hovet constructed a series of tunics, tops and rompers in soft pastels - with touches of black for contrast.  Her 'geek chic' theme was represented with big eye glasses and fingerless gloves that climbed up the models' arms.  Her soft silhouettes and futuristic sportswear looked comfortable and easy to wear.

Nora del Busto:

Nora del Busto showed the crowd a collection of detailed dresses full of interest.  Her cut-outs, exposed zippers  and weaved fabrics gave the garments an extra level of designer touches.  She added splashes of fuchsia and busy patterns to make her looks stand out.

Audey (Jess Audey):

Jess Audey of Audey designed an earthy, pretty collection of dresses and skirts with volume, color and pattern.  Her collection was sweet and modest with a country girl feel to it.  The models couldn't help but smile as they walked down the runway wearing her dresses - in cowboy boots, no less.

Current CFI Designers-in-Residence:

C/FAN (Christina Fan):

Christina Fan of C/FAN - who is known for her solid-colored basics that easily transform from day to night - has gone a bit tropical (and I love it.)  Her collection this time around featured beautiful sunsets and beach scenes on chiffon - breaking away from the C/FAN norm, while still keeping the essence of the flowing, easy-to-wear looks that Christina is known for.

Killian Gui (Donaldo Smith):

Donaldo Smith of Killian Gui - one of two menswear designers-in-residence - sent out a collection of woven shirts full of extra details.  Pearl buttons, raglan sleeves and pinstripes adorned his collection of well-made shirts.  He played with color-blocking and Gingham check to add variety and a smart feel to his collection.

Alidade (Leah Fagan):

 Leah Fagan of Alidade constructed an array of blouses, pants and cardigans that are easy to wear and comfortable.  Her classic looks and asymmetrical cuts added ease to her collection and her cool color palette offered a fresh breath of air to her line.

Dottie's Delights (Stephanie Kuhr):

Stephanie Kuhr of Dottie's Delights always has vintage on her mind.  This was clear in her sexy collection of bras, girdles and garters that made the audience take notice.  She added pops of red and spiral details on bras to attract attention to all the right places.

Nonnie Threads (Jonnie Rettele): 

Jonnie Rettele of Nonnie Threads has an eye for menswear (and for what I personally like).  Her collection featured interesting cuts and layered looks that left me wanting more.  The fitted wovens, slim-fit pants and collared vests added interest and depth to her stellar collection.  One of my faves.

Miriam Cecilia (Miriam Cecilia Carlson):

Miriam Cecilia Carlson of Miriam Cecilia was the closing collection of the show - and she did so with a 'bang'.  Her short dresses and long gowns feature mica - a mineral she hand-mines and uses to add detail to her dresses, or to make necklaces to perfectly complement her looks.  Her white and plum strapless gown with a train (shown above) was the perfect choice for her finale - gorgeous!

 _______________________________

I hope you enjoyed having a look at the collections that hit the runway this past Tuesday from the past and present Chicago Fashion Incubator designers.  Congratulations to all the designers for their hard work and dedication.  Designing a collection takes focus and determination and all of you continue to make Chicago proud and the world take notice.

Until next year!

Truly,

R.M.B.

**ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEAN PAUL**

CS Magazine Presents: The Exclusive Calvin Klein & Carson Pirie Scott Pop-Up Shop

Thursday, September 30, 2010:

I arrived early with Julie Darling and Justin Meister at 116 West Hubbard Street for the VIP opening of the first-ever Chicago Calvin Klein pop-up shop.  We were greeted by the stunning Samantha Saifer - Director of Marketing for CS Magazine (the official media partner for the event) - who whisked us in to grab a drink and catch up.  The 1600 square foot space had been transformed into a hip shopping heaven, filled with the best of CK's threads.  The brand had partnered with Carson Pirie Scott to launch the week-long endeavor, open to the public the next day for perusing and purchasing.  

 Photo courtesy of Stuart Rogers Photography

Adorning the racks were fall looks for both men and women, hand-picked by Calvin Klein's Global Creative Director, Kevin Carrigan.  I had the opportunity to speak with Kevin for a moment to discuss the pop-up shop.  He was very proud of the venture, stating that the line featured in the shop was an advertising pull - meaning every piece you see in CK ads were made available in the shop for the public.  (Nothing is worse than trying to buy a garment from an ad, only to discover that the retailer doesn't carry it in that location!)  He went on to tell us about the planning for the shop and his involvement in designing the interior and merchandising the beautiful space.  Finally, Kevin shared with us some top secret information about future shop endeavors - which I must keep to myself.  Wouldn't want to anger the forces that be at Calvin Klein!  The event was an absolute blast and I was so happy to run into some of my favorite people, including James Goeke, Justin Jacobson (Platinum Events), Melissa Maynard De Kerch (Factio Magazine), Jenny Berg (BizBash), Agga B. (designer and stylist) and William Braggadocio (Men's Street Fashion - ChicagoNow) - among others!  I'm sad to say that the shop has now come and gone, but Chicago is full of fantastic places to find your Calvin's.  Unfortunately, you may not get to sip champagne while you try them on. 

Cheers, Chicago!

Truly,

R.M.B.

Kevin Carrigan:

Photo by Sebastian Biedron, Your Trendy Magazine
What's better than great shoes and CS Magazine?:

Photo courtesy of Stuart Rogers Photography

Justin Meister, Alia Rajput, Julie Darling, Ryan M. Beshel:

 Photo by Sebastian Biedron, Your Trendy Magazine
Buys for the Guys:

 Photo courtesy of Stuart Rogers Photography

Justin Meister, Julie Darling, Ryan M. Beshel:

 Photo courtesy of Stuart Rogers Photography

CS Magazine & The CFI Present 'The Don Julio Loft' Event

Wednesday, July 7, 2010:

CS Magazine and all my favorite friends and designers in the Chicago Fashion Incubator (CFI) partnered with Don Julio tequila to throw a fabulous summer event.  'The Loft', as it was known, was located in a gorgeous, somewhat hidden space off Grand and Damen.  Chicago's fashionable and influential industry pros all showed up to support the designers in residence.  The task?  To design a look inspired by Don Julio. 

 

I arrived with Paige Peterson and was greeted by friend and CFI designer, Miriam Cecilia Carlson and soon had the pelasure of running into all of the designers including Jonnie Rettele, Leah Fagan, Stephanie Kuhr, Donaldo Smith and Christina Fan.  During the course of their residence I have had the chance to speak with many of these up and coming designers and have been honored to follow their journey.  I am not only impressed, but inspired by the dedication, hard work, and incredibly long hours that they have all spent in the CFI studio.  It was truly a night just for them, and they deserved every minute of it.  Keep it up, my friends!  Chicago is a fashion force to be reckoned with!

Truly,

R.M.B.

 Paige Peterson, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, 

 Abby Zupancic & Ryan M. Beshel

Some of the designs from the CFI designers:

 

 

 CFI designers and friends:

 

 Photo Booth at the party!