Envision Spring 2015

Ah, Envision...the highlight event of each fashion season in the Twin Cities.  Clear skies and a warm sun setting over downtown Minneapolis created the perfect spring evening to celebrate the season's best in local fashion.  

Set in Orchestra Hall on May 2, the event consisted of two runway segments showcasing local designers and boutiques, with music and art before, after, and in between.  

The Atrium/VIP Room featured several artists creating new works for sale via silent auction, proceeds going to Public Functionary.  I noticed that this season, the artists works were the only items up for auction (as opposed to donated/sponsored gift sets and services) and that there were more artists.  

Also new this season was the addition of a pop-up shop.  Locally based online retailer Hotrocity had a bunch of accessories for sale in their pop up, including some items that walked the runway. Hotrocity carries Cynthia Rae, Objects & Subjects, Koon Yai, Hardt, and other Minnesota based accessory and clothing designers.

Hotrocity pop-up shop at Envision Spring 2015.

Hotrocity pop-up shop at Envision Spring 2015.

The runway background was a beautiful floral sculpture, really bringing home the idea of tying together fashion and art. 

Introduction to Envision.

Introduction to Envision.

Tricia Khutoresky, the curator at Public Functionary, kicked off the event in a stunning white maxi-dress with perforated leather top.  

Trisha in a white maxi dress hosting Envision. 

Trisha in a white maxi dress hosting Envision. 

She was excited by the support for Envision but reminded us that all the art and inspiration being showcased is made possible by local artists and businesses, and that if we like what we see, we should continue to support them.   

She was also excited by the fact that Beyonce’s tour DJ would be providing thing the music for the runway segments and the after party.  DJ Monsieur Adi worked with the designers to put together a set for each collection, another something different for Spring 2015. 

Part I: 
Emah Ellie Hottinger 
House Of Ginamarie + Mienkielo 
Yevette Willaert
Kjurek 
Idle Child 

EMAH by Ellie Hottinger 

Floaty white dress by EMAH from Ellie Hottinger.

Floaty white dress by EMAH from Ellie Hottinger.

House of Ginamarie + Mienkielo 
Loved how their collaborative looks were so sharp, but also seemed so effortless. 

Look by House of Gina + Marie and Mienkielo.

Look by House of Gina + Marie and Mienkielo.

Yevette Willaert 
I loved the fun spring prints and even more love Yevette’s dedication to sustainable style.  Her line and her philosophy are very in tune with mine, that supporting socially and environmentally conscious clothing is important for the betterment of the world and it doesn’t have to be boring. 

Excellent pattern mixing on this look by Yevette Willaert.

Excellent pattern mixing on this look by Yevette Willaert.

Kjurek 
Kim and Jen’s use of fringe was right on trend with a 70’s vibe, and it had gorgeous movement down the runway. The tie-dye made me want to take a beach vacation ASAP.  Everything looked comfortable and stylish, which can definitely be hard to do.  

Idle Child  
The collection was 20’s inspired, and I appreciated that it didn't hit you over the head with a flapper dress.  There was a lot of mixing of sheer and prints, and the iridescent beading was fantastic.  Monsieur Adi mixing in a lot of the Gatsby movie soundtrack definitely amplified my admiration of the collection.  

And the finale dress!

Part II: 
Jenny Carle 
Kozol 
Cliche 
Emily Trevor 
George Moskal 

Jenny Carle

Emily Trevor
The intro video revealed that Emily’s collection was inspired by the outdoors and tennis, two things I don’t super love. The clothes started down the runway and even though I’m definitely not preppy (maybe the 12 years of private school uniforms made me want to rebel?), I was really drawn to them.  Each look was clearly inspired by exactly what she said, but wasn’t over the top.  And the last dress had the crowd gasping and clapping...

And the finale dress...tennis wedding anyone?

George Moskal
George Moskal closed the show for a second season.  The sparkly prints mixed with soft fabrics would make an excellent sophisticated but playful spring wardrobe. 

Envision is always the highlight of my MN fashion season, and the Spring 2015 event brought in lots of new elements. I hope the video introductions continue and would love to see even more ways to shop the runway the night of the event.  

I’m very excited about the talented designers in the Twin Cities and hope that all my Vegas and Chicago friends reading can rest assured that Minnesota has a lot more for me than we all anticipated. 

What I wore:


Dress from Ragstock Duluth, Shuriken ring by Kristin Hassan, vest by Punkktual (bought it at RAW: EXPOSURE and saw it on the runway at Voltage 2013), leopard calf hair wedges by Banana Republic, clutch from Target.

Envision now has it’s own Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/envisionminneapolis.

Save the date for the Fall 2015 show - Sept 25, 2015!

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Twin Cities Fashion Events - Spring 2015

There may no longer be an official Twin Cities Fashion Week, but there is still a lot of talent and energy in the Minneapolis-St. Paul fashion community.  

I’m finally making my move to Minneapolis this weekend and it just so happens that a string of exciting local fashion events kick off right when I get the keys to my new digs. 

 

Thursday, April 23 

House of Gina Marie + Ruby3 Trunk Show 
Sip on champagne and peruse a Kentucky Derby inspired collection featuring hats and fascinators with coordinating Allegra Lockstadt prints by Ruby3 will be available at June Resale, as well as Gina Marie sample sale pieces and limited edition items from the latest collection. 

More information: http://juneresale.com/off-to-the-races-with-anna-lee-joy-teiken 

 

Friday, April 24

Fashion Revolution Day 
This global initiative to bring the issue of supply chain transparency and ethical sourcing to the forefront of the fashion industry really reminded me of why I started this blog in the first place.  Started after the Rana Plaza factory complex collapse in Bangladesh on April 24, 2013, Fashion Revolution Day challenges consumers to think more about how their garments come to be.  This year, they challenge us to ask “Who made my clothes?”.  The free Minneapolis event will be at the Minnesota Textile Center and includes a runway show featuring participants in recycled/repurposed/handmade/thrifted/fair trade/eco/organic/ethically made clothing, pop up shops from local vendors, and screening of Cotton Road - a documentary which follows cotton from farms in South Carolina to factories overseas.

More information on the Minneapolis event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fashion-revolution-day-minneapolis-tickets-16238026374   
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1374869166175900/  
More information on the Fashion Revolution (and to find events in other cities): http://fashionrevolution.org/  

 

Saturday, April 25 

North Loop Spring Crawl

Named one of Thrillist’s “Coolest Neighborhoods in America”, the North Loop/Warehouse District hosts a bi-annual “Crawl” through it’s various boutiques, studios, and businesses.  Collect stamps on a passport that can be obtained at any of the participating retailers for a chance to win a $500 grand prize gift basket while exploring the neighborhood.  Stores such as Roe Wolfe, Martinpatrick3, Statement, and D.Nolo are part of the crawl, all offering their own discounts, specials, and giveaways.  I’m especially excited about this since the North Loop is not only home to awesome boutiques, but also the awesome place I’ll be working.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/462700807229062/

 

Tessa Louise Art Opening
One of my favorite Twin Cities fashion designers, Tessa Druley of Tessa Louise, will be showcasing sketches at Showroom inspired by fashion - her own designs and the ones that excite her.  

More information: http://showroommpls.com/event/art-opening-tessa-druley/ 
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/448273392005489/ 

 

Sunday, April 26 

I AM FABULOUS! 
Presented by Sarah Edwards of I Am Kindness, the Sunday brunch-time event celebrates style at every age at the Varsity Theater.  Food, giveaways, hair and makeup, local pop-up shops, live music, dancing, a photo booth, a fashion show, and a screening of “Advanced Style” are all part of the fun.  
P.S. The event falls on Sarah’s birthday!

More information: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/i-am-fabulous-tickets-16177011878?aff=es2
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/625077800959299 

 

Wednesday, April 29

RAW Artists Minneapolis Presents: EXPOSURE 

EXPOSURE brings art, fashion, music, film, photography, hair & makeup, and performance art together at the Pourhouse.  Designers include Punkktual (who I remember from Voltage 2013), unisex (and totally badass looking) Form over Function, and Duluth-based, steampunk inspired designer Patricia of Chemistry Fashions, working with No One Fashion.  

More information: http://www.rawartists.org/minneapolis/exposure 
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1630443387191228/  

 

Thursday, April 30

Hardt Jewelry Showroom Opening
Drinks, apps, prizes, and new pieces await at the grand opening of Hardt Jewelry’s showroom at the Northwind Lofts.  Even more importantly, a portion of the proceeds of all sales from the night will go to Reclaim - an organization specializing in mental health care for LGBTQ youth.  

More information:http://www.reclaim-lgbtyouth.org/hardt-jewelry-showroom-opening-event/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1378547099141212/ 

 

Saturday, May 2

Envision

The biggest bi-annual fashion event in the Twin Cities returns to Orchestra Hall for Spring 2015. A runway show featuring looks from local boutiques and designers is presented in the dramatic glass atrium.  Part of each ticket sale and all of the proceeds from the silent auction during the event benefit Public Functionary.  Live entertainment by Monsieur Adi and an after party at Coup d’Etat are included with ticket purchase.  Check out my recaps of Fall 2013, Spring 2014, and Fall 2014 and be sure not to miss Spring 2015! 

More information: http://envisionmpls.com/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1570632843176691/ 

 

Sunday, May 3 

RISE: Advocacy Through Design Fashion Show 
University of Minnesota's FAB (Fashion and Business student organization) hosts an annual fashion show/scholarship competition/fundraiser.  Looks from local designers such as Tim+Thom and a student designer scholarship competition will be presented. Additionally, delicious doughnut pop-up by sssdude-nutz bakery will be available at the event.  Proceeds from the event benefit Dress For Success-Twin Cities, the local branch of the global organization that “promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and career development tools to help them thrive in work and life." 

More information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rise-advocacy-through-design-tickets-16372287954  
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1377922449202505/  

 

This list is not comprehensive (so much talent and energy in the MSP area!) and may be updated as I find out more information. 

There are also some events of interest that fall out of this range but are worth mentioning, such as the Eye Candy | A Design Showcase of student-designed garments made of nontraditional material at Weisman Art Museum on April 22, ACG Designs Trunk Show on May 7, Design on a Dime youth fundraiser/fashion show in St. Paul on May 7, Minnesota History Center’s Inspiring Beauty: Fashion Show and Exhibit Preview for the “50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair” exhibit on May 21, and the 2nd Annual Minnesota Fashion Awards/Rumble on the Runway later this summer on August 21.  

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Envision Fall 2014

Envision Fall 2014 was definitely the best I have been to so far and I can’t wait until the spring show on May 2, 2015.  I already have my front row ticket!

Once again held in Orchestra Hall, the highlight event of MSPFW was held on September 12, 2014 and featured 13 designers in two segments.  

Tricia Khutoretsky of Public Functionary hosts Envision.

Tricia Khutoretsky of Public Functionary hosts Envision.

The red carpet backdrop was a luxe looking sign made by Minneapolis based company Woodchuck.  I recognized the name and laser cut wooden products from their pop-up shop during Duluth’s “Pop-Up in Downtown” campaign around the holidays in 2013.  In addition to the backdrop, they provided signage, wooden pocket squares, and funky panels that served as a cool background for the runway.  

Me in front of the Woodchuck backdrop at Envision in Minneapolis September 12, 2014.  Photo by Reinaldo Ramcharit.

Me in front of the Woodchuck backdrop at Envision in Minneapolis September 12, 2014.  Photo by Reinaldo Ramcharit.

The tables hosting silent auction items including photography sessions, 2 Gingers gift sets, and restaurant gift cards were laid out on one side of the room as opposed to spread throughout, to encourage more interaction on the dance floor.  Proceeds from the auction went to Public Functionary. 

Spooky Black and Bobby Raps provided entertainment via DJ sets before the show.  I loved that Spooky was so into what he was playing - you could feel his passion for the music.  The great thing about Envision and a lot of the other Minnesota fashion events I’ve been to is that they not only celebrate local fashion designers, but also local musicians and other artists. 

Allan Kingdom, Spooky Black (who now goes by Corbin), and Bobby Raps.

Allan Kingdom, Spooky Black (who now goes by Corbin), and Bobby Raps.

These boys are part of a band called theStand4rd that I am really impressed with.  Allan Kingdom has collaborated on a song with Kanye West, even showing up in London to perform with him at the Brit Awards.  And, they can throw a hell of a party…friend them on Snapchat and you might find out where to show up.

Artist Jesse Draxler was set up working on some pieces while the music was playing before the runway portions of Envision began.

These items were also available for purchase that night.  

These items were also available for purchase that night.  

Another local talent highlighted at Envision was the production company Kylee and Christian Creative.  They put together short video bios about the designers/boutique owners and the pieces being shown that played before each collection walked the runway.  This reminded me a lot of Vert Couture in Chicago or even Voltage in Minneapolis.  It helped me feel really connected to the show and was a good way to break up the night and keep it from feeling like a rapid-fire runway barrage. 

PART I

Love the fringe and the circle scarf as hood thing happening in this look by Velvet Moon.

Love the fringe and the circle scarf as hood thing happening in this look by Velvet Moon.

“In Minneapolis, there’s an ‘East’ meets ‘West’ vibe” - Kim and Jen of Kjurek.  Love the plaid pants.

“In Minneapolis, there’s an ‘East’ meets ‘West’ vibe” - Kim and Jen of Kjurek.  Love the plaid pants.

The 90s hiphop music playing during Cliche’s segment got the whole room super pumped (I think “best runway music of the night” was uttered).  The cool kicks and metallic everything energized me for sure.

Look from Cliche. 

Look from Cliche. 

Silver and plaid look by Cliche.

Silver and plaid look by Cliche.

I would wear this outfit (well, not with a crop top) to work every day if I could. Camo pants and gold sleeves?! Yes.

I would wear this outfit (well, not with a crop top) to work every day if I could. Camo pants and gold sleeves?! Yes.

Menswear meets womenswear with structured pieces and suspenders at Idle Child, and hot hosiery made a public appearance.  

Really liked this.

Really liked this.

Look by Idle Child.

Look by Idle Child.

I really hope this hosiery in public thing actually becomes more prevalent, but whatever because I do it anyway. 

Part of my look from #blackheartsball 2014. @blackheartsball

A photo posted by Liz M. (@poizenisxkandee) on

There was an intermission with a DJ set by DJ Adora Tokyo and a dance performance.

Intermission at Envision Minneapolis Fall 2014.

Intermission at Envision Minneapolis Fall 2014.

Metallic accents strike again at Ellie Hottinger. 

Metallic accents strike again at Ellie Hottinger. 

Samantha Rei presented a really cohesive collection with an intricate backstory she created.  She described an “undercover lesbian ‘French bicycle fashion’ couple that call each other ‘Fox' and ‘Sparrow’ in the 1940s”.

Tessa Louise has consistently been one of my favorite Twin Cities designers and this remains true. 

@tessalouise_designstudio's collection at @ignitemodels's #envisionmpls Fall 2014.

A video posted by Liz M. (@poizenisxkandee) on

How gorgeous is this dress?!

Lindsey Hopkins presented a really interesting collection, I believe inspired by Hiroshima.

I like the scuba/neoprene material.

I like the scuba/neoprene material.

Look by Lindsey Hopkins.

Look by Lindsey Hopkins.

The print on this was really cool.

The print on this was really cool.

George Moskal loves leather, which I also love, but I think I love purple and zippers more.

George Moskal loves leather, which I also love, but I think I love purple and zippers more.

The finale song was Disclosure + Sam Smith’s “Latch” which I was super into at the time, and closed out the night on a high note.

Envision has always been social media friendly, with encouragement to use the hashtag #EnvisionMPLS, but this season seemed even more so.  Really liked it being so interactive and hearing the story behind the collection before it was presented. 

Tickets are on sale now for the Spring 2015 show that will be held May 2, 2015.  General admission - $30, VIP - $60, VIP Front Row - $75.  Additionally, student discount General Admission tickets are available for $16.


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Twin Cities Fashion Week Fall 2014 Recap

There were so many great events for Twin Cities Fashion Week, I wish I could have attended them all!  It will be so much easier to coordinate when I finally live in Minneapolis.  I enjoyed my time at the events I did attend and can’t wait til next season! 

Fashionopolis 

Hosted by MSP Magazine at Aria, Fashionopolis showcased items inspired by their September Style issue, all available at Twin Cities retailers.  The show was separated into themed segments and presented in one of the more elaborate runways I’ve seen.  

Fashionopolis at Aria. 

Fashionopolis at Aria. 

Section 1 - Overexposed featured a lot of sequins,  Section 2 - After Sunset featured a lot of leather, Section 3 - Winter Carnival showed a lot of bright outerwear, Section 4 - Dreamsicle showed how to wear pastel colors even in crisp fall and winter weather.  

Platform model at Fashionopolis.

In the lobby, there were live models showcasing pieces from Scheherazade, Stephanie’s, House of 365, and more.  The space was interesting, with whimsical sayings on the walls and cool chandeliers.  Aria is also very conveniently located near the office, so I was able to rush back right after the show (and Glam Doll Donuts) to finish up a project.  

Envision 

Fall 2014 was the best production of Envision I have attended so far.  Loved the signage from Minneapolis based Woodchuck, who I recognized from their storefront in Duluth during the holiday pop-ups.  

Tricia Khutoretsky of Public Functionary hosts Envision.

The video introductions before each collection really helped focus on each designer or retailer, rather than the night being two segments of a smattering of shows.  The live entertainment by DJ Adora Tokyo and breakdancers made intermission more than just grabbing another drink. 

My favorite piece from the night was definitely this dress by Tessa Louise:

Finale dress by Tessa Louise.

Finale dress by Tessa Louise.

Full review of Envision Fall 2014 to come! 

North Loop Fall Crawl 

The North Loop of Minneapolis is not only home to the office I’ll be working out of (and the brewery/restaurant below it), but also a lot of independent retailers.  The North Loop Fall Crawl consisted of 11 featured retailers and a passport to get stamped at each one.  

As soon as eight different stamps were collected (4 from the central zone and 4 from the more outer zone), the stub could be filled out and entered in a gift card raffle.  

I got every single stamp by the end of the crawl.

Some of the highlights from the North Loop Fall Crawl include:

Roe Wolfe - I had heard a lot about Roe Wolfe via past seasons of Envision, but never had enough time to stop in until now.  A great mix of local and boutique brands.

Lole - Women’s activewear.  They have the running jackets with the thumbholes that I love so much. Some of their items can cross over from activewear to being casual wear.  

Stephen Vincent Design - Absolutely beautiful fine jewelry.  A lot of gorgeous pieces available (including the perfect diamond studs I need to save up for) and custom designs can be created.

martinpatrick3  - This is the place to shop for men.  Lifestyle store from apparel to barware to coffee table books and more.  

MN4MN 

The inaugural season of this event was a great way to see parts of the Metro that aren’t in downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul.  Held at the Shops at West End in St. Louis Park (which I’ve likened to Town Square in Las Vegas), the weekend involved two nights of different fashion shows from local retailers and designers, and a pop-up market including Minnesota based brands and stores.  

Marc, Coco, Betsey, Karl, and Tom - Fashion icon Block Bots by Oh Dier.

Marc, Coco, Betsey, Karl, and Tom - Fashion icon Block Bots by Oh Dier.

The market was really fun.  I loved seeing representatives Duluth Pack, Elixery, Oh Dier, Apricot Lane, and getting to know more about them.  I even stopped by Sanborn Canoe booth where they were showing handcrafted canoe paddles...it made me nostalgic for my Concrete Canoe days in college.  

At the market, I fell in love with jewelry designer Cheryl Shohet. Each of her pieces is unique, with a focus on creating art that you can wear.

Artist and jewelry designer Cheryl Shohet.

One of the more interesting things about MN4MN weekend was how Target showed both nights - the first night showcasing items from it’s house brands (Merona, Mossimo, etc) and the second night, looks from creatives on their design team (Lindsey Hopkins, Marissa Bridges, etc).  Sometimes, I forget that a corporation as big as Target still consists of actual people.  

Full review of MN4MN to come.

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