Posts Tagged ‘Akira’
Where the Wild Things Are
Thursday, January 6th, 2011
There’s a “certain something” about animal prints. They’re sexy, statement-making and maintain their place on today’s fiercest catwalks. Designers like Dolce & Gabbana and Roberto Cavalli, both of whom are notorious for their use of animal-inspired collections, never disappoint when it comes to using these feminine, exotic prints in their collections. Such options include leopard, cheetah, reptile and even birds of paradise–all symbolizing the timelessness fashion can possess. From Grace Kelly to Kate Moss, the animal trend is a favorite of style icons who embrace their wilder side. Despite the pattern, these classic prints add a retro yet playful approach to any outfit.
Leopard and snake prints are fan favorites for their chameleon-like wearability. For those who prefer a pop of color, peacock prints create an energetic, flirty look. Regardless, pair your animal print with a neutral, solid counterpart, or take a walk on the wild side and pair it with a tamed, contrasting print. Additionally, printed accessories are a subtle way to add flare to your outfit while still being refined and chic.
Not only are the animal-inspired fashions endless for Winter 2010 and Spring 2011, they’re so much fun to wear. And isn’t that the ultimate fashion bonus?
Clockwise from left:
1. Runway look from Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring ’11 collection
2. Akira Black Label zebra-print dress ($77; Akira)
3. Zebra tights ($18; Topshop)
4. Patterson J. Kincaid “African Cheetah Salvador” tank dress ($76; Bloomingdales)
5. Foley+Corrina bag is snake-embossed leather bag ($495; SHE Boutique)
6. Chelsea Flower leopard blouse ($190; Tula; 3738 N Southport Avenue)
7. Ash Impuls leopard-print flats ($150; shopbop.com)
By Courtney Cunniff
Images courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana, Akira, Topshop, Bloomingdales, SHE Boutique, Tula and shopbop.com
Tags: Akira, Ash Impulse, Bloomingdales, Chelsea Flower, Chicago Shopping, Dolce & Gabbana, Foley + Corinna, Patterson J. Kincaid, She Boutique, shopbop.com, Topshop, Tula
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Block 37 Runway Show
Monday, November 15th, 2010
With new stores such as Michelle Tan and Akira joining the likes of Zara, Anthropologie and Sephora, State Street’s Block 37 has earned a place as one of Chicago’s major shopping destinations. This Wednesday night from 5:30 to 7:30pm, Austin Scarlett and Santino Rice from “Project Runway” will host a formal runway event that showcases clothing and accessories from retailers in Block 37. This free event, held inside the shopping center, allows you to shop directly from the runway, whether that be for yourself or for those on your holiday gift list. Get an up-close view as seasonal looks make their rounds down the catwalk, and even enter to win a $1,000 shopping spree. Not a bad way to spend a Wednesday evening…
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of Block 37
Tags: Akira, Anthropologie, Block 37, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Shows, Chicago Shopping, Michelle Tan, Sephora, Zara
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Fashion in the Windy City
Friday, September 24th, 2010
EVENTS
Indie Designer Market at Plumber’s Hall (1340 W Washington Street)
This will be the last of the Indie Designer Market in 2010. Stop by from 10am to 5pm on Friday or 10am to 4pm on Saturday. There will be plenty of vendors to shop from – a perfect place to get your holiday shopping done.
Macy’s Fashion Director Event (Woodfield Mall Macy’s – Schaumburg)
Take Macy’s Fashion Challenge on Saturday beginning at 2pm and win a $100 Macy’s Gift Card. Season 2 Project Runway finalist Nick Verreos will emcee the event. Contestants will be paired with models and directed to create a complete outfit.
Garden of Eden Fashion Show at Galleria Marchetti (825 W Erie Street)
On Sunday, Folklorique, Akira’s 7th Annual Garden of Eden Fashion Show will kickoff at 5pm. Pre-show entertainment will be provided by the Chicago Cultural Alliance along with performances curated by Aloft Chicago. Tickets are on sale now.
SALES
Objets D’Envy Flash Sale at www.objetsdenvy.com
The first ever Objets D’Envy FLASH Sale will be on Friday and Saturday. For two days, the Rock Candy Bracelet will be specially priced for only $100, a savings of $80. Supplies are limited to start shopping now!
Image courtesy of Galleria Marchetti
Tags: Akira, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Shopping, Garden of Eden Fashion Show, Indie Designer Market, Macy's Fashion Director Event, Objets D'Envy
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Lolla Style #1: Music Inspiration
Tuesday, July 20th, 2010
There’s no better place than Chicago during the first weekend in August. Since I missed Coachella earlier this summer, I’ll definitely be at Lollapalooza—blanket and camera in tow. The three-day festival melds my passions for music and style, and because one often inspires the other, my Lolla looks nod to the musicians I can’t wait to see. While I want my get-ups to seem effortlessly superb, there’s still a decent amount of planning to stylishly battle the heat and humidity.
FRIDAY
Shown above
Though I’m not a die-hard fan of her music, I do admire Gaga’s humor and artistry. The lady sure knows how to fly her freak flag, so I’ll honor her opening day performance with skin-tight Lycra and quirky pieces.
1. Quontom cutout dress ($90; Topshop). Edgy cut outs are cool and hot.
2. Dolce Vita “Indy” shoes ($36; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). While sky-high heels are more Gaga’s style, they just aren’t practical for Lolla.
3. “Chain Mail Perfection” body jewelry ($300; Litter San Francisco). Fashion-forward enough to make Gaga herself jealous, this embellishment is bound to be a conversation piece.
4. Paloma vintage sunglasses ($173; Akira; 1849 W North Avenue). An interesting, modern approach that rivals Gaga’s standout eyewear collection.
SATURDAY
I’ll revisit my youth Saturday night. Memories of pre-mainstream Green Day and Social Distortion have inspired me to rock elements of punk and alternative from the early 90’s. Who knew I’d regret dumping my old Doc Martens?
1. Urban renewal cutoff shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters). Denim shorts are a festival must-have—hands down.
2. Vintage Doc Martens ($128; Free People). Comfortable boots to trek Grant Park.
3. Plaid “Dakota Gilet” ($68; AllSaints). The cut-off sleeves are edgy and airy.
4. “Yes please” cutoff tank ($64; The Trend Boutique). Nothing says “punk” like pairing stripes with plaid.
5. “Diego” bucket bag ($825; Alexander Wang). This gorgeous cross-body bag keeps hands free and luggage minimal.
6. Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses ($170; Sunglass Hut). You can’t go wrong with this classic.
7. Low Luv knuckle ring ($80; Saks Fifth Avenue). Positively badass.
SUNDAY
If I survive this music marathon, the carefree, barefoot hippie within will shine through on Sunday. What better way to come off an intense weekend than to lounge in the grass swaying to tunes? Wolfmother (hauntingly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin) evokes a laid-back vibe that carries me back in time when peace, love and music ruled the earth.
1. Shady Brady hat ($70; Alcala’s; 1733 W Chicago Avenue). Be weary of UV rays by shading your face from the summer sun.
2. Nightcap Clothing “Penelope” dress ($275; Shopbop). Beat the heat with an airy white dress.
3. Vintage bottle necklace ($578; Free People). A perfect addition to the part boho, part rock ensemble.
4. Zara Terez holster bag ($125; p.45; 1643 N Damen Avenue). The most practical festival bag yet; it’s just big enough for all your necessities.
5. Hudson buckle boot ($345; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue). Add a masculine touch to an otherwise feminine outfit.
Images courtesy of Topshop, Lori’s Shoes, Litter San Francisco, Akira, Urban Outfitters, Free People, AllSaints, The Trend Boutique, Alexander Wang, Sunglasses Hut, Saks Fifth Avenue, Alcala’s, shopbop.com, P.45, and Niche
Tags: Akira, Alcala's, Alexander Wang, AllSaints, Chicago Festival Style, Chicago Shopping, Doc Martens, Dolce Vita, Free People, Litter San Francisco, Lollapalooza Style, Lori's Shoes, Low Luv, Niche, Nightcap Clothing, P.45, Paloma, Quontom, Ray Ban, Saks Fifth Avenue, Shady Brady, shopbop.com, Street Style, Sunglasses Hut, The Trend Boutique, Topshop, Urban Outfitters, Zara Terez
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The 4th of July Weekend Sales
Thursday, July 1st, 2010
Vintage Heaven Big Sale at Heaven Gallery (1550 N Milwaukee Avenue)
On Saturday from 12-6pm, shop a vast selection of vintage clothing and accessories from Joules Jewels Vintage, Max & Chloe Vintage, and other local dealers at Vintage Heaven.
Akira Independence Day Sale
Akira is offering 25% off for their Independence Day Sale. Enter coupon code: INDEPENDENCE to receive 25% off your purchase.
Eclectica Boutique Sale (1006 W Armitage Avenue)
Eclectica Boutique is having a sale through Tuesday that’ll save you 20% on clothing, jewelry, handbags and accessories, as well as new arrivals, custom orders and sale merchandise.
Neiman Marcus Last Call Fourth of July Storewide Sale
Through Tuesday, save 30% off your entire purchase of designer duds at Neiman Marcus.
More upcoming events and sales
Image courtesy of Akira
Tags: Akira, Eclectica Boutique, Heaven Gallery, Joules Jewels Vintage, Max & Chloe Vintage, Neiman Marcus, Vintage Heaven
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Memorial Day Fashion Celebration
Friday, May 28th, 2010
EVENTS
BADC Fashion Statement Soiree at Bon V (1100 W Randolph Street)
Beginning at 9pm tonight (Friday), Borrow a Dress Couture holds it’s first annual Fashion Statement Soiree. The complimentary cocktail hour is followed by a 10pm fashion show.
Indie Designer Market at Plumber’s Hall (1350 W Randolph Street)
The Indie Designer Market returns on Saturday (10am-5pm) and Sunday (10am-4pm). This event will present an exclusive exhibition featuring some of the most original and provocative talent in Chicago.
SALES
Celebrate the Release of SATC2 at Gavin Boutique (1939 Central Street – Evanston)
Through Friday, shoppers are invited to don their stilettos and swing by Gavin to kick off the theatrical release of the hottest movie this summer, Sex and the City 2. One lucky shopper will be treated to the ultimate fan goodie bag.
Cynthia Rowley Sale at Cynthia Rowley Boutiques (810 W Armitage Avenue; 1653 N Damen Avenue)
Kick off your summer in style with the Cynthia Rowley Memorial Day Weekend Sale. Customers can enjoy up to 70% off select merchandise.
Bonanza Vintage Sale & General Store at Berlin Nightclub (954 W Belmont Avenue)
On Saturday and Sunday from 1-7pm, Shaina Rose & Action Jackson, in partnership with Berlin Nightclub, host the Bonanza Vintage Sale & General Store. The event will have live music, cocktails and and discounted clothing.
Sex and the City Celebration at Le Dress (1741 W Division Street)
On Saturday, Le Dress holds a special sale in celebration of SATC2. Purchase any dress, and get half off any accessory. Offer is good on one item only (not applicable to sale items).
Memorial Day Sale at Isabella Fine Lingerie (840 W Armitage Avenue)
Now through Sunday, take 20% off everything in the store. The discount is valid in-store or online (use code: SUMMER).
Fabulous 15 Memorial Day Sale at Akira (multiple Chicago locations)
Now through Monday, enjoy 15% off at Akira in honor of Memorial Day. Sale applies to Akira Red Label items.
Tags: Akira, BADC, Bon V, Bonanza Vintage Sale & General Store, Borrow a Dress Couture, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Sales, Cynthia Rowley, GAVIN, Indie Designer Market, Isabella Fine Lingerie, Le Dress, SATC2, Sex and the City 2
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Fashion Events This Weekend: Trunk Shows Galore
Friday, April 23rd, 2010
FASHION EVENTS
Tania Spinelli Trunk Show and Personal Appearance at Sarca (710 N Wabash Street)
Meet iconic shoe designer Tania Spinelli at Sarca on Saturday (10am to 6pm) or Sunday (12 to 5pm). Preview the Fall 2010 Collection while enjoying a complimentary fit consultation. Space is limited, so RSVP to rsvp@shopsarca.com.
Nine West Fashion Presentation at Nordstrom (55 E Grand Avenue, at Michigan Avenue)
On Friday from 12 to 2pm, Nine West Creative Director Fred Allard and Gossip Girl Stylist Eric Daman will co-host a fashion presentation highlighting the Nine West products exclusive to Nordstrom. The fashion presentation will focus on trends, the diversity of the products, and transitioning the designs from day to night. Both Fred and Eric will participate in a Q&A with the customers.
Zac Posen for Target
This Sunday, the highly anticipated Zac Posen for Target collection hits stores. The wait is finally over!
Veruca Salt Cocktail Party (520 N Kingsbury Avenue)
Starting this Friday from 5 to 7pm, Veruca Salt in River North will host a cocktail party every Friday night this spring and summer. Drinks and snacks will be provided, along with 15% off any regularly priced merchandise.
“Dangerous Curves Ahead” Charity Fashion Show at Zhou B. Art Center (1029 W 35th Street)
On Saturday, join Project Runway’s Ra’Mon Lawrence and other Chicago designers at this charity fashion show. Walk the purple carpet and shop more than 25 vendors. Tickets are still available for purchase.
Jodi Arnold Sample Sale Hosted by Beta Boutique (1725 N Damen Avenue)
On Saturday (10am to 6pm) and Sunday (12 to 5pm), the Jodi Arnold Spring 2010 Sample Sale, hosted by Beta Boutique, will offer more than 700 pieces for up to 80% off. Receive a $50 gift certificate with every purchase while supplies last.
Spring Fever Trunk Show at Michelle Tan (1872 N Damen Avenue)
On Saturday from 11am to 6pm, Michelle Tan hosts a Spring Fever Trunk Show, which will feature jewelry from Treasure Gypsy and fugudesigns. Complimentary wine will be provided.
MMX: The Common Era (659 W Diversey Avenue)
On Sunday beginning at 6:30pm, beam into the future as Akira, Steve Madden & Belvedere Vodka presents the most enterprising and anticipated fashion presentation of the year. Admission is free, but space is limited. RSVP to events@shopakira.com or call 312.324.0348.
Sway Jewelry Trunk Show at Krista K (3458 N Southport Avenue)
View the entire Sway Collection on Friday (10am to 7pm) or Saturday (10am to 6pm). Meet designer Vicki Stauber, and enjoy 20% off the purchase of any two or more pieces.
Image courtesy of Tania Spinelli
Tags: Akira, Beta Boutique, Chicago Events, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Shopping, Dangerous Curves Ahead, fugudesigns, Jodi Arnold, Krista K, Michelle Tan, Nine West, Nordstrom, Sarca, Sway Jewelry, Tania Spinelli, Treasure Gypsy, Veruca Salt, Zac Posen for Target
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The Tee: Anything but Basic
Tuesday, April 13th, 2010
When I went rummaging through my closet for a trusty t-shirt to welcome the warm weather, I realized my tee collection could use a serious upgrade. Many of my once highly favored shirts are now faded, ill-fitting and not on par with the season’s tee trends. Naturally, I went looking for some new ones to replace the old!
As an essential part of a spring and summer wardrobe, t-shirts have the uncanny ability to be dressed up or down, all while keeping you nice and cool (literally and figuratively!). This season, the tee selection includes graphic, patterned, cropped, oversized, embellished and classic styles to suit your mood and diverse tee needs. With this kind of variety, the tee is now anything but basic. The styles are vast, the outfits infinite, so experiment freely this casualwear! Try a cropped tee with a pair of jersey harem pants. Or a neon-hued, oversized tee with a pair of leggings and snakeskin ballet flats. A graphic t-shirt will create an interest-adding contrast when worn with a cotton blazer, wide-leg linen pants, and a cork wedge. Check out these other styles to update your tee collection this season.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Two-sided gray jersey tee ($25; Akira)
2. Stella McCartney oversized tee with stripes and hibiscus print ($421; farfetch.com)
3. Graham & Spencer pink and gray contrast tee ($152; Neiman Marcus)
4. Striped cropped tee ($35; Sofia Vintage)
5. Whistles Eiffel Tower t-shirt ($76; ASOS)
6. Tribal v-neck tee ($24; Urban Outfitters)
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of Akira, farfetch.com, Neiman Marcus, Sofia Vintage, ASOS, and Urban Outfitters
Tags: Akira, ASOS, farfetch.com, Graham & Spencer, Neiman Marcus, Sofia Vintage, Stella McCartney, Urban Outfitters, Whistles
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CFF’s 3rd Annual Scholarship Benefit
Tuesday, March 9th, 2010
As Chicago’s fashion community grows, it’s critical that we support and cultivate the young talent in our city. This is a mutually beneficial pursuit, as it recognizes the designers’ work and promotes our budding fashion industry as a market in which they can lend their sartorial vision. The Chicago Fashion Foundation (CFF) has made this their mission, and on Thursday night, the non-profit held its 3rd Annual Scholarship Benefit to honor local fashion students.
Held in the Narcissus Room in the Macy’s on State Street, the event attracted quite the crowd of industry insiders and admirers, who were treated to an open bar, silent auction and runway competition. With a fresh cocktail in hand and bids on the line for designer jeans, yoga packages, and more, guests took their seats and watched as the nine finalists–chosen from 30 design entries–presented their skill and creativity. The challenge: design an ensemble inspired by one of Chicago’s 28 sister cities around the world.
Eunyoung Joo’s winning look (left) and Michael Schellenbach’s third place look (right). Above: Randy Rusnadi’s second place look
As the models strolled down the u-shaped catwalk, each designer’s skill was obvious. Though the looks weren’t all particularly wearable, the abroad influence was there, captured in a unique and interesting way. The creations made for a tough call among the judges, who included Chicago magazine’s fashion director, Stacey Jones; “Project Runway’s” Steven Rosengard; Akira owner Erikka Wang; ZZAZZ Enterprises, Inc.’s Producer/Director, Tracey Tarantino; and Macy’s North and Northwest Director of Media Relations, Andrea Schwartz.
Unfortunately, only three designers could take home one of the three scholarships: $5,000, $1,000 and $500. Eunyoung Joo (International Academy of Design and Technology) won the competition for her Moscow-inspired dress with a fur collar and bishop sleeves. Randy Rusnadi’s (Harper College) Athens-inspired navy military jacket, gold silk top, and navy silk skirt took second, while Michael Schellenbach (Illinois Institute of Art) brought home the $500 scholarship for his red menswear jumpsuit with fur trim and Chrysler emblem belt, also inspired by Moscow.
One of our favorite looks: Anna Gaukel’s Paris-influenced design
Overall, the event was a success, bringing in about $5,500. Those funds will go back to the Chicago fashion industry through CFF’s many runway shows, scholarships and networking events that have generously supported the community for years. We look forward to seeing what next year’s finalist bring to CFF’s runway, and we can’t wait to see what this year’s finalists do in the future.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of the Chicago Fashion Foundation
Tags: Akira, Anna Gaukel, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Chicago magazine, Columbia College, Erikka Wang, Eunyoung Joo, Harper College, Illinois Institute of Art, International Academy of Design and Technology, Michael Schellenbach, Project Runway, Randy Rusnadi, Stacey Jones, Steven Rosengard
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Chicago Fashion Events and Sales
Friday, February 12th, 2010
EVENTS
“Bad Romance” Pre-Valentine’s Day Fashion Show (839 W Fulton Market)
On Friday at 10pm at Lumen, partygoers are invited to indulge in a pre-Valentine’s Day fashion show inspired by the many looks of Lady Gaga. Styling provided by Rosina-Mae; hair and makeup provided by Glam Live.
K~Fleye Spring Trunk Show at Macy’s on State Street (111 N State Street)
On Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm, Macy’s continues to support Chicago designers as it hosts K~Fleye’s Spring Trunk Show.
RE.STOCK Pop-Up Shop (1022 W Armitage Avenue)
RE.STOCK is Chicago’s only traveling designer pop-up boutique and prices are up to 80% off retail. It’s open Friday thru Sunday (12pm to 6pm).
SALES
J’adore le Dress Valentine’s Day Sale (1741 W Division Street)
Between February 12th thru 13th, le Dress is hosting its second annual Pick a Chocolate Heart Sale that includes savings of 10%, 20% or 30% OFF of any one item in the store This includes sale items.
K.Amato Valentine’s Day Sale (k-amato.com)
Thru February 16th, use code Valentine30 online and get 30% off your purchase.
AKIRA Valentine’s Day Sale (akirachicago.com)
Thru February 14th, take 15% off any purchase by using code LOVE15. Also, get free standard shipping on orders over $150. Not valid for sales items.
The 900 Shops: Tax-Free Weekend (900 N Michigan Avenue)
Between February 13th and 15th, shop tax-free at participating retailers at The 900 Shops. Retailers include MaxMara, Michael Kors, Club Monaco, Adidas, & many more. Print out your Tax-Free Access Pass and a list of all retailers HERE.
La Perla Valentine’s Day Sale (535 N Michigan Avenue)
Thru Valentine’s Day, take 20% off your La Perla order and enjoy complimentary shipping. Use code VDAY20.
Grasshopper 510 Jewelry Sale (1944 N Damen Avenue)
Thru February 14th, get 15% off all jewelry, including earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets, at the eco-friendly boutique Grasshopper 510.
Image courtesy of le Dress
Tags: 900 Shops, Adidas, Akira, Bad Romance, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Club Monaco, Grasshopper 510, K-Fleye, K.Amato, La Perla, Lady Gaga, Le Dress, Lumen, Macy's, MaxMara, Michael Kors, RE.STOCK, Rosina-Mae, Valentine's Day
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