Cincinnati Fashion Week kicks off TONIGHT with the Fall Fabulous event at Macy’s Kenwood! Enjoy shopping, pics on the CFW red carpet and meet local style bloggers in the blogger’s lounge. Yours truly will be in the lounge and also emceeing the fab fashion presentation featuring style challenges for the top trends in fall 2012! Oh, and the icing on this clothes horse cake… 25% off select merchandise in the womenswear and women’s Impulse departments. Also, Macy’s is giving away a free bottle of Macy’s Star PoweRed nail polish with any purchase. So excited! Don’t miss it!
The third annual Cincinnati Fashion Week is just around the corner, so mark your calendars! This year’s event will kickoff on Friday Oct. 5 with “Fall into Fabulous,” an in-store gala at the Macy’s Kenwood Towne Center where I will be hosting a fall fashion presentation!
This opening celebration will be followed by a week of fun and intimate events such as Labyrinth at the Cincinnati Art Museum, an exclusive look though the museum’s archives of haute couture guided by author and curator Cynthia Amnéus.
The shows start on Oct. 11 with RetroFittings by Saint Vincent Du Paul, featuring pieces put together by over 50 fashion design students from the University of Cincinnati. Oct 12, an In The Closet preshow—including a progressive runway presentation showcasing vintage haute couture from the Evolution studio—will lead into the 2012 Catwalk Centre fashion show. Festivities will conclude Oct. 13 with the Catwalk Centre, where models will be walking collections from established local designers as well as emerging talents.
Click here for the official schedule and ticket options.
Thanks to my intern Eric Cepela for his help putting this blog post together!
Saturday was the big finale show of Cincinnati Fashion Week (CFW) and it was like Christmas. I woke up like a little kid with a big smile on my face, hopped down the stairs, and pranced in front of the mirror holding up my new dress. I was so excited.
I had really done my homework on the designers this year. (I did a sneak peek of CFW designers here, here and here.) And I just got a really good vibe from new aspects of this year’s show versus last year’s. The venue, for example, made a dramatic difference. Last year, it was in a cookie-cutter event room in the Hilton. This year, it was a very raw space – in an unfinished floor of The Edge condos downtown – and it had a very underground “say the secret password to get in” feel to it. Much like a space you’d find a New York Fashion Week show taking place.
My sister-in-law, Melissa Scalia, who emceed CFW this year
My hubby and I get all dolled up, GPS it to the venue, get out of the car… and wouldn’t you know it, Mayor Mallory is walking down the sidewalk heading toward the show. So, we walk in with him, and find out he’ll be co-emceeing with my sister-in-law (Melissa Scalia who was the super fab emcee of the event!). So, several more great vibes about the night to come…
We were of course fashionably late, so the show started right after we got there. Looking back, I wish I had more time to brace myself. It was an incredible show and I’m still reeling. It was so difficult to choose my favorite looks from the show to share with you (watch the below video to see ALL the looks from the show, thanks to the talented Annette Navarro).
My husband Pete and I at CFW
Last year, I easily picked my top 10 favorite looks from the show. This year, I had a VERY difficult time narrowing it down to just 20 looks. That’s how good the show was! Below are the notes I took at the show about each designer and below that are my favorite looks in order of 20-1, #1 being my favorite. Enjoy!
Laura Dawson– oversized silhouettes, strong shoulders, 80s color palette Jonathan Mezibov – “cowboy chic” menswear, interesting mix of tux shirts with western belts/jeans/boots Amy Kirchen – (my overall favorite) designed a playful new paisley pattern, all the looks were made with the posh professional in mind Avani– eco friendly, Indian influences strong throughout collection, interesting necklines – even incorporated scarves onto garments Cala Ossidiana – has one- and two-piece suits, but excels at making one-piece bathing suits “chic,” customizes fit w/knots for couture fit, incorporates strategically placed sheer, color palette of solid pink/blue/teal Amanda Valentine– Nashville meets Egyptian meets African. You’ll find everything from denim to ethnic graphic prints in this collection. Melissa Tabor – (my new obsession) business professional chic, perfect for the work hard/play hard YP – business by day chic by night, Jackie O in front/party in the back, exposed zipper down the back of most backs Arbitrage – all items hand sewn by Josh Stevens, leather details, short sleeves, leather glove accent Lindsey Lusignolo– (I wish she would have gone last – it would’ve ended the show with a bang… she got a standing ovation.) intricate backs, formal/bridal, unique and fabulous cocktail attire Amaresinh– “boardroom cavewoman” (fur on shoulders/forearms/sleeves made silhouettes look a little monkey/neanderthalish), great color palette mix of black/gold/red, strong shoulders and graphic patterns, lots of sheer (a little too sheer for me to wear though, definitely saw some nip slips… okay for the runway, but it might be frowned upon in the workplace). : )
THE LOOKS
#20: Barefoot in the boyfriend’s shirt… I just love that this look was thrown in a menswear portion of the show. Reminds me of all the times I’ve run around the house in my husband’s clothes. Gives me inspiration to throw on a belt and some cowboy boots next time and make an outfit out of it.
#19: Collar me bad… The attached scarf-as-collar to this dress was just so interesting. I don’t know if I could personally pull this look off, but it really intrigued me. Keep in mind that, as Avni told Cincy Chic in her sneak peek interview, all these items are handmade and dyed using century-old methods. Ah-maz-ing.
#18: Knotty by nature… One of the things I learned in my interview with Anne Pachan, the brains and beauty behind Cala Ossidiana, is that these knots can be adjusted for the perfect couture fit. And I just love how her design actually makes a one piece swimsuit chic versus shlumpadinka.
#17: Jackie Ooooh My, look at that back!… This is the first of many Melissa Tabor looks in my “top 20” rundown. She’s definitely my new obsession. I love the “professional in front, party in the back” design (although it was a little big on this model). I could easily wear this to work. Every single day. Because I love it so.
#16: Pretty in Paisley… This is the new fabric print Amy Kirchen designed herself. Several pieces in this collection feature this fun print. My husband wants to get a vest made with this print on the back and a dress shirt made with it inside the collar and cuffs (I’ve trained him well!). I love the silhouette of this dress. Could be belted for a more fitted look, or flow freely as pictured (great for hot muggy Cincy summer days).
#15: Peekaboo LBD… Melissa Tabor gives this classic LBD a flirty twist with a slightly lifted front, cascading to the back, with a contrasting white fabric to add interest. What a great wardrobe staple.
#14: Singing the blues… I don’t sing, but I would if it would bring back this blue pinstripe ensemble. I love how effortless this “casually business casual” look is. I especially love the baby blue fabric peeking out of the back pockets. Nice touch.
#13: Get the scoop(neck)… I love the deep scoop on this neckline and the cute capped sleeves. I personally would have paired it with a statement necklace, but it’s one of those necklines that doesn’t need accessorizing. It’s a statement in and of itself.
#12: Falling in love… This is a great look for fall. I’m definitely going to steal this styling by belting an otherwise boxy longsleeve dress with a great pair of tall boots. The feminine ribbon is a nice touch to this thick fabric and structured silhouette.
#11: Like a glove… Arbitrage makes this one-glove look fit like, well, a glove. I really like the blue buttondown paired with this rust-colored leather jacket. The shorter sleeves give it a crisp look and draws attention to that statement glove.
#10: Jump(suit) to it!… Jumpsuits have the tendency to look a little silly if they aren’t done just right. Well, Amy Kirchen designed this one to perfection. From the feminine spaghetti strap, gathered neckline and belted waist, I’m in love from head to toe.
#9: Short sale… Just like the jumpsuit, shorts can go tragically wrong. But Amy brilliantly balanced out the sexy shorts with a billowing blouse. Amy must have designed this collection with the businesswoman in mind. I can literally see myself taking a client to a summertime lunch in this outfit. I’m going to justify the purchase of this outfit by all the sales I’ll make in it. See, it’s an investment.
#8: Sheer genius… A simple triangle string bikini taken to an extreme with a little sheer. So smart. Now, excuse me as I diet for the rest of my life to fit into this.
#7: White out… I don’t know what it is, but there’s something so special about this little white dress. It’s so classic, but with fun fashionable twists like the pockets. I want it. I need it. I must have it. “And your little broach, too!”
#6: Belt it out… I love the dress. But I love the way its belted even more. I would have never done that in a million years. But now that I see it styled that way, I’m completely wooed.
#5: Get the Dert… Denim + skirt = dert! I just made that up. But what I didn’t make up is how adorable this skirt is – love the piping! The sheer blouse and knitted sweater were also very cute. I wouldn’t have paired these colors or items together, but they really work!
#4: Silver lining… Light catches the outer tulle fabric of this couture cocktail dress, revealing a slim silhouette underneath. Gorgeous. I love how it looks simple and not overdone, but you’d clearly feel like an absolute princess in it.
#3: Tuxas… Tux shirt + western wear = Tuxas. Yes, I’m getting a little giddy (for good reason, we’ve almost reached the top of the list!). But this particular look ranks so high because: 1) the bold color choice is amazing. I love how it just jumps out at you and demands attention (as every metro man does). 2) pairing a tux shirt with wrangler-fit denim, a western belt and cowboy boots. I don’t know how, but it works.
#2: Birds of a feather… I’d flock to anyone wearing this cocktail dress, that’s for sure. The feathery bodice has a structured, yet satiny tan overlay. It’s like a buffet of contrasting texture. The overlay gives a beautiful hourglass figure, but the silhouette is essentially a classic strapless A-line dress. Love.
#1: Drum roll please… This look gave me butterflies. And I think I might have drooled a little bit. I just love ab-so-freakin-lutely everything about it. From the belted high-waisted pencil skirt in tan, to the structured yet sheer chiffon black blouse with barrel sleeves and ascot collar. Then bold black shades and a ravishing red lip. It’s a little Audrey, Marilyn and Jackie O… all weaved into this #1 look from Cincinnati Fashion Week!
Hope you enjoyed my top picks! Now, check out the video below to see all the looks from CFW to see which ones are best in your book!
Ilene Ross, my co-host on the Cincy Chic Show, interviewed Avni Trivedi, designer of the Boston-based Avni collection. Avni launched last year, has appeared at multiple national shows and will be featured in tonight’s Cincinnati Fashion Week finale show!
The collection is currently part of 212 Showroom NYC in New York City and is sold in boutiques across the country this year. Avni is also becoming a rising star among luxury eco-fashion labels because of the fabrics, materials and dye processes used in the manufacturing of the clothes.
According to her site: “Avni focuses on offering fashion collections that are environmentally responsible and support the centuries-old artisan cottage fabric-making industry in India. All Avni designs are crafted from fabrics that are commissioned exclusively by Avni. These fabrics are hand-made, utilizing customs that are hundreds of years old and uphold the tradition and history of India’s celebrated artisans. By requisitioning these fabrics, Avni not only helps maintain economic stability for artists, but also helps keep these ancient arts alive. All fabrics are 100% hand-dyed and woven by individual artists.”
Enjoy the webcast interview below with Ilene and Avni! And if you’re coming to the CFW finale, you’ll see her collection work the runway tonight!
Ilene Ross, my co-host on the Cincy Chic Show, interviewed Mary Zalla, the managing director at Landor Associates, who sponsored the Graphic Fashion event of Cincinnati Fashion Week. Check out the webcast of the interview below! And check out the photos I took at the event here on Cincy Chic.
Ladies – clear your cal on May 24. It’s the big day when Amy Kirchen opens the doors to her new fabulous shop in Milford, the Amy Kirchen Boutique!
Amy Kirchen Boutique (click to enlarge)
From 10am-8pm, she’ll host a Grand Opening Event, where you can sip on champagne, indulge in chocolate and shop to your heart’s content (sounds like heaven, right?!).
She has incredible cocktail dresses (I got a sparkly LBD for the Fashion Week Finale!), great tops and skirts for work (like what I’m wearing in the video below), accessories and handbags. And the prices range from $30-$200, so you’ll find something for you, no matter what your taste or budget might be. You’re going to love it!
Accessories at Amy Kirchen Boutique (click to enlarge)
Amy will also be featured in Cincinnati Fashion Week‘s finale event on Saturday. So, if you go, you’ll see her new line, which will also be carried in-store.
Amy also does custom couture gowns, too, so keep that in mind if you don’t find anything on the rack, you can have something custom made just for you!
I’ll see you at the grand opening – can’t wait! Check out the webcast below where Amy gives us a sneak peek of her new store and what you can expect at the grand opening on May 24!
Ladies, whether we want to believe it or not, bathing suit season is right around the corner.
Last night, I met up with my friend Anne Pachan, the creative director for Cala Ossidiana (a NY-based swimwear line she created), who’s in town for Cincinnati Fashion Week.
Anne is originally from this area, but she’s since moved to New York to pursue her dream of designing swimwear. It’s amazing – and you can see for yourself, as she’s one of the featured designers on Saturday!
When we chatted last night, she told me all about the latest color and cut trends for this year’s swimwear so you can heat things up this summer. Check out the video below!
Exciting news for you modeling mavens out there. The first casting call for Cincinnati Fashion Week is this Sunday at the Kenwood Mitchell’s Salon & Day Spa.
Sunday March 6. Arrive Between 10 AM – 12 PM
Models should come prepared for audition w/ heels.
Bring portfolio, or recent polaroids. Face shot & full length body.
One girl will be chosen to be our next “Face Of Fashion” winner & will receive a photoshoot by celebrity photographer Annette Navarro, with Vivian Moore and Phillip Saunders; representation by Wings Model Management; and the opportunity to appear in official Cincinnati Fashion Week campaign media. E-mail ModelOutreach@CincinnatiFashionWeek.com to register.
Last night I went to dinner with Nathan Hurst, the mastermind behind Cincinnati Fashion Week. When I got home, I found this press release in my inbox announcing the new look, programs and 2011 dates for Cincinnati Fashion Week! I love the new logo that Landor created (by the way don’t forget to check out the display they have in the Landor windows downtown! It’s tres cool!).
I’m very excited about this year’s Cincinnati Fashion Week and all that’s in store for it. Nathan really seems to have a great team helping him, it seems very well-planned out this year, and the programming is dynamite! There will be male focused events, a showing of a private collection of Japanese fashion, and art history programming (few people know about the important role Cincinnati had in the fashion industry decades ago).
Nathan said he’s dedicated to making CFW just as prestigious as the “big four” fashion weeks. From all I learned about CFW 2011, he’s going to be well on his way. I highly recommend marking your calendar for all of this year’s CFW activities – use a week of vaca if you need to – it’s going to be amazing.
New CFW logo, developed by Landor
Cincinnati Fashion Week 2011
New Look, New Programs, and More
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CINCINNATI – January 31, 2010 – CINCINNATI FASHION WEEK 2011 announces the second annual celebration of art, fashion and design to be held in the city of Cincinnati. Scheduled dates are Monday May 9 – Sunday May 15, 2011. Founded in 2009, the industry driven platform offers a unique opportunity to nurture the next wave of major design talent by establishing an on-going presence of global fashion in communities across the Midwest.
Now in its second year, the movement holds true to its promise to bring fashion, retail, and philanthropy to the Midwestern forefront of style. To build upon its early success, Cincinnati Fashion Week has fine-tuned the official event programming to include an even higher level of national and international talent, higher learning opportunities, and deeper connections with Midwest retailers.
In addition to the new programming, a new logo and branding has been created on behalf of Landor Associates Cincinnati, a leading strategic branding consulting and design firm. “The support of the inspirational team at Landor amongst a young fashion movement, has demonstrated a common wealth in the artistic community that reaches beyond success, beyond politics, talent, and beyond mediums; in fact, it catches creativity right at the spark of inspiration, when the best use of our talents is to share them and inspire others to do the same,” commented Cincinnati Fashion Week founder Nathan Hurst.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
“Fashion is a lifestyle which adapts on a personal level, and reflecting this message for 2011 was most significant. To truly bring fashion to the Midwest, we must continue to have a dialogue about how we view fashion in our lives,” commented Nathan Hurst, Founder & CEO of Cincinnati Fashion Week.
In 2011, Cincinnati Fashion Week will evolve with the community it helped to establish by delivering what may be the largest fashion industry driven production seen within the Central Midwest.
Guests of official events at Cincinnati Fashion Week will be guided through a week of fashion inspired events led by national & international figures in the fashion community, including couture collectors, media personnel, fashion designers, retail historians, and much more.
Complete itinerary to be released within the coming weeks.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT:
In addition to the new programming, a new logo and branding has been created on behalf of Landor Associates Cincinnati, a leading strategic branding consulting and design firm.
A full list of events will be released in the coming weeks. For more information about Cincinnati Fashion Week please go to www.cincinnatifashionweek.com
A FASHION MOVEMENT:
Cincinnati Fashion Week is a socio-economic campaign, designed to boost Cincinnati retail revenue, to support and retain young and professional talent, and to continuously raise awareness for Cincinnati’s prospering quality of life.
Cincinnati-based Independent Bridal & Evening Wear designer Lindsey Lusignolo is just one example of success in Midwest fashion.
After making her debut at Cincinnati Fashion Week 2010. Lindsey’s ability to infuse design elements from the roaring 20’s and glamorous 30’s, with cutting edge modernism and unconventional chic wearability, has made her a reoccurring name amongst socialites and brides across Greater Cincinnati. Lindsey’s production and showroom is scheduled for a Grand Opening in Spring 2011.
HOW IT BEGAN:
Cincinnati native, Nathan Hurst, created Cincinnati Fashion Week after making his national debut as an emerging fashion designer at San Francisco’s City Hall. Showcasing his then third collection, he realized the lack of a centrally based platform for professional talent and further, a lack of overall cultural awareness for fashion in the Central Midwest. Inspired by the opportunity to create a catalyst to deliver the excitement and thrill of fashion, design and retail, as noted by Cincinnati Mayor, Mark Mallory, Hurst launched the very first Cincinnati Fashion Week.
The excitement of fashion in the heartland of the Midwest went viral and soon a true “grass-roots movement” was born. Cincinnati Fashion Week produced a weeklong itinerary that drew attendance from over 2,500 fashion enthusiasts, gained 5,500 social-media followers and swept every corner of radio, television, print publications and online blog-sites featuring Midwest fashion & nightlife. The first year success established Cincinnati as a widely acclaimed fashion and lifestyle destination, paving the way for a Midwest Fashion Movement.
Bracelet designed by Azhand Shokohi (click to enlarge)
I’m starting a new Monday trend… on Fridays, I have “Fab-u-shoe Friday“… and now on Mondays, I’ll have “Marvy Accessory Monday.”
I actually don’t have a ton of clothes. I like to just stick with basics with the wardrobe, and then keep things fresh and fun with accessories. Belts, bags, necklaces, earrings and bracelets, oh my!
So, when I have some accessories worth sharing, I’ll do so with this new Marvy Accessory Monday! Today, I’m sharing an accessory made by local designer, Azhand Shokohi.
I first learned about Azhand at Cincinnati Fashion Week. She did the jewelry in my #5 favorite look at the show. I met her for coffee just to learn more about her and that’s when I fell in love with this bracelet.
She made it from Italian yarn, added sparkle with a vintage broach, and … get this… a reclaimed piece from a chandelier! Each piece is unique and one-of-a-kind because she uses vintage items and hand-makes each one.
So, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece, and have a couple hundred bucks to spare on a local artist, I suggest you look her up to get your own marvy accessory!
