Posts Tagged ‘Chicago Fashion’
Exclusive Interview with Alexis Bittar
Tuesday, March 15th, 2011
If you’re an accessory aficionado, Alexis Bittar is on your radar. Each of his designs is a statement piece of individual splendor, and last week, we had the extraordinary honor of chatting with him at an exclusive Saks Fifth Avenue event. We walked in and amongst the runway seats and audience stood two tables–and later models–adorned with lavish bounty: Alexis Bittar’s Spring 2011 collections. We saw ocean-inspired necklaces, colorful leopard prints and bejeweled masterpieces, all designed to wow.
There were three collections for spring, each with their own personality: “Lucite,” “Elements” and “Miss Havisham.” The three all had their own texture, material preference and vibrancy that appeal to three style aesthetics. However, they all hold one thing in common: personality. These pieces are not for the feeble-minded. They’re for the fashionably brave who wish to use the industry for what it’s intended to do: impress and stand out.
Here’s what the jewelry master had to say:
SA: How is the Spring 2011 collection different from your others?
AB: Well, I designed three collections, so its is a medley. Each one of them has a distinct personality. I think in general there’s this kind of [motivation] to try new textures and metals, and overall, there was a fantasy.
SA: Do you have a favorite piece or set within the collections?
AB: Sophie’s choice! There’s a bunch in there. I love the pearl collar necklace. I love the woven turquoise collar, which is all hand-done. There’s a ‘80s graffiti print that’s also really amazing.
SA: Do you have a muse?
AB: It’s tricky because again I have three collections, so each one has a muse. I try to mix it up in terms of personality. I’m good friends with Iris Apfel. She’s more mature…almost 90, and they did a whole exhibit about her at the MET. She’s got such a great personality, and she’s a fashion icon. She has great individual taste. Also…Debbie Harry. I like people who have personality, who aren’t wallflowers. I feel like if you’re going to do fashion, then at least have fun.
SA: Why did you choose Lauren Hutton for the spring ad campaign?
AB: It’s funny because when I first started to design, I was selling jewelry on the streets of New York. I remember Lauren actually coming to my table when I was 19 years old. I feel like today Lauren resembles a mother of where fashion is going this season in terms of what Chloe and Celine are doing: This very clean, very ‘70s aesthetic. When you find a face that’s iconic and of substance, sometimes that comes with age. To have an iconic face, you have to be around for a while. There’s something in the maturity of her face. She’s a strong woman. She’s my date to the MET Ball!
SA: How do you feel like your designs have evolved since setting up a table on the streets of New York? Do you feel your work still holds the same personality it did then?
AB: Definitely! I’m fortunate I’ve got a team of 12 people on the design team, and 300 total. So, I’m able to design more and more frequently. I have the privilege that I can design what I’m inspired by. For example, for fall, I’m designing this pendent that says, “Reality TV Makes Me Sad.” It’s been 20 years, but I’m much more detail oriented now. I understand the consumer better. I feel like with the older I get, the better I understand what women want.
SA: Do you have any jewelry trends you are particularly excited about for spring?
AB: I like the clean metal pieces. Also, the trend toward this multi-ethnic, eclectic feeling. I feel like mixing that up is a strong look.
SA: Can you give us fall sneak peak?
AB: For fall, I worked again with Jason Wu to design his collection. We went into this baroque, Gothic, Tim Burton look, while still being very chic. We just showed it in Paris!
SA: You were really big into the New York party scene. What of that do you see in your work today?
AB: A lot. I was going to clubs when I was 13. I feel like the whole energy of it is to have fun, and a little bit of shock. You want to keep people on their feet. Fashion shouldn’t be boring.
We couldn’t agree more.
By Meghan Turner
Interview conducted by Meghan Turner and Maia McGinley
Images: Gold ring ($325); Turquoise and varasite collar ($495); Leopard bracelet ($375) courtesy of Alexis Bittar
Tags: Accessories, Alexis Bittar, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Show, Jewelry, Saks Fifth Avenue
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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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Gilt-Free Shopping Event
Thursday, February 24th, 2011
Shopping online via Gilt Groupe comes naturally nowadays, but the experience lacks the tangibility so many shoppers crave. For one day here in Chicago, though, that’ll change. On Saturday, March 5, the local edition of Gilt City is having a warehouse sale at The Ivy Room at Tree Studios (12 E Ohio Street) in the Gold Coast. From 10am to 6pm, swing by and shop the likes of Zac Posen, Chloe, Vera Wang, Tory Burch, Kate Spade and many more for up to 75% off. The luxury discounter will be selling tickets to the event starting today, February 24, at 12pm. The price is just $5 to attend–well worth the cost considering what you’ll save on designer duds.
To purchase tickets, click here.
By Meghan Turner
Tags: Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Evens, Chicago Shopping, Chloé, Gilt City, Gilt Groupe, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Vera Wang, Zac Posen
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Chicago Fashion Reality Show
Monday, February 21st, 2011
What aspiring fashion designer doesn’t love a little extra cash? Well, here’s a chance to get some: Kenmore Live Studio (678 N. Wells Street), an interactive event venue, is looking to cast the first season of its local reality show. “So You Wanna Be a Designer” will expose six contestants to top designers, stylists and photographers, teaching each one the ins and outs of the fashion business while they compete for a grand prize of $20,000 and a Kenmore Elite laundry pair. The venture will be hosted by Debbie Jagel, the designer behind the locally produced ootra, and broadcasted via Facebook.
To apply, visit facebook.com/kenmore and click “Be a Designer” on the left hand side of the page. The casting call goes until March 4. Invitations for contestants, which will take place in Chicago, will be issued in March.
By Meghan Turner
Tags: Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Debbie Jagel, Kenmore Live Studio, ootra
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Simply Fabulous: MCebrat Collar Necklace
Monday, February 21st, 2011
Chicago jewelry designer MCebrat‘s crystal-bead and leather collar necklace ($640) will amp up a basic tee, structured blazer or LDB.
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Designer, Chicago Fashion, MCebrat, Necklace
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Bell Bottom Revival
Wednesday, February 16th, 2011
In fashion, by looking to the past, we look to the future. This perpetual cycle allows us to resurrect trends we loved back when and hoped would someday return. One such trend is shaking up the way we wear denim: high-waisted bell bottom jeans.
Belly-button grazing trousers have been a favorite for seasons now, but the nostalgic bell cut is one that’s finally catching up. Its slimming, leg-lengthening fit not only flatters many a body types, it adds a fresh approach to American’s love affair with all things denim. A welcomed contrast to the omnipresent skinny jeans and jeggings, this revival embraces voluminous, angular fits that accent a woman’s curves in a way that’s sexy, relevant and hip.
This spring, bring the fashion institution back into your wardrobe. Check out our favorite high-waisted bell-bottom jeans below (from left to right):
1. 7 For All Mankind bell-bottoms ($198; piperlime.com)
2. Blank Denim bell bottoms ($75; singer22.com)
3. Gap wide-leg trouser jeans ($80; Gap)
4. J Brand 1277 “Bette in Wonderama” jeans ($218; J Brand)
5. Current/Elliott high rise flare jeans ($210; net-a-porter.com)
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of piperlime.com, singer22.com, Gap, J Brand and net-a-porter.com
Tags: Chicago Fashion, Gap, J Brand, Jeans, net-a-porter.com, piperlime.com, Singer22.com, Trends
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On Point
Tuesday, February 15th, 2011
I never thought I’d support a revival of the pointy-toe shoe, but after years of round shapes and months of clunky boots, this classic style couldn’t be more refreshing. Unlike most footwear trends that rotate out of the closet after a season or two, the right pair of pumps are an investment that will reemerge for decades. Why? They’re timeless, versatile and loved by woman of all ages.
Basically, pointy-toe pumps equip us shoe collectors with all the practical reasons to justify coming home with another box of Manolos. Pointy toes transition from season to season, and more importantly for modern ladies, from day to night. There’re an array of styles–from d’Orsay stilettos to unconventional straps to kitten heels–that suit every occasion and taste. Whether your style is classic, edgy, glam or preppy, and you’re headed to work, date or cocktail reception, you’ll delight in all the pointy styles available for spring.
Practicality aside, though, there’s another reason these shoes are a must have: attitude. Ladylike yet fierce, these heels have a way of saying, “I’m sweet and classy, but get the hell out of my way.” Ranging from conservative ‘50s styles to full-out mod, pointy toes can tone down or amp up a look with their leg-lengthening silhouette, eye-catching embellishments, austere cuts and slew of delicious colors.
Simply choose one (or two, or three…) of the hundreds styles and pair it with cocktail dresses, pencil skirts, tapered trousers, boyfriend jeans, miniskirts, et al. One can’t deny the resurgence of this timeless trend is one chic, fashionably versatile move that allows us to accent just about any outfit with pointy toes. This spring, I think you’ll all join me by saying, “Welcome back, pointy-toe pumps!”
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Schutz lavender suede pump ($214; shopbop.com). The chicest pump for spring. Understated enough for work, pretty enough for tea and fierce enough for drinks.
2. Kate Spade “Licorice” pump ($285; Shirise; 341 Park Avenue, Glencoe, IL). Basic, black and just plain sexy.
3. Valentino studded lace ankle wrap pump ($995; Neiman Marcus). Edgy and fearless. This shoe is not what you would expect from a comfortable and surprisingly versatile shoe.
4. Blue pointed pump ($90; Zara). There’s a reason Elvis wrote a song about blue suede shoes. Colorful, fun and a perfect pick-me-up to cure the winter doldrums.
5. Giuseppe Zanotti red patent leather “V” strap pump ($550; Saks Fifth Avenue). Va-va-voom! Femme fatale at its best.
6. Christian Louboutin “Pigalili 120 mm” ($3,545; Christian Louboutin). The power to stop ‘em dead in their tracks. Literally.
7. Messeca “Jesenia” pump ($110; Pump Shoes and Accessories; 1659 W Division Street). Add some swing to your swagger with these show-stoppers.
8. Topshop “Glitz Bow Point Court Shoe” ($125; Topshop). Conservative for the office, but fashion-forward for the weekend.
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Kate Spade, Neiman Marcus, Zara, Saks Fifth Avenue, Christian Louboutin, Pump Shoes and Accessories, and Topshop
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Heels, Kate Spade, Messeca, Neiman Marcus, Pump Shoes and Accessories, Saks Fifth Avenue, Schultz, Shoes, shopbop.com, Topshop, Trends, Valentino, Zara
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Last-Minute V-Day Shopping Ideas
Thursday, February 10th, 2011
Sweet Sale at SHE Boutique (483 Central Avenue, Highland Park)
This Valentine’s Day weekend, SHE Boutique will run its Sweet Sale! The tiered sale will offer merchandise up to 50% off. The rewards begin with $50 off your purchase of $250 or more, and they only go up from there.
Cynthia Rowley Sample Sale (810 W Armitage Avenue)
The Cynthia Rowley Sample Sale is back for another year! Stop by anytime between now and Sunday for a sale featuring one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories samples. Plus, fall merchandise will be up to 80% off.
Robin Richman’s Valentine Sale (2108 N Damen Avenue)
This weekend, Robin Richman will have a special Valentine’s Day Sale. All jewelry will be 15% off – a perfect gift for that special someone!
Veruca Salt Promotion (521 N Kingsbury Street; 1921 N Damen Avenue)
Now through Monday, stop by either of Veruca Salt’s locations for an amazing promotion! Customers will get a free $25 gift card to Veruca Salt with the purchase of a gift card of $100 or more.
Nika’s Annual Valentine’s Day Sale (143 N Northwest Highway, Park Ridge)
Stop by Nika’s in Park Ridge this weekend for a great Valentine’s Day sale & shopping experience! Customers can save up to 85% the entire store and receive a gift with purchase. Plus enjoy sweets, drinks, and a chocolate bar all while receiving complimentary hand massages.
Luxury Garage Sale at Galleria Unico (1936 W Division Street, 2nd Floor)
Stop by the Luxury Garage Sale this Saturday and Sunday between 10:30am to 5:30pm to shop their inventory of new and gently used designer, contemporary & vintage clothing, accessories and shoes. 10% of proceeds will be donated to Dress for Success.
Chicago Looks Photo Collection at Heaven Gallery (1550 N Milwaukee Avenue, 2nd Floor)
Now through 3/7, street-style documenter Isa Giallorenzo, who runs the fashion blog Chicago Looks, shows a selection of her best Windy City shots portraying some of the city’s most stylish inhabitants.
Image courtesy of Veruca Salt
Tags: Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Looks, Chicago Shopping, Chicago Street Style, Cynthia Rowley, Luxury Garage Sale, Nika's, Robin Richman, She Boutique, Veruca Salt
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Isaac Mizrahi to Set Up Shop
Monday, February 7th, 2011
Chicago’s Rush Street is poised to get another boutique amid its array of luxury shopping destinations. Isaac Mizrahi is the latest designer rumored set up shop in the Gold Coast, according to the Chicago Tribune. This would be the first store outside Manhattan for the celeb designer commonly known for his namesake fashion line, status as Creative Director of Liz Claiborne, affordable line at Target and his eccentric personality displayed on Bravo’s “The Fashion Show.” He’s said to be in negotiations to convert Gap’s high-end denim store, 1969 (939 N Rush Street), which didn’t renew its lease last month.
This is a move other labels, including Vince and Marc Jacobs, have recently made, so could this spot be the new home for Isaac’s work? With a 25-year-old career on the upswing after fashion triumphs and tribulations, there’s no question he has the wherewithal to excel in here in the Windy City. And we’ll welcome him with open arms.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of Isaac Mizrahi
Tags: Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Isaac Mizrahi
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A Luxury Garage Sale
Sunday, January 30th, 2011
We all know the feeling: we open our overflowing closet and realize it desperately needs editing. Whether you don’t have the time or the know-how, there’s a darling duo here to help. Best friends Lindsay Segal and Brielle Buchberg of Luxury Garage Sale, combine their skills in sales and styling to offer Chicagoans a streamlined wardrobe, all while making you some extra spending money.
To do this, they come to your home to sift through your designer duds and pull out what’s sellable (with your approval, of course). They then price, photograph and sell the items–for free. After the clothing and accessories are sold via eBay, antique markets and more, Lindsey and Brielle ship the merchandise and collect a 35% commission.
Next weekend, see what the ladies have to offer–including labels from Christian Louboutin and Chanel to Marc by Marc Jacobs and Theory–their two-day shopping event. Held Feb. 12-13 from 10:30am to 5:30pm at Galleria Unico (1936 W Division Street, 2nd Floor), 10% of the sale’s proceeds go to Dress for Success.
With Luxury Garage Sale, you’ll never dread spring cleaning again.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of Luxury Garage Sale
Tags: Brielle Buchberg, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Lindsay Segal, Luxury Garage Sale
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