Posts Tagged ‘Chicago Fashion Incubator’
In a Whole New Class
Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011
The Chicago Fashion Incubator’s pop-up shop in The 900 Shops
Each year, the Chicago Fashion Incubator (CFI) welcomes six emerging fashion designers who are lucky enough to reap its benefits. The fourth class of this “Designers in Residence” program was officially announced, and they will all get expert, hands-on training for all that encompasses a successful career in fashion. This includes production space in Macy’s on State Street and rack space in CFI’s pop-up shop in The 900 Shops, which opens this month.
Taking the place of last year’s chosen few, including Christina Fan, Miriam Cecilia Carlson and Stephanie Kuhr–these talented, young designers are:
Concetta Cipriano: Cettina, a collection of ready-to-wear garments embodies the designer’s clientele, a balance of femininity, strength, and beauty, with intricacy, structure, and simplicity.
Shavonne Dorsey: The Shavonne Dorsey Apparel line specializes in fashion and fit for the plus size market featuring simple sheath dresses and powerfully feminine separates.
Eric Kipp: Eric Kipp Custom Clothiers is a custom clothing company that focuses on sharply tailored suits and separates for men that easily transition from office to evening.
Kahindo Mateene: Modahnik is a socially conscious womenswear line of modern and feminine pieces that fuse the designer’s vibrant African heritage with western design sensibilities.
Taneasha Prunty: Gidi is a womenswear line of evening dresses and gowns that exude subtle allure and blend vintage sophistication with modern flair.
Crystal Simms: Crystal B. Designs is an avant garde label that is filled with architectural garments that enhance the features of the female figure.
The new class will be formally announced at LAUNCH/CFI, a reception and fundraiser, on Tuesday, March 15 at 6pm It will be held at the pop-up shop on the 5th floor of The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue), and tickets are $25. Purchase tickets by clicking here.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of CFI
Tags: Cettina, CFI, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Christina Fan, Concetta Cipriano, Crystal B. Designs, Crystal Simms, Eric Kipp Custom Clothiers, Gidi, Kahindo Mateene, Macy's on State Street, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, Shavonne Dorsey Apparel, Stephanie Kuhr, Taneasha Prunty, The 900 Shops
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CFI Presents at Fashion Focus
Sunday, October 24th, 2010
From left: designs by C/FAN, Audey and Miriam Cecilia
Fashion Focus Chicago kicked off Tuesday night in Millennium Park with its first 2010 runway show. The evening belonged to the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s talented resident designers, who, as usual, didn’t disappoint. Before the show, a line of the city’s fashion advocates—stretching to the corner of Randolph and Michigan—waited anxiously to get a look at CFI’s latest creations. Inside we found a tent bursting at the seams with fashion insiders and fashion lovers, all thrilled to be a part of the electric festivities. After taking our seats, the show soon began with a warm welcome from designer and Executive Director of CFI Lara Miller and Andrea Schwartz, the VP of Media Relations from Macy’s, the show’s host. Then, the lights dimmed and DJ Sye provided the energetic musical accompaniment to the designs of 13 residents from this year and previous years.
From left: designs by Kristin Hassan and Evil Kitty
Kristin Hassan was the first to present, once again proving her knack for very feminine womenswear. We saw lots of polka dots and girly accents like lace and tulle on elaborate dresses and gowns. From where we sat, the construction looked fantastic, creating form-fitting and interestingly detailed designs. She topped off each look with accents such as tulle flower brooches and a new pom-pom approach to the giant floral headwear we remember from last year.
Next up were Kate Boggiano’s California girls. Donning oversized sunglasses and a daisy behind one ear, models sported summery separates, dresses and jackets. The silhouettes were simple and often structural, balanced with lavish details like draped and ruffle collars. A colorful palette appeared on solids and a few prints. Overall, it was a collection for a serious woman looking to bring out her sunnier disposition.
We know and love Evil Kitty for her punk-chic aesthetic, and that’s exactly what she showed us. Using soft fabrics with hard details, she created pieces like a flowy, silk tank dress anchored with a studded leather belt. We saw a black lace cocktail dress with royal blue lining and a very chic, Audrey Hepburn-ish pale blue mini dress. Other designs included a hot pink bolero with large spikes protruding from the back.
From left: designs by Anna Hovet and Kate Boggiano
Agga B. is one of our favorite Chicago designers. Her designs are chic, artistic and relevant, making them highly desirable to stylish urban-estas who are no strangers to high fashion. This collection fused the sophisticate and the femme fatale with pieces such as a tulip skirt with a fan of protruding wings around the backside. Agga’s color of choice is black, though hints of pale pink lighted the tone a bit. To cap off the collection, we saw a to-die-for sleeveless fur coat and a magnificent black LBD with gold beaded sleeves and fur trim on the shoulders.
Anna Hovet stuck with the basics for her latest collection. However, she put a casual 80s spin on the designs. Always pretty and girly, we saw a pastel blue skort with an asymmetrical skirt, barely there hemlines and loose-fitting cotton tanks. There were flowy trapeze dresses and a form-fitting black jumper with open slits on the back. Overall, we saw references to decades past that are definitely still au courant.
Woven design elements was the universal theme for Nora del Bursto. Mostly solids, there were a few odd prints thrown in for variety’s sake–many of which didn’t feel particularly reverent to current times. However, we did love the clean lines and attention to detail. A simple white sleeveless cocktail dress stood out with a single geometric, crisscross shoulder. The same was true of a black haulter dress with a crisscross neckline. Another black number had woven detail that ran down the torso, seemingly requiring a surgeon’s steady hand and patience to produce.
From left: designs by Agga B. and Nora del Busto
For a few minutes, Audey took us frolicking through Millennium Park. First, we saw an empire dress with a green floral print and sunshine yellow tulle underlay. Later, the same print appeared on a floor-length maxi that was positively delightful. Her lightheartedness continued onto other tops and dresses that displayed animal and bird prints.
Though we often take notice of C/FAN’s work, she pleasantly surprised us with this particular presentation. She’s known for her luxe basics in solid hues, but she’s obviously expanding beyond that. Pieces we expected were cropped silk tops with plunging necklines and tapered trousers with lovely draping at the hips. The unexpected came from sheer silk dresses—both body con and billowy—displaying a sunset and lone tree print.
Killian Gui made it clear he loves his men’s dress shirts. One after the other, button-ups paraded down the runway, presenting white ones, white ones with black sleeves, plaid ones, two-toned ones and others. So, I’m sad to say, nothing we haven’t seen before…many times. We could see Killian has serious construction talent, but we’d love to see a tad more variety.
From left: designs by Nonnie and Killian Gui
Next was Alidade, who left us with thoughts of summer in Nantucket. From khaki skirts to sky blue shorts to gray cardigans, the designs were simple and preppy. The fit looked fantastic, but we couldn’t help but wish for a little more detail than trim on some sleeves and oversized pockets. There were a few designs that had us craving a little more oomph, but others were right on mark.
From Nantucket prep to 30s pin-up, Dottie’s Delights immediately cranked up the heat. Her vintage-inspired lingerie was both sexy and glamorous, with waist clinchers and garters, thigh-high hose and haulter bras. There was flair that included French lace, velvet and hot pink sequins. These are definitely underthings that are meant to be seen.
From left: designs by Dottie’s Delights and Alidade
After Dottie’s lingerie glued men’s eyes glued to the runway, CFI gave them one final menswear presentation: Nonnie. Appealing to manly men and metros alike, this collection gave us basics and vision that fused the past and present. He nodded to the 50s army cadet with browns and taupes and the latest trends with details like skinny ties. All in all, the dress shirts, button-up vests and slim pants provided something for every urban male.
Last but not least, we saw the ethereal sophistication and glamour of Miriam Cecilia. Soft, flowy garments balanced body con, structural designs, producing dresses, gowns and tops we loved. For embellishment, she added metallic leaves on the bodice, neckline and skirt of multiple frocks, as well as pouf shoulders and ruching on several cocktail dresses and gowns. The detail was impressive and so was her ability to make the ladies swoon.
By Meghan Turner
Photography by Deal Paul
Tags: Agga B., Alidade, Anna Hovet, Audey, C/FAN, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Fashion Shows, Chicago Runway Shows, Dottie's Delights, Evil Kitty, Fashion Focus Chicago, Kate Boggiano, Killian Gui, Kristin Hassan, Macy's, Miriam Cecilia, Nonnie, Nora del Busto
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Fashion Focus Chicago 2010
Friday, October 15th, 2010
Sunday 10/17
Fashioning Desire at City Gallery (Water Tower, 806 N Michigan Avenue)
Now through the end of January 2011, stop by Fashioning Desire: Chicago Fashion Photographers. Chicago’s lively and diverse fashion photography scene will be on display, featuring the work of nine local photographers.
Tuesday 10/19
The Designers of the Chicago Fashion Incubator at Millennium Park (201 E Randolph Street)
Kick off Fashion Focus Chicago 2010 at 7:30pm in Millennium Park. Macy’s hosts the first event of the week: a showcase of 14 CFI designers-in-residence along with a runway show of Spring 2011 collections. Admission is free, but RSVP is required.
Wednesday 10/20
Wave of Fashion Runway Show at Millennium Park (Chase Promenade North – 201 E Randolph Street)
The winner of the third annual Mario, Make Me a Model contest will be revealed beginning at 7:30pm. Each of the five finalists will walk the runway wearing local designs. The winner will be selected and announced by Mario Tricoci himself. Admission is free, but RSVP is required.
Life of Two Fairies Runway Show at The Drake Hotel (Palmer Room – 140 E Walton Place)
Starting at 9pm, Borris Powell will present his Spring 2011 womenswear collection, “Life of Two Fairies.” The collection is inspired by a legend of two fairies falling in love despite coming from different backgrounds. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Thursday 10/21
Dress Code at Millennium Park (Chase Promenade North – 201 E Randolph Street)
Students from some of Chicago’s top design schools will showcase their pieces at Dress Code beginning at 7pm. Top student from Columbia College Chicago, The Illinois Institute of Art, The International Academy of Design & Technology, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago will take part. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Make a Statement: Design for the Cure at River East Arts Gallery (435 E Illinois Street)
Beginning at 6:30pm, this high-energy fashion show and cocktail party will feature designs from some of the city’s best designers. This event is the AIDS Foundation of Chicago Junior Board of Director’s signature event aimed to raise awareness amongst Chicagoans. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Accessory Style Lounge at the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago (Lounge Bar – 230 N Michigan Avenue)
From 3 to 6pm, Studio-808 presents the first ever Accessory Style Lounge. This event will showcase Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 accessory lines from a select list of emerging Chicago brands. Admission is free, but RSVP is required.
Chicago Fabric and Trim Show at the Merchandise Mart (350 N Orleans Street)
From 9am to 5pm, the Chicago Fabric and Trime Show is back for two days only. Up to 500 buyers from across the country will be in attendance along with over 100 national fabric and trim resources. Admission is free but RSVP required.
Friday 10/22
The Art of Fashion 2010 at Millennium Park (Chase Promenade North – 201 E Randolph Street)
Join StyleChicago.com at 7:30pm for the finale of Fashion Focus 2010: The Art of Fashion 2010 Runway Show. The event will feature Spring 2011 collection from many of Chicago’s best designers such as Elda de la Rosa, Lara Miller, Lauren Lein, Borris Powell, Paul Sisti, and much more. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Fashion Relief Fashion Show at Creative Lounge (1564 N Damen Avenue – 3rd Floor)
The not-for-profit, Fashion Relief Fashion Show and silent auction gives exposure to new talent and donates all proceeds to the Gulf Relief Foundation. Door open at 7pm, and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Chicago Fabric and Trim Show at the Merchandise Mart (350 N Orleans Street)
From 9am to 4pm, the Chicago Fabric and Trim Show is back for two days only. Up to 500 buyers from across the country will be in attendance along with over 100 national fabric and trim resources. Admission is free but RSVP required.
Saturday 10/23
FashionChicago 2010 at Millennium Park (Chase Promenade North – 201 E Randolph Street)
From 10am to 6pm, join StyleChicago.com at FashionChicago 2010, an exclusive designer shopping event. The fashion event at Chase Promenade North will be transformed into a one-of-a-kind designer shopping event featuring more than 30 of the best designers. Admission is free but RSVP is required.
Fall Fashion and Jewelry Explosion at Plumber’s Hall (1340 W Washington Street)
The popular Modern Vintage shopping event is back for the fall from 10am to 5pm. Find the very best clothing, handbags, accessories, and more. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Elise Bergman Trunk Show at Roslyn Boutique (2035 N Damen Avenue)
Chicago designer Elise Bergman will have a trunk show from 11am to 7pm at Rosyln Boutique. Enjoy live music while shopping, refreshments, and exclusive discounts on custom order from the Fall and Holiday 2010 Collection.
Irregular, a Fashion Homage by Renovar at Heaven Gallery (1550 N Milwaukee Aveue)
From 8pm to 10pm, Alma Wieser, creator of Renovar, will pay homage to the great Japanese designers of the late 20th century at Heaven Gallery. The fashion show will highlight the revolutionary works from the late 60s to the present.
Sunday 10/24
Vert Couture: Sexy and Sustainable at Mercedes Benz of Chicago (1520 W North Avenue)
Join Conscious Living TV, LEED-certified Mercedes Benz of Chicago, and Chicago Gateway Green at 4:30pm for the 2nd Annual Vert Couture Eco-Fashion Show. The event will showcase the Spring and Summer 2011 lines of some of the biggest and best eco-designers in Chicago such as Modahnik, 71 Jules, Bryant McLemore Smith, Manny B Jewelry, Fanta Celah, Mohop Shoes, Kailia Footwear, and more. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Fall Fashion and Jewelry Explosion at Plumber’s Hall (1340 W Washington Street)
The popular Modern Vintage shopping event is back for the fall from 10am to 3pm. Find the very best clothing, handbags, accessories, and more. Tickets are still available so purchase yours now.
Image courtesy of Billy Rood Photography
Tags: Accessory Style Lounge, Chicago Fabric and Trim Show, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Shopping, Dress Code, Elise Bergman, Fall Fashion and Jewelry Explosion, Fashion Focus Chicago 2010, Fashion Relief Fashion Show, FashionChicago 2010, Fashioning Desire: Chicago Fashion Photography, Irregular Fashion Homage, Life of Two Fairies Runway Show, Make a Statement: Design for the Cure, Modern Vintage, Roslyn Boutique, The Art of Fashion 2010, Vert Couture, Vert Couture Eco-Fashion Show, Wave of Fashion Runway Show
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Lolla Style #2: Stand-out Style
Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Oh Lolla, how I love you so. For three blissful days, I get to jam out with my favorite bands alongside other sweaty concert-goers. We party through rain or shine against Chicago’s gleaming skyline, yet the weekend isn’t all glow sticks and draft beers. With last year’s temperatures topping 90 degrees and a city-wide influx of urban hipsters, we prepare ourselves to battle the summer heat and crowds vying for the fashion spotlight. Think boho chic meets urban cool to guide this weekend’s wardrobe selections. I know such fashion pressure can be a bit looming, but never fear. My below day-by-day guide to Lolla style can help equip you for what’s always a weekend to remember.
FRIDAY
Shown above
Friday music picks: Strokes, Chromeo and Hot Chip.
Fashion picks: Channeling my inner flower child by rocking a boho maxi with some awesomely retro accessories.
1. What Goes Around Comes Around “Paloma” maxi dress ($278; ASOS). A maxi reminiscent of decades past.
2. House of Harlow “Carnelian” dome ring in Tiger’s Eye ($70; singer22.com). A festival-worthy bauble.
3. Tom Ford “Nicole” sunglasses ($390; Barneys). Rose tinted shades with a retro-glam feel.
4. Jeffrey Campbell “Snick” wedges in olive ($138; Lori’s Shoes). A clog meets a wedge for a modern interpretation of this throwback trend.
SATURDAY
Saturday music picks: Phoenix, Cut Copy, Empire of the Sun.
Fashion picks: Mixing girlie and grunge with the perfect denim cutoffs, wrap strap booties and a ruffled floral tank.
1. Jeffrey Campbell wrap strap booties ($230; shopbop.com). Rugged boots to protect your feet while treking from stage to stage.
2. Blank Denim patchwork cutoff shorts ($79; Saks Fifth Avenue). Bleached and ripped, just how jean shorts were meant to be.
3. Madewell floral tiered tank ($88; shopbop.com). A flirty, sheer tank to stay cool.
4. Rebecca Minkoff boyfriend crossbody bag ($295; Intermix). A rocker-chic messenger makes it easier to get through the crowds.
SUNDAY
Sunday music picks: Yeasayer, Arcade Fire, Temper Trap.
Fashion picks: Ending the weekend on a high note by standing out in a neon tribal romper.
1. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent cami romper ($275; revolveclothing.com). A lightweight silk romper with a festive print.
2. Ray-Ban wayfarer ($145; Ray-Ban). Classic shades with an edgy vibe.
3. Dolce Vita sandal ($78; Urban Outfitters). Metal accents with a twist – literally.
4. Alexander Wang “Brenda Camera Bag” ($425; Saks Fifth Avenue). A bag to fit only your most precious essentials.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, Intermix, ASOS, singer22.com, Barneys, Lori’s Shoes, revolveclothing.com, Ray-Ban and Urban Outfitters
Tags: Accessories, Alexander Wang, ASOS, Barneys, Blank Denim, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Shopping, Chicago Style, Dolce Vita, House of Harlow, Intermix, Jeffrey Campbell, Lori's Shoes, Madewell, Ray Ban, Rebecca Minkoff, revolveclothing.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, shopbop.com, Singer22.com, Tom Ford, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, Urban Outfitters, What Goes Around Comes Around
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Fashion Advisory Council Head Resigns
Wednesday, May 26th, 2010
Gen Art Fresh Faces runway show during Fashion Focus Chicago 2009, an initative led by Melissa Gamble
Chicago Fashion Week can’t catch a break. Gen Art’s recent closure meant the end of the not-to-be-missed Fresh Faces runway show, and now Melissa Gamble, the head of Mayor Richard M. Daley’s Fashion Advisory Council, has resigned. Maybe better known as Chicago’s “fashion czar,” she has been with the organization since its inception in 2006 and has spearheaded the Chicago Fashion Incubator and the city’s fashion week, Fashion Focus Chicago. According to Crain’s Chicago Business, the organization will continue despite this upset. The Chicago Office of Tourism, the leading entity behind the FAC, released the following statement about Melissa’s departure and new role as a fashion business professor at Columbia College Chicago:
“Melissa Gamble has had an impressive impact on Chicago’s fashion industry and will be a great asset to Columbia College. Her five years of devotion to increasing the visibility and resources for local fashion talent has been instrumental in Mayor Richard M. Daley’s mission to elevate and educate emerging designers and independent retailers in Chicago. We’ve learned a lot over the past five years and we are currently looking at the next steps to address the growth of the fashion industry.”
The uncertainty of Melissa’s absence isn’t particularly good news for the Chicago fashion industry, but we hope the organization finds a new head who will command this post with fervor, innovation, and the utmost of dedication. We need someone who will lead our fair city’s industry in creative, dynamic ways that demonstrate our already proven fashion potential. Maybe a new face will give our fashion industry a fresh face.
By Meghan Turner
Photography by Billy Rood Photography
Tags: CFI, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Fashion News, Chicago Fashion Week, Chicago Office of Tourism, Chicago Runway Shows, Crain's Chicago Business, Fashion Advisory Council, Fashion Focus Chicago, Gen Art, Gen Art Fresh Faces, Mayor Richard M. Daley’s Fashion Advisory Council, Melissa Gamble
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Zamrie Showroom Opens
Monday, April 19th, 2010
Pieces from Zamrie’s Spring 2010 collection
Looking to add some local threads to your spring wardrobe? Last week, Chicago label Zamrie opened its first showroom, where clients can get personal consults as they shop the latest collections. Featuring designs by Ashley Zygmunt, a recent graduate of the Chicago Fashion Incubator, the Lincoln Park space (1213 W Diversey) will serve as both a client showroom (in the front) and studio (in the back). Currently available for purchase is Ashley’s Spring 2010 collection, a line of feminine, soft-hued tops, dresses and jackets with a clear focus on tailoring and detail.
To check out Ashley’s designs first-hand and visit the Zamrie showroom, simply make an appointment by contacting info@zamrie.com. In addition to the showroom, you can find Zamrie clothing at Anana’s East (109 N Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park) and Gray (821 Chestnut Court, Winnetka). For more information about the Spring and Fall 2010 collections, upcoming events, and general information about the Zamrie brand, visit zamrie.com.
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of Zamrie
Tags: Anana’s East, Ashley Zygmunt, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Gray Boutique
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Chicago Fashion Entertainment This Weekend
Friday, April 9th, 2010
A glimpse at Winter Kate’s spring/summer ’10 collection
312 Fashion Runway Series at Loft on Lake (1366 W Lake Street)
On Friday beginning at 7pm, the Lara Miller Collection will be the first independent designer show of the 312 Fashion Runway Series. On Saturday, Horacio Nieto presents his Fall/Winter 2010 womenswear and Arlo menswear collections to close out the 312 Fashion Runway Series. Tickets are still available, so get yours now!
Yana Collection Trunk Show at The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue)
On Friday from 12-6pm, CFI alum Yana German launches and displays her Fall 2010 collection.
Allison Schiller Trunk Show at Krista K Boutique (3458 N Southport Avenue)
On Friday from 10am-7pm and Saturday from 10am-6pm, shop the entire collection and meet local designer Allison Schiller. Enjoy 20% off any two or more Allison Schiller jewelry pieces.
Nicole Richie Personal Appearance at Nordstrom (55 E Grand Avenue)
On Saturday from 1-3pm, meet Nicole Richie as she presents the her just-launched collection, Winter Kate. Bohemian chic at its best.
Evil Kitty Trunk Show at The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue)
On Saturday from 11am-4pm, Evil Kitty hosts their Spring 2010 Collection. Enjoy complimentary sips and nibbles and a mini makeover by Sugar and Spice. RSVP to lidia@evilkitty.net.
2010 Creative Chicago Expo at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E Washington Street)
All day Saturday, artists in all disciplines, including fashion, are invited to an annual gathering of resources, services & expertise specifically for people in the arts. Discover more than 120 vendors and services, 25 workshops and discussions.
Spring Blossoms at Alice Berry Studio (1820 W Cortland Street)
On Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm, some of your favorite Chicago designers will display their spring collections and have a sample sale.
Images courtesy of Winter Kate
Tags: 2010 Creative Chicago Expo, 312 Fashion Runway Series, Alice Berry Studio, Allison Schiller, CFI, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago Designer, Chicago Events, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Shopping, Evil Kitty, Horacio Nieto, Lara Miller, Michigan Avenue, Michigan Avenue Shopping, Nicole Richie, Nicole Richie Winter Kate, The 900 Shops, Winter Kate, Yana Collection, Yana German
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Local Exposure: The Chicago Fashion Incubator Pop-up Shop
Monday, March 22nd, 2010
This weekend officially kicked off the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s (CFI) highly anticipated pop-up shop in The 900 Shops on Michigan Avenue. Located on the fifth floor of this designer label paradise, a dedicated retail spot houses a breadth of wares by local fashion designers, whose work will occupy the space until April 18. These designers have all benefited from the CFI fashion education program that provides him or her with the resources, including workspace, curriculum and mentoring, to launch a career in fashion. Each year, the institution selects a new class of six designers and sends its graduates into the fashion world to build their labels.
A selection of designs by the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s 2010 class. Top image: Jonnie Retelle, Leah Fagan, Stephanie Kuhr, Lara Miller (Executive Director of CFI), Donaldo Smith, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, and Christina Fan (images by Billy Rood)
This pop-up brings together the class of 2010 and the alumni to celebrate their success and their futures. And celebrate we did at the Launch event last Tuesday night. To preview the new class’ latest collections in a fashion presentation and to get first dibs on Spring ’10 collections by all the designers, an impressive guest list piled into the store and adjacent event space. Those in attendance were able to meet the new class—including the young and aspiring Christina Fan, Donaldo Smith, Jonnie Rettele, Leah Fagan, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, and Stephanie Kuhr—while also sipping cocktails, munching on finger foods, and mingling with fellow fashion admirers.
Two presented looks by Leah Fagan (left) and Stephanie Kuhr (right)
Each 2010 designer presented his or her work in a series of three-model installations. That is, three models were strategically propped on their own platform and were then cycled out to present three new looks. Guests circled the platforms like tigers circling their prey for an up-close and personal view of each look–looks that proved CFI has a nack for selecting talented designers. In addition to placing a lot of local fashion at shoppers’ manicured fingertips, this event marked the beginning of CFI’s many other events and trunk shows to be had during the shop’s month-long tenure (for a complete list, click here). As the pop-up shop introduces more locals and travelers to Chicago fashion, we look forward to watching CFI’s new class grow as visionaries, craftsmen and entrepreneurs who proudly hold the title “Chicago Designer.”
By Meghan Turner
Tags: CFI, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Christina Fan, Donaldo Smith, Jonnie Retelle, Lara Miller, Leah Fagan, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, Stephanie Kuhr, The 900 Shops
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Teal Earrings Give Neutrals a Pop of Color
Sunday, March 21st, 2010
Angela at the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s Launch event
Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Street Style
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Weekend Events and Sales in Chicago
Friday, March 19th, 2010
EVENTS
re:MAKE Fashion Show at Loyola University’s Mundelein Center Auditorium (1020 W Sheridan Road)
On Friday at 7pm, the re:MAKE Fashion Show will feature collections by local designers showing off their first-hand fashions created with second-hand materials.
Swap-O-Rama-Rama at Chicago Waldorf School (1300 W Loyola Avenue)
On Saturday (9am-5pm) and Sunday (1-5pm), bring a bag of unwanted clothing and a small donation to Swap-O-Rama-Rama, and you’ll be able to exchange your threads for items in the “swap pile.”
Laura Tanner Jewelry Trunk Show at Dame Couture (1927 Central Street in Evanston)
On Saturday from noon to 5pm, enjoy champagne and cookies at Dame Couture while perusing Laura Tanner’s bridal collections. Laura will also be on hand to help you with your selections.
Cynthia Ryba Trunk Show at The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue)
On Saturday from 12-6pm, Chicago designer Cynthia Ryba shows off her collection as a part of the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s month-long pop-up shop at The 900 Shops.
CFI’s 2010 New Designer Trunk Show at The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue)
Meet and shop the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s new class, including C/FAN, Donaldo Smith, Jonnie Rettele, Leah Fegan, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, and Stephanie Kuhr, this Saturday from 12-8pm.
Afternoon Tea and Dresses by Jess Audey at The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue)
View and shop Jess Audey’s Fall 2010 collection of dresses this Saturday from 12-2pm at CFI’s pop-up shop.
Veruca Salt Scarf Folding Class (1921 N Damen Avenue)
Want to learn more ways to wear your scarves? Head to Veruca Salt’s Bucktown location on Saturday from 1-2pm, and they’ll show you how.
SALES
Chicago Fashion Incubator Pop-up Store at The 900 Shops (900 N Michigan Avenue)
Starting this Saturday, CFI’s current designers and alumni will be selling their collections at this pop-up store on the fifth floor of The 900 Shops.
Maria Pinto Liquidation Sale (133 N Jefferson Street)
Maria Pinto’s five-day Liquidation Sale ends this Saturday, March 20. It’s your last chance to snag some of her incredible designs at 50-70% off. Plus, for these final two days of the sale, get an addition 25% off the sale price!
Fix’s Wheel of Fashion (1101 W Fulton Market)
Until March 30, swing by Fix for the opportunity to spin the wheel of fashion, which offers variety of discounts, including 15-20% off, free goodies, and gift cards.
GAVIN in Wonderland (1939 Central Street in Evanston)
Stop by GAVIN boutique this weekend and pick from a deck of cards for the chance to receive 10-20% off your purchase. One lucky girl will win a $250 gift certificate!
More upcoming Chicago fashion events and sales
Images courtesy of Laura Tanner
Tags: C/FAN, CFI, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Sales, Cynthia Ryba, Donaldo Smith, Fix Boutique, GAVIN, Jess Audey, Jonnie Rettele, Laura Tanner, Leah Fegan, Maria Pinto, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, Stephanie Kuhr, The 900 Shops
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